Book Exchange

My little lovey

Well, the Lord has been throwing many challenges the Talamantez family's way as of late. A re cap....Gia's one year check up.....10 ounces in 3 months. Back to the specialists to see what is wrong. Seven specialist in one week. Three surgeries perscribed (which are all happening on Friday, because Mommy's win when they fight NOT to have little lovey's put under more than once) back on the CF train (sweat test, which I CAN NOT schedule....only the good Lord knows why) a severe rash over her entire body from the Measles vaccine and on a much lighter note, the holiday book exchange with all of our friends.

Needless to say, Christmas shopping is not complete....luckily Corina and I are giving the family a Chrismas party this year as opposed to gifts. So much of the shopping stress was not present.

Just trying to make it through. If you have a moment, please lift up a few prayers for my little one this Christmas. A few for her mom and dad too would be appreciated, but for her most of all.

Merry Christmas to all and may you be blessed with a healthy, happy, wonderful new year!

Thank you!

Give thanks, give thanks, give thanks!

I can not explain to you how much I have to give thanks for this year. Tears well in my eyes as I let my mind wander back to our first Thanksgiving with Gia. In the hospital, having just completed a platelet transfusion. Doctors wondering if she would make it and what on earth was wrong.

Fast forward one year…..the most vibrant, petite, adorable little girl on the planet. That sings and claps and makes funny noises. Thanksgiving was spent with my adorable husband, loving parents and of course, God’s most precious girl, Gia.

The bird was amazing. Simply decadent. The dressing was just spicy enough, cream peas just right. This year we added roasted corn and mashed potatoes. I am beginning to understand that these are “traditional” Thanksgiving favorites. Growing up in the Zansler family however, they NEVER graced our table. They were a wonderful complement to our menu and really helped fuse the uniting of two families.

Having my parents here for nearly two weeks was such a God-send. I was able to rest more, have a cleaner home, and meals that are much better than I could have ever cooked….all thanks to them. Gia’s birthday party would not have been possible with out Meezer’s help and the Thanksgiving bird would never have been so plump and decadent.

The best part of the whole thing was that Ralph and I were able to get away for an overnight stay. Just in our backyard, but an evening at a hotel and dinner together (ALONE) was just what the marriage doctor ordered. We returned from our overnight jaunt refreshed and full of enthusiasm for our marriage.

Things I am Thankful for:
· The most amazing brown eyed girl that I am the luckiest to be her mommy.
· A fabulous, impeccably dressed, ambitious, loving husband.
· A mother to help guide and cry with me throughout my journey of life.
· A father that has instilled the ability to negotiate and stand tall and proud in my beliefs.
· Turkey, dressing and creamed peas.
· Advent.
· Papa’s orange peels and cinnamon sticks brewing on the stove leaving the house with the most delicious aroma.
· All of the good things that God has bestowed on me.
· My ever evolving education.
· Much, much, more!

Gobble, Gobble!

A year ago today.....

A year ago today, forever changed my life. The fear, anxiety and pain that was involved melted away at 3:49am when you joined me here. All of those feelings were replaced with a warm comforting, intoxicating love that I never imagined I was capable of.

Eleven months ago today, forever changed my life. The sore nipples, aching shoulders and living in a hotel are secondary to the joy I get when you say, “AAAHHH” after you sneeze. I sit for hours and just hold you. No one is as lucky as me.

Ten months ago today, forever changed my life. Moving and unpacking boxes were never quite as fun as doing it with you. When tired and frustrated, sitting down with my girl brings everything back into perspective.

Nine months ago today, forever changed my life. You began to gain independence and rolled over once or twice. I felt a sense of loss as my little darling needed me less, but smiles started to come and they are the best.

Eight months ago today, forever changed my life. We met some new friends. You certainly are the smallest most delicate little one of the group. I really love that you my so lovey are so cuddly.

Seven months ago today, forever changed my life. We went to Avila beach as a family and just enjoyed you. You are the life of the party. The face you make when the sand touches your toes makes me smile.

Six months ago today, forever changed my life. You have decided that a swing is not any fun for you and you break free. You play with Hello bee, and you love to be free.

Five months ago today, forever changed my life. You swim and dunk and love the sun. You are the thinnest of all the girls.

Four months ago today, forever changed my life. I went back to work. And cried the entire way. In the future, I will be the one to comfort you, but now you are the one that comforts me. Your hugs and kisses are the best.

Three months ago today, forever changed my life. You are all over the place. Crawling like a mad lady and getting into things. I crawl around with you and just want a sliver of your enthusiasm and zest for life.

