Our LOVE Story!

Everything I needed to know, I learned in kindergarten.

2010-09-19T17:29:00.003-06:00

We had several firsts on August 30th....

Mostly what I will remember is how I was BURSTING with pride that day

BECAUSE

I have 2 healthy beautiful, sweet, spunky little girlies.

It is so fun and exciting and bittersweet to send your children off to a new adventure and wonder how they'll do and worry about them.

Kindergarten is such a huge milestone...for parents.

I have realized that Gabbie "likes" school and probably always will and that she really is learning some life-long etiquette and rules, but that, to her, it means getting up early and following rules and no toy time.

This was Finley's first day in the Big Building at daycare.

She has been looking forward to it since June and she LOVES it.

Her behavior has improved (not that it was too bad) and she seems to have become a big kid.

Waking up on the "First Day".

GORGEOUS!!!

Blog-worthy Picture

Do you think I will remember to do this on the first day every year?

Summer Obsessions

2010-05-31T08:56:00.003-06:00

I think we can say summer is creeping its way into our lives....SLOWLY! The kids still have school for the rest of the week, but with an AWESOME family picnic at my parents' yesterday; it is beginning to feel like summer around here...even if the weather is a little behind.

I have a few obsessions each summer:

1. Sex & the City....I know, I know...the second movie out, so it seems that is the reason for this obsession, BUT, every year around this time, I seem to catch some of the re-run episodes (I can even watch the ones on TBS) and I love their clothes and all of the outings and it feels like summer to fantasize about living in Manhattan and wear strappy Monolo's and floral dresses. Anyone want to go with me????

2.Caprese Salad....Garden Gods, PLEASE let my basil and tomatoes grow this summer!!!!

3.Popsicles.

4. Zumba. I LOVE this! I think Stretch Studio has the BEST Zumba classes!!!

5 Blogs. This one, this one and this one!

I hope you all have some summer obsessions too!!!!!

Is anyone out there???????

2010-05-15T22:20:00.002-06:00

Well HELLO there....

How have you been?

I am not sure if anyone is out there (or ever was),but I am feeling like such a loser. I LOVE, LOVE to read the blogs I follow and I anxiously wait for updates and I get annoyed when people don't update them very often, (You know who you are.) and here I am 5 months from my last post. WHERE did this time go? WHERE?

Well, this is what we've been up to (the short version).

Jason is coaching Gabbie's soccer team. 8 little girls. He seems to be loving it. Gabbie has one game left and she has come out of an awkward shell and is really kicking some soccer but!!

GOOOOOO KITTENS!

Mother's Day was FAB. (If I do say so myself...)

I hosted a small brunch and it was an AWESOME day.

This is Great Grandma with 4 of her many great grandchildren.

The annual WAVI Banquet had a Vive Las Vegas theme this year.

Elvis is with us in this picture and we all had a great time.

LOVE!

I heart these people!

So, please don't write me off or take me off your blog list.

I have a new job with much better hours and I am going to (once again) commit to be better with this thing. Have a great weekend.

OK...This is the LAST holiday post!

2010-01-09T22:09:00.006-07:00

We are at the time of year when it is COLD, the snow that has fallen looks UGLY, all the Christmas lights are still up, because of the COLD, but no one turns them on and have I mentioned it's COLD!!! You know it's bad when you walk outside and think, "WOW! It is so nice out!" And it is 21 degrees. I did that today. SERIOUSLY!

On that note, I wanted to post my holiday pics that have already been posted on the lovely FB, but NEEDED to be on MY blog! Enjoy!

Me and My Girls, ringing in 2010.

Amy and Steph are great friends and we had a very nice NYE!

The 3rd Annual Timer Burrus Christmas Photo

The guys always groan a little, but it is so nice!
(I should have posted the one that clicked before I got there. SUPER funny,just like on TV and maybe next year's Christmas card.)

Santa was a VERY COOL SANTA this year, but the COLD has kept this bad boy inside.

FASHIONISTAS!
They beg me to wear these, but the COLD has not allowed it much.

Oh, the excitement.
Finley TOTALLY "got it" this year.

This toy, Honey, has been a total hit.

Santa's Treats

OMG!!!!

Come on ladies, don't you ALL remember this Barbie? It was Rocker Barbie! I had the whole band and I LOVED them! Check out this throw-back, too.

I enjoyed this gift more than Gabbie.

The girls got their special visit from St. Nick this year again.

Aren't they lucky?

This is Y and she is helping Fin celebrate her birthday by partaking in the ELMO cupcakes.

Mmmmmmm!

The only word I think of when I see this family is THRIVING!!!

Oh and awesome. :)

I just love how sweet and nervous Finley looks while we are singing Happy Birthday to her.

OK, that's it. The holiday are over and we only have 3 or 4 more months of winter, so I can't promise that I won't post about the COLD again.

OOOH PS If you liked the movie Julie & Julia (or fashion) checkout the blog called "New Dress a Day" on my blog list.

Should old acquaintance be forgot.......

2010-01-02T07:54:00.003-07:00

Happy New Year!

Doesn't it feel so FRESH and NEW?

I have heard so many bid 2009 good-bye without sadness. I think it was a tough year for many, but even so I look back at the good things of 2009.

As much as I hate the idea of a Resolution, I cannot help myself from wanting to start some new habits, like working out and eating better (CLASSIC) and potty training Fin or for Gabbie to start helping around the house (for an allowance of course).

How ever you are looking at 2010,I hope the future is BRIGHT(er).

Merry CHristmas to ALL...

2009-12-21T20:42:00.005-07:00

You did not think I could end the year without some Santa pics right??

I also added the random pictures from most of November.

It seems the busier we are, the less I blog and we have been pretty busy.

Check it out!

Gabrielle and Finley with Santa

2009

The Big Sister with Santa

(Finley wanted nothing to do with a picture alone with Santa)

One of my FAVORITE days this season.

Prairie Berry, limo, my best Girls and a FABULOUS DAY!!!!!

Thanks Kim, Steph, Angela, Amy N, Amy and Erin.

Jason's RESPEC Holiday Party.

Some of the Water & Natural Resources Dept.

Have a great 2010 guys!

Our annual pre-party photo.

Gabbie's first night "down on the floor" at gymnastics. She did so awesome.
It was a tough decision on whether to make the move, but now we are glad we did.

Gabbie and the Nutcracker at "The Nutcracker Ballet"
I was mesmerized, but Gabbie got a little bored.
It is mostly locals and I can't wait for the next one!!

Happy Birthday Jason!
We had an awesome dinner at "The Corn Exchange"

The Festival of Trees 2009
Grandma got stuck in this photo, but I think it is pretty cute.

