Gia's Gurgles

Adidas

2011-12-02T14:34:00.001-08:00

Moving.

2011-02-10T13:21:00.001-08:00

http://bullandchina.wordpress.com/ Come check us out.

Gia has a baby BROTHER.

2011-01-24T15:22:00.000-08:00

I'm still pregnant.

2011-01-14T19:47:00.001-08:00

....and I am so ready to have this baby. So. Very. Ready.

Coveting this for a diaper bag.

2011-01-12T04:13:00.000-08:00

As described on Bloomingdales:

Hunter Hunter Original Tote
A classic natural rubber tote from Hunter with leather-trimmed handles and signature logo stitching detail.

•Double handles

•Interior zip pocket

•Lined. Rubber. Imported

•13.5"W x 16"H x 7.5"D

•7" drop

•Web ID: 514161

Ok, a) how amazingly cute, preppy and WASP-y is this bag and b) it is RUBBER. I read this as a win-win-win for the horrificly neccesity of a diaper bag. Thank you Hunter. Thank you.

Tonia, this is for you.

2011-01-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Freak out.

2011-01-11T03:16:00.000-08:00

So my "body" hasn't progressed in three weeks. THREE WEEKS. And I am due Friday. And I am a hormonal, pregnant mess. A mess I tell you.

And I would really like to see my feet. Super. For real, ya'll.

That being said, I am freaked out. Nothing that every other mother on the planet hasn't had, but all the same it is my freak out.

We move all the time. We have no family and start every move with no real friends. Thus, we three T's? Are a tight knit three. G has been everywhere, done everything with us. She is our light. Our joy. She is glue. She makes her mom and her dad better people. Much. Better. People.

She is so much like me. Read: loves and needs attention. Tons of it. Attention to the point where Ralph and I and all of her teachers are exhausted at the end of the day. In a jubilant, good way. But all the same, it is a full time job. Which oh yeah, RT and I have two of those...too.

So how am I going to do it? How am I going to be the best mom to G and the best mom to Baby T?

My heart is pounding out of my chest right now. POUNDING.

Oh, and I am anti induction because of my huge fear of a c section. So what if my body never progresses and I never see my waist again?

Hello hormones. You are so much fun.

Affirmations and actualization.

2011-01-10T14:32:00.000-08:00

In April it will be two years since I bid corporate America good bye. It has been a strange and wild ride, but it seems that I have finally hit the stride that I was looking for. I work with major corporations and work with amazing people and have found something that I am incredibly passionate and excited about. While every "job" has its ups and downs I honestly love what I do.

It brings me back to a conversation I had with my dear friend Kari sitting in the guest room of our house in Simi Valley. It was about Living the life you love and loving the life you live. At that point in time, my marriage was a work in progress (but when is it not), we were moving to Sacramento (a city I had never been to), transferring to another media job (where in my current media job I was leaving my house at 4:30 every morning and getting home around 4pm to miss my little girl) and pretty much I was not really loving life. I wasn't really doing anything to ensure that I was loving life.

Then I was faced with a decision. Stay with the very comfortable corporate gig or, look elsewhere. I looked elsewhere. It took me a while, but I found the answer. I had to sell lawn services, alarms door to door, a product that was a little confusing and incredibly hard to sell before I found it. But I have it. And everyday it seems to get better.

So the other day I bought this necklace for myself. In my pregnancy induced hormone frenzy I found myself slobbering mess and I just had to have it. And I love it. Just like the life I live.

2011. Bring it.

2010-12-31T23:43:00.000-08:00

Three T's. A very happy bunch.

I am filled with hope, excitement and anxiety as we embark on 2011. 2010 has been a really amazing year. It has been a year of strength, stability, exploration and joy that leaves me full to the brim. That is pretty amazing when you read the headlines of the year.

And here we are in the shadow of the ball about to ring in 2011.

So much is coming that is great. Most of all the newest addition to our family. I stand hand in hand with my support system from both a personal and professional standpoint and look ahead. Clearly anticipating greatness, knowing change is upon us and energized about the unknown.

Thank you 2010. You have been fantastic. I am confident that 2011 is better. Because really it is all about what we chose to make it anyways, right?

Christmas loot.

2010-12-31T09:01:00.000-08:00

After twenty minutes of Christmas Eve mass (G became lethargic due to her super high fever) and our time in the emergency room, we came home and went to bed. Then low and behold a large man in a red velvet suit came down our chimney to visit. He brought Gia a train and hot chocolate. Unfortunately, he did not stay to cook. Maybe next year old man.

Stockings were hung, cookies eaten and children healing. All is right with the world when you get to be a parent on Christmas eve/morning.

And this is what happens when the non analytical parent (me) gets put in charge of creating a train maze. Santa leaves the extra pieces behind. I like the way that man thinks. Let the kid problem solve. He is getting up there in age.

And the little one didn't even notice. Sweet girl was giddy with delight. We cut Christmas in half this year and she was still overwhelmed with all of the presents that she had. Next year we are doing fewer gifts and more giving.

Christmas Eve sleigh day.

2010-12-30T10:54:00.000-08:00

Prior to our excursion to the emergency room (Gia had a UTI and a 103 fever- on Christmas Eve. You go to the e-room), we headed to do some sledding on Christmas Eve. We know how to roll here in the T world...a bucket of chicken, a bag of Dorito's and some snow. We are set for a perfect Christmas Eve day.

We (ahem, Ralph and G) built a frosty. Which Gia promptly kicked over. Gia fell on her head and made a goose egg. There were smiles, laughs, tears and a bit of fit throwing. I did a whole lot of picture taking and sitting on the other sled.

Here is Ralph having Gia talk to him on his Flip. He got that crazy thing on Woot and I think he has died and gone to heaven. Now if we were only patient enough to upload it all to YouTube.

We ended the day with snow angels. Again, to clarify. 38 weeks was not participating in snow angels. Which is kind of a shame becuase that would have made for some sweet pics. And trouble I am sure. Hope that your Christmas Eve was fantastic.

Rice Krispie train.

2010-12-29T20:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve, Eve, Gia and I decided to make our Rice Krispie Treat train. I had bought this kit at Michael's and thought it would be an easy hit. And sure enough, it was.

And here is where mom goes and jumps on three conference calls while Gia makes a Christmas themed candy necklace. Super entertaining and gave me the time to do what I needed to do.

Dad helped her decorate the "Rice Krispie Balls" while I wrapped things up. We then proceeded on to the train. Chug a chug a choo choo!

Super fun and I think we will be doing this again and again (the mold is reusable....SCORE)

Big girl getting ready.

2010-12-22T07:58:00.000-08:00

The last time we took a small trip to San Francisco we stayed in a room that had the perfect set up for our little fashionista. Literally, the highlight of the trip was the time she spent staring, playing, creating, make upping and living in the bathroom. Pretty sure she would die is we could some how remodel her much more spacious bathroom to something of this fashion...for now.

Ice skating.

2010-12-20T08:49:00.000-08:00

These two sweet hearts went ice skating. No one had to go to the emergency room, but we did leave with an ice pack.

Not quite sure if the skating was more fun or thinking that she was wearing some sort of high heel shoe. Either way, she loved it.

And Ralph loved every minute of helping her learn to skate. Super fun to watch. Slightly jealous that I could not get out there and show off my "Toe Pick" (name that movie) action.

Santa...we know him!!!!!!

2010-12-17T10:47:00.000-08:00

We went to San Francisco and met with Jace for our annual cousins visit to Santa. Gia asked again this year for Hot Chocolate. Getting two toddlers (Gia is still a toddler to me) is more difficult than one would expect. Santa looks pretty good from this angle. Up close? He wears Uggs and is a serious long term smoker. But his beard is real. Really, really, really, real.

Christmas frenzy.

2010-12-16T22:51:00.001-08:00

Gia and I have been feverishly baking, creating and caroling. I am thrilled it is Christmas time. Exhausted, but thrilled.

New York City.

2010-12-15T22:35:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, Ralph and I dropped off our ever growing football (the G, we decided to keep Baby T with us on this trip- simply for logistical reasons) off in Houston and after a delicious but comical (think two old people singing Kenny Rogers- Michael Bolton style in a smoky Mexican restaurant) dinner with my parents and the G boarded a plane and headed to the Big Apple.

Originally we were going to Miami. But seriously, who wants to see the backside of a thirty some odd week pregnant woman. Certainly not the thirty some odd week pregnant woman. So we went to NYC. Where in theory you can wear leggings and tights and scarfs and coats.

