tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85992972012-01-24T09:37:10.866-07:00Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.comBlogger5001100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-58641378765838900982012-01-24T09:34:00.001-07:002012-01-24T09:37:10.876-07:00

nothing too exciting - just another hat. this one is definitely at the top of the list of favorites. i think she's tired of being my model though . . .

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-33481693103905778392012-01-12T09:15:00.004-07:002012-01-12T09:15:01.410-07:00

I'll admit it: when my 7-year-old asked me to make her a doll blanket, and I allowed her to pick the yard, I hated her choice. I thought it was ugly (truth be told). But, keeping to my word, I allowed her to purchase it, and I set out to make her a blanket for her doll.As I got going though, I realized that while it was never something I would choose, the yard was so pretty. It is fun and

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-54135313148157156642012-01-11T02:27:00.000-07:002012-01-11T02:27:01.165-07:00

See this girl? The only who almost always has some evidence of her last meal on her face? She's my crazy, artistic child, who always keeps me laughing.Yesterday morning, when I asked her what she wanted for breakfast, she replied, "just a pile of carrots." And on Saturday night, when the server at the restaurant we'd gone for dinner asked her why she didn't like her cheeseburger, she replied,

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-2268877062197642012012-01-10T08:19:00.002-07:002012-01-10T08:25:02.666-07:00

Is anyone sick of my beanies yet? I think my husband may be . . . but I'm not.Bryn wanted a cat hat. I realize now in these pictures that one of the eyes is too high - guess I'll be fixing that asap. Other than the crazy eyes, I think it turned out pretty cute. Especially considering the fact that I made up the pattern all by my self.G wanted an owl hat. There are ears on it, but you can't

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-47387387279696628782012-01-03T04:00:00.004-07:002012-01-03T04:00:07.290-07:00

In September, for our 10 year anniversary, my husband and I went to Hawaii - without kids - with some friends. For an entire week. It was bliss. Heaven. One of the best weeks of my life, and I never blogged about it. I took over 500 pictures - here are just a sampling:

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-45499456868884841902012-01-02T07:53:00.002-07:002012-01-02T08:00:19.112-07:00

I spent considerable time over the weekend (as I was sick with the flu) reading over my blog. And I realized that I missed it. So, a natural resolution for me right now would be to spend more time blogging - not just posting pictures, but actually talking about stuff.Other than that, one other thing that stood out to me was the fact that every New Years, my main resolution is about weight loss.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-80704982666199492912011-12-29T07:28:00.002-07:002011-12-29T07:38:06.384-07:00

I was lax with my picture taking this year. I only took about a dozen pictures this Christmas (not including pictures of my craft projects). Typically my family feels like they're being followed by the paparazzi because I'm taking so many pictures. I'm not sure what was wrong this year. I just wasn't feeling it. . .I did manage to get a few pics tho:I love that G has tears in her eyes in

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-31094701091748195472011-12-27T17:39:00.000-07:002011-12-27T17:41:31.828-07:00

Every girl needs a hat to match her eyes. thanks for the yarn aunt jen

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-73626699301545496442011-12-23T10:18:00.002-07:002011-12-23T10:18:00.251-07:00

Take #2 on the angry birds hats. I still don't love them - and I know they don't look exactly like the originals - but I do think they're wearable. I do have to admit that they are much cuter in person.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-40406728635819986122011-12-22T22:05:00.002-07:002011-12-22T22:15:16.062-07:00

So, I know that i used to be a better blogger. But I sorta got sick of the bloggy one-upmanship mentality where it felt like everyone was trying to prove that they were the funniest person alive, that their kids were the cutest, their husband was the hottest, and their life was the best. And I am not saying that I am above all of that - I totally fell into the "keeping up with the bloggers"

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-42724365510773080342011-12-12T12:13:00.002-07:002011-12-12T12:17:18.797-07:00

i have been busy making hats for everyone i know. i probably shouldn't post them here, as some are gifts . . . but i can't wait for christmas. i'm too excited, so i have to share them and bank on the fact that i don't think many of my family and friends even read my blog. . .

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-29699243889225746322011-11-24T23:00:00.002-07:002011-11-24T23:04:53.611-07:00

So, I found an adorable crochet hat on Pinterest. Unfortunately, the site is in Dutch (at least I think its Dutch . . .I can't read it anyway). So, I improvised. I think i want to add a cute crocheted flower on the side, but I like it. It is a little tighter than I would like - I need to figure out how to loosen the tension when I crochet. Does it surprise anyone that someone as high-strung

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-12524086683215380582011-11-18T13:19:00.004-07:002011-11-18T13:26:00.003-07:00

Pinterest is an addiction. Lest anyone think I just sit around and pin things to my board all day, I thought I would post a project I completed, inspired by one that I found on that site: a fun christmas ornament wreathAnd a silly insect-girl.I raided the dollar store, and $10 dollars later, I had my supplies.I made a hanger out of crafting wire, and wrapped the styrofoam in green garland. I

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-72103051350570169182011-10-22T10:48:00.002-07:002011-10-22T10:57:54.492-07:00

