Tag: Family

Yellowstone! Its Pretty Much A Given…

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Yup, its Summer (not that that matters), we are in Montana, and there is time, so guess what? We took a day trip to Yellowstone! Yeah, its pretty much a given that if we have the means and opportunity, we will take a trip. So blessed that my parents live close enough to take just a day trip to my favorite place on earth!

The day in the park was perfect, a little warm but what can you expect for August! Grandpa let the girls use his binoculars and they were really excited about it. They became our animal scouts for the day!  I worried that constantly looking through them as we drove along might result in the need for some car sick bags.

We started our trip as we usually do, heading out to the Lamar Valley area. Summer time allows for us to go a few extra places within the park, one of which is a favorite along the Blacktail Plateau. Its a nice spot off of the beaten path where you can sometimes see bear, wolves, eagles, hawks, marmots and more. Most of the drive produced a lot of dust on the dry dirt road, a prairie falcon watching us from his rock perch and some pretty wildflowers in the open fields. We had made our way through most of the drive without seeing anything and then, there he was!

A very small group of people had stopped just off of the road near an open field. We were stuck behind a small hill but got out of the car to see what was going on. Just as we made it to the top of the little hill we saw the big bull moose, sauntering across the field. He was less then fifty yards away but well within a safe a difference from us. It has been a long time since we have seen a bull moose and this close too! He seemed content with us nearby and just went about his business walking through the field and up into the trees. We hopped into the car and drove further up the road to a pull out near petrified tree. From there we pulled out our binoculars and watched the moose head to a small meadow. He took his time there, eating and drinking from what must have been a small stream or pond and then decided to lay down for a late morning snooze.

Our animal scouts hard at work.
The beautiful big bull moose came sauntering out of the trees and less then 50 yards from where we were standing.
Such a big and beautiful animal. Its been a long time since I have seen a moose this close and a bull at that.

After the excitement of the moose we continued on our way out to Lamar Valley. Lamar was pretty quiet and the heat of the day was most likely keeping the larger animals in the shade of the trees. We did see plenty of pronghorn, some of the big male bison and an eagle off in the distance. We went as far as we had time for and then turned around. The next plan of action was to find some lunch and hopefully a few more of the big animals. So with that we headed up and over Mt. Washburn and down to Canyon Village for some lunch.

After lunch we headed out to Hayden Valley with hope of seeing more then just bison and other hooved animals. But that was not the case, unfortunately. It was a beautiful drive though. Hayden Valley is just one of those places you have to see for yourself. The wide and meandering Yellowstone River and the rolling green and golden hills are peaceful and stunning. Its one of many reasons Yellowstone is my “Happy Place”.

We could only go so far through Hayden Valley if we wanted to have time to see other things, so we turned around and headed back towards Canyon Village. During the drive back both girls fell asleep. I couldn’t blame them. The day was sunny and warm and there was a nice cool breeze blowing. Who wouldn’t want to fall asleep?

Lots of fun, sunshine and mountain air makes kiddos tired. I know someone else who used to cover herself with a blanket in the car.
This yellow-bellied marmot was one regal looking fellow.
Hands off of my berries!
I think this little chipmunk was hoping to steal a berry from the marmot.

From Canyon Village we drove through Norris and back up to Mammoth. We decided to take one last drive out to Lamar and through Blacktail Plateau. Maybe, just maybe we would see a bear or a wolf. But alas, we did not. The late afternoon drive through Blacktail was beautiful. The sunlight lit up the remaining wildflowers and remnant burned trees from the fire of 1988. It was a wonderful last picture to have before getting ready to head home.

Blacktail Plateau Afternoon Sunlight
The lone coyote spotted by our little hawk eyes!

As one last little jaunt through the park, we took the secret road from Mammoth to the north gate. Last year when we took this same road Abby spotted the bones of a bison sitting right on top of a small hill. She wanted to see if they were still there. As we turned up and around the first hill she spotted them! Some of them were gone, most likely taken by tourists or other animals. Abby was pretty happy and I think she hopes to see them the next time we travel there.

On our way through the narrow, one way road we spotted a young bull elk getting an early start on his harem of ladies. Then Abby started yelling that she saw something. At first we thought that she was being silly because she had been using the binoculars to spot Grandpa Jerry. But she was being serious. Her sharp little eyes found a lonely coyote walking along the hillside. Neither Grandma or Grandpa or mommy had seen it! She spotted her first animal all on her own! What a way to end the trip through Yellowstone.