We stayed in two separate places on Wall Street and they both had awesomeness. If you are looking for the most amazing experience go to the Hotel Andez. If you want some chilling views of Ground Zero, head the the Millennium.

We walked the Brooklyn Bridge, ate, ate and ate some more. Watched a fight at Jay-Z's club, had lunch with dear friends and discovered Eataly.

Don't ever go to the 40-40 club to be wowed. RT wants to have a bromance with Jay-Z and made sure preggers had a place to sit.

View from our second hotel room. Creepy beyond belief. I just kept thinking about what the occupant on 9.11 must have been thinking.

Walking to Eataly. It was such an amazing day. The weather was unseasonably warm, sunny and delicious.

Brianne and I. It was such a treat to connect. We have not seen each other since our wedding. CRAZY. It can not be that long until our next meeting.

Next year we plan on tossing the Baby T football and taking Miss G to NYC for her first time. I think she can hack it. The city that never sleeps seems like it is her kind of town.

Teacher gifts.

2010-12-15T12:20:00.000-08:00

Ridiculously fast and easy.

Gia has some super fantastic teachers. Some of them are serious saints. SAINTS I tell you. I wanted to do something fun but when there are six you don't want to break the bank. So what can you give six ladies that have constant patients with my precious but often boisterous, never naps four year old? Something that can provide them downtime.

I have seen lots of "organic milk baths" on etsy. After some internetting I found a few recipes and gave it a go. Here is the recipe that I used:

1 cup corn starch
2 cups milk powder
1/2 cup baking soda (increase if your water is hard)
1/2 cup finely ground oatmeal
Optional
1/2 cup dried rose petals, lavender or rosemary, and/or a few drops of matching essential oils.

Process oatmeal in the blender until finely ground. Add milk powder and process until well mixed.
Pour into a bowl, add corn starch and baking soda, mixing all ingredients very well.
Grind herbs finely with a mortar and pestle (RIGHT- like that is going to happen), or in the blender, and stir into the powdered mixture. If desired, add a few drops of essential oil and mix well.
Add three tablespoons (or more, if you like) to your next bath to soothe your soul and soften your skin.

Then I put in a canning jar and added a tag. Placed it all in a basket with a box of tea and some home made treats (also super simple and fast) and viola! Teacher gifts checked off the list.

All done while finishing wrapping the presents, mailing the presents, having my Christmas cards mailed (thank you Hallmark) and submitting four proposals to prospects.

Nesting? Yep, I think so.

Advent mania.

2010-12-13T22:24:00.000-08:00

This year I am trying to help Gia understand that Christmas is about giving and not just getting. I swiped this idea from the amazing Laura Mayes. She rocks.

The supplies were easy enough. I went to the Dollar Tree and grabbed some pre made envelopes, angel cut outs, kelly green grogain ribbon and double sided tape.

Then comes the hard part- thinking of all the simple things that we can do to put the giving back to our community and world. All in all it has been a great project. Gia loves the calendar and we are really enjoying the season of giving. My only gripe....my double sided tape does not seem to be sticking. On the upside- it is not ripping the paint off my pantry door.

UGG's for U-G-L-Y.

2010-12-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

Now I must admit that I have owned two pairs of UGG boots, a pair of UGG clogs and a pair of UGG flip flops. The boots are now gone (one I gave to my mother and the other I am not sure what happened to them) the clogs I gave away and the flip flops I wore until they fell apart.

I think UGGS are precious on little girls. I covet a pair of slippers and the ballet flat that they currently have on the market. But I must say there is a serious truth to the "elephant foot" description.

This kind PSA just stopped me from making another purchase of UGG boots. My swollen extremities were begging for them but I have been realigned in my rightful thinking. Now for the ballet flats....not so much.

Weight checks.

2010-12-06T15:18:00.001-08:00

I have this theory that when you are pregnant and go in for your first appointment that when you step on the scale it should read zero.

Then every appointment there after you are given a number up from that. Giving you a total for amount gained.

If you are a masochist or something you can feel free to look at the real number at any given number on any other scale in the universe. Otherwise, you can just have a number....say 20. 20 is so much more bearable than that daunting number.

Everyone here is healthy. Everyone is right on schedule. And the number would be much more digestible as 20 vs.....oh please. I am not posting that on the internets.

Four.

2010-11-29T16:05:00.001-08:00

A funny thing happened. A tiny little baby was born and then all of a sudden, in a wish, bash, boom FLASH….she was four.
It has been an amazing, core altering, tearful, stressful, remarkable, nothing-could-possibly-be-better (except for the rest of her life) four years. That went by in a blink.
I remember holding my little monkey face when she returned from the NICU in that hotel in Los Angeles and thinking, “I am going to be the worst mother ever. There is no way I can possibly love her more than I love her at this very moment.”
And yet, I do.
After 22 months of not sleeping through the night.
Countless doctors and misdiagnoses.
Being three. Temper tantrums galore.
Saying things like, “I just don’t love you anymore. Enough said.”
My heart grows every day. Infinitely. It really is indescribable.
This little life that has been placed in my hands for a few moments that turned my seemingly important and full life on its ear has given me more joy, hope, desire, aspiration and love than I could ever imagine.
You don’t just become a mother. You change. For life. I often hear the adage that, “Life can’t be all about your children.” I don’t subscribe to that.
Yet, I have all the mothering guilt that is bundled with being a working mom with my own interests and desires.
But my life is all about the G. And soon to be Baby T. All. About. Them.
And that means all is right in the world.
Happy Birthday Gia. You gave me a life that I could not have created in any Disney Pixar studio. With an Academy Award winning creative team and orchestra galore. You are just that amazing. Because of you music starts at just the right moment and there is always a happy ending. Because you are here.
- Yes, we celebrated on her actual birthday. Then for seven days following. I am just now getting around to publicly declaring my love of this special November day. Because really, who cares about my birthday when your kid has one? It rocks.
Pictures to come. Of the Fiesta Galore....because Gia turned Four.

April 2, 2011.

2010-11-29T12:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, in the next few months I have some very important dates happening. Much more life changing than the one listed above. However, I am very excited to announce that in a short nineteen weeks (eleven weeks after Baby T's estimated due date) an awesome gal and I will be walking a marathon.

Now, the original plan had been to run a half in April and run a full in July (SF) BUT this amazing gal had on her 40 before 40 list to walk a marathon. So how could I resist? Also, my body tends to do better in a walking capacity anyways. So I am set. Ready to hit the register button and get moving.

I have been walking almost daily my entire pregnancy and was running before. Despite my ever expanding girth I am still in pretty good shape.

I figure if I have the distance of ten solid miles before Baby T and then estimate three to MAX six weeks post baby. Then adding two miles per week after that. Having a 26 mile walk take place on 3.27.2011.

I am so excited I could burst. I am sure much of this excitement comes from the fact that my back side was some how viewed from a three way mirror today. Which is cruel and unusual punishment. But also the thought of a race with someone. I am giddy. Girly, squealing, giddy.

Giving thanks.

2010-11-25T07:31:00.000-08:00

Welcoming Baby T.

2010-11-24T07:09:00.001-08:00

A few weeks ago I was the fortunate recipient of several lovely ladies coming together to provide an amazing lunch to welcome the newest addition to the T family. It was truly spectacular.

My mother is seriously the most amazing human being. Since this lunch, she has taken my child for a week while Ralph and I hob knobbed in NYC, completely helped me reorganize my home for our new addition, thrown a birthday party with me for Miss G and created the most amazing sweaters. I will never live up to all that she does, but I have the best inspiration and am always the lucky recipient.

Someone should have told preggers to put on some lipstick. I need all the help I can get these days.

My awesome friend Corina did all of the logistical execution. And she created a time capsule for Baby T. It is a box full of things from right now that will tell Baby T all about what the world was like when he/she was in utero. Super fun.

Pumpkin Fondue. For the life of me, this is sin that you place on bread. And I could eat it all day long. For that matter, in a box, with a fox, with no socks. Just give me the pumpkin fondue. This is what happens when your dearest friend happens to be a celebrity chef. Oh the sacrifices that I have to make to taste her latest concoctions. Pity me...and Baby T.

Thank you everyone that was involved. What a great day. We are certainly more prepared for Baby T's arrival. Just a few finishing touches. I am sure between the holiday rush it will be here before we know it. But it is only 51 days if anyone is interested.

2010-11-09T12:13:00.000-08:00

I am wildly against video cameras or any cameras in the delivery room. I think this guy got off easy.

Thursday.

2010-11-04T15:18:00.001-07:00

Six Items: Grey Mossimo Sweater, White IO tee, Black Norma Kamali Wrap dress worn as skirt

Other: Tieks, Diamond hoops

I actually like the dress as a skirt. Who knew!