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-18893727293248884562011-09-30T11:01:00.004-07:002011-09-30T11:06:08.191-07:00

Yes, I'm pretty much MIA in the blogging world. I am around, and recently returned from a trip to Hawaii. Here's a teaser:I do plan a real post (or series of posts) hopefully soon. Hawaii is magical.I also completed my first triathalon. It was "just" a sprint, but I ROCKED it, and I'm pretty darn proud. Hopefully an update on that will follow soon.Lastly, I'm starting a new diet and

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-28892249715340487022011-08-24T20:32:00.002-07:002011-08-24T20:36:09.366-07:00

Admittedly, I'm a terrible blogger. I actually have a million things I'd like to blog about, but I can't ever seem to find the words. So, instead, another photo montage of a recent girls trip south - to see a play and do some hiking in a slot canyon. Fun times:

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-80815677049885114042011-05-01T10:07:00.004-07:002011-05-01T10:13:59.915-07:00

I can't believe I have a seven year-old. She is so big and so grown up. She really is such a good girl - she's polite, obedient, and really tries hard to always do her best. She's reading way above her grade level, and is great at math too. She shows a strong interest in geography, and loves to learn about different people and places. She's also athletic - right now she is in precompetition

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-34472306719535504222011-04-29T07:53:00.003-07:002011-04-29T07:59:14.561-07:00

Just photos:

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-16352296690410593752011-04-22T07:15:00.001-07:002011-04-22T07:22:17.036-07:00

I took almost 250 pictures in Boston. This is only a very small percentage:

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-91800709506659517622011-04-19T03:04:00.002-07:002011-04-19T03:04:00.066-07:00

Is it just my kids, or is it a common thing that the knees of jeans wear out long before they grow out of the pants? Maybe its some conspiracy that clothing companies have figured out to keep us buying. . .At any rate, it seems I have a plethora of holey-kneed jeans. So, I decided to try and make a cute ruffled skirt with a pair of my favorites.I cut off the legs, just below the pockets and I

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-16594231951085082072011-04-18T03:23:00.000-07:002011-04-18T03:23:00.636-07:00

I've been wanting a fun, spring table runner. I pieced this one together and machine quilted it along the seams (I think there's a technical name for that . . .) I like how it turned out, but I decided this one is going to be a gift for my mom. I had originally planned to give it to her for Mother's Day, but I'm thinking it would look good for Easter. So, its a "thank you" gift for watching

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-23815674399638627212011-04-16T03:50:00.005-07:002011-04-16T04:06:04.061-07:00

Last week I had the opportunity to travel to Boston for my job. After the hotel was book, I pulled it up on google maps, and saw it was less than a mile from Fenway. Then, I pulled up the Red Sox schedule and saw they were playing the Yankees while I was there. And since it was my husbands birthday that same week, (and since he is a HUGE baseball fan) I knew the perfect gift: he joined me in

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-13943119887573203372011-04-13T00:03:00.003-07:002011-04-13T00:03:00.281-07:00

I have a seemingly endless supply of cardigans. While I do like them - they are the staple of my wardrobe - they do get boring. Hence, another refashion.This time, I started with an old pink cardy. This particular one was a hand-me-down from my mother. She grew tired of it, passed it along, and now I'm tired of it too. But, its still in good shape and a shame to get rid of.So . . .I started

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-17760176883525918612011-04-10T01:04:00.005-07:002011-04-10T01:04:00.787-07:00

I came across this tutorial for a braided rag rug. Hers is gorgeous, and I decided that I wanted one too. I have a bucket full of scraps - surely I had enough.Overall, I'm happy with how mine turned out (I seem to say that a lot . . .). I didn't have a piece large enough to sew it onto, so I just sewed it together with nothing on the bottom. Two problems:1) the edges curled, not unlike a

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-90261043064841263192011-04-08T03:05:00.000-07:002011-04-08T03:05:00.165-07:00

I think my husband may be right - I just may have some hoarding tendencies. But, why throw anything away when you can make a pretty pincushion with a scrap of paisley, small circle of felt, and some stuffing from an old pillow.Or a pretty little flower hair clip from some scraps left over from a skirt.I do throw out the stuff that I will honestly never use. I promise.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-22727376492370225342011-04-06T02:58:00.000-07:002011-04-06T02:58:00.292-07:00

A few weeks ago, my sister told me she'd cleaned out her closet, and had 4 bags for the thrift store. I asked if she minded if I went through them first, and of course she said "YES". Yipee. I love thrifting - and free thrifting is the best. I ended up with some gems - in fact, I took about 25% of her stuff. My husband thinks I'm becoming a hoarder. . . no comment on that . . .One of my

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-50898312454833584132011-04-04T02:52:00.000-07:002011-04-04T02:52:00.209-07:00

I've been wanting a maxi skirt for awhile - that's a fashion trend that I can wear. So, the other day when I was home with a (kinda) sick daughter, I decided to throw one out. I roughly followed this tutorial, but I kinda did my own thing too. I wanted a long skirt, with only one ruffle at the bottom - and I wanted some embellishment. Overall, I'm pleased with how it turned out. I think it

