Our NY Life

Goodbye to Our NY Life

2010-01-15T08:18:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that I am about to post this, but it's time to say goodbye to Our NY Life.

I want to thank everyone who has read along and enjoyed seeing what our NY Life was like this last year. What a great year for us.

For those friends who didn't make it out to visit us, I wish we were still there to show you around and provide a free place to stay, and for those of you who did make it out to visit....thanks for all the wonderful memories!

Life will be a lot different for us from here on out, but I'm looking forward to our future adventures here in our new, but familiar, Colorado life.

I will have another blog, but I'm unsure what it will look like or what I will name it. I hope to have it up and running before Baby Gus arrives in April, so please stay tuned.

The best way to find the new, not-yet-created blog, will be to go to my photography website, and click on the blog link. It is linked to this blog for now, but will be linked to the new blog when it arrives.

Thanks everyone, and God bless. Now go have an adventure.

"New York City. It will be a great place if they ever finish it."

Handmade Goodies

2010-01-11T09:18:00.000-05:00

I love getting handmade gifts. Especially from crafty friends. One day last week, I headed up to Janna's house with our friend Erin for lunch and a time to hang out and let the kids play. You may remember Janna and Erin visiting me in NYC for Janna's 30th bday last March. Check 'em out.

Well the most exciting thing is that we are all pregnant! Erin is due one week before me with her first, and Janna is due mid-June with her third. Pregnancy is so much more fun when you can share it with other pregos.

Janna surprised me with some Christmas presents that she made. Look at these adorable coasters she made and hand stitched for me!! I am super impressed with her embroidery skills. The Statue of Liberty cannot be the easiest thing.

And if you are a photographer and don't have a Shootsac, go get one. Then contact Janna for a custom shootsac cover. This fabric is what I used for Ava's bedskirt in her room, and I just love it!!

Thanks friend for all the wonderful gifts.

Last Days in NYC

2010-01-10T08:46:00.001-05:00

We had one full day in NYC before we flew home.

Unfortunately for us, it was bitter cold, so we didn't make it to Central Park, but that meant we got to ride in a lot of taxis...which made my pregnant self and the kids very happy.

We had breakfast at Tick Tock Diner, then wandered to a couple bookstores, but ended up at Strands, one of New York's best independent bookstores that boasts 18 miles of books. My friend Angela introduced it to me when she visited in November, and they have a great kid's section, so we ended up sitting there reading for quite a while. Oh, and bought some books, because they really do have the BEST prices. Curious George books for $2....everywhere else they are $4. Love it!!

After Strands, we headed back to the hotel room, and that's when all the sickness started. So we ordered room service for dinner and watched a movie in bed. Ahhh.....

The kid's favorite thing about our hotel room, other than the fact we let them jump on the beds, was that we had
an amazing view of Times' Square, and there was the perfect kid-sized ledge by the window to give them the best seats in the house. Each morning the first thing they would do is climb up there and watch the sun come up over the tall buildings.

And this was our view on New Year's Eve Day with the City being blanketed in snow. Very peaceful from 38 floors up...

Happy New Year etc...

2010-01-09T19:00:00.002-05:00

So Happy New Year everyone!

Is it really 2010? This is the year I will have our third baby and we will celebrate our 10th anniversary. Not to mention a new job for Wade, and a new place to live. Quite the way to begin this decade, don't you think?

So it's been a few days, understandably, since I've even thought of the blog. We have now officially been in Colorado just over a week, and I can't believe all that has happened in these last 7 days.

To begin, we flew back on New Year's Eve, while NYC was getting blanketed by snow. It was gorgeous to see (Wade blames me because I told him I would love to see the City in snow one more time), but it made travelling a little hairy. Ava was sick. Literally. To the point we had to buy her new clothes at LaGuardia. Ya, that kind of sick. And then that kind of sick on the plane.

The plane ride was one of the worst experiences I've had flying. To begin, we didn't have assigned seats. Who knows why. We went to check in the night before and there were no seats available. After our flight was delayed a bit, they finally got us seats...2 in the exit row, and 2 a few rows behind.

"Your children will have to sit by themselves as they are not allowed in the exit row."

Excuse me??

Oh, and by the way, did you not notice I am REALLY pregnant? I don't think pregos are allowed in the exit row either.

So after 5 minutes of some creative seat switching, I was able to sit with the kids and Wade was in the exit row. Only problem is the kids were not allowed to "visit" him in the exit row, and I was not allowed to trade seats with him so we could tag team taking care of the kids...one of whom was ill. Like being in a tiny squished seat at 6 months pregnant isn't bad enough! Oh, and I couldn't convince any passengers around me to switch seats with Wade....why wouldn't you trade someone for an exit row??!!! Hello???!!!!!!

But we made it. 4 1/2 hours later, we made it. I could have kissed the ground at DIA.

So this last week, the illness has spread to Tyson, myself, Wade, both my parents, and even Wade's parents. So stay away unless you want us to spread "the love"!!!

We are slowly recovering, settling into my parent's house (God bless 'em), and getting used to the idea that we actually moved back.

Oh, and did I mention we bought a house a couple days ago? What could have been a lllooooonnnngggggg house hunt (mostly because I am fairly particular), we found one we could agree on that only had one negative thing going for it. It's in Highlands Ranch. A place we thought we would never live. It is the ULTIMATE in suburban living, but we're giving it a whirl. Love the house, the layout, the space, and the schools. I honestly would have loved to buy an older home and done some really cool renovations, but at this stage in our life, I just don't think that is best for us.

My new goal in life is to make a 3 year old suburban home look like it has "character". I will be adding crown moulding, some hardwoods (a little bit down the road), and some bead board. I am kind of excited to marry the modern conveniences with my antique/flea market/modern style. Maybe my new blog should be called, "Our Suburban Life". What do you think?

We close at the end of January, which is a big blessing, so we should be in our new digs by the first week of February.

So to wrap up my ramblings, I just went through some pictures from the last couple weeks, and I have a few more posts on this blog before I bid it farewell. I WILL have another blog that will be linked to my photography website, but I do not know what it will be called or exactly when I will start it.

But for now, I wanted to share my favorite photo from Christmas morning. My favorite thing on Christmas morning is to get up before ANYONE and just sit by the tree and soak in the atmosphere. I could just sit and stare at a decorated tree while the rest of the world sleeps....

P.S. My Christmas present from Wade is priceless. He downloaded my entire blog into a .pdf file that we can publish as a book. I looked at it, and just started bawling. Why wouldn't I? This has been one of the most incredible and exciting years in my life. We will wait until my very last post to do final editing and then I will have a memento to last a lifetime. I love it Wade. And I love you.

Goodbye Rye

2009-12-29T19:21:00.002-05:00

Movers are gone, cars were loaded on a flatbed truck, the house is empty, and we've said goodbye to Rye and our wonderful friends. The past couple days have been somewhat a blur with our lives being turned completely upside down and nothing being "normal". Please remind me to never move cross country again when I'm 6 months pregnant!

Luckily Wade and I have been able to keep our sense of humor through the whole thing. I love my husband. Not sure if I've ever told you before.

It is bitter cold here in NY, and we boarded the Rye train all bundled up with our two suitcases and our HUGE car seats. We are staying in the city for the next couple nights and will spend tomorrow running around NYC as a family for the last time. We're staying a couple blocks off of Times Square and we're on the 38th floor. We have an amazing view of the square and if we were here 1 more night, we could watch the festivities and the ball drop from our hotel room window!!

Goodnight!

Happy Anniversary!

2009-12-27T09:01:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to give my big sis and b-in-law a shout out. Happy Anniversary! What is it....18 years?? I think that's right. They got married in 1991. And it was a swanky affair, let me tell you.

Happy Anniversary guys. I hope you're able to get out and celebrate today.

I'm off to IKEA this morning with two neighbors. Sigh....my last IKEA run. Have they broken ground yet in Denver??? You Denver people will LOVE it!!!!!!!!!!!! Then back to the house to finish some packing, organizing etc. Movers are showing up tomorrow am to get us packed up!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T07:10:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas everyone!

Sledding at the beach

2009-12-24T13:36:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas Eve!

We decided to go sledding at the beach today with all the leftover snow from last weekend's storm. Never thought I would be able to say that I went sledding at the beach! Perfect weather, lots of sun, and a lot of laughs...

Princesses, Princesses, Princesses

2009-12-22T15:24:00.002-05:00

So we're back in New York, and actually had zero flight trouble given all the snow New York got this last weekend. Yeah!

I'm still a bit of an emotional wreck, as I'm trying to keep my head screwed on straight these next days. I'll just blame the pregnancy. Luckily there is no packing or anything to do until after Christmas, and even then, the movers will be packing everything for us on Monday. I just need to get some things washed and organized....oh, and I need to get the washing machine fixed as it decided to blow up the day we flew to Denver.

So today was Ava's last day of preschool and go figure, I was the one crying, not her. I was fine all day (Wade and I were helping parents in her class today) until it was time to say goodbye and she gave her teachers a hug. Oh boy. Do you know how embarrassing it is to cry in front of a room full of 4 year-olds with their parents waiting on the sidelines?? I ran straight for the tissue box. Oh well, let it flow. I have loved Rye and our time here. It's been hard, but I have loved it.

So I found these pictures on my iPhone that I haven't had a chance to post. A couple Friday's ago, I gave Ava an early Christmas present which was a date with me into the City to see a special screening of The Princess and the Frog. We had assigned seats and special passes to go meet ALL, yes ALL, the princesses after the movie. It was pretty cool. I used to think that Ava would be a tomboy and NOT AT ALL into princesses as she used to only play with Thomas trains, but one trip to Disney world changed that!! Thanks Grandpa. :) We love it.

We stood in line to get a picture with each princess except for the newest, Tiana, because the line was just too long and we were getting tired. It was a great night, and I think the movie was really well done, but I have to say that good vs. evil was definitely present in this movie, with good winning (of course)...but the evil was pretty evil, and may not be appropriate for some. I covered Ava's eyes a couple times.

Here's a self-portrait at our Rye train station waiting for our train. It was cold!!

And a quick stop by the Rockefeller tree...and oh my, the wrinkles are getting more noticeable. When did those happen???!!!

The movie theater...

And bring on the Princesses...let's see if you can name them all (even though their names are on the background).

And a quick peek at Princess Tiana.

My body thinks I'm in NY

2009-12-20T07:07:00.004-05:00

Good morning...

It's a whopping 5am in Denver, and I've been awake for an hour. I'm sitting in the dark in my in-laws basement trying not to type too loudly so I wake up Wade. I've been waking up pretty much at 4am every morning because my body is on NY time, and I cannot turn my brain off when my body wakes up. Are you that way?? Yesterday I woke up crying, and at least I'm not doing that today. I woke up yesterday in a panic thinking that I would have to bring Baby Gus "home" to either my parent's house or a rental house and he/she would have to sleep in a box.

The last two days have been a whirlwind, and we have seen about 30 houses. Did we buy one?? In a word....no.

I can't tell you how much I love Colorado, but this transition back home is proving to be harder than I anticipated. I love living here, and I love being near family, and I love the mountains and the fresh air and the outdoor living, but I'm really having a hard time.

House hunting is proving to be a real challenge for us. Ok, me. There are so many neighborhoods and so many schools. Do we buy for the school district? Do we buy because of the house? If we buy for the school district, will I really love the house? My renovation blood is going to kick into high gear, and do I want to do that with 3 little ones and a new baby? And will I over-renovate....again? If we buy for the house, will we like the schools? Is there any room for equity growth? What about Wade's commute? What about being near family? Suburb living, or city living?? Can I really live in the burbs?? I won't be able to walk to my grocery store!!!! Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!!!! Turn off brain!!!!!!!

These are the thoughts that run through my head at 4am.

One thing we know for sure is that it is a great time to buy a house. Rates are low, and I think we can get a better deal now that we could two years ago. It's just a matter of finding the right combo that fits.

My prayer through this whole thing is that whatever house we buy, I want it to be a blessing to the seller. There are some hurting people out there and if we find the right house and it could be a blessing to some family out there who HAS to sell, well then that's the house I want to buy.

We head back to NY this afternoon, despite the blizzard they are having...I guess we should double check our flights....and the movers come in one week. ONE WEEK. I have one week left in NY. And I have to say goodbye to our life and friends there. And our cute house. And our neighbors. And Ava's preschool.

OK, now the tears are coming. So much for not crying today.

Moving

2009-12-14T10:41:00.002-05:00

I just realized today that the movers are coming two weeks from today to pack us up.

I'm freakin' out just a little bit....

We are heading to Denver on Thursday for a short two-day house hunting trip, and we also just found out today that our #1 house that we've been eyeing for the last month or so just got rented. I guess it was listed for sale or rent, and they ended up renting it. I cannot tell you how depressed I am! I had already moved in mentally (despite my best efforts not to), and I had already come up with some rearranging of just a couple walls. Argh.

I know "there's something better out there", which I've already told myself, but quite honestly that doesn't help. I just want to wallow in my self-pity for a few days.

So I'm hoping we see some great things while we're home, and I'm just praying for an open heart and mind for me. I'm just too picky!

P.S. We had a great time in DC this last weekend, but you know what? I forgot to take pictures! So lame. Anyway, the show went well, and I sold some stuff, but more importantly we got to see friends and hang out with family before we move.

Happy Monday everyone!

Come see me in Washington DC

2009-12-11T08:44:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone!

If you happen to be in Washington DC, or the area, come see me! For 42 years, my aunt and uncle have hosted an open house to sell their wares. Mal is a potter and Judy does shibori silks. In recent years, they have invited other artists to join in, and I was able to participate about 5-6 years ago. Lucky for me, I get to go again this year.

I'll be selling prints and cards, and there will be other local artists there as well. Good time to Christmas shop!