Almost over? Yes please.

2010-11-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

Six Items: Teal Tunic

Others: Black leggings, Mia "diamond girl" gladiators, crystal bangles, crystal earrings.

Ugh, I so want to wear something else. But I am going to stick to it for the next four days. I can do this. I can do this. Any suggestions for what to wear without going crazy?

Get out and vote.

2010-11-02T21:36:00.000-07:00

Six Items: Jeggings, White T

Other: Rust suede wedge, leopard scarf, grandmother's bracelet, grandfather's watch, stud earrings

So I hope that everyone votes today. I love, love, love election day. It is the political science nerd that I am. Funny thing about my vintage jewelry. They are from my now in a better place married grandparents. The bracelet....appraised at a higher value than my vintage (same grandmothers engagement and wedding ring) bracelet and the watch.....a gold Timex that retails in 2010 for $19.99. How is that for a perfect match in a couple. Thinking of you today Grandma and Grandpa. Oh, and Grandma Burton, I am wearing your first (later replace by a larger one by the same man) wedding band that I have coveted since I was six.

Have a great day!

Halloween fun.

2010-11-01T21:31:00.000-07:00

Halloween was full of fun this year. Mimi custom made a literary reproduction of Little Red Riding Hood, aka Little Red Hooding for Miss G. We made it to the church carnival, school party and trick or treating. Candy and junk galore. A kids dream...and hey a pregnant moms dream too.

Hope you had an awesome Halloween!!! Want any candy? Because I am throwing all of ours away!

The weekend.

2010-11-01T15:58:00.001-07:00

Saturday October 30

Six items- black norma kamali wrap dress

others: riding boots, maternity tights, shrug from shop in Los Feliz circa 2004

Sunday, October 31

Six Items: Vintage velvet blazer, white isabella oliver t, black jeggings

Others: cowboy boots, rope, cowboy hat, green bandana

Monday, November 1

Six Items- white t, black jeggings, grey sweater

Other- vaneli ballet flats

I have gone through my closet and purged 100+ items. It feels so good. Also, it is much easier when you can't wear half your stuff anyway because of a large belly. Made it through Halloween without buying anything and sticking to the six item challenge. I do have to say, the rest of my closet is so very appealing right now. My anticipation of the finish line is HUGE. I may just do it for the two weeks and call it quits. Who knows, we shall see.

FRIDAY......FINALLY!!!!

2010-10-29T12:44:00.001-07:00

Six Items: Teal tunic as dress

Other: Maternity tights, black suede riding boots, chain necklace that came with a plus sized shirt I bought just for the necklace at wait for it.....WAL MART

Thrilled that it is Friday!!!! I spent last night baking brownies and making this wild dip and slicing apples for Gia's class. Happy Halloween.

Skor Bar Apple Dip

2 packages reduced fat cream cheese

1 c fat free sour cream

Madagascar Vanilla to taste

3 Skor Bars Crushed

Whip cream cheese, fat free sour cream and vanilla until airy. Fold in crushed Skor bars. Refrigerate overnight and serve with granny smith apple slices.....WOWZER.

Pumpkin patch with "her kids".

2010-10-28T10:43:00.000-07:00

This year we went to Bishops Farm with Gia's class from school. Gia thinks that all of the kids that go to her school are "her kids" and she could not stop talking about the upcoming trip for ages. I think I am going to start my sister in law's method of not informing her of any happening or event until the morning of otherwise it is endless chatter.

It was unseasonably warm, but no one seemed to mind. It is just funny to see everyone dressed more for summer than a fall harvest. Gia was in hog heaven sitting on Miss Megan's lap, feeding the goats (so gross!) and being best friends with Olivia. It was really awesome to have Gia going up to all of "her kids" and saying this is my mommy. She was so excited. I remember going to some random farm with my mom around Gia's age and I was just excited to have her along. I am just cherishing every moment because thirteen will be here before I know it and she won't want to be within a ten mile radius of me.

We took a hay ride, saw a pig race, picked a pumpkin off the vine and rode a train. A very full and successful day. Gia came home and crashed. Which was good because then I was able to work.

I just love this picture below. She looks so aloof, but was having so much fun. Happy Fall.

Four down, ten to go.

2010-10-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

Six Items: Black jeggings, White tee, Grey sweater

Others: Brown kitten heel boots, brown skinny belt at empire, brown Miami ring, necklace via Kari

So the kind of scary thing about this challenge is how little people notice what you are wearing and how easy or boring it is to pull things out of your closet to wear. I

am going to force myself to get rid of a bunch of stuff between now and next week when I chose my next six items.

I did a little research and if you have multiples of something, you can use them. So for the next two weeks I will be doing that simply because I work full time, have an almost four year old and am reedonkulously preggers and don't want to wash junk as often as I have been and will be for the next ten days.

Things I have already learned......

men are crazy smart, if you like something buy it in every color
having some sort of uniform makes life easier
I have way to many clothes, but think I could always use more shoes and accessories
Wal Mart makes some crazy jeggings for $12. Yep, that is what they are and I had purchased them in denim and black and have worn the black ones and keep getting crazy compliments...go buy some today
I feel cuter in heels. Especially when preggers. Wedges feel less "formal" to me and are something that I need more of now that I work in a casual (at home) environment.
More does not always mean more. More of the right thing that makes you feel amazing is more, if something doesn't make you feel amazing....get rid of it...including or especially lounging around the house clothes. I can not for the life of me figure out why people want to look like slobs when relaxing at home or going to the gym. Yuck.
I work out and still have an almost four year old so I have loads and loads of laundry despite I am only wearing six pieces of clothing (outside of the gym and lounging around) and my husband takes nearly everything to the cleaners.

Ralph has been out of town a bunch and I don't actually think that he will realize that I have only been wearing six pieces of clothing. That somewhat disturbs me as to how much he notices things.

Pumpkin farm adventure.

2010-10-27T11:19:00.000-07:00

Gia ready to go play in the mud on the tractor tires.

We rode a train, shot pumpkins out of an air riffle and rode ponies. All in all, what more could an almost four year old ask for?

Oh, to get to hang out with her cousin Jace. Yep, it is for certain that she had a blast.

Day three.

2010-10-27T06:33:00.000-07:00

Six items: Black Norma Kamali wrap dress

Others: Grey tights, black knee socks, black suede riding boots, silver medallion earrings, bangles, white guaze scarf, grey.white infiniti scarf.

Today is a good day. The universe is sending out all of these good things and it was cold here this morning. I feel like everything is sunshine and roses. Ralph is headed to the World Series and Gia and I have a very exciting girl's night planned. I couldn't ask for more. Oh, and I kind of like my outfit.

Oktobrewfest.

2010-10-26T10:51:00.000-07:00

Gia ran in her second "marathon" and had a blast. She completed the 1/4 mile, next time she is going to go for the half. She is so enthusiastic. I just want to note that I could care less (but would be thrilled) if she found a love of running, but she is so excited to run "marathons", get a bib, ribbon and t shirt that it thrills me to no end.

She held my hand the entire race until she saw the finish line and she dropped my hand and sprinted. I was so proud and quite envious. Usually by the end of my marathons there is no juice for a speed pick up. Training post baby T is looking to include more speed work and I am hoping to find some more respectable finish times.

The two runner girls.

Although, I think some of Gia's excitement for running comes from the bounce houses, face painting and games that follow the run more than the run itself. But whatever it is, she loves it. I wish they had more kid fun runs around. They are so few and far between.

Day two.

2010-10-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Six Items: Black jeggings (hand washed last night), cable and gauge tunic
Accessories: Black suede Nine West riding boots, Vintage wide cuff

Yesterday afternoon I picked Gia up and we went to the park. Before I went to pick her up, I took off the shrug my mom gave me added a multi colored crazy scarf that she had knitted me as well and put on my blue Tieks. So I can not believe that I used up two days of outfits in one work at home day, but oh well. I am confident that I have enough accessories to make it work.

I am not sure that I am loving the black jeggings and black boot combo. I theory it should be great, but a little contrast would be nice. Funny thing about this is that I think that I am thinking about clothes more now, but more about what I already have versus what I need/want to acquire. I am also realizing that I have very, very few maternity clothes. I purchased a few Isabella Oliver tops (which I LOVE) and the rest is non maternity, but stretchy. I hope that they last me through the entire eleven weeks that we have left (but if you are healthy baby T and want to come show your face on or around 12.14 we would love to have you to celebrate Christmas!)