Two months ago today, forever changed my life. We really thought that something was wrong. My heart sinks thinking that you would have to ever suffer. You had an x ray, blood drawn, and many pokes and prod and you smile never left your face.

A month ago today, forever changed my life. You stand and clap. You sing and laugh. It is the most entertaining show in the world.

Today, forever changed my life. Everyday with you makes me strive to be a better person. I had no idea how I was going to do things once you made your debut, now, I have no idea how I survived with out you.
Happy birthday Gia!!!!

The Best Gift

A year ago today, forever changed my life. A year ago today, I felt happiness like never before. The moment they laid you in my arms I instantly fell in love. When I hold you tight, I relive that moment. It has now become a movie that I play over and over in my mind. The way you nuzzled so gently and grasped my finger so tight. The way your daddy looked at me and was so proud of you.

Your foot was the length of my thumb. Your fingers so thin and delicate. Your cheeks so plush, your eyes so eager. Who knew what you would be capable of!

Never in my life have I been so aware that I was right. I knew you weren’t as laid back as all of the nurses wanted me to believe. The moment they whisked you to the NICU my stomach hit the floor. The heat welled in my face and the lump from my throat was in my mouth. I wish that I had been stronger for you, but thankfully daddy was their to be the pillar of our family.

You were connected to so many wires and had so many procedures that it was difficult to hold you. But that couldn’t stop me. The nurses had to force me away so you could get your rest. And even then, the nurses had a special connection with you.

The light in your eyes and your sweet disposition were evident from the moment you arrived. To this day, everyone talks about how sweet you are and what a good baby you are. These are things that I know.

I don’t know what I did to be so lucky to be your mom. But I thank God everyday that I get to be a part of your life. Your eyes are a pathway to grace. You will never understand how much I love you and how full you have made my life. You will just have to take my word for it.
Gia, you are the light of my life. Here’s to you lovey. This day will be full of unlimited climbs on the dishwasher, clapping, crawling around with your shoes…..may your day be filled with everything you love and know, that November 18 is the day that God gave me the best gift…..YOU!

Milestones

Days that go by make you wonder….will her smile ever be so sweet? How long will that dancing eye be part of her minute by minute amazement? I find that many other parents anticipate future milestones. When will she know what the animals are at the zoo? When will she be able to walk? Say a word and really know what she’s saying?

The funny thing is that when Gia graduates from a stage (laying there like a burrito, toppling over while trying to sit, pulling and pulling but not being able to get her legs underneath her) a sense of loss comes over me. Nothing that doesn’t go away after seeing the next step, but at every phase I wonder how she could possibly be any more amazing.

So here’s to the only Halloween we will have without running behind you, the only pumpkin patch where you stay clean and here’s to every other memory we will make over the years. I love you my darling. You are a beacon of light in a very dark world. You bring me more happiness than I ever thought was possible. I love you.

Mommy~

Blessings in disguise....

As I have gone back to work, I have become a morning person. Not by choice, but out of desire. The burning desire I have to spend the afternoon with my little darling. So, the earlier I get to the office the earlier I get home. I tend to leave the house around 5:30am. For those of you that have known me for sometime, I am NOT a morning person. I repeat NOT A MORNING PERSON.

This morning Ralph is in Saint Louis on business. This leaves Gia and I together (lucky me ;). My alarm must have been set incorrectly, but Gia had a serious bout of gas…..at 5:00am. What are the chances!

So here’s to little blessings in disguise. As much as I would have loved to sleep in, I love my afternoons with my girl. Due to some gas, I am out of the house on time and will be home to take a walk and cozy up with my girl tonight!

Take time to count your blessings….

I forgot my wallet today. I feel very silly. I went to order Miss Kate’s birthday present and Miss G’s diaper rash cream online only to discover that my wallet is not in my purse. I am hoping that it fell out of my purse and is on the floor board of my car, but that is certainly not the way luck usually has it for me.

It has been quite a long time since I have lost blogged and I really wish that I had more inspiration to guide me today. Unfortunately, I am pretty tired and my throat is a bit scratchy. A few exciting things, Gia has a nubby little tooth. She walks around chewing on anything and everything she can get her mouth on. It melts my heart. Everything she does melts my heart. I adore her. Ralph went to the Raider game yesterday and we were lucky enough to have a girls day. When in the Baby Bjorn she reaches back to hug me. She is the best!

I will blog later with something more interesting. Have a great Monday!

PINXAV

Gia's diaper rash is not completely gone, but it is "considerably better"....thanks so much to this wonderful, amazing, product PINXAV (pronounced Pink Salve) that I was introduced to by a wonderful lady named McCall. (I would love to link you to her darling's blog, but I am not that savvy). But this stuff is a miracle worker. In one night it has cleared a rash that I have done absolutely EVERYTHING for!

