Garden of Edin

heart movie night

2012-02-02T18:04:00.001-08:00

What month is it?

2012-01-31T10:19:00.000-08:00

I feel guilty for posting only youtube vids the past few weeks, and they weren’t even mine, ha! So here’s a little update on what’s happening around here lately.

Let’s see, it’s been a very lame winter. I miss all of the snow play so I am not thrilled about it. (Jacob doesn’t mind because his company makes extra money on half of their contracts either way, snow or not.) Gwen and I did get out skating once at the neighbors’. It was so perfect and picturesque, we met neighbors we had never met before, played a very spirited hockey game, I got in a few spins and jumps. Gwen watched from the sidelines, not quite ready for the intensity of hockey, but she did improve and gain confidence during the few hours we were there.

Gwen joined CheerCats, Whitmore Lake’s grade-school cheerleading class/team. A flyer came home from school and she was jumping up and down about it. The riding lessons are pretty spread out (every other week) and only on Sundays, so including one more weekly activity was okay with me. Cheer class is Wednesdays right after school so also easy for me, I just have to get there to pick her up (and I don't have to bring Emmett along with me!). She’s been enjoying it, but doesn’t ever want to practice with me and is now feeling very nervous about tonight’s first game. Hmm. They cheer at high school bball games and wear actual little uniforms. I’m pretty excited. Glad there will be 23 other girls out there with her and it's all just for fun.

Emmett is almost three now. Can’t believe it. He’s super funny. This morning said he didn’t want to go to Miss Jen’s, he wanted to go to Superman’s house. Of course, he wasn’t trying to be funny, he was very serious. He and Gwen have had more moments of sibling bliss lately, but he also has developed a nice, loud younger brother squeal as soon as she provokes him. I'm getting numb to it at home, out in public it’s rather shocking. Geesh.

Emmett is also into changing his clothes and/or putting on costumes. At least 4-5 outfit changes each day (weekend day anyway, Jen is lucky he has no options with her). I am constantly putting his clothes back in the drawer. They barely get folded these days, what’s the point?

We’ve had some good progress with potty training in the last week or so. He’s willing. Finally. He goes w/o a diaper in the evenings and on the weekend and he’s told us he had to go and succeeded in going on the potty multiple times now. Phew. I thought we were going to have a 4-yr-old in diapers. I think this photo of Spiderman really inspired him.

And me, I really should be getting back to work but I’ll dish a little more. My old typography teacher, mentor at UMMA for my college design internship, passed along my name to the folks at the art school who were looking for a sub to take over an intro design class. It’s an introductory course where the students try all sorts of mediums; photography, color, design, painting, etc. 3 weeks of each. I’m filling in for one of those sections. I'm teaching basic composition; the students have to work within a 10-inch square and represent words through lines and dots. The most interesting, most professor-ish time is when I'm leading the critiques. Day 1 went really well and I enjoyed it quite a bit.

There really is a lot more I could blab about, but I’ll save it. I’m behind on photos too. Here are the first few weeks of January. Until next time.

This is the one I need to work on!

2012-01-26T18:46:00.000-08:00

Emmett’s birthday is in a month and he’s on a big dinosaur kick (or Spiderman) (or baseball....maybe cupcakes)!

making a fairy cake

2012-01-21T14:24:00.000-08:00

New Year’s Eve

2012-01-08T17:35:00.000-08:00

Reyburn’s were in Michigan for the holidays, and because we wanted to see everyone (including all the adorable pee wees) we decided to have the gathering at our place. It was a potluck dinner & dessert, followed by tons of catching up, and playing, jumping on the bed, jamming on the guitar, a pseudo ball drop and dance party around 8 pm. So much fun, I loved it all. Plus, the Reyburn’s slept over so we did make it until midnight with the girls and had fun the next day lounging around and enjoying the morning with those guys. Jacob and DJ took the kids on a walk outside, while Cherie and I sipped coffee, chatted, and baby Max slept in my arms. Lovely start to 2012.

My photos here...

such a fun time of year

2011-12-31T07:49:00.000-08:00

If you’d like to slow it down, here’s a link to the album.

night out!

2011-12-29T17:33:00.000-08:00

celebrating jen's bday, lots o' fun, email me if you want to see more pics...

thankgiving, football, concolor firs, cuteness

2011-12-17T07:04:00.000-08:00

{ a few photos }

Latest Loves

2011-12-05T19:31:00.001-08:00

I can’t believe I haven’t posted in over a month. Geesh! I actually don’t have much time now... I need to sleep too... but I did update the look a bit. And, I’ll share a few of my latest loves just for fun...

Q
I do love my job and the small design studio I work for called Q. It’s been extra sweet this past month because we celebrated our 30-yr anniversary (I’ve been there for almost 12!). I helped to put together a few fun promo projects, plan the party, and then host and celebrate with so many great people. Our retreat was the following day at a lake house in Chelsea. More togetherness, good fun (besides my hangover)! Party post here...

Instagram
I know I’ve mentioned this before, but I’m just starting to expand my feed and I’m loving being connected with folks here. My photo stream...

Pinterest
Most of you are pinning now! So wonderful for inspiration and sharing/bookmarking things visually. And like Instagram, a fun way to see what your friends are up to. My pins...

The Goat Rodeo Sessions
Crazy name. Gorgeous album of bluegrass/classical music. Yo Yo Ma, Chris Thile, and others. I’m in love. Great morning music at work. Opening song...

Gnomes
Gnomeo & Juliet is on Netflix now. What a great movie! Perfect CG, visually a treat, clever writing, fun music, plus gnomes are the cutest. Entertaining website too...

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Muffin Mix
So good. Try it.

I am very far from being a gourmet chef these days...

2011-11-09T17:31:00.000-08:00

But I just typed up this recipe for Kele, so thought I might as well share here. This is a great (Weight Watchers) soup that Lynne shared with me. Easy to make and is usually a hit with the whole family.

2-3 cups chicken breasts* cut up

(Lynne's notation..but lately I've used the boneless wings from the large bags in Meijer and they are mighty tasty)

One 13oz can chicken broth

One 13 or 14oz can refried beans

One 14oz jar salsa (to your taste)

One 13oz can black beans, drained and rinsed

One 13oz. can corn (with juice)

Shredded Mexican mix cheese

Tortilla chips or strips

Put 1 Tbl oil in large/deep pan and cook chicken. About 3-5 minutes, on medium heat. Set this aside in bowl. Put the broth in the pan, add the refried beans, blend and heat on medium temp. Once fully blended, add the salsa, black beans, corn and chicken. Bring just to a boil. Then turn heat to low and simmer 20 minutes. Serve with shredded cheese and tortilla chips.

*Canned chicken works too, of course :)

my daughter is super tough

2011-11-07T09:38:00.001-08:00

Fast & Furious Fall!

2011-11-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

We’ve certainly packed it in this fall. The weekend after Gwen’s birthday party, I decided I just couldn’t miss my friend Marissa’s wedding in Lake Tahoe! She is a dear old college friend, one of my bridesmaids (you know, a decade ago!), I see her once a year but always love every minute of it. Lisa talked me into it, told me she still needed a date (Jacob and I had rsvp'd no), and said I could crash with her. I was a surprise guest (we told the bride, didn't want to mess up the table settings) and it was a total blast. I flew out Saturday morning, was such a rockstar and stayed up til like 3 (which mind you was 6 am my time), skinny dipped in Lake Tahoe late night with Lisa and Ducky (super fun art school reunion with Ducky there too), then hung out solo all day Sunday and soaked up the breathtaking beauty (had a rental car, pumpkin spice latte, and lots of trail to discover!), flew the red-eye back Sunday night. Phew! Photos in post below. I have a few more to add at some point.

Kim, Anne, myself, and Jen

The weekend after that we drove down to Cinci to visit Jen and Graham, with Anne and Justin. Jen’s got a baby on the way!! and we hadn’t seen them since their wedding back in June. She got us rooms downtown (and a babysitter Sat. night!), so we experienced the city, went to City Museum on Saturday, out to dinner minus kiddos a, plus Kim and Dick (Kim is an Edin cousin). Helped Jen pack up the kitchen on Sunday. They are buying a house together and moving out soon. Very exciting.