So we are all driving to DC in the morning and will stay with our good friends in Frederick, MD. Wade and the kids will probably go to a couple museums on Saturday and Sunday while I'm at the show, and then back to NY on Sunday.

More from the show...

Bon voyage Brad & Kendall!

2009-12-09T08:18:00.003-05:00

Brad & Kendall leave today. Sniff sniff. They have been troopers here while Wade and I have both been sick, we're distracted with moving, and our kids are acting out because they need our attention!

You guys are saints and we love you. Lucky for us they've both been here before and they have friends in the City. It's raining hard today which kind of matches my mood since I'm sad to see them go, but I'm glad that we'll get to see them more often once we move. That will make up for our lack of quality time during their visit.

We got one date night with them on Tuesday, and ate a great restaurant in the East Village, The Smith.

If you have an iPhone, go get the Shake It Photo app. It takes your picture like a Polaroid and then you shake it to get it to develop. So fun! And it gives it a bit of a vintage vibe.

So Brad and Kendall, thanks for coming to visit us and we'll see you in a few weeks in Denver. WE LOVE YOU!!!!

Sick of being sick

2009-12-08T15:24:00.005-05:00

Well Wade is sick in bed today with 102 fever. It has been one thing after the other these last two weeks. And not all bad things either, but just one thing after the other!

Baby Gus ultrasound scare: BAD THING TURNED GOOD
Hosted a fabulous baby shower: GOOD THING
Ava got sick: BAD THING
Tyson got sick: BAD THING
Thanksgiving with fabulous neighbors: GOOD THING
Mom and Emma visit: GOOD THING
Kids still kind of sick: BAD THING
Fun in NYC with Mom and Emma: GOOD THING
Mom and Emma fly home: BAD THING
Brad and Kendall fly in: GOOD THING
I get sick: BAD THING
Kids still coughing and snotty: BAD THING
Wade sick: BAD THING

We are sick of being sick!

Sick

2009-12-05T15:15:00.003-05:00

Sick in bed today. Throat hurting, head pounding, and just feeling cruddy. I think the last two weeks of the kids being sick off and on has finally caught up with me.

Mom and Emma flew home yesterday and Brad and Kendall (good friends from Denver) flew in. I went to bed straight after dinner, and haven't gotten up since. Good thing for us, Brad and Kendall are the EASIEST houseguests EVER!

All I wanted for my birthday....

2009-12-04T10:52:00.001-05:00

...is Jude Law on Broadway in Hamlet.

My oh-so-tricky husband gave me my present at breakfast...which was an apple slicer and potato peeler. NICE!!!

But that was from the kids.

Then he gave me Hamlet tickets!!!! Oh, I love him (Wade, that is).

Since Mom and Emma are in town, we had built in babysitters and Wade took me out to dinner at Celsius in Bryant Park. This restaurant only pops up (literally) once a year at Christmas when the park installs an ice skating rink over the grassy park.

The park was beautifully lit with Christmas lights, there was Christmas music on the ice rink, and all the Christmas craft stalls were set up and open. Our table was right up against the windows and we looked down onto the ice rink. GORGEOUS!!! It was one of THOSE New York moments.

It's just amazing that in a few short weeks, all this will be taken down and Bryant Park will be back to normal.

And true to our tradition, I like to take pictures of our food. It was soooo yummy. I had a salad and Wade had steak and fries. For dessert, I had chocolate molten cake a la mode, and Wade had chocolate chip cookies a la mode. Although those cookies had NOTHING on the ones he and his Mom make.

After strolling hand in hand through all the craft vendor stalls, we made our way over to Times Square to see Jude.

His performance was unbelievable as Hamlet and I walked out of that theater emotionally drained from watching the 120% he puts into that role. Not to mention it was 11pm, and WAY past my bedtime.

So Wade, thank you for making my 35th so memorable. I wouldn't want to spend my birthday with anyone but you. I love you.

P.S. I love my apple slicer too. :)

Boxes at my back door...

2009-12-02T20:51:00.001-05:00

...make me happy!

I love finding boxes that the mailman leaves at my back door, and this one was extra fun. It was for me!!

We spent the day in the City at Macy's with the kids so they could see Santa, and when we got home, I had a surprise waiting for me at my back door!

Tomorrow is my bday, and I love getting packages!!! Thank you thank you thank you Erin!!! I love my new coasters!!!!! And the card?? Priceless!!! Love you!

American Girl Store

2009-12-01T19:18:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I gave in.

Ava has been talking about an American Girl doll for a year now...ever since we moved to NY. Both my nieces have one (or three), and while I think they are great, they are spankin' expensive!!!

BUT, I told Ava we would get her one before we left New York, since the big mega store is here in NYC. Of course I was planning on buying her one for her 6th birthday (in 2011), but since our NY stay has been cut short, we had to do it now!

Since cousin Emma is in town, we booked a dinner reservation in the American Girl Cafe, met Mom and Emma after they saw the Rockettes, and we bought Ava her blond-hair-green-eyed doll.

We dined, with the dolls of course, in a pink dining room and enjoyed yummy appetizers, pink lemonade, chicken pot pie, chocolate mousse, cakes and cookies.

This is a must do for every little girl in NYC. And I guarantee your little girl will go home happy...mine did.

Rye Street Fair

2009-11-29T15:49:00.001-05:00

Rye closed down downtown Purchase Street today for it's annual Christmas Street Fair. They had Santa, reindeer, train rides, sleigh rides, bouncy castles, food, and all sorts of fun.

Ava really wanted to get her face painted, so we waiting patiently in line and she got transformed into a snow princess!

She doesn't look very happy, but I swear she was as happy as a kid in a candy store.

Cutting down our christmas tree...

2009-11-28T21:35:00.000-05:00

...makes me happy. VERY happy!!

There is nothing like cutting down your own tree and having your house smell of fresh pine. We used to have an artificial tree, but a few years ago we started cutting down our tree the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It gets a little tricky with kids...especially in Colorado when you have to wander the National Forest a while to find your PERFECT tree, but we've found a great place here that works great for our family.

Jones Family Farm.

I have vivid memories of cutting down our tree in the mountains of Colorado growing up, and I remember one particular year Dad leading us into the forest with snow thigh deep and I believe our little Jeep got stuck more than once. Very Griswold-esque. Ever had one of those experiences??!!!

The nice thing about Jones is that you don't have to wander very far to find a tree, since it is a tree farm, and for a pregnant lady with two young kids?? Heaven!

Mom and Emma flew in yesterday from Phoenix for their NYC Gran/Grandaughter week, so we had two more helping hands. I'm sorry, but Christmas in Phoenix just doesn't sound appealing! Luckily my sister and her family will be in Colorado for Christmas.

The property had candy canes scattered all around, and Tyson just had to have his picture at every one. "Nother picture, Gran?" Just look at this cousin love Emma is giving him!

I just love Mom's face in this one. Pure delight. Tyson was a big boy this year and helped Daddy cut it down. Meanwhile, Ava stood back with me and took pictures with her camera. Like Mother like daughter!

The farm binds your tree for you, then we all enjoyed lunch in the van while Wade mounted our White Pine beauty to the roof.

Then off to the barn for some play time...

...and a letter to Santa. Ava's letter said, "Santa, Barbie please. Ava."

Yummy homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookies at the Christmas canteen...

...and checking out the fresh garland and cones for sale.

We got the tree home no problem, and we picked out such a PERFECT tree that it needed NO trimming!! It was the perfect height, and I LOVE white pine. The needles are so soft it's like touching velvet! Mom and the kids made construction paper chains while we listened to Christmas music and decorated the whole house.

I LOVE CHRISTMAS!!!

A Little More of Fall....

2009-11-27T05:34:00.002-05:00

So before the Advent season kicks into high gear, I wanted to share some more "fall" with you. I still haven't shared our whole Vermont trip with you.

I don't think I've told you before how much I loved Vermont. Oh...I have? I did?? Oh, sorry. Well I do.

So this was a day we spent at Shelburne Farms. And I use the term "farm" lightly. The farms I've spent time in England and South Dakota are farms. This was an estate that oh-by-the-way has sheep, cows and makes their own cheese.

It's 1400 acres. A Vanderbilt estate whose grounds were designed by the same guy who did Central Park. Ya, it's no ordinary farm. We hopped in a wagon for a grand tour of the estate. Check it out...

So this is the "house". The summer house for the family, when they wanted to get away to the country after being in New York. Nice, eh? It backs up to Lake Champlain and you can see the New York Adironacks on the other side of the lake. It's now a working B&B, and if I had the opportunity or the funds to stay as a guest, I would!

Here's the back....

And the view from the back....

We did decide to splurge a little bit and we all (4 adults and 4 kids under 4) had brunch in the house. This restaurant is a fine china kind of place, so we had an adult sitting on either side of a child, and we brought in our arsenal of car toys for everyone to play with. We only had one drink spill, and overall it was quite a success! We took the last reservation time, so we were practically the only guests eating, so that helped too.

It was an amazing breakfast. Everything was homemade and farm fresh. Tyson enjoyed his pancakes with real Vermont maple syrup...

Then we took a little time to let the kids play off their maple syrup and fresh orange juice high.

And then onto the "barn". No, this isn't the house. This is for the animals.

Here is our transportation. The kids LOVED it.

Tyson and Evan checking out the big tractor tires. Although I have to say, this tire has NOTHING on the South Dakota tires I've sat in.

The barn is now used for educational purposes. They host all sorts of children's programs throughout the year. This is also where the farm makes their own cheese. The whole place is geared towards children and the children's farm, so there was plenty for us to see and do.

We got to meet and pet a baby calf...

...play dress up....

...go inside the largest chicken coop I've ever seen....

....play "farm"...with John Deere of course....

....and meet and milk a cow!

Oh, and Ava and Wade learned how to identify different kind of animal poop. You never know when that life skill may come in handy!

And then back to our wagon to finish our tour back to the visitor center to taste all the homemade cheddar.

If you ever get the chance, a visit to Shelburne Farms is a must!!!!

Oh, and this is Tyson on the wagon ride. I entered my kids for the Gap casting call, and this is one of the pictures of Tyson I entered. Can't you see him hanging in Gap Kids windows nationwide???!!!

Happy Day after Thanksgiving!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T13:35:00.002-05:00

I hope you and yours have a special and blessed Thanksgiving this year! Even though we are celebrating far away from family, we have so much to be thankful for!

Gobble gobble.

My Head is Full....Literally

2009-11-25T07:28:00.003-05:00

I've been awake since 4:30am. I feel like my Mother. I didn't think was supposed to happen until you're 50 or something!

Well I woke up because I, of course, had to pee because that's what pregnant women do at 4:30 in the morning. But then I wanted to check on Tyson's fever (he was at 103.4 last night), and then I realized how much my throat hurt, and then Baby Gus woke up and wouldn't stop kicking me, and then my brain turned on. There was no hope of going back to sleep.

This week has been exhausting, but surprisingly enough, I'm doing OK. With last Friday's ultrasound scare, then Ava getting sick, then Tyson getting sick, and trying to keep myself well through all this....it's pretty exhausting.

Wade is taking 1/2 day off today, and I CA-NNOT wait. Did I tell you his last day of work in Monday? Can you believe it? I can't.

So I know I threw out the fact that we are moving back to Colorado a couple posts ago, and I thought I should explain.

WE ARE MOVING BACK TO COLORADO. At Christmas. No wonder I can't turn my brain off!

Back in September, Wade got a call from one of his Denver clients (his favorite) wondering if he would be interested in working for them. Talk about left field. We spent a couple weeks thinking, talking and praying about the two options before us:

Stay at KPMG in NY and continue his career here and wherever the firm may take us, or

Leave NY early, move back to Colorado (aka home) and have a job that he's excited about AND allows Wade to be home for dinner on weeknights??!!

It was a hard decision, but we obviously chose option 2. He's been with KPMG 11 years now, and it is hard to say goodbye, but taking this job and moving back to Denver is ultimately what is best for our family. The hardest part for me is leaving NY. Honestly, how could you NOT love living here? Other than the cost of living of course.

Since Wade's last day with the firm is next week, he gets to use most of his vacation before we leave. Which means we get the next few weeks all to ourselves to run around and be tourists in NYC during Christmas!! I could not be MORE excited to have him home. We'll spend a quiet Christmas here, just us, then have movers come and pack us up. We hope to be home by New Years.

So that's our story. We have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. An amazing year in NY, a soon-to-be healthy family, a healthy pregnancy, and an opportunity to be back home in 2010.

Dana's Baby Party

2009-11-23T20:36:00.003-05:00

Have I ever told you that my dream is to be a freelance photographer for magazines? OK, I said it. That's my dream.

I love to photograph parties, events, places and details. I would love to photograph for Real Simple, Country Living or Cottage Living...if it was still published!! Still mourning the loss of my favorite magazine...

So yesterday I helped host my fabulous neighbor Dana's baby shower with Dana's good friends Diane and Heidi. Dana is having her first baby, a girl, and is due in February. I can't believe I won't be here to meet her, and I won't be here for her to Baby Gus!!!

We hosted it at the Rye Square House Museum, which is one of the oldest houses in Rye, built in 1730 I think. It was a great location, and I had sooooo much fun getting all the decor together.

Check it...

The front door with baby things put together by Diane.

Diane and Heidi also did this this clothespin line filled with baby clothes for Dana. Isn't it adorable?? It looked so great and they had to get Dana's baby a Brooklyn onesie since that's where Dana lived before Rye.

I had a lot of fun doing this setup. I got baby pictures and young girl pictures of Dana and displayed them on my vintage potato chip holder that I snagged for $6 at the Paris Street Market in Denver. This is a staple in my house and holds pictures, Christmas Cards, announcements, vintage postcards....anything that I want to display.

