a hint of whimsy

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T06:10:00.000-08:00

**Thank you, Pinterest for another adorable idea!

***Thank you, Landry...if it wasn't for your love of sunglasses...a.k.a. "gasses"...this photo would not be possible! :o)

Happy Birthday to ME!

2012-02-13T22:34:00.000-08:00

Yup, I said it, "Happy Birthday to ME!!!!" I will also add that I love my birthday...really I love birthdays in general...but honestly...I REALLY love my own birthday. This year I turned the big 3-1...not nearly as exciting as 30...but still monumental...I am now officially over 30. :o)

Since my birthday is sandwiched between Lincoln's birthday and Valentine's Day...every few years I am lucky enough to have my birthday fall on the Monday holiday...and this was one of those years.

I started my day at one of my favorite places...thanks Starbucks for the birthday gift!

Then I went to work in my classroom...yes, you read that right...I went to work in my classroom...on my day off...on my birthday. Don't you know...I'm a teacher. We only work 9 months out of the year...and only from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. :o) After that, Handsome and I went to one of my other favorite places...TARGET! I know, super exciting...aren't you jealous? Well, now that I have you green with envy...here's what I made myself for my birthday lunch:

Nothing beats a bowl of Kraft Mac-n-Cheese on a cold, rainy day. But wait... did you notice that there were two bowls? Yup...two bowls...one with a little, blue, plastic spoon. Yup. That would be for my super cute lunch date:

Cutest. Lunch date. EVER!!!!

After lunch Handsome and I had a little "photo shoot"...more on that tomorrow...but here's a picture that he insisted we take.

"Mommy. Gasses (glasses...not gas...he can't say his l's). CHEESE!"

Then my super sweet and amazing friend, Erin, surprised me with a big bouquet of balloons! She always knows how to make me feel loved! :o)

After that we all went our for an "All You Can Eat" sushi dinner...I think Chad took the sign a little too literally. We ate SIX rolls of sushi between the two of us...yup...SIX! Handsome enjoyed some toddler sushi...a.k.a. goldfish crackers, cheese, rice, and some chicken nuggets.

Here is a picture of me with my two guys...love them to pieces...and I don't know what I would do without them!!!! Thanks for making me feel special and loved, everyone!!!!!!

Did you notice that Landry has some new shades? Oh how I love that kid!!!!!! Yes, it was his idea to wear the "gasses" all on his own.

Oh, and Babe...only 12 more months till my birthday. :o)

Storyland and Playland

2012-02-12T20:48:00.000-08:00

Today we decided to enjoy the beautiful weather...and use up a soon to expire Groupon...so we headed out to Storyland and Playland. Landry enjoyed riding around in his stroller...but overall he didn't seem to be too impressed. I think we have a year or two before he will appreciate and enjoy all that Storyland has too offer. :o)

Here he is with the rabbit from Alice in Wonderland

and one of the playing cards

Showing some love for Miss Muffet

When we were done at Storyland we decided to head over to Playland and check out the excitement. I was sooooooo excited to ride the carousel with Landry...his first time. Well, let's just say that I was the ONLY one excited about this experience. :o)

Here he is, with the "death grip" already in place.

He was not a fan of the sound of the little roller coaster nearby.

Still not sure about where he was...did I mention that the carousel hasn't even started to move yet?

Its not looking so good!

I wasn't able to get any shots of Landry actually riding the carousel because...well...how shall I put it...he was TERRIFIED!!!! Really terrified is a bit of an understatement. Honestly. If you were anywhere near Playland...you would agree. Yup, we win the "Parent of the Year" award for submitting our child to the torture of riding the carousel. He screamed. Screamed bloody murder. The. entire. time. He shook...uncontrollably. Death grip. On both of us. Let's just say...we won't be going back any time...at least not to ride the carousel...or anything else...unless it is the train.

Still gripping Daddy after the carousel experience.

Still holding on tight as we wait in lin for the train. Anytime we went anywhere near one of the other rides he would turn to us with panic in his eyes and cry. Positive side? We can save a lot of money for a long time...since we will not be going to Disneyland or any other major theme park any time soon. :o)

Then...there was the "choo choo!" He LOVED the "choo choo!"

Our attempt at a self family portrait on the train.

Is that a smile?

Yup, he loved the train ride...and then SCREAMED when we got off. So, lesson learned today...trains are good...carousels? Well, they rank right up there with pumpkins, vacuum cleaners, and swimming pools! :o)

Table, toy storage...or FORT?

2012-02-12T10:08:00.000-08:00

Last month I shared with you how my friend and I made a table to help hide some of Landry's toys. Well, Landry has once again shown us that he has his own idea of how things should be used! Come to find out...the table also makes a perfect...FORT!!!

He loves to play on his toys, under the table, behind the skirt!

"Hi Mom!"

"Were you looking for me?"

Super Bowl!

2012-02-10T20:07:00.000-08:00

So, it is safe to say that I have not been the best blogger in 2012. I have a lot of ideas...and really had planned to do a lot more posts...but...well...it just hasn't happened! Ha!!!

What better way to get back on the "bloggin' saddle" than to do a Super Bowl post? Well, if I had actually taken pictures of more than just the food...it would have been a much better post. But, I didn't...so, you are left with just pictures of our food. :o)

Thank you, Pinterest for giving me some of the ideas...and recipes. Yes, there will be a lot more blogging about Pinterest! :o)

Oh, I did get a picture of the cutest football fan and his chocolate frosting mustache!!!!

Can you believe that this little one is almost 2? How in the world did that happen? Don't worry...I have been plannin' his party...since like June. :o) You do know that I'm crazy...right?

Well, that's all I have for tonight. I promise to get to bloggin'...be on the look out for some posts about Pinterest, my 2012 "to-do" list...and probably some posts featuring my super cute, super sweet, pretty much amazing in every way, little boy! :o)

My "Mystery Spot!"

2012-01-16T13:18:00.000-08:00

Do you have a spot in your house that is a "mystery spot?" You know...a place that you don't really know what to do with. An alcove.A "cubby". Anywhere? Well, I do did.

In our family room we have this area that is kind of like an alcove. It is next to the fireplace on the main wall of the room. In the model of our house the builder had this fabulous built in cabinet...don't they always...and for some reason, it wasn't even an upgrade option. When we moved in I had every intention on contacting the cabinet company to see how much it would be for them to put one in our home. Fast forward to 6 months later, after 3 attempts to have the cabinet company fix damaged cabinets that were put in our brand new home...yes...2 times I had a guy come out with doors that were MORE damaged than the ones that were already in my home...needless to say...I was NOT going to give them any more of my business.

I had looked all over for a piece of furniture to put in the spot...kind of like a buffet or table...but the area is so long that anything that was large enough would have cost us our first born child. Then enter...our first born child and the 6,786,453 toys that came along with him. Needless to say the room went from family room to "Toys R Us threw up every musical, light up, dancing, singing, larger than life toy that ever was made" room. Now don't get me wrong. I am not one of those people who wants my house to look like there is no sign of a child anywhere around. I would just like to be able to have people over without having to look at the musical table, Disney electrical parade car, rocking frog, etc. ***As a disclaimer...I am in no way complaining about these toys. Landry loves them and so do we...so hopefully I am not offending anyone. :o)***

So the task of finding something to take up this "mystery spot" became even more complex. Now I needed something that would fill up the space, go with the flow and decor of the room, store/hide 5 billion toys...while allowing them to be easily accessible to Handsome...and something that would stand up to the beating my child and future children might give it.

Enter this desk!

My blog stalking ended up giving me the perfect solution for my problem. Traci at Beneath My Heart...her link is on my side bar...made this desk for her office. I loved it!

So, one night when my hubby was at a 49er game with his friends, I called my friend Sheri...who is a super talented furniture maker/refinisher...we loaded Landry in the car and headed off to Lowes. I don't have any pictures of us building the table because I thought Sheri would make fun of me for taking them so that I could blog about it. :o) We had Lowes cut the wood for us and then we came home and within 2 hours the table was built and in my family room!!!! AH-MAZ-ING!!!!

Here it is...

We used

3 - 2x6 inch boards for the top,

2 - 1x2 inch boards for the side edges, and

2 - 2x4 inch boards for the legs.

Here is a picture of the top:

I already had a painter's drop cloth on hand. I didn't really want the ruffled look of Traci's skirt so I made mine with a simple inverted pleat instead. I should also mention that I did not stable the skirt to a separate board like she did...nope...I just hot glued it to the bottom of the table! Yup...that's how I roll people. :o)

Since Landry's toys are underneath it, I attached a ribbon behind the skirt. This way, when he is playing, I can pull the skirt up and he has access to all of his toys.

**Sorry for the blurry picture...not too sure what happened there! :o)**

So there you have it! My table/storage area that is the perfect solution for my "mystery spot." Oh...and did I tell you how much it cost? This is the best part. Are you ready?

$40

Yes, you are reading that correctly...$40! For the same cost as a mani/pedi...my friend and I built a piece of furniture that hides most of Handsome's 10 billion toys, fills in my "mystery spot"...and another bonus...it provides me with the perfect spot to decorate for the holidays!

Here are a few more shots of my table:

I had to add this last one so that I could show off the adorable gift my sister got me for Christmas! Love it!

For the tutorial on how Traci at Beneath My Heart made her desk, click here. Yes, it takes you to the Shanty 2 Chic blog...which is another great place to find tutorials on DIY projects.

***Did you notice that Landry's toys multiplied while I was typing this post? If you have a child...you know it is true!

Living in the Moment

2011-12-31T08:09:00.000-08:00

So, I have to start by confessing...I didn't really get ANY pictures of our Christmas Eve...or Christmas Day! I know, last year I had a billion and one pictures...this year...about 5...maybe! Here is the reason why, instead of being so focused on making sure that I got perfect pictures of everything, made sure that Landry was posed just right, documenting every mintue, thinking about the blog post every step of the way...I threw that all out the window and just enjoyed the moment. Yup, instead of worrying about what was going to happen or what I was going to do with the pictures, I decided to soak in the amazing love and happiness that I was surrounded by. I lived in the moment. And I LOVED it! So, I apologize for the lack of photos...but oh well! :o)

Christmas Eve was spent at Chad's aunt and uncle's house. Gary and Mary are always such gracious hosts. Mary is an amazing cook and always has tons of yummy food and Gary LOVES our little man. Everytime we go over Gary has some kind of toy for Landry...and Landry ends up falling in love with them each time. We enjoyed the evening with the Lofgrens, Tighs, and Krusers...it was so much fun!

