Tag: Friends

Bunny Birthday Bash

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Abby’s friend from preschool was celebrating her 5th birthday and both of the girls were invited. They were certainly excited for a birthday party in general, but when the girls found out that there would be bunnies there…. all bets were off. What a fun and happy birthday party and who can resist a cuddly fuzzy bunny! I know I couldn’t and neither could Shaun! We called him the bunny whisperer. They all seemed to calm down and snuggle up with him every time we picked one up. So cute!

Waiting patiently to hold the bunnies. A few rules first.

Look at that sweet face and wittle bunny nose!

Bunnies and school friends!

So happy to be bunny snugglin’.
So proud to be holding a bunny
Surrounded by bunnies!
Love this little girls smile!
Another bunny!!
This little bunny kept coming up to Ellie for loves and snuggles. Who can argue with that?
Are you still in there little bunny?
Such a big smile! Its amazing what an animal can do.
Daddny helping Ellie wrap up a bunny. This little guy was super calm and happy to be held by Ellie
Makes my heart melt.
This little guy couldn’t get enough love from Daddy and Ellie
Daddy, the bunny whisperer. This little guy snuggled right in and started to fall asleep!
Carrots!
Bunny love. And no… I wasn’t allowed to take one home!

A Day Out In Kingston with Friends

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Today Shaun watched the girls for the afternoon so that I could spend some time with Auntie Kelli and meet her boyfriend Keith for the first time. I was excited to have a day out with Kelli and even more excited to meet the man who was making her so very happy!
We had decided to go for lunch and then take the ferry over to Kingston for some delicious crepes. Lunch at Azteca was delicious and the conversation during that time was hilarious and non-stop. When we finished we drove to the ferry and this time decided to park the car in Edmonds and walked on, something I had not done before! The ferry ride over was beautiful and we made it to the crepe place in enough time to score a table and sit down before a wave of people arrived.
A beautiful afternoon on the Sound with high clouds that helped keep the heat away.
Pretty lady!
Kelli and Keith
The amazing Crepe place on Kingston, just a short walk from the ferry and worth every penny. Yummy!
Sunset and full moon over the sound. What a spectacular night.

We sat outside, enjoyed the weather and met up with one of Keiths friends. We sat and talked for quite some time and did some people watching too. It was a much needed afternoon. As it started to get late, we headed back to the ferry and back across the sound to Edmonds. The sunset and moon rise on the sound was beautiful and a perfect ending to a lovely day with friends old and new. As for Keith, he is one heck of a great guy and I think Kelli found someone very special. So excited and very happy for such an amazing friend.

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!

Bixby and Felicity Turn Two!

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In February, our dear friends Bixby and Felicity turned two! Now its time to celebrate! Today we headed over to Wolfson home and enjoyed a lovely afternoon with the twins and their family and friends. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon, perfect for a birthday party. Abby and Ellie had the chance to swing, run, bounce and play ball while Shaun and I talked with friends and relaxed.
Bixby and Felicity have grown so much and looked adorable on their special day. They loved all of the yummy food their mommy made for the party and dove right in to their special birthday cupcakes. It was wonderful to spend an afternoon with them and watch the girls have such a great time. 
Happy Birthday Bixby and Felicity! Its hard to believe that two years have passed by already!

Birthday Party Weekend!

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Abby has two good friends in this world, both of whom she loves and adores. There is Emily, who Abby calls “her Emily” and then there is “her boyfriend” Harrison. We dont always get the chance to see them but when we do its a blast. Emily and Harrison were born within 2 weeks of one another, which means Abby has two birthdays to look forward to in the month of August. This year they fell on the same weekend! We were busy but we certainly had a blast.

On Saturday, Emily had a Lalaloopsy Party.. She was adorable and her party was a lot of fun. The girls enjoyed cookie decorating, temporary tattoos, and just running around and playing. Ellie loved the little bottles of bubbles that were given out to play with and Abby was thrilled to sit and play with Emily’s dollhouse a bit. I think the girls had a great time. Happy 4th Birthday Emily!

Ellie was having a blast with her bubbles and was actually blowing them on her own!

Abby and her beautifully decorated cookie.

About to sing Happy Birthday to the birthday girl. What a bunch of hams!

Happy Birthday Emily! You are adorable!