I also framed Dana's ultrasound picture and used my scrabble letters so everyone would know what they are looking at. Idea courtesy of my sister as she always has scrabble letters in her house.

On to the cakes. Oh my. It doesn't hurt that our neighbor across the street (the one whose chocolate shop we went to in Boston a couple weeks ago) used to be a pastry chef. What? You're offering to do a cake for the shower?? Um, let's think about that one. YES!!!!!

Wow, it was good, and Wade is enjoying some of the leftovers.

OK, now this was too cute. Diane and Heidi put together this diaper cake. Every diaper was individually rolled and taped down and set up as a tiered cake. Is this not the coolest thing ever? So it was double duty...decoration and gift. Dana is set for the first week (OK, maybe just the first few days) of diaper changing!

This next project belonged to me and Tyson. We went on a nature walk at the Nature Center and collected sticks, then spray painted them white. I ordered these tissue paper flowers from Oriental Trading Company and displayed them in white vases as the food table centerpieces. Then we pinned extra baby socks and stuff to them.

So each centerpiece cost like $3. Love it!

I love all my enamelware, some of which I picked up recently at flea markets here, and I used them for forks and napkins. White white white was the theme.

There were two fireplaces in the room, so I bought scrapbook paper and sewed a garland of flags to go across the mantels and used my telephone pole glass things that I picked up at Hell's Kitchen Flea Market in NYC as weights. I also used my spinning gourds from that I won from Janna's blog to decorate the mantel.

By the way, the flag idea also came from my sister. She made some for Tyson's shower and we hung them in his room. So Dana took these home and can use them to decorate in her baby room. And again...like $3 per garland.

Dana's mom came up from Savannah, which was so special. She reminds me on my own Mom and I just got attached to her immediately. She helped us shop for food at Costco on Saturday and was such a trooper.

Diane and I had asked everyone coming to write a wish or blessing for Dana that they could read (if they wanted) at the shower and bless Dana and her baby girl.

Lots of tears were shed, and it was one HUGE love fest.

It was such a great and special afternoon, and I'm so glad I had the chance to be a part of it. Love you Dana!!

It's a new day

2009-11-21T07:17:00.001-05:00

I woke up this morning kind of in a blur of yesterday's happenings. I can't (but also can) believe how emotionally overwhelming yesterday was. Most who know me well know that I am not great at showing emotions, let alone crying. It's like that song "Stand in the Rain" by Superchick...."The shadows are long and she fears if she cries that first tear, the tears will not stop raining down".

That's pretty much how I am. If I allow the tears to come, which I need to do more often, the tears don't stop and I cry one of those cries where you can't catch your breath and all you do is blubber. But man, it feels good when it's over.

So that was me yesterday. As I sat in the doctor's office after I was told the baby had some bleeding on the brain, I was attempting to be strong and not let my mind wander down a path that would inevitably bring the downpour of tears. I had my children with me for crying out loud!! But after being left alone in an exam room for about 20 minutes alone with my thoughts, and my children who thought the exam table's stirrups (yes, THOSE stirrups) were meant to be a jungle gym, I completely lost it. Especially when Wade called and I had to explain what was going on.

Ava sweetly asked why my face was so red, and I think Tyson was oblivious to my emotional reaction. I had to explain to Ava what was going on and that the doctor's were talking to see what we could do for Baby Gus, and she just looked at me with her big hazel eyes and gave me a big 4 year old hug that melts a mother's heart. She is my compassionate one.

So that was the first of many episodes of "losing it" yesterday and I even surprised myself at how freely I was letting the tears flow...even though there was no confirmation as to what was really going on.

Looking back, I realize the emotion of yesterday was more than the possibility of my baby suffering, but was also a lot of cooped up emotion that I've been holding onto because we're moving back to Colorado. Yes, you read right. We are cutting our 3 year rotation in NY short. Wade got a job offer from a client in Denver that he accepted and we are moving back to Colorado just after Christmas. But that's a whole other post.

More than anything, I am grateful BEYOND WORDS to all our friends, family and neighbors who came around us in such a short amount of time to pray, take care of the kids, support, and petition God for healing. I wanted to share with you some of the encouraging words I received through e-mails, texts, facebook, and the blog. This is all IN ADDITION to many phone calls received, and all this came pouring in within just a couple hours.

Here are the words and prayers that carried me through yesterday...

Angela - "Wow. I am praying right now. I love you sweet friend."

My Dad - "I pray that our gracious Lord gave you a restful night of sleep and the joy of waking up to happy, healthy little children sounds. I’m sure there were lots of family hugs going all around this morning. There wasn’t more than a minute or two that you were out of my prayers for the 4-5 hours which inched by today until you again called mom on your way home. Believe me, it was difficult not to call you to rejoice, but I would only have broken down. I can only imagine how absolutely exhausted you all were tonight.It ’s experiences like this that make us far more sensitive and empathetic to others who bear more burdens than we could ever understand. Dear Jesus, we all are VERY humbled by your continuing, unmerited grace you shower on us all."

Melissa - "Praying! Psalm 139 got me through all the worry with Andy before he was born. I'm with Erin, Remove, Reverse and Restore! Love you!"

Aunt Shari & Uncle Bob - "Jodi called and alerted us to the stresses that your family is under right now. We are definitely praying that everything will turn out good. My Bible study/prayer group will also be praying. I love your friend's prayer: Re-move, Re-verse, Re-store! Two of my favorite verses that I rely on over and over: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the God of peace, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Phil. 4: 6-7. So rest assured! Take care and keep in touch.... you're in our thoughts and prayers"

Julie - "hey you,read your blog and i am lifting you up and praying like crazy. i had a similar scare with William's u/s and multiple cysts on his brain (and a variety of horrible scenarios as a result) and just reading your post brought me right back to that time. as Phil wisely counseled me through my moments of fear (there were many)---god does not make mistakes. so i pray HIS blanket of peace to cover you. he has hand crafted that little baby and is and will be glorified in his creation. all my love."

Marla - "Praying for you, Wade and baby Gus! I love Jeremiah 1:5. God knows Gus inside and out and loves him so, so much!!"

Cousin Jodi - "Praying for baby Gus and the rest of you! Remember everything is just as God intended."

Wendi - "Just read your blog.....I am so thankful to hear that all is well with baby Gus."

Erin - "Praying for this to be RE-versed, RE-moved, and RE-stored. The Lord is my Helper, I will not fear. Hebrews 13:6. In the Greek, Helper = Boethos which describes God as One who comes RUNNING when we cry for help. Describes the Lord as poised and read to rush to the relief of His children when they call for help. We got you covered Kristen."

My Mom - "You are being covered in prayer even as I type. I have called and spoken with Sharon so all the So. Dakota family is praying. Joanne and family and friends are praying as well as our own prayer chain at church and friends in the Springs. God is wit h you in every circumstance and will be your strength and fort.Just know how Dad & I wish we could be there to wrap you in our arms of love...our prayers and our loving God will be so much better though."

My sister - "Love you, sis. Been praying and praising right along with you from AtoZ."

Dana - "Please let me know what I can do for you. I am here for you my friend! Sending you lots of love."

This whole experience may have been a mistake in reading the ultrasound by our first technician, but I really do believe we experienced a miracle yesterday and I will be forever praising God for his faithfulness in our lives. I am constantly amazed at the family of God and how quickly everyone comes together.

As my neighbor Berl put it best, I enlisted my "talented group"...referring to my fellow prayer warriors. He has no idea how true that is!!!

Last, I of course to post some sort of picture. This scene greets me at my front door, and I think it's message hits home in a special way this Thanksgiving.

Ultrasound Update

2009-11-20T19:56:00.002-05:00

Thank you so much for your prayers!

Praise Jesus, because not only did the specialist NOT find any hemorrhaging on the baby's brain, but he didn't find anything that could even remotely look like hemorrhaging!!! He and the ultrasound tech looked at every angle of Baby Gus's brain for over 1/2 hour, and we are very confident in their conclusions.

We are so relieved, and we're both nursing big headaches tonight after such an emotional roller coaster of a day.

Thanks again friends. I'll be talking to my regular doctor on Monday to determine where to go from here. I admit, I'm walking away with some confusion as to what happened and what it was they saw, but more than anything, I'm just so thankful.

Thanks again for your prayers.

Prayer Needed

2009-11-20T12:54:00.004-05:00

Hi faithful blog readers.

I had a follow up appt this morning for yesterday's ultrasound and was told there is some bleeding on Baby Gus's brain. I was told best case scenario is because I'm only 20 weeks along, the baby's brain can self-adjust through the rest of the preganancy. Worst case scenario is cerebral palsy.

I am seeing a specialist this afternoon 2:30pm ET, 12:30pm Mountain Time. He will do an ultrasound and come to his own conclusion. If an MRI is needed, we will get one.

Wade came home from work, and my neighbor is watching the kids for me. I ask you to please pray in the words that my friend Erin prayed for me...."RE-move, RE-verse and RE-store". Jesus is the Great Healer and Comforter, so He can heal or give us the strength to deal with whatever happens.

Thank you!!!

Jeremiah 1:5 "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I set you apart."

Baby Gus Ultrasound

2009-11-19T15:53:00.002-05:00

Today was "Baby Gus's" 20 week ultrasound, and no, we don't know whether Gus is a Gustave or Gustina! We've decided to actually show some restraint this time and be surprised.

So Gus's heart rate is in the 150's, which is where Ava and Tyson were...so the heartbeat is giving us no clues to the sex.

The kids and Wade came to the ultrasound and it was such a great experience. Gus gave us a quick wave (see below), and Tyson said as he was waving back, "Hi Baby Gus! I love you Baby Gus." It was pretty cool.

I think ultrasounds are so amazing. Not that I forget that I'm pregnant, but it's amazing to see this little person moving around and kicking and realizing what an amazing miracle it is to be carrying a child. The best is when you can see your baby kick and move on the big screen, and feel it at the same time. It's live TV baby!!!

Fun fact: Baby Gus has been to the top of the Empire State Building, but my other children have not. How cool is that?

Time to put my feet up!!!

2009-11-16T18:20:00.001-05:00

Angela flew back to Alabama today after 3 straight days in the City. I feel like I checked out of my life for 3 straight days to run (ok, waddle) around Manhattan taking in all the sights with my friend.

My feet hurt, my belly aches, but it was good.

It's time to put the feet up.

Pictures coming!

Boston

2009-11-11T07:13:00.006-05:00

Two days was perfect. A quick weekend getaway that we ALL loved.

We decided to drive up on Saturday morning, rather than getting in late Friday night. It was a quick 3 hour drive, and we were in our hotel parking lot by 9:30am. Fantastic!

The first thing on our list was the Boston Duck Boat Tour, and the kids had been talking about it for days. Once we told them we were going on a boat ride, but the boat had wheels and drove on the road, they were hooked. "Duck boat, duck boat!" That's all I heard around the house for two days. And, "Mommy, how does a boat have wheels on it??"

It was a bit pricey, but it was worth it, and it got me off my feet for an hour and a half. Our fearless tour guide, Mario, was great, and he even let the kids drive the Duck in the water. Tyson was the first to raise his hand and volunteer, and he steered us through the Charles River like a real pro.

The most interesting fact I learned on the tour? Did you know that most of downtown Boston is actually built on top of landfill??? From Charles Street (which used to be the edge of the Charles River) down towards Newbury Street. It's all on landfill!!! He was quick to point out how flat that part of town is. Crazy. I think part of lower Manhattan is that way too.

After a fabulous lunch, we wandered down Newbury Street and enjoyed looking in all the shops and restaurants, and the kids even stopped to play instruments with a local street performer.

Tyson got very distracted at an art gallery checking out the "baseball pictures".

Then on to the Boston Public Garden, the country's oldest public garden and world's smallest suspension bridge. And yes, it was all built on top of landfill.

Ava could not wait to get to the duck statues from Make Way for Ducklings, and she along with all the other children in Boston are keeping the backs of Mrs. Mallard and Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack all nice and shiny.

After a quick Starbucks break, we wandered through one of my favorite neighborhoods (because it is nothing but eye candy), Beacon Hill. I love window boxes, and Beacon Hill didn't disappoint. Everyone had the most tasteful and beautifully filled window boxes. GORGEOUS!!!!

Cobblestone driveways, brick sidewalks and gas street lights. What more could you want in a neighborhood. No wonder you have to win the lottery to live in that neighborhood.

After a great night at our hotel, which included a free upgrade to a suite...HEAVEN, we started our morning over in Cambridge eating breakfast at Sound Bites. My friend Julie had taken my friend Angela and I there years ago, and the memory of their fresh fruit and amazing cooked breakfasts still lingered. So I talked Wade into going. He kept asking me all weekend..."Why do our days revolve around where we are eating?" And this is why. Check out this amazing spread of food.

We quickly walked off our breakfast around Harvard Square and the Harvard campus while the kids took a serious power nap, and then we ended our afternoon at Burdick Chocolates, a little chocolate store and cafe that our neighbor across the street used to manage. She told me explicitly what to order: Hot chocolate, skim milk, and milk chocolate, not dark. It did NOT disappoint. Although it was a bit hot for Tyson.

A stop at IKEA on the way home for $1 (yes, it was on sale) for meatballs, potatoes and lingonberries ended our weekend perfectly!!!

P.S. My good friend Angela (who I lived in Paris with), is coming to visit tomorrow for a girl's weekend. Today is her 40th birthday, and her husband is sending her to NYC for a few days. Keep tuned in for our adventures the next few days! She just got a cast off her foot, and with me starting to waddle, we should be quite the pair around town.

Our weekend away...

2009-11-09T20:18:00.001-05:00

Look where we went this weekend! Boston is only 3 hours away. GREAT weekend getaway.