Emmett, Gwen, Ciara, and Toren

And then comes Halloween! With playdates and riding lessons and lots of life in between. I wish I could get into more detail. Hopefully will post on the kids individually soon. They keep us oh-so-busy but I am totally loving their little-ness and enjoying every moment. Hence the plethora of pics!

Meow!

Family Movie

2011-10-29T18:22:00.001-07:00

We went to see Puss & Boots in 3D tonight, as a family! And Emmett watched all of it. So great to be able to do that finally :)

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Marissa's Wedding (non iphone pics)

2011-10-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

Our firstborn turns 6!

2011-10-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

Gwen had a wonderful birthday this year. It started with a party at the Family Puppy in Brighton. Lots of friends were able to attend, including the neighbors Michaela and Hannah who we’re just starting to get to know better (with our weekly horse meet-up!). Gwen was totally giddy (as were most of the kids) to be playing with puppies, making stuffed animals, and having balloon fights with each other. Thank you to everyone who joined in the fun!

And then on her actual birthday, she was able to take cupcakes to school and enjoy more b-day treats at home with the family. Her front tooth fell out at school that day (!) so she also got a visit from the tooth fairy that night. All of her bday photos here!

Fall Break 2011 (woot woot!)

2011-10-04T10:11:00.000-07:00

So back in April during the Komen Race, when Heather and I were running together (walk/jog/whateva), we schemed up this trip to visit the Morrison’s this fall. Look what a little forethought and planning can make happen! We were able to get four couples together (almost all of the old roomies) for a warm, sunny, fun-filled weekend in Pensacola.

Kurt and Jen have a lovely, large home perfect for entertaining a crowd like us. We celebrated Heather’s birthday on the 30th in style, going out in a limo to dinner and a cool beach bar. Saturday, Kurt’s friend took us out on his boat. We beached at a sandbar and hung out all afternoon, sipping cocktails, reminiscing, and laughing.

That night the ladies had our Sex & the City evening out, sharing stories at a wine bar, shaking our booties at the gay bar. It was so much fun all weekend long! Somehow I never made it in for a skinny dip late night, but others filled our quota of naked just fine!!

So great seeing Kurt, reconnecting, supporting, and distracting him from sadness and stress with his family. We love you Kurt! Thank you Morrison’s for the amazing weekend away. Here are my pics :)

school is cool

2011-09-28T20:07:00.001-07:00

Somedays Emmett wants to go to school with Gwen so bad. It's so cute!!

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Riding Lessons

2011-09-25T19:15:00.000-07:00

Gwen & Paulette

So besides our weekly visits with the neighbor Michaela and her horse Acorn, Gwen will also be taking riding lessons with the Whitmore Lake H.S. equestrian club coach every other week through the school year... maybe longer. We’ll see if her passion for horses sticks. I have a feeling it will. She did such a good job today, I’m so proud of her. I think horsemanship (and this coach) will be great for her shy side as well.

I’m enjoying the experience too. I’m learning about horses with her at the same time. Plus, at the new farm I get to pet these cute miniature goats.

cute goat

Go Blue good times!!

2011-09-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

The Notre Dame game turned out to be the most exciting, perfect night game ever! Super weather, yellow jello shots, happy friends and family, a babysitter! They gave out these pom poms to everyone so the color and the noise of the crowds and the music and the make-it-all-happen-in-the-last-quarter craziness combined for an excellent mix of Go Blue fun! Strangely, I had great cell phone coverage in the stadium so I was documenting it well and sharing in real time. Ah, technology! Photos here »

And to make it even more fun, Trevor and Kate came down for the night and we got to spend time with them and their growing family. Layla's curls have grown and she is talking so well now! The real grower is Gavin, mostly in the cheeks and those rolls around the knees. Adorable and both so sweet!

Before Trevor and Kate arrived, Gwen and I went out to Abby’s (dad’s) place for her birthday party. The girls had fun reconnecting (old daycare friends who haven’t seen each other in almost a year!), but Gwen was shy at first. The horse on the property got her pretty excited though, along with that fab Tinkerbell cake! All the party pics here »

And then there are so many other lovely moments in between and since. Another album just for kicks » This one includes the home game this past weekend against EMU. We took the kids and got a chance to tailgate with the Klein’s (minus Will) and the Carnell’s. Another beautiful football Saturday, another win (phew!). The kids made it through about one half, they spent at least a quarter rolling down the hill outside the stadium! :)

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

Labor Day Weekend was cold and rainy and not the dreamy last summer days we were hoping for. I didn't even get a chance to ski :( but it was fun all the same. I always love the time I get with my family. Big changes this year though, the annual meal was moved to Susie’s place. It worked out wonderfully, but we all felt the symbolic shift and were silently missing Grandpa Bob and the way things used to be.

The UM game was a crazy weather fiasco! We watched from the cozy comfort of the cabin, but Jacob, Jojo, Williams and McColgans were all there for the game and dealt with intense heat and humidity and game-delaying downpours! Jojo stumbled and needed medical attention for the heat and to make sure she could get back to the tailgate. The game was eventually cancelled. Fortunately, UM was far enough ahead to get the opponent's surrender.

Tonight we have Kate, Trevor, and kiddos visiting for the first UM night game...and we have a sitter!! So excited. Go Blue!

woof!

2011-09-08T10:19:00.000-07:00

So I haven’t gotten to my Labor Day pics yet, but here is the batch before that! Sometimes I wish I wouldn’t take so many photos, but I just can’t help it!! It’s one of my addictions....and then there’s coffee....

Raina’s Solo

2011-09-07T07:38:00.001-07:00

YouTube Video

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my stylish first grader

2011-09-07T07:02:00.001-07:00

Day 2, Gwen is rockin' it. Emmett is home sick with cold virus. You take the good, you take the bad...

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This and that and a gorgeous big city wedding!

2011-08-24T18:57:00.000-07:00

The day after getting home from the cabin was U-M football fan day at the stadium! The rain cleared up and it turned out to be a great afternoon with the family, getting excited about the new season and cousin Johnny who is sure to get some action in his senior year at fullback! It was so cool to see him signing autographs (for a huge line-up of folks!)

Here are all my latest non-wedding pics

And on to the wedding in Chicago. It was one of Britta's BFFs getting married, Rachel Lynch. I don't get to see her much these days, but their foursome will always be near and dear to me. Love those girls and the friendship and support they provide Brit.

The original plan was to have Lynne come down to our place on Saturday morning. But on Thursday she called and said they were at a funeral in the Detroit area and could pick up the kids on their way back north. Three nights without the kids, well okay :) So we ended up seeing the Harry Potter movie that night, and then Brian Rich visited on Friday (he flew into DTW for the Old School Shootout the following day). We ate out at the Tavern, stayed up late catching up. No photo...oops.

Saturday we had to get around somewhat early so I could do my 'do' before we left at 10 am. I was pretty happy with how it turned out. I had practiced on Thursday before the movie but I had to abandon pinning and turn into pretty ponytail. Luckily on Saturday, with enough pins and hairspray it all came together!

Easy drive in, I worked as Jacob drove (big, stressful project right now). Had time to check into the hotel (the Congress Plaza downtown), have a drink, and randomly catch a limo (!) to the ceremony. Big, beautiful catholic church. Gorgeous wedding party, lovely day. Rain cleared up, yay! Rode the bus back to the Lincoln Park Zoo (reception site) but found a bar nearby to pass the time until cocktail hour.

The reception space at the Zoo was perfect, great view of the city in an outdoor happy hour area. Everything was beautiful. We had a fabulous time during all of it, dancing into the night. Jacob was out on the floor even more than me!! So awesome. Thank you to the happy couple for having us. Loved every bit! Here is my full wedding album.

