Berly's Blog

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2006-09-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

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Originally uploaded by berlydallas.

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Ten Things of Christmas

2005-12-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

The Holiday Ten

Instructions: Copy and paste the questions to your blog (with your answers, not mine).

One. What is your favorite holiday movie?
Love Actually! It has my favorite British actors: Hugh Grant, Alan Rickman, Liam Neeson, and Colin Firth!!!

Two. What is your favorite holiday song (title and artist)?
All I Want for Christmas by Mariah Carey

Three. What’s the best holiday gift you were ever given, and why?
I think that my children our the best holiday gifts I was ever given since they were both born around the holidays.

Four. Do you have a special someone to kiss at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s?
Yes, the same person for the past 11 years!

Five. Name of your favorite reindeer?
Vixen

Six. Favorite Holiday food?
Bavarian Mint, my Grandma Verna's recipe. I make them every year and I don't know if I can find the ingredients here in China to make them this year!!!

Seven. Snow day — cuddle by the fire, or hand me a snowball?
Cuddle by the fire, but I have kids now, so snowballs of course!

Eight. What was your New Year’s resolution for this year? Did you stick to it?
I think it was to get through this year, which I have.

Nine. Is there really a Santa Claus?
Yes

Ten. Present, or stocking stuffer?
Presents and stocking stuffers

In Memorium

2005-10-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

I recevied sad news yesterday morning that our friend Annette Hess, who was about 29 weeks pregnant lost her baby girl. We are very sad for our friends and want them to know they are in our thoughts.

In Baby News...

2005-09-24T18:50:00.000-07:00

In baby news my sister Jenny and her husband welcomed their first baby Abigail Kathryn into the world on Thursday, September 22nd. Abby was 5 lbs, 2 oz and mother and baby are doing well. There was also a weird coincidence, my friend in Arizona, Donna Rugg also had a baby on the 22nd and named her Abigail! Congratulations to everyone!

We are in China now!

2005-09-14T14:21:00.000-07:00

I realized last night that I didn't share my new blog address with my faithful readers. I have started a new blog to chronicle our new adventure in China. I have only posted a couple of times, so I hope you enjoy Chengdus and Don'ts!

http://chengdusanddonts.blogspot.com/

I still pictures to share from N. Ireland, so I hope to post those in the next couple of days on Berly's blog. I look forward to your comments!

Scotland the Brave!

2005-09-09T18:34:00.000-07:00

After spending the day with Jonny's family in Perth we headed into Edinburgh, Jonny's home for his 4 years during University, to show my dad the sights. Edinburgh is a beautiful city, one where I could definitely live. We were going to be staying with our friends Nick and Jen Ball and their son Charlie. Jen and Jonny went to University together and Jonny had the great honor of giving Jen away at her wedding 5 years ago.

We started our tour of Edinburgh by taking the open top bus tour, which is usually really good. Fortunately and unfortunately the Edinburgh Festival parade was going on at the same time, so we missed some really great sights.

Gemma, Me, and Angus (eating the seat) on the open top bus.

It was exciting to be in Edinburgh during the festival as there were many theatre productions going on and many street actors trying to entice us into attending their performance.

Fringe actors

A very dead looking Fringe actor.

On our second day in Edinburgh we took my dad to Edinburgh Castle. I have been to the Castle at least 3 times and every time it is more enjoyable of a visit. Here are a few photos of the Castle.

The entrancece of the Castle.

Jonny, Gemma, Angus and me inside the Castle.

Gemma sitting on something she isn't suppose to in the Castle.

Gemma sitting on a cannon in the Castle.

A view from the Castle down to Princes Street.

Here are where they keep the Crown Jewels of Scotland.

My dad with the kiddos.

This is the best toursty shot in Edinburgh. Isn't the Castle beautiful from this angle!

After our tour of the Castle we headed back to the Balls house for dinner and prepared for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The Tattoo is performed just outside of Edinburgh Castle every year during the month of August and during the Edinburgh Festival. This years Tatto consisted of performances of massed pipe and drum bands, motorcycle team, massed highland dancers, Royal Marine display, Steel Drum band from Trinadad and Tabago, Russian Cossack State Dance Company, etc. The night was amazing! I was very surprised by the multi-cultural aspect of the Tattoo. I expected it to be just pipe bands performances. There were motorcycle performances, the Royal Marines showing their military prowess in a skit , Russian dancing and singing, highland dancers and in true Scottish fashion the pipe bands played a Rod Stewart tune and of course Robert Burn's Auld Lang Syne. Here are a few pictures from the evening:

Trinidad and Tobago defensece Force Steel Orchestra

The remainder of our time in Edinburgh we spent walking around Edinburgh checking out the beautiful architecture, the Fringe Festival, the gardens, and people watching.

While walking in the gardens we met this very large Irish Wolfhound.

There were a ton of piper standing around the streets in full Scottish attire playing the bagpipes for photo opportunities. Here is my dad with on of the street pipers.

Jonny, my Dad, and Gemma went for a tour of Holyrood Castle. Holyrood is the Queen's residence when she is in Edinburgh. Here is a view from outside of the castle. Not a bad view for being in the center of the city!

In the gardens we saw this very creative clock made out flowers and plants. It actually is a running clock!

While walking down the Royal Mile we ran into this gallery. It has the name of Gemma's little boyfriend Carson Clark!

We had a fabulous time in Edinburgh! We look forward to our next trip! The Balls took good care of us and Gemma really enjoyed seeing Charlie again.

Charlie and Gemma

Jen, Nick and Charlie

Our visit to Perth

2005-09-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Highland Cow

After our most enjoyable time at Adi and DotÂs wedding we headed back to Perth to spend the day with JonnyÂs Aunt Inez and Uncle John. We were also able to see their daughter Amanda and her two teenagers Andy and Amy.

Andy

Amy

The group outside the GirvanÂs flat in Perth, Scotland.

As always we had a lovely visit with the Girvan clan and their hospitality was impeccable!

Next up, Edinburgh!

WELCOME BABY ETHAN!!!

2005-09-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

I apologize for this post being out of order. My thoughts have been scattered as of late with everything going on with our move.

The day after we arrived in Northern Ireland Jonny's sister Karen and her husband Richard had their 3rd child, Ethan James. Congratulations to the Porter family and we hope you don't have too many sleepless nights!

Big sisters Rebekah and Erin

Ethan with his new cousin Gemma!

A Beautiful Wedding

2005-08-30T09:56:00.000-07:00

The church in Stirling, Scotland

After getting caught up on much needed sleep, we got back on a plane and headed to Scotland for the wedding of one of JonnyÂs roommate from college, Adrian Lobley and his lovely bride Dot. I generally dread going to weddings in the UK because frankly I canÂt keep up with the drinking and usually have to deal with a very silly husband. I also very self conscious of what I wear to the wedding as everyone dresses so gorgeous for weddings.

The bride was absolutely gorgeous and the groom was as handsome as ever. I always thought JonnyÂs friend Adi was a cutie, but there is just something about men in kilts!

Adrian and Dot

I would have to say that the wedding was the tamest I have ever attended, in the UK that is. We have all aged, so no one is able to party like rock stars anymore + most everyone has small children and the thought of having to care for your kids with a hangover is not appealing in the least. We were delighted to see all of JonnyÂs friends from University. They always seem to pick up from where they left off. It was also great seeing everyoneÂs partners too. I always feel so welcome! Of course everyone looked fabulous and stylish.

From the left: Big Paul, Murray, Cogs, Jonny, Murph, Ban, Sean, and Quiet Man
(Can you guess which guys are Scottish and which are Irish???)

Adi the handsome groom!

The beautiful bride and her Dad

The service was beautiful and then we went on to the reception at the University in Stirling. We all met up for drinks before the dinner and had a great time catching up. Instead of talking about our careers we were all having a ball talking about our kids. Everyone seemed to be sad that the kids weren't able to attend the wedding, so they all could play together. We had a lovely dinner which included an appetizer of haggis, tatties and neeps, which I passed on (generally I would have passed on it, but they also offered potato leek soup!), but had a bite of Jonny's and it was fabulous! The main course was salmon or chicken and pavlova or creme bruleedessertesset. I know many people in the US don't think British food is good, but I have to say the food I have had in the UK is probably the most creative, flavorful food I have ever had and this meal was very yummy. After dinner the drinks kept flowing and the band started. I was able to get pictures of Jonny's friends and their partner to share with everyone.

Jonny and me

Sean (one of our groomsmen) and Rachel

Murray (one of JonnyÂs roommate from University) and Sue

Murph and Melanie

Quiet Man and Joanna

Ban and Sam

Cogs and Nicola

We also did a bit of Ceilidh dancing. Jonny and I don't know how to Ceilidh dance, but it is a bit like Square Dancing. Most of the us went out and tried to dance, but we weren'tsuccessfulessful. We were hosuccessfulessful in ticking off a few more serious dancers. We had a ball trying and I don't think I have laughed that hard in a long time.

feeble feble attempt at Ceilidh dancing!

Murray in his kilt (I managed not tanyone'snyones family jewels this wedding!)

Ban and his hair (one of my avid blog readers!)

All in all the evening was a ton of fun! Jonny and I were safely in bed by about 2 a.m. and slept in until almost 10 a.m. We look forward seeing everyone again in the next couple of years. Hopefully we will some of our friends will be visiting us in China!

Arriving in Northern Ireland

2005-08-29T21:21:00.000-07:00

We arrived safe and sound in Belfast on Monday afternoon. We were greeted by very happy Grandparents. Everyone was very happy to see one another. We were also greeted with the news that Jonny’s sister Karen was going in to be induced to have her baby! We were all exhausted so we headed to Limavady for some much needed sleep.

Nanny Caroline and Angus

Papa Cyndy (he, he!) and Gemma

We all went to bed around 8 p.m., but Gemma, Angus, Caroline and I were all out of our beds around 3 a.m. We were unable to sleep. The kiddos were very hungry and I was excited because my dad was arriving around 7 a.m. I went in the kitchen, which was fully stocked with our favorite Irish breakfast foods. I fried some bacon rashers and toasted some potato bread. Let me tell you how yummy it was! The kids and I went back to bed until 9 a.m. Not too bad!

My Dad made it back to the house around 10 a.m. and he was so happy to see everyone, especially the kids. I was so happy to see him and very excited to show him around Jonny’s homeland.

Angus and Papa Steve

Travelin’ with the Kiddos

2005-08-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

I don’t really like to back blog, but as I said in my earlier post, I hate posting without photos. I think my photography is way better than my writing style. I really wanted to share some of our photos from our trip so you can see the beauty of Northern Ireland and Scotland.

Gemma with some kids she met at the airport who were on their way to Greece.

Angus crawlin' around the airport.

Gemma getting ready for sleep.

I have to say that the kids traveled very well. I have no complaints. They slept most of the way to London and then napped again on the way to Belfast. It was quite relaxing. Jonny was also able to sleep most of the way. I on the other hand didn't sleep a wink and the movies on the flight were crap! Anyway, I think the key to traveling with kids especially at long distances is to not stress out about it. I was more focused about being upside down when we arrived I didn't even think about the plane journey. Hopefully that will apply to our upcoming move to China, which includes a 1 hour flight to LA, 12+hour flight to Bejing, and a 2+hour flight to Chengdu!

Home Sweet Home!

2005-08-27T07:40:00.000-07:00

We have arrived home safe and sound. We had a marvelous trip and we really enjoyed the time we spent with our family and friends. A special thank you goes out to my Father and Mother-in-Law, Sister and Brother-in-Law, our gorgeous nieces and new little nephew for taking care of us while we were in Northern Ireland. Also, a special thank you to John and Inez Girvan and Jen, Nick, and Charlie Ball for looking after us while were in beautiful Scotland! Thank you for making us feels at home! We love you all!!! To those of you who have been reading my blog and are starting to read my blog I hope this helps bridge the gap between us all!

Tagged in the UK and posted in the US

2005-08-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

My new blogging friend VeryAZ Ape tagged me and wants me to list ten songs that I am currently diggin'. I must admit, the currently playlist is very much influenced by my 3 year old daughter, but here it goes....

1. Mama Mia by ABBA
2. Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson
3. Cool by Gwen Stefani
3. A Whole Lot of Rosie by AC/DC (na, na, na, na, na, na ANGUS!)
4. Vehicle by Bo Bice
5. One Week by The Barenaked Ladies
6. My Doorbell by The White Stripes
7. Don't Cha by the Pussycat Dolls with Busta Rhymes
8. Don't Lie by Black Eyed Peas
9. Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani
10. Vincent of Jersey/Leaving Song by Big Head Todd and the Monsters

Beautiful Northern Ireland

2005-08-16T15:07:00.000-07:00

Today we were able to visit the most beautiful and popular sites in Northern Ireland. We were in Co. Antrim enjoying the majestic view of the Antrim coast. Imagine every color of green you could think of, hexagonal stone pillars of all shapes and sizes, teal ocean water, and lots of cows and sheep and that was our day.

We started our day at the Giant's Causeway. The Giant Causeway are incredible rock formations that were formed by lava over 60 million years ago. My dad and Gemma really enjoyed the Causeway. My dad, who is known to be a little camera happy (He has had 3 camera strapped to him this entire trip!), took hundreds of shots of the rocks while miss Gemma used them as her personal playpark. We had a lovely lunch at the Causeway which was much needed because our next stop was the Bushmills Whiskey Distillery.

Bushmills is the worlds oldest licensed whiskey distillery receiving their license in 1608. My dad and I took the tour and I have to say it was very informative. At the end of the tour they asked for 2 female and 2 male volunteers. I thought it was to pass out the whiskey sample at the end of the tour, but it was to do a whiskey tasting. Jonny loves whiskey and has quite a collection, but I never touch the stuff. I went ahead with the tasting and I still have not acquired a taste for whiskey. I would have to say the Bushmills Single Malt 10 year was the best in the taste test though.

After the tour we all headed down to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. I have been to N. Ireland 8 times now and have managed to miss this tourist attraction mainly because I am kind of a chicken. The way Jonny and my inlaws always described the bridge is two ropes and a board over the sea and a bunch of rocks. Sound appealing to you? In 2000 they have made some improvements to the bridge and it seems to be quite safe so I took a chance along with Gemma and went over the bridge. It was a perfect ending to a perfectly scenic day. I am looking forward to sharing pictures most likely when I return from Northern Ireland.

Posting without Pictures

2005-08-12T12:51:00.000-07:00

I really don't like to post without pictures, but unfortunately until I find an internet cafe with high speed internet over here that is how is going to have to be. I have some great photos of the wedding we attended in Scotland, fabulous pictures of Edinburgh Castle and very scenic pictures of N. Ireland to share with you all.

We are having a great time on our vacation. We had only one minor mishap. On the way to the airport in Scotland, Jonny managed to miss the exit to the airport and we missed our flight due to a traffic jam, an accident, stalled car, and a road construction. Fortunately enough our dear friends Jen and Nick Ball put us up another night in their gorgeous Victorian home. (Have pictures of them and the home! It is over 140 years old!)

Since returning to N. Ireland we have been visiting with our family and hanging around the house visiting, drinking gallons of tea, eating tons of biscuits, and relaxing. Jonny has been been appointed my Dad's tour guide and has been showing him the great sites of Northern Ireland. We have also been minus one little girl while we have been here. Gemma has spent the last two night at her cousin's house. She is having the time of her life and I really don't know how she will manage when we have to come back home. She just loves them to pieces!!!

I am very happy to say that I have been knitting up a storm! I started my clapotois and it is coming along quite nicely. I didn't even need to email anyone for help! I also have been working on my new nephew Ethan James Porter's blanket (stay tuned for pictures!). While I was in Scotland I also managed to get a new project. Our friend Jen tried to take up knitting after I sent her a gorgeous little sweater for her son Charlie. She got her project cast on, but then decided she didn't like knitting. She gave me the yarn and I am going to knit it for her.

Tomorrow we are doing some more touring around N. Ireland. I hope to have some pictures by next Monday.

P.S. I have been tagged by Diary of a Sane Man to make a list of the songs that I am diggin'. I am working on it, does Peek-a-Boo I Love You count?????

Bonnie Scotland!

2005-08-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Scotland this afternoon. Jonny's Aunt Inez and Uncle John met us at the airport. It was lovely to see them and the beautiful Scottish countryside. On the flight from Belfast we met one of Jonny's friends from college who will also be attending the wedding with us tomorrow. Small world.