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-13230957961938564292011-04-03T07:16:00.002-07:002011-04-03T07:20:27.421-07:00

Yesterday it was 70 degrees outside. We had two soccer games, and I got a little bit of sun on my nose. All night, I heard the wind howl, and the sound of (what I thought was) rain on the roof. This morning, I woke up to this:A beautiful, marshmallow-y world of fluffy snow. Granted it is April - and my daffodils are all out of the ground - but really, the bulbs get snowed on at least once

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-26594016474838604082011-04-02T09:08:00.003-07:002011-04-02T09:08:00.316-07:00

A quick craft I threw together on Saturday as a thank-you gift to my dad. And because he's been diagnosed with cancer - he's going in for surgery this week, and he loves this picture. Every summer he takes my girls fishing, and this picture from last year was his favorite. He'd been asking me to blow it up, but I'd taken it on my cell phone, which was lost shortly after the picture was taken.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-61290877818560738672011-03-30T08:59:00.002-07:002011-03-30T08:59:00.289-07:00

I booked non-refundable tickets to Hawaii this week. In celebration, I decided to make me something to wear that felt like the islands. I started with two more sadly gray/formerly white items: a blouse that I got years ago at the Gap, and loved so much I couldn't bear to throw it out. . . besides the fact it isn't even white any more; and an old tee.I choose a lovely blue - Bahama Blue - from

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-27736266921531739782011-03-29T01:13:00.002-07:002011-03-29T01:13:00.672-07:00

Have you been reading my blog (the 5 of you who still actually read . . .) and thought it ironic that the title is Marathon Mom, yet I NEVER talk about running anymore? Well . . . I do still run. I guess its just become a regular part of my routine, so it hardly seems noteworthy.Until this weekend, when I got injured. Developed an injury I suppose - it really isn't something that happened all

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-90347688472885585142011-03-28T07:35:00.003-07:002011-03-28T07:40:25.441-07:00

This girl Bryn. . . she's a funny kid. The way she phrases things cracks me up. The other day, she frantically ran to me to say "Mom! My light ran out." (translation: her light burned out)Yesterday, she had a bit of a tummy bug. Very concerned, she told me: "There is something wrong. When I go potty, it comes out all squishy and wet." (translation: she had diarrhea)Yep - I told another

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-31294563199100461112011-03-27T01:20:00.000-07:002011-03-27T01:20:00.107-07:00

Another clothing refashion attempt. I actually made this a couple of weeks ago, but am only now getting to posting it. I'm pretty proud of myself, and every time I've worn it (three times . . . but who's counting??) I get tons of compliments. I started with an old short-sleeved cardigan and old tank top. There really wasn't anything wrong with either of them, other than the fact that I have a

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-81049531803439223772011-03-24T05:11:00.001-07:002011-03-24T05:11:01.454-07:00

I made this skirt from a pattern. I cannot follow a pattern to save my life. It was difficult, and I don't love how it turned out. It doesn't help, that I think its too much black. It does look good on the hanger tho. . .I do like the sash.G took this picture too. She's nice to help out, but I think I need to teach her about the zoom.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-69028705002858667732011-03-22T08:52:00.000-07:002011-03-22T08:52:00.172-07:00

The cutest 6 year old, with her randomly missing teeth. I don't think she'll be eating any apples for awhile.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-51039304561905058702011-03-21T03:46:00.001-07:002011-03-21T03:46:00.354-07:00

I should have taken a picture of the before. But here's the after (G took the picture for me):I refashioned a shirt for me from an old shirt of my husband's. Overall, I'm pretty happy with it - other than the fact that I wish it hung better around my breasts. But, it was my first try at shirring, and I love it. I'm definitely going to be shirring more. Much more.I'm kind of hooked on

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-91641379790175346452011-03-17T01:13:00.004-07:002011-03-17T01:13:00.202-07:00

Our trip to CaliforniaFirst, the beach:It was a beautiful dayAnd then, of course, Disneyland. The happiest place on earth. dammit.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-85948493661148229322011-03-15T21:09:00.002-07:002011-03-15T21:13:09.419-07:00

Total weight loss: 3.4 poundsI know its much more than week 6. I've missed a couple of weeks. I was in California last week, and that is my excuse (at least for last week). It too seems pointless to post such measly numbers. I know that I should be happy - that a loss is a loss - but it is discouraging when I still have 15.6 pounds to lose. At this rate, it will be over a year until I reach

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-82042499169726244732011-03-13T09:23:00.003-07:002011-04-17T15:12:57.179-07:00

After my success last week, I decided to give sewing another try (in fact, I've been working on a couple of projects . . . more to follow) But for today, another finished skirt and headband. I can't take credit. The skirt came from: this tutorial and the headband from here. And if I hadn't accidentally sewn the skirt together wrong TWICE (that is what I get for trying to sew at midnight), it

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-42934843539177016792011-02-27T10:02:00.002-07:002011-02-27T10:10:51.684-07:00

I've never sewed before in my life - unless you count a couple of quick projects with my mom when I was younger. Years ago (probably about 20) my dad gave me a sewing machine. Until last week, it had been sitting in my basement gathering dust. For some reason, I decided to bring it out, dust it off, and try making something.I'll be honest, I didn't have high hopes. In fact, I was expecting to