Christmas morning we woke up and I was so excited for Landry to open up his first stocking. Have I menioned that my child is an EXCELLENT sleeper? I mean, he really is amazing...I know we won't be that lucky when baby #2 comes along...which isn't going to be any time soon...back to the point. Landry slept in until about 9:30! I was dying. I almost went in and woke him up. Let me also say that Chad...well really just me because Chad had nothing to do with the stocking...or Landry's gifts at all...that I win the award for giving my child the most boring stocking in the history of the world! Yup, boring. Why? Because let's be real...he is not going to remember this stocking at all...plus I didn't really think he would understand the whole idea of Santa bringing him gifts...but I was wrong! When he finally woke up, he walked into the living room and immediately went for his stocking. I didn't direct him, I have never even told him that it was his, nothing! He noticed that it was sitting in front of the fireplace instwad of hanging up, and he dug in. Inside he found a coupls of packs of fruit snacks, goldfish crackers, animal crackers, a new toothbrush, and two new sippy cups. He immediately fell in love with the toothbrush...and insisted on digging into the fruit snacks. He ate all four packs!!! I really think that h understood that Santa brought him his stocking goodies because everytime he eats his fruit snacks now, he goes and points to his picture with Santa. Oh, I can't wait for next year! :o)

Christmas Day we spent at my parent's house with my family and Chad's parents. We talked, ate, talked, ate some more, and eventually got to opening presents. I think that Landry has gotten way too used to having me around all day long because he was very clingy all day long...which also was a reason why there were very little pictures taken. :o)

Landry was really into the gift opening this year. It was so much fun to see him get excited about the bags, paper, and tissue...which were of course his favorite parts! Every time he opened something up he would say, "OOOOHHH!" Too funny! He even liked to watch me open my gifts...and then he would grab them and run away.

Here he has stolen my highly coveted caramel corn that my Aunt Judy makes. He knows already that you have to grab your bag and hide it...if not...someone else will eat it! :o)

Popcorn is very serious business as you can see!

Landry also loves the way things feels against his skin. Here he is with a pair of new pajamas from Nawnie and Papa...and of course he is saying, "Cheese!"

G.G. and Poppie got him an adorable hat that will be perfect for his first trip to the snow...which will hopefully be this year! :o)

No, I couldn't get him to turn around and face me...little stinker!

You all know his love of glasses...so Nawnie and Papa got him a new pair! You also know that he has his "own" way of wearing them. Here he is...glasses, smirk, and all!

This is the only shot I got of the three of us. As you can see...not the best shot...and someone is so not happy to be taking a picture. Oh well!

After a fun filled day and night, everyone kind of hung low the next day. Chad's parents were going back to Redding on Tuesday, so we had them over to our house on Monday night. Here are two cute pictures I got of Landry and Todd...a.k.a. Poppie (Chad's dad) playing with the kitchen sink faucet!

Oh how his smile melts my heart!

Again, I apologize for the lack of pictures...but I enjoyed my time with my family and lived in the moment!

Dear Santa,

2011-12-24T07:36:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

Well, since I don't really know how to write yet, I am asking Mom to write my letter for me this year...hope you understand. :o) I wanted to start by saying that I really did enjoy meeting you the other day...even if the picture shows something a bit different.

I can explain. I was excited to see you...I'm sure you heard me saying "Santa, Santa," when we walked into Pamela's studio. But then, Mom just kind of plopped me on your lap and I was afraid you were going to take me with you to the North Pole. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure the North Pole is an amazing place...but I REALLY love my mommy and daddy...and I'm not quite ready to leave them yet. So, I just wanted to say sorry for crying during our picture. Just ask Mommy...everytime I see you or even your hat I call out your name with a big smile. Mommy keeps telling me that you're going to come by our house tonight and leave me some presents in something called a stocking. I have no idea what she is talking about but I am excited about it...plus I think it makes her feel better if I respond to things with, "Ohhh." She always smiles and starts laughing when I do that...so I do it a lot. :o)

Mommy told me, that since I am almost 20 months old...which apparently is "unbelievable" to her...that I should tell you some of the things I like to do now. I mean, I am almost two you know!

My new favorite thing to do is talk and repeat whatever anyone says. I think that Mommy was worried for awhile because I waited a long time to start talking. You want to know how I know that...well, she talked to every speech therapist she knows...and she knows quite a few...and guess what they all told her? They said that I was going to be okay...but I don't think she really believed them. I have to admit...it was kind of fun not saying anything. She would try so hard to get me to say words...but I wouldn't give in. Nope, I would just give her some funny looks...she always knew what I was thinking with my looks...I think everyone knows...I get that "talent" from my mommy!

Now...I love to talk. Here are all of the words I know and use a lot: momma, daddy, nana, papa, g.g., ka-ka (Auntie Kaitlin,) kitty, dog, fishie, bird, moon, cow, eyes, ears, feet, butt, brain, mouth, chin, cheeks, gunk, truck, mess, ew, hat, glasses, waffle, pancake, water, bottle, up, please, thank you, car, go, ball, book, juice, bathroom, vacuum, bye-bye, hi, cheese, fruit, snacks, pretzels, banana, jacket, shoes, diaper, gorilla, brush, lights, bear, bed, ny-ny (night-night,) candy, popcorn, hot, ca-ca (coffee,) and I think that's it! Oh ya...I also know Santa and tree.

Now, for the things that I love to do. Well...there is a big clue in my picture...yup, I LOVE to do hair!!!!! Every morning I watch Mommy do her hair and I love to try and help. I have my own hair dryer that I carry around with me. Whenever I can, I ask Mommy to sit on the floor, I grab her brushes, my dryer, maybe even a few curling irons, and I go to work. I love to flip her hair around, dry it for her, "curl" it, and everything.

When I am not doing Mommy's hair, I love to throw balls and water bottles at Daddy. He keeps trying to show me how to catch them but I'm not really interested in that. I also love to ride around in my wagon. Here is a picture of my friend Amy and I taking turns in my wagon.

I love to chase the cats around the house, vacuum with my toy vacuum...don't even get me started on the real thing. I love to play outside, wear my sunlasses...or anyone's really, eat any kind of food, make a mess, bang on things, try to fix things like Daddy does, color, dance, read my books, snuggle, love, help clean up, throw things in the trash, dust, sort laundry, and pretty much anything. Mommy and Daddy say that I am a really good helper now.

Oh, and I also love to take pictures! I like to strike a pose and say, "cheese!" I told mom not to even worry about this next picture because my eyes were closed...but she insisted...and you know there's no use arguing with that. I like to grab the roll of component video cable, put it on my arm...kind of like Mommy does with her purse...then I run around waving and saying, "bye-bye." Mommy tried to get a picture of it...so I stopped and said, "CHEESE!"

Well, I think that's about it for now. Oh, here are two more pictures for you to see how much I have grown from last year. Mommy says that it is just crazy. I think she is the one that's crazy....crazy about me of course!

Lots of Love,

Landry Tigh Lofgren

Christmas 2010

Christmas 2011

Pantry Redo

2011-12-20T19:22:00.000-08:00

So, if you know me at all...you know that I LOVE to organize! When I say love, I mean like madly, deeply, passionately, LOVE to organize. It brings peace to me and there is nothing better than seeing color coordinating bins, labeled, resting nicely on a shelf.

Since my new addiction started...a.k.a. Pinterest...I have been wanting to organize everything in my house. What better time to start than during vacation? Just to let you know how crazy I am...a majority of my vacation "to-do" list is organizing different parts of the house. I am two days in...two projects down! :o)

Here is what my pantry looked like before:

Notice the oatmeal boxes on the floor...I had an "assistant" who wanted to help. :o)

Now, even though I love to organize, I hate to spend a lot of money on bins. I am often torn because the OCD in me so desperately wants everything to match...so many times I end up spending more than I want on matching bins. Well, move aside matching bins...I have a new trick up my sleeve! :o)

Here is what I used:

Yup...banker's boxes! I bought a pack of ten for about $13. Then I decided to paint them black so that they all matched and coordinated with my kitchen...with is red, black, and white. I just poured the craft paint...which I already had...onto a paper plate and used a paint roller to paint the four sides of the boxes. This was so quick and easy...seriously, I had six boxes painted AND dry within 30 minutes!!!!

Then I cut vinyl labels with my Silhouette craft cutter. Two boxes fit on each shelf...but it left a gap in the middle. So, I went and grabbed some empty baby wipe boxes that I was saving for a different project. They were a perfect fit! I decided to cover them with a damask print fabric that I had, added a black vinyl label, and voila!

I am sooooooooo excited with the way it turned out...and so is my "assistant!"

When I went to take the picture my "assistant" came running over, put his hands on his hips, and then said, "cheese!"

Here is another shot...without the cutie!

Oh...and did I mention that my only expense was the set of boxes? Yup, a whole woppin' $13 people! Everything else I already had on hand!!!!

From Our Family to Yours...

2011-12-19T18:01:00.000-08:00

HUGE thanks to the super talented Whitney Frank of http://www.whitneyfrankphotography.com/ for capturing our family...and the AMAZING Kristine Schroeder with KDS Designs for creating a beautiful card...just for us!

Thankful: Day 3: Friends

2011-11-24T10:00:00.001-08:00

Yup, it is official...I have failed the "thankful challenge!" So here I am...two days late...but at least I'm still here...right?!?

Friends.

I know what you're probably thinking...

here she goes again,

another pity party,

again.

Well guess what?

You're WRONG!

HA!!!

No pity party here!

Today is all about celebrating the amazing friendships in my life!

Past,

Present,

Future!

I am so thankful to have so many amazing people in my life.

Friends that...

stood with us on our wedding day,

we have celebrated holidays with,

4th of July

Halloween

Christmas Tree Lane

and that we have gone on vacations with.

Mexico

Avila Beach

We have celebrated eachother's weddings,

babies,

Me, 9 months pregnant...Frank, unknown! :o)

and of course birthdays!

Ashley's "Dirty 30"...yes, I am 6 months pregnant!

Frank's 40th birthday cruise!

Most of all, we have been there for one another

in the good times and the bad.

We have shared many laughs, many tears, many frustrations, and overcome so much together.

All in all, we have done life together. It may not have always been pretty.

We may not have always seen "eye to eye"...but that's what real friendship is all about...being there to love and support one another!

So, to all of the amazing friends that are in my life today...thank you!

Thankful: Day 2: My Job

2011-11-22T21:08:00.001-08:00

See, it is only the second day and I am already behind! Now you know why I couldn't handle an entire month of this. :o)

Mrs. Lofgren

If you ask one of the 25 children that I get to spend each day with, they will tell you that is my "fake" name. I say that because each year...and this is my 8th...how did that happen...anyway...each year one of my students politely asks, "Mrs. Lofgren, what is your 'real' name?"

I always respond, "What do you mean? Mrs. Lofgren is my real name!"

"No," says the student. "You know, like my name is Zach, what is your name?"

Every year I get a little laugh out of it.

Why? Oh so many reasons.

Mainly because I think it is so funny that they think I have some sort of super secret identity...like Clark Kent or something.

Yes, I am so thankful for my job.

The place where I can "transform" into Mrs. Lofgren.

The place where I am sure that I spend more waking hours than at my own home.

The place that I get to completely redecorate each year.

But my job is so much more than a place.

So much more than a job.

Each day I get to go somewhere where I am surrounded by people who have the same passion as me.

My job has provided me with so many friendships that I would have totally missed out on.

People who have become my nearest and dearest friends.

Not only do I get to have amazing people as coworkers...

I get to experience a year...or maybe more :o)...of life with families.

Families that become part of my family.