Pediatrician stumped, Endocrinologist stumped, Gastroenterologist stumped....another mom....saves the day! For this, I send out a hearty thank you!

A side note, I did some research and apparently this diaper miracle also can work wonders for mommy's' skin everywhere! Do some googling and let me know if your not sold.....I will personally send you some!

Boo-boo's

I am not sure why, but from the minute Gia was born, Ralph began to call her Boo-boo. Oddly enough, this is the same term of endearment that my parents bestowed upon me when I was just a wee little one. This is a term that we use often and just fits our little darling. Unfortunately, my little Boo Boo has a boo boo.

For the past two months, Gia has had a very, very ANGRY diaper rash. Much to everyone's dismay, we can not make it heal. Four perscription diaper rash creams, sleeping naked for nights at a time, hair dryer galore after each diaper change. Nothing. It is still there as angry as ever. To make matters worse, it just causes her so much pain. Said differenlty, causes me much pain. It is true what they say, "It hurts me more than it hurts you".

To see this litlle perfect girl in so much pain breaks my heart. It literally makes me cry. I just want so badly to make her feel better. So, for all the mom's out there...do you have any suggestions? Old wives tails?

Just so you know, we've tried every diaper on the market (Pedi recoomends no fragrance, no bleach so nix Pampers, Huggies and Luvs), every diaper rash cream, every sitz bath that I am aware of. So PLEASE, PLEASE....I am calling all mom troopers. Ask your friends...any crazy remedies I am willing to try!

Thanks,
Gia's sad mommy that wants to make her feel better

Basking in the Glow of a Green Light

Lately, I can’t help but drool when I sleep. I am so dang tired that the moment my head hits the pillow I zonk out. Much to my husbands dismay. Now that I am a working mother, I have such admiration for the many mothers (mine included) that have done this year in and year out.

There is now a monitor that resides on my night stand. It has a green light that denotes (complete assumption here) that everything is in working order with the electronic wiring. There is really nothing wrong with this except for the fact that I like to sleep in complete and total darkness. Like a cave. Cold and pitch black. This green light is like a beacon in the night. It seems that every time I roll over or fluff a pillow that dern green light is blaring in my face. Startling me from my peaceful slumber (to add fuel to the flame, there is a little girl that tends to do this as well….but she is much sweeter and too fabulous to be as frustrating as this light). Waking me from my very limited sleep. Denying me of my beauty rest.

As I am trudging through life on limited re fueling I began to wonder….”How many things do we have blaring in our lives that we can’t turn off?” Which ones are the precious darling little ones that are startling you from your life for something worthy. Something necessary that needs attention and what is like the green light. What is bothering you, disturbing you, bothering you that can so simply be eliminated? What can just be turned off so that you can still answer the necessary calls but no longer be aggravated by the green glow.

Tonight I am turning off the green light in my room and in my head. There are too many real things that I lose sleep over to let the green light thoughts fill my brain and add to my frustration. Let’s make today…TURN OFF THE GREEN LIGHT DAY!!!!

Holly Ascraft

Holly Ashcraft, a 22 year old suspended USC student received a reduced charge of manslaughter today after her defense attorney Mark Geragos (the man with high morals Michael Jackson, Scott Peterson’s attorney) claimed that the baby was stillborn when she placed him in the dumpster therefore it is not murder because there was no intent.

A little background…..this is the SECOND time this murderer has claimed to have a still birth. The first time the authorities where unable to find the babies body. Yes, you read that correctly.

As I have read and researched this story, my blood begins to boil. I am mortified that our society places such little importance on human life. I am not making excuses for Michael Vic and his dog fighting escapades, but he is receiving more media scrutiny than a baby killer. Not only a one time baby killer, but TWICE.

What is wrong with the world today? I am disgusted and mortified.

Go Tell Aunt Nancy

Go tell Aunt Nancy, go tell Aunt Nancy

Go tell Aunt Nancy the old gray goose is dead

It's the one she's been saving, the one she's been saving

The one she's been saving to make a feather bed

Now yes, I am well aware this is a very morbid song. But for some odd reason this is the lullaby that my grandfather used to sing to me.

As many of you know, I have always loved the stage. Especially musicals. And now every night Gia’s room morphs into my performing arena. Really more of an acoustic showing from about 9-9:30. An exclusive Unplugged performance for Miss G. I sing anything and everything from Christmas carols, the made up songs my mother used to sing to me, old southern folk tunes, Broadway musical scores and of course….Go Tell Aunt Nancy.