That coyote was the last animal we saw that day but it was a special sighting. The drive home was peaceful and quiet. The fresh mountain air and the beautiful day had left us relaxed and happy. Can you see why I call this place makes me so happy? No? Well then I suggest taking a trip there sometime, its worth it.

An Afternoon at the Museum

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Today was fun one, as always! Grandma and Grandpa had to work today but Auntie Jillian had the day off. SO after a relaxing morning we decided to head to the Museum of the Rockies for an afternoon of fun. The summer exhibit this year was about space travel, one I know Abby would not want to miss. That and I knew the girls wouldn’t stop asking until we went, many thanks to the Yellowstone play area for children.
We arrived just as an afternoon thunderstorm was trying to make its way into the valley. I was secretly hoping that we weren’t inside the museum too long. I didn’t want to miss it! Until then we would enjoy the museum and have a lot of fun.
Afternoon thunderstorm… Love it!
Abby and Ellie standing with Steve Hawley’s flight suite. The very last one of its kind.
Sitting in the kitchen, or a mock up of the kitchen, in the next craft intended for use by NASA.
Touching a real moon rock! Pretty cool if you ask me.
Fishing time! Who will catch one first?
Sisterly Eagle love… hmmm, that sounds awkward, but that’s ok.
Sisters in Eagle masks… AKA personal petri dishes.

The girls had a great time at the museum and really loved the NASA exhibit. They had the chance to see parts of the old shuttles and what the capsules looked like, They also had the chance to see a real flight suite and also touched a moon rock! We even had the chance to walk around in a mock up of the living area of the newest project by NASA. Afterward we headed up to the Yellowstone Adventure area to play for a bit. This is really what the girls came for and the NASA exhibit was a big bonus. As always they had a blast laying around and it was like pulling teeth to get them to go home.

When we left, the thunderstorm that was rolling had decided to get a bit bigger and the wind was blowing like crazy. We stopped for a yummy treat of frozen yogurt on the way back and when we left we had to book it home. Several surrounding areas were reporting major wind gusts and tornado warnings. The wind blew, we had some rain and thunder and continue to have some as we speak but nothing worse then that. It was yet another awesome day and we were so happy to spend it with Auntie Jillian!

A Huge Help!

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It was a quick weekend, too quick, but we had a nice time. My parents were an amazing help to us, pitching in whenever and wherever we needed them. I was sad to see them go, especially since it was all work and no play. It would have been nice to have some time to take them out and see the city, but we will save that for another time. Until then, we need to unpack and get settled in to our new life here in Seattle.

Yesterday was a busy and productive day. Shaun and my dad had a furniture building marathon. They completed three night stands (one for the girls room and the other two for our bedroom), two chest of drawers and a bookcase for the girls room. Now that those are completeed we have places to put everything, which makes unpacking a lot easier. Abby and Ellie also got a huge kick out of pretending to use Grandpa’s tools too. I am hoping they were of some help and not a hindrance.

My mom helped me unpack boxes in the kitchen and the girls room as well as cleaning the kitchen. Yeah, the kitchen. What a mess! It took us nearly an hour to clean out the fridge. Its obvious that the previous renters owned a cat and I question as to whether or not the cat lived in the firdge. All I know is that these people had a major aversion to cleaning and that doesnt settle well with this Monica Geller type of girl. It took me nearly two days to clean the master bathroom tub! But more to come on that later.

 My mom and I also took time to run to Target to get some much needed supplies. I have been so overwhelmed with moving in and getting things done that it was great to have a clear mind helping me out. I would have forgotten about a lot of things if she hadn’t been there. You forget all of the little things and some of the big things too!

We did take some time to go out for dinner and relax but then it was time for them to go. Luckily we will be seeing them soon as I hope to take a trip out to see them and my cousin David, who will be visiting in a few weeks. Pretty excited for that but we have a lot of unpacking to do before then!

An Afternoon at Ikea

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My parents arrived early this afternoon! So happy to see them and to have their help with unpacking. When they arrived we said our hellos and quickly put them to work. Having spent most of the morning unpacking more boxes and not wanting to go over the weekend, we headed to Ikea.