On Sunday we headed over to De Anza Park in Calabasas for Harrison’s 4th Birthday party. This year he had a superhero themed party and it was pretty awesome. The girls came home with their own capes and masks to play with and they love them. There was a bouncy castle to jump in and the park also has a water feature that the kids can play in. Super Abby and Ellie Girl (aka The Jaybird) had a blast running around and playing at the park. Abby practiced her superhero moves and had the chance to meet a new friend or two (although I will add that they were all boys). It was definitely a “super” kind of day! Happy 4th Birthday Harrison!

Super Ellie with Clark Kent curl to boot!

Super Abby!
Happy Birthday Harrison! Love your cake, made my hand by your amazing  mommy! 

Super Abby and Ellie Girl (AKA The Jaybird)

Super Hero friends… Love this picture.

Friends That Are Meant to Be…

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I have been meaning to post something about this since February, but life became busy and I was finding it hard to just keep up with the blog posts I did have. However this was something special that I didn’t want to be over looked. Erika discovered this in February and sent me a text while we were away in San Francisco. I remember getting the text, seeing the picture and completely freaking out. It was so strange but an obvious sign of things to come and what was meant to be. Sorry to be so vague. I had planned on writing about it myself, but Erika put it to words on her blog and did an amazing job. So instead of writing about it on this blog, please click here and enjoy Erika’s wonderful post. It makes me laugh and smile every time I read it! Hope you enjoy!

Ellie’s 2nd Birthday Party!

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While Ellie’s official birthday isn’t until tomorrow, today we celebrated her second birthday with family and friends. Since Minnie Mouse is one of Ellie’s favorite characters these days, we had a fun Minnie Mouse themed party. The day was pretty relaxed and low key. Abby and Ellie had the chance to play with Harrison and just enjoy being kids while the adults mingled, talked and caught up with one another. This year it was wonderful to have my parents and sister here to celebrate. I know its hard on them when they have to miss birthdays, so it was extra special to have them here.
Ellie had a great time and enjoyed eating her birthday ice cream cake. She was a little unsure of all the people surrounding her and singing to her and became very shy when it came time to blow out her candles, so mommy had to do that for her. We had two cakes this year (I think this will become tradition) one was an ice cream cake from Baskin Robins the other was made by hand by yours truley from scratch. For those who might be wondering, the ice cream cake tradition started last year on Ellie’s first birthday when the cake I was baking from scratch turned into complete chaos. In the end we ordered and ice cream cake instead and I only make a simple small cake for Ellie to smash her hands into. This year my cake was a success and I think a hit with those who chose to have a piece from it.
Nothing but smiles from the birthday girl.

Both of Ellie’s beautiful birthday cakes.
 
Ellie’s birthday cake that was made from scratch by mommy. Lots lof love went into that cake!

After cake and a bit of playtime it was on to presents! Ellie was definitely more involved with opening them this year but still wanted to play with everything as it was unwrapped. Eventually she lost interest and I did a lot of it, but that’s ok. Her distraction came from toys she loved the minute she opened them. Who am I to complain about that?

Blowing out candles but a little overwhelmed by all of the attention.

Kisses from mommy for the birthday girl.

MMMMMM… CAKE!

Opening presents with reckless abandon!

When all was said and done we were surrounded by lots of presents, food and two happy but tired children. The afternoon was a success and it was obvious to us that Ellie is very much loved by everyone she knows. What a wonderful day. Happy Birthday Ellie!

A Busy But Fun Saturday!

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Yesterday was a very busy Saturday. Don’t get me wrong, when I say busy it was a good type of busy. Not wanting to be stuck in the house on such a beautiful day, we decided to head up to Santa Barbara and go to the zoo! Sure we have been to the Santa Barbara Zoo a lot but it is such a great place to take the kids and it doesn’t require an entire day or weekend to do it! The girls had a great time and we had a few firsts. On this visit, both snow leopards were out in their enclosure for all to see. I dont think in all of my time at the zoo I have seen both of them at the same time.  One of them was evening making “funny noises” as Abby said. To me he sounded like my old cat Harley when he wanted something. I have a feeling it was time to eat.
We also had hoped to see the new Otter couple but they were still getting used to their new home, which meant they only were allowed to come out and visit for small amounts of time. Bob and Jillian, the zoos last couple, now call the National Zoo in Washington D.C. Their family of 13 grew quickly and the Santa Barbara Zoo no longer had the space to take care of them.  For those of you who didn’t know, the Otters are named based on pop culture at the time they come to the zoo. Bob and Jillian arrived during a time when the “Biggest Loser” was very popular especially among the zoo staff. The new couple has been named Katniss and Peeta, after the popular books and movie, The Hunger Games. Hopefully the next time we visit we can meet the new additions to the zoo!
All smiles and ready to head to the zoo!