Last night was no different than any other. Gia was drifting to dream land and I was the fortunate party to be holding her tight. I began to sing Go Tell Aunt Nancy and suddenly my mind wandered to laying on the front room of my grandparents house and my grandpa singing me to sleep.

So many of you never met this wonderful man; including my daughter or husband. But some of you were lucky enough to have a moment at Grandparent’s day or while they were visiting Houston. My grandpa would sing just about anything and for any occasion. I really think that is where my love of song comes from. He sang so much that my dad spoke about it in depth during his eulogy. It is one of the things I remember so fondly on.

In Gia’s room last night my mind took me back. Like a black and white movie of days gone by. So vivid, so real that I really thought I was there. Back to the days when I was a blonde little girl with missing teeth. A little girl that didn’t have a care in the world and wanted nothing more than cowboy toast and a milkshake made by my grandpa. Eating watermelon on the levy. Going through Aunt Daisy and Gretch’s junk at the house on the Avenue. Eating fried chicken that I never liked. All from one song.

So as much as my husband or other moms mock my awful singing I won’t stop. One day after I am gone Gia will be brought back to that place. Me singing to her with all of my might and all of my heart. She won’t remember that it was off key or realize how horrendous the lyrics were until much later in life. And at that point it won’t matter. She will know that it was all done out of love and devotion for her. In the words of Stephen C. “I’m making memories here. I’m making memories.”

NO MORE BRATZ

I know that many of you are on board with my crusade to raise young, thinking, smart women. Women that are aware that dressing provocatively or pining to be a Lindsay Lohan or Brittney Spears does not make a happy adult. These role models are not what I want for my little girl. Please join me in making this point to people like Richard Robinson that chose to promote through a traditionally educational format the Bratz to our young ladies and their future wives (for those of you that have dashing young boys ;)!
Thanks!
azt


Tell Scholastic: Stop Selling Bratz in Schools
The Bratz, a line of highly sexualized dolls for girls as young as four are, being marketed directly to children in schools by Scholastic, Inc. Scholastic promotes Bratz through its book fairs and book clubs, selling titles such as Lil' Bratz Dancin Divas; Lil' Bratz Catwalk Cuties; and Lil' Bratz Beauty Sleepover Bash to a captive audience of young students.
The Bratz—whose wardrobes include miniskirts, fishnet stockings, and bikinis—were recently singled out the by American Psychological Association for contributing to the sexualization of young girls. Please tell Richard Robinson, President and CEO of Scholastic Inc., that commercially-driven, sexualized stereotypes have no place in schools

Letting Go

Part of why I am so good at my job is because I can’t let go. I can’t let it go that someone doesn’t call me back. I can’t let it go if someone doesn’t buy with me and buys with someone else. I can’t let it go when someone says they are going to buy with me and then disappears off the face of the earth.

Conversely, this trait that makes successful in all that I do from a work standpoint can creep into my personal life and wreak havoc. I know there are certain things that I need to let go of. I know there are certain issues that I need to say, “Cest la vi” and move on. But I can’t. I try. Then it just eats away at me until I want to explode.

I know that I am sabotaging myself in the long run. It’s not about being right. I think that is where the miscommunication comes into play. It is about being understood. Having empathy for my outlook. My feelings. My desires. Understanding that I am aware of my faults. I recognize them. I want to make them better. But unlearning a behavior in one capacity of your life that is so vital to excelling in another is a contradiction in some ways.

The ultimate problem is when I do let go, I let go completely. My Maitron of Honor included this in her speech at my wedding. I am as loyal and honest as they come, but if I hit the wall I walk away and never turn back to see what happened. I will fight and fight until I can't even look back on that client, enemy from high school, boss that made me crazy. I will fight until I am so exhausted I would rather have nothing than find a solution. This is not a healthy behaivor either.

There are days that I yearn to not be this way. Days that I wish I could be lackadaisical and not have a care in the world. But then, I wouldn’t be me.

Where do you find the balance? The balance of grasping the person I have been my entire life. The good components of not wanting to let go and release the grip that not letting go has in a negative way? If someone has the answer, please let me know.