Balance, Girl!

Gabbie and Jas at a Rush Hockey game.

Me and the girl, goofing around.

The game really was good.

Happy Birthday Finley!!!

2009-12-18T07:32:00.005-07:00

Today, 2 years ago, my Fin was born.

12.18.07

6:34am

7# 7oz

Her BIRTHday was very different from Gabbie's. Both Grandmas were in the delivery room, (I say that Jas & I gave them a gift that day). ;) We had LOTS of visitors. And having Gabrielle to share it with was AWESOME!

This is Hadley and Fin just last weekend. SO CUTE!

Finley's first visit to Reptile Gardens

March 2009

Evening with Santa 2008

Finley's second Christmas

Finley's first crawl
August 2008

Swinging!!!!

Tummy Time with Gabs
April 2008

Just so CUTE!

Merry Christmas Mama!!!

How could 2 years have gone by?

I am longing for those sweet, tiny baby days, but then I see her Independence blooming and am excited to see her grow.

Christmas...just around the corner.

2009-11-18T21:13:00.008-07:00

Well hello there.

Today I realized that my baby is 23 months old. ALMOST a 2 year old. Wow, where has the time gone? I have found myself getting caught up by the season, ( see last year's post) already. I am going to try to slow down a little this year and enjoy a few new things. As I have told some of you, I LOVE the hustle and bussel that goes along with this time of year, so I need to reset. We'll see how it goes....

I also work a stretch of 4 night shifts over Christmas weekend, so I am thinking that I would like to make the most of our Thanksgiving holiday family time.

We are going to take Gabbie to the Annual Nutcracker Ballet. It will be her first time and I am looking forward to that. I will probably spare Jason and invite the Grandmas.

I am feeling pretty darn BLESSED this year!

I know this picture is tiny, but most EVERYONE in America can identify this spot. I hope to take my children there someday! Isn't it beautiful?!?!?!

Ahhhh, doesn't that look cozy?

Oooohhhh, I DARE you to try this. Jas doesn't know yet, but this is what I have in mind for our tree. :)

The Adventures of Finley

2009-11-01T15:35:00.005-07:00

Finley seems to have turned into a big girl over the last few months. She copies EVERYTHING her sister does and says, yet she has a very different personality from Gabbie. I am already anxious to start her in some activities. Maybe gymnastics or swimming? We'll see.

Finley provides constant entertainment for us. Whether we are giggling about the cute thing she said or I am laughing to hide the frustration from one of her fits...it is all worth it.

Finley enjoyed some family time while carving pumpkins!

Well, she sort of enjoyed it. If she had it her way, she would have had the the knife in her own hands.

GO BIG RED!!!
We went to the Cobbler vs Raider football game on a chilly evening Finley did not seem to mind the cold and the Cobblers WON!

The pumpkin patch was fun for Fin this year, too. It was a beautiful day and she got to hang out with Brayden. He has become such a nice young man and Finley enjoyed his company.

Pumpkin Patch 2009

Finley's new friend, Y. Most of you have heard me talk/blog about this family.

They have settled in nicely and we are enjoying getting to know this special little girl.

Future Photographer?????

2009-10-16T14:27:00.005-06:00

...probably not.

Famous Soccer Star? FOR SURE!

Gabbie's first soccer game was so fun. I was impressed with her skill and Jason's coaching skill. I see quite the team in the future.

Running drills

These are shots Gabbie took while playing with my camera.
It is interesting to see through their eyes.
I can see that she is interested in what we keep in drawers and bathrooms?!

This bunch of dress up clothes has been worth HOURS of fun for the girls and their friends.

(And hours of clean-up time for mom & dad.)

Her piggy bank and Christmas snow globe

My mom and dad in 2000.

A Chuck-E-Cheese Portrait

2008

Our kitty, Dusty...he's camera shy.

Oooh, maybe she'll be an architect....?

Whatever she decides to be we LOVE her!

Last night we were all hanging out and Jason said, "Gabbie, when I was your age I had NO idea I would have a little girl like you." and I said, "Gabbie, when I was your age I KNEW I would have a little girl just like you!"

Happy Birthday Gabbie Girl!

2009-10-07T08:40:00.003-06:00

I CANNOT believe she is 5...it seems that it was just yesterday, we were bringing her home from the hospital and we were those awkward first-time parents. Somehow she survived despite us. She is nice, caring, sensitive, fashion forward and FUN!

WE LOVE YOU GABBIE GIRL!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Camera Download....

2009-10-01T08:01:00.007-06:00

Well, it has OFFICIALLY been OVER two months since an update and it has been almost that long since I have down loaded my camera. (Yes, I have a large SD card.) I also was not happy with some of the blogs that I added to my Blog List, so I have edited them, & I think you'll enjoy some I have added...I DO!

Here's what we've been up to.

Here's my Fin enjoying the horse at Chuc-E-Cheese.

(Yes, we go to CEC!)

Here are the birthday kids.
Gabbie shares a birthday with her cousin, Brayden, who turned 8.
In order to celebrate this special day, we try to go to dinner and to CEC for a smaller party with just family. This was the second annual 9/9 celebration and there is something so fun about seeing all the skeet ball spots taken by members of our family!

Fin...being SWEET!

Gabbie had a fall off of the swing set at my mom's house one day while I was working. My mom was so freaked out that when she called the ER to talk to me, she asked for me by my maiden name...it was a good laugh.
We had x-rays and Gabbie likely broke a small bone in her elbow. Kids are amazing, because if it was hurting, she took it easy and she only did what she could. It seems fine now.

I hosted a baby shower for our good friends that adopted from Ethiopia.

This was only 4 days before they left to get her. The shower was one that I had been looking forward to for a VERY long time.

Check out their story here.

This was Gabbie's first day of school...OK it was only pre-school, but it is at a public school and it is 4 afternoon's a week and it felt like the real deal to me!!!

She LOVES it and she does great with using the daycare van for transportation, if needed.

She's just my BIG girl!

SOOOOO SASSY!

We went to the local fair (much to my protest) and REALLY enjoyed it. It seemed a little cleaner this year. The kids had a blast and next year maybe we'll even get dad to go.

Finley had a little sugar high after this.

I could not believe Gabbie did this AND liked it.

Gabs & T-man at Reptile Gardens. We LOVE this place. The bird show is great!

More fair pics. Brayden got to help Keith the Magician. You'll get to hear more about Magic Keith later.

Grandma Diane with her hands FULL!

Fin and Hadley weren't as impressed with the magic???

On the lake trying out the paddle boats at Grandma's company picnic.

I Gabbie liked them.

