Live life like you mean it!

Christmas trees, oh my!

2011-12-08T20:51:00.001-08:00

After wavering back and forth about whether we wanted to deal with a Christmas tree or not; and if so, whether to go big or little; we decided to just bite the bullet and go for it. Toddlers or not, it's just not Christmas without the tree. (And now that I'm sitting here enjoying the glistening light of my tree and breathing it's sweet scent, I'm glad that we did it:))

So for the seventh year, Geoff and I traveled to our favorite little tree farm outside of Troutdale to find the perfect tree. And thanks to our dandy little elves, we had great success!

Our little Eden...

Helping daddy search...

Sorry Haley, someone already got that one...

Ta-da! We found it!

Now to tackle the next step of training two curious toddlers not to topple the tree! Step one- no ornaments, just lights. I find that it's still quite enjoyable. We'll consider some more trimmings in a few days! I'll keep you posted...

Dear old St. Nick

2011-12-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

The girls have been learning about Santa for the past couple weeks. We've been reading books with him in it and he sits on our mantel. They've gotten really good at their "ho ho ho's" and get excited when they spot his picture somewhere. Unfortunately the emotions changed when it came to meeting the real Santa. When they first spotted him, out came the new learned "ho ho ho." As we got closer, though, the jolly elf anxiety set in. Eden knew something was up and had already started to tear up before she made into Santa's lap. Poor Santa was a dear man and felt so bad about the crying toddler. I, on the other hand, was fully expecting a meltdown, and kind of wanted to have the classic tear- jerking pic! Mean mama, I know:) At least I'm honest! You'll be happy to know that she quickly settled once she was back with mom and dad munching on some crackers. All were satisfied!

December bluebird ski day?

2011-12-07T20:13:00.000-08:00

In the midst of the crazy summer trauma season and the winter respiratory season, lies a lull in the pediatric medical world... Patient census lowers, meaning fewer nurses are needed. The result? Unplanned days off! An extra special treat when a grandma is present and available for childcare... One such day happened to occur this last Sunday. So I barely twisted my husband's arm before we were off to the mountain for a glorious morning- just the two of us! Mt Hood sat above the clouds in all it's blue sky and windless splendor. It couldn't have been more lovely. It was hard to believe that we were skiing in December wearing just our soft shells! Rather than pay the exorbitant prices for lift tickets, I shocked Geoff by suggesting we skin to the top of the Palmer and ski down. (For non- extreme outdoorsy people, skinning is just hiking with skis on. You stick a grippy traction "skin" to the bottom of your skis that allows you to climb straight up the mountainside.) Thanks to our intense P90X workouts, I made it to the top with plenty of energy to enjoy my ski back down- the best part! Two hours up to ski back down in twenty minutes sounds crazy, I know... But it was oh so worth it! I found that I enjoyed my run down that much more.

Heading out...

You can just barely see the top of the lifts on the top left. That's where we are headed!

Water break at the Silcox hut with Mt. Jefferson in the distance. It was so clear out, we could see all the way down to the Three Sisters!

Geoff- nuff said!

The top! Note the snow cat behind me. My trip up was solely man powered, thank you very much! I was quite proud of myself:) I'm looking forward to the next time!

Cousin time!

2011-12-07T19:41:00.000-08:00

After spending almost every day together through the spring and summer, the girls and their cousin have built a pretty special bond. It's really fun to watch them transition into being able to all play together. We had Kaelynn over for a couple days last week. The girls got to catch up, love on each other, and of course, relearn some hard lessons of learning how to share!

An Autumn walk...

2011-12-07T19:32:00.000-08:00

Nurses loose in Vegas!

2011-12-07T16:50:00.000-08:00

No kids; no husbands; two mamas loose in Vegas for three nights! How you ask? Work of course! A dear friend, RaeAnn, and I headed to the desert for a nursing conference in early November. Our collective four girls were left at home with their daddies as we took in the city that never sleeps. It was my first experience in Vegas- my senses were definitely stimulated! The conference was enriching, but the night life was the highlight... We made the most of our short stay, packing it with high calorie food, fantastical performances, and of course- dancing.

I'm never one to pass up a tequila fix, so Margaritaville was a must! *Looking at the Venetian from the Montage.