2nd Annual Sister-Kiddo Week in Lewiston

2011-08-14T06:14:00.000-07:00

It was a full week, starting last weekend with a visit to TC to see Andy, Jen and their sweet little Lila. They had been living in San Fran and just last fall bought a home in TC. It was about time we made the trek to see them! Nice, relaxing day including a dinner in with a visit from Zack, Mandy, their new baby Brody, and Zack's brother Corey and his new 4-yr-old step-daughter. Zack is another old college buddy, who still lives in California. Lots different hanging out now with all the little kids running around, babies crying, parents too busy to even focus on their drinks :)

Then to the cabin, Sunday with Jacob, and the rest of the week with Brit and the kids. Lewiston's Timbertown Festival was Sunday so we went downtown for that. Kyle and Melissa were there through Tuesday so they overlapped with Jacob, as well as Britta.

The week was wonderful, not perfect weather, lots of wind, clouds and some rain, but we made the most of it. Britta brought all the goodies to tie dye. An excellent idea in theory, kind of crazy when the permanent dyes got squirted all over by the kiddies! The shirts turned out great though. Lots of hot tubbing, swimming, golf carting, boating. Took Dillon and his friend tubing one windy day, a fun last hurrah before he goes to Central this weekend.

Love the time with my kids, my sister, and my nieces and nephew. It's a crazy, rowdy, exhausting time but I love every bit of it! Here are all of my pics.

Zeller Time!

2011-08-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, the Zeller’s came over for the day on Saturday. It was super great to see them because it had been months and months, and because it was a gorgeous day and we spent it totally relaxing at Independence Lake and around our place.

And this weekend we get to see more old friends. We’re heading up north tonight and visiting Andy and Jen in Traverse City, meeting Brody Mason while we’re there, hanging with Willie’s again at the cabin, and then Britta and I have our week vacation on the lake with the kids! I don’t think it’ll be all that relaxing, but I’m sure there will be several moments of bliss while the kids play and we sip our cocktails basking in the summer sun.

Here are my recent photos, yes a whole batch since farm camp.

Farm Camp!!

2011-08-02T10:02:00.001-07:00

So this summer I wanted to get Gwen involved in at least a few other activities outside of normal daycare. I did a lot of web searching, reading pamphlets and newletters on local day camps, etc. and I came across the Real Life Day Camp in Canton. It's apparently very popular, been around a long time. It's run by Farmer Don and his wife Marie. There is a big, fancy nursery school up front and the big red barn in the back. We signed Gwen up for one week, the only one that was still available at the time!

Gwen has a major love for animals, as do many kids, but hers is especially strong and grew deeper since camp. The setting at the camp was very open. The drop-off and pick-up hours are very free, with kids all over the place playing with the animals, getting in and out of fenced areas, picking up and setting down, chasing the kittens since they were a hot commodity. Organized activities start at 9, go until lunch, then they get bussed to a local pool for swimming, back for a few afternoon activities, then free play again. Lots of teenage counselors overseeing areas, so they do keep an eye on things, but it is a ton of fun and freedom for the kids.

Gwen is a shy girl when it comes to new social settings. She told me that she only talked to animals the first few days! On Wednesday, I dropped her off and helped introduce her to other girls her age. In the long run this helped, but that morning my being there made her very emotional. She didn't want me to leave. It was tough, but she eventually buddied up with Madison (from the pics) and waved me goodbye with a smile on her face. At week's end, she wanted more. Her favorite part, daily horse care and riding. I think we may have an equestrian on our hands!!

And one of the coolest parts of camp is the freedom to check out animals each night! We had a bunny, chicken, kitten, duck, and piglet. And the piglet was for the whole weekend! They give you a crate, some food, some simple instructions, and there you go! Piggy Sue was the biggest hit, bottle feeding, roaming around and digging in the garden with us, kind of attached to people, so cute and grunty!!

Here are all the pics of the animals and camp. Check out our YouTube channel for more videos.

Zooey Deschanel

2011-07-25T09:24:00.000-07:00

After seeing the new Pooh movie this weekend (which I loved and thankfully the kiddies made it through!), I was intrigued to hear more by Zooey Deschanel. You've probably seen her in some movies, I recently figured out she's the 'she' in the band She & Him (I had seen a poster design or two in my design browsing), she happens to be a part of a fun, new blog that I began to follow, and then I heard she was writing and singing songs for Winnie the Pooh (thanks to Twitter.. @therealzooeyd). Oh, and I love her bangs.

Just what the doctor ordered!

2011-07-18T18:41:00.000-07:00

{ Full Photo Album }

I would say that our anniversary vacation was almost totally and completely perfect, only the sprinkling of mosquito bites I came home with were worth occasionally complaining about. The locals told us that the rainy season had arrived early this year, hence the extra bugs. Jacob didn't get bit at all, just sweet ol' me. Ah well. We did experience quite a bit of rain too, but it was mainly at night. If it did come down during the day, it was always a quick thunderstorm.

We loved our apartment at Cookies (thank goodness, it was an online find!). The family above us was super nice and easy to live below for the week. We were up in the hills, a little gem mixed in with the local island folks, up from the town Isabel II. We had our own pool, plus a great balcony with a view of the ocean. We made all our breakfasts in, sipped coffee, browsed the web and picked which beach to visit on Google Earth every morning. Packed a cooler of snacks and beer and would head out for the day to sun bathe, swim, and snorkel. Perfect, right?

We did go out in the bioluminescent bay on Sunday night. The full moon last week made visibility less intense so we thought we should see it asap in the week. Evening kayak and swim guided by DinDin and his guys. Very fun.

It’s definitely an island you need to explore and a rental Jeep is a must. The roads to the beaches are rough, crazy huge puddles! Jacob loved it of course, thank goodness for those oh-shit handles! Roads up in the hills by our place were crazy too, potholes like you've never seen before. I think they almost treat them like speed bumps (but holes instead).

Each beach is a little different, completely gorgeous, often totally secluded. The snorkeling was great in so many places and we brought our own gear which made it so easy and that much more awesome! We jumped off of some rocks, explored caves, played dice and frisbee, read books, drew landscapes.

On our anniversary we had a private 7-course meal put on by a chef we had met bartending at Lazy Jacks earlier in the week. It was so special and fabulously yummy, one of my favorite parts of the trip. I also loved that we happened to be there during the island’s annual patronales (festival of the patron saint). A big deal amongst the locals (it was packed!) Live music, drinks, finger foods, fireworks, a real taste of the island and its people.

Overall, simply fantastic. Just what we needed. Just what we had hoped for. I’m the luckiest girl to have found my love when I did and married him a whole decade ago! Te queiro mi Jacobo!!

I <3 Vieques

2011-07-12T06:22:00.001-07:00

Loving life. Missing kids, but I can handle a few more days :)

Navio Beach

View from balcony

Wild horses
(Correction: guy at the bar told us all horses are tagged and owned by someone, they just roam freely. Hmmm)

Can't wait to bring the kids back in a few years!

American Celebration in the Canadian Lakes!