We are really looking forward to our first night away from the kiddos. I have had mixed emotions, but it has to be done. I have been trying to get enough milk supply for my mother-in-law to feed the little man, but I think I will be waking in the middle of the night to pump. My inlaws and Dad are going to come and 'view' the wedding, something I have never heard of, but apparently it is quite common for uninvited (not in a bad way) to come and view random weddings. It will give me a chance to feed the little man a couple more times before they head back to Perth.

As for the wedding, wish me luck! If you have ever had a chance to attend a British wedding, it is quite the drinking fest. I will be very lucky to get my husband to bed before 5 a.m. Thank goodness Saturday will be a day of rest...Will give you all an update after the wedding! I should have some great kilt shots!!!

We have arrived!

2005-08-02T13:43:00.001-07:00

We have arrived safe and sound. We had a great flights, in fact it only took 8 hours, 30 minutes from Phoenix to London. The kids were fantastic! Angus slept most of the way and Gemma was just such a trooper. She was just so excited and kept telling everyone from the security guard at Phoenix Sky Harbor to strangers getting ready to board the plane that she was going to go and see her Nanny and Papa. We only had one mishap on the trip. We forgot Angus' bag at London Heathrow. We didn't even realize it until we landed in Belfast that we were missing a bag. It probably had to do with the fact that we had a total of 8 bags + 2 car seats with us! (For those of you familiar with Heathrow airport, try taking all of that stuff between terminal 4 and terminal 1, NIGHTMARE!!!!)

We also had great news on our arrival. Jonny's sister Karen was heading to the hospital to have her baby. She delivered a little baby boy at 4 a.m. this morning. We are heading down to Belfast tomorrow to see the baby and we hope to have pictures sometime soon.

I also wanted to make you Phoenicians jealous. The temperature is in the 60s and the sun was shining this evening + it is light until 10 p.m.! Whoopee!

We're leavin' on a jet plane...

2005-07-31T15:19:00.000-07:00

Tonight we are leaving for Northern Ireland/Scotland to see our family in friends. We have been looking forward to this trip for a long time. Gemma is just beside herself with excitement. She has asked us a gazillion times what day she was going to see her Nanny and Papa and Becca and Erin. It is amazing to me as a parent how much pleasure that I get from her excitement. I am just happy because she is so thrilled to go see her relatives. I have to say that I am very fortunate that we are able to get our kids back to see their Irish family and heritage.

Wish us luck on the plane with 2 kiddos! A 9 hour, 50 minute flight + 3 hour layover and then another 1 hour and 20 minute flight might be a little challenging. Lucky for us there are free drinks over the Atlantic!

A surprise guest from down Unda!

2005-07-30T21:40:00.000-07:00

We had surprise company this week from Townsville, Queensland, Australia! Jonny's cousin's son Kyle breezed few town for a few days. Kyle just finished high school and was in the Philadelphia working at a camp for a couple months and stopped by to see us on his way home. I have to say Kyle was an absolute joy to have around! He was fabulous with our kids and his parents have done a excellent job raising him!

During Kyle's visit we were able to take him to a Diamondback game, the state capital, and best of all I took him shopping! He was pleasantly surprised by the prices of clothes here vs. back home in Australia.

We had a great time with Kyle and we hope to get over to see him and his family sometime in the next couple years!

Kyle, Angus and Jonny posing with their beers!

All Dressed-Up and No Place to go...

2005-07-29T19:25:00.000-07:00

Gemma and her very good friend Carson played dress-up last week at playgroup. I absolutely loved this picture! Carson was a good sport and dressed up like a princess too! Aren't they adorable!

And I raaaaaan, I ran so far awaaaaay...

2005-07-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to grow Gemma's bangs or as Jonny would call it 'fringe' I have been putting a small pony tail on the top of Gemma's head with her bangs. Her hair looks very 'Pebblesesque'. When we take her pony tail out at night, this is what we get! Now what 80's band lead singer's hair looks like this????

Update on Mr. Angus

2005-07-27T22:36:00.000-07:00

We found out from our wonderful Pediatrician Dr. Hemphill, that Angus has one kidney with II reflux and III reflux, which is mild and moderate. Angus is scheduled to go the the Pediatric Urologist on August 24th, but in the mean time they are treating him with a antibiotic to prevent him from getting a urinary tract infection. He most likely will be on this medicine for a year and then be retested. It should clear up by itself within the year. To us that is good news! We were very scared of the unknown and we are glad that it won't require surgery. Thanks to everyone for their kind words and thoughts. It really helped me relieve stress by posting about Angus' condition and to see that everyone was thinking about him. We will let you know how everything goes at the Uroligist next month.

A little nervous...

2005-07-25T22:25:00.000-07:00

Today I had to take Angus to some follow-up tests for the urinary tract infection he had last month. I was a little nervous and the Radiologist didn't make me feel any better about the test. The poor little man had to be catherized, strapped to a wooded board, pumped full of dye, and have a huge machine above him taking pictures of his inners while I tried to comfort him. After the tests I asked the Radiologist if he found anything 'matter of factly' said "he has reflux on both sides" and walked out of the room. This man's bedside manner was atrocious! I went home and did a little research on kidney reflux. We spoke to our Pediatrician this afternoon and he will tell us tomorrow morning what our next steps are going to be. We are hoping that he will only needed to be treated with antibiotics and that he will grow out of it. Please keep us in your thoughts, it has been a very stressful afternoon and evening to say the least.

And the winner is.....

2005-07-22T21:19:00.000-07:00

CHENGDU'S AND DON'TS, THE INS AND OUT OF LIVING IN ANOTHER COUNTRY
CONGRATULATIONS TO MEL!!! Melanie is in my knitting group and I have had the pleasure of knowing her for almost 2 years. I am working on the prize and will announce what it is over my blog. A special thank you to PJS for his 8 very witty entries, two that made the final cut. Thank you so much to everyone who used their creative juices to name my China blog. I really loved the humor!!!

The results of the China blog contest

2005-07-20T21:36:00.000-07:00

I thought I would have the results for the "Name Kim's China Blog" contest, but I am torn between 3 entries. I am going to ask you to vote one the 3 finalist and then I will decide from your votes.

Here are the 3 favorites:
1. Chengdu's and Don'ts, the ins and outs of living in a new country
2. Does that come with an Eggroll?
3. Picking out China patterns

I will announce the winner on Friday!

Baby Tatum has arrived!!!

2005-07-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned yesterday, our friends Jill and Joe welcomed their third baby into this world. She was 7 lbs, 11 oz and 20 1/2 inches long. We were lucky enough to be able to run to the hospital today to visit the Barkats and their new bundle of joy. Above is a picture of Daddy Joe, Big Sis Peyton, and Big Brother Landon with Baby Tatum. Sorry no pictures of the baby with Mom, but I have just requested one.

Tatum looks just like her Landon in this picture.

Peyton and Tatum

Landon and Tatum

Kim, Gemma and Tatum, I think I will have another! Well done Barkats!

Another movie review

2005-07-19T20:43:00.000-07:00

Last night Jonny and I took a little time out from planning our move to China and watched the movie "House of Flying Daggers". I have to say that every since seeing "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" I have been fascinated by artistically done martial arts films. House of Flying Daggers was very similar to "Hero" and I loved both movies. I thought that they were both so well done that I didn't even realize I was reading subtitles the whole time. The choreography was amazing and Ziyi Zhang is an incredible actress. I am looking forward to seeing her in "Memoirs of a Geisha" coming out later this year. If you get a chance to rent either of these movies and love a good arty film these are the films for you.

We had a busy day today. Gemma had her last cheerleading class and afterwards we met our friends Marne her daughter Elizabeth and Katherine and her sons Lincoln and Nolan for a playdate at Kidstown. It was so packed at Kidstown, it looked like the whole east valley was there to beat the heat. After our playdate we went to the Nelson's house to have lunch and for Gemma to have a playdate. Holly and Nicholas were out of town for over a month and they had a great reunion today. Angus and I had a nice afternoon at home, he slept and I cleaned.

More good news, our friends the Barkats welcomed their new baby girl, Tatum into the world today. I hope to have pictures by tomorrow of her. Mom and babe are doing well.

Tomorrow is another busy day. We have to go and see the new baby + we have a lunch date and I have a shopping date! Whoopee!!!

Past posting...

2005-07-17T21:01:00.000-07:00

I am finally getting caught up with my posting. I don't really like to back post, but there were so many adorable pictures I could not deprive my reader (especially our family) the chance to see the kiddos. Last Wednesday we were so excited to have a chance to get together with Brooke, Jack, and Brooke Mom Sandee. Gemma was so excited that Sandee bought M&M baking bits especially for Gemma. Gemma was very disappointed at the Easter when Sandee had us up to decorate cookies, that she didn't have the M&Ms.

Here is Angus and his buddy Jack.

Jack is quite the mover. He is crawling around every where! I was telling Brooke that I don't evny her having to chase him around all day. I am very content with Angus just sitting on his bottom and smiling away.

Angus, Sandee, Jack, and Gemma

We had a fantastic time at Sandee's house and we will really miss her when we are in China!

On Friday we went over to Julie's house for a swim date. Julie just put in a new pool and it is gorgeous! Her beautifully decorated house backs to a lake and her pool has a negative edge, so it kind of looks like the pool flows into the lake. Here is Angus sitting on the extended step.

Here is Gemma by the edge of the pool over looking the lake.

Here is our gracious host Julie with Gemma. Julie served us a fantastic lunch and we enjoyed cooling off in her pool. Unfortunately Julie's little man Mac was taking a nap and wasn't able to join us in the pool.

Gemma, Angus, and Jack.

Brooke and Jack

Later Angus, Jack, and Mac were able to play a little while before we headed home. We really appreciated Julie's hospitality and enjoyed her lovely home!

I do have to make a comment about spending so much time with Brooke and Jack recently. I think that Jack inspired Angus to start crawling! He is really starting to scoot and has been taking a few crawling steps. I think I am in for it! Can you imagine a 10+ hour flight across the Atlantic with someone who wants to move all the time! Ugh!

This evening I was able to stop by our friends the Stinson's to drop off dinner to them. I had meant to do it right after the baby was born, but poor little Ty ended up in the hospital for about a week. Thankfullly he is home and doing much better. He is absolutely adorable and really makes me long for those small baby days with Angus.

I also have to share some picture my dad just sent me. My sister Becky and her sons Isaac and Aiden were over at his house and he took some pictures for me. They are so cute!

Aiden and Isaac

Becky and Isaac

And the contest continues...

2005-07-16T23:14:00.000-07:00

I have decided to give everyone a chance until next Wednesday to use your creative juices and put your entry in for the "Name Kim's China blog" contest. I have so tough work cut out for me trying to pick the winner. The entries have been superb!

I have tons of pictures to post and I am very behind on my blogging, but tomorrow I am going to try and catch up.

Tonight Jonny and I went out for a date night. We finally were able to see "The Revenge of the Sith". I have to say that I don't think that I can handle action movies anymore. I don't know if it is age or what, but my stomach was in knots after the first big scene. After the movie we tried to have a drink at the new bar "The Tilted Kilt". I have been curious to check this place out because I have seen the waitress' uniforms. I have inserted a picture of the waitress from their Las Vegas location below.

Needless to say I thought that these uniforms puts Hooters to shame! We decided that the Kilt wasn't really our speed so we headed to Pesto's new wine bar. It seemed nice until a few of the very intoxicated patrons seemed to have a little homophobia and one woman was putting on a very offensive Asian accent. Very annoying!

I promise, pictures tomorrow!

The visit with the Cullops!

2005-07-16T22:30:00.000-07:00

We had a very nice visit with our old friends the Cullops. They moved to Tennessee 2 years ago and we have missed them. Jonny and I introduced them and they are married and have to cute little girls.

Emma playing in the sand circle.

Maura, Auntie Pam and I are all friends from our days at UNK. We were all Chi Omega sorority sisters and in the same pledge class. While the Cullops were in town we went to Auntie Pam's house for a birthday party for her dog Zoey. Here is a photo of Pam and Zoey opening her birthday gifts.

Lily and Gemma enjoying Zoey's birthday cake.

While Maura lived in Chandler, we both shared our first pregnancies. Gemma is 3 months older than Lily and they spent most of their first year of life hanging out with each other. Above is a picture of Lily, Gemma and Emma jumping on our bed.

More jumping!

Maura's husband Glen worked with Jonny for a few years at Intel. Here is Glen enjoying his vacation hanging out with Lily and Gemma.

Gemma and Lily, best of friends!

We took the Cullops to Lifetime Fitness a couple times and they loved it. They decided to take their Christmas card picture in front of one of the waterfalls in their pool.

Maura with Angus and Gemma.

Me and Maura getting ready for Girls Night Out!

The contest continues...

2005-07-13T23:03:00.000-07:00

I am still taking ideas for my new China blog. Keep them coming! So far PJS, Jo, and Brooke lead. My favorites so far "I am a Capitalist Spy" by PJS (I don't think I will be using it, but I love it!), Chinese Checkers: Chandler to Chengdu by Jo, and "Chengdu: Democratic HQ" by Brooke.

I am hoping to catch up on my daily blog updates by the week-end. I have great pictures to share from the Cullops visit and from our day with Brooke's mom a.k.a. Grandma Chocolate!!!

I am also looking forward to Knitting and Wine tomorrow night at My Wine Cellar in Ahwatukee! Whoopee!!!!

Name my China blog contest!

2005-07-12T15:26:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let my faithful readers know that we are moving to Chengdu, China around the 12th of September. We are going there on an expat assignment for the company my husband works for and will be there for a minimum of a year, but as long as 3 years. We are looking forward to our China adventure and I thought I would start a new blog about our life there. I was trying to think of a name for my new blog and I thought I would have a contest to see who could come up with the most suitable name for my new blog. I haven't decided what the prize will be for the person who wins that contest, but I will assure you it will be something. If you would like to submit your entry please just post the name on the comments section of the blog. I LOVE GETTING COMMENTS!!!! Good Luck and more to come later!

Sick and Tired

2005-07-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to post, but have been so busy with our company I haven't had a chance. I have pictures to share, news to tell, etc. Unfortunately last night I woke up in the middle of the night with a high fever. I have been in bed all day and I am afraid Miss Gemma is a little under the weather too. She threw up last night and then again tonight. I think we both have a little bug. I hope to post in a day or so when we are all rested and are feeling back to normal.

Sun, Fun and the Circus!

2005-07-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

Our visitors arrived from Tennessee on Thursday and we have we have had a wonderful time with them! They are really enjoying the Arizona sun and have been in the pool almost non-stop. We decided to get Angus a floatie, so that we won't have to hold on to him the entire time we were swimming. Here he is kickin' back in his new floatie...

Friday Glen went to work with Jonny to see his old co-worker while Maura, myself, and the kids hung out in the pool. Friday night Maura, Auntie Pam and I headed to book club for a little girls time.

Saturday was circus day! We had tickets to Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey's Circus at America West Area. I would have to say, I don't think I am a circus girl, but the kids (and Jonny) seemed to enjoy it, so that is all that mattered.

Angus and Jonny sporting their hats on their way to the circus.

Gemma, Lily, and Maura at the circus.

Gemma exhausted from her day at the circus.

Jonny and his new hat from the circus!

On Sunday we had some friends over for a little Welcome Back Cullops Party / pre-4th of July Party. We had a little bit of non-traditional food fare. We had Jonny's rotisserie chicken, country-style ribs, and hot links. I also made a potato salad, pasta salad, Jello pretzel salad, guacamole, pineapple salsa, and seafood pizza. It was a great day and the food was fantastic! Below are a few pictures from the party.

My little friend Maren.

Here are a few pictures of the morning after. Once again Jonny Bridwell is on our couch. (I guess it is better than our grass. He is still single ladies!!!)

Mark sporting his usual look on our couch.

In baby news!!!

2005-06-29T13:14:00.000-07:00

I am doing some catch up posting! I have been waiting for pictures, but I can't wait any longer! On Friday early morning our friends Kelly and Brian Stinson and brother Jack welcomed baby Ty William to their family! Congratulations!!!

Ty William

12 hours later my sister-in-law Missy and brother Mark welcomed their first baby, Gabriel Charles to there family. I am so happy for them! Yippeee!!! (I am still waiting for a picture of this little man! Please, please send one soon!

Both babies were due on July 10th and 11th, so the moms were both lucky and the babies both healthy!!!

Donna's having a baby!

2005-06-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

One of my friends in my MOMS Club is having a baby in September. Donna Rugg is pregnant with her 3rd little girl and is very excited about her arrival. Yesterday I attended a celebration for her and her unborn. It was a really neat concept. It was a party called Bouquet of Blessings.