This was our VERY LAST DAY @ the pool :( :(!!!!

We knew it was the last day and that made it a little bit more OK.

See you next year pool...sniff, sniff.

Summer celebrations with new & old friends!

This is the day our friends adoption became official.

We had a nice dinner and it was fun to see all the pieces of their lives come together to celebrate!

Another group of ladies, just hanging out :)

This was Gabbie's last Ballet dance camp for the summer.

The theme was "Royal Tea Party" with lessons on etiquette.

What an AMAZING gift this was....

My friend, Cody Lynn and her boyfriend Ryan, came to visit during their 17 day road trip from California.

She came to RC to be in my wedding and we had not seen each other in 4 years. We reconnected on Facebook and she added our home to her destination list!

THANK YOU FRIEND!

My Little Ballerina

2009-07-28T08:05:00.006-06:00

Gabbie has had the pleasure of participating in a few summer dance camp's through Prima Dance.

It's amazing to watch these little girls turn into Ballerinas once they get on the tights and shoes and get their hair done.

The Gang

Ella, Gabbie, Avery, Aspen

We gave our ballerina some flowers after her recital.
She LOVED them!

More fairies...

new leo + ballet shoes + "ballerina" hair = ATTITUDE!

Award Time

May Pole

What a cute little dance...

Baby Showers!!!

2009-07-27T08:19:00.004-06:00

Yes...I said SHOWERS! You know when people joke about "not drinking the water" in a work place because there are so many pregnant women...well, I think there is something to that in the ER this year. One of our nurses had THE New Year's baby this year and I think we are on schedule to have 13 babies born to our staff before the end of the year!

CRAZY!!!

Because of this baby boom, we have become pros at throwing baby showers. Mostly it's just good food, lots of chatting and baby holding, of course.

These are just a few of the pics from just a few of the parties.

Gabbie & Morgan

Which one is the Queen and which is the Princess?

Trista (due in Sept) and Renee (Brody, born in March)

This was Angela and Baby Chloe's shower in May.

These kids were so cute!

Kris (the hostess) and Angela (Chloe, born in April)

Steph & Amy
Pretty Girls
At Angela's Shower in May

Kris, Brandy & Baby Jackson
at Brandy's Shower in July

Laura (Max, born in July), Brooklyn, Brandy (Jackson, born in June)

Finley and Novalee

@ Trista's Shower in July

They played so nice!

The whole gang @ Trista's Shower.

Her baby girl is due in Sept.

Trista, practicing holding babies.

Alexandra, Finley, Keelin, Novalee, Gabriel, Jackson and Gabbie.

We have MORE baby showers to come, but we have a couple of Murses (Male Nurses) that will add to their families soon too, so no baby shower pictures from them.

This is enough to make a girl want another baby...

I Love Cooking!

2009-07-24T16:33:00.003-06:00

I have been looking at my blog and thinking it needs an update! I love checking my blog and keeping up with the blogs I follow, but my posting has been BAD! I have a TON of pictures of my family that follow along my current theme, but it takes a bit to organize those pics...so I decided I may start to post about food, recipes and things like that, as well.

I have added several food blogs to the blogs I follow, so check them out for a dinner idea and don't be offended if I publish/steal your recipe. It's only because I love it.

Teach him how to fish...

2009-06-04T15:27:00.005-06:00

Jason and Gabbie have had a few fishing trips this month. The first was VERY successful and the second took a little explaining.

This is Gabbie after explaining what "catch & release" means...it did not go over so well.

She just really wanted to bring a fish home.

This is one of Finley's ONLY still moments while we were fishing. She just wants to do EVERYTHING that big sis does.

I love the worms???!!!

The Big Catch

Now that is a HAPPY face. We actually ate these trout for dinner that very same night. Good job Gabs!

"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." Lao Tzu

Tourists on our "Stay"cation.

2009-05-19T14:40:00.008-06:00

I have tried to take advantage of every day that I am off from work. Sometimes the weather does not cooperate, but their are still a lot of things to do. (It's not like it's been blizzarding this month.) Being a native of Rapid City, I knew we had cool stuff around here, but now that I have kids, I am trying to see all of the fun that the Black Hills has to offer.

We will not be going on a BIG vacation this summer, but hope to pack in all the sights around here. We've done some things this week to get our tour started.

We planted a small (very small) herb garden with some tomatoes. I DO NOT have a green thumb, so I am relying on Gabbie to help keep this garden alive!

I really want to plant some tulips, peony bushes and dahlias this year!! If anyone has any suggestions or tips, PLEASE comment! I am gonna need all the help I can get.

OOPS! Gabbie got a little out of control with the hose. Sorry Fin.

I think Gabbie will survive! She had a little spill on her bike.
The first of many, I'm sure.

Gabbie is learning to ride the bike. It seems we are a bit behind, but Gabbie loves it! Our goal is training wheels off by her birthday in the fall.

Finley wants to ride a bike too!

Sorry Fin, that's a little big.

Gabbie had her "End of the Year Program" at school.

The pre-school program was great this year. They concentrated on ABC's & 123's.

These girls are her "best friends" and we enjoy watching them all grow.

ONE SHOT!

(is all this picture took!)

Good Job Gabrielle Amelia!

We visited Bear Country USA last week. It was a little COLD and REALLY windy, but it was fun. There were only a few other cars going through the park, so we really took our time.

Do you think the "DO NOT TOUCH" sign also means "DO NOT SIT"???!!!

The Buffalo

The Bear

Doesn't he look friendly?

The Reindeer

Our Mother's Day Brunch
Gabbie & Finley and Brayden & Hadley

The ER Kids at a baby shower
(and there are more to come!)

Finley at Reptile Gardens.

We love this place and they really give the locals a great deal! We will visit MANY TIMES!

One of the birds at Reptile Gardens. There large bird show starts this week.

Nana Betty, and us in the dome at Reptile Gardens.

The shy bald eagle and not-so shy Gabbie

We hope you are all having a fun Spring! I hope we can add many fun pictures to our Stay-cation album!

Big Little Brother!

2009-04-12T16:02:00.004-06:00

My little brother, Shelby, turns 30 tomorrow and we went to Deadwood to celebrate.

Food, family and fun!

Jason and Shelby were having fun at The Oyster Bar...YES...there were oyster shots involved!

Happy Birthday Shelby!!!!!!!!

HOPPY Easter!!!

2009-04-12T15:43:00.003-06:00

We hope you all are enjoying your Easter Sunday!

Gabbie, Jason & I dyed Easter eggs last Sunday.

I am so glad I started getting ready for Easter early, because of our busy schedule this week.