At the suggestion of a few different people, we went to see the Beatles Love performance by Cirque de Soleil- amazing!!!

Livin' it up!

It was a great trip, but we were ready to go home at the end... The fresh air of the northwest was calling, along with our beloved families.

Doggin' it!

2011-12-07T16:20:00.000-08:00

Fall is definitely my favorite time of year. The days aren't as hot, but the sun is still visible in the sky. It makes for a great hiking weather. Now that the girls are more durable- we have been getting out to enjoy this beautiful place we live in. Tired of the same old hikes, we decided to go somewhere new... with a challenge. About an hour and a half out of Portland is Dog Mountain. As we learned, it is definitely not for the faint of heart. It's pretty much straight up and straight down. The first couple of miles are in the trees and a bit monotonous, but the pay off views higher up are definitely worth it!

Our little troopers- snack time at the top was much needed to fill some bellies and stretch some legs!

Our first viewpoint! Cold and windy, but oh so gorgeous!

Family shots are a bit challenging these days!

Meow!

2011-10-23T19:35:00.000-07:00

The Joys of Parenting!

2011-10-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are about to read this that are squeamish or disgusted by the topic of poop, you should probably pass this post by... But due to the fact that I am a nurse, a mother of two toddlers, and- have married into the Lodge family, poop is a very comfortable typical topic...

So tonight, we had a very exciting milestone! One of our dear daughters pooped on the toilet! Granted, it was only due to the fact that I saw the signs, while she was in the tub and promptly sat her on said throne. As I was so proud of myself for avoiding another joyous tub clean-up, I turned around only to find my other daughter holding in her hand a lovely nugget of her own! Oh the joys of being a parent! All I can do is laugh and know it's just all in a day of my life now:)

October calls...

2011-10-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

20+ lbs of toddler

4.8 miles of trail, roundtrip

1450 ft of elevation gain

endless blue sky

Today we went on our first hike as a family. The sun was shining and Angel's Rest was calling...

The girls were so excited to be in their new backpacks! They jibber jabbered most of the way up..

We were rewarded with a picnic at the top with great views...

Followed by some first lessons in rock climbing!

Haley, especially, was tearing it up! So cute!

Honey Bees & Pumpkins

2011-10-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

Introducing the newest little Lenssen

2011-10-17T19:56:00.000-07:00

The new official cousin count:

3 girls

1 boy

Reid Joseph, we wish you all the luck in the world! You have much to overcome in the gaggle of screaming girls... I have a feeling you'll more than hold your own, though!

Sisters are the best!

2011-10-17T19:38:00.000-07:00

Down and dirty!

2011-10-17T18:49:00.000-07:00

The end of August brought our long awaited first family camping trip. Though it required a lot of extra planning and organizing, it was so great to get out of the house and enjoy some good old clean fun! Geoff spent most of August and September up in the North Cascades, so we made our home base in Leavenworth... We day-tripped it to Lake Chelan, Wenatchee Lake and got in lots of bavarian park time. All in all, I'd say it was a success. We're looking forward to many more family camping adventures to come.

Tips for camping with two 15 month olds:

*A bucket and a spoon makes for many happy hours of playing in the dirt.

*Don't leave your garbage bag of dirty diapers and spaghetti leftovers outside at night... unless of course you want some rambunctious late night visitors!

*Dirt is more than just an accessory!

*And bath time is never optional!

These pictures just don't do justice for how dirty these kids really are!

Haley & Eden, mixing up some grub... *Haley enjoying a morning cup of coffee:)

We'll never be able to say no again!

2011-10-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

Watch out world! We've got walkers!

2011-09-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

Within the last month our world has gone to the next level! Eden took her first official steps the end of August and Haley followed a couple weeks later... There's nothing cuter than the robotic toddling of a little munchkin!

Haley & Eden are 1!

2011-06-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

First Birthday at the Zoo!

2011-06-04T14:32:00.000-07:00

What better way to spend a first birthday, than with the monkeys and elephants at the zoo?! In spite of the fact that it was one of the first hot and sunny Saturdays of the year, I decided to brave the masses and take my daughters to the zoo to ring in their first year... Of course I took along some willing helpers and my niece. I'm proud to say that we made it through the afternoon without any sunburns and all the kids (and helpers) were successfully worn out, but happy.