More of Boston later!

Daylight savings stinks...

2009-11-05T06:30:00.002-05:00

...literally.

Oh wait, that's Tyson's room where Presta (our dog) threw up at 5am this morning after Tyson sneaked into our room. The joys of parenthood.

Daylight savings stinks.

I'm not really quite sure why we have daylight savings. I've heard because of farmers, the atomic clock...who knows. All I know is that it was NOT invented by someone with small children.

Our kids, especially Tyson, have been getting up at 5am everyday. He sneaks into our room, or he thinks he does. So then I'm awake, put him back in bed, he screams, Ava wakes up, Presta wakes up, I have to pee, and then the morning just crumbles from there. And it's only 5am.

This morning was especially bad. So I'm sitting in the dining room at 6:30am writing this while the kids are in Ava's room "reading". They know they have to wait for their moon and flower lights (from IKEA and on timers) to come on before they can go to the playroom or up to our room, but they have not been patient enough this week to wait.

It's not like they are going to bed any earlier. Bed at 8pm, wait for lights to come on in the morning. Last week was fine! But now....now that it gets light at 6am or before....bed at 8pm, up at 5am??? IT MAKES NO SENSE!!!!!!!!

So again, we've been awake since 5am everyday. No wonder I've been going to bed at 8pm every night.

Any one else think Daylight savings stinks????

Lord, give me patience and wisdom!!!

Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO

2009-11-02T07:21:00.003-05:00

After the Brooklyn Flea, we drove to DUMBO (Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass) to hop on the Brooklyn Bridge boardwalk. Did you know when it was first built, NY residents were hesitant to go across it for fear of safety, so in 1884, a herd of 21 elephants were taken across to demonstrate its strength?

This was on the Manhattan side looking down towards the South Street Seaport. One of my favorite things about New York City, or any large city for that matter, are all the "hidden" places that you never see from the street. Rooftop decks especially. How fun to have your own quiet oasis in such a loud and busy city!

Then back to DUMBO and an amazing playground right on the East River. It was such a great day, but probably a bit too much walking for my pregnant self. No wonder I spent all of Sunday afternoon with my feet up!

Brooklyn Flea Market

2009-11-01T14:30:00.004-05:00

We have a list.

OK, I have a list. But I call it ours because that's what married people do, right?

Since we've lived here, the list has grown, but we keep marking things off. Who doesn't like marking things off a list??!!!

So Saturday we marked two things off this list: The Brooklyn Flea, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

What could make me happier than seeing my loves walking hand in hand to a flea market??!!

Like father like son....checking out the bikes!

One reason I love this flea market is all the AMAZING food that is available. We bought an amazing wood fired white pizza for $9. The food vendor brought in a portable wood fire stove and the dough and ingredients were all made fresh on site. Amazing pizza.

And these were my finds for the day! Vintage tupperware snack tubs? Yes please. Three white frames for my collection for $15? Score! And an adorable jar...

Brooklyn Bridge to come...

Potato Head Pumpkins

2009-10-31T09:11:00.001-04:00

Oh, am I behind in posting photos. Oi. I have been going to bed at 8am (or earlier). I am convinced I am re-living the 1st trimester without the nausea!

This week the kids got a really fun care package from Grandma and Grandpa. We are big fans of Mr. (and Mrs) Potato Head, so who knew they made kits for pumpkins??!!

The kids were thrilled to put together their pumpkins and display them on the front stoop. Of course Ava is a princess and Tyson is a pirate. The other pumpkins are Wade, Me and baby Gus. Wade and I (and Gus) didn't get around to decorating our pumpkins, but at least we're all represented...

I am my father's daughter...

2009-10-30T07:08:00.002-04:00

I am my father's daughter.

I look through magazines and pull out articles on places I want to go. I keep them in a 3 ring binder in plastic sheet protectors. Yes, I am my father's daughter.

The biggest difference is that I look through magazines like Country Living, Cottage Living (I cried when they stopped publishing it, but I have ALL my copies), and other such magazines. I think my Dad mostly looks at RV magazines. But at the core, we're the same.

So for our Vermont vacation, I pulled out my binder and planned pretty much our entire trip around a great article in Country Living featuring the Lake Champlain region in Vermont. Voila! I knew where we were going on vacation.

American Flatbread was one of the yummy restaurants featured in the article. If you ever find yourself in Burlington, go check it out. Local ingredients, real wood oven and homemade beer (not that I had any).

Burlington is a great town. Just don't forget your Birkenstocks.

Ben & Jerry's

2009-10-28T13:51:00.003-04:00

My three favorite flavors. A trip to Vermont is not complete without going to the Ben & Jerry's factory for a tour and taste!

The Elephant Trunk Flea Market: Take Two

2009-10-28T07:27:00.000-04:00

You may or not remember when I attempted to take (or drag) my family to the Elephant Trunk Flea Market, New England's "largest" flea market. Well, if not, you can read about my disastrous attempt here.

I knew I could never convince Wade to try again with me, despite employing all the feminine wiles I could muster. So I took the kids by myself since he was out of town.

We started our day eating at McKinney & Doyle, in the small town of Pawling, NY. Some friends had told us it was a MUST DO for brunch on the weekends, with the most amazing blueberry pancakes. Since it was close to flea market, we went! And it was worth it. The kids enjoyed the blueberry and chocolate chip pancakes, and I had the most amazing omelet with fresh baked bread. Ahhhhh, I'm hungry just thinking about it. Wanna make me happy? Just cook me a really big hot breakfast with all the fixings. Especially when I'm pregnant...I'll consider naming my kid after you!!

Then it was off to flea market in New Milford, CT. And yes, it was open this time. Note to self: only open on Sundays. It does cost $2 per adult to get in (kids free), but to wander in an open field with 200-300 vendors? Totally worth it.

I have to warn you that there is a mixed bag of vendors. Some good, some not so good. There were a few vendors selling bulk socks out of cardboard boxes, so not everyone was selling stuff that I was drawn too, but I still had a good time. AND the sun was shining and the trees were gorgeous.

Of course we left with a few treasures. It's hard not to walk away from a flea market without a Little Golden Book. Ava picked this one out, as I only let them have 1. $3.00 per book! So much for the $0.25 cent cover price. :)

I also found some great enamelware to go with my collection at home. These two small boxes with lids are perfect on my desk for holding (and concealing) all sorts of knick knack desk stuff.

The larger enamelware is going outside to hold the kid's sidewalk chalk. I kind of ran over our last enamelware bin holding the chalk. Oops. SOMEBODY left it out in the middle of the driveway. I won't name names, but the thing was DESTROYED. I think I was in a hurry that day.

Happy flea-ing!

Preview: More Povemba Kids

2009-10-27T07:26:00.003-04:00

I love the ages of these kids. I'm sure life with four kids is not always perfect, but I can't help think about when my kids will be that age.

I've been having a pretty rough few days with my own kids, and my pregnant belly is telling me I need to take it easy. Wade has been out of town for a long weekend, and then straight back to work, and I can tell the kids are missing him. They are acting out more, and I am getting tired of sending Tyson to time out. REALLY tired. And I need Wade too. Four straight days of single parenting has me worn out to the point I'm fighting getting sick. I have a big load of stuff from Costco that has been sitting in the car since yesterday, and I just can't bring myself to pick all that stuff up for the FOURTH time. You have to load it once into your cart, then onto the checkout belt, then into your car. And my pregnant self just doesn't want to do it again!!! (Don't worry, I already hauled in the perishables). Ava keeps asking, "Mommy, why are there soooo many diapers in the car?" And all I can say is, "Just because Ava. You never know when you may need 186 size 4 diapers!"

But I have to say that posting these pictures this morning has done my heart good. One of the reasons I love photography so much is that it takes your life and makes it stand still. Even if for a moment. And I love capturing those moments. A certain crooked smile, a laugh or a gesture caught in a still moment. I realized this morning that I need to look at my kids as a still moment and realize this time in our life is fleeting and will never happen again.

So no matter what today brings me, I am going to (and constantly praying that I can) look at my children as if through my camera. Mentally capturing who they are TODAY. Not tomorrow, not yesterday, but TODAY.

Here's to taking a moment to appreciate the blessings God has given you TODAY.

Lake Placid

2009-10-24T08:34:00.003-04:00

One of our favorite day trips we took while in Vermont was to Lake Placid, NY. The ferry from Vermont, across Lake Champlain to NY, was just about 10 minutes from the house. The kids were so impressed that cars could go on a boat ride too.

Here's some fall foliage on our drive to Lake Placid. Amazing! We felt like New York had more reds in their foliage than Vermont did, and some of the reds were almost pink. It was amazing.

Did you know Lake Placid is where the "miracle on ice" was? The 1980 USA hockey team winning gold? I tend to be horrible at remembering those facts (even though I saw the movie) unless I've actually been there. Can you imagine what the 1932 Olympics were like??

So for some reason, the only time Wade and I actually shop for ourselves is when we're on vacation. We hit it big at the Bass store on Main Street. BUY 1 PAIR OF LADIES BOOTS AND GET 2 FREE!!! Yes, you read that right. I got 3 pairs of boots for the price of 1!!! So here is Ava catching up with Wade to give him his wallet back. Thanks Wade. I LOVE my boots.

Pretty nice view from the golf course, eh?

Yes, those are the ski jumps.

I only made Wade "PULL OVER!!!!!" about 10 times on the way back to the ferry. But I think it was worth it, don't you??

Preview: The Povemba Kids

2009-10-22T08:31:00.000-04:00

Back in May, Ava's preschool had a silent auction to raise money for some improvements. Since we've lived in Rye, I have not put my name out there (at all) for photography services, but I decided to donate a photo session to the auction. Gottta get back in the saddle sometime!

Lo and behold, the preschool director bid and won the session! So we headed to the Nature Conservancy in Rye and hiked through the woods, to the open field, and then down to the beach area. There are a LOT of great photos, but thought I'd throw out a quick preview of her four beautiful children!

Enjoy Sheridan! More to come...

Canoing on Lake Champlain

2009-10-21T15:17:00.003-04:00

What could be better than walking out the door to 200 ft of shoreline that is all yours? And then going for a canoe ride at sunset?

Wade took both kids out (brave man), and surprisingly Tyson did really well and sat super still. Poor Presta though. She cried and whined the entire time they were out in the lake, and I'm sure I took a few days off my life as well with worry. What is it about becoming a mother than make you such a wimp? Has anyone else experienced that? I used to be more adventurous and brave, but when my kids are involved, I just can't help but think of the worst case scenario. I hate that. It drives me nuts because I can't turn my brain off. Have you ever made up such ridiculous scenarios in your head that you actually start crying at the thought? Please tell me I'm not the only one.

Luckily I'm not in control of my fate or that of my kids. Praise the Lord.

Later in the week, I actually got brave enough to take Ava out by herself in the canoe. And yes, I took my camera with me. A bit of a risk, but look at the great picture I got of her!

Fortunately, we didn't see "Champ", the Lake Champlain creature. Check out this video.....there are a lot of sightings!! Creepy. No wonder I don't like to swim in lakes.

Could this BE more Vermont??????

2009-10-21T14:14:00.002-04:00

Ummmmm, hi??!!

The South Hero Applefest

2009-10-21T11:25:00.004-04:00

Apples, tractors, ponies, pumpkins, petting zoo, maple syrup, cider, pies, kettle corn, parades and games. That is Applefest in South Hero, VT.

Bring on fall!!

This is Tyson showing the baby cow his best "moo".

Vermont "Camp"

2009-10-19T13:13:00.007-04:00

Hello!

Yes, we're back from Vermont, and yes, I'm way overdue for a post. We got back safely last Wednesday and kind of hit the ground running, so to speak. Wade and I have both been fighting some sickness (probably due to Vermont...more later), and I just put Tyson to bed with 101 fever. Oi. Fall is definitely here!

So Vermont.

Wow.

Some of the top reasons why I LOVE Vermont and why it felt like home:

1. Every other car is a Subaru.

Wade just commented yesterday that you don't see many Subaru's in Rye. On Saturday mornings, the men are out on Main Street getting bagels, coffee, donuts etc for their family and they are driving their really nice BMW's and Mercedes sedans. He felt out of place getting bagels in his Subaru Forester. I then commented that on the weekdays, it's the moms or nannies with the kids getting bagels for lunch driving their really nice BMW or Mercedes SUVs.

2. Nature, nature, nature. God is so creative and loves to give us beauty. Vermont is no exception. Color everywhere!

3. People walking around wearing lots of fleece. Ahhhh, felt like Colorado.

4. Most cars on the road were not less than a year old.

5. People waved and smiled at you!

6. I did not see ONE McDonalds or other fast food joint.

So I commented to Wade on how Vermont felt like the East Coast's version of Boulder. Wade politely corrected me and said, "Kristen, I think it's the other way around." He's probably right. I'm pretty sure Vermont existed BEFORE Boulder.

So this is "the camp", (what the owners call it) or the house that we rented for the week with some friends. It's in the town of South Hero, on an island in Lake Champlain, VT, just 20 minutes outside of Burlington. It's about an hour from Canada.

It was a little more primitive than we expected, but it had all the modern amenities, except for heat, other than the one fireplace in the living room. If it hadn't been a colder week with the house being 42 degrees every morning, the one fireplace would have been plenty! Which is why I think Wade and I have been fighting off sickness.

So why was it primitive? Other than the heat issue, the walls were not finished, and had no insulation. There were some cracks in the floor where you could see daylight underneath and definitely some daylight coming through some cracks in the walls.

The house was built in 1895, and the owners have remodeled, but kept the old cabin feel. I really don't blame them, because the place really is idyllic, but would have been more so if it were 70 degrees outside, not 50.