Thank you Tonia and Mom for your sweet comments. They really do make a bloated, 29 week pregnant girl feel good. ;-) So great to have amazing people all around.

Until tomorrow.

Six items. Why oh why did I decide to do this?

2010-10-25T07:18:00.000-07:00

Day One: 6 Items: Black Jeggings, White IO Tank
Accessories: Gold Mia Wedge, Shrug courtesey of my Mom, Vintage Butterfly brooch that was my grandmothers

So I am committing to this for six items for fourteen days, twice. If I like it or feel that the challenge is invigorating then I will decide if I want to continue the six items/two weeks challenge for the remainder of my pregnancy.

So here are the six items that I chose:

1. White Isabella Oliver Scoop Neck T Shirt
2. Teal Cable and Gauge Tunic
3. Black Norma Kamali long sleeve wrap dress
4. Black LEI Jeggings
5. Grey Mossimo wrap cardigan
6. Navy Blue Vintage velvet blazer

I will post pictures of my outfit choices daily. A few things that I have already learned (note- I am writing this in my bathrobe and am not even dressed) that there is a lot that you can do with six items, I wonder if those that I see on a regular basis - including my husband- will notice and I am dreading doing daily laundry, but looking forward to only having to pack six items when I go somewhere. I have a ton of accessories that I have forgotten about or have just not had the courage to wear.

So here we go.

Six item....shopping diet.

2010-10-21T16:11:00.000-07:00

So I am thinking I am going to do this. I think about clothes almost all the time. And I am pregnant. I would certainly fall into the creative/curiosity camp. Also, I want to not buy anything and have that money to buy some new clothes for after Baby T arrives.

I am thinking this through and looking to find pieces that I won't get sick of over the course of the period.

Because I do have more maternity clothes than necessary, I may just use the existing pieces in my closet and pick six for two weeks, then another six for two weeks until the end of my pregnancy. So really, it is a twelve week challenge for me utilizing a total of 72 pieces. Some I am confident I will use more than once but this way I won't get too bored but still won't go out and buy anything new. I figure this will provide me a pretty nice budget to buy some things for Baby T and myself come gloomy February.

This also gives me the incentive to stay on track with my diet and exercise as we embark on these last few weeks.

So for the two weeks starting Monday, October 25- Sunday, November 6. I have an added incentive because the baby shower is on November 6 which will prevent me from trying to go out and buying a new dress for the shower.

So, the rules allow that accessories do not count, work out clothes, and shoes are interchangeable. I am viewing a jackets/tights as an accessories because the weather is a little wonky right now.

So before Monday I will post the piece choices and see what I can do......I think I am nuts.

Evolution of getting older.

2010-09-30T06:45:00.000-07:00

My 21st birthday-
- Norman, OK
- Homecoming/Homecoming Eve....BOOMER SOONER
- Spent the eve of my birthday float building and was at Mr. Bill's at 11:59pm to enjoy that first drink
- Someone over served me
- Spent 9.29.2000 not feeling so great
- Dinner that night at the Mont with good friends and my parents
- PARTY, PARTY, PARTY

My 31st birthday-
- Northern California
- Morning run to return to flowers and cards from my two sweeties
- Kari's wedding prep
- Spent the eve of my birthday falling asleep on the couch
- I saved my birthday card from my parents to read and cherish on my actual birthday (presents came earlier and Isabella Oliver can not wait)
- Spent the day of my birthday working, taking my girl to the nugget store and picking up my MIL from the train station
- In bed at 11:20---can't tell you the last time I stayed up that late

The real evolution? That the first one that involved parties, hoopla and major focus on me sounds down right exhausting, painful to my body and overindulgent.

I. am. old. And I kind of like it.

New baby.

2010-09-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

My wonderful parents were in town for nearly a week. It was fantastic. Of course, they would be the ones to bring the new baby its first thing. And it is this soft, amazingly precious little onesie.

Funny how when I was pregnant with Gia, every single thought that I had was centered around pregnancy, birth, nursery planning, child proofing, registry, the list goes on and on. This go around? I sometimes have to remind myself that I am pregnant.

No worries precious little one, Mimi may have just spawned me into a shopping frenzy.

We all love you so much. Especially your big sister. She is so ready to show you the ropes and hug and kiss you. She already does every day.

Just a few, short (hopefully not long) fifteen weeks.

Seven months and a heat wave.

2010-09-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

For the love. The high is ninety nine degrees today. That is NINE-NINE people. And I live in Northern California.

Oh, and did someone mention that I am seven months pregnant.

Seven Months.

My body would really appreciate a brisk, fall season.

Reasons why?

- My non pregnant self prefers this time of year. Affectionately referred to as Autumn.
- Leaves turning, pumpkin spice, and steaming hot mugs of whatever sound good.
- Running/Jogging/Whatever nonsense I have been doing is much easier when it is a reasonable temperature.

and last, but certainly not least......

- At seven months pregnant my bottom really needs leggings, jeans, some sort of coverage people. Seriously, it is not good for me or anyone else to see said pregnant back side jumping into a bathing suit right now.

Oh, and did I mention in two weeks I will be in Miami on business. Loving. My. Figure. Loving it.

But I will be loving some Cuban food. Lots. of. it.

Studio City Shower.

2010-09-24T13:54:00.000-07:00

About a month after her killer bachelorette, we threw her a shower at James (her fiance's) Aunt's house. This house is to die for. Over looking Studio City perched a top a hill we brought together twenty five of her closest friends to shower her with love. Kim, Kari's sister, made these amazing cook books (Kari is a chef to the stars) for us all to take home. It was such an absolutely amazing day.

Tieks. Bliss. Seriously.

2010-09-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

I was introduced to Tieks by Maggie Mason. Then I was generously given a pair. I in turn gave them to my mother because she is the worlds most amazing person.

Then a funny thing happened. I could not stop thinking about them.

After years and years of commuting and wearing horrendously uncomfortable shoes I decided that my thirty (so close to thirty one) self deserved a pair of these gems....NOW.

So I did it...and here is to my good shopping karma because if you send an email to your ten closest friends that you don't mind having these precious slippers on their feet they will give you up to a thirty percent discount.

Couple that with purchasing the "true blue" and I walked away with these amazing shoes for the price of a very reasonable shoe.

Good. Shopping. Karma.

Love it and love some Tieks.

Order today!!!!

Kolache craziness.

2010-09-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

If you are from Texas, you know what a kolache is. If you know what a kolache is, then you love them. Imagine every native Texan's dismay to find out that these sweet, salty, goodness baked goods are only to be found in our great home state. Well, what is a girl to do? Set out to make them.

I should totally lie and say that this was all my brilliant idea, but I would be lying. My now dear friend and the mother of three of the most amazing children that I babysat for as a teen (who now lives in Colorado) gave me this idea. You should check out Mama Holli here.

So I made them two ways...one I made homemade kolache dough and the other I used frozen bread dough to do the same. These have now become a favorite at my house and for the record i will not be making the dough from scratch. I will be thawing the frozen bread dough over night and using it in the morning. Not that the homemade dough was that difficult. I am just not sure that it was really that much better. Ease. Simplicity. Time savings.

So you take about an egg sized piece of dough and pat it down flat. Wrap it around a two inch long piece of pork sausage and put in a pre heated 375 degree oven and bake for fifteen minutes. Sometimes I add a little pepper jack cheese for spice and gooey, cheesy goodness. And out pop these amazing delicacies.

The sausage is cured so they can stay out on the counter for passer bye's to gobble up. They will now be my Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, any holiday with a big lunch/dinner staple and any leave behind with a fresh squeezed bottle of oj for a dinner party host to have a nice, quick breakfast in the morning. My mouth is watering!!!! ENJOY!

Malibu bachelorette.

2010-09-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

My very, very dear friend Kari is getting married in early October. For her bachelorette we had the difficult time of staying in a house on the water in Malibu and all of the girls (except me) had champagne and we ate delicious food. It was seriously one of the most amazing weekends EVER.

Baking cookies.

2010-09-15T11:05:00.000-07:00

Gia is not the worlds best sleeper. Never has been and while it may improve, the act of going to sleep or taking naps at school does not get any easier with age. The very idea of adding another not so great sleeper to the bunch is freaking me out.

Me: G why didn't you take a nap today?
Gia: I was making fuzz cookies from my monkey pillow pet and I had to check and see if the cookies were done and I stood up and all of a sudden I was being put in time out.

Oh, escaping the blame. A trait that is learned from a very young age. A very young age.

Fuzz cookies? Gross. Could they not have at least been chocolate chip?

Picnic at the park.