Daisy picking...

2011-05-31T21:50:00.000-07:00

Spring Vacay at the Beach!

2011-05-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

With all this rain, rain, and more rain, my cabin fever has been exponential this year! The sun peaks out for a day, only to plummet behind the clouds for another week of dreary drippy weather... So... sick... of... it!!! With that said, I needed something to look forward to. Geoff has been ramping up into guide season; Rhiannon headed across the country to visit family and friends; and I found myself home with the girls on a full five day stretch off from work! It was definitely enough encouragement to high tail it to the beach for a few days of r & r, rain or shine. My mom joined us on our favorite little bit of the Oregon coast. We did nothing but play on the beach, read books, go for walks, and eat good food. And the best part? The clouds parted and the sun came out every day! There was little wind and I was even in short sleeves most of the time!

Beach babes!

Playing in sand for the first time! Amazing stuff... Fortunately, none went in the mouth!

Some friendly game playing...

Afternoon walk... Haley tried out her climbing grip on the bridge:)

Ham bones!

"Mommy, mommy, there are frogs in the tub!"

2011-05-15T18:44:00.000-07:00

The Black Knight lives for another day!

2011-05-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

Remember the Black Knight? Well, it's making a comeback! It's been completely gutted and deconstructed and is now in the process of revival... In hopes of making it's grand return to the roads and campgrounds early this summer. Geoff has been going to town on our little Shasta trailer every spare moment. He's motivated by the thought of not having to sleep in the back of his truck all summer and the hope of having some little visitors come and stay with him while he's out for long stretches. We're pretty excited about our new addition and how fast it's coming together!

Putting new siding up before it gets insulated and recovered with tin...

The spabby new tiled flooring...

To be continued....

Random... but so funny!

2011-05-08T14:58:00.000-07:00

Easter chicks!

2011-05-08T14:46:00.000-07:00

Rhiannon had to work Easter weekend, so the three girls and I headed south to grandma's for the weekend. It was nice to get out of town and have a change of scenery...

Too cool for school!

2011-05-08T14:36:00.000-07:00

Just a taste!

2011-05-08T13:27:00.000-07:00

Not for the faint of heart...

2011-05-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

With Geoff heading into the thick of guide season and Steve gone in Iraq, Rhiannon and I have had our hands overflowing with little girls and everything that comes with them. In spite of the help of a nanny a day a week and many hours of grandma support, we are undeniably exhausted, but truly triple-y blessed. It's so special that our girls are getting to bond at such an early age and learn some of life's most important lessons together... Like "life isn't fair" and how to share. Even though I get to the end of the day exhausted and ready to drop, I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Mid Spring Trek

2011-04-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

From January through early April, Geoff spent two to three days a week on the other side of the mountains helping out in his company office located in Bend. The girls and I finally got to join him the end of March, along with his family, for some much needed rest and relaxation in one of our favorite little towns. We partook in the wealth of good brew pub food, got a little climbing in, and of course made a visit to the snow. The Lodge boys and I took advantage of the company snow-mobile and headed out for a quiet little like where we could get in some snow shoeing and back-country skiing.

The mighty drivers... Ty definitely wins for most exciting behind the throttle! For the record, sno-mo's aren't meant to drive up the snow plow embankment... Just a little tumble action, but no bumps or bruises!

While Geoff and I headed up the hillside for some fearless back country action, T made himself at home in a cozy little snow cave.

Me and da boys!

Fun trip! Much needed get away... More than a little depressing to come home to the rain after a long weekend of sun mixed with snow showers... No doubt, Bend holds a special place in our hearts!

Get your party pants on!

2011-03-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

Snotty noses and all, these girls are ready to party... We got hit pretty hard with the respiratory madness that's going around. Although it did slow us down, it didn't stop the girls from keeping up with their social calendar... Who can pass up two birthday parties in one weekend? Here they are all gussied up for their cousin Kaelynn's 2nd birthday.

Who says breakfast can't be both fun & delicious?!

2011-03-30T07:19:00.000-07:00

Blueberries and oatmeal just taste better when they're all over your face... Try it sometime!

Hittin' it!