Now for me to plug something like this it has to be pretty neat because it definitely is a Christian concept, but it was such a great idea I thought I would share. The woman who started the Bouquet of Blessing was a really neat person and she explained that her grandmother inspired her to start this business. She makes these beautiful flowers out of clay. When I was first told about these flowers I thought, how pretty could they really be?, but they were gorgeous! We had a little quiz about the flowers along with learning what each flower means, plus a verse from the bible was read that represented each flower. At the end we were to figure out which flower described our personalities. I really couldn't figure out which flower I was most like, but my friend Hallie thought I was a Magnolia, so I became Ms. Magnolia. Magnolia means nobility and perserverence. What do you think, am I Ms. Magnolia??

By the tears that were shed at the shower I am sure Donna had a great time! We are looking forward to the delivery of her baby girl!

A week-end with the Nebraska Grandparents

2005-06-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

Angus and Gemma with their Papa Steve!

This past Thursday my parents were in town from Nebraska. My mom was coming to see Angus for the first time and my dad was coming to see the little man because I don't think my dad can get enough of him. I have to say he is awfully cute! Unfortunately my dad caught a cold right before he arrived and felt pretty miserable the whole time he was here, but he persevered and rolled up the sleeves and kept the kids entertained for 4 days solid. My mom and I were MIA most of the week-end shopping for things for the kids. You can totally tell that my Mom is the grandmother of 4 boys, she went crazy buying skirts and dresses for Miss Gemma!

On Saturday night we took my parents to the Sizzling 7's rugby tournament in Mesa. It was a perfect evening and they got a great education on rugby. If I had a dime for every time my mother made a noise and flinched as a man was pummeled on the field I would be a rich woman!

On Sunday before my parents left we took some family pictures in our backyard.

It was nice to see my parents, but I think the best part of the whole week-end was seeing my parents with our kids! You can tell they are all in love with each other!

Quick Update

2005-06-22T22:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much time for blogging lately. I am really missing reading everyone's blogs more thoroughly and adding comments. We have been gone the last 2 week-ends and now I am heading to the airport to pick up my parents who are flying in from Nebraska.

Last night we had a scary one, Angus had a fever over 103.5. We called the nurse twice and the second time they sent us to the ER. Poor little man has a urinary tract infection. He was poked and prodded some many time it was sad. I am glad I was the one to take him to the ER because I don't think my poor husband could have handled all of the test. (He is known to get a little faint.) After all of his horrible shots I think our man is on the mend. Whew! It is really stressful to be a parent especially when you little one is sick.

Anyway, this week-end we should have loads more pictures with the Grandparents + we will be going to the Sizzling 7's rugby tournament this week-end.

I've been tagged

2005-06-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

1. Total number of books I own?

I actually own around 300 books. That includes my books, Jonny's books and the kids books. Most of the books are my kids books. That is because I am not the type of person to re-read books, so I usually give them away.

2. The last book I bought?

The Time Traveler's Wife by Anita Niffenegger

3. The last book I read?
Discipline, The Brazelton Way by Dr. T Berry Brazelton and Dr. Joshua Sparrow

4. Five books that mean a lot to me?

Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser - Because it made me stop eating fast food

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini - Because it was so moving.

The Horse Whisperer by Nicholas Evans - Because it was the only romance novel I ever liked.

Discipline, The Brazelton Way by Dr. T Berry Brazelton and Dr. Joshua Sparrow - Because it is helping me become a more patience parent and a better parent.

Stitch 'n Bitch Nation by Debbie Stoller - Because my little article is in there.

I am tagging Phoenix Knitter, Miz Peg, SquareSlant, Mac Attack, and JenKnits. Please answer the above questions and post them on your blog!

Graduation in Carlsbad

2005-06-20T13:32:00.000-07:00

Gemma and Angus ready for their road trip!

On Thursday evening we headed to Carlsbad, CA for my cousin Steven's high school graduation. We were looking forward to seeing my Uncle, Aunt, cousins and Grandpa!

Angus and Jonny at graduation.

Over 600 kids graduation from La Costa High School in Carlsbad.

Uncle Rich, Aunt Ellen, Steven and Evan. 3 more years Evan!

Steven and Me

Steven and Grandpa

Gemma and Ellen's mom Clare

Grandpa George with his great grandkids Gemma and Angus.

Gemma playing Evan's drums. She is a future Meg White!

We had a great visit with the family. We spent the Saturday hanging out an my Aunt and Uncle's house. We also ate at my very favorite restaurant El Special Norte in Leucadia. They have the best Chicken Soup and tostadas!!!

I was also lucky enough to visit the LYS in Encinitas called The Black Sheep. I bought a couple of balls of Crystal Palace Dragonfly to make a purse for Gemma. They had a great selection of yarn! Tons and tons of Noro for all you fans and the Manos selection was to die for! I highly recommend a trip to this shop if you are trying to beat the heat this summer.

On a knitting note I was able to get tons of knitting done this weekend while we were driving. Below is the test knit sweater I am doing for SWTC. It is for a 6 year old girl and is in bamboo.

The pattern is purl 5, knit 1. I like working with the bamboo, but it is a bit hard for my liking.

Here is the baby blanket for my sister-in-law who is due in July.

Gemma watching a movie on her way back from Carlsbad.

Minnesota visitor

2005-06-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

Last night Auntie Pam's Daddy (as Gemma calls him) and Auntie Pam came over for dessert. Jerry and his wife Harriet have a place in Sun Lakes where they started snow birding a couple of years ago. We try and get together with them as much as possible and even spent Christmas with them the last two years. We are very fond of them and they make us feel like part of their family. Jerry came over to hear all about our possibilities of moving to China this fall. He also treated Gemma to some new princess books!

Tonight I am headed to Coffee Rush to get some knitting in. I am really on a role with my blanket and test knit for SWTC. I wanted to go to Mama Javas on Wednesday, but it is just too much since we are leaving for Carlsbad on Thursday.

Rocky Point Week-end

2005-06-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

On Friday afternoon we packed up the van and headed on our first road trip to Rocky Point, Mexico. We went with our friends Shannon, Hallie and their two boys Carson (3 on Thursday) and Harrison (10 months). Hallie's parents have a condo on Sandy Beach and here is a view from the patio.

Friday night we arrived in Rocky Point just in time for the kids to hit the swimming pool and check out the beach. Hallie and I went for a drive to pick up dinner at a little chicken restaurant in town. We had a fabulous dinner of the most amazing chicken I have ever had, hot salsa, fresh homemade tortillas, shredded cabbage, and limes. We were able to get the kiddos to bed and then have a nice evening on the patio drinking adult beverages and talking about a wide range of topics like college, politics, etc.

In the morning we woke up and Jonny made us his famous Ulster Fry breakfast. If you have not had this Irish delight please ask Jonny to make it for you sometime. It is a must have! We got everyone ready and headed down to the beach. The water was suprisingly warm and the sand was very course. You could actually see that the sand was made up of broken up seashells.

After our beach excursion we headed back up to the pool. Here is Gemma posing in front of one of the pools at the resort.

Me, Angus, Gemma, Hallie, and Harrison basking in the sun. I am having a very yummy and much needed tropical drink.

After we baked in the sun for a few hours Hallie and I headed to the spa for massages and a pedicure. I generally do not get massages because I am not able to relax, but I think the combination of the sea air and warm ocean water helped me wind down. After our trip to the spa we headed down to the fish market for some fresh seafood. We bought some small and large shrimp, oysters, and huge scallops for dinner.

Carson and Gemma by the fish market.

Our family by the fish market.

On Sunday we got up and Shannon made breakfast. We headed down to the beach again and the water was even warmer. It was just a beautiful day. I have to say I really relaxed and enjoyed myself at the beach.

Angus paddling in the water.

Gemma, Angus, and me sitting on the beach.

Gemma striking a pose!

Daddy and Angus taking a stroll on the beach.

Angus and Mommy

Jonny, Angus, Shannon and Harrison

Shannon and Jonny taking a banana boat ride.

Hallie and Harrison

Gemma sacked out on the way home from Rocky Point. Do you think she wore herself out?

On the knitting front I started to knit a baby blanket for my sister-in-law. It is turning out beautifully! I got the idea from my friend Donna R. who is making her grandmother a shawl in the same pattern. I also had a chance to work on my test knit for Southwest Trading Company. I will take pictures of my projects soon!

Up next a trip to Carlsbad, CA to my cousin's high school graduation and to see the family. I should have some more great pics of the kids!

More after school drama...

2005-06-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

After Tuesday's library incident I made one decision, Gemma still needs a nap. I thought Gemma had out grown her nap. 5 days in a row prior to trying no naps it was taking her at least 2 hours to fall asleep. So yesterday I thought I was so smart and I would take Gemma and Angus to the gym after Gemma got out of school and then have her take her nap around 2:30 pm (2 hours after she normally takes a nap.).

I dropped the kids off at the child care and went upstairs to start my work-out. After about 10 minutes of abs I was paged by the child care. I thought it was just Angus with a monstrous diaper for me to change, but unfortunately not. Gemma went to see Angus in the infant area and decided to take bite Angus on his hand. I didn't know quite how to react. I know that she shouldn't bite Angus, but I am sure that she was just copying her Mommy and Daddy as we are always sticking Angus' hands and feet in our mouth pretending to eat him up. I asked Gemma what had happened and she told me that she bit Angus. I went to the locker room to call Jonny to consult on what I should do, but he wasn't answering. I thought about it for a minute and decide to remove Gemma from the situation. I went back in the child care and she was not happy that we were leaving. I told her that she needed to calm herself down. Luckily she was able to calm herself much quicker than our Tuesday drama.

We went home and she went right down for her nap. After her nap we had plans to have the Barkats over for dinner. Jill, Peyton, and Landon came over for a swim while we waited for the husbands to return from work. We had such a great time! We had rotisserie chicken and rump roast, grilled veggies, garlic new potatoes, Jill's scrummy spinach salad and the most delicious caramel brownies.

Today went much better. I took Gemma to school, went to the gym, picked Gemma up and took her immediately home for her nap. She really needed it and slept almost 3 hours. After she woke up Auntie Pam came over for a swim. All and all a much better day for Gemma!

Tomorrow we are leaving for Rocky Point with our friends Shannon, Hallie, Carson and Harrison. We are really looking forward to it as we haven't ever been to there!

She's off the school, all by herself!

2005-06-08T06:21:00.000-07:00

Gemma has been wanting to go to school 'All by herself' ever since she started her Mommy and Me preschool last September, so I was very excited to hear that her preschool offered a summer program for kids 3 and up as long as they were potty trained. Gemma went on her first adventure in school by herself and it was a very successful day. I dropped her off and she was just beside herself with excitement. She was very happy to wear her new backpack that her Daddy bought her in China and have her own lunch box. I would be lying if I said I was sad, but my feelings were more like confident that Gemma would do fine without me and that I was comfortable enough to trust the school with my child's life.

Angus and Gemma before school.

While Gemma was at school Angus and I headed for the gym. I had a nice work-out and Angus had a cry free morning in the child care. When I picked Angus up, I felt like something was missing. We went out to he van and I loaded him up and that is when I felt a little lonely without Miss Gemma around. Even Angus wasn't enjoying the ride in the van as much, he is so used to his sister smiling at him and entertaining him.

Another snap of Gemma, for the Grandparents!

We picked Gemma up from school and she was so excited to see us and tell us about her day. She had a great time and Mrs. Pohlit said she did great.

On another note, Gemma has seemed to outgrow her naps. The past 5 days we have struggled to get her to go down for her afternoon nap. It usually takes her 2 hours to settle down. I have tried a nap at noon, a nap at 1, 2, and 3, but every time she doesn't seem to want to sleep for almost 2 hours after we first put her down. Jonny and I agreed, much to my disappointment, that she had outgrown her naps. So yesterday, (yes, call me stupid because I thought I would try this on her first day of school 'all by herself'!) I thought I would give the no nap thing a try. Big mistake!!! I took the kids to Gap to pick up a t-shirt and they both seemed to be fine. Then it was off the the library to pick up my book that was on hold. Gemma and I had a talk before she went in discussing the importance of her listened to me while we were in the library. We got in the library and I picked up my book and we headed over to the kids section. Gemma wanted to pick out a DVD and I wasn't opposed, although I almost never let her watch TV. As we were trying to find a DVD a nice man were admiring the kids saying how cute they were. There were no DVD's in the library, I think because they were all checked out due to school being out for the summer. There were tons of videos, but we do not own a vcr anymore, so I explained to Gemma that we couldn't check them out because we didn't have the player. Gemma seemed to understand and then that 'nice' man came up to her and handed her a Minnie and Mickey Mouse video. She was sure she was going to get it! She even ran away from me with the video in tow. When I caught up to her she started screaming, hitting, kicking and whaling that she wanted the video. I told her that she didn't listen and we had to leave the library. She walked with me to the front of the library crying away and then ran away again screaming she wanted to get her books, I chased her down again and she wailed some more. I quickly checked out my book and we were off.

I have to say that maybe a week ago that sight would have freaked me out. I have been doing some reading on child discipline and I really think I handled the situation quite well. The books I am reading are by Dr. T. Berry Brazelton and I am loving them. They are helping me become a calmer more empathetic parent. It is also teaching me to control my emotions. We will see how this method works. So far, so good. Even though we definitely had drama yesterday, I do believe Gemma and I are learning to self-discipline ourselves.

My gorgeous little man!

Last night I headed to Changing Hands for knitting. We had a nice little group and I almost finished baby Aidan's baby blanket, but ran out of yarn!!! I need about 3 feet of yarn to finish the blanket. What a bummer!

A day of no plans

2005-06-04T21:18:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I am a scheduleholic. I love to make plans, organize events/groups, and in general have a very full social calendar. When I looked at my calendar this week-end to see nothing planned, I didn't know what to do with myself. The rest of our summer looks crazy! We are going to Rocky Point, heading to Carlsbad, my parents are coming from Nebraska, our friends our coming from Tennessee, me and the kids are heading to Nebraska, and then finally we head to N. Ireland for a month for an even crazier itinerary. This all in the space of less than 3 months!

Having no plans was much needed this week-end. We had such a casual day, I really appreciated it. We headed to the gym for a work-out (Jonny and I are obsessed with dropping some lbs. before his college roommate's wedding this summer!) and lunch. While the kids napped Jonny and I worked on plans for our trip to N. Ireland and Scotland. We had dinner and ended the evening with a trip to Desert Breeze Park for a ride on the train and carousel. It was a nice, much needed planless day!

Fender Bender

2005-06-03T20:43:00.000-07:00

Today was my free day. We had no playdates and I was dropping off the kids with Ann's house for a couple hours. I was planning on running errands, but Jen and Brooke so graciously rescheduled their lunch plans and met me at 98 South in downtown Chandler. We had a lovely lunch and they had a great area for us to knit.

I had to leave a little early to pick up the kids and then I was off to pick up Pam J. to take her to the airport. She was headed to Minneapolis to see her parents and attend her nephew's graduation. On our way home from the airport we were driving down the 202 minding our own business when the traffic started to back up and I was braking and BAM!!! We were rear ended by a older man in a Cadillac. Thank goodness the kids weren't hurt. (The van has a dent in the trunk and the bumper is all scratched up, so we will have to take it in next week to see about the damage.) We moved over into area between an on ramp and the freeway and he inspected the cars. I didn't feel comfortable getting out of the car, so he wrote down his insurance information and said he wanted to go. I said that would be ok, but I wanted to look at his insurance card. I noticed that his card expired on May 21st. Luckily DPS showed up and sighted him for driving too closely and no current insurance card.

We have nothing planned for the week-end except going to the gym. It should be a relaxing week-end as we are going to be very busy for the next few months!

Hippity Hop to the Kangaroo Shop!

2005-06-02T08:22:00.000-07:00

Last night my knitting group met at Red Kangaroo Wines in Chandler. I would have to say it was our most successful meeting ever! Everyone was so happy to meet there and really seemed to enjoy the easy access to wine. Glasses of wine were 1/2 price and there were no corking charges on a bottle. Injy, one of the owners of Red Kangaroo, ran around the room all night making sure we were happy and our glasses were full. She was a total trooper, I told her we would be out of the shop by 8:30 pm, but we didn't leave until 9:30 pm! Everyone has requested meeting here again, so for those of you that missed it we will be meeting there again in July.