2011-07-06T11:30:00.000-07:00

We had a gorgeously perfect weekend up at Lynne and Mike's for the Fourth of July. We didn't get too stars and stripey so I went overboard with my photoshop brushes here :) Lots of relaxing, swimming with the kids, a few illnesses (Gwen had a stomach bug, Toren and Justin headcolds) but it was a nice place to rest and recover. Here are my pics.

in case you missed the peonies

2011-07-06T09:55:00.001-07:00

I’ve been running in the Arb lately and last month I caught the peony garden in full bloom. It’s magical and made even more fun with photo apps!!

tigers, husky boys, and froggies

2011-07-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

A very busy summer indeed. We were finally home last weekend, at least on Saturday. We gardened and worked around the house, ended the evening at the Tigers game. Beautiful night for it, kids were pretty great considering our nosebleed seats and the late bedtime. We did end up walking around the last few innings, watching from down below. Then Sunday we drove to Portland for Dillon's open house. Perfect weather for a perfect family gathering. Here are my latest pics.

crazy animals

2011-07-01T18:49:00.000-07:00

Including our monkey Emmett!

kitty love

2011-07-01T08:33:00.001-07:00

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the kitchen lately

2011-06-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

So I just have to mention (again) this soup I made last night. No biggie, chicken & rice made from one of those Kroger hot & ready birds, but it was the highlight of my time spent in the kitchen lately! I am finding myself in such a rut with making food for the family; the kids are so picky and need to eat almost immediately after getting home so they end up with such simple, sometimes healthy/sometimes not meals (noodles with butter and cheese is a favorite!). Then I have to make something else for myself and Jacob and with the onset of swimsuit season, we both kind of nibble at leftovers or have an egg sandwich and call it good. Ha! The soup (though it took me until 8 pm to make due to distractions) was made by instinct (no recipe) and it was healthy and we all loved it. I froze a batch and had some for lunch today. When my garden is popping, watch out Martha this soup is gonna really rock!

p.s. Little blog maintenance, check sidebar at right :)

Father's Day Weekend

2011-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

Cabin Father's Day Weekend

Another weekend up north, this time at the cabin celebrating Father's Day (and Kyle's birthday!). Britta's family was there, along with the Willie's, so it was especially adorable and fun with all the kiddos.

Emmett went poo in the potty!!!

2011-06-15T19:36:00.000-07:00

He hasn’t shown any interest in potty training at all, quite the opposite. A big “noooooo!” whenever we mentioned it. But, tonight he actually said yes and willingly climbed up, sat there a while, and then went.

Potty dance party followed.

Jen & Graham’s Wedding

2011-06-13T18:51:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we drove up to Mackinac Island for Jen and Graham’s wedding. On Thursday night we made it as far as the cabin, spent the night, and got on the road early Friday up to the island. Boy, was it chilly out. I didn't really pack properly, didn't even bring a coat for myself! But I had coats for the kids and that's what matters, right?

And it rained. That part was a bit disappointing, but lazing around on Saturday was okay with me too. Plus, the hotel pool was an excellent alternative for the kids. Fortunately, it dried up in time for the ceremony. The kids were both invited to take part and boy were they adorable. Gwen loved being a part of the glamorous wedding party. The other flower girl was Graham's cousin's 9-yr-old daughter Hansley, so Gwen was one of the big girls. Toren didn't make it down the aisle (with Emmett), but the two of them practically stole the show they were so handsome and entertaining.

The reception was a total blast. Kiddie dance party!! Jen and Graham were so happy and gorgeous. The family was glowing (especially Lynne). Very special times. Wished it all could have lasted longer.

Photo Album Here

wrestling

2011-06-07T09:13:00.001-07:00

I’ve been trying to upload videos to my YouTube channel more often lately. That link will always be in the sidebar as well (teal tv --->)

trying.to.share.but.upload.is.taking.forever....

2011-06-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

I'll have to link to album in the morning. It'll be here.

Sorry Krista, this is the best I could do! :)

2011-05-27T08:59:00.001-07:00

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So Thankful

2011-05-10T16:07:00.000-07:00

I am such a lucky mommy. So much love and support from Lynne and my dad (and their spouses who gave them up for a few days!), helping to take care of Gwen last week. A super fabulous mother’s day weekend spent outside with the kids, playing, gardening, exploring. A night out with the Spitzley's in Ann Arbor thanks to Q's contribution as design sponsor for WineFest, and then a lazy Sunday morning with Brit, Ben, and all the kids. Planting potatoes with the Edin’s and being able to ride the neighbor’s horse! A thoughtful husband who is thankful for me and is able to give when I need it most. And my gorgeous, curious, stubborn, funny, energetic, rowdy, and utterly amazing son and daughter who make my heart melt on a daily basis. It's definitely not easy being a mother, but I am so thankful every day that I am. Here are the latest pics!

Gwen’s Surgery

2011-05-02T19:38:00.000-07:00

Well, I think we’re through the hard part...but I’m not sure. We’re almost out of the strong medicine! Um...anyway, the whole thing has gone pretty well. Gwen had one big meltdown the night before her surgery, the reality of it sinking in. But after that and the whole morning of, she was such a trooper. I am so proud of her still.

The procedure itself only took about an hour. She was up eating a popsicle and watching Little Mermaid on a portable DVD player by the time they let us back to see her. It’s been very painful for her, but the medicine helps that quite a bit. Taking that at first was difficult, we figured out mixing it with apple juice worked the best for her. She slept with us the first few nights, extra cuddling, plus I was right there to get her more medicine once in the middle of the night.

And it really is true about the popsicles, she’s eaten so many! And ice cream! I actually got worried (the mom in me!) about all the sugar and lack of anything else, but it’s all she wanted and we wanted her to consume some sort of fluid/food so there you have it. Slowly, she’s eaten small portions of real food (and I've been sneaking some protein powder into the ice cream!)

Grandma Lynne is here now for the beginning of the week and my dad will come for Thursday. She was feeling less energetic today than the weekend so I think she'll need the extra time off this week. She may be getting a cold too :( But...at least the surgery is behind us and it will all be better eventually. I did notice right away that her voice changed. It's more clear, high-pitched, and totally adorable.

p.s. Emmett is reaping all sugary benefits from this situation and he loves it! Popsicles for breakfast? Yes, please.

Easter Weekend

2011-05-02T19:26:00.001-07:00

Easter weekend was totally lovely, see photos. I had Friday off with the kids so we colored Easter eggs, went to Coldstone Creamery (yum!) and watched Ponyo, their new favorite flick. Saturday, my co-w0rker Christine came over, along with the Ypsi Edin’s, to work on the veggie garden for a few hours. We planted beets, beans, radishes, and greens. Gwen was very into planting the seeds this time around, such a big helper. The ladies labored, but had a lot of fun doing it. And then Sunday we had the day to ourselves!! We had our Easter egg hunt in the morning, ate jellybeans and chocolate all afternoon, and a pot roast in the evening. The weather was stunning, just a wonderful family day. And have I mentioned how much I heart spring?!!!

Komen Race 2011

2011-04-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

Another cold, less-than-lovely-warm-and-sunny Sunday for our annual Komen Race for the Cure event in Lansing this past weekend. I’m just glad it was not precipitating (like the awful snow we had yesterday)! It was quite chilly and very windy, but I thought the day was wonderful. View photo album >

I’m super happy that we’ve made this an annual event, it’s so meaningful for me to have a day devoted to the memory of my Mom and the disease, so I can be recharged and refreshed by the love and support of our closest friends and family. This year I actually ran, thanks to Jacob (for helping me to workout the last few weeks) and to the group of ladies who encouraged me, especially Heather who ended up being my running mate. We even did a three-legged run for a bit, sharing my iPhone earbuds and jamming to Janet’s “Nasty”!

I had old friends come out to participate too (Lisa and Cathy), which is great but such a tease. It’s so busy (and cold) leaving little time for socializing. Fortunately, most of the group met up at Leo’s Outpost after for super big beers, pizza, ice cream and cake. The perfect end to an overall more-than-lovely Sunday in my opinion!

Life is beautiful.

2011-04-14T14:48:00.001-07:00

No time to share a story, but I did upload a big batch of photos. Way too many, I just can’t help myself...life is beautiful.

Sunday funday

2011-04-10T19:52:00.001-07:00

Family bike ride to Independence Lake.

We had the place to ourselves.

Edin gathering + Oberon.

The Barbie Jeep is back in action.

Enjoying sunset.

Go Blogger!

2011-04-05T09:45:00.000-07:00

In case you ladies haven’t tried out the new Blogger views, here’s a demo. It will work on any Blogger blog by adding endings to URL, if the settings allow for it (basically public, access to feed, etc). I knew Google wouldn’t let us down! Also note, the whole thing will be getting an upgrade sometime soon, article here.