2010-09-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

These are from so very long ago, but I could not resist uploading and telling the story. One Friday during this past summer Gia and I learned of a concert/picnic at one of our local parks. We cooked and cooked and got all of our thing is order to head out and celebrate when Ralph arrived home.

The night was absolutely perfect. There was a nice breeze with just enough heat. The perfect California combination. Live music, vendors, park equipment and bounce houses galore for the kiddos and families to enjoy.

Gia was bounce, bounce, bouncing away. And then she slid down this slide. When she jumped off the end she hit her head on the concrete. Ralph and I really did not think anything of it because she popped up and went on to bounce and play some more.

As you can see, she finished the night strong. Until the ride home. I turn around because she was way to quiet and all of a sudden I smell it. PUKE. All over the place. Still I really did not think anything of it. Came home, washed up and put that sick baby girl in our bed. Where she threw up again. While in the second bath Ralph and I on cue looked at each other and realized that she hit her head. Hard. On concrete.

Off to the hospital (where she threw up on me again and of course I had a change of clothes for her but not for me). We spent the rest of the night in the ER. They decided she was lucid and fine and sent us on our very merry way.

Gia is fine. Except for when she wears this blue shirt? She calls it her threw up shirt.

Just another morning at the T house.

2010-09-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

We're all planning on posing and dressing like this today.

San Francisco, weddings and cool weather.

2010-09-10T13:22:00.000-07:00

One of my dearest friends in the entire world was married in Massachusetts last July. We were fortunate enough to attend the reception for his West Coast world in San Francisco. It was an absolute picturesque day in our beloved city by the bay. So great to see two hearts joining as one and it being celebrated by all.

Because of our darling three year old we were unable to attend the after party. We headed to the Raider game instead. Which was fun, but I forgot my camera. The next morning we piddled around the markets in the morning and had family time. The best part of the whole weekend? It was sweater weather!!!

The crisp wind blows.

2010-09-08T22:18:00.000-07:00

I am not exactly sure of the scientific reason that the weather was so unseasonably cool today but I have soaked every morsel of it up and will cherish it for as long as it remains.

The high was 73.

The wind was blowing.

I wore a sweater with jeans.

I made chili for lunch.

Tomato soup and grilled cheese for dinner.

My nightcap of choice? (Or at least while I am with child) a nice, big mug of hot chocolate topped with gooey, melty marshmallows.

Ahhh, how I wish fall was here to stay.

The Great Reno Rib Cook Off.

2010-09-07T12:37:00.001-07:00

This past weekend was the Reno Rib cook off. Please don't ask, I do not know who won. I just ate lots of really bad food and had loads of fun with my family.
Every time we head to Reno I am always surprised by how nice it in fact is. It has all of the glitz and glam of Vegas, a lot less packed and I have to point out that while it has some nice restaurants not nearly the caliber of Vegas. And the shopping doesn't compare.

That being said, the VIP rib's are the way to go. The best of the best from around the country come together to show there stuff. When you head to the VIP tent all of the vendors have there ribs spread out for everyone to eat. Nestle follows with ridiculously huge ice cream bars.

Saturday we went to an outdoor mall and Scheel's the largest sporting good store in the country and then we headed over to ride the rides and have Girly Girl give our girly girl a make over.

The weather was so nice and crisp. It makes me long for fall. Tomorrow the high is supposed to be 73 and I hope that the cool snap stays. The thought of turning leaves and pumpkins pulls at my heart strings.

Hope you all had a great Labor Day weekend. Ralph and I were talking at breakfast on Sunday morning about how so many of our T Traditions are about to change. Change for the better, but change all the same when our newest T arrives.

Confessions of a busy mom.

2010-09-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make. My daughter and I both got our haircut at Wal Mart this week. This could potentially be one of the lowest points in my parenting life.

Is this any indication of exactly how busy we have been around here? Yes.

Let us start with the fact that it has been crazy busy at work for both Ralph and I. We have been working like crazy and RT has been out of town at least two to three days a week for nearly the past two months. I want to note that we are so incredibly thankful that we are just this busy with jobs that are paying and provide for our family.

Couple all the work craziness with out of town for business/pleasure which does not seem to slow until the end of October and started mid June.

Top that off with an in service week for Gia's school...and you have some time crunched peeps.

Monday I had to go to the grocery store. It is with a certain amount of embarrassment that I admit I shop at Wal Mart. In fact, I have since we moved here. It is so much closer than Target (which is not a Super Target) and so much more reasonable than Save Mart. So there, I said it. My name is Allison and I am a Wal Mart Shopper.

I had not had a haircut since early June and Gia had not had one since mid July.

We were looking pretty darn shabby.

And there it was. The haircut place sitting there right after you are greeted by the sweet retiree at the door. Calling my name.

Internal dialogue:

Practical Mom (PM from now on): Do you know how much time I will save you?

Hipster Mom (HM from now on): Seriously, what will you tell your husband?

PM: You are time crunched, preggo and look horrible.

HM: And you think a Wal Mart haircut will help.

PM: Anything will help at this point.

HM: Ok, maybe you are right. We just won't tell anyone about it.

PM: Yeah right, you haven't done a real blog post in nearly three weeks.

So I bit the bullet and walked up to the counter and said I need two haircuts.

They were done with a spray bottle and scissors and we were out in Wal Mart to get milk, bread and eggs in less than thirty minutes.

For a grand total (a very, very generous tip and all) of $26.95.

And believe it or not, our hair looks pretty good. Seriously.

So today Ralph has to do a price survey and he just said he may go get a hair cut at Wal Mart....what are we becoming?!?!?!!?!!!?

I guess when you combine time, work, a three year old and a recession your days of $300 salons are gone and you are reduced to a Wal Mart haircut. But it was fun.

Really.

It was.

What a difference.

2010-08-28T12:04:00.000-07:00

Today, the high in SF is 59 degrees. Crossing the Bay Bridge it is 65, sunny with pretty clouds in the sky. Congratulations Fred and Peter, we love you!!!

G may have a future in the armed services.

2010-08-28T07:20:00.000-07:00

It is 97 degrees in San Francisco

2010-08-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

.....And Gia and I walked for almost three miles. My feet look like sausages (thank you baby T) and they have room service and Sprout on the TV.

bath....check
Mammies....check
Cozied in.....check
Big hunk of chocolate cake...check
Cuggles from the girl....check

Best girls night ever....check!!!

Thanks to the fantastic air conditioner hot natured preggo can barely notice the ridiculous heat or the outrageous room service bill.

Oh, I have pregnancy brain and never seem to remember my camera. Rats.

Happy Anniversary.

2010-08-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

2010-08-10T14:43:00.001-07:00

Eighty Thirty Nine.

2010-08-10T09:33:00.000-07:00

When Gia was little everthing was eight thirty nine.

What time is it? eight thirty nine
How much does it cost? eight thirty nine
When should we leave? eight thirty nine

I think this can be attributed to her actual lax bed time of 8:30 or 9:00 which was probably stated to others by Ralph and I as eight thirty nine.

As so many other precious dialects, this has slowly removed itself from Gia's vocabulary. Which really made me sad. Sad to think how much she is growing and how quickly the days are passing. But even more so because I realize that I have not documented these particular words in a fashion where they will be easily accessible as I am sure the vivid moments will fade like all things in life do.

She now has graduated to everything happened on Friday night.

Gia, do you like apples? no
Since when? Friday night.

Gia, do you want to go to the park? Not right now.
Ok, when? On Friday night.

Daddy said I can wear make up and glitter all the time?
When did Daddy say that? On Friday night.

My mom used to make audio cassette tapes of us when we were little telling stories and singing songs that we cherished. Each year is documented somewhere on audio cassettes (granted, I don't think any of us actually owns a cassette player, but that is besides the point) they are there to bring joy to my moms heart.

Isn't it funny how when you take the other senses away, it amplifies the others? How hearing just the voice or seeing just the face makes everything else that was taking place at that moment in time so much more vivid?

Grandpa.

2010-08-06T06:20:00.000-07:00

Today would have been my grandfathers 101st birthday. He passed away six years ago at 95. His life was very full and complete. Marked by huge blessings and a few tragedies. He brought joy to many and as most great personalities could be a giant pain in the rear.

He wasn't a great dad. But he made that up to my dad by being an AMAZING grandfather and a fantastic adult father. His purpose during retirement was to make memories for his grand kids.

Memories that bring such complete happiness I am weeping as I think about them.

Mardi Gras parades.

Rolling down the levy.

Catching lizards.

Allowing Eddie Jr. to feed me a chili pepper and tell me it was a strawberry.

Eating at Mason's.