Jen, Marie, Becky, Michelle, and Barbara enjoying a little knitting and wine.

Sarah brought a couple new knitters with her, one of them my friend Marne (on the high chair). Michelle the photographer in the back!

Sarah and Martha, who we haven't seen in a long, long time. I guess wine brings out the best of us!

Nick, Melanie, and Pam having a glass and shopping for bottles!

Chris (Michelle's husband) and Damon (Marie's husband) picking up their ladies!

Note: Pam and Hallie some how the picture I took of you too was eaten by my computer! It was really good and I wanted to post it!

Good Housekeeping called!

2005-06-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago Good Housekeeping called and wanted to interview me about the Stitch 'n Bitch AZ group. They are writing an article on stay-at-home Moms that do other things besides be a mom. There fact checker called today and a quote from me and a small photo of me should appear in the September issue. Whoopee!!! I bet many of you wouldn't have guessed that I would ever be in Good Housekeeping! I sure wouldn't have!

A long week-end in review...

2005-05-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

It was kind of nice, we didn't have too much on our schedule for the week-end, so I thought "We're going to get so much done around the house!". Why is it that when you have spare time to get things done you seem to procrastinate and not get those things done?

Saturday morning we got up and got ready for Jack's baptism. I have to say I haven't had so much fun at a baptism ever! Maybe it was the yummy bloody marys or the fabulous food! I have to get the recipe for that apple tart! There were quite a few knitters and bloggers on hand. Melanie, Pam, Parley, and Potusol were all on hand. It was quite funny because I hadn't met Potusol in person and I asked Brooke if that was Potusol sitting next to Parley and I was pleased to put a face to a blog.

Brooke and Jack at the church.

Sunday we had a few of the rugby boys + Pam L., Melanie, and Pam J. over for swimming and a few beers. Jonny's teammate Dilly showed up at our doorstep at noon, about 4 hours early, so we made him into do a vacuum the playroom, go grocery shopping with me and...

take care of Angus for a while. He's a natural!

Andy and Jonny Bridwell with Angus. Ladies, these boys are still single!

Gemma going for a dip in the hot tub!

Auntie Pam and Gemma!

On Sunday we went over to our neighbors house for a BBQ. They have a diving pool and Gemma had the time of her life jumping of the diving board about 100 times!

I give this one a 10!

Gemma's swimming is really coming along. She hasn't been taking lessons since March, but I almost think she has improved. Here she is doing her "airplane".

The other cool thing about hanging out with our neighbors was that they have a friend from Scotland that they wanted Jonny to meet. It was great to see Jonny talking to this guy, although sometimes it was hard to understand what they were saying. They both had so much in common, they were both Rangers and Liverpool fans, they are in the same line of work and they also have the same passion of eventually having a home back in the UK and a place in the US.

Margaritaville

2005-05-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

I had a fantastic day yesterday. One that all stay-at-home moms deserve from time to time. My wonderful neighbor Ann and I have been taking turns once a week watching each other's children and it is working out fabulous!!! (I am going to be so sad when they leave mid-June for a month to get out of the heat!) Yesterday morning I dropped the kids off and went to knitting at Coffee Rush for a couple hours and did about an hour of retail therapy. It was so relaxing and I really feel I was doing something good for myself as well as my kids.

Last night I also decided that I needed a night out with my good friend Pam. I had been begging her to take me to Kona Grill from margaritas since I gave birth to Angus. Finally she gave in and we went for a few much needed drinks. I would have to say that I usually like my margaritas on the rocks with salt on the rim, but Kona Grill has the BEST blended margarita I have ever tasted. I got the strawberry and it is so finely blended you can't even feel the ice particles on your tongue. Unfortunately because they taste so good, they go down way too easy and I had to pace myself. We don't have any good stories from last night, but we did have a good time.

An ode to my favorite drink...Margaritas!!!

MARGARITAVILLE by Jimmy Buffett

Nibblin' on sponge cake,watchin' the sun bake;
All of those tourists covered with oil.
Strummin' my six string on my front porch swing.
Smell those shrimp--They're beginnin' to boil.

Wasted away again in Margaritaville,
Searchin' for my lost shaker of salt.
Some people claim that there's a woman to blame,
But I know it's nobody's fault.

Don't know the reason,
Stayed here all season
With nothing to show but this brand new tattoo.
But it's a real beauty,
A Mexican cutie,
how it got here I haven't a clue.

Wasted away again in Margaritaville,
Searchin' for my lost shaker of salt.
Some people claim that there's a woman to blame,
Now I think,-- hell it could be my fault.

I blew out my flip flop,
Stepped on a pop top;
Cut my heel, had to cruise on back home.
But there's booze in the blender,
And soon it will render
That frozen concoction that helps me hang on.

Wasted away again in Margaritaville
Searchin' for my lost shaker of salt.
Some people claim that there's a woman to blame,
But I know, it's my own damn fault.
Yes, and some people claim that there's a woman to blame,
And I know it's my own damn fault.

I should be stress-free for a while!

Tomorrow we are off to Jack's baptism and to a Memorial Day party. I hope everyone has a safe, stress-free, healthy (for all you sickos out there!), and fun Memorial Day week-end!

Bo Bice was robbed!!!

2005-05-25T21:07:00.000-07:00

I was so upset by the result of American Idol this evening. Bo Bice, who in my opinion had the most incredible voice in the history of American Idol, lost to Carrie Underwood. Deep down I knew America would go for the more wholesome girl with beautiful blonde hair, but I had hoped that the man with the long hair and cool personality would pull through in the end. I do think Carrie was the best of the females on AI4, but I only thought she was good at one genre, Country music. I do have an appreciation of Country music and I can even kick up my heels and do a little country swingin', but should the next American Idol be a Country singer? I guess that question was answered tonight. On the bright side they both get a record deal (plus brand new Mustang convertibles!) and I will definitely be first in line to buy Bo Bice's debut album.

I would love to hear you opinion on the new American Idol. Do you think Carrie deserved it or was Bo you favorite too?

I have been tagged...

2005-05-24T12:34:00.000-07:00

My friend Julie, from Mac Attack has tagged me and asked me to write a list of 10 things I have never done, so here it goes....

10. I have never been to New York City, Washington D.C. or Chicago. (I do plan on visiting them one day with the kiddos.)
9. I have never met my biological father nor do I want to.
8. I have never been to the opera.
7. I have never watched "Desperate Housewives".
6. I have never had a bikini wax.
5. I have never been able to grow out my fingernails. (I am a horrible nail biter!)
4. I have never wanted to sky dive, hang glide, or anything else that would have me falling or floating in the sky.
3. I have never been a size 2 or a size 12 for that matter. (I am happy to say that I am closer to a size 2 than I am to a size 12.)
2. I have never done cocaine, heroin, mushrooms, or meth and I will never do them.
1. I have never seen "Ghostbusters"! (I don't really want to see Ghostbusters, but everyone cannot believe I haven't seen it! Am I missing something???)

I am now going to tag 3 friends: Pam, Melanie, and Eva.

I also have to mention that Gemma, Angus and I met our friends Marne, Reece and Elizabeth and Katherine, Lincoln, and Nolan at Espee Park in Chandler for a playdate. If you haven't been to Espee Park you are missing out. It is a great park with a wonderful splash pad for the kids to play. It is located on Knox and Arizona Ave. for you AZ residents. Take your kids there and enjoy!

Tonight I had the wonderful experience of being behind the counter at Cold Stone Creamery for our MOMS Club fundraiser. I have to say it was a ton of fun and I got a great bicep work-out scooping and mixing ice cream. I believe a career at Cold Stone would involve a person who has much self control because I kept wanting to lick my fingers! I finished off the night making myself a Strawberry Cheesecake ice cream with extra strawberries!

Tomorrow we are checking out a new splash pad in Chandler. I will report on it tomorrow.

Must See Now on DVD...

2005-05-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention that Sunday night Jonny and I watched the movie "Phantom of the Opera" and I have to say it was fabulous! I highly recommend it and I have to see the actual opera because I couldn't believe how beautiful the music was. Maybe I will get to see it over our vacation in August, hint, hint.

A Week-End in Review

2005-05-23T13:21:00.000-07:00

Gemma painting at school.

Friday started with Gemma's last day of Mommy and Me preschool. Although I thought her experience was important, I was so happy to see it end. I had been bringing Angus with us for half the year and it is very challenging to wear a 20lb baby for 2 hours. She had a fun day as they had water on the playground for the kids to play in and popsicles for snacks. Gemma will have 3 weeks off before she returns to the summer program which lasts 4 weeks in June every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9-12:30pm.

Gemma playing in the sprinkler at school.

Friday night I hosted Book Club at my house. We had a great turn out! There were about 12 of us and a couple new faces. I had chosen the book "The Time Traveler's Wife" by Audrey Niffenegger. I liked the book, but was hoping for a different ending. We discussed the book a little, but everyone was more interested in drinking wine and my friend's love life.

For the past 3 book clubs we have been listening to my friend's love life woes and we have all been her therapist. She had been dating a younger man (by 11 years) for about a year and had started to seeing another man at the same time. She was told at the last meeting to make a decision by the next book club and sure enough they have split up. I was very happy for her and her decision and look forward to new adventures in her love life!

Saturday morning I hosted coffee klatch at my house. We had a nice time visiting and everyone brought their kids. Later that afternoon we brought the kids to the gym because I was in much need of a work-out and Jonny wanted to take Gemma swimming. After the gym we took Gemma to the birthday party of one of her playgroup friends at the Little Gym. I was pretty impressed with the place that had all gymnastic equipment.

Sunday Pam J. and Kelly S. and I had breakfast with an old friend Jen W. Jen and her husband Pat are getting ready to move back to Illinois. We are very sad to see her go and I don't think she is looking forward to it either. Some people just love the AZ and Jen is one of those people. Unfortunately her hubby hasn't enjoyed AZ as much and so they have made the decision to move closer to their families. We wish them both the best of luck and we will miss them!

Sunday afternoon we had Marion, husband Daniel, and 3 boys over for swimming and a BBQ. We had a nice evening and Jonny made his rotisserie chicken again and it was fantastic!

Water safety

2005-05-19T14:33:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had guest speakers at our MOMS Club monthly social. They were from SwimKids, where Gemma used to take her swimming lessons and they were there to discuss water safety. It was very informative and I thought it was definitely something to pass along to others especially those with small children.

DROWNING PREVENTION TIPS
Swimming pools should always be happy places. Unfortunately, each year thousands of American families confront water related tragedies. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission conducted hearings in July 2004 in Florida and Arizona on this national dilemma. Swimkids USA and other experts in all areas of pool safety testified and participated in a panel discussion in an effort to develop guidelines for pool barriers, swim instruction and early response. After reviewing a great deal of data on drowning and early childhood behaviors the CPSC adopted specific safety recommendations. It was purported, no one single safety
intervention is child proof, but the parent needs to provide layers of protection for a child who strays from supervision. Barriers such as fences, alarms, covers and swim instruction give parents additional time to locate a child before the unexpected becomes a terrible reality.
Here are some of their recommendations:

Barriers are not child proof, but they provide layers of protection for a child
who strays from supervision.
Barriers give parents additional time to locate a child before the unexpected
becomes a reality.

FENCES & GATES
Install a fence or wall completely around the pool. If house is part of the
barrier, the doors leading from the house to the pool should be protected
with an alarm.
The fence or wall should be at least 4 feet high. Vertical fence slates should
be less than 4 inches apart.
Fence gates should be self-closing and self-latching. The latch should be well
out of a childs reach.

DOOR ALARMS
If the house forms one side of the barrier then doors leading from the house
to the pool should be protected with alarms that produce an audible sound
when a door is unexpectedly opened.

SAFETY COVERS
A safety cover should withstand the weight of two adults and a child to allow
a rescue should an individual fall onto the cover. A way should be provided
for quick removal of water from a solid cover.

ABOVE-GROUND POOLS
Steps and ladders leading from the ground to the pool should be secured and
locked or removed when not in use.

Revisions to my blog and my face????

2005-05-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to say I finally took the time to make my blog look a little more attractive. I have changed the template, added a new link and deleted some old ones, added "Blogs I Read" and finally added the stat counter. A lot of blogger friends of mine have added this stat counter so you can see who is looking at your blog. I am really looking forward to seeing who is reading my blog. I have already gotten hits from Portugal and Mexico.

Speaking of making things more attractive. Recently it has come to my attention that I may need to start wearing a little make up. It wasn't just one comment, but a few comments over the past year that has made me take notice. I HONESTLY want to know your opinion on this. I have not been one to wear make-up. I guess you could even go as far as to say I know very little about applying make-up. Please let me know what you think. Do I need a little blush or do I need eye make-up or is a whole face lift in order (jk)? I won't know if you don't tell me.

Rugby boys night in

2005-05-17T21:24:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon we went to a graduation party for our friend Joe Pemberton who just completed his MBA from ASU. Joe had a little party at his house and a few of our friends loaded up the kids and went to help Joe celebrate. It was a nice day and the kids had a great time. While we were there Jonny received a phone call from one of our rugby friends Johnny Bridwell, who you have seen on my blog on previous post.

Angus and Gemma in a Costco cart

Johnny is a great kid and a great catch for a young lady who would be willing to tame this boy. He is going to school to become an Electrician, he teaches Sunday School, and best of all he plays rugby well. Any takers? Johnny is originally from the west valley where his parents and siblings still live, Johnny on the other hand walks to the beat of a different drum, he lives in his Toyota truck. Not because he is unemployed or has no money, just because he can. Last night, Johnny, his brother Andy, Dilly and (Aussie) Mark came over to keep Jonny company while I took Gemma over to watch my neighbors kids.

Of course at 11:30 pm when I returned from the neighbors the boys were on the patio still drinking. I sat down and continued to be entertained until 2 am!

Johnny decided that tonight he wouldn't sleep in his truck, but instead he would sleep in our grass.

WELCOME BABY AIDAN!!!

2005-05-17T09:31:00.000-07:00

Baby Aidan

First of all I am a horrible sister. With all the anniversary and birthday stuff going on at our place, I forgot to mention that my sister Becky had a healthly baby boy on May 6th (our 10th wedding anniversary)!!! We are very excited for Becky, her husband, Jared, and son Isaac! We are hoping to make a trip sometime in July to see Aidan, and hopefully my brother Mark's new baby boy that should be born in early July.

Big brother Isaac with baby Aidan.

RIP Uncle Curt

2005-05-15T14:34:00.000-07:00

My dad's oldest brother Curtis, 66, past away Thursday. He lived in Fairmont, Minnesota with his wife. He is survived by his mother (my grandmother) Rosella, 2 brothers (my dad and Uncle Alan), 6 children, and 12 and grandchildren.

I know this is a real tough time for my Aunt Jerry, Grandma, Dad, Uncle Alan and cousins. I just want you all to know that we are thinking of you hear in Arizona.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DADDY!!!

2005-05-11T12:30:00.000-07:00

The family out for Jonny's birthday dinner.

We have had a whirlwind last few days! We spent our anniversary night out at Fleming's and spent Mother's Day at the Zoo and Soul in the Hole. We really had a nice week-end of celebrating.

Last night we spent the Jonny's birthday at Tsunami. It is a great little Japanese restaurant with fabulous sushi! Jonny ate more sushi than I have ever seen him eat while Gemma and I enjoyed the teppan table entertainment. For Jonny's birthday the kids got Jonny an Ireland Rugby t-shirt while I bought him a scrum cap. What is a scrum cap you ask? See Angus sporting his daddy's cap.

The future of Camelback Rugby.

HAPPY 10TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY TO US!

2005-05-06T12:41:00.000-07:00

OK, here is our wedding photograph! Yes! Jonny did have hair at one time!

Today is Jonny and my 10th Wedding Anniversary! I received a beautiful card from my beloved this morning, which brought tears to my eyes! I hope that everyone can experience the kind of love that I have been able to experience with Jonny.

Schools, Schooling, etc.

2005-05-06T12:08:00.000-07:00

I think I am starting to blog like my good friend Brooke . I believe I may becoming a controversial blogger. I mentioned on my blog yesterday about a conversation that went on at the baby shower Wednesday night about public school vs. Private school. I just want everyone to know, I wasn't offended or upset by the conversation. I was just bothered that I couldn't give my real opinion because I could see that the conversation would have gotten heated and would have ruined the baby shower. That is why I put my opinion down on my blog, to get it off my chest.