Flipcard:

http://gardenofedin.blogspot.com/view/flipcard

Mosaic:

http://gardenofedin.blogspot.com/view/mosaic

Snapshot:

http://gardenofedin.blogspot.com/view/snapshot

out shopping :)

2011-03-27T12:16:00.001-07:00

Sunday afternoon at the mall with my little lady.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Update!

2011-03-22T19:49:00.001-07:00

The tonsillectomy was postponed today because Gwen came down with the stomach bug. She needs to be good and healthy for this type of procedure. Honestly, I'm relieved and I know she is too. This morning she was starting to freak out, maybe even gave herself a bellyache, hmm.

And poor Emmett, took him to the doc again this morning and good thing I did, slight pneumonia and an ear infection!!... all while dealing with the virus! Fortunately, he seems much better even tonight, more energy and smiles. Gwen improved as the day went on too.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

you take the good, you take the bad, you take them both and there you have...

2011-03-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

Emmett came down with a virus this week. It's been a long weekend recovering, poor guy. Finally saw some signs of our perky little boy this evening. Phew! Started last Wednesday when I picked him up from daycare, high fever for over three days, vomiting, eating and drinking so little. Eesh.

I stayed home with him on Thursday and Jacob took Gwen to the ENT dr. at U-M hospital. Apparently, everyone who viewed her tonsils commented on their large, class 4 size. They are considered “kissing tonsils” because they are forced to be intimate at their size :) Removing them was highly recommended so we are going forward with the surgery...and it’s this coming Wednesday! There were only two openings and Daddy went for the early one. Eesh again. I am confident this will be for the better, I’m just not looking forward to our little girl in pain. She’s being very brave about it, so far. Wish us luck!

The Latest

2011-03-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

I meant to share this one this past Saturday in honor of the big bball game/win, but I could not get to downloading from that camera in time. I’m starting to feel overwhelmed with having two cameras (point-n-shoot and iphone). Plus, I just take way too many pics. This post is going to be loaded with hundreds of pics of my kids. I’m really doing this for archival purposes...not to bore you!

Anyway, Emmett turned two! We celebrated the weekend before with a visit from Papa and Grandma Trina, Unky, Kiki & Toren, and then Chuck E. Cheese the night of. He really got excited about the birthday song this year and blowing out the candle. So cute. Just yesterday I took him in for his 2-yr. appt. 34.5" inches and 27 lbs., 50% for both. Doctor was impressed with his strong muscles and solid feet. As he hopped around the room, she said "Well, we can’t call him delicate, can we?"

So he’s tough and strong-willed, but he's also very happy and hilarious. Lots of talking these days, little sentences now. Pretty easy to communicate with him, which is good because the independent tantrum-y nature is in full effect. He wants to do most everything by himself. Taking him out in public is challenging, but if I try to take it in stride it seems to go better. Patience, wit, and planning, right?

I'm on vacation at home this week. Daycare is closed (and off to Disney), so instead of heading south again this year, we are saving for our 10-yr. anniversary trip this July. We're booked at Cookies in Vieques! This week Jacob is working, Gwen still has school, but I've been really thankful to have time with the kids. Emmett and I had a stunningly gorgeous walk in the woods on Monday morning. You can feel spring is coming, but for those few hours it was a warm winter wonderland and I was very happy about it. Fun to find out later that Sally had Baby Henry that afternoon. A lovely birthday it was.

This past Saturday was Jacob’s 34th, and coincidentally the big bball game between UM and MSU. I was able to pull together quite a large, fun gathering for the b-day boy, including a maize & blue win. Thanks to everyone who came over. So much fun and adorable kid chaos!

Gwen and Cheese cuddle. This is a very common scene around here. Gwen is totally smitten with the kitten. Our only issue is that she smothers the poor fella. He’s handling it great though, even lets Emmett carry him around (I know, brave kitty!). She's also smitten with Justin Bieber, which is kind of hilarious. But I remember how those crushes felt and it's fun and giddy, so I crank up his tunes and dance along with her.

Kindergarten is going well (though she doesn't want to go this week because Mommy is home and she'd rather be too), but the growth and change is amazing, intellectually and socially. We’ve been considering utilizing school of choice and switching to a larger school district (Ann Arbor or South Lyon), but all my research and lists of pros and cons keeps bringing me back to WLPS. I'll be digging a little deeper into the middle and high school curriculums/teachers, but most likely we'll stay here. Looking back, I appreciate what Portland offered me in terms of knowing and feeling close with teachers and my whole class. Respect, confidence, comfort.

The latest concern with Gwen is her breathing. She’s a mouth breather. At night it’s snoring/loud breathing, during the day it’s just her mouth hanging open all the time :) Last year, the dentist was the first to bring this up with us, that her tonsils were quite large, wondering if she was waking up at night, snoring, etc. The answer was yes. They even suggested a palette widener because the mouth breathing is narrowing the shape of her palette. At the time, she had just gotten glasses and I did not want to consider a mouth piece. Geesh! I did have pediatrician look at the tonsils, he didn’t want to rush into surgery so we tried a steroid mist to see if it was an allergy. Deep down I knew it wasn't, but I thought we could try that first. So at her latest dentist appt. we discussed her tonsils again. I’ve been reading about mouth breathing and it's totally frightening! The dentist referred me to an ENT doctor and from there we'll decide on the procedure. She may get her adenoids out as well.

Gwen is being very positive about it, though, and understands it’s going to be very helpful...I think, in more ways than one. Gwen does have very tired afternoons/evenings and I think it could be because of her sleep breathing. We may end up with a much more well-rested, eager-to-please kiddo. 5-yr. old tantrums be gone? Fingers crossed.

GNO!

2011-02-20T13:38:00.000-08:00

Look at how timely I am with this blog post! I think it's because I'm hungover and tired and would rather be on my computer than playing out in this snow. Anyway, lots of fun last night with a great group of ladies. Dinner at Vinology and then dancing at Necto down-under (VIP boy-boy b-day party downstairs...way better than sweaty spring break crowd upstairs). Thanks ladies! And to those who couldn't make it, let's plan another outing sometime soon!

Andrea was here!

2011-02-20T13:00:00.000-08:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

sprinkle sprinkle, a boo boo, and more

2011-02-15T19:35:00.000-08:00

The weekend before last was so action-packed, I'm tired just thinking about it! I don't want to miss writing about it though so here goes.

Lynne and Mike came to visit on Thursday night so they could be with the kids on Friday, help out with things, let us go out on a double date with Anne & Justin on Friday! We saw these guys. Gwen lost her first tooth while they were here!

I headed out to Sally's sprinkle in Troy on Saturday morning. Fabulous cupcakes by Christa, hugs for the beautiful mama-to-be-again Sally, catching up with friends and then a quick visit with the Williams (including Patti & Scott but minus the girls who were sleeping!). Didn't realize a big snowfall was coming through that day. Made for a (2-hr) long, tense drive home. Eesh.

I came home to a happy Edin-full house, but poor Emmett got his first bad boo boo at the park with Lynne and Gwen. After sledding at Independence Park they went on the playset. Emmett went down the slide ahead of Lynne and when she followed after, a piece of ice broke free and cut him just above the right eye. Lots of blood. Very scary for them I'm sure. Emmett was a sport, never seemed too phased by it, at least after the fact. We decided to take him into urgent care in Brighton that night just to be sure he didn't need stitches. At least we could get a proper bandage on him....although they never seem to last long before he rips them off! It's healing quickly, but I think it will leave a mark. Scary how close to his eye it came. And a worrisome comment from the late night doc as Emmett jumped around the room, "I'm guessing he'll be back again sometime soon." Yikes. I believe her.

And then this past weekend was mostly fun (besides the skunk Friday). Jacob and I went out on Saturday, dinner and a movie. Sunday was a perfect snow sculpting day and of course when Gwen asked for a roof over her snow house, Daddy delivered :) I was shooting photos with a few different cameras, including a fancy Nikon that I was borrowing from a Q colleague. Wanted to document my folk fest stuff. Lots of great pics, cuteness enhanced!

Emmett with the boo boo and a berry face.

Super snow fort day.