The new Otter couple at the zoo! I have to admit, I love their new names!

Abby didnt believe me when I told her that these Capybaras are big rats.

The Snow Leopard that seemed to be very hungry.

Shaun walking with his girls up to see the elephants.

A young Flamingo that has yet to get his pink feathers.

Where I go, Blankie Goes.

Stopping to see the Giraffes. Ellie wanted to be one!

Hitching a ride with Daddy.

Cardboard + AstroTurf = A Really Fun Ride!

Ellie needed a little help from her Daddy.

A new friend and time spent at the zoo means a nice sleep on the way home.

While we were at the zoo, I received we text from Erika to see if the girls wanted to meet up at Bright Child to play with Harrison. Since we were close to wrapping up our day we accepted! Not only was it an opportunity for the girls to play with their friend, it was also another chance for us to let the girls run until they couldn’t run anymore! With a nap in the car on the way, they were ready to play when we arrived. Abby, Ellie and Harrison played basketball together, ran, jumped and took on the slides without any problems.

Taking a time out, especially after that personal foul. 🙂

Taking on the slide. Abby jumped up the minute she hit the bottom, just at the opening and flew out just so she could go again. It was quite a site to see.

Harrison prefered the feet first approach!

Ellie used those strong legs and ab muscles to stop herself. Yet another impressive site to see. We certainly have strong kids.

After a long day of animals, walking, playing and running we headed home. Luckily we were smart enough to bring PJ’s for the girls, so when they passed out on the ride home, all we had to do was move them from the car to their beds. They passed out before we even reached the freeway.  As I have said before, passed out kiddos are a sure sign of a very fun day!

Leslie and Sheldon’s Wedding

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My dear friend Leslie and her adorable fiance’ Sheldon were hitched, tied the knot,… in other words they got married! They were married at Calamigos Ranch at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in Burbank. The  ceremony was simple but beautiful and their officiant was very funny. I don’t think I have ever seen a smile that big on Leslie’s face and I have known her for a while now. Sheldon looked just as happy and excited. These two were made for each other. What a joyous day!
The Beautiful Bridesmaid Kelli

The Beautiful Bridesmaid Shayla.  I haven’t seen her in 18 years! It was so wonderful to catch up with her!

Here Comes the Gorgeous Bride!

Big and beautiful smiles for the almost newlyweds.

They said “I Do”! 

The newly married couple. They look wonderful and so happy!

The reception was wonderful as well. Leslie even surprised her guests with a flash mob piece. I wanted to do it but I was unable to make most of the rehearsals or even sit down and learn it. I was pretty bummed but I also didn’t want to bring the group down on her wedding day. The food was wonderful and the drinks were plenty. I don’t drink much, if ever these days so the few cocktails and the glass of wine that I had left me a bit on the happy side. It was nice though. I had the chance to catch up with a friend I hadn’t seen in nearly 18 years, I got to dance with Shaun and I had the chance to dance with my friends. We also enjoyed the photo booth too! It was a magical night.  And to top it all off, as we were sitting eating our dinner we discovered via Twitter that the Los Angeles Kings beat Vancouver in OT to move onto the second round of playoffs! Shaun and I had even more reason to get up and dance!

Our table. Loved that each table was a different car!

The Newlyweds!

Leslie and Sheldon’s First Dance. I love the way she is looking at him. Priceless.

All those glasses are clinking… its time for a kiss!

The garter toss… this is too funny!

We hated to leave that night but it had to be done. I left happy and bubbly, spending time with friends and catching up. That and I am sure the whine helped with it. Congrats Leslie and Sheldon! You deserve all the happiness, love and wonderful memories ahead of you!