I also realized that the simple, no-gimmick dye kits are the easiest and the prettiest.

OOPS!!!!
We had only one sacrificed out of 1 & 1/2 dozen...not bad!

On a side note:

I added a couple of new blogs to my faves.

Check out "The Celebrity Juice".

It is a SHAMELESS obsession!

Swimming and Snow Drifts

2009-04-05T18:56:00.003-06:00

As many of you know, South Dakota has made major weather news several times in the past month. We had a really nice week in March and then on the 22nd we had a record breaking WARM day. It all went down hill after that and we are currently digging out of our 3rd BLIZZARD since.

Gabbie is finishing up her first sessions of swim lessons at the YMCA. She has done awesome and we will probably sign up for one session, since we OBVIOUSLY won't be going to any public pools for awhile.

Self Portrait

Gabbie and friends in the pool at the YMCA.

Gabbie trusting her instructor, Jamie.

Finley is enjoying the snow. She doesn't have the snow gear to go outside this year and neither does Mom, so I opened the patio door and let her have a little taste...LITERALLY!

Our driveway being abused by the neighborhood kids. Gabbie loves playing with her friends and it will be so much easier once the sun shines.

Sisterly Love

Sisterly Unlove

Cabin Fever

Jason and I are doing fine, as well. Lots of work, kids and repeat! We really feel blessed to have a healthy family and to also have jobs during this time. We have no big plans for summer yet. Some old friends are visiting in May and July, so that will be fun. I am DREAMING of SUN!

UPDATE! UPDATE! UPDATE!

2009-03-25T14:44:00.006-06:00

Well, it has been over a month since my last update, so little did she know that she named my post. :)

We have been pining over SPRING! It has teased a bit, but we all know that it is coming!

I am still loving Facebook and anyone that is not on it...NEEDS to be!

I found a new "Mom Blog". I just stumbled upon it, but I think I will be an avid follower, mostly because she has "Meal Planning Mondays".

We went to High School Musical on Ice with some of our friends. Avery's mom found these shirts so the girls would match and isn't this the cutest picture. I can't help but morph them into teenagers in my mind.

Avery, Aspen, Gabbie & Ella

Here are the BFF's!

Gabbie, Aspen and Ella have been going to daycare together for a long time. It is so nice when you can be friends with your kid's friend's parents. These 3 girls will probably not go to school together and it is already starting to make me a little sad.

I put this self pic in here because, sadly it is the ONLY pic I took last Friday at the Spirit of Peace Banquet for WAVI.

As many of you know I am on the SART Team (Sexual Assault Response Team) at the hospital. We depend on WAVI for many things and the banquet was very fun! WAVI is an amazing organization and I am proud to support them. Plus, it is always FUN to get dressed up!

Lastly, my little Fin's personality has emerged.
Likes:
Food
Food
Food
rough housing
animals

Dislikes:
people in her "bubble"
authority
Gabbie's turn to get her hair fixed by mom

Blah, Blah Blah..

2009-02-10T07:48:00.003-07:00

This is how I feel about my blogger skills lately...

I have to admit that I have been on Facebook A LOT! It is just so easy!

I have also not been getting the camera out a lot.

BUT

We have been doing some fun stuff!

We try to stay busy this time of year or I go crazy!

I have a few new favorite blogs Check them out here & here.

They post several times a day so there is always a quick little read (or look). I have found a few really cute little things on them.

I went on a movie spree this week. I saw this. It was SUPER CUTE and girly, yet realistic. I think they made a nice connection with the Sex & The City episode. THANKS Greg Behrendt!

I also finally saw this! It was in the cheep seat movie theater (which I love) and it was so good. I don't think people should go without reading the book, but I loved it and can't wait for the next one!

I also cannot wait for this one. Oh, I am so pathetic, but she's cute and funny! Gabs will like it too. I actually have the opening day marked in my calender (4/10/09).

So, as I said, I am in a blog slump, which you can see by the post, but we aren't in a slump. Life is BUSY!

January 20th...

2009-01-19T11:51:00.003-07:00

My Thoughts:

EXCITED

ANXIOUS

HOPE

CHANGE

DIFFERENCE

FUTURE

I just cannot let the day pass without posting about this historic event. The obvious reason for the hype is very cool, but I just feel like people are EXCITED for so many reasons!

Christmas Pictures!

2009-01-09T07:35:00.005-07:00

I am just not ready for the holidays to be over.

Remember my post about all the stress?...Well, I am ready for that to be over, but this time of year seems gloomy to me.

COLD, GRAY, DARK...YUCK!

So, I am gonna FINALLY post some Christmas photos, just so I can relive the holidays.

All the stress was worth it. It was the best Christmas ever!

Princess Gabrielle at her finest.

Amy at Legacy always gets the shot!

Sweet, sweet Finley!

Gabbie is becoming a ROCK STAR!
Funny Story:
Jas & I both bought Guitar Hero for each other.
I think it was a gift for himself, but it is fun!

Tutorial?!?

This was Fin's present from Santa.

This is the exact scene "Santa" pictured when he brought the kitchen to our house.

The Burrus Family

Davin, Shelby Jr, Diane, Shelby Sr, Jason, Sonja

Brayden (7), Hadley (8 mos), Finley (1), Gabbie (4)

OK Cute Gabs, but check out Jason's face..."What am I going to do with her when she is 16?!"

"Hello!"

Barbie has a mansion.

Christmas Eve with Nanna. So fun!

We have sort of started a tradition to cooksomething new for our dinner.

We have had a few FAILURES (gnocci, lamb), but we always have fun!

Teenage Vampire Love Story (& spoiled ending)

2009-01-04T20:25:00.004-07:00

I am reading this series.

Let's be honest...WHO'S NOT?!?!

I may be one of few that is not ashamed of it.

I LOVE THESE BOOKS!

I love that they are teenagers and that it isn't smut (don't get me wrong, sometimes there's a place for smut).

I am on book three and I was on amazon.com and decided to read the reviews of book four

BIG HUGE MISTAKE!!!

Four things happen in book four and the first review I read, spoiled them all!

Oh well, I'll keep reading.

We all wish there was a little Edward in our husbands.

First Things First...

2008-12-26T13:21:00.003-07:00

I have been blogging about Fin's birthday for awhile.

She is ONE!!!!!

Time has flown by. Finley is sassy and devilish, which is totally different from Gabbie, but we love it! She starting acting older the day after her party. She loves her new toys and plays so nicely with them.

This is Fin's own little cake! Her party theme was very "SUMMER-Y"...Lady bugs, butterflies and bumble bees. The red frosting actually came out of her clothes!