So pretty.

So silly.

Emmett is helping Gwen practice being Mr. H with happy hair

2011-02-09T16:46:00.001-08:00

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Winter Fun

2011-02-06T19:52:00.000-08:00

Did I ever post this album? I can't remember. I think it may have only made it to Facebook.

sunday, january 9

More photos of the kitty, the kiddos, and friends.

Winter Fun 2011

And a visit from the Carnell's a few Sundays back. Lots of sun and sweetness.

Carnell Sunday

Last weekend was the Folk Festival, which included a night out with my hubby and a day/night with Brit! I blogged about it for Q :)

This weekend is worthy of another (long) post, but I'm so whooped it'll have to happen another night.

duct tape on!

2011-01-30T10:30:00.001-08:00

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Say Cheese!

2011-01-23T18:59:00.000-08:00

So, for at least a year now Gwen has been asking for a kitty cat...or a new puppy...or a new sister. You know, typical 5-yr-old girl wishes. It wasn't until recently that I started to warm up to the cat idea. I've always considered myself a dog person, but I really do like cats, if it's a nice cat. My worry has always been finding that right cat, but with a little bit of research and connecting with a good rescue group, we found just the one!

I filled out an application for a very small, adorable tabby that we found on Petfinder. This group wrote me right back and we set up a meeting time for the wee one. Gwen and I went out all afternoon a few weeks ago and met a bunch of their different kitties. The little one was much too scared. A few others were super playful and sweet, but older. There was one kitty that they thought might be just right, but we'd have to visit him in his foster home in Garden City. I decided we better go meet him.

They had named him Sundance Kid because of his blonde hair like Robert Redford. A male, around 5 months old, super playful, outgoing. Rescued from the Oakland County shelter around the new year because of overcrowding. He came in covered in tar pieces and dirt, and then caught an upper respiratory infection from the shelter. He's been staying with the foster moms until the infection cleared up.

So here we are, about 2 weeks after that. Jacob brought him home Friday after work. We had been brainstorming names for a while and Cheese was one of our boy names, mainly because of Tinkerbell (the litte mouse is called Cheese). Plus, he was orange (it's really a lovely 'buff' tabby, such a pretty kitty with white paws!). Gwen wants his full name to be Macaroni & Cheese of course!

Things have been going really well. Winnie was excitable, but friendly, a few kisses were even exchanged. She was mostly jealous, wanting in on the action. The kitten is brave with her, even playful. He's doing fine with the litter box, even with the natural kitty litter made out of wheat. He'll be an indoor kitty, right now his "safe space" is the downstairs bathroom, but we'll give him more freedom as time goes on. He'll also get a chance to do a little hunting and get rid of our country mouse problem!

Gwen is still on cloud nine about it, actually won't give him a rest. Emmett kind of terrifies him (loud and rowdy!), but at least gives up pretty quick. Jacob and I are both enjoying having a sweet little creature that loves to rub cheek to cheek. So cute!

new perspective

2011-01-16T18:49:00.001-08:00

For Christmas, Anne gave me some fun, new lens for my iPhone. They work a bit better on a Blackberry (the flat surface and the magnet) but still very enjoyable! Anne, Justin, and Toren brought them over today (because the package finally arrived from Hong Kong). They joined us to go sledding at Independence Lake park, then brownie making which turned into hot fudge sundae eating, yummy.

Friday after work, Kele joined me for happy hour at Vinology. No photos, lots of fun. Saturday, (as well as Sunday) we lazed around, played, prepared for kitty (yep, adopting this week!) and then hosted dinner for one of Jacob's co-workers, Mark, and his wife Jessica. I made a Martha recipe. Yep, uh huh. It was yummy. And then we played Sorry (another xmas gift, Gwen's new favorite thing to do).

flash!

2011-01-08T19:32:00.001-08:00

Back to the grind this week. But, still having fun :) Plus, a link to all of the other holiday vacation photos I took!

Christmas Day at Home

2010-12-30T17:38:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve Dinner in Saginaw

2010-12-30T10:01:00.001-08:00

Laughing all the way!!!

2010-12-20T20:25:00.001-08:00

Christmas is almost here!

2010-12-19T20:49:00.000-08:00

This next week will be such a fun whirlwind. Best to post these few holiday prep photos now. Have a wonderful Christmas everyone!

Holiday Prep

Free Typeface

2010-12-17T18:39:00.000-08:00

Used in the header: Piron

It’s OpenType so should work on mac or pc :)

Web Design Ledger

dafont

Both good places to find fun, free fonts.

Sammy's Third B-day Party

2010-12-12T15:06:00.000-08:00

Despite the consistent snowfall today, we made it out to Royal Oak for Sammy's third b-day celebration. Cupcakes and cutie pies. So much fun. I totally love spending time with all the little ones, it's just so much sweetness and chaos and comedy at one time! Finally met baby Miles too. Thanks for having us Zeller's!

Sammy party pics

Kindergarten with Gwen!

2010-12-12T14:45:00.000-08:00

Gwen, Jackson (the aforementioned), and Ciara P.

I volunteered in Gwen's class mid-November. I just wanted to see what it was like, see her with the class. I didn't realize it was going to be like going back in time and re-remembering how awesome kindergarten was. I wish I could go every day (as a student of course!). I loved every minute of it. Pow Wow day in preparation for Thanksgiving; making indian outfits, medallions. Recess was cold but very entertaining. The little kids just zigzagged around, stopping to play here and there, squealing the whole time!

Visiting kindergarten

So long fall, hello winter!

2010-12-12T14:39:00.000-08:00

Since I haven’t shared a new photo album since Halloween, I feel slightly overwhelmed with the amount of photos that are building up on my computer! I decided to just batch up a bunch from the fall and post them all at once. Today felt like a good day to share them because it is now most definitely winter! Lots of snow all day today! Enjoy the pics.

Photos Fall 2010

Wishbone

2010-12-02T11:48:00.001-08:00

Gram sent us home with the turkey wishbone following Thanksgiving. I decided I would do the honors with Gwen, so that Emmett didn't run around the house with a broken wishbone afterwards. Of course, she got the big end. Her reaction was really funny, she ran off to her room to make her wish because “wishes are supposed to be secrets” she said. I think she just wanted to wish about Jackson, the boy she likes from her class. The one with cool hair.

When she came back from her room, she said that I could make a wish too. So I closed my eyes and was going to wish ‘secretly’ in my head. Just then, Gwen started blurting something out for me, so I spoke out loud too, “I wish that my children would get along every single day. It would make me the happiest mommy ever.”

Gwen immediately groans out, “NOOOOOOOOOO! What if it comes true?!” And she puts her head down on the counter to pout.

Ah, the love.

Babies!

2010-11-29T14:48:00.001-08:00

I'm a little behind, but I want to document the arrival of little Miles and tiny Tess! Congratulations Zeller's and Carnell's! (Sorry Heather's blog feed doesn't work anymore, I'm stumped on that one.)

Miles Christopher Zeller, born 11/14

Tess Lauren Carnell, born 11/17

my kiddos

2010-11-22T19:39:00.000-08:00

Emmett
// Talking so much! Putting sentences together, "Daddy ba-bye," "Eat it!"
// Calls his blankey "Diddy" and is seriously attached to it.
// Still sucks his first two fingers on the right hand.
// Done with bottles finally! Calls all drinks "joos"
// Has lots of teeth, I don't even know, I haven't braved a finger in there in a while.
// I do try to brush his teeth, but he does not love it.
// Takes a long afternoon nap.
// Using the crib tent with no complaints (best invention ever).

// We've got the little potty set up, but he only agrees to sit on it occasionally.
// Wants to do everything by himself. Wants to be a big boy.
// Tells me 'go!' when he's doing it his way.
// Carries all sorts of stools around the house to get to what he wants.
// Yep, the tantrums have begun.
// We are still babyproofing things; knives had to be moved up high, pantry needed restriction, see next.
// Wants to snack all the time, but already kind of a picky eater at meals.
// Pretty good with utencils, right? :)
// Copies his big sis all the time.
// Terrorizes his big sis all the time, only means to half the time.
// Loves Winnie, but is still learning to be gentle.
// Loves to be read to. Starting to pay attention to each page longer.
// Independent and fearless. If I don't see him or hear him, it's time to chase.
// Starting to get attached to his mommy. I love it!