We, or I, of course didn't pack enough warm clothes, so I wore many layers with my down vest and hat around most of the time. Some mornings it was warmer outside than in!!!! But you know what? We enjoyed every minute and really had a FABULOUS TIME.

It easily sleeps 14, so if you're looking for a summer getaway for a big group, definitely check it out. The owners are WONDERFUL people.

Here's the house from the water. The house comes with canoe, kayak and motorboat. We took the canoe out a number of times in the evening when the water was calm. It was amazing.

Here's our shoreline, which was ALL ours.

And the sunset from our bedroom window???? Hello gorgeous! You are looking at NY and the Adirondacks on the other side of the lake.

And now on to the bathrooms. There were two in the house, but only one shower. Once we got the water pressure issue fixed, showers were a dream. But before that we took showers in a dribble of water. Not so fun when you're already cold and trying to wash a 2 year old at the same time!!!

The downstairs bathroom off the kitchen had this great sliding barn door. I told Wade I want one of these barn doors in our "someday dream house". Aren't they cool?

The plumbing is all exposed since there are no interior walls or insulation. There were little mirrors hanging up everywhere too, which I loved.

On to the upstairs bathroom. Here are my boys with their matching Rockies hats brushing their teeth. Makes my heart flutter. Unfortunately our Rockies didn't win while we were cheering them on from Vermont.

More exposed plumbing with the hot and cold on the wrong side.

And now on to the dining room. There is nothing that makes me happier than plenty of food with lots of toes under the table. Our friends, the Hackards, have two boys the same age as Ava and Tyson, so we all fit perfectly around the table and enjoyed lots of wonderful hot meals together. Although it was hard not to get distracted by the gorgeous view.

Look at all the cool mis-matched chairs around the table. Could this be more my style??

Ava and Wade used the dining table to attempt a 1000 piece puzzle of Vermont. They got the border done plus some before we had to pack it up. I was VERY impressed.

More views outside the dining room.

Also a good place to sit and drink pregnancy tea (thanks Lisa!) and enjoy the amazing view.

This lock was all that kept us safe from the outside world. There was no fear of any people wandering around, but one night while we had a fire going in the firepit by the shore, we heard very mysterious animal noises. And I swear I heard something going pitter patter on the front porch during the night. Hmmmmmmm, good this we locked up at night and had the dogs with us!!

Since there are no interior walls/drywall, each room was just filled with books in the wall frame. It was amazing. EVERY room had no lack of reading, that's for sure. You see the light shining through?? Ya, that's the outside. And that's why the house was 43 degrees every morning.

So cold, but SOOOOO worth it. I love Vermont.

More to come!

Outhouse Orchard

2009-10-06T16:39:00.004-04:00

Last Friday I just needed to get out at do "something Fall". A couple friends had mentioned Outhouse Orchards for a fun place to take kids and pick apples, so I loaded everyone up with a picnic lunch and off we went. It was only about 30 minutes upstate, and it was well worth it.

By the way, why would you name your Orchard "outhouse"?

We ate (or I should say I did because I had to finish Ava and Tyson's) homemade donuts that they make right in front of you, we picked little and big pumpkins from their pumpkin patch, we saw the farm animals, we went on a hayride, and we picked a whole bushel of apples straight from the tree for $20!

Who wouldn't want to do that every fall??!!!

Happy Fall everyone. I hope you can get out and enjoy the harvest.

P.S. We're off on vacation tomorrow to Vermont for a week. I CANNOT wait to see the fall colors. I'm hoping to have internet access while there, and if I do, come back here and check out Vermont's foliage!!!! If not, I'll see you next week.

VW's...

2009-10-04T14:57:00.002-04:00

...make me happy.

Not all VW's, mind you, and I am no VW fanatic by any means. If you ask me what year, engine type and size, you're asking the wrong person.

I've always loved cars that are unique, and yes, old. I think I got that from my Dad. I always preferred to be tinkering with him in the garage than in the kitchen. Funny how some things don't change. I'm still trying to get used to being in the kitchen.

Most people know that I drive a VW van. Not an old bus, although Wade and I almost bought an orange pop up 1978 one a number of years back...but we already had 4 cars. I drive a 2003 VW Eurovan. With 2 kids and a big dog, I needed more space. But a Honda Odyssey just wasn't going to cut it. I needed (ok, wanted) something more unique, so my 6 month quest for a Eurovan with low miles finally ended with "our van" that we found in Boulder the day after Christmas in 2007. And it's been love ever since.

I guess that's when I became a VW fan. But mostly I just love old vintage cars, and certain VW's happen to be in the category.

Our fabulous mechanic in Greenwich, CT has been in business since the 1920's and they are third generation VW people. Why would I take my van to the brand new VW dealer just NEXT DOOR (also next to the Ferrari, BMW, Mercedes, and Bentley dealerships) when I could take it to Freccia brothers and their lot full of previously-loved-old-VW's that now have weeds growing through the windows?

Exactly.

So when I picked up the van last week from her 50,000 mile massage, I took along my camera and had some fun. I'm just showing you one image, because someday when I get my little (but continuing to grow thanks to baby Gus) tushy in gear and get my new website up and running, I will also have a stock photography site where my full collection of vintage cars and trucks can be seen.

Happy driving!

The Wenzel Workshop

2009-10-02T20:28:00.002-04:00

My mind is still swimming from last weekend's Amy Wenzel Workshop in Michigan. I still haven't unpacked! It was quite a non-stop weekend, and I don't know when or if I will actually absorb all the information that's in my little notebook. I got to meet gal pal Melissa there again, and I know she went home as excited and overloaded with information as I did!

It's taken me all week to get through the images from the weekend, mostly because......well, I don't really know. Life I guess.

On Saturday afternoon, Amy had a photo session all set up for us with a group of her kid clients and we split into groups and jockey'd for position to get some shots. Could these kids be more gorgeous??!!

And here is fabulous Amy getting us all started. She was quite the gracious and fabulous hostess.

WARNING WARNING WARNING: Lots of pictures to follow! I need to practice the blog collage thingy we learned at the workshop. Maybe next week.

Thank you Amy for a fabulous weekend!

Back to Michigan

2009-09-25T07:47:00.003-04:00

Hello all!

I'm off to Michigan today for the Amy Wenzel workshop! If you remember I went in June, and the first night of the workshop, Amy found out her husband, who had hit his head while messing around with buddies in San Francisco, was rushed to the hospital with seizures, and was then diagnosed with brain cancer. Amy left the workshop and headed straight to CA to be with him.

They are now back in Michigan pursuing treatment, and our rescheduled workshop is this weekend. He is doing well.

I'm meeting my good friend Melissa from Denver, so I'm looking forward to a fun weekend away learning lots!

See you on the flip side.

PS. Wade brought home a large bouquet of orange/yellow roses for our anniversary and my house smells amazing! I wish you could smell it...

Fleeting summer afternoons...

2009-09-24T16:03:00.004-04:00

...make me happy.

What could be better than a Friday afternoon, Pediatrician Barbie, glorious afternoon sun, a rocky beach and bait?

Last week the kids and I, along with Pediatrician Barbie, headed out the beach after naps to see what we could find. Ava wore her hand-me-down orange fleece skirt that has a convenient front zip pocket which is perfect for collecting shells.

We watch guys fishing and checked out their tub full of little fish (no idea what kind) and we watched a father-son team turn over rocks and catch a whole lot of little crabs for bait.

Barbie got her feet all sandy as Ava buried her in the sand, and Tyson dug holes. That's what he does. Dig holes. "Mommy, will you dig a big big big hole for me?" All he wants is a hole so he can jump in it. Sigh....it's the little things....

This is my attempt at shooting flair. I am really very poor at it. Anyone got any tips???

Has anyone ever seen these before? It's a bunch of snails that have attached themselves to each other. Safety in numbers?? I found one that had like 7 shells, but I showed it to Tyson and he threw it and I lost it in the rocks.

Enjoy the last fleeting summer afternoons. Unless of course you are in Denver and you enjoyed the chance of snow yesterday with cold cold rain.

Happy Anniversary Wade

2009-09-23T15:35:00.002-04:00

Today is the day. Nine years ago we said our I Do's. Can you believe it? Who would have dreamed we would be where we are and expecting baby #3?

So we celebrated last Saturday night with dinner at Balthazar's in Soho, and then I surprised Wade with a trip to the top of the Empire State Building. It was a gorgeous clear night, and you could see for miles. It would have been a bit more romantic if we didn't have to share our time up there with a couple hundred other people, but it was still amazing.

Can you tell we were both in the mood for steak?? Fabulous.

I love you Wade for always keeping me grounded, even when I fight it. Thank you for your committment to me and the kids (and Presta). I love you for making me laugh even though you sometimes have to work a little harder at it. I do think you're funny....I really do. I love you for letting me plan our vacations as long as there is a golf course near by. I love you for cutting your own hair so I can spend a little more on mine. I love you for teaching Tyson how to play baseball because I am extremely poor at it. I love you for sticking with Ava on her bike even though she's scared of falling. I love you for letting me buy a van even though every ounce of your being didn't want to (I think we ended up with a good one). I love you for working so hard to provide so I can stay home.

Bottom line...I love you. Looking forward to the next nine...

Routine

2009-09-17T16:40:00.004-04:00

...makes me happy.

I haven't been in a routine since we moved here 10 months ago. Don't get me wrong, I have loved it, but it is nice to have something going on that is routine!

Ava started preschool on Tuesday and goes 3 mornings a week, with a long 4 day weekend break (I purposely did that just in case Wade could take a long weekend off).

We started out the morning at Starbucks for a special treat for both of them....their OWN kid's hot chocolate. They usually have to share, but today was a special day.

Of course the "spark-eh-ly" shoes had to make on appearance on the special first day!

Much to my surprise, she ran right into school and almost didn't look back. Is this really MY Ava?

The tears were starting to come when we got inside, but luckily one of her teachers, Miss Bobbie, came to our rescue and took Ava to the big blue rug for singing time. LOVE Miss Bobbie.

Manhattan.....YUCK!

2009-09-13T20:03:00.002-04:00

The drink, not the city.

So you may remember this post here. What an awesome girl's weekend. We each drank a Manhattan, and they were not so good. Ugh. But we drank them anyway because they were $20 each!!

So Janna sent this to me in the mail last week and it cracked me up! I don't know if this was in this month's Martha Stewart or not, but man, why do people like these drinks?

Why such an amazing city has such a horrible tasting drink named after it is beyond me.

Elmo and Superman Camping

2009-09-11T15:21:00.004-04:00

We actually had a four day labor day weekend, but didn't plan ahead, so we decided to camp in the backyard. Why not? The kids loved it, and we all SURPRISINGLY slept well.

Bed at 8pm, up with the sun at 6am! The best thing about it? Wake up and go inside to use indoor plumbing...

I think Elmo and our little Superman especially had a good time.

Hot Dog Heaven

2009-09-09T19:21:00.003-04:00

One of our last days with Mom and Audrey was spent in Central Park. It was an absolutely gorgeous day...not too hot!

We had a picnic just outside the arena where Whitney Houston was giving a free comeback concert, so we ate while listening to her belt out "I'm Every Woman". Go Whitney.

We opted for the best and cheapest New York lunch. Hot dogs from a vendor. $2 (or $4 for me because I had two) of hot dog heaven.

Oh, and I saw someone famous as I was heading back for my second hot dog!!!! Patrick Stewart! Don't worry, I didn't know his name either. But he's the very nice looking bald older gentlemen who played Captain Picard in Star Trek the Next Generation, and he's in most the X-Men movies.

I love seeing famous people...I watch to much E! channel.

Date Night

2009-09-09T08:09:00.002-04:00

One of my favorite things about having people visit, other than seeing our guests of course, is having a date night.

Typically if you come stay with us, you get the privilege of watching my beautiful and well behaved and perfect (OK, exaggerating JUUUUUSSST a little bit) children so Wade and I can have a night out.

Mom and Audrey were gracious enough to stay behind one evening. I got to ride the train in BY MYSELF, ALL ALONE, SOLO, and I even took a book with me. WOW!!

I met Wade and work and then we headed to NYC's Little Italy on Mulberry street and ate at Il Palazzo (151 Mulberry Street). ALL their pasta is homemade. The food was fantastic, and we sat in a little courtyard in the back which had a glass ceiling and a view of the surrounding brick buildings. Very "Rear Window" - esque.

Just check out our food. Man, I could only eat about 1/3 of it, but it was phenomenal. And yes, you see two glasses of wine in the last picture. BAD pregnant lady, BAD!!!! Don't worry Mom, I only drank 1/2 of it. Baby Gus is just fine.

PS. If you want to eat on Mulberry Street, I would recommend two other restaurants that have semi-outdoor seating right on the street so you can watch everyone walking by. The store fronts open up completely, so you're dining inside, but a bit al fresco.

Caffe Napoli,191 Hester Street (Hester & Mulberry)
Da Gennaro Ristorante, 129 Mulberry Street

Then head just a block down to Ferrara's (est 1892) for some of the best Gelato and coffee.

Ciao!!

Cousins at the beach

2009-09-08T13:57:00.002-04:00

Now Audrey used to live in San Diego, and she wanted to go to our Rye Beach while visiting, and honestly, our little beach is NOTHING compared to San Diego. I mean, c'mon! BUT, it was still a good time, and I loved that Audrey was so willing to watch after the kids and was willing to let them play all over her. What are cousins for?

And I couldn't resist this one. I LOVE Tyson's bellybutton. It sticks out so cute, and I think he's the only one in the family with an "outy". Although his is really 1/2 and 1/2 and not really a full "outy". But look at the sand sticking to his stomach. Oh, I just want to reach down and give his tummy a big zerbert!!!!!