Money ties for Eddie and the donkey for me.

Big parties.

HUGE celebrations.

Big hugs.

Spending hours laughing at watching Ann of Green Gables on rewind.

Thanksgiving parade.

Being a grump. But also being the life of the party.

The house where I spent my youth had overhang cabinets above the kitchen "bar" counter. My grandpa was completely bald (with a few white hairs sticking out) in every picture I have seen of him over the age of thirty. Every time he came to our house (about once a month) he hit his head so hard on that overhand that he would cut his poor, bald head.

He made this big scene. Think "Three Stooges" physical comedy. We laughed.

I was twenty nine years old before I finally realized that he was in real pain from knocking his noggin on that darn overhang. But making fun memories for Eddie and I was more important than getting a moment of sympathy from everyone.

You are truly missed. Completely and fully. Not a day goes by that a story does not cross my mind, lips or heart. You would be proud to know that your beloved son is doing an excellent job becoming the same grandfather you were to Eddie and I. Thanks for being a great teacher to him.

You are loved by all.

P.S.: I still have the donkey and have to display it on my birthday. Really, a birthday is not a birthday without that donkey. And for the record, even if it is worth a million dollars I am not selling it.

What a way to start the day.

2010-08-05T07:26:00.000-07:00

Cute cousins.

2010-08-02T16:02:00.000-07:00

These two girls are really quite amazing. We had a blast just enjoying Mimi and Popa's house. Thanks for the hospitality!

Special moments.

2010-07-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

I am turning into one of those people. All I talk about is my kiddo. I should find some sort of apology in there, but the reality is I love it.

I have a very full life. I work. In an exciting emerging field. I am committed to my outlets and make time for myself daily. I adore my husband. I have amazing friends. I do cool things that don't involve G.

But for some reason, documenting those moments is just not nearly as amazing or fun as documenting life with Miss G. I may regret not writing down each of the other aspects of my life, but I can say with full certainty that not placing these memories down on paper (errr...digitally) would be one of my biggest...if only's in life.

She loves to eat. She is full of joy. She is enthusiastic and sometimes loud. Her vibrant can be overwhelming to some, but to me it is just a little reminder that I am her mom.

I love you G. Everyday I worry you won't know just how much and then I wake up the next day I wake up loving you more. Thank you.

These are the golden years.

2010-07-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

When I was Gia's age I called McDonald's Make Up Donalds. As we would drive down Highway Six towards the beloved golden arches...where the playground was outside and there was a giant hamburger to climb in; I would sit in the front seat of the grey Lincoln Continental, sans seat belt and put on my imaginary make up while we got ready for the excitement.

Today.....

G: Mommy, remember when you were a little girl and you and Mimi would go to the nugget store?
Me: Yes
G: Remember how silly you were and you would call it the Make up Nugget Store? HAHAHAHAH. You were so silly and talked like a little baby.

Bad words.

2010-07-24T22:06:00.001-07:00

Exchange in the car on our way home from dinner last night....

Ralph, Allison and Gia present.

G: Mommy, Daddy says bad words.
Me: Really? What bad words does he say?
G: I-A-R-Z-S. See, that's a really bad word.
Me: Oh, I'll talk to Daddy about it.
G: And put soap in his mouth? Because that's nasty talk. And we don't talk that way.

Eighty three.

2010-07-12T08:41:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Ralph's grandfather's 83rd birthday. We helped him celebrate.

It was very hot, but there were lots of treats and loads of things to do that helped keep your mind off the heat.

Gia got to spend some quality time with her little cousin lovey Jace. She just loves to be the "big girl". Lucky for Jace he seems to pretty much ignore her bossy antics.

There was chocolate cake. Enough said. It was the highlight for me. As it generally is.

Gia had the highlight of the pinata and Ralph the highlight of a new hat. All was good.

Some very hot T's. Oh, and chocolate cake makes Miss G just as happy as her mommy.

Why we should all be Credit Union members.

2010-07-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

Ralph and I have been members of the Anheuser- Busch Credit Union for all of our separate and together adult life's.

My parents have been members of the Cy Fair Credit Union since I was in Junior High.

Credit Unions have provided great loans, help when refunding accounting mishaps and just darn good customer service.

Granted, I don't have access to a gabillion ATM's. And I have to go to share branches much more often than not.

But after my latest banking woe, Credit Union's have my loyalty.

I am a magazine junkie. I love them. The glossy pages sliding through my finger. Renewals happen frequently on my bank account. But two recently stood out.

A FEW (like three) years back I ordered four different rags for my parents. It was some kind of crazy deal for $5 subscriptions. Who can beat that.

I am a sucker for a deal. So I signed them up and happily paid the twenty bones.

I was charged $39 for each magazine renewal (for 12 mos....each publisher charges between $7 and $20 for a year) this year.

The number listed on my statement provided NO access to a human being. NONE WHATSOEVER.

I call my Credit Union.

My Credit Union called the corporation (NEW SUB MAGAZINES owned by TIME) and had them reverse the charges and cancel all future charges.

In a matter of thirty minutes I got a call back with a cancellation number and Mary telling me she would be on the look out for the refund.

Tell me, you think Wells Fargo or Bof A will do that?

I love Credit Unions. Especially Anheuser Busch Employees Credit Union.

Celebrate America.

2010-07-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

Our 4th was pretty low key. We have been going, going, going this summer and it just looks like it will remain that way through October so we decided to take advantage of being home and enjoying the three T's.

Saturday we ran errands, took a bike ride, went to the pool and out to dinner. It was fun and relaxing. Sunday was more of the same. We then headed up to Auburn for a parade.

My two patriots. I just love this picture. So happy. Flags waving in the wind. Sigh.

Auburn is a sleepy little town nestled about twenty miles north of Sacramento. It really has a great community vibe and they always plan the best activities. There were loads of "floats" (having grown up in New Orleans parade land I use this term lightly) decorated and adorned by locals. It was so much fun to be part of the community even if it was as a spectator.

No, Ralph is not an alcoholic. He has worked for AB for nearly twenty years. The "World Famous Clydesdale's" were in town and we had to support. I was disappointed that they were not playing "Here comes the King" with the hitch. Why is it that everything has to change?

Gia was thrilled to see this Dorothy. She tried to follow her. Then she was concerned that she was not walking on a yellow brick road. Everyone showered Gia with candy and other trinkets. Why is it that you give a kid crud.....stuff that is valued at $0.10 and they are thrilled?

I had someone sitting next to us take our picture. We were completely black from shadows and this is my blotchy attempt to photoshop us. Oh well, at least it is not the one arm camera shot.

Hope you and yours had a great holiday weekend!

What would Caillou do?

2010-07-05T05:50:00.000-07:00

Not sure when it happened. Gia made a transition from loving Sesame Street to loving Caillou. It is even more unusual because until she began requesting it the television in our home had never veered away from Sesame Street.

Anyways, there are much worse shows than Caillou out there. He is a kind, thoughtful, curious, helpful, imaginative good big brother kind of guy. His parents are loving but firm. Gia is completely engaged and literally squeals with delight at the first beats of music to the theme song.

On occasion, the adjectives that are used to describe our sweet little monkey stray from those that describe Caillou.

So Ralph and I have started saying to Gia, "What would Caillou do?"

Yikes. Yikes. Yikes.

But it works.

Go Team Go!

2010-07-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

G is quite the enthusiastic sports fan. She screams and screams for the team. Even though she is not sure what is happening. Other than if you ask her about any particular sports team her response is, "The Raiders are not being nice. They are not winning." It's ok baby girl, the Sooners are.

There really is no more beautiful ball park than Pac Bell. My heart will always root for the Atro's.

Mr. Baseball himself.

Capitola, CA.

2010-06-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back, Gia and I tagged along on one of Ralph's business trips. He had the hard job of heading to California's beautiful Capitola. It was a very short trip, but just enough time to get in some beach jogs and sand castle building. The weather was simply amazing and we found this great little place that served mini ice cream cones for a dollar. We each had two during our two day stay. I must say if we have another opportunity, we will be joining Ralph on every Capitola business trip!

Another year has passed.

2010-06-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked my moms birthday. She is now another year older. And for that, I am another year wiser.

I have been blessed with the worlds most incredible mother. I can honestly say, with the exception of High School, we have never had that tense mother daughter relationship. It breaks my heart when I hear girlfriends in their thirties talk about difficult scenarios with their moms.

My mom is a breath of fresh air. When she comes to visit, life is fantastic. And to top this off....all three T's agree.

My mom has taught me to not be afraid of change, to take charge of your destiny, to love with no apology and to give back to others what you would like in turn.