Families that trust me to inspire their children to learn more,

remind them to wash their hands before lunch,

teach them how to read everything in sight,

how to make art out of everyday objects,

to love them when they are hurt,

to hold them accountable when they make a mistake,

to cheer them on when they finally pass their math facts,

and most of all...

to care for them as if they are my own.

When I say life.

I mean life.

Birthday parties.

Dance recitals.

Church plays.

Hockey games.

Baseball games.

And even...a baby shower!

Sure there are days when I would rather stay snuggled up in my bed.

Yes, there have been times when a parent has made assertions about my teaching abilities having never stepped foot in my classroom before.

They have said things that have broken me inside in ways that they will never know.

They have shown the other side of "Character Counts!"

Yes, I know...I could have gotten a degree in some other field.

Made more money...because after all..."those who can't, teach!"

But then I wouldn't have the chance to work the McDonald's drive thru to help earn money for our school.

I wouldn't be able to dress up like my own fictitious super hero and race a scooter in front of nearly 800 people to celebrate how well our students did at the Jog-A-Thon.

I would never be a cover model for InStyle magazine.

And more importantly I would never get to share moments like this...

with the students who have touched my life in ways that they will never understand.

So, while I may take papers home on weekly basis, do some grading while I am watching The Real Houswives of Beverly Hills, spend a Saturday here or there hoping that my cheerleaders perform their hearts out, collect other people's garbage for a future art project, get giddy inside at the thought of fresh new crayons, spend most of my vacation time thinking of ways to make my classroom more like a home, and spend more money than I even want to know on sanitizing wipes so that all of my darlings stay healthy...I wouldn't trade it for any other job in the world.

I mean...I do only work 8-3, and get three months off in the summer you know! :o)

Thankful: Day 1: Family!

2011-11-21T18:23:00.001-08:00

So, a lot of people have been doing a daily "thankful" post...either on their blog or on Facebook...since the month of November started. I have loved reading everyone's posts and really wanted to join in the fun. Since I am just a little bit Type A...ha...I knew that it would drive me absolutely, totally, completely, unbearably insane if I missed a day. Of course, things always seem to be a bit hectic so I knew that I would miss a day...or I would be up until midnight doing my thankful post...and honestly...I have just needed some time to...breathe!

So, instead of doing the entire month...I decided to do the week leading up to Thanksgiving. I know, if I was going to do a week, I should have started last Thursday...oh well...baby steps people...baby steps! :o) Here we go...a week, well I guess four days...of thankfulness!

Family.

Some families are small.

Some families are huge.

Some are all boys.

Some all girls.

Some are nice mix of both.

Mine...well, mine is just the way I like it.

Mine!

My little family of three!

This little family of three is what keeps me going each day...

and is often what makes me want to go to bed each night!

Sure, we started out as a family of just two.

Then we decided to add this young man to the group!

Oh this little man.

This little man that is so full of life, fun, love, laughter, curiosity, adventure, hugs, destructon, cries, drool, giggles, energy, determination, and joy!

This little man that will drag out every curling iron so that he can "curl" my hair.

Who pinches his nose and says "P.U." when you take off his shoes.

This little man that will try with all of his might to climb anything he is near.

Who is sure to bring you a goldfish cracker and put it in your mouth for you.

He is a lover of all foods...well...all accept tomatoes.

He will jump in his bed and call to the cats with his sweet little "meow."

He loves to run down the hallway and show you where his diapers are, where he goes "ny-ny," and even where he has hid his shoes.

This little man has taken over a cabinet in the bathroom and turned it into his own safe deposit box...filled with the remote for the t.v., one shoe, my hair brush, ribbon from my craft room, his light up 4th of July toy, a diaper...and who knows what else.

This little man that will come running, full speed, and tackle you with a hug.

He will pull out a blankie, bring it to you, crawl up in your lap and cuddle with you forever.

Oh this little man.

Then of course there is this big man.

This big man that has been my partner in life for almost 10 years now.

The man that loves heavy metal, any kind of sport...except baseball and auto racing... any form of competition, and anything that can get his adrenaline flowing.

The man who will research almost any purchase he makes.

Who thinks things through. A lot.

The man that is pretty quiet in most social situations.

Who does not like to be the center of attention.

The man that can drive me completely crazy sometimes because we do not think a like.

He refuses to show his excitement for anything but...

man is he an amazing husband!

He is strong when I need him to be.

Funny when I need a laugh.

Stern when I need a bit of a reality check. :o)

Sweet and sentimental when I least expect it.

Oh...and he is the most amazing dad in the world.

His son means the world to him.

And that means the world to me!

So today, on my first day of thanks, I am thankful for my amazing family of three!

*Family photos by Whitney Frank at www.whitneyfrankphotography.com!

*Wedding photo by Pamela Leeds Photography.

One Little Monkey...

2011-11-12T10:00:00.001-08:00

jumping on the bed!

When I went into Landry's room yesterday to get him from his nap...this is the "new" talent he had to show me!

When Chad got home and saw the video I was told that this isn't a "new" talent...he does it all the time! :o)

***Sorry that it is sideways! I took the video with my phone and have tried a bajillion times to turn it around on YouTube...no such luck! :o(

Trick or Treat!

2011-11-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

So, I swore to myself that once the month of October was over...my life would calm down. Hmmm...we are only two days into November and it still feels crazy...and I already feel behind...yikes!

If you have been following me on Facebook you know that we had quite the costume battle at the Lofgren house last week. Mommy spent a lot of time, lost a lot of sleep, making an AMAZING (no, I'm not too shy to admit it) costume for my handsome man...and he hated it! Screamed. Ran. Stomped his feet. Cried HUGE crocodile tears whenever it was brought towards him...and this was all before he had any contact with the hat...or the beard!

I am proud to say that he gave in...and let his "inner gnome" shine! Since I am a big believer in the fact that if your child cannot say, "trick or teat," they have no business being drug door to door for candy... we went and visited some of those nearest to our heart! :o)

First stop...Auntie Kaitlin's house!

As you can see...Auntie Kaitlin's dog, Lady, wasn't so sure about the gnome costume. :o)

Then we went to Nawnie and Papa's!

Of course Nawnie had to give Landry a piece of candy to eat (and about 5 for his bucket) before we left.

Yummy, Reese's peanut butter cup!

Next we went to our good friends' house to see Kelley. She has a beautiful Husky named Niko. Landry wasn't so sure of Niko so we weren't able to get a picture with Aunt Kelley. :o(

Finally, we stopped by Frank and Sheri's! They went ALL OUT decorating for Halloween and can I say...the scarier, the better in Landry's opinion...he LOVED it all! Go figure, he "dislikes" pumpkins...but loves scary music, flashing lights, ghosts, graveyards, etc. Once again, wonder who he gets that from? :o)

Frank and Sheri had a TON of kids in their neighborhood. Landry was a HUGE hit! Everyone loved his costume and thought he was the cutest gnome they had ever seen...duh! :o) I also loved how he played right into character...stood as still as a statue while all of the kids were running around getting candy...classic!

All in all it was a great night! Landry ~~loved~~ tolerated his costume and we got to visit some of our favorite people!

Now it's time to start thinking about next year's costume! Just joking...kind of! :o)

From Our Gnome to Yours!

2011-10-31T15:11:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!!

As you can see...by his shades...he's a California gnome!

Hope you have fun "trick-or-treating!"

It is yet to be determined whether we will be a gnome or tree frog...wish us luck!

Pumpkin...disliker?

2011-10-30T17:12:00.000-07:00

I warned you in my last post...I wasn't joking...of course I had to take another stab at the pumpkin patch this year! If you remember, last time...he HATED the pumpkins...this time...well, I think we have improved a bit...now we just dislike them. ;o)

So many people had been talking about a great place in Reedley...Hillcrest Farms. So, today we headed out. Yes, I was able to talk Chad into spending part of his Sunday at the pumpkin patch. :o) I have to say...it is an adorable place...and like the Avila Barn...we will be back next year...and many more after that!

Hillcrest has all of these adorable little spots just waiting for crazy moms like me to stick our children in! :o) As you can see...we started off on a good note!

Yes, the binky is in our mouth...no, we are not smiling...but...we certainly aren't screaming...yet! :o)

One of the many cute features of this pumpkin patch is an adorable, old, vintage truck that they have loaded up with pumpkins and hay. Perfect for adorable pictures of your little ones...or even the whole family. We chose to visit on Sunday...the day before Halloween..yup...lots of people...all wanting pictures of their child or family on the adorable, old, vintage truck. :o) So, I wasn't able to get a picture of the whole truck...partly because I didn't want strangers in my picture...and partly because I didn't have the patience to wait for it to be clear...we would still be there! :o)

And now...cue the tears. Yup...we had reached out limit...no more pumpkin pictures!

"I said...no more pictures!"

"Fine...I'll touch it...but I'm not going to be happy about it...no matter what you do!'

Did I mention that this adorable little place has a train? Yup, a really cute little steam train! Did I mention it only cost $3 to ride it? Of course we rode the darling train!

Handsome and me

Handsome and Daddy

Listening to the conductor blow the whistle...ALL ABOARD!

Landry thought the train was pretty cool at first...then he seemed kind of bored by it. Wonder who he gets that from? :o)

Hillcrest Farms is really too cute for words! They have a fun little path that you can walk through their forest. They have the adorable train, perfect picture spots, hay rides, corn paths, pumpkins, and even food. Um...yup...they have corn dogss! Not just any corn dogs..."fair" corn dogs! Um...yup...you better believe we bought one! :o)

"You think my tractor's sexy?"

(Sorry...I know...slightly inappropriate using the word "sexy" in a caption for a picture with my sweet child in it...but I couldn't resist! :o) This is just another one of the 5,678 adorable photo spots they have!)

All in all it was a great afternoon. Like I said...we will definitely be back next year...until then...we get to have this cool dude in the backseat! :o) It's how he rolls!!!!!

***I was able to use the word "adorable" 8 times in one post. You don' have to thank me! :o)

Pumpkin Hater

2011-10-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my mom, sister and I took Landry to the Avila Barn. A friend of mine had told me about this place last year...it is where she got the pumpkin that gave us this picture.

I have been so excited to take Landry there...and thought that it would be a great tradition for my mom, sister, and I. So, we booked the hotel room, packed up the car, and headed to the beach.

If you have never been...you have to go! The Avila Barn is awesome!!! They have all kinds of farm animals that the kids can feed and pet. There is a hay ride, country store, roasted corn, lots of crops that you can pick yourself...and more importantly...every kind of pumpkin you can imagine...and a TON of them!

I immediately tried to get Landry to pose for a picture on one of the many mounds of pumpkins. Low and behold...Landry HATES pumpkins! Yup...HATES them...with a passion! He screamed every time I tried to take him over to them. I tried to get him in a comfy spot. SCREAMED. I tried to pose with him. SCREAMED. I let him walk around, explore, went back to try again. SCREAMED.

So, they had this darling bench with a scarecrow...I plopped him down...then added a small pumpkin...and here is what I got.

"Haven't I made it clear...I don't like pumpkins."