Jelly Bellys

2009-09-08T11:37:00.003-04:00

...make me happy.

And I don't think I realized it until we went to Dylan's Candy Bar after our morning at Alice's Tea Cup.

Dylan Lauren (daughter of Ralph Lauren) opened up the Candy Bar in 2001 to bring her love affair with candy and art to life. It's a pretty cool story, and you can read it on their website.

Dylan's was ABSOLUTELY POSITIVELY UNDOUBTEDLY Audrey's #1 choice on her NYC to do list. She has been talking about it for weeks and been saving her spending money for a candy spree at Dylan's. I don't think it disappointed.

So if you like candy, want to walk on candy covered floors, and pay a visit to your dentist, go to Dylan's!!

P.S. I really should have used a flash or changed my white balance or something because the lighting was really not great! So sorry for the yellowish tinted images.

Alice's Tea Cup

2009-09-06T14:27:00.002-04:00

Alice's Tea Cup...Chapter II!

Alice's Tea Cup has three chapters, the original on the Upper West side, and two on the East side. Mom and I took Ava to Chapter I back in April, and she slept the entire time!

Happy to say that Ava was awake this time, and excited to have tea with big cousin Audrey.

When you walk in, and if you are a young girl, you are greeted with fairy wings and a sprinkling of fairy dust. I amost asked for some, but refrained.

Check out the decor! LOVE the turquoise, and the Alice details are EVERYWHERE.

This was the coolest thing in the bathroom. When you look in the mirror, the handwriting on the wall reads the correct way, "Employees Must Wash Their Hands...or", then you turn around and see the backwards letters, but also see "Off With Your Heads!!"

OK, I'm craving scones now.

The Big Piano

2009-09-06T08:44:00.003-04:00

This is one of my favorite series from Audrey's visit. We stopped by FAO Schwartz last Saturday to kill some time, and they had a ball dancing on the Big Piano!

Stamford Nature Center

2009-09-05T07:41:00.003-04:00

Last Friday we tried somewhere new. (Mom and Audrey were visiting Lady Liberty) The Stamford (Connecticut) Nature Center. I had heard great things about it, and Mr. Andy (I tend to call our friends Miss or Mr as that is what our kids call them) had invited us to go with his two boys.

Unfortunately it was raining, but we still had a great time. Just brought along the umbrellas and rain jackets and we were good to go.

The Center has a full working farm, a mansion, nature trails, organic garden, and the largest nature themed playground you have ever seen.

We started with the farm (and the little boy without rain gear is just an innocent bystander of my constant shutter finger...no idea who he is).

Can you see what's in here? The LARGEST pig I have EVER seen. Whoa momma!

A little guy can dream, right?? Thinking of Uncle Chuck in South Dakota...

We finished our rainy morning on one of the nature trails that is handicap accessible. Perfect for young kids and toddlers!! There is NO wandering away from the trail!

Our Day at Playland

2009-09-04T14:10:00.010-04:00

I think I finally get it.

I remember being young and watching my Mom watching me having fun. And I would think, "Why don't you want to join in?" "Do you not like (fill in the blank).... riding roller coasters, playing in the water, making forts, riding horses, roller skating, jumping curbs on your banana seat bike, riding skateboards?"

She would just watch, but seem perfectly content doing so, and I didn't get it.

Well I think I finally get it. I think it happens when you become a parent. You find sheer contentment watching your kids have fun and would rather watch them than do the activity yourself for fear you might miss observing their excitement, reaction, laugh, or smile.

So last week while Mom and Audrey were here, we went to Playland. I live in Rye, the HOME of Playland, and this was my FIRST time!! It's kind of like the cobbler's children who have worn out shoes I guess.

I had more fun watching Ava and Tyson (and MY MOM) riding rides while laughing, spinning, twirling, tipping, rocking, and sliding. I mean, I'm pregnant, so I wasn't even allowed on the rides, but even if I could, I had more fun just watching (and taking pictures).

To start, here are a few photos to give you the feel of Playland, which had "been providing family fun since 1928"...or 1920-something.

Could my Mom BE having more fun?

Now the submarine...this was one of Tyson's favorites, and I think it was one of my Mom's favorite rides too. Check her out!

Can I just say how proud I am of Ava? She is my shy one. The one who is afraid to try to new things. The one is has to sit and observe before participating, and the participation usually involves someone holding her hand.

I think she blossomed at Playland. She went on a lot of rides BY HERSELF. BY HERSELF! That is a huge deal for her. This ride in Kiddyland is called Whip It, and I think it's been there since 1930. It was so cool. The track is oval shaped, and the little cars roll along until you get to each end, and you get whipped around the corner. Simple concept...BIG fun.

OK, now this next picture has a story. There is a kiddy roller coaster which we convinced Ava to go on by herself, because Audrey was too big, and Tyson was too small. She went on it with a little hesitation, but was excited. She sat in the last car next to a boy, and we watched the car climb up the "incline" before she disappeared from view. When the coaster came to the end, she was trying really hard not to cry, but when she saw me, she lost it.

The ride was "too jerky" and "the boy sitting next to me wouldn't hold my hand".

The spinning balloon ride. By the way, all the Kiddyland rides require you to give the operator a thumbs up before they start the ride.

More rides that my little girl rode all by herself...

This may be my favorite picture. As it was getting to be dusk, and everyone but the prego one, yours truly, went on the ferris wheel so they could see the view of Rye, Playland, and the Long Island Sound before it got dark. On one of their rotations, Mom stuck her hand out and waved to me. Love it.

More spinning. My Mom is such a trooper, isn't she?

This was one of Ava's last rides of the night. Why the sour face? Well I think she was getting tired, and when she got off, all she said was, "Mom, it wasn't fast enough." That's my girl. I'm so proud of you.

Thanks Mom for reliving your childhood and riding all the rides. I can't decide if I had more fun watching you or my own kids. It's too close to call I think.

One of those days....

2009-09-03T14:03:00.003-04:00

I'm not gone, I promise! I've just been sleeping. And enjoying a visit from my Mom and niece. And sleeping. And having a couple dates with my husband. And did I mention sleeping?

Growing a baby is hard work.

I do have lots of photos to post from this last week, but honestly going through them makes me tired. And makes me want to.....hmmmmm....oh ya. Sleep.

So today was one of THOSE pregnancy days. I think the nausea is gone (praise the Lord), but I have realized that I need my three squares a day, plus snacks. Now I just need to made wiser choices in those meals and snacks.

The day started with an interesting breakfast. I am OUT of food. No waffles, no milk, and no fruit. So I opted to make pancakes with some Bisquick. Oh right, you need milk for that. So how do I make milk? Well I chose plain yogurt and some water mixed together. Honestly, it worked pretty good. It was the same consistency of milk, and the pancakes were pretty decent.

Then we were off to Costco. About 1/2 way there, I realized I hadn't had my 10am snack, and started feeling the effects. I FELT AWFUL. And all I could think about was a slice of Costco supreme pizza. As my mouth watered, I only felt worse. As soon as we got there, we ran into the store, headed straight for the food court, and I ordered my pizza and the kids a hot dog. I'm pretty sure I had consumed half the slice before I finished putting ketchup on the hot dog. I NEEDED it THAT bad.

I'm pretty sure that was the best slice of pizza I have ever had, and I ate it at a pace that would give the professional hot dog eaters at Coney Island a run for their money.

Have you guys ever experienced that?

So I am now officially 9 weeks pregnant, and I had my first ultrasound yesterday. Everything is good, and Baby Gus's heartbeat is good and strong....170 something. They moved my due date up a few days and my official due date is now April 3.

Have I ever told you I have a thing about numbers? 3 is my favorite number. I was born on the 3rd of December, Ava was born on the 3rd of July, and Tyson was born on the 5th of April, which is OK, because it's a multiple of 5. Tyson was actually due on April 1st, and they wanted to induce me on the 9th, and they WOULD NOT wait 1 day to induce me on the 10th (multiple of 5), and I was so mad. Luckily he came on the 5th.

So if Baby Gus comes on the 3rd or the 5th, I will be perfectly content. Easier for me to remember.

OK, I think I've rambled enough for now. But I do want to recommend this book that I've been devouring since Monday that my neighbor loaned to me. It has me cracking up out loud! She is a bit too sarcastic, and she could reign in her language just a hair, but the book is really funny for all you pregnant people out there....or if you have been pregnant at some point in your life. Check it out!

Until next time (and there will be pictures)...

Bronx Zoo

2009-08-26T21:36:00.003-04:00

We went to the Bronx Zoo today with Miss Meredith and Brady and Parker. We've been hanging out a lot this week!

Now going to the zoo with young kids can either be a success or a complete disaster if you stay too long. So we get there when it opens and eat and early lunch and then head home. The Bronx Zoo is really an amazing zoo considering that it is in the middle of the Bronx. I'm no expert on zoo's like Marla, but we have really enjoyed being members.

Our first, and best, attraction of the morning was the Asian Monorail. It was amazing! The kids had a blast riding on a train and seeing elephants, rhinos, and all sorts of amazing Asian animals up close.

And I have to say, if Tyson and Parker ever get married, this will be the cover photo of their wedding program. Could they be any cuter??

PS. Mom and Audrey arrived yesterday and they spent the day in the city at American Girl, FAO Schwartz, and Tiffanys (just looking). We're all off to Playland tomorrow. Pictures sure to follow!

Another pool day...

2009-08-24T21:07:00.002-04:00

Our good friend, "Miss Meredith" invited us back to the Rye Pool for a pool day. So welcomed, because it's hot!

The girls sunning themsleves and warming up....

Tyson's reaction when I told him we needed to leave in 5 minutes...

P.S. I just want to thank everyone for your comments, e-mails, and well wishes with this pregnancy! I'm happy to report that the majority of the morning sickness is gone! I still have moments of just feeling "off", but overall, things are looking up! Except for my stomach which is ALREADY beginning to expand...I guess my body is more anxious to grow than I am!

Beverly's Collectibles

2009-08-23T21:21:00.003-04:00

So yesterday was one of those days that tests all your relational skills you THINK you have in your marriage. Driving directions, low on gas, whining kids, and not enough food. Sound familiar? Hmmmm.

Wade was gracious enough, and willing, to drive an hour into Connecticut to go to the Elephant's Trunk Flea Market in New Milford. I had read about it on a blog this last week, and it sounded fabulous! A big field with something like 300 vendors? Uh....Heaven!!!!

So the directions on the website sounded clear, but we punched in the actual address on the website into the GPS. So after about an hours drive, we drove in circles looking for this address. It ended up being a cemetery. What?????

So then we decided to back track (yet again) and try the directions that were on the website. Go 4 miles....more like 14. We were just about to give up and go completely mad when we pulled over at Beverly's Antiques and Collectibles. Surely she would know.

I walked into Beverly's, a small "house" on the side of Route 7, at about 350 square feet. Beverly was behind and the counter and greeted me with a warm smile. There was a framed picture of her and Martha Stewart on the counter and the place was packed floor to ceiling. I asked her if she knew where the Elephant Flea Market was, and of course she did! It was just a couple more miles up the road, but why was I there on a Saturday?

The flea market is on Sundays.

Hmmm. Can't wait to tell Wade that.

So I stalled in her shop for a few minutes and continued our nice conversation. I finally braved confession and broke the news to Wade. He honestly could have flipped out. It had just been THAT kind of morning. But instead, being his usual calm self, he just shrugged and suggested we eat lunch. Plus he said, "how did we...and my we I mean you...miss that little fact?" I deserved it.

So we picnicked in Beverly's parking lot and ate our PB&J's, grapes, chips and fruity snacks, then tried everything we could to keep the kids awake for the hour drive home.

It is going to be a LONG time before I ask Wade to go to a flea market with me again. :) God bless him!

I'm married to a roadie...

2009-08-21T09:06:00.002-04:00

The kids could not have been any more excited to tell Wade about his big box that was waiting for him at home. I wrote Wade an e-mail saying something like, "if the kids and I aren't motivation enough for you to come home early, your bike has arrived and is waiting for you."

He got home early.

So after weeks of looking and shopping at bike stores, and after years of wanting a road bike, he pulled the trigger. He deserves it. I'm glad he got what he wanted, and am excited to see him use it. There are plenty of local bike groups that ride on the weekends, so hopefully he can ride in a group since I believe there is safety in numbers.

So before even going into the house, Wade and the kids got the box opened and all the parts out. Then they spent the evening on the front porch assembling it.

So it's official now...I'm married to a roadie!

Shells and Enamelware

2009-08-20T13:27:00.004-04:00

I love shells. I always have, and I guess I could thank my mother for that. For as long as I can remember, my Mom always brought home a handful of shells whenever we went to a beach.

I have since continued that tradition, and Ava has inherited it from me! Good thing our kids inherit the good things from us too.

So my fabulous neighbor Dana, and her husband, got back from a long weekend away at St. ..... I can't remember! One of those St. Islands in the Caribbean. She brought be back the greatest present...a glass jar with some shells.

They are now on my dining room table on one of my latest enamelware finds. A gorgeous tray that I found for $10 at an antique store in Cold Springs (on the Hudson).

The glass jars and other white dishes are from various other flea markets, and the white "dented" cup with the coral in it was made by my Uncle Mal.

Another love of mine: white dishes. Can't have enough!! White NEVER goes out of style.

After our trip to Cape Cod in May (you can read about that by clicking on Cape Cod from the subject selection on the left), I, of course, brought back a "small" collection of Cape Cod shells. Aren't they beautiful? I keep them on the back stoop in another of my favorite enamelware pots, so everytime I walk past them, I think of our wonderful Cape Cod vacation.

P.S. I brought back a lot of great flea market finds from our trip to Colorado, and I'll post some more finds soon.

It Ain't No Speedo....