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-52835719203563448532011-02-21T08:43:00.000-07:002011-02-21T08:43:00.521-07:00

Week 5 weight loss: 2.0Total weight loss: 3.4So, I've skipped a couple weeks. It isn't that I haven't weighed in, its just that I can't ever seem time to post any more. I actually weighed on Sunday too - after 2 days of birthday debauchery, I knew it wouldn't be pretty. So, I'm counting Sunday's weight.Things have been ok. I'm kind of reaching the point in my "journey" where I am not seeing

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-28671913603749676962011-02-19T13:33:00.002-07:002011-02-19T13:46:16.992-07:00

Bryn turns 5 tomorrow, and we celebrated today with a "fancy" party. The girls showed up in their fanciest clothes - we did manicures, makeovers, and made headbands. I've never seen such a quiet and well-behaved group of 5 year-olds. I think because the looked like princesses, they had to act like them too.Bryn is the sweetest girl. And she's funny too (and knows it). She wants everyone to

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-83358395875608933752011-01-31T11:44:00.002-07:002011-01-31T11:53:31.938-07:00

Weight loss this week: 3.0 poundsTotal weight loss: 1.4 poundsThat's right: 1.4 pounds lost in three weeks. Pretty dismal, although I do think that I maybe would have lost more, except that my daughter was in the hospital this weekend. I drank lots of diet soda, and ate whatever I could - so, all things considered, I am glad at least for a loss.What went wrong:I actually had a great week

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-36591547026669320702011-01-24T06:14:00.002-07:002011-01-24T06:20:36.104-07:00

Weight gain this week: 2.8 poundsTotal weight gain: 1.6 poundsYes - that is right. My second week's weigh-in netted a 2.8 pound GAIN since last week. I am currently entertaining a visit from my auntie flo - maybe its water weight? I can hope. I didn't think I did that bad this week.What went wrong:I did cheat twice. Tuesday night I went to Mimi's Cafe - I ordered the 500 calorie mahi mahi,

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-18842970022457602212011-01-18T03:53:00.003-07:002011-03-26T20:46:31.829-07:00

When ever people ask me what to buy my kids for gifts, I'm at a loss. They really don't play with toys. They're not much into video games. And they do love to read, but we already have one million books. My answer is usually art supplies. They are constantly coloring, drawing, cutting, gluing, painting, or in some other way creating. The art supplies need constant replenishment. So, this

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-61945376358271330892011-01-17T15:39:00.003-07:002011-01-17T15:51:11.643-07:00

Week one: 1.2 pounds weight lossTotal weight loss: 1.2 poundsOne week down, too many to count to go . . .This week went pretty well. Overall, I think it was a success. I'll admit it: I'm not perfect. Nor do I have the world's best will power. But, a pound a week is some loss - and I'll take it. I have about 36 weeks, so at this rate, I'll do it ;).What went wrong this week:I cheated a

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-33983135781286122162011-01-11T08:25:00.002-07:002011-01-11T08:34:55.386-07:00

Its a new year, but I have the same-ole resolution as always: to lose weight. Only this time I'm serious . . . ya right? I think we've all heard that before . . . But I really am. Because this year is my 10 year anniversary and I'm going to HAWAII. Can you tell I'm excited? I've never been there before, and I CAN. NOT. WAIT. Seriously. But, I want to be comfortable. I want to look good

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-61399910690841412542010-12-20T22:05:00.000-07:002010-12-20T22:05:00.410-07:00

In the past 2 weeks, my family has been to the doctor 5 times: we've had 3 cases of influenza, 2 strep throats, and one badly broken ankle. (before you feel sorry for me, know that I've lost 6 pounds in the month of December. Normally, I would probably have gained 6, so I am counting that as a net loss of 12 pounds. Spending a week on my death bed does have its benefit) Needless to say, I'm

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-39167428577375224062010-12-13T03:37:00.004-07:002010-12-13T03:37:00.119-07:00

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-11528297224343140642010-12-12T15:28:00.004-07:002011-03-13T09:30:22.348-07:00

I'm not an artsy/crafty person, except during the holidays. Once December hits, I break it all out - trying to make up for a year of being boring. My kids love crafts, so I try to make them part of our holiday traditions. It starts with the trimming of the tree (my least favorite):After the ornaments are on, we always paint something new.I also made the girls hair bows. I did them late at

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-30243420906861039492010-11-29T10:16:00.004-07:002010-11-29T10:25:23.829-07:00

This is my grandma's granola recipe. I stole it from her - hope she doesn't mind that I'm sharing it with all of cyberspace ;). I don't have a picture to go along with this - you'll just have to use your imagination. But really, all granola looks the same, right? This recipe is VERY healthy. Extremely healthy. And I think tasty as well. I eat it every morning, with kefir poured over the

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-38600020263727549032010-10-25T00:05:00.002-07:002010-10-25T00:05:00.376-07:00