I also got a question from my dear friend Maura in TN asking "What do you think of home schooling?" This is a question that I have been asked frequently in my last few years. I have been asked by family, who home school their kids, a woman in our knitting group, who also home schooled her kids, and now my friend Maura. What do you think of home schooling????? Here is my answer. I think that it just depends on the child. I personally do not think it would be a good thing for Gemma and Angus. I am an ultra-social person and I can tell from Gemma's personality she is too. She loves people and needs to be surrounded by them frequently. If I home schooled I think I would be taking her away from that. I know there are home school groups in which you interact with other home schooled kids, but to me it is just not the same. I also want my children to be able to function in society. I am not saying that home schooled children cannot, I just think it might be more difficult for home schooled children to do so. As I said in my previous post, how well a child does in public or private school is really up to the parent. I think home schooling might just be a little too much parent. The other reason I don't like the concept of home schooling is because I see how curriculums have grown over the years and the opportunities that children have these days at public school are tremendous. I don't think that children would have the same opportunities at being home schooled. So Maura, those are my reasons.

Babies, babies, babies!

2005-05-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

Annette H., Tracy, Jill and me.

The attendees!

Last night Annette H. and Tracy W. (who is an avid reader of berly's blog) threw a shower for Tracy's sister Jill. It was at the pottery place Mind Over Splatter in downtown Chandler. The shower was a surprise and Jill was definitely surprised. We were able to bring in food, cake, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks for the pregos.

The cake by In Pockets.

Jill with her Mom Kathy from Oregon.

Jill with our friend Kelly who is due 5 days before Jill.

I have to say I had a wonderful time making a switch plate for Gemma's bedroom and I definitely would like to go again sometime soon.

I do have to comment on one of the conversations last night. I have strong feelings about something that was said last night, but I didn't really want to get into at a baby shower. A few people started talking about private school vs. public school. This has been something that I have been thinking about since Gemma was born. I believe both schools have their benefits. I also believe that I will be sending my children to public school. The reason that we are going to do this is that we believe it isn't the teachers and schools sole responsibility to educate our children. I believe that it is our responsibility. I look back at the schooling that I received in elementary and high school and yes, it could have been better, but my parents could have been more involved with my education and I could have been more interested. It wasn't until I moved to Minneapolis did I take interested in other things besides TV and sports. I because more politically aware + my interest in music intensified. It definitely helps to be in a larger city where there are more opportunities both academically and culturally. Being married to Jonny has also opened a whole new world to me, literally. He has transformed me into a curious person about things such as history, geography (although I was always pretty good at that), politics, and general awareness of international cultures and to respect them. I am no longer scared to ask questions and I think this has made me a more educated person. We will definitely try our 'being involved' method with our kids and the public school in our city and see how it goes. No offense to the private school friends I have out there. Different schools work for different families.

Tonight I have card club, which will be a Cinco de Mayo party. I have had this feeling of wanting to stay home lately, so I am not sure if I will make it or not.

Hurray!!! Daddy's Home!

2005-05-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

I have not been posting lately because I have been busy tending to my very tired husband. We are all over the moon to have him home! It was such a long 3 weeks, but it has really done wonders to our relationship. He has been very tired, but so attentive to me and the kids. He even keeps complimenting me on how beautiful I am! (blush, blush) He says that he had a lot of time to reflect while he was gone and he says that he takes me for granted. I hope everyone will be as fortunate as me to meet someone as wonderful as my Jonny. I think another reason that Jonny is getting so gushy with me is that on Friday we will be celebration our 10th wedding anniversary. I have been so fortunate to be married to him for 10 wonderful years. I have to say that marriage is hard work, but oh so worth it when you have a wonderful partner. We are leaving the kids with Aunt Nancy and Uncle Robert and having romantic dinner at Fleming's . I can't wait!

Today Gemma had her playdate with Nicholas and Holly. Ann and I have decided to trade off once a week having playdates with the kids so we can get errands done. It is really working out well. Tomorrow I have some things to get done for a very special occasion, (can you guess what that is? I bet you can't.) so Ann is watchin Angus and Gemma for a few hours.

We are going to the gym in a little while and tonight I am going to knitting. I look forward to seeing my fellow knitters this week without my kids! Yeah!

A refreshing week

2005-04-29T22:42:00.000-07:00

Gemma and Angus lounging on the couch.

I have to say that week ended on a positive note. My sister Jenny was visiting from Nebraska. She is 4 months pregnant and expecting a little girl in September. Her visit started out rocky due to the fact that she is smoking while pregnant. I have never been shy about telling anyone in my family how I feel about things they do wrong. This was not exception. I tried to educate my sister and my parents about what she could possibly be doing to her baby as I really don't think they know how serious this is, but I think my education was extremely misunderstood. I was accused of 'hurting my sister's feelings'. I know that I usually say what is on my mind no matter whose feelings I hurt, but that was not my intention in this case. I simply want her to realize what she is doing to her baby and to quit smoking. Unfortunately I think I may have made it worse. I felt that she would respect me educating her because I myself smoked for 10 years. Yep, ex-smokers are the worst! Especially those who quit cold turkey! Well, I still hope that she quits smoking by the time the baby comes. I think there is still hope!

After our initial controversy, Jenny really rolled up her sleeves and helped me get things done around the house. She even mopped my floors! I was able to have assistance with the kids during grocery shopping, I went to the gym by myself, I went to the post office by myself, I went to knit at Lux Coffeebar, I visited my friend Liz and her new baby, etc. Things I used to take for granted.

Aunt Jenny and Angus

Tomorrow Jonny returns home! We are so excited to see him! I hope the night and day goes fast! He is so excited to see the kids!

Aunt Jenny's Here!

2005-04-24T21:59:00.000-07:00

I had to take a break from blogging because frankly the 100 things about me list took alot of energy.

We had a nice week-end and were very excited to have Aunt Jenny visiting from Nebraska.

Friday night we had a couple of Jonny's rugby team friends come over and make dinner. I actually ended up making the dinner and helping them try and make their costumes for an upcoming rugby tournament.

Gemma got all beautiful for them with her Cinderella costume.

Johnny Hanson also was a big help with Angus. He carried him the entire night and even got him to sleep. He will make a great dad someday! So any of you single girls looking for a man who likes rugby and kids between the ages 20 - 25, please let me know and I can hook you up.

We were also very fortunate to speak to Jonny throughout the week-end. He left China on Friday for Hong Kong. He had a great time doing more shopping and haggling over prices. He has already arrived in Malaysia and we hope to give you all an update of his adventures in Asia.

Jonny in front of the original Shanghai Tang in Shanghai.

Jonny's in front of Hu's Garden in Hong Kong.

Aunt Jenny arrived on Saturday from Nebraska. We were very happy to see her and her bump. (She is 4 months pregnant!) It is so nice to have help around here. I have just been asking her to do things and she does them without complaint. I guess that is the difference between a sister and a husband. (No offense honey!)

Aunt Jenny with Angus.

Sunday we went to the Dominic's birthday party who is a friend of Gemma's from her playgroup. We had a great time the food was delicious and the company was great! Jenny came along to see how crazy it will be once she becomes a mother.

Gemma and the pinata.

Gemma being her cute self! Daddy, I bet you can't wait to see this face!

Angus and Jenny taking a break from the festivities.

Gemma and the birthday boy's brother Aiden enjoying their cake!

The last 10 things about me!

2005-04-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Today we had a pretty good day. Jonny has been gone almost 2 weeks, so we are over the half way hump and my sister will be here on Saturday! Yeah Aunt Jenny! I am already making some plans for some Mommy time! This morning we went to Angus' playgroup and this evening we had Brooke and Jack over for dinner. Brooke too is without husband, poor thing.

My last 10...

91. I have learned more from my husband that I ever did from school.
92. I love the Barenaked Ladies and think their concerts are the most fun to attend!
93. My favorite running distance is a half marathon. I ran my last one in Oregon and ran a personal best of 1 hour, 48 minutes, 17 seconds.
94. My favorite precious stone is the pearl.
95. I love when my husband speaks dirty to me in French.
96. I have a crush on Pamela Anderson.
97. I have a tattoo on my left foot.
98. I think that everyone should visit Australia before they die.
99. I love to watch the Fine Living channel with Jonny.
100. I tell my Jonny, Gemma, and Angus how much I love them everyday and realize how lucky I am to have them in my life.

Double post day!

2005-04-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

I decided to post twice today. I was so excited to get Jonny's pictures on my blog that I decided that he deserved his own post. I also had to think about my list some more.

Last night I had a horrible time getting to sleep. It isn't like I'm not tired. My muscles were sore and I felt like I was having heart palipitations. I then started to get worried about the kids and what would happen if I got sick. I think that I am just missing Jonny so much that I am not sleeping well. I am hoping tonight that I will get a little more sleep.

Today we went over to Kirsten and Jake's house for a playdate and lunch. We had a nice visit and they live in such a great area with great walking paths and a nice park. Kirsten is a fabulous cook and we had a lovely lunch.

I took the kids home for their naps and relaxed for a while. We got up and I dropped Gemma off at her friend Carson's house for another playdate and Angus and I were off to meet Brooke, Jack, and Brooke's parents for dinner at Chuy's. I have to say I have not ate at Chuy's since we moved here 9 years ago and it was quite tasty.

After dinner we went to Mama Java's for knitting. It was great to see everyone, but unfortunately I didn't get any knitting done. It was just some great adult time.

81. I used to play the oboe.
82. Vodka is my liquor of choice. I like it with cranberry juice, but I really like a vodka Collins with a splash of grenadine.
83. I do not like beer and I have never liked it.
84. I was a cheerleader for 3 years in high school.
85. I love red meat, especially a ribeye from Nebraska cooked rare.
86. I have a thing for British actors such as Colin Firth, Alan Rickman, and Hugh Grant. I especially love the movie "Love Actually" because all three of these men are in the movie.
87. I used to hate riding in the car for long distances, but since I took up knitting it is now fun!
88. I used to be a sports fanatic and I knew more about football than most men. Since I had kids, I have put my sports hobby on the back burner.
89. I went to the Soccer World Cup in France in 1998.
90. I went to the Rugby World Cup in Australia in 2003.

An Irishman in China...

2005-04-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

I am so excited! Jonny set a few snap shots of him in China. I had to share them with you! The first two pictures are in Chengdu, China and the third picture is in Shanghai, China. He has been working hard and for entertainment he has gone shopping in the markets and haggling away. He said he bought a linen table cloth with silk backing and Chinese designs for $1.50! He also spent most of his time at the knock-off market. I will soon be sporting a new Burberry jacket!

A statue of Mao Tso Tung

Jonny and Mao

Jonny in the middle of the anti-Japanese protest. (Hmmm...what is wrong with this picture?)

Tired, tired, tired

2005-04-19T23:04:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I think I hit the wall today. Angus hasn't slept all night in his room since Jonny has left and last night was no different. In fact he woke up at midnight and wouldn't go back to bed in his room, so he slept with me. He usually wakes up for the day around 8 am, but today it was 6:30! After I fed Gemma, fed Angus and got him down for a nap I was exhausted! I actually had to lay down for a nap! I am so looking forward to my sister's visit I can't even tell you! Jenny, please come well rested and ready take care of my kids! Pam, please be ready for a margarita at Kona Grill!

Tomorrow we are heading up to my friend Kirsten's house for a playdate with her son Jake. Gemma really likes Jake and it will be nice to have some more adult time. Tomorrow night I am hoping to go to knitting a little early while Gemma plays at her friend Carson's house. Let's hear it for Mommy time! (Of course Angus will be in tow!)

My list continues...

71. I love to knit!
72. I started a knitting group in Phoenix about year and a half ago.
73. I am a yarn snob.
74. I have a tough time relaxing. I only have one speed and it is full throttle.
75. I bite my nails.
76. I love my kids more than life itself.
77. I wish I had a better relationship with my siblings.
78. I wish I could see my Dad every day. He is the best Dad a girl could ever wish for!
79. I have always wanted to have big boobs, but I will never have them surgically enhanced.
80. I constantly worry about money.

Neighbors

2005-04-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty lazy Monday. I had planned on grocery shopping this morning, but I just didn't get around to it. Gemma had Spanish class at noon and by the time I got the kids and myself ready and Angus fed it was time to get to Spanish class. The kids took pretty good naps this afternoon, I even had to wake Angus up.

Our neighbor Shannon and her kids James and Brenna came over and we planned on going for a walk, but I needed to feed Angus, so we just ended up going over to house for dinner and skipping our walk. We had such a great time! Shannon is really great and I really enjoy her company. Her kids are so sweet and Gemma really likes to play with them.

Tomorrow we are going to dinner at my friend Marion's house. Marion is from Belfast, Northern Ireland and I am sure she will remind me of Jonny, so that will be nice.

Regarding to my interview questions my dear friend Pam, a.k.a. Auntie Pam, has asked a question regarding my popular question. She asked "Do you think that it is more important to have many friends or a few good friends?" Pam for you hear is my answer typed...

I think it is great to have a mix of both. I feel that I have the best of both worlds. I have a few very close friends (Pam you are in this group of course!) that I confide in and I have a lot of friends that I get together with on a regular basis. I like this because I have a variety of friends and you know that variety is the spice of life!

And the list goes on...
61. I rarely wear make-up.
62. I love to run and play sports like volleyball.
63. I cannot dance.
64. I am very competitive.
65. I hate cleaning and I am not good at it.
66. I love to cook and think I am pretty good at it.
67. I went to my first concert with my Dad and Mom which was Air Supply in 1982.
68. I went to several concerts when I was in my early teens with my Dad including Hall & Oats with OXO, Rick Springfield with Corey Hart, Def Leppard with Uriah Heap, and Bryan Adams with The Hooters.
69. I try to eat mostly natural and organic foods.
70. American Football is one of my favorite spectator sports, especially college.

Another birthday party

2005-04-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

Today we attended a family BBQ for Gemma's friend Gage. We had a really nice afternoon. Unfortunately I left the camera at the Galloway's house, so I have no pictures to post.

We left the party around 3:30 pm and I am happy to report Angus, Gemma and I all laid down for an almost 2 hour nap. I feel quite a bit refreshed and ready for the week.

More of my list...
51. I met my biological mother 10 years ago in Denver.
52. I no longer speak to my biological mother.
53. I have grown fond of my biological Grandfather and Uncle and his family and see them all regular.
54. I do not believe in a God.
55. I am a registered Democrat.
56. I like to conserve water.
57. I am a firm believer of separation of church and state.
58. My favorite television program is 24.
59. I love to read.
60. I started a book club with a few friends and it is still going strong after almost 3 years.

Happy Birthday Aunt Nancy!

2005-04-16T22:44:00.000-07:00

Today was a pretty tough day. I really miss my husband. I wish he was here.

We went over to the the Gemma's friends Nicholas and Holly for a playdate while Ann, Kelly, Emma and I had coffee. We had a nice time and it was relaxing. We went home to get the kids down for a nap and Angus didn't seem to be tired. Gemma woke up and Angus was still not a sleep, so I fed him and got him down. I got myself and Gemma ready to go to Aunt Nancy's birthday party. Unfortunately Gemma decided to wake Angus up from his nap and he cried the whole way to Aunt Nancy's house.

We had a nice time at Aunt Nancy's party and there were lots of kids for Gemma to play with. The food was very tasty as she had Mexican food catered in. Aunt Nancy and Robert seem very happy in their new engaged life together.

My list goes on...

41. We moved from Minneapolis to Arizona when it was 60 degrees below zero.
42. I have lived in Arizona for 9 years and 3 months.
43. I hate the summer heat more than anything in this world.
44. We lived in Portland, Oregon from January - August of 2003.
45. I would love to spend the rest of my days in Portland, Oregon!
46. I have 3 English Springer Spaniels named Clark, Murphy, and Rodger. They were all rescued from being put to sleep.
47. I volunteered for an animal rescue organization for 5 years.
48. I have never had a steady job since moving to Arizona.
49. I love being a stay-at-home Mom.
50. I drive a Honda Odyssey.

Interview questions and T.G.I.F.

2005-04-15T14:44:00.000-07:00

Here are the answers to my interview questions from Brooke!

1. As the leader of the knitting group, what has been your biggest challenge? Is the group what you imagined it would be?

The biggest challenge of leading the knitting group is trying to keep it fun. There have been instances where I feel that someone comes into the group that wants to make the group more serious or wanted to promote their own thing which in turn made me uncomfortable along with the other members. I always remind myself that this is a fun thing, not a job!

The group is actually better than I imagined. When I was organizing the group I didn't think there would be so many knitters. I also didn't think there would be such a demand for meetings. It has really been a treat to be part of the group and meeting so many great knitters. I have met so many neat people and new friends!