(PS Piece of Cake made the cake. It tasted good and looked cute but they NEED to get organized!! Don't count on them to get you order correct!)

After the cake, came the presents. Finley is not timid. It was good practice for Christmas morning.

We had a small party, but the kids had fun and look how cute they are!

CLASSIC!

My baby is growing...

I also have to give a mention to all of you that have holiday birthdays...It sucks!

I will always try to make Finley's birthday a SEPARATE event, so I hope she does not resent it.

CHEESE!!

2008-12-14T08:00:00.006-07:00

We went to see Amy, over at Legacy Photo and Design. We had a laid back family photo session. There is something about the camera that brings out the craziness in Gabbie, but Amy always pulls through with some great pics. Check out the sneak peek here.

The Holiday Season

2008-12-10T09:37:00.008-07:00

These are the BIG TICKET items that we are asking Santa for this year. Can you guess who wants what? :) I think mom will be the only naughty girl, because that picture DOES NOT mean that I want to clean the house for Christmas, but I think I will be doing just that.

This item is actually in our basement right now. He is "just trialling it."

This is sooo cute!

Barbie MUST have 3 stories!!!!

As the countdown to Christmas gets serious, I have started to FREAK out a little.

Birthday party, Christmas program, Christmas dresses, Christmas pictures, Christmas cookies, Christmas decorations, Christmas tree, Christmas presents and the list goes on and on.

I have always had a theory about starting all of this early (like in the summer): I think that if I started that early, I would still continue to shop, decorate and plan up to the 25th, which does not mean less stress or less cost. I also really love "The Spirit" of the holidays. I like to shop with the Christmas music up above. I feel like I get more creative as the days in December go by.

After saying all of that...I am going to try to plan for next year starting December 26th. I am not sure what has changed this year to make me feel a little more stressed. I have added more stuff to our family commitments, but I am not willing to let anything go. I guess you can say...I WANT IT ALL!!!

This post is not meant to be negative. I really love the holidays and the girls have brought a whole new level of anticipation. If you can relate to this at all, I hope you have time to ENJOY a few of your own things this season!

Here are a few of the things we've been up to.

Gabbie and Finley's childcare center have a Christmas program every year. The kids get all dressed up and the older ones sing. They sit with Santa and play a few games. It has become a tradition! (Fin was not crazy about the big guy in red.)

This is the first of 4 Christmas functions for Jason's company.

Gabbie's class went to the public library for a field trip. She's getting so big!

Gabbie had her second gymnastics awards night. She really enjoys this activity and she got her balance beam award. PRESENT!

Halloween & Jason's Deer

2008-11-25T10:02:00.005-07:00

We had an awesome Halloween. I really think it is one of my favorite holidays. It has even become sort of it's own season. We had such amazing weather this year. I have so many fun ideas for next year if the weather is as nice...it will probably BLIZZARD!! ;)

My 2 Tinkerbells with Great Grandma.

OOHHH Gabs!?!?

!!!!!!!!!!!!!

BOO

Our Peter Pan Theme...I will keep a family theme going every year for as long as I can. Next year...Alice in Wonderland?

Isn't she lovely?

We had a pumpkin carving party at Grandma and Grandpa's. I think they turned out pretty good. Brayden & Gabbie had a great time.

Just a fun shot of my peanut. Fin has had a rough couple of weeks with a flu bug. We have gone through lots of pedia-lyte, diapers and balmex, but I think we are getting over it.

Well, I warned you all that these pics were coming.

Jas got his Hills Archery Buck and it is a nice one.

GOOD JOB!!

What's with the tongue?

Finley Elisa

2008-11-08T20:17:00.004-07:00

Well, it is Fin's turn to SHINE, and she does, every DAY!

The video is of Finley, just being herself and there is a little walking, too. She is almost ONE. I CANNOT believe it. That also means Christmas is coming. I always say we are so busy, but we keep getting busier. Just when I don't think we can add another thing to our day, we usually fit it in. Finley has been such a good baby and she is getting quite an attitude now. I wonder where this year has gone? I can still remember her in my belly. Just reflecting and rambling. Thanks for reading! Enjoy some baby giggles.

Other good news!!!! Jas shot a buck! YEAH on SOOOO many levels! I will post some pics soon, so you have all been warned!

Disney Magic (Part II)

2008-11-02T20:37:00.006-07:00

This is the final installment of our Disney memories and it already seems so far away :( I will apologize now for the randomness of these pictures. I really need to refine my blogger skills.

I had to lead with a pic of Fin. She is so sweet and has been left off of my blog, because of the subject matter. She is walking... not always, but mostly on her own. It isn't as stressful as when Gabbie walked? This pic is from our day at the pumpkin patch and it has been one of very few that required some winter gear, but doesn't she look cute!

This is our little "Tinker Bell" exhausted! The day Gabs had her makeover was a big one.

This was Gabbie's Fairy God Mother, Maye. See the one piece of hair stinking straight up...the FGM's have quite a sense of humor. The stuff they use on their hair is interesting, but it works every time.

THE REVEAL!!!

This was the night we celebrated Halloween at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. They decorate Magic Kingdom and have a Villain Parade and lights. It was really amazing how different the park looked. Our glasses are for the 3D movie we were about to see. It was probably our favorite thing. It's fun to hear Gabs talk about it. Ask her.

"I feel like someone is watching us?!?!"

This was a magic moment for all of us! We had a breakfast at the Tusker House in Africa in Animal Kingdom. Donald and friends joined us in appropriate attire for the safari!

We miss you Mickey!!!

MY FAVORITE CHARACTER!!!!

I will say Goofy is one tall, dark & handsome dog.

Can you tell who Gabbie liked? She says, "Mom, look at her beautiful eyes!"

As I roll mine.

Our WONDERFUL Host!

Again, our food was GREAT!

Thanks Donald.

A fun view of Italy in Epcot.

In Chicago O'Hare on the way home.

SOOOO SAD!

Hollywood Tower of Terror

The one BIG ride I REALLY wanted to go on. It did not happen.

NEXT TIME FOR SURE!!

One of the characters in the SpectroMagic Parade of Lights.

There were plenty of Oooooh & AAHHHS!

This was one of MANY figures at our hotel. They are HUGE! It was very fun for kids.

Can you see Gabbie?

And last...our first Henna tattoos. I think I need another.

So, there you have it. We would like to go back in October 2012. Wanna join us?

Disney MAGIC!!!!!