A Day Out with Thomas…

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What is better then watching Thomas the Tank Engine? Riding him! Every year Thomas the Tank Engine travels around the country, stopping at train depots everywhere for all children to see and enjoy. So we braved the pending ninety degree weather and head out to Fillmore for a Day Out with Thomas. We weren’t braving this day alone though, the Guerreros’s were coming too! 
The day was a surprise to Harrison, but when they arrived it was a tad underwhelming. I think this happens to every parent. Just when you think your child is going to have a coronary over something you know they love, they act like its no biggie or want nothing to do with it. Abby was that way when she finally met Rapunzel at Disneyland.
We had a great time despite the heat, but I think its something we can say we did and not have to do it again. We paid for tickets to do the Thomas train ride, but there was also a little “fair”. They had bouncy castles, food, train tables, coloring and of course a gift shop. Everything, except for the train ride, was open to the public at no charge which I think took away from the event. In the end Harrison and Abby wanted to spend more time in the bouncy castles then the train. They did ride Thomas though and had fun but if they could eat snow cones and bonce around all say, they would have. 
 Ready for some fun in the sun!

Catching a ride with Daddy and getting a  quick peek of Thomas.

“WE ARE READY FOR SOME FUN!”

Best mode of transportation… EVER!

Shaun and the girls playing with trains. I think daddy had as much fun as the girls.

Abby insisted on sitting with Byron during the train ride. Poor Byron had two hot and sweaty kids sitting on his lap in ninety degree weather.  What a trooper!

Shaun, Ellie and a rare picture of mommy thanks to Erika! Ellie was so excited to ride the train!

Enjoying the ride.  Such a sweet little face.

I asked her to show me her red tongue created  by the shave ice. She was happy to do so!

Cutest Little Engineer on the railroad!

Thomas the Tank Engine. Imagine seeing this as you randomly drive by and have no idea whats going on.

Despite all of the issues the adults had with the day, the kids had fun and that’s all that matters. After the day was done, we headed back home taking the route through Ventura and along the coast instead of through Grimes Canyon. The girls fell fast asleep which was a sure sign of a good time. We had fun and now have more memories to share not just with out family but with the Guerrero’s as well.

Tuesday in the Park

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Today after Abby’s dance class we met with my dear friend Lisa and her adorable little man Chase at the park. It was so great to catch up with them and see just how much he has grown!
The day was warm so we didn’t stay out long, but the girls had a chance to play. Abby loved playing with Chase almost as much as she loves going down the slides. Chase also did a great job and is the most calm and patient baby I have met.  He must take after his mama! He was about an hour past his usual nap time and I didn’t hear him cry or fuss about it. Instead he sat and played with mom and his favorite ball.
After an hour or so the heat won and chased us away when the slides became too hot to go down.  Its still April, right? Not sure where the heat came from but it put a damper on the fun we were trying to have. SO, we packed up our kiddos in the car and headed home. It was a wonderful day despite the heat and I hope we can make this something we do more often.

Easter at Underwood Family Farms

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Today the girls and I spent the day with Erika and Harrison. Abby was so excited to see him and I think its because she calls him her boyfriend. Yup, you read that correctly… her BOYFRIEND.  Its a good thing we love Harrison lots and think he is quite the catch for Abby, otherwise Shaun might have his work cut out for him. Listen to me… you would think they were 25! Nope, just two.
When we first arrived, it seemed like it would be crowded but we lucked out. It was the perfect day. The kiddos climbed haystacks, explored through the wheat field labyrinth, went on an Easter Egg hunt, said hello to the Easter Bunny, ate some lunch, picked strawberries, visited the horses, went down the tractor slide and played on the big train. What a busy day.  Abby talked very seriously with the Easter Bunny too; telling him about the Strawberry Shortcake DVD that she really wanted. Ellie loved riding in the wagon and even got Abby and Harrison to pull her along. She really enjoyed trying to keep up with the bigger kids and was so proud of herself when she picked her first strawberry on her own.

 

 

  

 
  
 

 

 

 

 
 

The kids ran themselves out over a course of about 4 hours. I am amazed they stayed awake long enough to drive to the bank! But eventually everyone gave in and passed out on the way home. The day was wonderful. The one and only downside to it? The sunburns. We discovered the hard way that our sun block was well past its expiration date. Luckily the girls just had red noses but mommy didn’t fair quite as well. You live and you learn. At least I know what I will be buying tomorrow!