20 things about my love

Because of you I am strong and determined to reach my potential.
Because of you I strive to be a role model for all.
Because of you I yearn for innocence.
Because of you sitting around my backyard on a Saturday evening is a wild night that requires a camera.
Because of you I want to slow time down.
Because of you I am proud of the extra pounds I carry.
Because of you I am learning patience with your daddy.
Because of you I am closer to my own mother.
Because of you scrunching faces make me laugh so hard my side hurts.
Because of you I KNOW MTV, VH1, HBO and many, many other TV stations ROT YOUR BRAIN.
Because of you I am a nazi about food.
Because of you I am focused and diligent in my work.
Because of you I have met some of the most amazing women in the world.
Because of you I worry about things outside of my control.
Because of you I don’t sweat the small stuff.
Because of you cooking dinner and cleaning house are things that I enjoy.
Because of you a talking puppy provides hours of entertainment for us both.
Because of you we have a futon on our back patio.
Because of you I sing about anything and everything.
Because of you I truly know love.

You are the light of my life and my reason for living. I am proud to be your mom and am so blessed to be the one to watch you grow. I adore you my little tea cup. Please know there is nothing I wouldn’t do for you. I love you GG!

Mexican Food

Mexican food. An all time favorite of mine. But the very basis of this amazing cuisine are very economical ingredients. So, this Texas gal has a hard time wrapping her head around a sixty dollar bill for four people.

Now, for gourmet, my inner foodie can justify the spend. But, for run of the mill, cheesy globs I have a hard time.

To top it off, there weren’t even margarita’s to wash it down!

Oh well!

Syncronated Clock

We are so busy. As a society we rush to do everything. We want everything faster, quicker and more efficient. But what happens when we slow down?

When we slow down, we make fewer mistakes.
When we slow down, we don’t get speeding tickets.
When we slow down, we savor the flavors of a full salad.
When we slow down, we can see the things we love.
When we slow down, the little things mean so much.
When we slow down, we laugh more and cry less.
When we slow down, we focus more intently.
When we slow down , we live more fully.

Our parents and grandparents grew up in a slower time. To type something, they had to be meticulous about the keystrokes, or it would add to the time of completion. To make a phone call they could not be on the go. They ate dinner at a table. Together. Without television to tune out each other. They spent lazy summer days on the front porch watching the clouds.

While I am not suggesting that we abandon our cell phones, blackberries and other convinces of modern technology, I AM suggesting that we slow down and enjoy each other.

Leisurely read a book to your daughter. Delight in the flavor of a great piece of fish. Relish your husbands kiss. Who knows, slowing down could in fact be the key to happiness.

Love,
Allison and Gia

Sizzlin' Milestones

Fresno. Now a medium sized metropolis, once a sleepy ag town. As a family we make frequent trips to Fresno. Some are for major events, our wedding, Gia’s Baptism, dinner with Monsignor and some are just for a family visit. This weekend was a milestone weekend without a doubt.

Now that the matriarch of the Talamatnez family (that’s me) is working, weekends MUST include things such as scrubbing the bathrooms, huge loads of laundry and cleaning floors that the darling little one crawls around on….yes, she is a prodigy in case you were wondering ;). So after the house cleaning of the morning, The Talamantez family traveled to the great, the wonderful Nordstrom. There is something to be said for such an elegant store. Growing up in Texas, Niemen Marcus is and always will be the crème de la crème. But I must admit, Nordies does it well. The baby grand serenade as you browse wonderful pieces of art that some refer to as clothing. Ralph got an amazing shirt and another great shirt.

Then on to JCrew. The ultimate in this preppy girls style. The way their clothes feel broken in against your skin. In summer, the style just SCREAMS east coast beach. In the fall the sweaters that yearn to be worn at a collegiate football battle. I just LOVE JCrew. Then to Target, this gals FAVORITE store, cute clothes, diapers, and everything anyone could NEED or WANT. Just a little love for those in the marketing department over at Target.

2:45 Depart Greater Los Angeles. 6:00 arrive Fresno. Chat with the in laws. Smell the warm chocolate cupcake air as it filled my in laws home. Run to my grand in laws to get dressed. Dress for the social event of the season in Fresno.

Arrive at Summer Sizzle. I think this is the first year that I have been that it has not been so excruciatingly hot that you truly are sizzling. Drinks with those we love. Ronnie and Trish. Rob and Jennie. Tony and Lisa. Billy (Erica, I hope your weekend in Vegas was a BLAST). Tony and Corina. Such a nice time and what fun. The only regret of the night was the 2am McDonald’s run. Why oh why do I subject myself to this guilty pleasure? So guilty, that much of the pleasure is taken away.

Sunday was spent celebrating 80 years with an amazing man. He has influenced my wonderful husband in a way that I can not thank him enough. Thanks Papa for all that you have done and your party was a great joy!Love,
Allison and Gia

Ankles and Joy

When I got my little darling in my arms yesterday after a long day away from each other I just admired her. Everything about her. I thought that I had examined every part of this incredible being with a fine tooth comb, until yesterday.