Man oh man… Ikea. Before this trip we had only been there for a few things, mostly small items. We would wander around and look at things but nothing too complicated. Today, however, was a completely different story. Our trip ended four hours later with new dressers, night stands, bedding and much more. The most amazing part of the day was watching my dad fit a good portion of the furniture boxes into their rental car, which was one of the new Ford Fiestas. That little car fit a lot of stuff in it! Although I have a feeling the pick up on it with all of the boxes in it was a tad rough.

Despite the amount of time spent there (and the money too) we had a great time. We learned that Ikea has a place for kids to play for an hour while you shop. My dad took them there and it made the long trip a bit easier on the girls and on us.

I don’t have pictures from the day but oh well. I wish I had one of the car packed full, but we had our mind on other things. After unpacking the car it was dinner at Teddy’s for a reward and then home for some needed rest. Busy and productive day but that is a very good thing.

A Little Mermaid Rockin’ Kids Party!

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Our littlest monkey is turning three in a few short days. Three! I really cannot believe it. I honestly don’t know where the time has gone. I say that every year with each of the girls birthdays but its the truth. I don’t know where the time has gone!
This year, because of the move, we opted to have a party away from the house. We knew that by this time we would be knee deep in boxes with most of our kitchen packed and we wouldn’t have a proper place for people to sit. So we decided to have Ellie’s Ariel themed birthday party at their favorite play place, Rockin’ Kids in Simi Valley.
Enjoying some play time with their favorite boyfriend, Harrison.
The adorable little birthday girl already sweaty from running around and playing with friends.
Sisters having a blast!
The Little Mermaid party theme! There was only so much decorating that I could do but I thought it looked cute.
Balloons and party bags from the Birthday Girl!
The dads have to keep busy too! The best way to do that is by playing a little air hockey.
The whole gang taking a snack and hydration break. 
Big cheese from the Birthday Girl.
So great to see familiar faces! Thank you to Barbara and Mile for coming to a kids place to hang out even though their kid is close to graduating from college.
Abby, Ellie and Grandma Zoe enjoying some snacks and smiles!
The cake! Super bummed that I didnt get to make it this year or even get her traditional ice cream cake, but this one was delicious.
Blue frosting tongue! That, or he just ate a smurf!
“Touch my presents and I will bite you!”
The Guerrero Family, now a family of four! This was our first time meeting Owen and boy what a cutie he is!
Abby and Ellie hamming it up with Auntie Fran!
Lots and lots of sisters!
“I got the Mermaid Barbie that I always wanted!”

Ellie had a wonderful afternoon with Abby and Harrison. Her party also gave us the chance to visit with some friends and family. This was kind of the last hurrah with people before the big move. After this party and our quick trip up to prep the house we wont have a lot of time to visit with people.

Ellie wore herself out, loaded up on cake and crashed later on that evening. After the party we opened presents from mommy, daddy and Grandma Zoe. Ellie loved everything she got especially her Barbie Mermaid and her Fisher Price Little Mermaid and Prince Erick Shell Carriage. What a fun and special day for our little cupcake!

Early Birthday and Goodbyes

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This morning Grandpa, Grandma and Auntie Jillian had to hit the read and head back to Montana. Boy the time flew by so fast! We had a lot of fun though and of course had to celebrate one last time before they took off. Since they couldn’t come to Ellie’s birthday party we opened presents together before their departure. Ellie enjoyed it and so did the rest of us! 
Once it was all said and done off they went. I was sad to see them go but I knew that in just a few short weeks we would be moving closer to them. It kept me going and certainly made our goodbyes a bit easier. See you soon Grandpa, Grandma and Auntie Jillian!
Lots of lovely presents and a toy or two from Disneyland to open!
So proud of her castle present.
Look a new bathing suit and cover up, with Ariel on it!
Big bags require standing up and digging. There must be good things in this one!
“Grandma, can you read me my card please?”
“Now I get to be a real Doc McStuffins. Time for your check up!”

Our Disneyland Adventure – Day Two

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The following morning we woke from a very restful slumber, ready and excited for a day of fun. OK, that was Shaun and I but the girls took some coaxing to wake up. Once they were awake though, it was game on! We dressed and packed up quickly and soon we were on our way to the Happiest Place on Earth.
Abby passed out in bed. Twenty minutes later she was bouncing around the room ready to get going. 
Ellie passed out and sleeping across the bed. Yes, that meant I had a foot in the kidney most of the night but I still slept well!