She is classically beautiful and graceful in every act. She brings a sense of calm and wonder to every room that she enters.

Most of all, there has never, ever, ever, ever been a moment when I did not feel loved.

Mom, I want to be just like you when I grow up.

This is a true crash from sugar.

2010-06-25T23:32:00.000-07:00

Gia's first school performance.

2010-06-18T19:37:00.000-07:00

I charged the battery on my DSLR. I put said DSLR in my purse. Ralph brought the video camera.

We got to school with time to spare. Color orange in the rainbow was styled and ready. Ralph went and saved us two seats. I joined him shortly.

Out comes my amazing DSLR. Let's take a couple of pre program shots. Click. Click.

I forgot to put the now fully charged battery back into my camera.

Two days prior I had removed the point and shoot from my bag.

Gia's big stage debut and all I have are these two stinking pictures.

Hopefully I can find some pictures from someone else.

Ralph does have the video.

If only we could figure out how to format those.

Headed to the Giants game.

2010-06-13T11:03:00.000-07:00

Two peas in a pod.

2010-06-12T22:57:00.000-07:00

Watching Calliou on my bed. Just relaxing on a summer night. Bliss.

Frances, just like Gia.

2010-06-10T07:45:00.000-07:00

Did you read the Frances books when you were little? You know, the ones about the little creature (I think porcupine- I googled it to no avail) that was so sweet and only wanted to eat bread and jam.

Until that was all she had eaten for nearly a week!!?! Suddenly, left out and sad she wanted to eat other things. And her family ate soft boiled eggs from egg cups?
Well, Mimi brought us egg cups. Growing up, I was enamored (primarily because of my mother) by the details of illustrations in children's books. What the house looked like, the coat Madeline wore, the tree house Miss Suzy ate her nuts in, the egg cups France's family at from, and always pined to do things just like my favorite characters out of books. Fortunately for me (and now Gia) my mom (the beloved Mimi) always tried her darndest to make those pictures in books come to life for me. She continues to do the same for Miss G. What fun.

And in case you were wondering, it is true. Soft boiled eggs from egg cups...really are that much better than just a plain soft boiled egg.

Picnic by the lake.

2010-06-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

One thing I have resolved to do is take advantage of our surroundings. Everything from the wonderful "tourist attractions" that Northern California has to offer, but just the simple things that are literally in our back yard. So last night Gia and I packed a picnic dinner (out of this world chicken salad sandwiches and yogurt parfaits) packed up the wagon and headed to the creek (Gia calls it the river) that runs behind our house.
Gia could not stop playing. She was in heaven. There was another family there and she was able to play with her kids. It is about a two mile walk to the portion of the creek that has a beach area to sit. Gia walked about half way there. And then played for an hour.

It really is remarkable how when you encourage a kid to be a kid and allow them the activity that they need how well they behave. I am just thrilled by how much fun we had last night and can not wait for more and more river dinners to come this summer and fall.

Elsewhere.

2010-06-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

For the past two weeks, I have been elsewhere. Not really. Just elsewhere in the sense that I have been somewhat checked out of the blogging, facebook, social media world. My parents were here for a week and we had a blast doing all of the "things you can't do in Texas" things....Trader Joe's, In-n-Out, sitting on the back patio. You know, the usual.

I think it is funny how we have all of these tools to keep us connected, but somehow they seem to disconnect us. I love blogging. I love the Internet. I love, love, love social media in general. But sometimes I think all of that connectivity leaves me disconnected from my real life. Which really is beside the point.

So, I think I am back. But I am really not so sure. We have planted our garden and given our back yard some upgrades. The weather finally feels like it is going to warm up and stay warm. So if I am being honest I may be just too busy enjoying my husband and little girl in real life to blog. But I want to blog. So we will see how it goes.

What have you been up to this spring?

Mimi and Popa are coming!

2010-05-17T18:34:00.000-07:00

Total dorks.

2010-05-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

but it was good times. Really, really good times.

Growing, growing, growing.

2010-05-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

"Mommy, we have matching seat belts."

I told her that if she claimed it was TOO TIGHT. Just once...it was gone and the old one was back. She looks so big here. Sigh. Sad and proud and happy. All in one breath.

Giant trains.

2010-05-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Gia and I met Ralph in San Francisco after he had a guys night in Fresno. In order to not have two cars, be a little green and add to the list of unique things that Miss G has done, we decided to take the train to the city by the bay.

There was a little girl on the train in front of us. She was five. Gia thought she hung the moon and even shared her stickers. Then she cried when we did not get off at the same stop. Such is life.

Ralph picked us up and we ate at Taylor's Refresher(which now has a new name...Gott's...I think), meandered around the Farmer's Market at the Ferry building and had dinner that night with Billy and Erica...none of which I have pictures of.

The following day was the annual St. Louis day at the Giants. Read: AB boys come to have fun at Pac Bell park. It was loads of fun. Julie (one of RT's buyers) was there with her daughter and again, G was in heaven. They both got new hats (RT is a sucker for little girls) and ate cotton candy, snow cones, peanuts, hot dogs, and I don't know what else before I cut her off. I was not looking forward to seeing that come back to haunt me.

...and this is what happens to a sweet three year old after a very fun filled weekend.

The smell of money.

2010-04-29T08:37:00.000-07:00

A snapshot into our home after giving Gia two one dollar bills for the bake sale:

Little three year old spinning around the room clutching two one dollar bills as if she has won the lottery.....

"I LOVE THE SMELL OF MONEY. LOVE IT. LOVE IT. LOVE IT."

A snapshot of Gia after arriving at the bank:

Skinny little fingers ferociously punching buttons on the ATM machine.....

"MOM, I hit the buttons. Where is my money? It usually doesn't take this long."

Oh my. Do we have a three year old Gordon Gekko on our hands?

Stop it Jenna.

2010-04-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

I am in control of my finances. I am in control of my finances.

Movies.

2010-04-23T12:34:00.000-07:00

Gia at the movie with her three d glasses and a mouth full of popcorn.

I love Sesame Street.

2010-04-21T10:26:00.000-07:00

Thirteen minutes.

2010-04-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

I have been following FLYlady for a few months now. I have to say sometimes I think it is a little hokey, but all in all it is sound, good advice. I have said it before and I will say it again, I keep a pretty clean house. But lately, my house has never been cleaner. And really it has never been easier.

So much so that I declined to have our housekeeper return. I know, CRAZY right. However, I did lobby for a ridiculous luxury gym membership in lieu of the housekeeper.

So this afternoon in thirteen minutes I:

-unloaded the dishwasher

-loaded the dishwasher

-folded a load of clothes

- put away a load of clothes

-wiped down my kitchen counter tops

-got the coffee pot ready for the morning

-made Gia's yogurt for the morning

-made Gia's lunch for tomorrow

-made a pot of tea

Now I am back at my desk working and enjoying my pot of tea. And my house is clean, and I get to go to that ridiculous luxury gym this afternoon. Hey, hokey or not the FLYlady has some great tips. You should check her out here.

****oh, and I LOVE Yogi tea because of the sayings (and the Peppermint is the most like fresh peppermint) and one of my tea labels says, "We are here to love each other, serve each other and uplift each other." Marla may not be a Yogi, but I really do think this is at her core.

Perks. No wifi. Cleansing breaths.

2010-04-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

I am a high strung gal. Let's face it. It is the way I am wired. That being said, that does not mean that I am not aware of this nor does it mean that I refuse to change. It simply means that my default reaction is guttural and includes over reacting.

One of the many perks of being married to my fantastic husband is having the pleasure of tagging along on business trips. Some are very, very boring (think Visallia, CA) others, are very, very cool (think on the water) but all include fun times with my man...and in my book that is a perk.

This weekend was one of the very, very cool times. I will blog more on that later. But right now I am sitting in the hotel lobby using their Wi-Fi. Why? Because they do not have it in the room.....say what!?!! The last time I checked it was 2010, right?

Now, I have a conference call from the hotel (beautiful) but lobby all the same. So instead of reverting to my knee jerk reaction of off the handle I am taking cleansing breaths. And consuming coffee. Slowly.

Easter at our house.

2010-04-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

Easter was full this year. We had Ralph's family in town and participated in three egg hunts, dyed loads of eggs, lots of plastic eggs, food spreads for three days....the works. Here it is in pictures. Hope that you had a good Easter too.

Hot pink polish.

2010-04-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

Somehow, having a hot pink manicure makes the fact that after cold, dreary, rainy weekend; on a day when my husband is off from work, that I am stuck inside working....a little bit better. Just a little bit.