2008-10-22T07:53:00.005-06:00

Well, we've been home from Disney World for over a week and I am still coming down from the high! I want to start by saying that EVERY business and EVERY person could take a lesson from the outstanding customer service we received while staying in Orlando! Every single "cast member" was pleasant and always addressed Gabbie. We stayed at an All-Star Resort and I was so glad we decided to stay in the park. There are so many little extras when you stay in the park. We dropped our luggage off at the airport in RC and did not see it again until it was in our room. (We had already been shopping!) Our vacation anxiety melted away when we got on the airplane. The weather was HOT...in the 80's EVERY day with humidity. I heard it snowed here while we were gone:) !! We did leave Fin in RC and we missed her, but we CANNOT wait to take her back! Lookout Disney the Love's will be back in October 2012!

Here are some of our favorite pics. I think this is the first of a few Disney posts ;)

We had dinner with the Princesses in Norway at Epcot. Sleeping Beauty was a BIG star that week because of the re-release of the DVD! Aroura was very sweet to Gabbie. Look at that face! Can you understand why my happy tears flowed so easily? PS Dinner was great too!

Princess Jasmine was my favorite (& I think Jas liked her too...). She was stunningly beautiful. I think Gabbie was in awe!

Princess Ariel was sort of silly..she called Gabs a Starfish and I don't think Gabbie will ever forget it!

Well, Cinderella's appearance at this dinner was quite a surprise. Cinderella hosts her own dinner in Magic Kingdom, and when I made these reservations the women made it very clear that "Cinderella will probably not be at this dinner." Things must have been slow that night at the Royal Table ;)

These were some of Gabbie's Fairy Godmother's at the Bippity Boppity Boutique. Gabbie had a Princess (or Fairy) Makeover. It was one of the most memorable days! Again, the happy tears flowed freely! PS I want that job when I retire!! I will post a makeover page soon.

This was Day #1 at Magic Kingdom. We were watching a show at the Castle. The smile on Gabbie's face says it ALL!

This was also day #1. Gabbie spotted Mary Poppins from a mile away and Gabbie LOVED her umbrella. Dreams really come true at DW!

We indulged in some fun things. Gabbie got her face painted. She got her hair braided and we both got henna tattoos. The face painting is free hand and it looked so good! Of course she chose the Tinkerbell!

OOOOHHHHH! EPCOT! I was so impressed with the "big golf ball" at Epcot. I took lots of pics of it.

This was the way our Princess Dinner started. Belle posed for picture after picture, as did our little Princess throughout the week. I think I will leave you with these pics and show you some more later!

You know that commercial when the mom and daughter get on a ride and then the mom turns into a kid...that was me!

TAGGED!!!

2008-10-17T08:00:00.004-06:00

Hello all...I was tagged TWICE while on vacation, so I am going to catch up, but I am only going to write seven things. (I am sure you are all glad.)

I was tagged by Amy & Kendra. THANKS GIRLS!!

1. No secret...I drive a mini-van. The crazy thing is that I have loved them since high school!

2. I went to 5 colleges for a total of seven years to get my Bachelors Degree in Nursing. YIKES!

3. When Jas & I moved to CA. We lived in a studio apartment without couches and our TV was the kind without a remote control! It took us 3 months to get couches.

4. I worked in the restaurant business for 8 years and I have considered going back. Buca di Beppo, here I come.

5. I am one of those people that will always answer surveys and I call or write businesses when I am extremely happy or upset with their service.

6. I am addicted to reality TV. I LOVE IT ALL. Shameless, I know, but this explains the next one.

7. My house is messy. Not dirty, just messy and cluttered.

Well, there you go. Now for the great news....I am tagging these lovely folks. If you see your name, you know what to do.

OH! I am calling NO TAG BACKS!!

Orlando...HERE COME THE LOVE'S!

2008-10-06T14:17:00.003-06:00

I know...It's been awhile, so I figured I had better post before we leave for DW! We have been pretty busy and I have not been taking many photos, hence the vaca from posting.

Gabs is liking the pre-school portion of daycare and Fin is moving up to the Tiggers Room at daycare. She will now get to go outside, and do art projects, but she is losing her morning nap time, which makes me sad.

Here is one photo from our August session @ Legacy Photo & Design. Amy is AWESOME! We finally had to make some decisions and order our pics. This one is still one of my faves!

This is my new digi!!! It was a birthday present for myself/family from myself/family! I had convinced myself we needed a new one for our trip. It is a touchscreen and it is a 10 mega-pixel. (I did not even know they made them?!) Just prepare for MANY MANY pics from DW!

I just had to throw this in. DW is HUGE! Maybe we will come back skinnier from all the walking. Wouldn't that be a perfect world!

Happy 4th Birhday Gabbie-Girl!

2008-09-11T08:37:00.003-06:00

We had Gabbie's 4th birthday party at Just Jymnastics. Gabbie goes to class there once a week and we thought it would be fun for ALL the kids.

Gabbie decided on a Tinkerbell theme and her little flower girl dress worked perfectly.

Another family pic: Imperfection, but pretty cute and Gabbie looks so happy!

Just has a 50 foot trampoline in the floor that ends in a foam block pit. These two things were very popular!!! The kids were exhausted after one hour of play:)! You're welcome parents.

The ice cream cake was a hit and the kids were so good! Look how nicely they sat and ate.

It was very nice to have this party outside of our home. We had SO much fun and thank all of you that came!

All I can say is...WHEW!

2008-09-01T21:04:00.005-06:00

J's bro got married to a his long-time girlfriend over the holiday weekend. They had a lot of very unique elements to their wedding and the end result was beautiful. We stayed in these huge, hotel-like cabins and the weather was AMAZING! (That is my kind of camping.) The girls were SOOO good. I was so proud of what a big girl G was.

My only request was that we get ONE family photo, since we were all dressed. All I can say is that I am VERY disappointed with the end result. This was the best we could do. I think that with the beautiful surrounding and all the HARD work, we could have slowed down and gotten a better shot. OH WELL!

This was G's debut as a flower girl. There were 3 of them and they did GREAT! The bride's mother made the dresses and they looked like woodland fairies, which fit perfect with the theme.

This is the entire wedding party in the heat of the moment. It's official...another female has been added to the Love Family:)

Whew...we made it through the weekend. I told J that I am praying that our girls hire a wedding planner when the time comes. Weddings are a lot of work and this one was worth it.

Well, I made a drastic change to my appearance this weekend...

Wait..

TAA DAAA!

What do you think? My stylist flat-ironed it for me, so don't expect it to look like this ever again, but it is fun!

Splish Splash!!

2008-08-21T21:05:00.006-06:00

Well, here it is the end of summer and we are getting out the slip-n-slide for the first time. We have a had a few AWESOME days in the neighborhood, but it is bittersweet knowing that these days will all too soon come to an end. I feel like G aged about 5 years as she was "hangin' out" with some of the neighbor girls. I do have to say that she is not yet too cool to blow me a kiss every now and then :)

J and G are testing the slip-n-slide out on Tuesday evening!