The day started over in California Adventure. We wanted to do all of the favorites over there before heading over to Disneyland for the rest of the day. Abby and Ellie had fun on The Little Mermaid, Luigi’s Flying Tires, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, Monsters Inc. and more. They also had the chance to see a few of their favorite but more obscure characters like Jake and Mr. and Mrs. Incredible!

So excited for a day with the mouse!
Waiting in line for Luigi’s Flying Tires. Abby was super excited to ride this one.
Hanging with Auntie Jillian while we wait for our turn on Luigi’s Flying Tires
Abby and Daddy flying along!
Lots of fun on Luigis Flying Tires!
Ellie and Auntie Jillian having a great time!
Grandma and Grandpa embracing their inner child. It’s Disneyland, its allowed!
A “Pit Stop” at Flo’s before moving on to the next exciting ride.
“No pictures while I am eating, please.”
Grandma at Radiator Springs Racers… They loved it!
I love Cars Land. Disney did such an amazing job recreating Radiator Springs!
All ready to spin on Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree!
Grandma and Auntie Jillian well… embracing that inner child again!
Finished up with Monsters now we are waiting on Auntie Jillian!
Enjoying the Mad Tea Party chairs… Anything Alice is worthy of Auntie Jillian’s attention!
“Welcome to Hollywood!!”
Jake from Jake and the Neverland Pirates loved Ellie’s glasses.
Can you tell that Ellie really loves Jake. Such a big smile!
We never get to see the Incredibles! This was so awesome to get a picture with them. More so for Abby than Ellie.

After California Adventure, we made our way over to Disneyland. On our way Ellie fell asleep and missed out on the one character that we wanted to see before leaving. Donald Duck. Every time we go to Disneyland she wants to see him and take a picture but we never find him. This time he was there in all his cranky glory with a small line and Ellie was too passed out to wake up. Oh well, another time I guess! Instead we continued on our way over to New Orleans Square for a birthday lunch at Blue Bayou, how exciting!

A special pirate chest cake just for Ellie. It was yummy!

After lunch it was time for more fun and rides. First up was Pirates of the Caribbean. Abby was not so thrilled about this but we gave her a cotton candy incentive. She hopped right on. Both girls were very brave and once we were off, wanted to go again! After Pirates it was on to Winnie the Pooh and then Jillian, Grandpa and myself used out Fast Passes for Splash Mountain. I am so glad our pass was for the afternoon. It gave us time to dry off in the warm weather and not in the cool of the evening. After our soak we headed over to Big Thunder Ranch to rest and dry off. We were even serenaded by a rather lovely singing cowboy. Too cute! After our visit to big thunder it was off to Fantasyland for some more fun!

Our brave girls in line for Pirates of the Caribbean. It took bribing Abby with cotton candy to get her to go one, but she did and had a blast!
Auntie Jillian and I just as we were taking off. Nice and dry at this moment.
This is Auntie Jillian and myself after several good soakings on big and a few not so big drops. Soaked from head to toe.
Visiting the animals at Big Thunder Ranch… This beautiful horse named Belle was quite the love bug and wanted lots of loves and scratches.
Checking out the goats with Grandpa Jerry. Abby wasn’t too keen on this one. One day she wont be so afraid anymore.
Let’s climb Rapunzel’s tower!
Lots and laughs and giggles while we wait in line to see a few of the lovely princesses.
The girls were so excited to meet Snow White for the very first time. Ellie and Abby showed her how to dance and Snow White tried very hard. It was very cute. She was a great Snow White.
Ellie always gets a bit shy when she meets her favorite Princess Ariel.
Luckily she is never to shy to stop and take a picture.
Auntie Jillian, Abby and Ellie stop for a quick dip in the tea cup!

After some time spent roaming around Fantasyland, it was off to Toon Town. That was Abby’s request. We spent some time in Minnie’s house and also had the chance to see Mickey! Ellie kept telling Mickey she was turning three. I think she is excited for her upcoming birthday! After a good tour around Toon Town we took a ride on Its A Small World and then made plans for dinner. The girls were starting to wind down, the fireworks were close to starting and everyone was hungry. Luckily we snagged a good table at the Plaza Inn and had the chance to eat dinner and watch the fireworks too.