"Um...hello...did you not get the memo...no pumpkins!'

"I'm not joking...I. DON'T. LIKE. PUMPKINS!"

Of course you know that I am not going to give up that easy. I made him a special shirt afterall...for the perfect photo op. So, after some more walking around...I tried again...and here are the results.

I'm not sure that I have ever met a child that dislikes pumpkins...and especially not with the passion that my child has. I finally had to throw in the towel...he was not going to budge on his opinion of large, round, orange squash! Here are some pictures we got of each of us...you can see that he still isn't happy about the situation! :o)

Landry and Nawnie

Landry and Auntie Kaitlin

Landry and me

And in true Landry fashion...he allowed one smile to sneak out while he thought no one was looking! :o)

So, until next year...we will try and avoid all pumpkin patches. I say try because don't think that I'm not going to try again...I wonder where he gets his stubborness from? :o) Avila Barn...look out...we will be back next year...and many more after that!

Mommy Moment Monday - Organizing

2011-10-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

So, it has been awhile since my last Mommy Moment...life has been a bit busy...and I haven't been able to get a picture of many of the "moments" that have come our way lately. Most of the recent "moments" involving kicking, screaming, stomping of feet, and even a bite or two. Fun...I know...you're jealous! :o)

I thought that I would share with you Landry's idea of organizing things. We have gotten very used to finding things in very surprising locations around our household lately. Every cabinet, drawer, bin, really anything...is always an adventure to open...you never know what you might find.

So, here is a bit of organizing tips from the world of Landry...enjoy! :o)

Are looking for a place to store those left over plastic Easter eggs...well...they are plastic...so why not put them in the tupperware drawer?

Can't find the remote...well...look in the bathroom cabinet...isn't that the safest place for it?

Think someone might be stealing your snacks...lock 'em up...or just leave the padlock in the pantry!

And the most recent discovery...just tonight...keep the Swiffer Duster in the veggie drawer...in the fridge...duh!

There you have it...the world of organizing according to Landry. I mean, I can't believe that you haven't thought of any of these places before. :o)

I also have to add that I have been "collecting" these photos for a week or so...and just last week I read on another blog that I ~~stalk~~ follow...that her son does the same exact thing. So...it is good to know that we are not the only household that has a padlock in the pantry! :o)

Go Dogs!

2011-09-18T08:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the first home game for the Bulldogs football team this year. We I LOVE Fresno State football games...and we I especially love a good tailgate! There is something about the energy, food, friends...preferably good weather like yesterday...that I fall in love with. This year we got season tickets...and I know that I am way more excited about them than Chad...I know, you're shocked...Chad isn't excited about something...it's true! :o)

Last season we took Landry to his first Bulldog game...you can read about it here. This year we I am hoping to be able to take him to all of the games. As always, Landry was such a tooper...and of course, the main attraction!

Chad and Landry...Landry has his "game face" on!

Let me help out with the game, guys!

Me and Handsome!

Of course the best part of tailgating is the food...someone thought he was in heaven!

Landry even got to meet a real bulldog...Bruce! Apparently Bruce is the grandson of the bulldog that was on the field for the games during the David Carr years. Always gotta love the fun facts you learn!

Giving Jake pounds...I think Landry thinks that Jake might have food in his hand! :o)

Us girls...me, Sheri, and Kelley. Normally I am the only girl at the tailgate/games so I was so excited when we pulled up and the girls were there, too!

Landry had the most fun when we threw him in the truck bed while we got everything cleaned up. He ran all over, stomping his feet...and of course, tried to throw everything out of the truck that we kept putting in!

Landry had the best ride to the game...daddy's shoulders!

Family picture in the game!

Landry and I spent most of the game going up and down the stairs and walking around...which was ok because it wasn't the greatest game ever. He made friends with everyone around us...and everyone fell in love with our little man. One gentleman LOVED that his name was Landry! "What a great name for a football fan...he's going to be on that field someday...and we will nickname him THE COACH!" he said. I thought it was too funny...a complete stranger already excited about my son's future!

Just for fun...here are some "then and now" pics to show how much Little Man has changed since last year:

tailgate last year:

and this year

Family pic last year

and this year

Here's to a great season with lots of fun, food, friends...and hopefully WINS!!!!

So Proud!

2011-09-13T19:20:00.000-07:00

Landry has been cracking us up lately! We pretty much spend our days laughing at the things he does...but one thing in particular is especially funny...and so sweet at the same time.

He learned how to clap about two months ago and it is his new favorite thing. The best part is that he claps for himself when he is proud of himself...so sweet. This past weekend I was able to catch a few bits on video.

Getting off the couch

Closing the dishwasher...yes, he had just taken a digger right before...hence the big bump on his head!

Closing the refrigerator door

This week he has moved on to clapping for anything WE do. If we close a door, put leftovers away, hang up our clothes, fold the laundry...we get a very enthusiastic round of applause. I'll be honest...I will take any round of applause I can get...and it does make housework a lot more enjoyable!

Another Gift Idea

2011-09-11T17:17:00.000-07:00

As you know school is back in session...which means my life is crazy! Don't get me wrong...I LOVE being back at work...but every year I wish that we could ease into things a bit...just a bit. With that being said, there are several things that I have procrastinated on...one of which...a Back to School gift.

Each year I like to get the girls in my grade level a little something to celebrate the start of a new year. Of course I love something that is personal, crafty, cute, and let's be honest...pretty inexpensive. It may be a month late...but hopefully it is worth the wait! :o)

I started by getting 5 of these...I had to make one for me, too!

Then I used this...which I am in love with!

And I created these:

I used the adhesive vinyl, wrapped them up with some cello and polka dot ribbon...and they are ready...four weeks late and all!

I hope that the girls love them as much as me. A Monday morning gift always makes the day better...right?

Budding Artist

2011-09-05T18:56:00.000-07:00

Recently Landry has shown us that he definitely understands that pens are meant for writing and marking on things...just ask Chad about his "artistic expression" with black pen...all over one of our walls and doors! I decided that it was time to channel this creativity. :o)

Tomorrow is my Nana's birthday so...what better way to display one's talent then by making a birthday card? Plus...how can you not love a card made especially for you by Handsome?

"Mom...you're not supposed to take pictures of me while I'm working!"

"Never mind...SMILE!"

Gotta get the perfect color

As you can see...coloring is very serious business!

So proud of his work!

The finished project...with a few touches from mom!

He even "signed" his own name...he held the crayon while I guided him. :o)

I think it is safe to say that he may have a bit of his mom's love for creating things! He "asked" to get up in his chair about three more time this afternoon so that he could color while I graded papers. I must admit...I was super proud...and excited that he shares my enthusiasm for coloring! I see lots of crayons, paint, coloring books, construction paper, and so much moe in our future. :o)

Buddies

2011-08-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

First, I just have to say thank you for all of the sweet messages regarding my last post. I would also like to clarify...yes, I am mentally stable...and no, Alison did not pass away recently...it has been over 5 years. Thank you for all of your love!

Back to business...most little boys have a pet dog that is their buddy. Well, there are no dogs in our house...but we do have two cats...and a turtle.

Landry LOVES Speedy...our turtle.

Speedy was originally my class pet. I got him my second year of teaching and have had him ever since. He really is like the best pet ever...so easy to take care of, cheap, and fun to watch. Every summer I bring him home. Well, this summer...Landry fell in love with Speedy...so Speedy has a new home!

Everyday we sit and watch him swim around in his tank, we feed him, and talk to him.

Landry likes to "feed" him as well.

Yellow Friendship

2011-08-22T19:11:00.000-07:00

This is just a warning...this post is not like most of my others...this is a bit of my heart being laid out for the world...Mom, you may need a Kleenex...sorry! :o)

So, the title probably has most of you stumped...I'm betting that there is only one person out there that MIGHT know where I am headed...and I do mean MIGHT. Recently I have been trying to process and figure out a certain part of my life...the part of my life that has to do with friendships.

Friendships have always been a funny thing for me. I would like to think of myself as someone that makes friends easily. I think I am a very warm, upbeat kind of person...I love to get to know other people...love to help others...love to have fun...love to support...and most of all...love to love people. I am the kind of person that puts 200% of herself into her friendships. You might think that I am exaggerating...but ask my husband...it is true...I will rearrange the stars to make sure that I help a friend, make them feel loved, make them feel special, and let them know what an awesome person they are...often times while hurting myself in the process. The "funny" thing about me and friendships is that it seems like there always comes a time when someone just "disappears." Often times it has been the result of a move, a change in where we are at in this thing called life, or just loss of contact. I am always jealous of those girls who say, "Oh...we have been best friends since 3rd grade." I've never had that...not sure why...just never have.

Yellow Friendship is a friendship that first ended when she moved away to go to college down in San Diego...and unfortunately...ultimately ended with her passing. She always pops into my mind at the funniest times...it might be a song on the radio, a red mustang driving down the road, pep and cheer, anything related to Buchanan, and most recently, The Bachelorette. A guy we went to high school with was on the most recent season of The Bachelorette...and so, every Monday night, as I watched what was unfolding...I thought of her and what she was thinking of the whole situation. Ryan, you have to know that she was making fun of you the whole time. :o)

Blog world...meet Yellow Friendship...Alison Norcross.

Alison ad I became friends my sophomore year of high school. I made the Varsity Pep squad and she kind of took me under her wing. I am pretty sure that anyone who went to school with us would agree that you could never imagine a more opposite pairing...seems to be a "theme" in my life...you have met my husband right!?! She was loud, loved the center of attention, blunt, daring, and not afraid to speak her mind. Somehow we had a great friendship. She was the tall, blonde, outspoken one...and I was the quieter, sugar-coating, brunette.

The last time I saw her was at my high school graduation.She was a year older than me and she came all he way back to town to be there fo me. Once she moved away we lost touch. She was loving college life, tried to get me to come down and visit her...honestly...I was a little afraid of what I might find. It is safe to say, I wasn't one that had the "college experience"...and I certainly wasn't about it in high school.

I will never forget the day that I learned she had passed. I was in my classroom, before school, and a fellow teacher...and dear friend...came into my room and asked me if I knew Alison. I of course said, "yes," thinking that maybe she was in town and that I would have a chance to reconnect with her. Unfotunately she then told me that she had passed away, following a procedure to remove a brain tumor. In an instant I went numb. Granted I hadn't even seen Alison in six years...but it was so heartbreaking to know that she was gone. To know that I would never again have the chance to reconnect with her. To know that she had been sick and suffered...definitely not alone...but I still ached inside. My mom was so sweet and went with me to her service...where I cried like a baby...really...like a baby.

Looking back...Alison taught me so much about friendship. The most important thing she taught me was that a true friend likes you for who you are. As different as we were...and as much as I had to drive her crazy...she never once gave me grief about anything. If you knew Alison, you know that is pretty funny...she loved to give people grief for anything! :o) She always accepted me for the rule-following, sugar-coating, people-pleasing, nervous-nellie that I was...and still am.