The other day, Bryn and I were riding in the car. Out of nowhere, she says to me:"I feel bad for the kids in Haiti. Don't you mom?""Yes," I said, trying not to smile. "What made you think of that?""I don't know," she said. "But I want to do something for them.""OK. Like what?""I want to give them shoes, and toys, and things they don't have. Things they lost in the eart-cake.""That is nice,"

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-33420803146378889852010-10-23T02:45:00.001-07:002010-10-22T12:00:37.624-07:00

Its a lazy Saturday afternoon. Nothing to do, other than watch college football. So, we decided to make cupcakes, lest you think, after that last post, that I'm super-duper healthy (I really only eat all that veggie soup, so I can justify dessert). Only, I didn't have a cake mix in the pantry. Luckily, allrecipes.com has always been a good stand-by for easy recipes. I picked this Chocolate

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-44245294594927349162010-10-22T11:37:00.006-07:002010-10-22T11:48:28.581-07:00

What do you do on a gray October day? You make soup, silly! Delicious, healthy, vegetable soup. Its not exactly vegetarian, because it does have chicken broth. But, it is only about 100 calories a bowl, and delish! I have actually been making it every Friday, and eating it all week. I'm kind of addicted, truth be told.So, if you want to make some of this delish, addicting, veggie soup for

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-12457267360496908392010-09-26T14:12:00.004-07:002010-09-26T14:43:45.430-07:00

**These pictures are out of order, and I GIVE UP trying to make them cooperate.I have a love/hate relationship with running. Really, I mostly hate it. But, I put up with it so that I can enjoy those few wonderful runs. A couple of weeks ago, I had one of those experiences where all the running paid off. I was able to compete in the Red Rock Relay, a 186 mile, self-supported, 12-person relay

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-3794102092053823782010-08-05T15:35:00.001-07:002010-08-05T15:35:16.607-07:00

Its been a long time coming, but I'm going private. I need a place to vent my private inner-most thoughts without worrying about it all being out there. I plan to lock it all down in one week: Thursday Aug 12. If you want an invite, feel free to send me one at christie (dot) hutchings (at) gmail (dot) com. Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-52707963241640527562010-07-03T08:32:00.002-07:002010-07-03T08:32:00.363-07:00

Two posts in two days. I can't believe it myself. Just getting caught up - and this one is just three weeks old. Brynlee had her first ever dance recital. And what a beautiful dancer she is. Brynlee is an expressive, artistic, free-spirited girl. She LOVES to dance. And, of course I'm a bit biased being her mom and all, but I think she shows talent.She's front and center, and notice how the

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-22587624220518269122010-07-02T08:01:00.004-07:002010-07-02T08:31:41.223-07:00

This lucky girl got to turn six in the "Happiest Place on Earth". And it was a surprise. She had no idea that was where we were headed.I just can't believe I have a six year old. She is so smart, and so grown up. She recently finished kindergarten, and in every category she was above grade level. She's kind, obedient, and so much fun to be around. I couldn't ask for a better daughter.We

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-12426440332959174722010-06-29T05:17:00.003-07:002010-06-29T05:23:13.903-07:00

My poor neglected blog . . . I can't decide whether to try and catch up, or just move on. I miss blogging - it is really the only journal that I keep. But the past year of my life has been the hardest ever. There are things going on that I cannot being to publish for all of cyberspace - difficult things, extremely personal things. Its made it difficult to blog because its far too personal.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-70627842253083907122010-04-23T19:03:00.002-07:002010-04-23T19:09:33.044-07:00

Spring has arrived, and my garden is alive. Despite the return of my awful allergies, I'm loving my flowers.Sunny yellow daffodilsYes, this is a tulipMy dad gave me 50 hyacynth bulbs last year - I plan to buy more this fall. My entire front yard smells so good.Forsythia - it wouldn't be spring without it.Bleeding heart - my favorite.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-88755545173069315382010-03-01T01:28:00.001-07:002010-03-01T01:28:00.376-07:00

I think my blog is becoming nothing more than a glorified photo album. Some day I'll post some actual words. But until that day, here's some pics of a fun day snowshoeing with the family.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-32604328048345613802010-02-27T21:15:00.004-07:002010-02-27T21:24:00.882-07:00

Last weekend was Brynlee's birthday. What a sad state my blog is in, to think it took me a week to update her birthday. Even now, I wonder what there is to say, other than how much I love her. And how big and bright she is. She can even (almost) write her name:She wanted an ice cream cake - we just did a small one, since she shares her birthday with Grandpa, and there were lots of other

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-14147667964024503222010-02-17T02:20:00.002-07:002010-02-17T02:20:00.525-07:00

Recently, we've experienced two big milestones in our family. Actually, one has nothing to do with the other, but I'm lumping them together in this post.The first is regarding Bryn - she's now an official ballerina. In January, she started taking ballet, and she's amazing. Considering the fact that she's been walking on her toes since she started walking, I think its safe to call her a "

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-41492121859170332492010-02-16T02:14:00.000-07:002010-02-16T02:14:00.278-07:00

I know this will probably make everyone insanely jealous, but I got me some Bumpits for Valentine's Day. Ok, maybe they weren't a "for real" gift (kinda like the Snuggy I got for my birthday), but a gift they were nonetheless. And we used them to create beautiful hairstyles. Check it out:

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-75848971830220815242010-01-07T10:24:00.004-07:002011-03-15T21:33:56.778-07:00

I think voice mail is pointless - because I have caller ID, if someone calls me I just call them back. I figure that if they called me, they want to talk. I'm likely going to be calling them anyway, so why waste the time with listening to voice mail. Its rare that I actually even listen to a voice mail immediately after it was left on my phone. Pretty much the only time I listen to a voice

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-68360820794125555002010-01-01T02:24:00.002-07:002010-01-01T02:24:00.155-07:00

Every New Year, I make pretty much the same resolutions. What does that say about me? That I have absolutely no follow-through. Or maybe that I resolve to do too many things? At any rate, I'm going to simplify my life in 2010 (but that isn't necessarily a resolution). Its a fact. And in so doing, I'm only making one resolution: I'm getting my body backI'm going to get my consumption of

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-70683067074977488392009-12-31T13:21:00.006-07:002009-12-31T14:21:32.713-07:00

I didn't do Christmas cards this year. But, really, who am I kidding? I never do Christmas cards. I at least try and do some type of "virtual" card though - something. But not this year. So, in a lame attempt to catch people up on our lives, here's the highlights of 2009. My favorite thing about each month:JanuaryJanuary was cold and snowy. On New Years Day, we decided to go sledding as a

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-30566132970910813242009-12-18T22:52:00.003-07:002009-12-18T23:06:58.968-07:00

Ben and I decided it would be fun to take the kids downtown to ice skate. We decided to go to the Gallivan Center, an outdoor venue in the middle of downtown. Knowing it was going to be cold, we were prepared: gloves, hats, scarves, and even snow pants for the girls. We made the trek through rush-hour/christmas traffic, and luckily found parking right across the street. As we began to unload

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-61278167001330397822009-12-16T11:41:00.007-07:002011-03-15T21:25:14.376-07:00

Just for this week, I'm a stay at home mom. Next week, I have to go back to work. But this week, its all about fun and frolic. Its only Wednesday morning, and check out what we've done already:Painted Christmas ornamentsMy laundry is caught up (usually there is a large pile of clothing in this area)We've played dress-upDecorated cookies inspired by the Pioneer WomanMade our annual gingerbread

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-85071152539219441542009-12-03T06:21:00.003-07:002009-12-09T06:06:28.931-07:00

Ok - so maybe it isn't such a secret, because I'm posting it for all the world-wide-web to see. But I do have a skeleton in my closet. Actually, it isn't much of a skeleton: its more of a mound of unwashed laundry. So deep in fact, that there are summer clothes at the bottom. And its clearly winter clothes weather.Just in case you don't believe me, here's proof from inside my closet:Yes,

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-88801133191049120042009-11-30T17:45:00.004-07:002009-11-30T18:20:31.716-07:00

I'll admit it: I'm a sucker for cute jeans. Especially the cute, trendy ones, that cost way more than they're worth. But, I'm also frugal (read: cheap), thus I refuse to pay full price. In fact, its rare that I'll actually pay more than $40 for a pair of jeans. I'm pretty good at scoring a bargain. In fact, I recently found a pair of $240 Diesel jeans for only $35. That was a total

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-56641386290372816812009-10-30T11:46:00.005-07:002009-10-30T12:05:38.616-07:00

Here's some of what we've been doing for the past 4 months:We took a vacation to Jackson, Wyoming - riding the alpine slides.and visiting Grand Teton National Park.G caught her first fish.The girls were in their first gymnastics recital.They loved it.G started school.She also played soccer.Bryn got a haircut.Our yard produced lots of fresh food - especially Roma tomatoes. We made homemade salsa

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-38448237623680358112009-10-30T11:44:00.002-07:002009-10-30T11:46:27.660-07:00

I'm a big fat slacker. I haven't blogged since July - FOUR months. Its not necessarily because of slacking though - my life has been CRAZY (to say the least), and something had to go. And I also used to be able to post at work, and I can't anymore. So that significantly has reduced my blogging time - for both posting and keeping up with my friends.I am on Facebook though, so if you want to be

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-50076892293423871412009-07-14T01:37:00.001-07:002009-07-14T01:37:00.796-07:00

I had good intentions of taking my camera with us for our July 4th activities: parade, waterpark, bbq, and fireworks. It was a busy day. And all I have to show for it (photographically speaking) are a few pics of the girls in the morning before we left:

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-11719236717337418492009-07-11T11:54:00.003-07:002009-07-12T11:36:34.034-07:00

I know I haven't been around much. My blogging has kind of ebbed and flowed - I suppose I'm ebbing right now. I have had a lot of things going on - most of them not so good. I think that has maybe dampened my desire to blog. I've been finding a lot of peace and stress reduction in my garden. And its blooming nicely right now.Lots of lilies and daylilies:The orange ones are my favorite.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-7375237502852549122009-06-30T17:27:00.003-07:002009-06-30T17:34:24.376-07:00

The entire month of June has pretty much sucked. I'm tempted to say that the entire month has been overall shitty, but this is a family blog. (wait . . . ) To say that I'm excited to change the calendar to July tomorrow would be an understatement. I cannot wait. (even if I do hate the hot weather)Today was another bad day. As I was driving home, I couldn't help but to wallow in my self-pity.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-49959583664880633192009-06-18T07:38:00.002-07:002009-06-18T07:38:00.378-07:00

Please ignore my messy house:

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-43472962072030953842009-06-15T19:33:00.003-07:002009-06-15T19:37:40.808-07:00

Am I just being over protective, or does this scare the crap out of anyone else?