Tea time at Minnie’s house!
It’s Mickey’s laundry room! Lets all strike a pose!
Ellie was blown away by the fact that Mickey was in the mirror! Such a cute moment!
Showing Mickey and anyone who will look that she is turning three!
So happy to see Mickey and loving every minute of the day.
Sometimes a day at Disneyland makes you sleep at the dinner table, under your blanket, during the fireworks.

I couldn’t help it but the fire works had me emotional. OK, I cried. It was surreal knowing that this was the last time we would go to Disneyland for a while. I know we will come back again but it wouldn’t at our leisure. We would see it in a new light, as a vacation not just a day trip. It made me realize that we would be moving very soon and it made me a bit sad and nostalgic. Trust me, our move to Seattle has me very excited and I cannot wait to go but we are still leaving a lot of things that are familiar to me, to us. I think what had me the most was watching the girls, their excitement and the way their eyes light up any time we walked through those gates. I guess it wont happen as often but when it does their excitement and the light in their eyes will be ten fold. 

There a lot of changes and new things coming our way, its scary and exciting at the same time but it was wonderful to make one last memory here. Now its time to take on the future and see where the next path will take us. All I know is that I couldn’t have asked for better people to take that path with. 

Our Disneyland Adventure – Day One

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Two busy days of stage rehearsals and recitals have come to an end. As I said before, its a bittersweet feeling and while it was chaotic I am going to miss it. Now it was time to relax and enjoy some time with Grandma, Grandpa and Auntie Jillian. Since this would be the last time they visit California for a while, we decided it would a blast to head to one of our favorite places in Southern California and do it up the right way! So off to the Happiest Place on Earth we went.
Our plan was to stay at the Paradise Pier Hotel, one of the three Disneyland Resort Hotels. However, when we arrived it was discovered that our reservation was incorrect and the hotel was completely booked for the night. I nearly jumped over the reservation desk and strangled the gentleman who was “helping” us. Once it was determined that we had been booked for the wrong day he basically told us it was our problem and to check other places. Luckily my dad and Shaun kept their cool and kept me under wraps. Shaun called his friend who booked the reservation for us and all was fixed. Instead of the Paradise Pier Hotel, we now had reservations at the Disneyland Hotel! I guess things really do happen for a reason.
At the Paradise Pier Hotel and ready for a great time at the Happiest Place on Earth.

Our experience at the Disneyland Hotel was far better then we expected, especially after the gentleman at the Paradise Pier. We were quickly checked in and she was very mindful of the fact that we had two rooms and wanted to be as close to one another as possible. She wasn’t able to put us on the same floor but later on while we were at dinner, she found us and moved rooms so that we were all on the same floor! She went above and beyond for us and that made us completely forget about the problems earlier.

After check in we scurried over for a surprise dinner at Goofy’s Kitchen. The girls were so excited to have dinner with their favorite Disney Characters. We were also celebrating Ellie’s birthday since Grandpa, Grandma and Auntie Jillian couldn’t stay in town for Ellie’s party. We had such a great time and Goofy, Minnie and Mickey all came around to sing Happy Birthday to Ellie too! She was smiling from ear to ear.

Dinner time at Goofy’s Kitchen!
Princess Aurora stopped by to say hello to two very excited princesses.
Here comes Goofy with his pals Minnie and Mickey to sing Happy Birthday to Ellie!
Saying hello to Minnie Mouse!
Look Mom… No Hands!
Cupcake bliss!

After dinner it was time to hit the hay and get ready for our day at Disneyland. We had never stayed at the Disneyland Hotel before, so coming up to the room was quite the treat. Having the Tinker Bell button made the night for the girls. Disney always knows how to do things right. Sure you pay for it but I think its worth every penny to see the smiles on Abby and Ellie’s faces and hear them squeal in delight. What a night it was. Its amazing how mistakes can make things better in the end.

“The Tinker Bell button makes the whole room sparkle” – Ellie
We slept the entire night with our sparkly lights on. It was a perfect night.

Abby, The Recital Veteran

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Ellie’s first recital has now come and gone and now its time for Abby’s turn! Abby can now call herself a “recital veteran” as this is her second recital. She is just as excited though and this time I don’t think she is quite as anxious about it.
So, just like Ellie we spent the morning at stage rehearsal where Abby practiced her dances and enjoyed time with her friends. She did a wonderful job too. Its amazing how much she has grown and changed over the last year. She is so confident and proud of all of the things that she accomplishes and you can see it on her face. 
A beautiful arabesque at stage rehearsal.  So serious and intense!