One of the many memories I have of Alison is one night that I was supposed to spend the night at her house. Her parents were out of town. It was supposed to be a fun night with just a few girls. Pretty soon...more people showed up to her house...and I got the feeling that it was turning into a party. If you went to school with me you know...I NEVER went to a high school party...and I do NOT agree with teenage drinking. So, within about twenty minutes...I told Alison that I really didn't feel good...and I went home. I knew she knew. She knew that I wasn't sick. She knew that I wasn't okay with what was going on. But...she NEVER once said anything to me about it. NEVER gave me garbage for faking being sick...NEVER gave me garbage for not wanting to participate in the festivities. She knew, she respected my opinions, and she was still my friend...and I was still her friend.

Friends have come and gone since then...but none of them will ever be Alison. I laugh to myself when I wonder what she would say to me if I were able to share with her my most recent friendship struggle. I laugh because I know exactly what she would say. She would tell me to suck it up. Get over it. And stop letting someone bother me so much. Oh...and she would have two very choice words...but...I won't share them with you. :o)

So, that's what I am going to do...with the exception of the choice words of course!

Thank you everyone for your "words of wisdom" and thank you, Alison...for still bringing so much laughter to me. There will never be another person that gets me my only detention by a failed ploy to avoid running the mile, who sweet talks a male P.E. teacher into letting two girls leave school early everyother day so that we can race to the TCBY - eat a strawberry parfait - and make it back to pep practice, who comes to my house every Friday night before a competition to have my mom put three sponge curlers in her ponytail so that she is ready for competition the next day, whose nostrils flare whenever she laughs, and who convinces me that no one will ever know if we throw a pineapple off the balcony of a hotel room in Hawaii.

Yellow friendship...there will never be another one quite like you...but...thanks to you I am going to suck it up, pretend like things don't bother me...and try not to let people get to me so much. I have so many amazing people in my life...and I need to focus on them! :o)

So, again...I apologize for the change in mood...but I must say...I am feeling better! :o) Oh, and I just realized that I never explained why I call it Yellow Friendship...Alison was crazy about yellow in high school...in typical Alison fashion...she even had a custom made prom dress made one year...yellow sequence! :o)

Shades

2011-08-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

Since summer has come to an end...yes, my first "official" day back at work is tomorrow...yes, I say "official" because unlike popular belief...teachers don't really get 3 months of paid vacation. :o) Back to the subject...summer is ending and I thought it would be fitting to honor it with a montage of Landry's favorite accessory...sunglasses!

He really is quite obsessed with them. He has his own pair, two pairs of old glasses from Chad and I to play with...plus he will take any pair he can get his hands on. Hope you enjoy!

This is how he rolls...

you gotta have your shades at the beach...

while watching Jeopardy...

riding to Nawnie and Papa's house...

in restaurants...

at a friend's birthday party...

just hanging out...

and of course...at Lowe's!

Summer...you have been lots of fun...but this mommy is ready for another great school year!

Whimsy Wednesday - Wall Letters

2011-08-03T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you that I am SOOOOOOOO excited to share this week's whimsy with you. Serioulsy. So excited! Earlier this week I was contacted by a mom-to-be and she asked me create wall letters for her little girl. I had so much fun making these and hope that I get to make many more...let me know what you think! :o)

Letters are hand painted. These designs can be made in any color combo...or to match any theme!

Mommy Moment Monday - Shopping

2011-08-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

According to Dictionary.com:
shop-ping
verb: to visit shops and stores for purchasing or examining goods.

I am pretty sure that whoever wrote that definition never attempted to go shopping with a child. Before having a child shopping consisted of taking my time, going from store to store, trying things on, taking a look at all of the options, going to the mall or little shops. It was an enjoyable activity. People minded their own business...and I minded mine.

Now...let's cut to the post-child version of "shopping." I think the best way to describe it is that every venture is like you are on an episode of Supermarket Sweep...only every store/parking lot is filled with a bunch of Dr. Phil's...oh ya...and you have a cute, little, person in your cart acting like an ejector seat...everything you put in the cart...they throw out. Oh...and don't forget...you don't win a prize for being the fastest and spending the most.

I have traded in the leisurely stroll to the mall or favorite boutique for my "drive-thru" shopping at Target. Really, if it isn't a clothing item on the main aisle of Target...I don't know it exists. I literally go by and grab anything that looks relatively cute. There is no trying it on...I'm lucky if I even grab the right size...no looking at the color choices...just grab it and go. Which of course results in one thing...a lot of returns! :o)

After 15 months of this you would think I would be used to it...and yet, I am still completely shocked and amazed at some of the things that people feel they need to share, comment on, or criticize. I will share with you some of my favorites:

Kohls Parking Lot
I am loading Landry into the stroller, heading into Kohls on a sunny day.

Random Lady in the parking lot: "I can't believe you don't have sunscreen on that child...he is going to get completely sunburned. You should at least put a hat on him!"

Me: "Thanks." Thinking to myself...I am going from my car to the store...he will be in the sun for about 1 minute...but thanks for sharing...and how do you know I don't have sunscreen on him.

Grocery Store

Cashier: "What a cute baby! What is his name?"

Me: "Landry"

Cashier: "Lundry?"

Me: "No, Landry."

Cashier: " Hmm...that's a different name. I guess if you like it then that's all that matters."

JoAnn's

Elderly Lady: "He is such a cutie! My goodness...are you still nursing?"

Me: "Thank you...um...no."

Elderly Lady: "Huh...look at his legs...they're huge!"

Don't get me wrong...there have been many pleasant conversations with people...and many compliments about his behavior and such. It is just so amazing to me that people don't realize what they are saying...or do they?

Of course...I have to give you a picture...here is Handsome...shades and all!

Yes, he did get a sticker at Target for "being safe and buckling up!" :o)

Beauty School Drop-out?

2011-07-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

For the past month or so Landry has been in love with my bathroom cabinets. He loves to crawl on in and take out every last curlng iron...which I never knew that I had so many until he pulled them all out...my straightener, hair dryer, and anything else he can find. Often times he will drag his "treasure" down the hallway...so if you stop by and see a hair dryer in the middle of the hall...you know Landry was at work. Well, this morning he made his way down the hall, into my bathroom, and went to town. After a few minutes I heard a bit of a crash and didn't really think much of it. I thought he was using the curling irons as swords...which he loves to do...so it wasn't until about 10 minutes later that I discovered this:

We {heart} Santa Cruz!

2011-07-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

Well, the title about says it all! Of course when I say "we"...I mean "I" because the enthusiasm I got from the Mr. was this..." ya, it was a good time." Side note...sometimes I really wonder...how in the world the two of us make it work. I mean, I am on cloud 9, bursting with smiles, excitement, joy, carpe diem...we just had a fabulously relaxing three days...and his response is "ya, it was a good time." hmmmm.

Back to the fabulous time...in my mind, it was just that! We got all packed and loaded...which with a small child it is always much more of an adventure...long gone are the days of just throwing in two suitcases and an ice chest of snacks, and we're off. Nope, its more of a game of Tetris, Rubik's Cube, and Jenga all at once. :o) Anyway, once that adventure was complete...we were on the road to Santa Cruz!

Handsome was a champ and slept most of the way there. He even got his very first Happy Meal toy...minus the Happy Meal. Yup, he used his charm on a very friendly, older gentleman that worked at the McDonalds in Los Banos...before you know it...the kind gentleman brought Landry a toy truck...so sweet!

Here is the view from our room:

Yup...we were right across from the beach...which was AWESOME!!! As you can see we were also well within walking distance to the wharf and the Boardwalk. Can I just brag about the fact that this room was EXTREMELY well priced and we were very Eco-friendly...we never drove our car! Yup, once we parked it...it was parked until we left on Thursday...AMAZING!

On the first day we rode this darling trolly...

to Downtown Santa Cruz. Now, we did splurge a bit on the ticket price so that we didn't have to drive the car and pay for parking...are you ready for the price...$0.25 per person. Yes, we were able to fit that into the budget...$0.75 each way...which came to $1.50 roundtrip. I know, I couldn't believe that they charged us for our sweet child either...but they did. :o) Can you believe it? One quarter. One quarter bought us a ride, on this adorable trolly, to charming Downtown Santa Cruz...loved it!

Landry and I on the trolly.

After spending the afternoon in Downtown Santa Cruz, we came back to our room, rested up, and then headed to the Boardwalk and then to the wharf for some dinner.

Everywhere we went people commented on Handsome..."oh my goodness, look at that baby," "he is so adorable," "look at that cool lil' dude," "I have to get a picture of that!" Yup, in one store we actually had a lady who asked if she could take his picture. Honestly, who wouldn't fall in love with this:

The next day was beach day! Of course...it was the coldest day we were there! Oh well, we still made it work...it was a bit chilly for my taste but the people watching made up for it. :o) All I can say is that there are a lot of people out there with a lot more self confidence than me...more power to them?!?

Since our room was right across the street from the beach it was so nice to be able to just take our gear and go!

Me and Landry...as you can see..going to the beach is serious business!

Chad and Landry...watching the volleyball players.

My two boys!

Thank you, Amy for the beach gear!

Landry actually got in the sand this trip...sandy hands.

Time to do some exploring...

Or sea gull chasing!

But...Landry's favorite beach activity...eating animal crackers!

As you can see...he likes to leave a little bit behind for later!

And of course the only way to finish a day at the beach is...

with a nap. :o)

That night we went out to a restaurant on the wharf that has a Wednesday night special...full lobster dinner fo $11.95. Here is a picture of my first lobster dinner:

and of course...I have to post one more picture of Handsome...as you can see, he has a "thing" for sunglasses!

Like I said, it was so nice to just get away, relax, eat good food, enjoy some cooler weather, and have fun. So, Santa Cruz...if I have anything to say...we will be seeing you again next year! :o)

Whimsy Wednesday - KitchenTowels

2011-07-20T19:24:00.000-07:00

I know that most of my creations are designed for children and babies...but I do stuff for big kids, too! Here are two sets of kitchen hand towels that I have created.

As always...let me know if I can create a custom design for you! Oh, and if you get a chance...check out my Facebook page and "like" it! :o)

Mommy Moment Monday - Dental School

2011-07-19T18:21:00.000-07:00

Shhh....it's not really Tuesday...it's still Monday...somewhere...maybe?

You know that you are a mom when you find your toothbrush looking like this:

Lovely...isn't it!?! All full of frozen blueberry waffle, carpet fuzz, lint, and who knows what else!

You may remember this picture...

when Handsome was a mere 9 months old, he discovered his love for the toothbrush. Clearly, the love affair has deepened. When he can't reach his toothbrush...he goes searching for mine, pulls it out of the bin in my cabinet, and takes it...well...everywhere!

Playing in the family room...

Climbing into his chair...

And as you will see...it is even necessary to have your toothbrush in hand when you take your very first steps! Yup...FIRST STEPS!!!!!!

Sorry that the video is sideways...I took it on my phone and can't figure out how to get it to turn around! :o)

Teacher Tuesday

2011-07-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

So, I went back to "work" yesterday...summer school. Yup, I signed up to teach summer school...8 whole days...ha! :o) Since I was kind of caught up in the fact that I was "back in a routine" I completely forgot about my mommy moment. As luck would have it...I had a great moment in the classroom today and thought that I should share it with you all...hope you enjoy!