I think it is workin'! (The girls suits are a big bonus for speed.)

Oh to be 3 again! This pic just brings me pure joy!

So notice the difference in the grass. This is day #3 of slip-n-slide. I have assured J that the grass will be OK! Hey maybe we can hold off mowing for a couple days.

This pic also brings me joy for a different reason! F was diagnosed with Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease on Monday (It is not as serious as it sounds: just a virus, but it causes high fevers, sores in the mouth and rash to the hands and feet.) Poor F has a had a rough week, but this photo shows a smile (YEAH!! A glimpse of her old self) & if you can't tell she has a messy food face, which means she's eating!!!!!!

And FINALLY, our good friend T decided to brave the S&S today! What a great time was had by all!

With a moo moo here, and a moo moo there...

2008-08-20T06:54:00.003-06:00

G's school went to a local petting zoo and I got to drive. G was more excited about having other kids in our new car than going to the park.:) I think a good time was had by all even though it was a little cold.

I LOVE this PIC! One of the other little girls suggested this photo op and I am so glad she did. G's teacher plays the mother hen.

These girls were sick of smiling. This works too!

SOOO Cute!!

PS Some of our good friends got some awesome news last week. Check out Love Will Bind Us BLOG.

2008 Summer Olympics

2008-08-13T22:47:00.003-06:00

We are really getting into the Olympics and can you help LOVING little Shawn Johnson?

G had her Just Jymnastics Olympics tonight and I could not help noticing a little resemblance?!!?

We hope you are all cheering on the USA and I think we should all remember that a silver medal is pretty darn good!

The Birthday Tour Begins

2008-08-10T19:08:00.007-06:00

The Rally always brings a very busy time for us. Not just the obvious of more fun, more work and more craziness, but it also marks the beginning of our fall birthday tour. It seems like most of the kids and some of the adults we hang out with celebrate birthdays around this time. We had two "3rd Birthday" parties this weekend and we threw in a baptism, too.

Picture #1: T's 3rd Birthday Party at the park. His mom had homemade cupcakes and as you can see...the kids LOVED them.

Picture #2: H's Baptism. He is my nephew. This is a family photo with Pastor Bruce. I am lucky enough to be the Godmother to B & H! I LOVE you guys!

Picture #3: M's 3rd Princess Birthday. (She's the one in the middle.) These girls are enjoying their party favors!

Let the tour begin!

MOVING!!!!!

2008-08-04T07:46:00.006-06:00

Well...one of us is...F is CRAWLING! When I got home from work on Friday, she was a pro. Start the baby-proofing. G's room is one big choking hazard, so she'll have to say GOOD-BYE to the Barbie shoes.

Their is a new little sparkle in her eye! AAHHHHH FREEDOM!

PS The Girls are FINALLY having professional photos taken today @ Legacy Photo & Design. Check out her blog in my "friends" section. She usually posts a few from each session.

Officially a Soccer Mom, Part II

2008-07-30T08:01:00.006-06:00

Well, I picked up the Oddey last night after work. (I must say that switching over car seats, and all the necessities, with 2 kids in 90 degree weather, was NOT easy.) I LOVE IT!! It has some bells & whistles that I need to figure out, but it will be fun.

The big news is that...I managed to put some pretty good scratches on it within the first hour of driving. After the switch, I ran home and, out of habit, closed the garage once we pulled in, well the Oddey doesn't quite fit. It scraped down the back. It's not too bad, but it really rained on my parade. I just had to share with EVERYONE, since I will NEVER live it down:)

Officially a Soccer Mom...

2008-07-28T22:34:00.005-06:00

We are the proud owners of a new (to us) Honda Oddessey. Yes, it's a minivan!

The way people react when you tell them that, is really funny. You either love'em or hate'em. Well, I think we are going to love it! I have not actually driven it yet, I have been very patient and I am picking it up tomorrow! Sooooo, although neither of my children play soccer yet, I will proudly wear the badge of "Soccer Mom". (Anyone know where I can get a bumper sticker?)

GOOD-BYE JEEP, HELLO ODDEY!

Happiest 6 years EVER!

2008-07-27T22:06:00.004-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Anniversary

Six years ago TODAY, Jason & I walked down the aisle. We celebrated last night at Del Monico Grill. It was a kid-free night, but all we talked about were our AMAZING girls! We tried to remember our newlywed days, but it seems so long ago. Our girls have brought out the best of who we are and we are so lucky. We hope that everyone had a great weekend!

Four Concerts & a Wedding

2008-07-25T12:53:00.003-06:00

We had a fun/busy weekend!

One of my friends from work got married in Spearfish Canyon on Saturday. It was a gorgeous wedding and a beautiful day. It was fun to see some folks ALL DRESSED UP!!

We also were able to go to the Hills Alive Concert. I have lived here my whole life and have NEVER gone?! It is awesome and the weather could not have been better.

These are some fellow nurses. G was in heaven around all the "princesses".

Where's F? She had a slumber party with Nanny, but we still had fun at the wedding!

G and A enjoying some music.

There's F. As happy as ever. We are so blessed!

Not a MOMENT wasted.

2008-07-19T07:59:00.003-06:00

I hope that when I look back at this summer I can say that "not a moment was wasted." I have found myself a little run down lately and discouraged about not getting some housework done, BUT we are really having a fun summer.

F is getting SO big. This is one of my FAVORITE pics. AARGH! I just want to squeeze her.

G is as SASSY as ever. I always wanted to have a family, but I NEVER realized how much fun it would be to just hang out with my kids. G is such a conversationalist, she my little best friend!

Never too young to have girlfriends..N, G & M were all dancin' the night away at a wedding. I would love to see these 3 girls hanging out together in 10 years!

ALL SMILES!! It's wierd, J and I are having a very fun summer, but we feel like we don't get to spend much time TOGETHER? (Even if we are in the same place.) Can anyone relate? Well we are both just happy to share a meal with each other and that's what we got to do here!:)

We hope everyone is having a CRAZY, FUN, BUSY summer!

Catching Up...

2008-07-14T10:56:00.003-06:00

Hello Everyone,
I am catching up. When I started this blog, my goal was to BLOG once a month, but then it was SOOO easy that I did it more. Well, summer has been CRAZY, so I hope to gets some of the fun pics that we've been taking up an our space.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Our Girls

2008-06-12T13:43:00.005-06:00

Our Girls

Finlay E is loving all of Gabbie's old toys, including the bouncer. She is pretty easy to please most of the time and her morning nap and bedtime are like clockwork! Who knew kids liked a schedule :)

Gabbie thinks she is a rock star. I hope to keep these videos of her to show her high school sweetheart someday. (Who knows...maybe E! Channel will request them someday.)