After rehearsal we headed home for some lunch and rest. We sat and laughed and giggled as Abby worked on getting her hair done. Both she and Ellie opened recital presents from Grandma and Grandpa Taylor as well as Auntie Fran. Pretty soon it was time to leave and head back to the theater. It was showtime!

What a gorgeous girl. All prepped and now its time to just wait for the curls to set.
“Dumb Dog, Why are you following me?”
Telling Sandy no with a little bit of attitude. That’s my girl!
Abby was having so much fun up there!
“Let’s Go Fly a Kite” Both girls sure love to jump!
What a dancer! Abby was so proud of her “big girl arabesque”.
Another perfect arabesque and a beautiful look on her face!
Having fun even sitting and clapping along for the finale. I think at this point she was looking for us in the audience.

Abby and Ellie’s classes each did the same dance, so Abby proudly danced to “Dumb Dog” from Annie and “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” from Mary Poppins. Being that this will be her last recital at Bobbie’s I thought it was very fitting that she had the chance to dance to a song from one of her favorite movies. Made my heart melt. Abby did such a wonderful job with her dances. She did such a great job of remembering them and dancing on her own. Shaun and I are so proud of her. What a very special night.

Of course after the show was over, Abby was happy to be the center of attention and receive flowers from us and her grandparents. She took pictures with her teachers, family and friends and would have stayed all night talking and running around with them if she could.

Abby and her wonderful teacher, Miss Elizabeth. We are going to miss her so much next year!
Abby with Miss Elizabeth and Miss Jess. I think she was getting a little bit shy with all of the picture taking.
Abby and Miss Jess. I guess she had enough energy to smile for one more picture!
Abby and her little friend Lilah. These two were thick as thieves all year long. Such cuties!
Abby and her very proud Auntie Jillian.
During Ellie’s class on Saturdays, Abby made friends with a few of the big girls who were waiting for their rehearsals. They loved Abby and always let her sit and talk with them while she was there. One of the girls I have known since she was only two years old. Boy how time flies fast!
Sharing a few hugs and smiles with Daddy. We are so proud of you!
Enjoying a dancer of her own on an empty stage.

Leaving the theater tonight was bittersweet. I was so proud of Abby and the beautiful dancing she had done. I couldn’t have been happier. At the same time I had a feeling of sadness. This would be the last time that we danced at Bobbie’s. It was almost like the end of an era. Between dancing there myself, watching my sister dance too, working there and then watching Abby and Ellie dance there too, there was a lot of history and fond memories. We wont be gone for good and I know that we will visit when we are in town, but it wont be the same. I only hope that we can find a dance studio in Seattle that they love just as much but there will always be a little something missing.

Despite the sadness, I was also happy to be moving toward something new and exciting. All moves away from the familiar are bittersweet and you are always leaving something behind but the unknown will also be exciting and full of new beginnings and new memories. So as we packed our beautiful little dancer into the car and watched her smile as she held her flowers I knew that she would always have these great memories as well as new ones in the future. All that mattered was that she was happy. A perfect night.

Ellie’s First Recital

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Today was the big day! It’s Ellie’s first recital! She was so excited when she woke up this morning and so ready for recital. We still had a full day to get through. In the morning, Ellie had stage rehearsal. This allows the dancers, especially the young ones, get a feel for what its like to be on stage and dance. Ellie got up there and did a great job. She may have been a little shy and quiet but she soon warmed up to it and had a great time. It was a great sign for the evening ahead!
Ellie practicing her “Dumb Dog” dance at stage rehearsal.

After a successful stage rehearsal we headed home for lunch and a nap. Lunch happened, nap did not. That had me worried that a meltdown could potentially happen before, during or after the show or at all three moments. My fingers were crossed and I think I was holding my breath. She was so excited for the night that I didn’t want it sullied by not having a nap.

Ellie is all dressed and ready for her very first recital! Shaun is a great daddy for carrying Ellie’s costume bag, but I think we already knew that. It may not look like it here, but Ellie was ready to get the show on the road.
My beautiful little Ellie doing her Fly A Kite dance. She was having fun with her little friends. It makes my heart soar to know that she enjoyed it.
Beautiful arabesque!
Jumping and jumping over and over again. This was her favorite part of the dance to do!
“Dumb Dog, Why are you following me?” Nice big shuffles.
She actually sat down during this part of the dance! Usually she just stands there. I guess she didn’t like that part and for those who know Ellie, she doesn’t do anything she doesn’t want to do. My stubborn little girl.
My cute little cupcake. She loved this dance the most because of the costume. While the dance was to Dumb Dog from the musical Annie, she called it her “Minnie costume. She looked adorable!

