Island Adventures

I failed to get a single photo of the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner or wedding of our friend's that I so wanted to capture for the blog (and myself) and am hoping to update the blog with some of those when pictures become available......hint, hint~JD. What I did get photos of was our mini vacation/camping trip out to the Channel Islands last week. It was a fun trip all in all, but tiring to drag a teen & toddler along for a one night camp over.

The trip started out beautifully with our friends Andi, Ed & Mia. We all boarded the boat with excited toddlers awaiting the ride. Not long after we set out to sea their smiling faces turned pale and less joyful by the minute. The swell in the channel was pretty large causing quite a bit of motion sickness among the passengers. Maya ended up barfing twice all over the boat, her infamous "can't leave home without it" blanket, and of course her heroic daddy (who almost lost his cookies after her second round of spewing breakfast). Thanks for taking one for the team daddy!

Still excited

Going, going....

Gone!

On the way out the captain spotted an enormous creature that seemed just as curious about us as we were about her. A gorgeous blue whale circled the boat showing off her long shiny body and gave us a lengthy show. Soon after the blue whale sighting we spotted a mother and baby humback whale duo. Needless to say, the ride out to the island was an eventful & exciting journey.

Once we got off the boat, we had a little lunch and took off on a hike. Maya loved running around rather than being stuck in the backpack.

Bri, on the other hand decided she couldn't manage another step (after feeling the effects of the Dramamnine she took) and planted herself right down in the middle of the trail for a short nap while we explored a little further.

It was a beautiful sight..........

The camping was fun and it was nice to get away from the demands of every day life. We pretty much had the campground to ourselves thankfully and I absolutely loved going to bed at dusk.....when do we ever get the chance to do that at home??? I was up at sunrise for a beautiful walk out on the beach to watch the sea lions playing and the pelicans gliding along the water. If there's one thing that I love to see when I'm on vacation in a beautiful place, it's the sun rising to greet me. Hands down, there's no better time of day. Everything is so still and quiet giving me a peaceful time to reflect and start fresh.

Oh, Happy Day

Just wanted to post a quick picture of a day trip I took with my dear friend Julia to the Botanical Gardens a couple of weeks ago. We had a peaceful day, just roaming along winding paths, green meadows, and some wooden bridges. Here's a taste of our fun day.

Nikki's Day

Just had to post some photos of my very best childhood friend, Nikki. She passed away at 21 years old of a genetic disease called Cystic Fibrosis. I can't help but to smile every time I think of her. She had a joyful zest for life and the best sense of humor I've ever seen. She was a clown, always making me laugh with her break dancing moves or by stuffing her bra with anything she could fit into it. I miss her so much and over 10 years after her death still treasure the friendship we had.

This weekend I will be honoring Nikki with some friends & family by doing a fundraising walk for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. I am so blessed to have the health and ability to do this for all those who suffer with this horribly tragic disease.

As for Nikki, I will remember you always and treasure the imprint you have left on my heart.

New Life!

She's arrived! My good friend Susie had her beautiful baby girl last week. Everyone is healthy and happy. Little Caroline arrived at 6:48pm weighing 6lbs, 6oz. Can't wait to meet her.

xoxo

Blog truancy

I never knew I could feel guilty about neglecting the blog, but low and behold I feel like a certain part of my life has been on pause since I haven't been posting recently. So here's a quick photo session I did with Maya about a week and a half ago in her new-used clothing that I picked up at the local children's consignment store. They have such great things and I LOVE the idea of reusing items rather than constantly consuming new things. I found an adorable dress for her to wear to our friends wedding next week as well. I'll be sure to post some awesome photos when that day comes..........no really, I will. Hope your weekend is beautiful.

xoxo

Happy Birthday, Beautiful Girl!!!

Cupcakes, cupcakes, must be done by noon. Get up, get out of bed. I need to celebrate! Today's the day that she was born, the day my life was forever changed. She's growing so very fast and before I know it she'll be gone out on her own. Cupcakes, cupcakes must be done. How could this time have passed so quickly? Just yesterday she was learning how to ride her bike. Just last week she was tiny as could be curled up right next to me. But here she is now at 5'3" and I'm happy to see the young woman she is and will be. She blows me away every day with her smile and her laughter and on days her new found sass. I'm as proud as I ever thought I could be.

So HAPPY, HAPPY DAY dear daughter of mine! I'm so glad to celebrate you this day, year, lifetime. Cupcakes are done, off to school to watch you and your friends devour them. You bless my life more than you could ever know. All my love to you my sweet....

Fun times

Mia & Maya

Mia was having a little diaper trouble

Moria, Peter & Maya

Gianna & Leo

Leo & Grammy

Laughing Leo

So many photos, but I couldn't resist. My girlfriend, Andi, and I went on a little day trip with our littlest girls for a visit to the zoo, lunch with good friends visiting from San Francisco and a beach stop with my cousin Gianna. We had a great day, long....but great! Hope your day is happy.

xoxo

Little Buddies

Can't believe how well this turned out

Mr. Man

You are....

My softest blanket to wrap up in when I need warmth,

The bench that supports me when I need a break from the chaos,

The voice that encourages me when I don't know who I am or where I'm headed,

A friend that knows me like no other - and still loves me,

An amazing example of patience, kindness and strength to our children

The truest love I have ever known

Goodbye Grandpa Harry....

Last wednesday we got the news that Matt's dear grandpa Harry had passed away. Although we are sad to know that we will no longer have the chance to see his smile or hear his laughter, we are so thankful for his long and full life of 99 years and also his peaceful departure. He will certainly be missed.