I really examined her ankles for the first time. Milky white, a little bump and the MOST ADORABLE wrinkles you have EVER seen. It brings tears just thinking about what glorious ankles she has.

So why pray-tell (is this a real word? And if so, how do you spell it?) am I sharing my obsession with my daughters ankles with the rest of you? Because it made me realize what an amazing thing our parents have done for each of us. While no one is perfect, there are two people out there that do (or should) love you completely and think that YOU are the MOST amazing person EVER. And even if you were not blessed with amazing parents like I was, we all have the good Lord above that loves us and made us in his image.

It made me feel so warm inside to think of how I look at Gia with such delight and amazement. How much happiness she brings and how much she fills me up and to know that I have done the same for my parents. That at one point in time, my ankles brought them the best moment of their day. And a great day at that!

So take peace in knowing how special you are and that you are perfect to someone!

Love,

Allison

New Chapters

Like moving to a new city in the middle of High School or going to college and not knowing a soul, starting work post partum is an anxiety causing situation. Nights laying awake. Heart pumping. Cold sweat on brow. Getting up and letting my tears fall into Gia's crib.












I have been in the fortunate position of always loving to work. Prior to Gia, some would say that it was what defined me. So when Ralph and I decided that me going back to work would make us a happier family, I was completely on board.

Find job. Do I start anew? Do I brave Los Angeles traffic and do what I love and where I thrive? Love and thrive. Two words, that when you find yourself completing them you should stick with whatever it is that evokes those adjetives. Luckily, I some great people at Clear Channel gave me a job.


Find babysitter. FOUND! A dear friend of mine, whom I admire and respect has agreed to watch Gia. I am so lucky because our child rearing views are so similar and she is an amazing soul. While I have no concerns about how Gia is being taken care of, it is I that I worry about. I miss her tremendously. Her smile. The way her eyes dance and her feet shuffle. That little army crawl. All of those things.

I had a fantastic first day. It was wonderful to return to the rat race so to speak, but the milk expression in the bathroom (I forgot my pump), the moments of heart ache when I was really missing Gia and the lack of caffeine really gave this day like no other first day of work I have ever had.


I am enjoying it, but it is certainly an adjustment. Kind of like the Da Vinci Code. It is taking me a few chapters to get into this book so please keep me in your thoughts that the time away from Gia gets easier and our time together is more precious!

Just take a moment and admire this face....

Pole Dancing

Well, today I hit a light pole and knocked it down. I had just purchased a chest of drawers and it was in my "trunk". This forced me to place Gia's stroller, and other normal trunk belongings in the back seat with her.

She wails. Not an, "I need some attention mom!" wail, but a "Something is desperately hurting me!" wail. SO, I whip my head (and apparently my arms) around to check on the light of my life. She's fine.

The remainder is some what of a blur. I remember going up on the curb and thinking...Ralph is going to kill me if I scrape these stupid rims. And then I thought that I was braking. Pushing as hard as I could and I wasn't stopping.

I look down. Examine foot position. Find break. Screech to a hault.

There is a woman behind me screaming obscenities. I think...oh, LA road rage. Nope, the light pole I hit, hit her car. Had she been two seconds ahead of where she was, she would have been killed or seriously injured. Thank you Lord for your sweet timing.

Jump out, grab my SCREAMING BLOODY MURDER lovey. Hug her. Break down crying. The woman behind me is ok. Thank you, God. Thank you so much. Praise Your name.

Come home. Too emotional to blog about the rest of my day.

So glad that all involved are safe and healthy.

Thank God for your health and family tonight.

Sixty Years Young

Today my meezer (mother) turns sixty. Lord, please bless me so that I am as amazing as she is at sixty. It amazes me that she is what at one point in my life what I wold consider "old". Yet, this sixty year young woman is my very dearest female friend and inspiration.

At sixty years young, she can dress like a twenty year old. Well, at least a classy, cute twenty year old. Not a hoochie mama.

At sixty years young, she has two amazing granddaughters that look at her with the same awe that I looked at her with when I was young.

At sixty years young, she recently was promoted and is living her dream of being a career woman.

At sixty years young, she is computer savvy.

At sixty years young, she holds the wisdom of someone sixty years old with the the fresh outlook of a child.

Meez, I love you and I am so glad that I could celebrate this day with you!

Love,
Allison and Gia

The Joy of Waiting

As I have been here in LAX since 4:20 this morning and it is now 11:26am, I realize there are some benefits to being stuck in the monstrosity of an airport. First of all, I am going back to work on the twelfth of July. This means long hours away from my darling. So, what does being stuck in the airport mean? Numerous games of "Hickory Dickory Dock", the "Noble Duke of York" and patty cake.