Luckily the lack of a nap didn’t create any issues. Ellie was great and we even got a few smiles out of her on stage. Even though she seems so serious on stage its because Ellie loves to soak everything in. I know she was having fun though, because at one point in her ballet dance she spotted Shaun and myself in the audience. I waved at her and she waved right back with such an excited look. So lucky to have caught it on video too!

Ellie is all smiles with one of her teachers, Miss Jess. Thank you for such a wonderful year!
Smiles, hugs and flowers from Daddy! What a special night for both of them. 
Mommy and Ellie are all smiles after the best first recital ever. So proud of you Ellie!
Ellie with her teacher, Miss Elizabeth. Ellie adores her! What an amazing young lady and teacher. She really has a gift with kids and as we saw tonight she is also a very gifted and talented choreographer. I think we will see a lot from Miss Elizabeth in the future!
The little dancer and her flowers. She didn’t want to put them down or have anyone hold them!

Ellie had one heck of a night and felt so special. Hugs and pictures with family and of course her teachers and then flowers from several people. She was all smiles afterwards and you couldn’t get her to stop talking about her wonderful night. We are so proud of you Ellie Belly! What a wonderful night for everyone! A little bittersweet but wonderful nonetheless. Love you Ellie!

It’s a Great Day for a Zoo Day!

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With our move to Seattle coming up, it was hard not to think about the things that we will be leaving behind. The same goes for my parents and my sister. Once the Wharton’s head to the Pacific Northwest, my parents and sister wont have the same reasons to come and visit California. Its not that they wont come back to visit, but it wont be as often as it used to be. With that in mind we decided that during their visit, we would head to a few of the places we will all miss the most and today was the Santa Barbara Zoo!
It was a perfect day for the zoo too! Warm, sunny with a nice cool breeze. Couldn’t have asked for a better day! When we arrived at the zoo we headed straight for the giraffes, making sure we had the chance to see the new babies and feed Michael too. We made it with plenty of time to spare and enjoyed every moment. Its fun listening to Abby and Ellie giggle and laugh about the giraffe’s long slimy tongue.
After we fed the giraffes it was time to feed ourselves. We headed off to a quiet little spot for a picnic. We watched people and the giraffes from our perch and had a visit by several little hummingbirds. Once our bellies were full it was off to see more animals and have some fun!
Abby was so excited to feed Michael the Giraffe again! She loved every minute of it!
Elle was trying really hard to feed Michael but tough his tongue too. She was fascinated by it!
One of the two mama’s hanging out with the babies. So cute and she was being so protective!
One of the little hummingbirds that came for a visit as we had a picnic.
Walking the boardwalk to see the Condors and the Channel  Islands Fox.
Beauregard the Channel Islands Fox was adorable today! He crawled up a beam and came right up to the netting that covers his enclosure. We thought we were special but its because it was feeding time. A few minutes later a keeper came with dinner and he was off to give her some love. Still cute and Auntie Jillian was beside herself with excitement because he came so close. Great moment at the zoo!
We had to stop and visit the penguins for Abby. Gotta love these guys in their little tuxedos!
At the end of the day Abby and Ellie had the chance to choose something from the shop. Abby chose a giraffe which she named Audrey after one of the mama giraffes. Ellie chose a lion and promptly named him Ted. Not a clue where that name came from but it sure gave us the giggles.

We made our rounds through the zoo, seeing as much as we could before closing time. I didn’t get to see the otters as I had hoped. Well I did but just their bellies as they were sleeping in the grass. What is important though is that the girls had the chance to see the animals they love to see; giraffes, elephants, gorillas, penguins, lions and more.

We had a great time with all of the animals and even the drive home was gorgeous. For one last bit of nostalgia, dating back to when Jillian and I were kids, we stopped on the way home to get a little treat at Foster’s Freeze in Carpenteria. So yummy and a great way to cap off an already fun day in Santa Barbara. Its going to be a while, but until next time Santa Barbara!