Just a little background...my students are children that are going into 3rd grade. They are enrolled in summer school so that they can hopefully better their skills in reading, writing, and math. Here goes nothing:

A student was up out of his seat for the 456,789 time this morning.

Me: "Sit down...S-I-T...sit"

Student: "How rude! I'm not dumb you know!"

Me: "I never said that you were dumb. I simply asked you to sit down...again."

Student: "Well, that's what you spelled to me...dumb."

Me: "No, actually I spelled sit...not dumb."

Hmmm...what are your thoughts? Irony? If the shoe fits?

Whimsy Wednesday - No Whimsy!

2011-07-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

So, I have waited until now to do this post because...I have no new whimsy to share with you today. Bummer...I know that you were all waiting on the edge of your seat for today's whimsy. :o)

Instead, I have an update for you...a certain little man turned 14 months today! It has been kind of funny because I originally was going to stop the monthly updates. Mainly because I don't want to bore you all with pictures of Handsome, also I don't want you to be calling me names as I continue to give monthly updates, plus...I just thought it was time to stop. To my surprise, there are a lot of you out there that actually read my little ol' blog! Many of you have asked where the monthly updates have gone. I have to say that a.) I am very flattered that you continue to read my blog and b.) I am even more flattered that you want to know more about Handsome. So, I am left with nothing to do but...continue the posts...kind of. Your wish is my command...plus, as my aunt suggested...I love the idea of an 18 year old Landry sitting on the couch next to Lion. Ha! :o)

I think I will give you an update every couple of months...because...the picture taking...well...its becoming a bit of a challenge. Here is how tonight's shots played out...

We started off pretty good...notice we can't just sit next to Lion...nope, we gotta cuddle him.

A bit of a cheesy-squinty smile...

And then we realized...Jeopardy was on...you think I'm joking about the Jeopardy thing...nope...here is the proof!

Mom tried to move Lion down...and then we decided to try and get some toys...

Then we spotted Mom's laptop and headed out the other direction...

This is where it went downhill...tried to play with Mom's laptop and got ourself in trouble...

Still mad...

Not happy about being told no...

Even once we are down and set free to roam...we are STILL mad and we are going to let Mom know about it!

So, as you can see...it is quie an adventure. Did I mention that this all happened within about 4 minutes...the entire time I am trying to get Landry and Lion together, camera set, and picture taken. So, to all of you that always see our "chill and low-key" baby...here is proof...he is not always that way!

Fourth of July Festivities

2011-07-05T09:16:00.000-07:00

You probably already know but...4th of July is one of my favorite holidays...right behind Christmas! I love the food, weather, fireworks, decor, festivities...and of course, the fact that it is the day I met my man. :o)

Every year we celebrate with our friends at the Netto House. We enjoy a day of fun, games, swimming, bbqing, and of course...FIREWORKS! Each year I am in charge of a dessert. Now, you know that I am not the best cook in the world. I try. Really hard. But I have given in to the fact that cooking just isn't my thing. Baking however...I love it! I think it is because I get to be artistic and creative...which is always a plus for me. Moving on...here was my dessert for this year:

I am also very proud to say that my dessert always has red, white, and blue...and I have never repeated one...yup, pat on the back for me! :o)

Here is Handsome...enjoying the pool!

That is Chad's foot...not mine. :o)

Getting ready to watch the fireworks...you can see that my child has inheritated the Lofgren sense of enthusiasm...not the Kruser side. :o)

I was a little nervous about how Landry would do with the fireworks this year. Last year he slept through the entire thing but I was certain that wasn't going to happen this year. Add to it that he HATES loud noises...I was thinking that one of us was going to be inside with a screaming baby. But...have you met my child...he is amazing...really...amazing. He watched every single firework! Sure there were a few times he got a bit nervous and cuddled in real close...but not a single tear or cry. AMAZING! Have I mentioned that Handsome is amazing?

Studying the action..

Fireworks are serious business...

"Mom...what are they doing?"

No, I was not texting...that is actually my camera...I was trying to get profile shots of Landry but he wasn't really having much of it...thank you Kelley, for the shots from your phone! :o)

As you can see...he wasn't totally loving it...but very interested by everything.

"Aren't we done yet?"

"I see you trying to take my picture...don't think you're getting away with something!"

Family shot

The fireworks

What appears to be a new annual tradition!

Kelley having fun...

she REALLY loves America!

and of course...our annual girls picture with our sparklers!

Thank you Nettos, for another great year...can't wait for next year...and yes, I already have an idea for next year's dessert! :o)

Mommy Moment Monday - The Cure

2011-07-04T10:37:00.000-07:00

Sorry I missed my post last week. We were on our way home from Redding! :o)

You know that you are a mom when no matter how you feel...sad, angry, mad, frustrated, annoyed, irritated, confused, hopeless, etc...all you need is a glimpse of your child's face and suddenly...the world is a better place!

Thank you, Whitney Frank for the beautiful pictures of my little one!

King of the Castle

2011-07-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

Duh...I mean, do I really need to go any further? Of course he is king of the castle...but now he has his own throne!

For his birthday I (we...really I ordered it and just told Chad what we got) ordered him the Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair. Now, I had been eyeing this chair since I was pregnant. I loved the simple lines, the fact that you could get it embriodered, really everything about it...except the price. In my opinion it is a bit pricey. So, I did what I always do whenever I become obsessed with an item that I think is a bit overpriced...I tried to figure out how I could make it myself. I searched online and found many tutorials on how to create it...but I wasn't certain that I could make it without it looking like a child's art project gone bad. I even searched Craig's list...thinking...if I could get the inside pieces, then I could order the new cover with his name. No such luck.

So, his birthday rolled around...and I caved. I did it...I made the purchase...to find that it was backordered...until JULY!!!!! Yup...his birthday was in May...yup...didn't get his gift until JULY...once again, I have lost my "Mother of the Year" Award! :o)

Moving on...I cannot tell you how happy I am that I decided to splurge on this purchase! I was worried that he wouldn't like it at that we would have the expense children's chair just sitting around...collecting lint. I couldn't be more wrong...HE LOVES IT!!!!

He is so funny...he crawls up in it, kicks back, puts his feet up and even does a little sigh of relaxation.

It is his go to spot to watch his favorite t.v. show...Jeopardy...yes...he LOVES Jeopardy...stops what he is doing, climbs in his chair, and dances to the music.

One of the sweetest things is when he climbs up with Lion and cuddles with him...melts.my.heart!

Of course he climbed out of the chair when I tried t get a picture...notice the bowl of "popcorn" next to his chair...always have to have the Cheerios nearby!

All in all...the chair was worth every penny...I would have spent double! :o)

Whimsy Wednesday - Hooded Towels

2011-06-30T08:32:00.000-07:00

***Sorry this didn't post until Thursday...I was having "Blogger" issues...it wouldn't let me post! :o(***

This week I am featuring something that my little man loves...and I love him in it...hooded towels! These are a staple on any baby registry...however these are so much more plush than the ones you can buy at any retail store. They are made of full size bath towels so they are sure to completely cover your little one. Here are some of the creations I have made...but as always...the sky is the limit in regards to color combinations, fabric choice, theme, etc.

Zebra print

Cheetah print

Wild, wild, west in light blue

Wild, wild, west in navy blue

Chai polka dot on navy

"Alice in Wonderland"

Bubbles on white

Navy polka dot on white

And one last photo...because I can't resist...plus it is one of my all time favorites...Handsome in one of his hooded towels...

Fall River

2011-06-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we traveled up to Redding to visit Chad's parents...this was Landry's first trip. We had a wonderful weekend and one of the highlights of the trip was the day we got to spend in Fall River. Chad's parents have friends that have a second home on the most beautiful piece of land near Fall River. Their home is beautiful, on the river, and has floor to ceiling windows that provide an unobstructed view of Mt. Shasta.

Here is the view from the back of their home:

That isMt. Shasta in the background!

The area is full of all kinds of wildlife. There are a multitude of bird species, deer, river otters, turtles, muskrats, and so much more. Here is a duck's nest that was found in the garden:

Grant is so proud of the nest...he actually took the picture of the eggs...such a cutie!

We had a great day exploring the river, relaxing, the boys (men) golfed, and us girls had a great time. Landry and G.G. even found time to take a nap!

And of course...I found time to take some pictures of some pretty cute little boys!

As you can see, Landry made some new buddies...thank you Grant and Weston for being such good friends. Grant and Weston have a little brother, Ryder, who is the same age as Landry...somehow I didn't get a picture of the two of them together.

It was such a wonderful day...peaceful, relaxing, and so enjoyable! Thank you Russ and Debbie for hosting us and sharing your little piece of heaven with us!

Whimsy Wednesday - Satin Flowers

2011-06-22T14:58:00.000-07:00

Well, another Wednesday is here already...that means that my summer is going by way too fast already! This week I would like to share with you something that I am in love with...and addicted to...satin flowers! I made these for the first time last week...and I have already made two more trips to JoAnn's to get more colors.

Here is the first set that I made: magenta, pewter, ivory, and mocha

Some "Americana" inspiration

Eggplant

Canary

Teal blue

Lilac

These are adorable in your hair, as an accent to "spice" up a plain tank top, or add them to your favorite pair of flip flops...and voila...adorable!

Besides the fact that they are so cute, I also love that they are perfect for any age. A lot of the things I make tend to be geared towards babies and toddlers. Not these...these can be worn by anyone, any age! Click the link to my Etsy store if you are interested in any...or you can e-mail me...or if you haven't "liked" my Facebook page, you can do that to. They are $5 a flower or 3 for $12...the flip flops are $10 a pair...just tell me the size and color!

I'll Stand By You

2011-06-21T10:56:00.000-07:00

Oh why you look so sad

The tears are in your eyes

Come on and come to me now

Don’t be ashamed to cry

Let me see you through

Cause I’ve seen the dark side too

When the night falls on you

You don't know what to do

Nothing you confess

Could make me love you less

I’ll stand by you

Won’t let nobody hurt you

I’ll stand by you

So if you're mad get mad

Don’t hold it all inside

Come on and talk to me now

Hey, what you got to hide

I get angry too

Well I’m a lot like you

When you're standing at the crossroads

And don't know which path to choose
Let me come along

Cause even if you're wrong

I’ll stand by you

Won’t let nobody hurt you

I’ll stand by you

Take me in into you darkest hour

And I’ll never desert you

I’ll stand by you

And when, when the night falls on you, baby

You feeling all alone

You won't be on your own

I’ll stand by you

Won’t let nobody hurt you

I’ll stand by you

Take me in into you darkest hour

And I’ll never desert you

I’ll stand by you

Oh I’ll stand by you

I’ll stand by you

Three years ago today, we made the vow to stand by each other...in good times...and in bad. Chad Garrett Lofgren...you have given me so many wonderful times over the past three years. It is amazing to see, as I look back at the pictures of our last three years together, how much has changed in our lives...and how much I continue to love you more and more each day. Like Jeff said as he married us..."You not only are in love with each other, you are in 'like' with each other!" I can't imagine being in "like" with anyone else! Love ya, Babe!