2. What do you miss most about Jonny when he’s gone for a month? (Besides the obvious answer, please.) Is there anything that has surprised you so far about being on your own?

What I miss most about Jonny is our pillow talk. It seems like this is the only time we have to catch up with each other.

There is nothing I miss about Jonny that has surprised me. I miss the obvious, waking up next to him, calling him at work, having him pick up things at the grocery store on his way home from work, running out and leaving the kidos with him, going to knitting solo, etc.

3. How has being adopted positively impacted you as a person? What is your view about all these kids being adopted from orphanages in other countries?

I have mixed emotions about children being adopted from orphanages. I think it is great for children to get into a family environment. I am however concerned that people are taking these children out of their natural environment into a totally different culture. I think it is extremely important to make sure that the adopted child has a good mix of the culture they were born into and their new American culture. I also hope that the families that are adopted these children are being set up for success with the International adoption agencies. I know when my parents adopted me they were basically flying blind raising an adopted child, I hope that these agencies provide education for the adoptive parents.

4. What does being popular mean to you? Is it having a lot of friends? Is it making sure everyone likes you? Does this desire color the way you see others?

Being popular to me means that people think that I am approachable, friendly and well liked. It does mean that I have a lot of friends because I feel that I am friendly and approachable. It doesn't necessarily mean that everyone likes me because I do not like everyone, but it does mean that most people I met do like me. I don't think it affects the way I see others.

5. If you could change one thing you have done so far in being a mother, what would it be? What do you think is your greatest success as a mother?

There are many little things that I would change about being a mother, but the one I would really like to change is that I wish I could be constantly patient with Gemma in her toddler years. I find that when my patience dwindles away that I tend to yell at her more. I am very ashed to admit it, but it is the truth and by admitting it maybe it will help me become more patient.

I think one of my greatest successes as a mother would have to be the way that I have chose to socialize my daughter. From day 1 we have always had Gemma and Angus around people and I feel that it has shaped their personalities. Anyone that has met Gemma can vouch for that. She is a little social butterfly and really good with people and children of all ages.

We had a pretty fun day today. Gemma had school this morning and after school her friend Livie and her Mom Mindy took Gemma to Desert Breeze to play on the splash pad and go for a train ride. She had a great time and Angus and I had some great baby/mommy time.

This evening we headed into Phoenix for dinner with Brooke, Joe, and Jack at Tucchetti. I have to say that Brooke's family is extremely generous. I just had said to Brooke that I was sorting through my kids clothing to give my sister clothes for her baby. She shows up tonight with 4 bags of Jack's clothes plus 5 outfits from her Mom Sandee! They rock! Thank you Streech/Adams family! My sister will be very appreciative!

After dinner we headed to the Camelback vs. Phoenix rugby match and met up with Eva, Pam and Melanie. Camelback won the game and claimed 3rd place in the league again this year. Way to go guys! On the way home from rugby, Jonny called us and he just arrived in Shanghai. There are anti-Japanese demonstrations going on in Shanghai right now and their shuttle from the airport got caught in the middle of it and they had to get out and walk to their hotel. More news and hopefully pictures of Jonny in China tomorrow!

And the list goes on...
31. My husband Jonny is from Limavady, Northern Ireland.
32. Jonny is the only man that I have ever loved, and still love.
33. We will be celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary on May 6th, 2005.
34. I have been to Northern Ireland 9 times.
35. I love to travel.
36. I have been to Northern Ireland, Ireland, England, Scotland, France, Indonesia (Bali), Australia, Mexico, and Canada.
37. My favorite place that I have traveled is Brisbane, Australia.
38. I love Coke, but limit myself to week-end drinking.
39. I love food! I am not a picky eater and love to try new things and places to eat.
40. Indian food is my favorite food, followed by Japanese (sushi) and Thai food.

A day at home

2005-04-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

Today me and the kids just stayed at home. It was so nice since we rarely do that. Angus had his playgroup, but he is still congested and coughing a bit so I didn't want to subject everyone to that.

And my list continues...

21. I lived in Minneapolis for 4 1/2 years.
22. I was big into the Minneapolis music scene and probably attend an average of 1 show a week.
23. I hung out with a guy from college named Brian and we became the best of friends and still are although he moved to Kansas City.
24. When I first moved to Minneapolis, I lived with my Grandma's aunt, who was 100 years old at the time.
25. I lived in 7 different apartment while living in Minneapolis.
26. Big Head Todd and the Monsters is my favorite band! I have seen them 13 times.
27. I met Jonny in Minneapolis. He was over from Northern Ireland training for his job at Seagate Technology.
28. I found out who my biological family was while living in Minneapolis.
29. I worked as an Therapuetic Recreations Assistant and Lead Activity Assistant while living in Minneapolis.
30. I also worked a 2nd job at a V.F.W. as a hostess and waitress. I need the job to pay for my phone bill and trips to N. Ireland to see my sweetheart!

The girl who misses her daddy

2005-04-13T22:10:00.000-07:00

Gemma on the carousel at the train park.

Gemma and Angus both had rough nights last night. Gemma really had a rough one. She was up at least 5 times during the night and finally on our 5th trip back to her room she started crying and said "I miss my daddy." She misses her daddy, can you imagine how I felt after 5 trips back to her room? I felt horrible for her, but I had to explain that I missed him too and that he would be back in a couple weeks. I wonder if she realizes that is kind of a ways away? Hopefully not.

I have been having a tough time getting motivated lately. I had to call Melissa from my MOMS Club to ask her if she was going to the McCormick-Stillman Train Park in Scottsdale today. She was on the fence too, but we decided to go together. Melissa's daughter Skylar is 1 day younger than Gemma. They have a pretty good time together and Melissa is a hoot, so we all had a good time.

Gemma on her horse!

In other news and worthy gossip. My friend Brian called and he is buying a house with his girlfriend! I think he is getting closer to popping the question! I am so proud of him making this kind of a commitment! I think Nancy will be beating him to the alter, so we are glad for that. (Nancy said she would slit her wrists if Brian got married before she did!) I also spoke to my sister who told us that we are to be expecting a new niece in September! Yeah! Other gossip, Auntie Pam has resigned from her job and has taken a new position at another company in Scottsdale! Congratulations to her on her decision making skills and new job!

We also spoke to Jonny, who is doing much better after having a bit of a sinus infection and a case of Montezuma's revenge (not sure what they call it in China.) Sorry honey for broadcasting it! Jonny is checking out living as an ex-pat in China Thursday night. He is going to check out the apartment of another expat and figuring out how the driver and maid service works. It is sounding better and better each day! Can you imagine having a maid 3 times a week and a driver?

I am really enjoying making my list. I thought I would throw in a shocker or two, so I hope I don't offend anyone.

11. All of my siblings and Jonny's sister are expecting new babies this year. My sister Becky has a boy named Isaac, who is 2 months older than Gemma. Jonny's sister has two girls, Rebekah, 11 and Erin, 9. Gemma will have a total of 4 new cousins by the end of the year!
12. I graduated from the University of Nebraska-Kearney.
13. I loved college!
14. I was a Chi Omega.
15. I gained 30 lbs my freshman year of college due to too much cheap beer and Domino's pizza.
16. I love the elderly.
17. I once played a stripper in a college play. I wore a bikini, but during one of the performances my bikini top fell off.
18. A lot of my friend's from college have moved to Phoenix and I get together with them regularly.
19. I once won $50 in a wet t-shirt contest. (Sorry Dad!)
20. During college I waited tables and worked at a laundry mat for spending money.

My list!

2005-04-12T22:57:00.000-07:00

I read another list of things about me on Squareslant's blog, who is someone whose blog I found via Brooke's blog. I noticed that we had a few things in common and that maybe by writing my own list I will find someone else who has common interests.

1. I grew up outside of Fremont, Nebraska.
2. I was adopted when I was a baby.
3. I am half Japanese, the other half is questionable.
4. I didn't realize or find out I was adopted until I was 11 years old.
5. I was told on the playgroup by a classmate of mine that I was adopted.
6. I have 3 siblings, Mark, Rebecca, and Jennifer who are my parent's biological children.
7. When I was in elementary and high school people made fun of me because of my shape of my eyes.
8. I was traumatized by racism.
9. I had a wonderful Grandma named Verna, who was like a mother to me and Gemma is named after.
10. I have had a need to feel popular since I was a little girl.

Whew, I have started my list.

Tonight I went to Target to pick up the kids pictures and they were very cute! Gemma had a fit because I made her sit in the cart. She is really missing her Daddy because that is something she rarely does. I just hope that this behavior doesn't continue for the entire time Jonny is gone. I dropped Gemma off at Nicholas and Holly's house for a playdate while I met my knitting buddies at Wildflower for dinner and went to knitting at Changing Hands for a while. Angus was on his best behavior and we had a nice relaxing time.

Me looking my tiredest and Angus in tow at knitting.

Tomorrow we are hoping to head to the McCormick-Stillman Train Park for MOMS Club pending Angus and Gemma are feeling up to it.

Week 1, day 4

2005-04-11T20:57:00.000-07:00

Angus and Gemma ready for bed!

We are going on our fourth day without Daddy and I have to say that although we miss him terribly, it has not been as bad as I would have thought. I am a firm believer in thinking the worst that way when the life event happens it is not nearly as bad as anticipated. Jonny is definitely the clean one in our family, but for some reason the house has not been as messy, there isn't as much laundry to do, and I am able to get things done like feeding the dogs, dishes and general picking up (even the dog poo!). Jonny would be impressed by my multi-tasking skills.

I have decided to change the tune of my blog and not feel so sorry for myself anymore. I am hoping Jonny is having a great time and getting much needed rest while he is away which gives me a chance to improve my mothering skills. How's that for positive?

I was thinking tonight there were a few things I wanted to add to my entry tonight. My friend Maura, Pam, and Nancy started a book club a few years ago. Maura moved away and Nancy left our book club, but Pam and I are still hanging in there. Unfortunately I missed the last book club due to illness, but I heard I missed tons of fun! I also really wanted to review the book as I actually read it and really loved it! We read the book "The Other Boleyn Girl" by Phillipa Gregory. It was historical fiction about Mary Boleyn, Anne Boleyn's sister. At first I thought it would be very boring, but I have to say it was a great ready and much to my surprise it was dirty! I really don't like romance novels, but give me a great historical fiction book with lots of sex and you've got a winner with me! Anyway, I am hosting the next book and I selected the book from the recommendation of Pam from knitting, "The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. I order the book off half.com and it should be coming soon. I am currently reading "The Curious incident of the Dog in the Nighttime" by Mark Haddon which is a pretty good book and a quick read. My review after I finish the last 50 pages tonight...

I also have been able to see a few movies. We tried out Blockbuster.com and I am a little disappointed because it take an extra day to get your movies unlike Netflix.com . Plus it seems like it is fairly hard to get new releases. The good thing about Blockbuster is they give you free rentals at their store per month. Anyway I just finished seeing the movie "Ray" during naptime today and it was a fabulous movie! I was so impressed! I had heard that it wasn't that great, but I have to disagree. It was a great overview of Ray Charles Robinson's life. I never realized he was such a womanizer and druggie! Dad, if you are reading you would really, really like this movie!

This morning we took Angus to his 4 month appointment. He weighed in at 17lbs and 25 inches. He is a healthy little boy! He also had 3 injections, which he wasn't happy about. After that we headed to downtown Chandler for Gemma's Spanish Class. My neighbor Ann called and wanted to trade babysitting and I quickly agreed. I am all about trading babysitting!

Ann with the kids.

Gemma, Nicholas, Ann, Angus, Holly, and Pete.

Her kids Nicholas and Holly came over to play for a few hours while they went home appliance shopping and had dinner. Gemma had a great time with her playmates!

Tomorrow night Gemma is going over to the Nicholas and Holly's house for a playdate while Mommy goes to knitting. Brooke, Jack, Angus and I are going to Wildflower for dinner before knitting if anyone would like to join us. We are planning on being there around 5:30 pm.

Blowin' in the wind...

2005-04-09T22:49:00.000-07:00

We had our first night with Jonny not home and I have to say it was not very good. I stayed up until 12:30 a.m. and watched the movie "The Manchurian Candidate", which was definitely not worth staying up that late for. Angus got up at 1 a.m. to eat and then Gemma came in and hopped in bed with me. She tossed and turned for about an hour so I decided to send her back to her room. I woke up around 7:30 a.m. with Angus on one side of me and Gemma's head next to mine. So much for getting the bed to myself!

This morning we were to go to my MOMS Club picnic, but I thought that we should stay home as Gemma still has a horrible snotty nose. We had a pretty nice relaxed morning at home before we headed to Mesa for rugby.

Auntie Pam went with us to to rugby and we met Machaela, Pam, Melanie with Myriah in tow, Krystal, Brooke and Jack.

Jack and Angus hanging out in their strollers.

Melanie walking Myraih and Gemma!

Me, Pam and Machaela, the girls of Camelback!

Pam, Gemma, and Melanie doing a little stitchin' in the wind.

Unfortunately Camelback didn't play very well and I couldn't even get any of the guys to tell me the final score. One player said that Red Mountain scored at least 100 points on them! Very sad! It was also a very windy day as you will notice from my photos. I think today might be the last cool day of the spring.

After rugby Pam, myself and the kids decided to get a bite to eat. I looked through my handy dandy Entertainment book and asked Pam what she was in the mood for. We ended up trying this restaurant that opened a couple years ago called "Soul in the Hole", which is food with a Southern flare. I can't wait to take Jonny there when he returns home as they have catfish. Pam and I ordered the fried Chicken, which was the best I have ever had + macaroni and cheese and cole slaw. I definitely can see myself eating there again.

Gemma refusing to open her eyes for the camera.

Auntie Pam and Gemma at Soul in the Hole.

After the kids went to bed I watch the movie "Finding Neverland". It was a nice movie, but how could anyone ever go wrong with Johnny Depp. I got my thrid phone call of the day from Jonny, which was a pleasant suprise. He is so amazed that he was the only white guy he saw for 4 hours walking the streets of Chengdu. He said groups of children would stop, stare and giggle at his bald head. He seems to be enjoying his experience.

Lights, Camera, Action..."Wiggles!"

2005-04-08T23:59:00.000-07:00

Jonny left this morning for Asia. It has been a bittersweet day. I really miss him. He is my rock and he is such a great dad. I know Gemma desperately misses him. She was asking him to buy her a princess night gown when he was in Asia, but I think she thought he was going to be home sometime tonight to give it to her. I put her to bed and she told me she wanted Daddy to kiss her goodnight when he gets here. It is so hard for kids to understand that when a person goes away the length of time it will be until they see each other again. I know when my dad left after his last visit she cried all the way home saying she missed papa Steve. She also cried when nanny Caroline, papa Sidney, and Rebekah left to go back to the UK. I just hope to keep her busy and make the time go fast for all of us.

Tonight I took the kids to see The Wiggles at Dodge Theater. We originally met Jeff, Murray, and Captain Feathersword while we were in Brisbane, Australia a couple years ago during Jonny's sabbatical. I took Gemma to see them last year when she was 2, but she enjoyed it much more this time. She danced and sang the entire show. They are really great entertainers and they put on a fabulous show! Thanks Wiggles for making today a little more bareable.

As for Daddy, we miss you terrible and look forward to your call in the morning when you arrive in Chengdu. 1 day down, 23 more to go!

Pre-China Woes

2005-04-06T21:53:00.000-07:00

I went to knitting tonight on my last outing before Jonny leaves for China. Had a nice time and was able to meet Becky Williams' new baby Dillon. I really wanted to hold him, but since there is still sickness in our house I figured I better not. I was telling everyone that I knew the kind of day I was having when I went to the at 3 pm and realized I had my thong on backwards all day! I got a good laugh from everyone and they agreed I definitely should blog about it. So if you are reading my blog, I am sure I gave you a good laugh as I sure made the girls at knitting roar tonight.

Came home and Gemma has a 101 temp. Poor things, she sounds horrible. I am going to take her to the doctor in the morning. We will probably have a pretty restless night as Gemma is sleeping with me and Angus will be up for a feeding sometime during the night.

Only one more day with Jonny at home! Yikes!

We be illin'

2005-04-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

Angus and Gemma, don't they look like their mommy and daddy?

After over a weeks hiatus from blogging I thought I better get back to it. I was actually just mad at flickr (actually myself for not reading the small print) for not allowing me to post pictures the rest of March, which I thought made my blog bland.