2009-08-17T21:09:00.002-04:00

It ain't no Speedo...but I love my off-brands anyway. The swimming cap was about $2, and the goggles are Wades.

I started swimming today. 6am. Wow.

Why swimming? I quit Curves and we joined the YMCA. And swimming? It's some of the best exercise you can do while pregnant, right?

Did I just say pregnant?

May as well let the whole world know now. I'm about 7 weeks pregnant and couldn't feel worse. Either I blocked out the sickness from the last two pregnancies, or this baby is seriously taking me for a ride. I have napped pretty much every day for the last 10 days, and am feeling just icky.

Today I spent about 1/2 hour on the bathroom floor, and another hour propped up in front of the air conditioner with my eyes closed. Luckily the kids were happy to play trains and watch some PBS while I was "in my own world". Oh my. Where's my mommy??!!!!!! We're never to old to want them, are we?

So we found out the big news shortly after getting back to NY from from our CO visit. We are thrilled, but let's just say this baby was a bit of a surprise. I'm due in early April, just a few days after Tyson's 3rd birthday.

OK, I'm feeling a bit green right now, so I'm off to bed. Settle down baby Gus!!! (nicknamed by my oldest niece)

A Taste of Summer

2009-08-16T20:56:00.002-04:00

We had a BBQ this afternoon with neighbors and friends. Although it was a bit hot, there were plenty of tasty treats including watermelon thanks to Mr. Berl! I'm pretty sure my kids ate at least 4 pieces each.

Happy August!

Dr. Tyson

2009-08-15T14:11:00.004-04:00

We had Ava's four-year check up this week and she has been dreading if for weeks. "Mom, do I have to go to the doctor today?" "I don't like shots Mommy!!!" Then she runs to the corner and melts in tears...

The morning of the appointment came and Tyson told Ava he would be a good little brother and hold her hand. We decided to take our Fisher Price doctor kit as it really helps the kids keep their minds off the real thing.

Tyson was the life of the office, as usual, and wanted to practice his "doctor stuff" on everyone. While walking down the hall, people kept saying hello to "the doctor" and making comments on how young doctors are these days, and Tyson's response to everyone was "I'm not a doctor, I'm Tyson! Dr. Tyson!"

The appointment went well, and with a LOT of crying and three band-aids later, we were done.

Tyson got a hold of camera and took a bunch of shots of the exam room. I can see why a doctor's office would be intimidating to a little person...you can't see anything!!

We celebrated by going out for Mac-n-Cheese at the Mamaroneck Diner for lunch. Phew. Glad that appointment is over with!

Harvest

2009-08-11T22:08:00.004-04:00

Despite the enormous amount of rain we've had this spring and summer, I actually have something to harvest! Harvesting is easy, but the hard part is keeping the kids from picking all of the tomatoes...ripe or not.

And the most exciting discovery today is we have a squash growing! I did a happy dance.

Some Guys Have All The Luck

2009-08-10T21:53:00.002-04:00

In the immortal words of Rod Stewart: "Some Guys Have All The Luck"

You know it's time to cut your sons' hair when other kids call him a she. I'm not opposed to longer hair on guys, in fact I like it. So we gave him a trim, but left plenty of curl.

The long lashes, the milky skin, the curly hair, the naturally red lips....

These images are SOOC (straight out of the camera) by the way. He's gorgeous! Not being biased whatsoever....seriously.

I'm a winner!

2009-08-05T21:50:00.002-04:00

To say that I'm addicted to eBay might be a bit of a stretch, but I guess you could say my "enjoyment" of eBay of late could be considered a habit. I love getting that e-mail "YOU WON"!! And who doesn't like the hunt, the chase, the bidding, the victory?

I'll have to share some other of my recent eBay purchases, but for now, I'll share two.

Today was definitely an eBay day. Let me share...

I used to stare blanky at eBay uncertain of what to search for. I always read in magazines about cool things that people have found for their homes on eBay and I'm like, "how in the world did you think to search for that?" All I can say is practice makes perfect because you can buy ANYTHING on eBay.

I've been keeping my eye out for lockers just because I love them and they are so functional. I have a set I bought at the Paris Street Market in Denver a few years ago, and I use them in our little mud room for the kids to put their backpacks, shoes and other stuff.

So I was looking the other day, and I found some small cubby lockers (each locker is 12'x12') for an amazing price. And they were in NY! The state of NY sells excess "stuff" and I got these lockers for only $55. I have seen these at flea markets for well over $200. So Presta and I took a little road trip to the state offices in Albany and picked up my new treasure. They fit perfectly in the van, and after a little cleaning and a fresh coat of spray paint, they will make a great dresser for one of the kids.

After picking up the lockers, I came home to a package from another eBay purchase. I got a huge lot of vintage milk caps...110 to be exact. Aren't they cool? You can make them into fridge magnets, or display them in a cool container. The kids love flipping through stuff like this.

Happy bidding!

Boy at the Beach

2009-08-04T07:42:00.003-04:00

We biked over to Rye Beach lastnight since I feel like summer is coming to an end and we've only been to our beach once. Wade is in Chicago this week, so I decided we should go during what I like to call the "critical mass" part of the day. The hours between 4pm and 7pm. I'm sure you Moms out there know exactly what I'm referring to. It is those magic hours between naps, dinner and bedtime where your child's alter-self seems to make an appearance.

Tyson was more excited than I've ever seen him and he wouldn't stop running! From the water to the towels, from the water to the sand toys, from the water to....you get the idea!

We had a great time, and got home just in time for a quick bath and a dinner of scrabled eggs and waffles. Yummy.

Yellow flowers

2009-08-02T13:16:00.001-04:00

...make me happy.

How many times have I parked in front of these flowers and not really noticed? Then the other day I really noticed them. Those are really pretty! I have no idea what kind they are, and I honestly thought they might be weeds at first. Who doesn't love a happy yellow flower to greet you when you pull into your driveway?

Preview: Janeen and Avery

2009-08-01T12:09:00.001-04:00

I just finished editing all of Avery's pictures from her one year session, and I can't resist sharing this series. I just LOVE it. The Colorado sunset was golden that night!!

Sibling love...

2009-08-01T08:10:00.000-04:00

...makes me happy.

The kids have lately been really excited to just sit together and just "read" books to each other. Can I just say how much I LOVE THIS?? I'm pretty sure I have personally read each book we own at least 50 times, so they know them by heart. Now, they just sit with eachother and recite as much as their little minds remember.

I came upstairs the other night and found this scene...

P.S. This is Tyson's "big boy" bed from IKEA that we got for his second birthday back in April.

Porch Nap

2009-07-31T17:51:00.003-04:00

So it started raining again this afternoon. My favorite place to go while the kids are napping, especially if it's raining, is the front porch. I open the french doors and let the breeze and rain scent come on in. My big desk is out there, so it's the perfect place to get some work done.

Ava wandered downstairs after about 20 minutes and said, "Mom, I just can't sleep in my room. Can I make a tent?"

Who wouldn't want to nap on the front porch in a homemade tent?

Farmin' in the Rain

2009-07-31T13:51:00.006-04:00

...makes me happy.

One of my favorite things to do is visit places in the off season or when the weather isn't cooperating. Today was one of those days as we woke up to rain and lighting. Well it subsided after about an hour, so I decided it was a good day to visit Muscoot Farm. Luckily not too many other people had the same idea, so we practically had the farm to ourselves.

Who doesn't love running around a farm with your umbrellas and jumping in mud puddles?

I've had the boots that Tyson is wearing for about 20 years. When we lived in England, my Mom won a door prize at the PX store on Menwith Hill Station, and it was a HUGE Paddington Bear, which she gave to me. Mom was gracious enough to buy some accessories for him, including these red welly boots. Paddington needs his red wellies! And now Tyson gets to wear them.

Have you ever seen a turkey's face up close? I mean really up close? God really has a sense of humor!

OK, um, ouch???

Happy farming!

P.S. And if you're in Denver, you have to take your children to the Littleton Historical Museum. VERY similar experience.

A Hot Afternoon

2009-07-30T21:10:00.001-04:00

We spent a fabulous afternoon at the Rye pool with Meredith, Brady and Parker. It was the perfect afternoon for it too...it's hot!!! Here is Brady and Ava pushing my "cart full of fun" (I heard another Mom call it that) back to the car.

Tomorrow's the last day of July, so go to the pool!!!

Preview: The Rest of the Morgan Family

2009-07-29T16:11:00.004-04:00

Here is the rest of the Morgan family. Little Lexi had her own session that I previewed a few posts ago....

How do you take a family photograph that includes 4 children under the age of 4, and get all 4 children to look at you??? I'm pretty sure the answer is that it's impossible! But that is life with 4 kids, and it's all good. Let's capture real life! That's what I love, and that's why I love photographing families in their homes, because that IS real life.

Here are a couple of the whole family that I love.

Here is Andrew and Zach, who I've been photographing since they were about 6 months old (I think). It's been a long time, and honestly, they look the same now as they did when I first photographed them. The eyes just never change, you know? They just have more hair!

Lucky for me, Brian is a photographer as well, so the past couple sesions we've had, he has his studio all set up in the basement ready to go for us. Lucky me!

I just love these next images. Here are the boys hanging out in Mom and Dad's bed being told to sit and/or lay still...

...and here they are after we told them they could jump like crazy!

Brian and Lindsay, congratulations again on baby Lexi's arrival. You do have a beautiful family, and thanks for inviting me back into your home!

Preview: Joanne's Future Photo Wall

2009-07-28T07:58:00.001-04:00

So I have chosen the nine images that I did for my sister and her family!!! I am sooooo excited! I just love how this looks, and I can't wait to do this same thing for my living room wall. You can see the whole preview of their photo session here, and you can see where these photos will be in my sister's house here!!!

I think it will look so awesome in their new Phoenix pad!

By the way, EACH of these nine images will be 20x20 inches!! Waaahoo!!! I love LARGE photography. Nothing makes a bigger statement in a room that LARGE photographs. They will be framed in glass front frames with no frame per say....the images have the black "frame" around them, so no bulky frame needed.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!!

Preview: Sydney & Zoe

2009-07-27T15:00:00.004-04:00

I love that my business is word of mouth. I honestly think I get the best clients that way, and so my photography world feels like one big family, because we are all connected in someway through someone. I'm sure my business grew slower because of it, but that's how I like it.

Sydney & Zoe's family are a product of word of mouth, and I love it. I think this is the third time I've seen them, and the girls have grown so much since last year. Zoe is walking and has hair!!! Again, other people's kids seem to grow so much faster than my own.

So Sydney is a great big sister and was so much fun to hang out with. We had some great conversations and I love her because she is such an adventurous spirit. She loves to climb. I can relate because I loved climbing as a kid. Walls, rocks, trees etc. I loved being outside and scrambling over as much as I could.

But Sydney has something I always wished I had. Gorgeous dark brown hair and blue eyes. I mean, can you get a better combo??? It took me a while to appreciate my red hair, and I do love my blue eyes, but for so long I wanted the killer combo she has. Check her out...

And Sydney, I came home to NY and saw these shoes in the shop window that I was telling you about. They always make me think of you!

And here is Zoe...I'm excited to see if she follows in her sister's adventurous footsteps.

See, I told you she was adventurous. Sparkly shoes and a dress can't stop her! And she is such a Daddy's girl...

And what is a hot summer day without bubbles. I got so tired of blowing bubbles with my own kids and practically passing out that I bought one of those bubble machines that DJ's use. You just plug it in, and you get something like 1000 bubbles a minute...and no batteries!! But Sydney seemed to be doing just fine on her own...

OK, now this last picture just has to be my favorite. Can someone please take a picture of me and my kids like this? Next time I'm in Denver, I'm definitely going to hit up Wendy or Melissa for a photo session swap. I just love this image, and Kelly, I hope you like it too!

Thanks guys for a fun morning at your house. Love to you all!

Preview: Tatum & Harrison

2009-07-25T07:59:00.005-04:00

Tatum and Harrison look just as cute as ever, and it was great to see them (and their parents) again while in Denver. One of the things I love about my job is witnessing kids grow up over the years. Kandis and I were pregnant at the same time, me with Ava and she with Tatum and Harrison, but I'm embarassed to say that I gained more weight than she did, and she had two!!!

Kandis usually ops for studio photos, but I don't have my studio equipment anymore, so we had our session in their backyard and I brought some shower curtains and clipped them to the fence to serve as my backdrop. Natural light and studio-like backdrops?? Yes please. Then in Photoshop, I added some texture to the background for fun.

What I love about Harrison is that he is not afraid to look straight at me. I always get great shots of him staring me down. I love it! Bring it on.

I love this next series. I actually could have added about five more to it because I got some really funny expressions, but we ended up with some good ones I think.

Harrison: Tatum, what in the world is Kristen doing trying to make us smile. She's crazy.

Tatum: I don't know Harrison, but I'm over it.

Harrison: Tatum, I'm kinda hungry, are you? I wonder when Mom's going to give us our Tootsie Roll treats.

Tatum: I don't know Harrison, but I think the sooner we smile, the sooner we'll get our Tootsie Rolls.

Harrison: Ok sis. LET'S DO THIS THANG!

We headed inside for a quick outfit change and a few shots in their rooms. I love the mural on Tatum's wall of the classic Citroen 2CV. My family actually had one of these when we lived in England, and someday I would love to own one. Ours was convertible, pale yellow, and Mom just had to have one because "it was so ugly that it was cute." I have great memories of riding around in it with the top down, and I'm pretty sure we have a picture of Joanne and I standing up in the back seat while we were stuck in a traffic jam of sheep.

Can you say 4 going on 14? Don't worry Kandis, Ava is doing the exact same thing. They are growing up too fast!