Mommy Moment Monday - Flooring

2011-06-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

I'm just going to get right to the point...

You know that you are a mom when you are convinced that what once was your carpet flooring is now comprised 99.9% of crushed Cheerios.

Yes, these pictures were taken on two different days. Notice that the culprit couldn't be found...oh ya...and obviously the "no-spill snack trapper" isn't so good at the whole "snack trapping" part...or the "no spill" part.

Whimsy Wednesday - 4th of July designs

2011-06-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

About a week ago I told you that there were a few "series" I would like to do on my blog. I already started one..."Mommy Moment Mondays"...hope you are liking them...and if you have any of your own moments, please share them with me! :o)

The other one that I will be starting is "Whimsy Wednesdays." Some of you may know that I have a teeny, tiny, itsy, bitsy, "side business"...a hint of whimsy. I create custom made onesies, t-shirts, burp cloth sets, hooded towels, pillowcase dresses, and so much more. My goal this summer is to create more products. In order to help me reach my goal I have decided to feature one new item a week...this way I will stay on task and keep creating!

This week I am featuring some brand new 4th of July onesie designs. Take a look:

Flag design

Red, white, and blue flower with a button center

Red, white, and blue flower with a rhinestone center

Star with button detail

Star with rhinestone detail

The Executive - blue bandana fabric

The Executive - red bandana print

I would love it if you would leave me a comment and let me know what you think! If you are interested in ordering anything, you can e-mail me, leave a comment or visit my Etsy shop...there is a link on the sidebar. Don't forget...all of these designs can be made on a onesie, t-shirt, or tank top...and they don't have to be just for kids! As always...if there is something you don't like, or would like changed...let me know...I aim to create pieces especially made for you!

Mommy Moment Monday - The View

2011-06-13T19:52:00.000-07:00

Did you think I had already forgotten? I almost did...almost...not completely...it was close. :o) Here it is:

You know that you are a mom when the view from your sunglasses is always a bit fogggy.

Why? Well, let's take a look!

A few notes about the above photos...sorry that they are so blurry - they are from my phone and my subject is discovering that he can "escape" picture taking...also, ignore the mess in the background...that's for a whole other Mommy Moment Monday! :o)

Flippy Floppies!

2011-06-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

I have another cute and easy gift idea for everyone. I gave these to the parents in my classroom that had so generously donated their time to help in our classroom.

All you need is a pair of Old Navy flip flops, cello wrap, fun ribbon, cardstock, and flip flop stickers. Who doesn't love a pair of flip flops for the summer? Another good thing is that you can kind of guess on the size since flip flops are pretty forgiving.

I cannot take credit for the idea...a former teacher gave me the idea...but I have used it ever since! This would also be a great favor for any kind of shower or party. I also think that it would be really fun to get a bunch of pairs in different colors, arrange them in a cute bucket, and give a "birthday girl" a bouquet of flippy floppies...you know that you would love it!

Mommy Moment Monday

2011-06-06T20:57:00.000-07:00

So, I have decided to do a few "series" here on my little blog spot. It is something that I have been thinking about for awhile but never pulled the trigger. Today's the day...carpe diem...ha! Yes, I do crack myself up. :o)

Anyway...back to it. During this past year of motherhood there have been so many things that have happened to me when I say to myself, "You might be a mom if..." So I have decided to share with you my "mommy moments." I know that you are super excited about this. :o)

One more thing...you have to read it with the best Jeff Foxworthy voice you have...trust me...its way funnier that way!

You might be a mom if...you have to hunt down your tupperware because you have a tupperware thief in your house!

The thief caught in the act:

There you have it...my first "Mommy Moment Monday!" I know tat you will be sitting on the edge of your seat, waiting for next Monday to roll around. :o)

Wild World of Insects!!!

2011-05-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Open House at my school and I have to admit it...I LOVE Open House. Granted, it is a TON of work...but I love having an excuse/reason to spend a month studying a subject and letting my creativity run wild. The second grade teachers at my school always do insects. So this year...room 1 was transformed into the Wild World of Insects!

Our Very Hungry Caterpillar facts

Each student wrote their own paragraph of caterpillar facts, typed them up, and created their body segment...complete with custom sneakers!

Another Eric Carle classic...The Very Grouchy Ladybug!

Each student wrote about why they thought the ladybug was grouchy...

The students created thir own "riddle" and parents had to guess what insect was in their jar:

Our Icky Bug Alphabet

We created our own "buggy garden" using our fingerprints to create a garden full of bugs.

Then each student had to write about what fraction of their garden was bees, ladybugs, butterflies, and caterpillars.

They made tissue paper butterflies..

Ladybug life cycles...

Bee facts...and Georgia O'Keefe inspired flowers adorned the ceiling!

Our team also did an art rotation. The students went to each class, learned about a specific artist, and recreated a well known piece of work.

We had VanGogh,

Monet,

and Seurat pointilism.

This was the first year...in eight years of teaching...yes, 8...but that's another story...that I had EVERY SINGLE family come to Open House. It was a great evening spent with families that have had such an impact on my life. We had a great time celebrating all of the hard work of the "Spectacular Second Graders in Room 1!"

Teacher Appreciation Day

2011-05-21T14:56:00.000-07:00

Each year, the parents at our school go above and beyond to show us how much they appreciate our hard work. Each group of room moms works together to create a poster that is displayed outside of each room. We always look forward to seeing what the class has created and every year they get more and more creative. This year, my FABULOUS team of room moms really went the extra mile. They created a poster that brought me to tears, captured the awe of everyone who passed by...which is everyone at our school since I am the first class in the hallway, and has put a smile on my face every time I enter my classroom. A little bakcground info on this poster...about two weeks ago, one of the room moms asked for a photo of myself. Since I didn't have any photos of just me...do any of you have a photo of just yourself...I had to send her a wedding photo...it was either that or a "belly" shot. The next day she asked if I could e-mail her a picture of Landry and I. Ha...I only have a few hundred of those! So, I sent the pictures...thinking that my head would be photshopped onto someone else's body. I never, in my wildest dreams imagined this...

Isn't it amazing? One of my room moms created the entire thing herself...I told you...FABULOUS! Did I mention that it is huge...3 feet by 4 feet...huge! This poster, all on its own made my day...then, the team of moms came in and presented me with this...

a beautiful arrangment of my favorite flowers and gift cards galore.

Here is my favorite part...each student created their own "fingerprint bug"...so adorable! Along with this, they gave me a basket of cards from each student. Their kind words once again brought tears to my eyes. The students wanted me to read each card aloud...but I chickened out. I knew that if I read them aloud then I would be a big, blubbery mess. So, instead, I read them to myself during recess...and was a big, blubbery mess. :o)

Here is a card that was in the arrangement.

When I went into teaching I knew that I would make some amazing relationships with the students I came into contact with. What I was not prepared for was the parents. I will be honest and say, that there have been a few that have stomped on my heart and said things to me that can never be forgiven. But, there is another...much larger group...that has supported, loved, comforted, inspired, and befriended me in ways that they will never know. I have been so blessed to make so many relationships with families that continue on after the school year, after their child moves on to the next grade level, or even on to the next school. From the bottom of my heart...thank you! Thank you for knowing that I love your child like my own and thank you for making my job so rewarding...you will never know the impact you have had on me!

Slacker

2011-05-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

Yup...I typed it...I'm a slacker! I know, that isn't a word that is normally associated with me...but it is true. My child has been 12 months old for almost 2 weeks and I still haven't posted his monthly pics with Lion. Every month leading up to this one, the latest I ever was was 1-2 days...now, for the "grand finale" I am 2 weeks late. Like I wrote...S-L-A-C-K-E-R. Late as I may be...here is his monthly picture with Lion.

Landry is such a bundle of joy. He is full of squeals, screams, "ma-ma," "da-da," "why," "uh-oh," and many other "words." Don't get too excited...yes, he says ma-ma and da-da...but it is not aimed towards us. Some of his new favorite things are crawling on all fours...yes, he finally decided to do that...dancing to music, opening the cabinet doors, chasing the cats, chewing on his crib, throwing anything he can get his hands on, banging things, and of course...eating!

Here are his stats from his 12 month check-up

weight: 22 pounds, 13 ounces - 50th percentile

length: 28 inches - top of the 5th percentile...whatever that means :o)

He is up to four and a half teeth...one hasn't come in all the way. He loves to pull himself up ad walk around anything, push his cars around...but still, no desire to take any steps or even stand up on his own. Have I mentioned that he is very "independent"...yes, that is code for "he does things his own way, the way HE wants to, when HE wants to"...wonder where he got that from? No matter what...he has brought us more happiness then we could have ever imagined and we love him more than he will ever know!

How the West was 1!

2011-05-08T08:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a blast celebrating our little man's 1st birthday!

Here is the invie that was sent to our closest friends and family. Thank you, Kristine Schroeder, for your amazing talent...she is AH-MAZING...seriously! Let me know if you want her info...she can do anything!

The "lootin'" table...cowboy cookie mix for the adults, cowboy hats and stick ponies for the kids...thank you, Natasha!

Cowboy cookie mix with the rubberband guns that were in the "L.T. Lofgren Shootin; Range"...unfortunately I didn't get a picture of the shooting range I set up. :o(

The centerpieces...thank you Trader Joe's for all of the FREE sunflowers...yes, there is a story behind that!

Good ol' drinking water...I made the labels myself, using Microsoft Word...so easy!

Around our patio I hung photos of Landry's first year, using twine from the Dollar Tree, clothespins I already had, and scrapbook paper I had as well.

Landry's birthday banner...with the help of my wonderful Silhouette machine, I was able to transform paper lunch sacks and old scrapbook paper into this...

The grub...we had "Tumbleweed tri-tip," "chuckwagon chili," stampedin' strawberries," "buckaroo broccoli slaw," and "rawhide rolls."

The "sweet stuff"...Landry's cake is on top, then cupcakes from Vons...thank you Vons for rescuing me from my cupcake crisis..."Landry's Lassos" - a.k.a. red ropes, and "brandin' irons" - a.k.a. chocolate covered pretzels. All of the food labels and cupcake toppers I also made using Microsoft word and my stash of scarpbook paper!

The birthday boy's cake...cowboy hat cake topper I ordered off of Etsy!

The "wanted" gallery! I created a wanted poster for every guest at the party. For example, "WANTED: Dale "Nawnie" Kruser...crime: spoiling the birthday boy!" It was a huge hit. Everyone loved reading what their "crime" was...so much that most of them took their poster with them! :o)

The sign on our front door...

and the sign on the door as our guests were on their way out...again, both were created using Microsoft Word and my scrapbook stash!

Our sweet, little family!

Sheriff Daddy...I made our shirts with iron on transfers...mine said Sheriff Mommy...duh!

Daddy and the birthday boy

My mom, sister, dad, aunt, and uncle

The Donovans

Troy and Tommy

Smile...never mind...cry! He was not very happy that we wouldn't let him have his cake until after we took a picture. :o)

Nothing like a cake topper on your head to show that it was a good party!