Enjoy the videos. (Sorry about Gabbie's horizontal view. I'll figure out how to fix it someday.)

Being Adults

2008-06-09T15:04:00.003-06:00

Jason & I had a few opportunities to be adults this week. This photo was taken just before the WAVI Banquet (Working Against Violence, Inc.). I was on the decorating committee and Jas & I enjoyed a nice dinner and music by the Jeni Fleming Trio. It was nice to be dressed up and have a night out.

On Wednesday, we had our Sex & the City: the Movie Party. Dressed and ready...it was so fun and the movie DID NOT disappoint! I can't wait to see it again! (More pics to follow.)

We also got to watch Jas play softball on Sunday. The team is pretty good and Finley & Gabbie are REALLY good cheerleaders.

Swinging

2008-06-03T07:43:00.004-06:00

Here are my girls, enjoying their swing set. Finley got her first taste of swinging this week while Gabbie is learning to "pump" herself. (That is actually a LONG process.) Gabbie will be impossible to keep inside as the weather gets nicer and I see many days in our future playing on the swings.

Gabbie moved to a new classroom at school and started a "summer camp" in her new room. Looking at their schedule, they will have water play days, park days and even a few field trips. The funny thing is that when I showed Jas the schedule he wondered how much it will cost. Believe it or not, it is included in our daycare cost already. What a nice surprise!

Well, as May wrapped up, so did Jason's travels (for now) and we said good-bye to Daisy May...We made a HUGE mistake with the timing of our adoption of this little puppy. The amount of attention and work that was needed for her was above and beyond what we could provide. :( Daisy went to an awesome family in Pierre with 2 girls and a Great Dane. We have received word that she is doing awesome. LESSON LEARNED!

Instead

2008-05-26T20:52:00.007-06:00

Instead of camping this weekend we...were just a family.

Jas got layed over in Denver Friday night because of the fog here in Rapid and ended up renting a car and driving home (which I was NOT thrilled about). He got home safely @ about 8:30am Saturday. We went to the old, new Casa for Mexican with some friends Saturday night with the kids. The kids kept it interesting, as always.

We went to church and the mall on Sunday morning and then went to the pool with the Burrus'. Finley got her first dip in the pool and did not like it very much, but she looked cute! It was VERY NICE to see all of my Dad's siblings and a lot of my cousins and their kids. With 8 kids in my dad's family...you can only imagine all the kids running around.

We hope you all had a nice weekend, too.

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

2008-05-24T17:10:00.002-06:00

Summer, where are you?!?!

2008-05-24T16:58:00.004-06:00

We had a glimpse of summer last weekend and we went fishing, but it is rainy and yucky for the holiday :( We had plans to go camping, but we are taking a "rain" check.

This is our life.

2008-05-22T11:43:00.009-06:00

Gabbie

Gabbie is READY for summer. She is starting gymnastics @ Just Jymnastics soon and we CAN'T wait. She is also "moving up" to the pre-school rooms at school, so she'll be learning all about big kid stuff. We are hoping the weather will come around enough for us to camp this weekend.

Finley

Baby girl has graduated to her first solid food, RICE CEREAL! She loves it and she is messy @ it:)! She is still sleeping very well and we enjoy her sunny disposition.

Hawaii
Jason has been home from PARADISE for almost 1 week, but is in Albuquerque for more business. His trip to Hawaii was great. He actually did get some work done, but came home with a sunburn, so it wasn't all BAD!! :) Actually, they swam, snorkeled and even shopped (the Holy Trinity of S's). It was nice to have him home this week. The girls & I missed him very much!

Cavechildren :)

2008-05-08T08:31:00.003-06:00

Jason and his brother Curt, along with some friends went climbing last week. The kids weren't as interested in being on top of the rock as they were with the "caves".

This is Eli, Owen and Gabbie doing their best impression of cavemen.

Daisy May...

2008-05-06T22:25:00.007-06:00

Well...Jas left for Pierre today and it marks the beginning of our CRAZY May. Jas has 3 business trips to include 11 full days this month. It doesn't sound like a lot, but with our new puppy, Daisy, it already seems like a lifetime. :)

Daisy is a Golden Ret-Springer Spaniel mix and she is about 10 weeks old. She is GOING to be a GREAT dog for our family, but I just need to be reminded of it often. Please share any funny puppy stories as it may help me smile about our newest addition.

Fin & Gabbie are doing great and looking forward to spring and summer! Here is a little clip of some Finley giggles. There is nothing better than a baby's laugh!

In Like a Lion...

2008-05-05T07:33:00.005-06:00

I know that March is supposed to come in like a Lion or Lamb, but that is exactly how our weekend was here in RC. It came in like a Lion and out like a Lamb.
We had a REAL blizzard on Friday. The snow was measured in feet instead of inches and Jason kept himself out of the office. We made soup and watched movies all day. It was actually nice!
On Saturday, the sun came out and it was BEAUtiful. We ended up packing the weekend full of fun things! The circus, a wedding reception and even a little time outside!
My picture really has nothing to do with our weekend, other than how lucky we feel to have two gorgeous, healthy daughters. We went to Applebee's on Sunday for lunch and of course Gabbie made friends with the 20-something girl sitting at the next table and attempted to entertain them the entire meal. We finally reeled Gabbie in and made her eat, when the family got up to leave the nice girl said good-bye and then her father came back to our table. He put his hand on Jason's shoulder and said, "I have 4 daughters...It is totally do-able. It takes a STRONG man to live in a house full of women." We had a good laugh and Jas took a little sigh of relief. Have a good day!!!!

In a Nutshell...

2008-05-02T21:12:00.005-06:00

Jason & I met at SDSM&T in Rapid City in 1997. Jason had just started his Master's and I was taking my prerequisites for nursing school. We continued dating and when Jas finished his Master's in Dec 1998, he found a job in The Bay Area, CA. I stuck it out at SDSU Nursing in RC, but caved a year later and joined him in CA in March 2000. We were engaged 10/3/01 (my 25th birthday). We were married in RC on 7/27/02 in a very nice ceremony with all of friends and family. We had our first daughter, Gabriellle Amelia on 9/9/04 & moved home just before she turned one in July 2005. We had our second daughter, Finley Elisa on 12/18/07 at RCRH. It has been an amazing 10 years with the man I love. That is our life, in a nutshell and we are looking forward to sharing our past, present & future in "Our Love Story".