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-79044115856028707022009-06-12T01:04:00.003-07:002009-06-12T01:04:00.575-07:00

Lest anyone be offended, let me first clarify that I am placing the "WT" moniker upon myself. And it does fit - let me tell you how well:Last Saturday night, as a family we went to the Bluffdale Town Days demolition derby. Now, if you've never been to a demolition derby, you really should go. Where else can you eat all the deep fried junk food that you can fit in your beer belly, all while

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-49828197042410484432009-06-10T20:48:00.002-07:002009-06-10T21:01:07.855-07:00

I'm pretty sure its June 10. At least that is what the calendar said today. But pretty much only the calendar knows that is what today is. Mother Nature must have missed the memo. Driving home from work today, the car told me outside temperature was only 56 degrees (yes, Fahrenheit). And when I got home, I saw this:and this:and this:Piles of snow? Actually, no. Piles of HAIL! A good 2 hours

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-45475986363958392182009-06-03T05:57:00.002-07:002009-06-03T05:57:00.646-07:00

I am a lover of pancakes. One may even call me a pancake connoisseur. My love began with my grandpa. He and my grandma used to own a bed and breakfast - a beautiful Victorian mansion on a Civil War battlefield. It was a wonderful place to visit as a child. I have such fond memories of spending time there, but my favorite memory is of my grandfather's breakfasts. He would always have the

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-83776495226524575222009-06-01T17:44:00.007-07:002009-06-01T17:57:27.509-07:00

Last fall, I was browsing the clearance nursery stock. I came across a sickly, half dead peony plant for only $1. Not one to pass up a bargain, I purchased it. I'll be honest - I wasn't expecting much. But, I figured that I could gamble a dollar. I knew just where I was going to plant it - in the vacant spot adjacent to my garage. I brought it home, and immediately got to planting.This

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-64006851618727069252009-05-26T20:07:00.006-07:002009-05-27T05:12:00.567-07:00

Last weekend, some of my extended family visited from Maryland, Michigan, Colorado and Arizona - a mini-family reunion. We gathered because it would have been my grandfather's birthday - our first without him. And since it was so close to memorial day, it only made sense. It has always been important to me that my kids know their extended family, but its isn't so simple when most of them live

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-3170213510477129272009-05-23T15:29:00.004-07:002009-05-23T15:48:25.948-07:00

Last summer we tried to take a family hike every Saturday. It didn't happen every week (more like once a month or so), but we tried. I think we're going to try harder this year. G is 100% in love with hiking, and Bryn is getting old enough to be able to keep up.Today we decided to head up to Bell's Canyon. Its a nice short hike , and perfect for the kids. It is a bit technical for a 3 and 5

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-38424005117098961132009-05-19T05:58:00.000-07:002009-05-19T05:58:00.207-07:00

So, I had LASIK surgery two weeks ago. I'd been wanting to have it done for years, but for one reason or another (money, pregnancy, the fear of having my eyes gouged out) I had procrastinated. Then, a few months ago, I had called our new eye insurance company about getting a reimbursement for my new glasses. While on the phone with me, they mentioned that they partially covered LASIK, and

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-31974509165026060662009-05-18T01:36:00.000-07:002009-05-16T07:40:11.765-07:00

I love gardening. Unlike housework, the effort that I put in yields a result that only increases (as opposed to being undone in a matter of 1.4 seconds by the tornadoes that live in my house). I love the challenge of making things grow. This year, I put a lot of "food products" into my gardens. Because of the weird shape of my yard (pentagon) and the fact that I don't get a lot of sun, I put

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-75010655520532072542009-05-15T22:13:00.006-07:002009-05-15T22:36:39.751-07:00

Ok - so I've been a bit MIA in the blog-o-sphere. Even more MIA than it seems, because my last several posts were auto scheduled (except the one about not weighing myself - and I still haven't). I probably haven't really blogged since mid-April. Definitely too long. But life has been absolutely crazy, and I've just needed a break.But I do have a lot to post, and a lot to catch up on - which I

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-67412636061085522492009-05-04T11:52:00.003-07:002009-05-04T11:52:00.977-07:00

Bryn (while wearing a Santa hat): Ho ho ho. I have a long white beard and a penis.G: That is NOT appropriate! Santa is watching.G: I think the temple is where God's daddy lives.Bryn: Look everybody! Look at my penis.(?????? she likes to put toys in her panties so she has a "bulge")Bryn: I only eat my boogers sometimes.(we've made progress)G (while looking at me after a run): You look

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-39083866488840055692009-05-01T01:34:00.002-07:002009-05-01T01:34:00.753-07:00