Every time I look down at my hands I think, it is going to be ok. Spring is here and He has risen!

Toddler dialect.

2010-03-31T12:28:00.000-07:00

This makes me want to dive into a pool.

2010-03-31T09:22:00.000-07:00

This is just the cutest swim suit that I have seen in such a long time. It reminds me of the fluted ruffle swimsuits that I wore when I was a child. Bloomingdales.com may be getting an order from me in the very near future. I can not believe that it is Juicy Couture. I tend to shy away from that brand in fear of looking like I belong on an episode of Jersey Shore. But this one is right on the mark.

You are so right on Target.

2010-03-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

Hats are the ultimate accessory. They are an extension of your personality with amazing functionality. What other accessory out there truly makes your life easier AND makes you look sooo much better all at the same time?

Well, Eugenia Kim, who happened to win the 2004 council of fashion designers of america award for accessory design, who's pieces tend to start around $200 is coming to Target.

Blessed!

It has been done!

Attainable!

The Target line is a much more modest $20-$30 range. Even better!?!? The inspiration!?!? Drumroll please.....OLD CUBA. In Kim's words, "I was obsessed with the old school Latin think." Eugenia, can you come over for a cafecito? PLEASE. I heart you.

The line is so stinking cute that I am running to Target (maybe even literally) the minute they come out.

Oh, and Kim can't live with out Diet Coke. She has a three, 1.5 Liter habit....a day. Now I KNOW we are amigos.

Seriously, desperately in need of a creative director.

2010-03-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

I am a magazine junkie. Fanatic. Addict. I love magazines. There is something about the glossy pages gliding through my fingers. The short one liners and relatively short articles. It informs, entertains and leaves me wanting more.

I don't even know how many subscriptions I have. My mailbox is always full. Which always makes me smile. I read on average an entire magazine cover to cover daily. Sometimes two. It is what I do while Ralph is watching tv. What I do before bed. If I need an escape.

Due to the Internet and other factors the publishing industry has come into some trouble. No surprise. But seriously....look at these two covers. Appalling. Really makes me reconsider my subscription to Sacramento Magazine. Not to mention that on their "Best of..." list that the majority of winners happen to be chains.

Despicable.

Frustrating.

Zoo.

2010-03-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

We went to the zoo with my parents when we were in Houston. Gia is affectionately referred to as Monkeyface by those of us that are close. The Monkeyface had a blast. Between the elephants, the baby giraffes, the aquarium and yes, of course the monkeys she could not stop going. And going and going. The best part? This eleven dollar stroller was something that she actually wanted to sit in. I seriously had bad nagging thoughts about putting it in the back of my parents car and taking it on the plane with me. But it didn't fold. And I thought people might think something was up with the stroller that has Houston Zoo plastered on it. But I want one. My life would be much easier.

Thanks Mimi and Popa. You are always filled with fun times. We both love you to pieces!

Never fear, Sesame Street is not immune to the down economy.

2010-03-06T07:50:00.000-08:00

{Pretty sure this was the best day of her life.}

Sesame Street is the only TV Gia watches. I am confident that she finds exposure to other shows when at school, friends, grandparents and pretty much everywhere else. When she was two months old Ralph and I decided that a) she wouldn't watch TV until she was two (we made it to eighteen months) and b) that she would only watch Sesame Street.

This is really an illustration of picking your battles. Or just not really having an opinion. This was much more me than Ralph.

I chose this mainly because of my pediatrician. She was amazing. She had a daughter that was only a year older than Gia and I trusted her. I trusted her so much because when Gia was so sick she would call me at 8a on a Saturday and say, "I woke up at 2am and was thinking this is what it could be." Now that is a doctor. If you live in Ventura County, CA email me and I will give you her contact information. She is the best.

She let Mia (her daughter) watch one hour of tv a day and it was Sesame Street.

So, that was what I did. Because she always led me in the right direction and would have the "doctor" conversations with me and the "real mom" conversations with me.

I am extremely happy with our decision.

Gia never asks for things. Primarily because she is not exposed to any commercials. She knows so many letters and we have kept a consistent take over of our home with only Sesame Street.

(Side note: the whole princess thing drives me up the wall. CAN NOT STAND IT. Princess garb (Disney specifically) magically disappears in the T home.)

This morning Gia and I were watching Sesame Street (which was about princesses, weird) and the cute guy from Clueless Paul Rudd is the prince. Really it is showing that the girls are playing princess and do not need a prince to rescue them. Good.

Validation of my Sesame Street choice.

While in a pre coffee haze I noticed all of the FOR RENT signs littering Sesame Street. Then, I realized how they normally have extra people milling around to depict the hustle and bustle of the street the street was quiet. Only the girls and Paul Rudd (yum).

So I guess not even Sesame Street can escape this economy. Which makes me really sad.

McDonald's pulls out all the stops to make me fat.

2010-03-04T12:29:00.000-08:00

{This is a picture of Miss G from a field trip her school took to McDonald's. NO, I did not come up with the idea, YES, I was in attendance}

I am having second thoughts about writing this. I feel like I have been doing a lot of complaining lately, but I really, really, really am so frustrated with customer service today. In an economy where businesses should be thrilled that any consumer is choosing to spend their money in their establishment, why, why, why is it so hard to get some customer service.

I love McDonald's. Most would find this shameful. I have really come to grips with my love affair.

I love McDonald's so much that I crave the cheeseburger. The way the onions and the ketchup mix so lovingly (not that I can eat that these days due to my lack of milk/cheese intake) in my mouth. My brother in law talked about it at my wedding. I made Ralph eat it on our wedding night. If I have my way, I gorge on it after every marathon. It is gross. I know it is gross, but I love it. My heart is swelling thinking of my love for the golden arches.

I recently read that a Filet o Fish has a reasonable amount of calories. Especially when not smothered with tarter sauce and processed cheese....neither of which I am eating right now. AND, McDonald's has free wi-fi. What better place to get some much needed work done and entertain my darling three year old (not to mention pass my ridiculous obsession down to the next generation).

We get to McDonald's and play a while. We go potty. We head to the counter to order our lunch.

"Chicken McNugget Happy meal, w apples a milk and girl toy."

"and, a number eleven, no tarter sauce, no cheese. Small fry instead of medium."

Seriously, it may take me thirty minutes to order a plain coffee at Starbuck's but I have this McDonald's stuff down.

"We don't do that."

"Actually, you always give me a small fry instead of medium, no problem." (clearly this poor clerk is confused about my McDonald's expertise.)

We banter back and forth until he calls a manager.

Because he wants to charge me MORE for a small fry than the meal with the medium fry.

"That is ludicrous. Why would I pay more for a small fry than a medium?"

The manager (assistant, I think) confirms that she can not do this.

"Fine, just give me the meal."

"OK."

I pay and wait. Mind you this entire time I am trying to keep an eye on my purse, laptop and three year old running wild because she is in the part of the store that does not have a play structure and is not too happy about it.

I look at my receipt. HE CHARGED ME FOR THE SMALL FRY, MEDIUM DRINK and FILET 'O FISH. More than the stupid meal.

I am waiting so long that one of the gals asks why.

I just can't contain myself. I am so frustrated. I did not say or do anything, but steam must have been flying from my brain because suddenly the real manager appears.

"Is there a problem?"

I go through the whole thing.

"So basically, you want to pay for the meal and me to give you a small fry?"

"Yes." with an elated emotional sigh that makes me feel like FINALLY, someone understands me. Almost with the same satisfaction I get after having YEAR LONG discussions with my husband. Just to feel understood.

"OK."

And she refunds my $1.17.

My top two concerns with this entire scenario:

1. McDonald's really wants to make it hard for me to have any sort of portion control.

2. You have to be at senior manager level to have some common sense.

Peace of mind.

2010-03-02T15:12:00.000-08:00

In a world of uncertainty, there are so many ways to find things that do not give us peace of mind. Ridiculous news reports, horrible stories, banks and politicos that have nothing but self serving interest at heart. That being said, there are so many comforts that can be found through simplicity.

My child, my family, a hot steaming cup of coffee are all fantastic illustrations of simple moments that bring me peace of mind. No matter what, these things will be here no matter what the world around me dishes out.

But in the wee, still hours of the morning when my heart starts racing and I become overwhelmed by all of the things around that are out of my control I can scoot closer to my fantastic husband and repeat "Our Father" over and over in my head.

Something about the man that has forever changed my life and the sanctity of God and the repetitiveness of the words is sure to bring me peace and lull me back to sleep. And no matter how good, or how bad things get, these two will always be a constant and bring me peace of mind.