Gwen

// PM kindergartner in Ms. Miller's class. We had our first teacher conferences this evening. The video is from last Friday when I volunteered in class. This was waiting before school started.

// She's doing great, learning so much so quickly, making lots of friends.

// We've had multiple playdates with different friends from school, one was even a boy... named Jackson who she has been telling me about since school started. He is a cute kid and has "very cool hair," gelled up like a T-bird :)

// She loves to color and make books, draw pictures, write letters.

// Loves reading books too. It's the most amazing thing to watch your child learn to write letters and start recognizing them and reading them in books.

// Wants to be a teacher when she grows up.

// She is a picky eater. I don't think it's extreme, but it can be frustrating.

// Does like green beans, calls herself the 'green bean girl.'

// Still throws tantrums...over the smallest things. Sometimes both kids are screaming at once, priceless.

// Very emotional, dramatic. I think it's mainly with me (or the rest of her family). Ms. Miller, Jen both say she's a total dear.

// Taking swim lessons right now on Monday nights, at her request.

// Only sweet with her brother half the time. Either she'd rather play alone or he's totally ruining her life and she doesn't want to be his sister anymore. Geesh.

// I felt like we had a breakthrough with it recently. We'll see if it holds.

// Still loves horses, her dollhouse, playing make-believe (kitchen, school, store)

// But the 'want, want, want' at this age is extreme. Already wants to box up all her bday toys to make room for the new xmas ones. Double geesh.

// Snores at night, sleeps with an open mouth, and is waking up once a night often, probably because of breathing issues. We're not sure yet. We discussed with pediatrician and he wondered about allergies, so we've started with a nasal spray. Seems to be helping.

// Love watching her grow up and mature. It's amazing and magical.

I'm such a lucky mama. Although, it's normal to be tickled pink one minute and pulling my hair out the next, right? :)

trick or treat!

2010-11-09T10:36:00.001-08:00

painting a pumpkin is much more fun (and safe!) for a 5-yr. old

2010-10-31T19:08:00.000-07:00

Life grows on.

2010-10-27T18:28:00.000-07:00

The header image was taken at Grandpa Bob's funeral, at the cemetery looking up from his grave. I was thinking about how he will help give life to this massive tree. How he gave life to all of us standing there around the circle. I can't help but think about him every day. I know we all are, Gwen just told me again that she missed him and feels bad he can't go up to the cabin anymore. I told her he will always be there, looking down on us.

Earlier this week, Anne's grandfather passed away, resurfacing emotions that are not that deep right now. It's ironic and sad that we are dealing with the same feelings right now, but it's also very helpful and reassuring. Thank goodness for friends and family, and for our little kiddos. They do such a good job at filling up the holes in our heart! Or rather, distracting us almost completely so we don't have any time to be sad :)

A real homecoming

2010-10-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

So fun to get these guys all together again.
Old roomies; Kyle, Jacob, Matt, Jeremy, and Andy.

The Edin kiddos were not in the mood for a photo, but it's still sweet.

Bowerman's hadn't been to a game in 7 years!

This past weekend Jen, Andy, and little Lila Bowerman came for a visit. They had yet to meet Emmett or see our country home in the woods, and it had been years since they tailgated and went to a game in the Bighouse. (Andy didn't even have a sweatshirt!) Here are my photos.

The weather could not have been more perfect. Game day was fun and busy (keeping our little ones corralled), bittersweet without G.Bob, but so nice to have old friends back together. After tailgating, the guys headed to the game, while the mamas headed back to our place. Heather, Kele, and kids met us there making for even more adorable playtime all afternoon.

Sunday, we joined the Bowerman's on a campus tour, walking the Diag, buying the required Pizza House chipatis. Another gorgeous day. Later that afternoon we stopped by our local Alexander's Market and picked up pumpkins. Gwen painted hers blue! More photos of that later. Late afternoon, she and I snuck out for a jump on the neighbor's trampoline. Phew! I'm tired just typing it all, but it was completely lovely.

Robert McLeod 1924 - 2010

2010-10-11T20:23:00.000-07:00

Things took a turn for the worse last week and Grandpa Bob passed away late Wednesday night. It's been an extremely emotional week, a strange combination of highs and lows. Enjoying the fall color and sunshine with my children, planning for Gwen's birthday party, and then thinking about the loss of my beloved grandpa. Today was his funeral. Surreal and sad, yet full of love and thankfulness for such a wonderful family that is as close as we are because of Grandpa Bob's love and traditions.

I decided to go through all of my digital pics and put together a slideshow. The music is a piece by Rachmaninoff that he and I both loved. I was honored to have such an intelligent, brave, talented, funny, generous, and loving grandfather. I will do my best to hold fast and carry on the legacy he created.

Gwen's 5th Birthday

2010-10-11T18:56:00.000-07:00

We had a perfect fall day for Gwen's birthday party yesterday. I realized recently that this is one of those ultimate birthdays; where she is completely and totally giddy about it, where new friends from school come and in ten years we'll look back at these photos and gush, where she will actually remember it for years to come. I think it turned out beautifully, and I think Gwen would agree. There was unspoken sadness about Grandpa Bob, and many in the family had to leave for the visitation, but I tried to focus on the positive. Grandpa Bob shaped who and what we are today and my little ones are living on for him. Boy, do we do it in style. Nice job on that treehouse Jacob! >> Photos Here

(oh, and that UM/MSU game)

2010-10-11T17:31:00.000-07:00

A lovely football Saturday. Too bad U-M could not pull off a win :(

Grandpa Bob & Jojo

2010-10-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

As most of you have read about on Facebook, Grandpa Bob and Jojo are both in the hospital right now. Grandpa Bob was having intestinal issues for the last many months, and a bout of it last year. The doctors couldn't figure out what was causing it. Sunday, after the Bowling Green game, he was extremely weak and ill, but it wasn't until Monday when Susie and John rushed him to the hospital. They put him into an emergency 'exploratory' surgery to determine what was going on. Apparently, there was a large hole in his stomach that had created an infection throughout his system! The bacteria had ruined his colon and it had to be removed :( So, the days following the surgery were very scary and, really, we're all still very concerned but he's been improving throughout the week and he's now breathing on his own! The hole was likely caused by Celebrex, arthritis medicine. How did his doctors not put this together? Sigh.

And then ironically, Jojo began experiencing serious pains in her heart. She has always had an irregular heartbeat, but things had exaggerated. They admitted her, did a catheterization, found a large blockage (which will be treated by medicine), but then also put her into surgery for a pacemaker. I'm not sure what type of procedure that entails, but she's doing well and may even be home now.

It's been a very emotional week, thinking about what my grandparents mean to me and to my family, and what it could be like to lose them. I'm still worried about my aunts and uncles and the logistics of what needs to get figured out in the months to come. Thank goodness our family is large and full of support. Love will save the day!

ArtPrize 2010

2010-10-03T19:36:00.000-07:00

On Rex's b-day, Sept. 26th, Gwen and I drove over to Grand Rapids to join the family, celebrate with Rex, and explore ArtPrize. I blogged about it on the Qrator.

Sprinkle! Sprinkle!

2010-09-27T09:28:00.000-07:00

Heather & her ladies

Krista (middle) presented her very chic Stella & Dot stuff.

Last Sunday, I hosted (with lots of help from Kele!) a baby "sprinkle" for Heather. It was a lovely day, so many lovely ladies (four pregnant!). I'm so excited for this new round of babies. Besides the wee cuteness, the mamas will now understand what it's like to have more than one!