Our 6th Anniversary and a Very Happy Father’s Day

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Happy 6th Anniversary…

I cannot believe I am saying 6th anniversary! Then again, I think I say that every year! It feels like only yesterday Shaun and I were married and we had the best party with all of our family and friends, brush fires and all! Our day wasn’t perfect, in the sense that not everything went off without a hitch, but it was perfect to us because we were surrounded by the ones we love. In life, that’s what matter most. 

Not much has changed since then. When the road gets tough and we are faced with challenges, I try to to worry because I know I have Shaun right there with me. He is the cool, calm and level headed person that balances my often emotional and reactive personality. In my mind we are a perfect match and after six years our relationship is better and stronger then it was before.

The year leading up to our 6th Anniversary has been a bit more rocky and challenging than the years past. But the one good thing about all of those challenges is that it has given us some wonderful perspective and allowed us to appreciate the things that we do have, each other. Here is what we were doing leading up to our 6th Anniversary…

  • Abby performed in her very first dance recital. She was adorable and did such a great job! We were all so proud of her and I cannot wait to see what the future brings, assuming she wants to keep dancing. 🙂
  • Celebrated Ellie’s 2nd Birthday and watched her grow even more. She is talking more than we can can keep up with and learning all the time. Ellie is has definitely started to show her stubborn side. Age two is going to be interesting! We also discovered that Ellie has an issue with her vision. She has an astigmatism and is also very nearsighted. To correct the problem and strengthen her eye she will need glasses during her crucial development years, so until about age 10. I was worried at first but she is darn cute in those glasses.
  • Overnight Ellie was potty trained! All it took was a trip to Grandpa and Nana’s, some pull ups, a princess potty and some hot summer days to run around in her birthday suit!
  • In September, Abby started her first year of school at St. Stephens Preschool. Where does the time go? Preschool already? There were a few years from Mommy and Daddy too!
  • Abby, Ellie, Auntie Kelli and myself took a fantastic road trip up to Montana near the beginning of September. WE missed Daddy a lot but a girls road trip was a hoot. I also enjoyed sharing some of my favorite places with Kelli and she enjoyed it too!
  • Unfortunately, at the beginning of October Shaun was laid off from his job at Sony. It was a scary and very startling reality to life. The unknown is scary but we have each other, the support of family and friends and faith in the fact that things will get better soon. For now we will enjoy the time we have with one another.
  • Abby celebrated her 4th Birthday and she has grown by leaps and bounds since. Abby is learning so much at school and at home, it amazes me. She soaks up everything at school, loves to learn, and is making lots of new friends. 
  • On October 31st, my Grandma Taylor passed away. It was unexpected, at least for me. We went to St. George to say goodbye and visit with family. Abby came with us and was such a good girl. She had a lot of questions about her Grandma Tutu, but listened and learned with the poise of an adult. I was so proud of her. It was a difficult time but knowing that she is now with my Grandpa brings me a lot of peace. Miss you Grandma and love you so much!
  • Dance began again and this time Ellie started and had her very first dance class. It took a few tries, but in the end she loved it! She loves Miss Elizabeth and talks about her nonstop! I cannot wait for recital!
  • We enjoyed another trip at Christmas time to Montana. No mishaps with bumpers or Montana drivers this time! Instead we enjoyed time with family, including my cousin Mike and his beautiful fiance Sue. Abby and Ellie didn’t get to see as much snow as they would have liked, but they made the best of it. Grandpa even bust out the sled and we found him dragging them around the neighborhood on several occasions. It was a fun and relaxing trip. We had to pinch our pennies but we found ways of having fun and loving the time we had!
  • The NHL lock out finally came to and end and the hockey season began. Shaun surprised me with tickets to the first home game which meant we had the chance to see the Kings raise their Stanley Cup banner at Staples Center. It was worth every penny and then some!
  • After not having any luck with jobs, Shaun and I decided to take a big leap of faith and made the decision to move to Seattle after the school year ended. We even took a road trip up with Abby to find a place to live. Its scary taking such a risk but I know, as always, we will land on our feet.
So the year has been busy but all of these events occurred in the same city, with the same number of children, in the same house! That is about to change though! What a new and exciting adventure we are about to embark on!
Happy Anniversary Shaun! Here is to another six years and then another hundred after that. I love you so much and I am thankful for all that you have done for me and given to me. I cannot wait to see what the next year brings us, especially in a new city and a new home What an adventure I am sure it will be!