Do you think someone loves cake?

Can you find the dimple hidden under all the cake?

Poppie, Landry, and G.G. (Chad's parents)

Papa, Landry, and Nawnie (my parents)

Landry and Auntie Kaitlin

Landry and Great Papa (Chad's grandpa)

This is how real cowboys eat cake!

Gettin' cleaned up...mom even got to wear some cake!

Getting ready to open presents

Don't you even think about stealin' my loot!

Enough with the gifts already...I'm outta here!

All in all, it was a wonderful day spent with those that mean so much to us. Thank you everyone, for all of your love, care, and support. This has definitely been the mot amazing year of our life and you have all helped to make it enjoyable.

Special thanks to:

Our parents for all of your help

Kaitlin - partyware items

Jake-cooking the tri-tip

Brian-helping get the yard in order

Sheri-taking over as photographer so that I could enjoy the time with my special man

EVERYONE WHO JOINED CLEAN UP CREW...THANK YOU!!!!!

Let 'em ride!

2011-04-30T18:21:00.000-07:00

Today we got to celebrate Logan's 1st birthday! It is really funny how many similarities there are between Logan and Landry. They both had the same due date...Logan was born a week earlier than Landry! I had wanted to name Landry, Logan, and now they will both celebrate their birthday "Wild West" style! We had a great time and Landry even got to ride his first pony!

Here we are getting on...he did WAY better than I anticipated...didn't cry, scream, or anything...just kind of sat in shock for a little while!

"Mom...I can't smile...the sun is in my eyes!"

Much better!

Still not so sure about this thing!

"Hold the saddle like a real cowboy, Landry"

"Silly mom...real cowboys don't hold on!"

It was a fun afternoon...and a little sneak peak of next week's festivities. Also, after looking at the pictures of this post and the post of our zoo trip...I have decided...I need new sunglasses. Sorry, random, I know...but seriously...I look like a bug...and who wants to look like a bug?

Let's Go Do The Zoo!

2011-04-20T20:16:00.000-07:00

***Warning...this post contains A LOT of photos of two super cute babies...and their pretty cute mamas! :o)***

My friend Erin and I decided to take our little ones to the zoo for the first time. It is safe to say that we were not the only ones with this BRILLIANT idea...all of Fresno was thinking the same thing. :o) Anyway, we had a blast, almost lost a sippy cup to the orangutangs, avoided lots of bees, looked at many animals, and enjoyed some good ol' girl talk!

Landry and Amy ready to roll!

Me and Landry in front of the anteater exhibit

Erin and Amy with the elephants

Mommy and her "cool dude!"

We love the elephants!

Amy...making a move for Landry's binky

Got it!

Wait a minute...

okay...guess I'll give it back!

Our little mokeys...right after Landry threw his sippy cup into the exhibit!

Look at the giraffes!

The Fantastic Four!

Smile! I'm in a hippo!

Hooray for hippos!

This is the only animal picture I took all day. I couldn't pass it up...the life of a kangaroo must be real rough!

We love the zoo!

I think it is safe to say that we will definitely be going back...and I am pretty sure we will be buying a family pass! :o)

Yummy!

2011-04-17T07:04:00.000-07:00

A little over a week ago we started eating dinner altogether at the table. We are working our way out of the baby food and into real food. Landry couldn't be happier! For one thing, the child is a garbarge disposal...really...he will eat ANYTHING! It is great because he loves it all...including your food. So, we put him in his chair at the table, load his plate up with "big boy food"...I can't believe I am saying "big boy" already...and we all chow down.

"I love eating at the table!"

"This is my serious look."

"Just joking...I like to make people think that I am very serious...but I'm really just a goofball!"

"Do I have something on my face?"

"Just one more bite!"

"I do!"

2011-04-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

Last night one of my sister's oldest friends got married. My sister and Brittnee have been friends since elementary school and our families have been great friends for years. My sister, Kaitlin, was the maid of honor...and I just have to say that she is the best maid of honor ever! :o) So, we got Handsome all dressed up, enjoyed the beautiful weather, burger bar, and celebrated!

Landry sitting on dad's lap waiting for the ceremony to begin.

Here comes the bride!

My beautiful sister...yrs, she's having knee surgery in a week!

Me and my handsome boys!

Landry LOVES his Auntie Kaitlin!

Me and my handsome date!

Denial

2011-04-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

So, you may have noticed...I'm 3 days late. Yup, 3 days late on my monthly update. Not because I forgot. Nope. Because I am in D-E-N-I-A-L...denial. Denial that my inquisitive, tech loving, crawling machine, giggle monster, cat chasing, Jeopardy loving, push the limits, little man is 11 months old. It can't be possible. '

Although my dining room table and "studio"...a.k.a. sewing, craft, guest, if it doesn't have a home-throw it in here room..tell a different story with the many western projects in progress...for someone's big day next month.

+33333333333 - this is Landry's contribution to the blog...really...he crawled on up and typed that little memo all by himself...no lie!

Back to what I was saying...denial. Nope. No way is this cute face going to be one year old soon. Did you say you wanted to see it again...

Don't let him fool you...he isn't innocent...at all! :o) He does however love Jeopardy...seriously. He loves to push any kind of limit...grandparents...I hope you are ready for when he is a teenager...you may have him A LOT!

He is a little boy that is on the go. He loves to discover new things, try and figure out how things work...and most of all...make noise! Whether it is banging something on the wall, two toys together, a cabinet door...as long as it makes noise...it's fun!

One thing that he does get from his mommy is his love of speaking. Here he is giving Lion some life lessons. Every night...around 7:30...after Jeopardy is over of course...he will take his binky out of his mouth and start waving it around as he "tells" us all about his day. Most of the time it feels like we are getting some kind of lecture...he is very passionate about his topics! We just sit on the couch and laugh as he continues on, getting more and more animated and passionate. Oh how we love our nightly "talks!"

Our Happy Helper!

2011-04-02T19:55:00.000-07:00

Our little helper...helping daddy wax his snowboard...

Waxing is a fun job! When do I get to ride?

In or Out

2011-03-31T19:49:00.000-07:00

Well, we are officially a "child-proofed" house. Just try and open a cupboard in a hurry...you will be met with the quick snapping and breaking of your fingernails as the cabinet locks do their job. Pleasant. I know. Oh, and don't forget the mandatory baby gate. I used to say that I would NEVER have a baby gate in our house.

Take an Amazon loving hubby, Amazon gift cards, and one little munchkin that likes to go everywhere, put it all together and before you know it...you have a baby gate, in a box, on your front porch. Now it is time for me to admit...I do like the baby gate. Just a little bit. Okay. A lotta bit! Here is the little munchkin at his gate:

Who says baby gates are so bad?

Are you going to let me in?

Please...I'll even flash you a dimple!

A view from the other side...

So, it begs the question...are you locked in...or out?

For the Bride to Be!

2011-03-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the joy of celebrating a "Bride-to-Be!" My sister's dear friend, Brittnee, is getting married in just a few, short weeks. She and my sister have been friends since elementary schoo,l so Brittnee has kind of been like my second little sister. As many of you know, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE to make gifts personal and one of a kind. So, I spent a long time racking my brain to figure out what I could do for Brittnee that would be something personal, fun, and practical. Here's what I created:

It was so fun to let my "creative juices" go to work! I started by getting a set of kitchen towels from my favorite store in the entire world...Target. I knew that Brittnee's kitchen was done in black and white...which I love by the way...so, I picked up this fun set. Next, I used my A-MAZ-ING Silhouette craft cutter to design and cut out Brittnee's new monogram in a coordinating black and white fabric. Then, I simply ironed on the applique, stiched around the edges...and voila...a darling set of kitchen towels!

I think I am going to have to make myself a set...since they go perfectly in my kitchen, too! :o)

Being a fan of anything monogramed or personalized, I wanted to add something to Brittnee's gift that would represent this amazing journey that she is about to embark on. So, while I was at my favorite store, Target, I picked up an 8 x 10 frame. Once again, I used my A-MAZ-ING Silhouette craft cutter and designed an "established" monogram. Instead of using fabric or paper, I used vinyl! Side note...I'm addicted...watch out house...I have a feeling there may be a vinyl explosion! I transferred the vinyl design onto the front of the glass part of the frame and then added a piece of black and white fabric to the inside...the same fabric that I used for the monogram on her towels...because I have to be "matchy-matchy" like that. :o) Now, Brittnee has a cute little sign to hang in her kitchen, family room, dining room, wherever...and it has her monogram and the year they will be married.

And, if Brittnee decides that she wants to change up her color scheme...or put it in a room that isn't black and white...all she had to do is switch out the fabric in the frame and it is ready for the new room/decor! Ooohh...she could even switch it out with different scrapbook papers to coordinate with different holidays, seasons, events, etc...can you feel my excitement about that little idea...LOVE IT! So, there you have it...a fun, personalized, and practical bridal shower gift! :)

A Habit

2011-03-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

My friend, Erin and I were able to get together tonight with out little ones. We are trying to make it a habit of getting together every week or so. What a better place to start this tradition off but...The Habit in Fig Garden. If you remember a few moths ago, I posted about our Starbucks dates...along with a really cute picture of Landry and her daughter, Amy. We sat outside, on the covered, heated patio, ate, visited and listened to the rain come pouring down. Landry was very interested in Amy from the get go. He kept trying to reach over to her at first. Finally, we sat them up for another "couple shoot." So much fun!

Hey there, cutie!

Smile...we LOVE having our picture taken!

Are we cute or what?

I "stole" this last photo from Erin's Facebook page! :o)

Kiss Me...

2011-03-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

I'm not Irish...but don't you wanna kiss me anyway?

10 Months

2011-03-07T21:13:00.000-08:00

I know that I say this every month...but really, 10 months...already! Where has the time gone? I thought it would be fun to take a look back over the past 10 months and see how much Landry has grown, changed, developed, etc.

1 month old

2 months old

3 months old

4 months old

5 months old

6 months old

7 months old

8 months old

9 months old

and now...10 months old

Is it just me...or has someone taken my baby and replaced him with a little boy? A little boy who loves to scoot around the house, babble at anyone who will listen, bang toys together, push any kind of button, say "uh-oh" over and over again, play catch with his daddy...or even himself...he is definitely turning into a little boy!

We are so blessed to have such an amazing, loving, happy, and fun little man in our house. He has brought so much laughter and filled our hearts with so much love. The last 10 months have been a roller coaster for sure...but the highs definitely out way and out number the lows. You are my "bubs," "handsome," "little man," and more than anything...my pride and joy!

Brush 'em, Brush 'em, Brush 'em

2011-02-22T20:32:00.000-08:00

Yup, the little man LOVES to brush his teeth! Tonight was the first time that we busted out the toothbrush...hopefully we haven't already ruined his teeth. :o) We were very curious to see how he was going to like, tolerate, cooperate, deal, with having his teeth brushed. Well, I think the pictures speak for themselves!

From our family to yours...

2011-02-14T20:54:00.000-08:00