Uh oh

2010-09-16T10:06:00.000-07:00

Emmett is totally hooked on the 'bah-bah' (bottle)! Yes, we are technically late in trying to wean him from it and I know this is one of the main reasons. But...this will probably be our last baby so we've hung on to it more for us than him...up until now. The kid loves the bottle, maybe because he can bite onto the nipple and carry it around hands-free! Sometimes, he won't put it down and you can't pull it away. Um.

We aren't totally off-track with him. He's been drinking from a sippy for a long time, but only at meal times. He still gets a morning, bedtime, and occasional mid-day bottle. It was just this week I thought I should try to make the full switch. I went into his room in the morning with a sippy and he literally chucked it across the room!! Oops, wrong approach. So today I went in without anything and it went ok, until 10 minutes later he started asking for the bah-bah. I offered the sippy and he was seriously irked again. Eventually, he got over it and at breakfast, he drank from the sippy. So, I know we'll get there, I just hope I don't get a sippy in the face before it happens. Doh!

Image credit: Some random site found with Google image search, what a hoot!

Birthday Weekend

2010-09-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we celebrated my birthday (again!) with Anne, Justin & Toren. Dinner at the Tavern and more chocolate cake! Saturday, Gwen and I went to Ava's 5th b-day party in Ann Arbor. They started out by making fairy houses at the Emerald Dragonfly, a gallery/boutique type place in Kerrytown. The set-up was so gorgeous, I was as giddy as Gwen. And we were able to create together which was so fun. Then cake and coffee at Zingerman's, followed by playtime (and gametime for the parents) back at Julie's. Sunday, we headed west to Portland for Barrett's big day, birthday #4! This year a dino-themed party, complete with a dinosaur dig and (baking soda/vinegar) volcanoes in the sandboxes. Great weather, great times.

A few photos from the weekend: Fairies | Dinosaurs

And I got a camera with a flash!

2010-09-10T13:32:00.001-07:00

The First 'Real' Day of Kindergarten!

2010-09-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was an hour-long orientation which Jacob and I attended, so today was the real thing! We had a photoshoot this morning, of course. Gwen picked out the cutest new dress for the occasion and I suggested the cowgirl boot pairing. I decided to start a tradition with the first day pics :) How cute is that?!

This morning she was kind of grumpy, saying she didn't want to go; she was feeling nervous and shy, but 20 minutes later she was over it and ready to get her new outfit on. She is in the afternoon class, so I went up to daycare on my lunch hour to send her off on her first bus ride. Gwen was totally worry-free while we waited. When the bus finally pulled up, she was so excited she almost started running towards it. Then she slowed down and wanted me to hold her hand and walk with her. It was priceless. She never looked back after getting onboard. I can't wait to hear how the day went. I think she's going to love school. I got a little emotional thinking about things today, but mostly I am just a happy mama, proud and excited for my little girl.

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-07T10:20:00.000-07:00

Kindergarten Open House

2010-09-01T17:56:00.001-07:00

We stopped at the school for the open house last night, before my birthday dinner out. Gwen met her teacher, Ms. Miller, who is currently the substitute but has applied for the position. Lots of reshuffling in the last few weeks there. She is a very sweet, young EMU graduate who's been working in a local preschool. We witnessed a few different children, who knew her from preschool, run in and give her hugs. Very reassuring. I think she'll be great and I really hope they offer her the job. Gwen already adores her and now can't wait to start....next Tuesday...wow!

the local ice cream shoppe

2010-08-29T18:53:00.001-07:00

One of the few places you can be right on Whitmore Lake.
No public beach :(

A sweet ending to a summer weekend @ home.

Old School Shootout

2010-08-26T10:53:00.001-07:00

A little b-ball action. Jay raised over $10K in honor of his father to go towards the scholarship fund.

Cute photo of Jacob and Emmett saying hello to Todd Fowler.

Brody Brya, who was only a week old at the same time last year.

Gwen, Molly, and Gabbie had a great time playing all afternoon.

so you'd think 'upgrade' would be an improvement

2010-08-25T08:52:00.000-07:00

I plugged my phone in the other day and clicked yes to the os upgrade. Um, oops. Now my computer won't recognize any of my phone pics. After a little online research, it was clear that this is a known bug. Ugh and grr. Sorry bloggies, you're going to have to go without very many visuals from me in the next few weeks, until Apple can remedy this in another upgrade. I haven't figured out a workaround yet. I can email photos to myself or blog from my phone, but the larger albums will have to wait. I do have a birthday next week, maybe the time is ripe for a new point-n-shoot. So, who loves their camera, what is it, and why? :)

Coming Along!

2010-08-14T12:47:00.001-07:00

WARNING: Cutie Patootie Overload!!!

2010-08-09T19:25:00.000-07:00

Following Zack's wedding weekend, Britta and I spent the whole week together at the cabin with our kids. They are such an adorable, rowdy, entertaining bunch. It was so sweet and so exhausting at the same time. Meal times seemed to be the most chaotic (and for Brit, potty training the girls!) Other than that, lots of playtime, swimming, hot tubbing, golf cart rides, trips down to Jojo and Bubby's, cartoons, movies, ice cream, and yes cocktails! I loved having so much time with my kids. I tried to soak it all up and enjoy every minute. The kids sure did. I took quite a few photos, it was hard not to with so many cutie pies all over the place!

Zack's Wedding

2010-08-08T18:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Jacob's old roommate Zack was married in Traverse City on the Old Mission Peninsula. It was so much fun; a gorgeous location (hosted by Carter at his summer place!), great friends, an overnight away without the kids. I was actually way too excited. Got me in trouble late night (why do I think shots of tequila are so much fun? sigh), but regardless I made it to the end almost and it was such a great time. Zack and Mandy were so sweet, he's always making her laugh. Corey's best man speech had us all cracking up. The evening was very intimate and laid back. We had such a blast dancing the night away. Thanks to the Bowerman's for letting us stay the night; they were literally up the hill from Carter's. We were honored, getting to meet and spend time with little Lila. Looking forward to many more events with them in the future now that they're in Michigan to stay! And, thanks to Dad & Trina for watching the kids. What a treat for everyone!

Melissa shared her party photos today. They took over where mine left off :) Here are two that need to be shared.

Carter and the ladies (with flash and in focus)

This one totally cracks me up because I had been thinking I hadn't spent much time with Kurt the whole night. Apparently I did!

Gwen's New Do!

2010-07-31T04:44:00.000-07:00

Gwen's New Do

So cute, so grown up...

A visit to P-town

2010-07-30T18:31:00.000-07:00

Portland 6.25.10

Some photos from a few weekends ago, a quick trip to Portland for Rachel Miller's baby shower (just found out she had a baby girl, Calliope Aurora!). Rex watched Emmett over at Monica's parents place. We had lots of fun playing in their yard (I was playing with my new photo app!), and we joined them for dinner at Duke's afterwards. And to finish the night right, we stopped at Brit's on the way out of town. Just couldn't resist :)

still for a sec

2010-07-27T17:46:00.001-07:00

Visiting the other Edin's

2010-07-22T19:04:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we went up north to visit Anne, Justin, and Toren. They are renting a cabin across the street from Mullett Lake, a short drive (or bike, the way Kiki rolls) to the U-M Biostation where she works in the summer. My goodness is it lovely up there. My photos!

Going for a swim in Mullett Lake.

Bug camp, seems like a good time :)

Also able to visit my co-worker Christine who was with her husband Keith who teaches creative writing at the Biostation.

Totally Toren

We kept ourselves totally busy, swimming, biking, swimming, a trip to the Station, grilling, and boating. We rented a pontoon and went way up the channel, ate lunch at a restaurant dockside, and continued north through a lock and to the edge of Lake Huron! And, I did some waterskiing on the way back! Wowzas! More photos soon...

Boat boys

The weather wasn't perfect, but we didn't let that stop us!

The lock was like Star Wars, the trash compactor. 16' of depth change!

Kensington Playdate

2010-07-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, we had a perfect playdate at Kensington Lake Park. Great weather, great friends, great waterslides! Gotta love summertime...