Angus and Gemma recovering

The past week Angus, myself, and Jonny were ill with a stomach bug and now we all have a cold or sinus thing going on. Gemma also ended up in the emergency room with a head injury and concussion. She fell from her wagon onto the back of her head. It was very scary, but she is doing great now. She managed to escape the stomach bug, but most likely has some type of allergy thing going. I would do about anything for us all to be healthy again! I guess it could be worse, we could be sick next week.

Master Angus lounging in his chair.

Jonny is leaving on Friday for a business trip for just over 3 weeks. He will be visiting Chengdu and Shanghai, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia and the Philippines. I am so happy for his opportunity to visit all of these places because Jonny absolutely loves to travel and loves other cultures. I am however feeling very sorry for myself. I keep thinking how hard it is going to be taking care of two kids, one that doesn't really sleep through the night, by myself for 3 weeks. Luckily, my sister will be out for about 5 days to help and Brooke and Jack have offered to take a trip out of town with us to make the time go faster.

Well, now for some back blogging. I thought I would post a few pictures for our family who don't get to see us very often.

Jonny with his "Ulster Fry" Easter morning.

Easter morning Jonny made us a delicious Ulster Fry for breakfast including bacon, sausages, eggs, tomato, mushrooms and toast with HP sauce to dip our fried food in.

Gemma, Mommy, and Angus at the neighbors' house for Easter.

We spent Easter at our neighbors house with about 6 other families. It was a ton of fun!

Making Easter cookies at Sandee's house.

A few days before Easter we spent the day at Sandee's house a.k.a. Brooke's mom where we decorated Easter cookies and eggs and played with playdough. I think Brooke, Kirsten and I had more fun with the funky colored playdough than the kids!

Playing playdough!

Angus and his good buddy Jack

Angus, all in from playing with Jack

Week-end before last we had the great pleasure of having Jonny's cousin Greg visit us from Melbourne, Australia. We had such a great time and I definitely wanted to share pictures so you could all see the Dallas resemblance.

Breakfast on the back patio

Gemma enjoying her day at the ball game.

Gemma, Jonny, and Greg at the Padres vs. Cubs game.

Angus sleeping the game away.

Gemma, Jonny, Greg and I at the Padres game.

Greg with the kids before departing for down under!

Can you say China?

2005-03-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

Jonny met us at SwimKids for Gemma's testing out of Bronze Junior. She passed with flying colors and I was very impressed with her progress as I haven't been to swimming lessons in quite a long time. She is quite the little swimmer! They did the whole Olympic tune and gave her a ribbon. Jonny also came with the news that he have to go to Asia for 2 weeks on a business trip. I immediately panicked and thought of who could come and help me with the kiddos. I called my dad to ask him for his help, but I am not sure if I am getting it.

I do have to rant for a minute because I do know that my parents read my blog and they may succumb to guilt. I have been out of the house since I was 18 years old, yes I may have caused quite a stir when I did live at home for those years, but after those years were up I never moved back home. In fact after I was married almost 10 years ago I never asked for anything! You never had to let me live in your mother's house for free, help with my children other than short visits to AZ or us to Nebraska which I know you did gladly, or loan me money. I am only asking for 1 week of help out of your lives to play with your grandkids and give me a break. I know you don't think it is a big deal to take care of two kids because you had four, but you always had Grandma and Grandpa to help you out whenever you needed them. Please consider my sanity and come out and see your grandkids! Mom, especially you, you haven't even seen you new grandson yet!

Ok, now that I have that out of my system, I feel much better. We went to dinner after swimming lesson's with our friends from SwimKids, Bill, Mindy, and Olivia. Olivia and Gemma have been in swim class together for about 1 1/2 and we have grown quite fond of them. We went to this new restaurant called Picazzo's . It was quite tasty and I highly recommend the Fresh Pear Gorgonzola. Yummy!!!

Anyway, after dinner we got home and Jonny checked his email and he actually have to go to Asia for over 3 weeks! I was crushed! I really don't know what I am going to do! Let me know if you have any suggestions or if you have a mother or father to loan me for a few weeks!

Fair Dinkum

2005-03-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy week-end with Jonny's cousin, Greg visiting us from Melbourne, Australia. Greg and his wife Fiona have a wine tour company called Epicurean food and wine tours. We were fortunate to go on one of their tours two years ago when we were in Australia. Greg was over on a business trip to attend a trade show in Philadelphia and Los Angeles.

Saturday we picked Greg up from the airport and took him to lunch on Cyclo. Greg had a customer that just happened to be the General Manager for the San Diego Padres, so Jonny and Greg headed up to the Padres spring training game to meet Kevin Towers. After they returned from the game Aunt Nancy came over to watch the kids and we took Greg out for a night on the town. We ate dinner at Barrio Cafe and then hit Cheuvront Wine Bar for dessert and wine. I highly recommend the dessert wine by the glass at Cheuvront's called Lillypilly. It is from Australia and it is scrummy!

Kevin Towers reserved tickets to the Padres vs. Cubs game on Sunday and we were off to Peoria. It was a beautiful day and the kids had a great time at the ball game. After the game we headed down to Red Kangaroo Wines for Greg to meet with Roger, the owner of the wine shop. We had dinner at home and Jonny made his famous rotiserrie chicken. Greg treated us with wine from Red Kangaroo. We had a great bottle of Merlot with dinner and my favorite dessert wine, Noble One from DeBortili (the place we went to for wine tasting when we were in Australia). Monday morning we took Greg to Scottsdale Fashion Square to meet his friend who was going to take him to the airport. We had a lovely visit with Greg and hope that he comes back again soon! Hopefully with Fiona and Ethan!

By the way, I have used all of my pictures space for the month on Flickr. I am so mad! I can't believe I cannot post my pictures again until April 1st! Bummer!

A room with a view???

2005-03-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

A view from my shower...

yesterday I woke up and needed to get everyone ready for the day. I had a babysitter and Miss Gemma was staying at home with her while I took Angus with me. I got the kids ready and it was now my turn. I told Gemma I was going to take a shower and if she needed I would be in the bathroom. I took Angus into the bathroom with me and put him in his buzzy chair, got undressed and was about to turn the shower on when Gemma came waltzing in with armchair. I said to them that I would use this against them when they were teenagers.

Gemma with her cheeky grin!

I think most Moms know that you just don't get much privacy being a Mom. I don't know the last time I went to the bathroom or took a shower without an audience. I really don't mind, but someday it will be nice to have a shower in peace and clear my head. Maybe in another 18 years....

I was able to go to knitting, then out to lunch with Brooke, Sandee, Pam and the babies. I then went home to pick up Gemma so that I could get a haircut. I went to this new hairdresser called Andrew. I have to say he was a really nice guy. I just love hairdressers that you can talk to about a variety of topics. I even got a great haircut!

We went over to Auntie Pam's to drop off her knitting she left in the van. We stayed for about an hour while Gemma played with her dog Zoey. I just want to thank Pam for being such a fabulous friend! When you are in a funk you can talk to her and she helps you see things more clearly. Everyone should have a friend like Pam! Thanks girl!

Today we are off the Ballerina School, an Easter Egg Hunt (depending on if it rains or not), and then to pick Jonny's cousin up from the airport. We should have some great pictures!

Happy Shamrock Day!

2005-03-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

Last night I enjoyed a night of knitting at Mama Java's. They actually double booked us with an St. Paddy's Day reading, so we were in the back room.

Melanie and Pam, stitchin 'n bitchin

Brooke and Jack, not getting much knitting done

Becky, Eva, and a new knitter chatting

Today was St. Patrick's Day. We hosted a little party at our house for Gemma's playgroup. We had about 9 moms and 18 kids. It was pretty crazy, but lots of fun.

The kids playing! The dress-up clothes were very popular!

Tonight I made dinner for Jonny, Gemma, and our friend Teri (Jonny's rugby team president's wife). We had Guinness Stew with new potatoes and Blackberry and Apple Crumble with Custard. I would have to say it was quite tasty.

Tomorrow I am going to knitting at Coffee Rush. I also have a babysitter for Gemma and I am also going to get my haircut. I am still not sure whether or not I am going to chop my hair off, we will have to see....

Tummy ache

2005-03-15T21:00:00.000-07:00

Our weekend ended with Gemma coming down with a stomach virus. I took her shopping with me and she is usually pretty excited to go with me, but when by the time we got to our second destination she wanted to go home. I got her home and put her down for a nap.

Pam and I went to to knitting at Pita Jungle. It was a nice group of knitters and we had a nice lunch. After knitting Pam and I went grocery shopping together. We hit Sprouts, Trader Joe's, and Safeway. At Trader Joe's and Safeway I enquired about a couple men for Pam. It was quite fun for me, but very embarrassing for Pam. Pam, I swear one these times it will pay off.

When I returned from shopping Miss Gemma was still feeling pretty punk. We got the kids to bed early and hoped for a nights sleep. Around 2 a.m. Gemma came into our room and said that she puked all over, we took her back to her room and sure enough we had quite a mess to clean up. We cleaned up the mess and hoped that was the last of the throwing up. Gemma woke up feeling much better, but we stayed in for the day to help her to recover.

Last night was a pretty bad night with Angus. For some reason Angus went to bed at 8 p.m. and then woke at 12 a.m., 1 a.m., 2 a.m., and 3 a.m. and stayed awake for another 1 hour and a half. We still don't know what was wrong with him, but that was the first time he was wide awake in the middle of the night. I think it was because I got my hopes up too much after he sleep for 9 hours the other night.

When we finally did get up we went to playgroup and then made our second trip to the gym. The kids did great at the child center again. I am really pleased that I am able to feel comfortable leaving them. It really gives me the break I need during the day.

Tomorrow we have our MOMS Club social and we are heading to the gym again. Tomorrow night I am going to knitting at Mama Java's.

They Won!!!

2005-03-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

Today was a pretty great day! Jonny's rugby team won their first game vs. Old Pueblo from Tucson 54-12. We had a good turnout of knitter's, Pam and her dog Lucy, Michelle, and Machaela. Unfortunately I didn't get much knitting done, but it was a very social day.

Angus sleeping at the game

Gemma with Michelle

Tony striking a pose - girls see what your missing!

Tony and Jonny after the game

Angus and Daddy at his first trip to Kaddy Corner

We had good news the other day, Jonny's cousin is coming to visit from Australia next Saturday, so we are really looking forward to his visit. We will be busy tomorrow preparing the house for his visit. I am planning on sneaking out to meet everyone at Pita Jungle. I hope to see you tomorrow.

My girls all grown up!

2005-03-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today was a fairly normal Friday. We went to school and came home for naps. Angus was in quite a fowl mood. It started a couple days ago. I was dreading that he might be teething and now I am pretty sure that is what's bugging our little man. I gave him a little Tylenol and it was off to our first day back at the gym.

I went for my first work-out at the gym and left Angus in the infant area and Gemma in the toddler area. I have to say it was not as stressful to leave Angus as it was for me to leave Gemma at the gym when she was a baby. I went to the locker room to lock up my stuff and the jumped on the treadmill for a nice long run. I wasn't 2 minutes into my run when they paged me. I thought the worse, Gemma had an accident or Angus is screaming his head off. I got down the child center to find out I only had a dirty diaper to change. Whew! I was back up to the treadmill and my nice relaxing 30 minute run.

I went to pick the kids up and Angus was a sleep. I still had an hour left of child center, so Gemma and I rushed to the locker room to get ready for our swim. It was so nice and Gemma is quite the little fish. We chased each other around the pool for a while and had swimming races.

We picked Angus up from the child center and he was in a great mood! Our first trip to the gym was a success!!!

Tonight Auntie Pam stopped by to show me her knitting. She is making the Booga Bag and had made a few mistakes. She asked Gemma if she wanted to have a sleepover at her house and Gemma agreed. We packed up her bags (as she kept singing the Sonia Da Da song 'I'm going to pack up my bags and I'm gonna go away') and she was off to Auntie Pam's house for the night.

I have to say, it sure is quiet without her around here. I had to call and make sure things were going ok and sure enough they were having a ball!

Tomorrow is her preschool ballet class and rugby. Let me know if you are interested in going to rugby! Speaking of rugby, did you know that Phoenix has it's very own gay rugby team? They are called the Phoenix Storm. Jonny met a Scottish guy last night at practice who plays for them! I guess there is a gay rugby league in the US. What a great way to meet someone!

I think my computer problems are over...

2005-03-09T21:36:00.000-07:00

Gemma in her bath

I have to say that I have really missed posting the past few days while my computer was on the blink. We have been so busy the last few days and I really want to share the fun things that we have done the last few days, especially the pictures!

Pam L. brought her camera to rugby and took a couple adorable pictures of the kids. One picture is with my dear friend Pam J. who is known to the kids as Auntie Pam.

Gemma and Angus

Auntie Pam and the kids

Sunday we met Brooke, Joe, and Jack at Duck and Decanter for lunch.

Gemma and Brooke

Gemma with Joe and Jack

We had a fabulous bottle of Alamos Malbec, my new favorite wine! Jonny is the wine conesiuerr of the family and he turned me on to this wine. I think he is just looking for a drinkin’ buddy! Brooke and I also switched knitting projects for SWTC. I was working on the dreaded Mariposa shawl and Brooke had a girls cardigan. I will be much happier and less stressed with the cardigan.

After lunch we went to Art Detour to see our friend Thuong’s new art work. His new prints are really impressive. He just gets better with age!

Uncle Thuong at his studio

Angus and Jonny getting ready to go into Legend City

Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa how I love you....

Monday, the kids and I spent the day shopping for groceries, washing the mini-van, and then spent the afternoon on the phone with Dell. Uhg!!!! Thankfully our friend Steve Soukup agreed to fix our computer!!!

Tuesday we had a great day hiking at South Mountain Park with Gemma’s playgroup. Unfortunately I forgot the camera, so there are no pictures. I have never hiked in this part of the park, but we definitely will bring our out of town visiter’s here for a nice walk. The kids just ran around the trails for an hour and the views were breathtaking! After the kids woke up from their naps we headed to our neighborhood park. The weather was pretty fantastic! I was able to start the cardigan for SWTC while Gemma played in the park. I headed to Cupz for an evening of knitting.

Melanie and her cool hat!

Pam in her future cool hat she is designing!

Today, was very fun. We met Brooke, Kirsten, Julie and her two friends for a day at the zoo. I have to blow my daughter’s horn, she was so well behaved and such a big girl at the zoo! She did so well with the babies and made a new friend, Jake Kirsten’s little boy. We had a nice picnic lunch and then headed back to Chandler.

Angus and Gemma getting ready for the zoo.

Gemma, a midwest farmer at heart!

Gemma and the egg

After naps we headed to the park again to meet Annette and Gage. I also met woman at the park who was knitting. It is just all the rage!

Good news on regarding Gemma’s swimming! She will be testing out of the third level in two weeks! Yeah!!!

Tomorrow we are heading to playgroup and then a picnic in the park with Annette and Jill and the kids. It is suppose to be in the 80's tomorrow! Anyone jealous?

Saturday we are going to rugby again. Let me know if you are interested! I think Pam L. is in.

More technical difficulties...

2005-03-07T22:45:00.000-07:00

I am having more technical difficulties with my laptop. I spent most of the day on the phone with Dell technical support and I have to say, they don't know crap! I also will go as far to say that I would not recommend buying a Dell nor will I ever purchase a Dell. Luckily I have a friend coming over tomorrow to check out my computer. Whew! I will be back to normal blogging! (Sorry Mom, I will post the pictures of the kids tomorrow.)

Tomorrow night I am planning on going to Cupz in Gilbert to check that place out. I know Pam and Melanie are going too! I hope to see you there! Anyone know how to knit socks? I am on the gusset part of my socks for Jonny and I don't know what I am doing.

Ballerina School, Knitting, Crochetting, and Rugby

2005-03-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

Gemma had her first day for Ballet School. She is taking Preschool Ballet with the City of Chandler Parks and Recreation Department. It was really cute; there were 15 little girls in dance attire between the ages of 3-5. The girls were to stand on the red line and Gemma stood there with her fingers in her mouth for the first 20 minutes.

Gemma with her finger in her mouth.

Mommy and her little man.

Gemma and Mommy after ballet.

Jonny was a bit worried about her, but I knew that she would perform before the end of the class. Sure enough, the girl didn’t let me down. She was following the teacher and the other girls by the end of the class.