Furthermore, it gives me the best excuse ever to sit and hold her for extended periods of time. I mean what "good mother" would allow their precious baby to be anywhere but in their loving arms during such a trying time. Where else would one get to admire her cupid bow lips and long eye lashes to every last detail?



The thing that I have realized during this time waiting is that we spend so much time rushing and allowing negative thoughts enter our heads. So many others are around angry with furrowed brows bombarding the gate agents with their nastiness when they could be enjoying something...for many nothing as precious as my little girl, but something...a good book...surfing the web, or just the thrill of their own thoughts.



So let us all take a moment and enjoy one of the many things that we take for granted. When I arrive in Houston, I am going to be sure to enjoy the humid blanket that will hit me the moment that I step off the plane....a free facial is my new outlook; not the awful late June weather that I thought of so many times in years past.



Have a great day!

Love,

Allison and Gia

Because of you I walk the line

Walking. Walking. Walking. This is Gia and I's new thing. Similar to my days in San Francisco, we are walking everywhere now. To the grocery store. For exercise. Around the block in hopes that it will soothe my fussy darling.

While this may seem far from proliphic to most, I am finding it to be a very spiritual journey. G gets strapped in the jogging stroller with her toy and I strap on the MP3 player (not an I Pod because really MUST I give in to Apple's amazing advertising campaign? No, I think not.) and away we go.

Originally, the goal was to lose my remaining "baby weight". What it has turned into is a revitalization of my soul. How I have forgotten the many foggy mornings walking from the Embarcadaro to the Financial District. How refreshing it is for your soul. Take a deep breath in. Smell the salty water of the bay. And think, "My, how blessed am I?"

The point is that I am realizing more and more what an amazing life I lead. How fortunate I am. This little lady that lights up my life. She smiles from ear to ear and tears well in my eyes, because I know how fast she will grow. My husband calls from work, and he truly is the man that I have always dreamed of, but is ever so more than I could even imagine. Yet, it takes me walking around our little neighborhood (mind you, I was adimatlly AGAINST this one, and now I would not want to live anywhere else) and thinking to myself.....my life is wonderful.

So, because of you I walk the line. Thank you for blessing me with such an amazing life. Wonderful parents that have proven to be the best leaders for the path unto which my life has followed. A partner that understands and appreciates who I am, faults and all. And certainly not last, the lovely lady....asleep and I can ONLY pray that you will let her stay that way ALL NIGHT LONG!

I will do everything I can to be the best at all that you ask of me. I love you all and am so thankful for each of you.

Gummy Smiles and Drooly Kisses,
Allison and Gia

Because I am your mommmy....

Because I am your mommy, sitting in a rocking chair is the highlight of my day.

Because I am your mommy, I am learning to be patient with your daddy.

Because I am your mommy, I want brown hair that is just like yours.

Because I am your mommy, Gymboree and Baby Gap are my favorite places to shop.

Because I am your mommy, rising at 4am is a treat.

Because I am your mommy, drool is something I enjoy.

Because I am your mommy, I would walk through fire, create a scrap book, file a million folders, fend off a swap of snakes and eat a plate of green bell peppers if that is what I had to do to be with you.

Because I am your mommy, gummy smiles are the best kind.

Because I am your mommy, I love the way a porpoise sounds.

Because I am your mommy, changing your diaper is the perfect opportunity to give that cutie booty a love pat.

Because I am your mommy, I sing "Away in a Manger" everyday.

Because I am your mommy, I know what is truly important in life.

Because I am your mommy, I strive to be a better person.

Because I am your mommy, I want to be closer to God.

Because I am your mommy, I am complete.

I love you baby girl. Thank you for the best mother's day present ever....the opportunity to be your mom!

Because you are my meezer....

Because you are my meezer, I know how to give the greatest love pats.


Because you are my meezer, I know that a word is just a word and the meaning behind it is what is most important.


Because you are my meezer, I thank God everyday for my little girl and know that children truly are the loves of our lives.




Because you are my meezer, I cackle and seek out every opportunity to do so.


Because you are my meezer, I have a work ethic that is strong and fierce.


Because you are my meezer, I look up to you and I am proud to be your daughter.

Because you are my meezer, I know how it feels to be loved unconditionally and how to love unconditionally.

Because you are my meezer, I understand the difference between obnoxious and borderline obnoxious.


Because you are my meezer, I am a great wife and mother.


Because you are my meezer, I know how to be a friend.


Because you are my meezer, I do the right thing even though it may not always be the easiest thing to do.