And finally, back outside for a last round of shots including a round of rocket balloons. Thanks guys, for a great session!

Ripe for the pickin'!

2009-07-23T21:58:00.003-04:00

Wow, the blueberries were ripe for picking today! We were supposed to go earlier this week, but the rains have returned to New York, except for this morning.

The kids and I headed back to Jones Family Farm in Connecticut, the same place where we cut down our Christmas tree that I blogged about here.

We missed the strawberries in June, so I couldn't miss the blueberries! I think we'll hit corn and pumpkins this fall, and then our Christmas tree again in November. LOVE this place.

This was a pretty typical site today. Ava being very particular about picking only the best blueberries, and Tyson's little fingers in the basket eating them!

He even tried hiding from me in the next row so I wouldn't see him sneaking them from the bush straight to his mouth. Little sneak!

So 8lbs of blueberries later, we rode the berry ferry back to the top of the hill and checked out. $2.69/lb...can't beat it!

Preview: Kinch Family

2009-07-21T23:20:00.002-04:00

The Kinch family is probably the easiest family to photograph ... ever! Here's what I love. I honestly never have to give ANY direction. They just start interacting with each other. Talking, laughing, and just having fun. It makes my job that much easier. Plus, it's hard to take a bad picture of these kids.

We've done a number of sessions in the past, but we've never done a session at their home. As you can see, their home is ADORABLE in downtown Castle Rock. They're in the midst of a pretty major renovation and addition on the back, which you never know from looking at the front. Isn't this the greatest family photo? I love it!

We jetted over to the Feed & Seed store before the afternoon rains and winds came, and I'm glad we did!

Thanks Kinch family for another great session, and thanks for continuing to ask me back! It's amazing that the first time I took your pictures, J was only 6 months old!

Summer night at the beach

2009-07-20T22:52:00.002-04:00

....makes me happy.

Beautiful night, early dinner, a couple hours to kill...what to do? Throw the kids in the bike trailer and go to the beach. Fabulous.

I think the kids were pretty pleased with the idea.

Walked the boardwalk and watched all the summer evening action at Playland. I expected to see Tom Hanks and Zoltar!

Preview: Avery is 1!!

2009-07-20T13:43:00.006-04:00

Why do other people's kids always grow up faster than my own?? I mean, I know they grow at the same pace (technically), but is Avery really already 1?? Maybe it's because I'm with my kids everyday and it's the same daily routine over and over and I don't see the mass changes. I don't know, but I do know that Avery is one cute 1 year old and I was so happy to come back to her house to hang out with her.

Janeen and I have known each other for years and used to be co-workers before I attended the AA (Accountant's Anonymous) meetings. I had the privilege of photographing her and Ryan's wedding in Estes Park a number of years ago as well. LOVE this family! Even our dogs are good buds....

They did an amazing job a couple years ago landscaping their entire back yard, which looks amazing. I am so glad that the didn't tear down the old red metal garage though, because it makes a great backdrop for photos, and who can go wrong with red??

Who can resist a pink tutu??

I have to say that one (of many) things I like about photography is that there is no sound. I do love my new iPhone's video feature so I can record my kid's adorable voices...and whines. But the thing I love about photography, especially with children, is the image leaves you to imagine what the child is saying or thinking. Kids have the craziest expressions sometimes, and I love creating little conversations that MUST be going on their little heads....

"Lady, are we done yet?? This tutu is really starting to scratch where it shouldn't."

We ended our time together at Wash Park, in a corner where we could watch the sun go down over the mountains. Man, I miss those Colorado sunsets!

I couldn't resist this shot of Janeen. I'm hoping this one makes it to Ryan's desk at work.

This was one of the last shots of the evening, and it was worth it. Ryan just loves his Stetson hat (who wouldn't?), and it looks like his little girl will be following in her Daddy's tracks. Ryan, you better keep your eye on this one at the playground! Watch out little cowboys!

Thanks so much guys.

Preview: Baby Lexi

2009-07-18T07:09:00.000-04:00

It was good to see the Morgan family again, but this time we had to schedule two sessions because they keep having kids!!! I just can't capture them all in one sitting! So we started it simple with baby Lexi, the youngest of four kids. She was only a couple weeks old when I took these. Congratulations you two. You really have a gorgeous family, and I'm happy to keep coming back!

So guys, here is your preview of little Lexi, and I'll let you know when your whole portfolio is ready!

License Plate Magnets

2009-07-17T16:51:00.003-04:00

Well now that the package has arrived in Phoenix to Joanne, I can post my picture!

Last summer at the Paris Street Market in Denver, I bought the numbers 9.23.00 (my wedding date), that a creative person had made into magnets from old license plates. Since I love all things metal, I couldn't resist!

When we moved to NY, I kept the Colorado license plates from our cars in hopes of cutting them up someday. So when I was thinking of a present for Joanne, I realized I had the letters and numbers to make "J * T", Joanne and Toben, "1991", the year they got married, and "Colorado", the state where they were married. Since they moved to Phoenix for Toben to work in a marriage ministry, I thought it was fitting.

Janna's Etsy Shop

2009-07-15T08:35:00.003-04:00

Hi guys!

Remember my craft day I had in Denver with Janna and Erin that I posted about here?? Janna's Etsy shop is now open! Go check it out! She has a variety of items for Moms, children, and babies.

And P.S....yours truly did the photography. :)

And here is the picture again of the master crafter at work....

Home Again!

2009-07-12T06:38:00.001-04:00

Hello from Rye!

We are back home after driving through the night lastnight, arriving in our driveway at 6am. Thanks for all your prayers for safe travels. The van is in the garage sleeping after logging 4,000 miles the last 3 weeks, and we are off to bed ourselves.

It's good to be home.

Goggle Girls

2009-07-09T23:03:00.000-04:00

Just had to share our little goggle girls. Ava got one last playdate with Anne at the pool and they looked so adorable in their matching goggles!

We're on the road tomorrow back to NY. Sad to leave Colorado, but we're excited to get home again. We've had the most amazing visit here and are so grateful for family and all our friends here that we miss so much.

Please pray for me tomorrow...it's me, the kids, and our dog by ourselves until Omaha, where we pick up Wade at the airport. It's about an 8 hour drive, but we're planning on 10 hours. We'll pick Wade up about 8pm, then on to Des Moines for our first hotel stay!

I'll be back on the flip side!

Preview: The Heim Family

2009-07-06T23:19:00.007-04:00

Back in the saddle again...I'm sure there's a song with those lyrics, but the melody is escaping me right now. Anyway, to say I've been back in the saddle again these last couple weeks in Colorado would be an understatement. My backside is sore from all the squatting I've been doing taking photos, but hey, I'm not complaining because that's a good thing, right?

Anyway, like I've said, the whole reason we came back home to Colorado for a visit was to see Joanne (aka big sister) and her family before they moved to Phoenix July 1. Well, they're gone, but before they left, I offered a complimentary photo session as a moving/early Christmas present. Plus I'm going to do a cool nine-image-20x20 inch prints-frame-display-thing for them. Don't really know what to call it, but I'll post about it when it's all done.

Anyway, so Ava and I took them to downtown Littleton for a little family fun. They all dressed in black and white, but in a non-cheesy way. Mom (aka Gran) had just purchased Ava a new black and white dress from either goodwill or a garage sale, so she came along for a couple girl cousin photos.

So what can I say about these first few?? Audrey, now 10, is definitely very cool. But she still lets out her silly side and showed me a bunch of her dance moves. Even though she is nearing the teen years, she will always be the little kid who prayed to "baby God" and mis-pronounced her middle name in the cutest way.

Emma, now 8, is growing up something fierce. She still has her "thwimple" on her nose, and her crazy curly hair is gone, but she still has the same smile she had when she was two, and I hope she never changes it. Plus, this girl can strike a pose and hold it like I've never seen before. If you ever get into a staring contest with Emma, I guarantee you would lose. Don't say I didn't warn you!

Gorgeous, gorgeous!!

And now, here's the whole Heim family. Very good looking if you ask me.

Friends may come and go, but you'll always have your sister...the second one down may possibly be my favorite image from the whole session. Toben, you better start bolting the doors, because in a few years, the boys will come a knockin!

And I love my little Ava in this one. She adores her cousins, and looks up to them (literally) so much.

Nice legs Jo. Wowza!

And lastly, Joanne needed a new head shot.

So here you go sis. Hope you enjoyed your little preview, and I'll let you know when your gallery is ready to view on my site!

I hope you have lots of sunscreen, because Weather Bug is telling me Phoenix is 105 degrees right now.

Paris Street Market

2009-07-04T16:03:00.003-04:00

How could I come to Colorado and NOT go to the Paris Street Market?? Mom and I met Janna and Anne there this morning and I sooooo restrained myself, you have no idea. If only I still lived in Denver....

But of course I managed to find some treasures and things to add to my collections, but I'll have to post about those later.

Ava and Anne are becoming quite the treasure hunters too, and they had such a good time together. They put on quite the parade for everyone in their wagon!

Happy 4th everyone!!

Happy Birthday Ava!!!

2009-07-03T22:48:00.003-04:00

I know every mom says this, but I can't believe she's 4. OK, I said it.

So this morning started out with a "bang"...literally. We spent the night at Wade's parent's house and after she went to sleep, we filled her room with at least 50 balloons. Let's just say we all wanted to pass out after blowing up that many. There were a few "bangs" in the middle of the night, but only a couple casualties. Ava was so surprised when she woke up this morning!!! It was awesome. The kids had a blast playing in them.

We started the morning off with a birthday breakfast and yes, the breakfast included cake. Ava's amazing Aunt Amy baked the most amazing castle princess cake and carted it 4 hours from Grand Junction to Denver. Have you ever watched those cake shows on Bravo?? They should hire Amy because it was transported without any oopsies.

Now what more could a 4 year old want other than My Little Ponies, Pet Shops, and a $10 note from wonderful Aunt Judy??? Not much!! Well unless you include the "big barbie" from Uncle Kris which hasn't left her sight all day...

Wade and I promised her a date with just us, so we played putt putt. Ava was soooooo close to making a hole in one that she gave Wade the biggest high five. Honestly I was pretty impressed with her game. I guess she gets her putt putt skills from me because I pretty much rock.

Happy birthday my sweet girl.

Belleview Park

2009-06-30T17:18:00.002-04:00

Who doesn't love good, cheap entertainment for kids??!! I do! I do!!

Joanne and Toben were at their house packing up the trailer for tomorrow's big move to Phoenix and Mom was going to the salon to get a haircut, so I piled the kids and cousins in the van and headed to Belleview Park (near Belleview and Sante Fe, next to Pirate's Cove water park for those of you in Denver).

Honestly, we CANNOT get enough cousin love before they leave tomorrow. Some might think I'm crazy for taking four kids by myself, but honestly, if we ever had four kids, I would wait a couple more years and then have two more close together. Audrey is 10, Emma is 8, my Ava is 3 and my Tyson is 2. PERFECT ages.

I told the kids it was going to be a surprise where we were going, and I think they were happy with the outcome. I said, "Wear flip flops and bring your bathing suit!!" And off we went...

There are many reasons why I love Belleview Park, and we were able to experience most of them. First, the Lyons Club runs a pretty sweet train ride through the park, and it's only $1 per person. Better value than McDonald's $1 menu if you ask me, and you won't walk away with a stomach ache.

Second reason? The stream (or river if you're particularly small) that runs through the park. Grab your suit, some shovels, and start making sand castles, mini lakes and mud walls.

Third reason? The petting zoo. And it's only $1. Can I get a hallelujah?? Maybe it's because I'm coming from New York, and I now expect to pay an arm and a leg to do any activity with my children, but I cannot get enough of this $1 stuff!

The petting zoo is basically a big corral where the animals wander freely and you can wander with them. Pigs, turkeys, goats, baby cows, mini ponies and chickens. Although I would recommend staying away from the pigs puddle pool. He apparently like to poop in it.

And last reason?? Across the street is a fountain park where you can run around and get sprayed by fountains when you least expect it. The anticipation is just too much...

Have a fabulous day all you blog readers, and go out and get wet!!

Popsicle Party

2009-06-29T16:23:00.003-04:00

Nothing like a popsicle party with your cousins after a few hours swimming in Gran and Papa's neighborhood pool...

Miss Janna's House

2009-06-28T00:03:00.006-04:00

One day this last week, I spent the afternoon at Janna's house in between photo shoots. Erin also came over and we had a bit of a crafty afternoon. You may remember Janna and Erin when they came to visit my in NY back in March for Janna's 30th bday weekend....Mary Poppins, Manhattan's (yuck) at the Plaza, Zabar's on the Upper West, Purl SoHo....

Anyway, an afternoon at Janna's is always nice. We ate on her back deck and it was fabulous! Here is sweet Anne showing off her new lipstick.

"I'll just throw together some lunch stuff from my garden," she says. I was planning on munching on crackers and maybe a slice of ham or something. Throw it together?? Yeah right. More like something that belonged in a food magazine. See??

If any of you have read Janna's blog or been to her house, you know how creative and fun her living space is. I love Anne's room and all the little vignettes that are there. Anne has her kitchen, dining area, living area and dressing area. And since I love photographing children in their rooms and natural environments, I jumped at the chance to hang out with Anne in her room for a while.

And here is the master crafter at work. She surprised me with a new Shootsac cover. It's gorgeous, and I'm sorry I don't have a picture. It's hot pink fabric with orange polka dots. LOVE it!! By the way, if you don't have a Shootsac, go get one. They are great (not to mention cool looking) for you on your photo shoots.

And if you buy a Shootsac and need extra covers, Janna will sell you one. She is also planning on opening an Etsy shop with all her wonderful home made goodies, so keep posted via her blog.

Thanks Janna, for a fabulous girl's afternoon. I needed it!