After ballet we planned a knitting and rugby day out. Jonny’s team played Tempe in Chandler. Pam J., Pam L. and Melanie all came to the game with knitting in tow. Melanie also came with Mariah, her cute little dog. I have to say that Melanie is the bomb with kids! She entertained Gemma the entire game with Mariah. Melanie, you don’t know how much I appreciated you today! Gemma had a great time! We had a great day working on our projects. My sock is coming along, Pam J.’s felted bag is looking good, Melanie is working on an awesome hat, and Pam is the crocheting queen is designing a hat! We had a great day out and I am thinking the girls liked the view.

I hope those of you who missed it can make it next weekend. Hopefully the weather will be more agreeable!

We are looking forward to tomorrow; we are meeting Brooke, Joe, and Jack for lunch at Duck and Decanter and going to Art Detour. Should be a great day!

Mrs. Social Butterfly

2005-03-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

Call me a sucker for social events and clubs. My neighbor invited me to come to her card club. Who am I to turn down a chance to meet new people and socialize? There was about 12 or so women playing the game Ueker. I picked up the game pretty quickly because it is very much like my favorite card game 10 point pitch, a very popular Nebraska card game. I had a great time playing cards, but thing that was most amazing is that I met a woman named Molly from Minnesota. Now you may not know this, but I lived in Minneapolis for 4 1/2 years before moving to Arizona (I have been here just over 9 years.). When living in Mpls I was totally into the music scene. I went to see a band on the average of once a week. Molly and I must have been at the same place at the same time because we had seen all of the same bands and had the same favorite bands. I used to hang out at First Avenue, the home of the movie "Purple Rain", the Fine Line Music Cafe, and the Cabooze. Her favorite band is Big Head Todd and the Monsters, which is also my most favorite band. It was so great to reminisce about the great times seeing bands such as Mango Jam, the Honeydogs, Big Backyard, Soul Asylum, Prince, Sonia Dada, etc. I am also very excited to say that Big Head Todd will be playing at the McDowell Mountain Ranch Music Festival on the 30th of April, whoopee!!!

On the knitting front, not much completed today. I worked a couple rounds of my sock. I really need to get started on the Mariposa shawl for SWTC, but I noticed Brooke may want to trade me test knitting projects. I guess she hasn't see the pattern for Mariposa!

Don't forget, Saturday is knitting and rugby. Bring your knitting and lawn chairs! Jonny's team plays at 1 pm on Saturday at Cieleto Park at 35th Avenue and Campbell. Please come if you can make it. Right now I think Pam, Jen, and Melanie are in! It should be a good day out!

Mommy girls don't like boys

2005-03-02T21:03:00.000-07:00

Angus' first smiling picture!

Today was a fabulous day like I expected. We spent the day up north with Brooke & Jack, Julie & Mac, and Sandee. Gemma had an even better day spending most of it with Sandee baking. Brooke, Julie, myself and the boys headed to Jessica Knits for a couple hours of knitting. I was very happy to get my husbands socks started and I have to say they are turning out quite good! I am using Reggia yarn in a variegated black/grey color.

The Jack, Mac, and Angus on the Streech's floor.

Little person, big ideas!

We headed back to Brooke's parents house to have lunch and see what Sandee and Gemma whipped up. What a wonderful surprise we had to see that Gemma and Sandee not only baked cookies, but cookies (with the chip of her choice), bars, and biscotti. They were fabulous!!!

Gemma and Sandee with their baking delights!

We sat down to lunch and Gemma to my embarrassment was quite entertaining. She said to me, "Mommy girls don't like boys." and I told her "I like your Daddy and he's a boy." She went on to say "Boys have cha chas". Now cha cha is the name that we came up with to call a girl's private parts. Everyone at the table was a little confused, so I had to explain to Gemma that wasn't true, so Brooke asked Gemma "What do boys really have?" of course Gemma answers "Boys have willies." Everyone got a good laugh out of that. I would have to say that kids are a lot of work, but the hours of entertainment they provide are priceless.

I dropped the kids off with Jonny, so he could take Gemma to swimming lessons and I headed to Wildflower and Changing Hands for a night of knitting.

Melaine and Pam in action.

Knitting at Changing Hands

What a wonderful day :) Tomorrow we are off to playgroup and I am having another mommy night at my neighbor's house for card club.

Thank you notes

2005-03-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

First of all I want to apologize for my tardiness on the thank you notes for Angus' baby gifts. Some of you may have received them, but you are the lucky ones. I still have about 50 to write. Is it just me or is it really hard to write thank you notes? It isn't because we don't appreciate everyone's kindness, we do more than you can imagine, but I am not sure why I have a hard time sitting down to write them. I have been trying to write them as I plan on seeing people, but I have already fail miserably at that task, so I am turning over a new leaf and writing them in between typing by entry this evening. So, Sandee and Julie please look forward to your very tardy thank you note tomorrow. Kiki and Alison, will you be at knitting tomorrow? If so you can look forward to yours too!

Today I played foreign relations minister to Northern Ireland. I had my friends Marion (Madine) Kelleher and Bronagh (Quinn) Powell over for lunch with their children. Bronagh is from Kilkeel and Marion is from Belfast. Marion is my MOMS Club friend and Bronagh's husband is our eye doctor. I thought it would be great for them to meet because I think it is always nice to meet someone from where you grew up. They seem to understand you better. We had a nice afternoon and I really think they had a nice time.

Jonny came home late from work, again and decided to go to rugby, so I was in charge of bedtime for the kids. It has been so nice lately, Gemma has been telling us that she is tired around 8 pm and goes to bed on her own. Unfortunately she has decided to get out of bed earlier, but I am pretty happy about her early bed time. Now if we could only get Master Angus to sleep through the night...Maybe in a few more weeks..

We are looking very forward to tomorrow. Gemma, Angus, and I are going up to Sandee, Brooke's mom in hopes of getting adopting! We going up to take Gemma to bake cookies with Sandee while we go to knit at Jessica Knits. We also have knitting at Changing Hands tomorrow night, so it will be a great day, whoopee!!!!

Too tired to post...

2005-02-27T22:08:00.000-07:00

I am so tired I really didn't want to post tonight, but I also didn't want to go to bed without my husband, who was cleaning the office for the first time since we moved into our house this past June.

We had an early morning with Miss Gemma greeting us at 6:30 am. Jonny had Gemma duty, so I slept until 8 am with Angus. I got up to make brunch for our friends, the Stinson's who were coming over at 10am. We had a nice morning eating and chatting with them. Jonny however had to watch rugby at noon because Ireland was playing England and the world would end if he didn't watch the game live! I was a little annoyed by this as our company was still at our house, but when it comes to rugby, there is no talking to him!

Jonny was in a great mood because Ireland beat England 19 -13 and I was heading to Jessica Knits with Pam, Elaine, and our babysitter Michelle for an afternoon of knitting. I didn't get much knitting done, but I did buy myself a new project. I have wanted to tackle socks, so I picked up some sock yarn and double pointed needles for my next project. I am also working on a strawberry hat to give as a baby gift for one of the babies that are going to be born this year. I am hoping one of my siblings or sister-in-law has a girl!

I am also looking for a pair of size 8 circular needles, 47 inch in length. I am trying to get my test knitting started for SWTC and I can't seem to find these needles. Please let me know if anyone has a pair they could lend me or a place I can buy them.

The kids and I are headed to the park for a playdate in the morning. We actually have a pretty busy week, so look forward to an interesting blog week!

You gotta love men in skirts!

2005-02-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

We had our big family outing to the Scottish Highland Games to day in Mesa. We had a fabulous time! There were tons of men and women decked out in traditional Scottish garb. So people that are reading this don't know that first of all my husband is from Northern Ireland, attended university in Edinburgh, Scotland at Herriot-Watt University and his last name 'Dallas' is actually a Scottish name. That is why we have such an interest in Scottish culture. We were able to eat Scottish delicacies such as Haggis (which was in a can, I thought that was funny.), Steak and Mushroom Pie, Fish and Chips, and Gemma had a Sausage Roll.

Gemma eating her Sausage Roll.

Gemma stealing her Daddy's chips.

We walked around all of the booths where they were selling British food, knick knacks, t-shirts, etc. One booth that was very interesting was a place selling kilts that are called 'Utilikilts'. They were actually quite rock star esque, but there was one problem. One of the jack asses selling the kilt had an "IRA Freedom Fighters" t-shirt on with his kilt. I could not believe it and when I told Jonny what his t-shirt said he just shook his head. I cannot believe an American, who has never lived in Northern Ireland, would have the nerve to insult people with his t-shirt. Does he not know that the IRA is a terrorist organizations? Plus, kilts are British, so wasn't he contradicting himself by wearing that shirt with a kilt? I wonder if he sold any kilts???

We then walked around the clan booths looking for a man and woman we met back in 1998. William and Betty Hanna were a retired couple we spent the day with back then because Jonny noticed their Ulster flag flying at their booth. His father was from Northern Ireland and her mother was from Scotland. We found Mr. Hanna and found out that his wife had passed away in August and that he was ill himself. We met his son and daughter-in-law and they were all so nice. We were so happy that he remembered us after all of these years.

We took the kids over to see the pipe band competition. There is nothing like the sweet sound of bagpipes...

Jonny and Angus listening to the pipe band.

We ended our Scottish Festival experience watching a bit of the Highland Games and checking out the British cars. Brooke this one's for you!

Jonny, his parents, sister, and uncle drove this type of mini to London to see Prince Charles and Lady Di get married in 1981. This mini is about half the size of the mini you just got rid of. Can you imagine trying to fit a car seat in this puppy?

Technical Difficulties

2005-02-25T23:37:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately my computer has been down for the last 24 hours, so I haven't had a chance to update my blog. Now that I am blogging I keep thinking of things throughout the day that might be interesting to the general public, my friends, and family. I hoping to make my blog interesting and worthy of your time.

Thursday I woke up with a horrible backache. I fell asleep sometime in the middle of the night when I got up with Angus. We sat in the living room and the only thing I remember is sitting down and latching him on. I think I sleep sitting up for the next 2 hours. I guess I get so exhausted from getting and up general child rearing that I sleep sitting up.

Gemma's friend Carson came over for the day because his mother, Hallie and brother, Harrison went to New Jersey for a long weekend. Hallie's husband Shannon, who is a lawyer, is probably one of the nicest people I know. He said when he gets off work he wants to take Gemma and Carson to Chuck E. Cheese. All day the kids were so excited about their date to Chuck E. Cheese. They had a great day playing together and they just get along really well. They even took attempted to take a nap together in which Gemma sat on her bed and Carson fell asleep on the floor in front of the door.

Thursday evening I went to visit the twins, Jeffrey and Matthew Homer. They are so tiny and so cute. Kim is doing a great job nursing both boys and she is a natural as a mother. I brought them their hats and I am looking forward to seeing the picture of me holding them in their new hats.

The twins hats.

Now for my actual Friday post....My social calendar is too full!!!

I was just thinking, why do I love being a social butterfly? Everyone teases me because I am always running around doing something or socializing with one group of friends or meeting new people. I seem to thrive on this. I think it is because I love to learn new things and with each person I meet, I learn something new and a lot of the time I form a new friendship.

Angus and Gemma laying in bed.

We started off the day running around crazy trying to get the kids ready to take Gemma to school. We were a little late as usual, but it was a pretty good day. I realize that I don't know how much longer I am going to be able to take Gemma to school. In order to take Gemma to school I need to be able to carry Angus on my body either in a sling, baby bjorn, etc. Angus seems to be a strapping 15lbs and I don't think I am going to be able to carry him for 2 hours for the next 12 weeks. If any one has suggestions on how to carry an infant, a relatively, large infant for 2 hours straight please let me know.

I had lunch plans with Brooke and Jen today at Postino. We were out celebrating Jen's 30th birthday. Postino is one of my most favorite places to go in Phoenix. We had a lovely lunch, a great glass of wine and got a little knitting done. Brooke and I decided it was about time that we met Jen's significant other, Mike. We are planning on having dinner with them in the near future so we can give Jen the rubber stamp of approval. Are you nervous Jen, or maybe Mike should be???

Sleeping Angus...

The Birthday Girl! Jen is 30 tomorrow!!!! Happy Day!

Brooke, the knitter.

Young Jack enjoying the couches at Postino

After lunch I rushed home to get ready to go to yet another social event, Book Club. We read the book "The Notebook". Although I cried through a lot of the book, I did find it to be a little on the cheesy side for me. I am looking forward to reading the next book "The Other Boleyn Girl" by Philippa Gregory.

We are looking forward to a family outing tomorrow at the Scottish Highland Games in Mesa. Stay tuned for pictures of men in kilts!

I'm going to pack up my bags...

2005-02-23T21:19:00.000-07:00

I don't mean to shock people by the title of my post today, but I have had that phrase in my head all day. Don't worry I'm not leaving Jonny. My 3 year old, who love music and especially mommy and daddy's music, kept saying to me in the mini-van today "Mommy, play the I'm going to pack up my bag song". I could not for the life of me think of what Miss Gemma was talking about. I scanned the entire BNL cd for clues, but to no avail. All day I just wondered what song she was talking about.

We had a nice day today. Gemma, Angus, and I headed to Arrowhead Meadow Park in Chandler for MOMS Club. I have to say Chandler has the most incredible city parks and this was another great one that we discovered today. After the park we headed up to Gemma's school to register her for preschool next year. She is going to go the preschool M-W-F from 9:00 am to 11:30 am beginning in September. She is looking forward to going to school by herself and I am looking forward to some 1:1 time with young Angus.

I finished sewing in the ends of one of the twin’s hat. Here is young Angus modeling the hat.

All afternoon I started cleaning the house. I was able to clean two bathrooms and the kid’s bedrooms. I think I might just have the whole house done by the weekend, so we can enjoy our weekend. Cleaning the house was actually not too bad. Gemma was a big help with cleaning her bathroom. She really loves to spray the cleaner bottle.

Jonny picked Gemma up for swimming lessons and Angus and I headed off for a run. Gemma is supposed to test out of her current class and then we are going to discontinue swimming lessons for now. Gemma has been going to Swim Kids for over a year now and we love her teacher Amy. Unfortunately the business is run horribly and we decided we need to leave. My main complaint was the lack of customer service, but they put their own nail in the coffin when the raised rate twice in one year. Jonny also was harassed about payment today when he brought Gemma to her lesson. It is too bad that we love Gemma’s teacher, but hate the way they run their business. I feel that if we would stay at Swim Kids we would be saying that we love the way they run their business and they actually deserve our business, but we don’t. Sorry Amy, we will miss you!!!

We had dinner when Gemma and Jonny got home and I asked Jonny what is Gemma talking about when she says “I’m going to pack up my bags song”? The answer, one of the best obscure bands I have ever heard Sonia Dada “You don’t treat me no good no more”.

Do-it-yourself Housecleaning

2005-02-22T22:42:00.000-07:00

When we moved to our new house last summer I told Jonny that I needed a cleaning lady. He laughed, but didn't argue. He thought that I should be doing it myself since I was a stay-at-home mom and had nothing better to do. I told him what would he rather have me do nurture our daughter or clean all day. I won that argument and we have had a cleaning service ever since. That is until today. I was going through our finances and I realized that it is a luxury we cannot afford after the arrival of young Angus and the mini-van to carry my young ones. I am very sad because I really loved Martha and Leticia. I am really hoping that we can have them back soon, but right now we have to watch our pennies. I have to save for knitting cruises you know! So Jonny and I have decided that we will clean the house together on a Saturday morning or afternoon. We will see how it goes...

Today was a pretty relaxing day. My MOMS Club friend Elaine and I walked to the park with the kids and it was nice. I keep meeting the same grandmas and mothers at the the park on Tuesdays and they all seem so nice. I may just make it a point to go to the park on Tuesdays from now on.

In the afternoon I emailed Jonelle from South West Trading Company and said I would like to do some test knitting for her. She said to go to their website and see the project she would like me to knit for her.

I know, nice cleavage shot, but I didn't take the picture! This is the shawl that I am test knitting.

I drove up to pick up the yarn and pattern and oh boy it looks a bit difficult. The patter starts out by casting on 308 stitches. Has anyone ever cast on that many stitches? I think the most I have ever cast on is 120 or so. This is going to be interesting. Also, if you have used SWTC Bamboo yarn, please let me know what needles you used to get the gauge. Believe it our not I have actually made 2 swatches with size 6 and 7 needles and I still can't get the 5 stitches per inch the pattern calls for. Ugh!!!

I also finished my first hat for the twins. I am going to sew the end in and take a picture and post later.