Because you are my meezer, I may be tone deaf but sing with all my heart because it makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside.

Because you are my meezer, one drink makes me say "Hello? Hello? Yes, we would LOVE to have Santa Claus come and stay with us!"

Because you are my meezer, I have wavy hair, really crazy wavy hair that looks different every morning.

Because you are my meezer, I can find a piece of furniture in the garbage and turn it into a Pottery Barn look a like.

Because you are my meezer, going to your house is the greatest vacation of all.


Thank you for being the greatest mother on earth. I cherish you with every fiber of my being and pray to the good Lord above that he will find in me all that you have taught so I can pass those lessons and joys on to Gia.

I love you Meez.

Like dating all over again....

So Gia and I went to her Patty Cake and Peek a boo class yesterday. We met this AWESOME mom and baby. We exchanged numbers and now, it's just like dating all over again. How long do you wait to call? I don't want to seem to eager, but I don't want to seem too nonchalant.

It's just that this mom seems like she and I would have been friends pre baby, not just because of baby. That's something I miss. I mean my mom friends are great. I chose to surround myself with gals that have like minded philosophies on child rearing, but I need one of those to be like my fabulous crew of gal pals.

So, I think I am going to go with the two day rule...I'll let you know if we decide to see each other again after I call on Tuesday!

Gummy smiles and Drolly kisses,
Gia and Allison

Baby Bling, Bling

It happened. We had one of those weekends where everything is oh so lovely, that you are so full of love for your family and the unity that we have together that you so desperately don't want to weekend to end and then....it does. Monday morning rolls around. Ralph off to work, Gia and I off to getting the mundane details of life situated and the daily blunders roll in and out just like the tide.
Our weekend was incredible. Friday and the actual day of Saturday were pretty uneventful and required numerous hours at the office for Ralph so that we could complete our great adventure. 3pm Saturday....depart to the wonderful land of Indio. Arrive Indio 6pm. Walk up to the festival where we are surprised by (a) how incredibly large this festival is and (b) the sheer number of "over served" individuals.


We scour the premises for Anheuser Busch products. Finally we are VICTORIOUS....except they are clear on the other side of the world from where we are. Hike over. Indulge in a frosty (as frosty as they come out of a cold box and a plastic cup) cold Budweiser for me, Bud Light for Ralph and trek back to our spot.

v>We can't complete the hike until we figure our exactly what we are going to do to ensure Gia's passie stays attached to a member of our family at all times. Eureka! I have a nice necklace on. I'll take it off and put her passie through the necklace and it will be kind of like one of those awful pacifier holders. Done. Thus, the invention of "Baby Bling, Bling".

Head back to the other side of the world. Just in time for Alan Jackson to take the stage. He gave a very nice performance, but this Texas girl and half Texan family where there for the next act.....GEORGE STRAITT! Oh, what a glorious feeling it is that I can stand with my family and belt out his lovely lyrics and no one so much as glances in my direction!

Gia fell asleep in her Baby Bjorn and missed part of it. She then came to and danced the night away with Ralph and I.



We drove home from Indio because I have still not gotten over my distaste for Hotels or meals cooked away from home. Slept in (as much as you can with a five and a half month old) Ralph made breakfast and I made a "Seis de Mayo" dinner.

Lovely weekend. I just wish it din't have to end.

Today's the day

As I have sat for the past five and a half months watching my little bean grow, I just thought that my waist line would diminish as well. Well, some of it has but there is still some to go. Today is the day to face the music and really get going. Gia is so active that she has trouble gaining weight, so I thought....if I could just channel some of her energy to me I would be back to a healthy place in no time.

Yesterday I timed it. The amount of time it takes for me to walk around the small development where our home is. Twenty minutes. I figure, if Gia and I take three twenty minute jaunts she will sleep better at night (hence I will to...not completely selfless in this act), we can explore the different flowers that our neighbors have so graciously planted for our sniffing pleasure and as an added bonus this final ten will come off!

As for Gia, she has the most amazing brown eyes. It is truly amazing. Ralph's have always melted my heart and now hers are just like his. Ralph always consoles Gia that my gene pool was unable to pull through for her in the eye department, but I disagree. She has the most amazing almond shaped, brow eyes that could melt any ones heart. I just gaze into them and think to myself....I hope that she will understand how much we love her...even when we won't let her go do something crazy when she's sixteen.

We're off to Costco now to pick up our Mother's Day cards. Gia always flirts with the greeter at Costco. It is yet another astonishing thing about our beautiful daughter. Her ability to charm, already.

Gummy smiles and Drolly kisses,
Gia and Allison~