Ok - I'll admit it: I am OBSESSED with the scale. And its a sick obsession. Some days, I weigh myself before bed, and then again when I wake up. (and sometimes I actually GAIN weight while I sleep - explain that one) I know I'm healthy, and getting healthier. But somehow, that stupid (not so) little number on the scale means more than everything else.So, I hereby profess that, starting today

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-69390747940933883312009-04-30T01:59:00.003-07:002009-04-30T01:59:01.003-07:00

Happy birthday Sweetie. In honor of her, here are some of my favorite Gracie moments:Summer 2008 at the rodeo - she did the "mutton bustin'" where she rode a sheep - and was the only girl in the competition.Spring 2007 at Zion National Park. G established herself as a world-class hiker chick and lover of red rock.Fall of 2006 - she fully embraced her role as a big sister extraordinaire.Summer

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-9163294802878860352009-04-29T01:53:00.001-07:002009-04-29T01:53:00.870-07:00

Last weekend, I took a girls only road trip to Vegas. There were no husbands. No kids. No obligations. Only rest and relaxation. It was just what I needed.There were pedicures (not sure why he's wearing that mask. I swear my feet were clean and stink-free).There was plenty of eating.And dinners with friends (in places where there are no high-chairs).Life on the road is easy and fun.And in

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-21796117967551328262009-04-28T01:10:00.002-07:002009-04-28T01:10:00.550-07:00

. . . and/or the double chin . . .I'm working on keeping unattractive pictures. Here's some that prove they're not all deleted.

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-6202158005618284052009-04-22T01:17:00.002-07:002009-04-22T01:17:00.508-07:00

At our house, Monday night is Family Night. For FHE, we do not schedule any other activities unless it is family time, and we dedicate the entire night to spending time as a family. This past Monday, we decided to take advantage of the warm weather, and to work on our family goal to become more "fit" - so we headed down to the Jordan River Parkway Trail. The girls took their bikes, and I laced

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-4209029479795250842009-04-21T02:09:00.004-07:002009-04-21T02:09:00.597-07:00

Have you ever wondered why you never see pictures of me on my blog? Well, in case you have, let me tell you why: I hate pictures of myself.Overall, I'm a confident person. I know that I am an intelligent person. I do my best to be kind, honest and good. I am a good mother and wife, a good employee, and hopefully a good friend. I also know what I am not: thin, beautiful, attractive. And

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-5812973870040966002009-04-19T19:32:00.002-07:002009-04-19T19:44:51.766-07:00

Lately I've been working on being more positive with my kids. I'm not necessarily negative, but I am a perfectionist. And I tend to demand perfection from my kids as well. I also want them to grow up as confident individuals, so I've been making a concerted effort to note the positives in all they do, so they don't grow up thinking that they cannot please me.For example, the other day I asked

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-22156614729920430342009-04-12T21:14:00.005-07:002009-04-13T04:33:23.589-07:00

Pictures from Easter weekend:I think that people dressed as the Easter Bunny are generally pretty creepy, but the girls didn't seem to mind.Saturday morning we took the girls to Wheeler Farm for an Easter festival. It was chilly and raining a bit, but the girls still had fun.After the festival, we headed to Grandma's house to dye some eggs. The kids had so much fun, that we colored 3 dozen eggs!

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-22345137343704924932009-04-10T22:29:00.002-07:002009-04-10T22:41:40.571-07:00

The girls and I walked into the house this afternoon, after a fun-filled morning of gymnastics and lunch with friends. Outside, there was a warm spring breeze, and the air smelled of spring. But walking into the house, the air felt stale and heavy. I'll admit that I've gotten behind in housework lately, and (I'm embarrassed to admit that) my house SMELLED dirty. It was such a contrast to the

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-78617654218763621712009-04-08T05:05:00.002-07:002009-04-08T05:17:21.986-07:00

I'm not talking about his economic "reform".Nor am I talking about his foreign policy.No - what I'm talking about is his ability to fill out an NCAA men's March Madness bracket.Let me explain . . .Just as he does every year, my brother-in-law does a family "March Madness" tournament, where we all fill out our brackets. Only this year, I didn't get the email to join the group until about an hour

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-87055794809040017062009-04-02T09:29:00.000-07:002009-04-02T09:49:20.061-07:00

My girls learned about April Fool's Day yesterday at daycare. They came home armed with plans to fool me (their not-so-gullible mommy). G was so excited though, that she couldn't wait to pull her prank. While in the bath, we had the following conversation:G: Mommy, do you know what today is. .Me: Yes I do sweetie, it is April Fool's Day.G: I am going to trick you tonight.Me: You are? What

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8599297.post-57023232894636168502009-04-01T07:28:00.000-07:002009-04-01T07:57:25.864-07:00

I think that I established the fact last year that I am a huge American Idol fan. It is funny too, because I am not the biggest TV fan. But I never miss Idol.This season, I really only have one contestant that I love. Of course, Megan Joy is fun to watch - because she is the hometown girl and a total trainwreck (whick is too bad, because I think her voice is very original and she's gorgeous).

Christiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13409767497696978361noreply@blogger.com9