2011-03-25T16:19:00.000-07:00

After months and days of pining for the mountain, the stars aligned and Geoff and I got two days away in one week to hit the slopes. It was like welcoming a long lost friend... Not to mention, I finally got to break in my new sticks! I was happy to discover that even after almost two years away from the slopes, I've still got it!

Our little Haley Lizard

2011-03-05T12:40:00.000-08:00

This will crack you up!

Mommy-Mobile!

2011-03-05T10:33:00.000-08:00

After nine months of cramming the whole family, plus dog and stuff into our little Jetta, we finally said, "enough is enough!" Driving the "new" ride around for the last couple weeks, I admit I hardly miss my little car- with an exception of those cozy heated seats on the ice cold mornings.... But to just be able to clip the girls in the back without having to move the seats forward; not having to drive around like Cruella Deville with my knees against the steering wheel; and a place for the dog and a stroller in the back! What a concept!

Goodbye little car... It's been a good long ride...

Hello to the family friendly mommy-mobile!

First flight...

2011-02-09T21:34:00.000-08:00

When I was a little girl, I found great joy in swinging for hours on end... To this day, I find it hard to resist a good fly through the air. And so, I was eager to see if my girls are going to have the same delight in swinging. The verdict? Giggles and smiles mixed with a few moments of uncertainty- but overall, a success!

Playtime!

2011-02-09T21:03:00.000-08:00

7 months!

2011-01-02T20:57:00.000-08:00

The tale of many Christmas'...

2010-12-31T20:50:00.000-08:00

Christmas always seems to be a bit of whirlwind around the Lodge house. Now that we are a new little family of four, we decided to start building some traditions of our own. We spent Christmas morning at home, just the four of us- it was so special to see Christmas morning through the eyes of two little munchkins... That time was sandwiched between lots of celebrations with our extended families throughout the two weeks around Christmas. It was a fun holiday season, though exhausting. And the girls definitely passed gift unwrapping 101!

We went to the coast for a few days with my family... The girls got to try out their new Christmas jammies from Grandma:)

On our way home from the beach, we swung through Albany to celebrate with Grandpa Tom & Grandma Janet and all of Geoff's siblings.

Christmas morning at home... enjoying some of the fun new toys!

Christmas afternoon with Grandma Lynn and Geoff's siblings...

Before... and after!

2010-12-18T20:46:00.000-08:00

Ugly sweater contest at work... This is my most amazing weekend crew:)

Work Christmas party at P:ear... We clean up good don't we?!

The tradition continues...

2010-12-04T20:30:00.000-08:00

Even though my life is just a tad bit more hectic, there was no way I was going to cut out one of my favorite holiday traditions- our annual Christmas party... Thanks to the help of our dear party-goers, it was once again a great success!

My main two helpers with one of my favorite accessories!

Dabbling in the spread: D-lish-ous!!!

New comers- Wade and his beautiful wife, Elizabeth... flanked by Jared and Darcie.

The ladies... Wait!.. is that a male species tainting our pic? Nice, Steve!
I sure do loooove these girls!

Merry Merry Christmas!

2010-12-02T11:37:00.000-08:00

Oh Christmas Tree!

2010-11-29T16:48:00.000-08:00

We didn't waste any time this year getting Christmas started. The morning after Thanksgiving we loaded up and headed off to Oxbow Rim Tree farm for our sixth year in a row for the perfect Christmas tree. I'm proud to say that there was no Griswold worthy trek to find a mighty fir in the midst of a snowy field... But rather, a record setting five minutes to find the tree, cut it down, and hall it to the truck. It took more time getting the girls out of their car seats and bundled than it did to get the tree! Nonetheless, it was so fun taking part in this yearly tradition as a family of four!

Bundled and ready... We stayed in our fleecy jammies so we'd stay warm... Glad we did since it was a rather drizzly day.

Eden helped Daddy cut down the tree and hall it to the truck... What a good little helper!

Every thing's more fun when you have a munchkin strapped to you!

Family self portrait... Classic!

Girls day!

2010-11-29T16:36:00.000-08:00

It's not often that I get to spend a whole day with four of my most favorite girls in the world... So when I do, I count myself blissfully blessed! Sal came into town for Thanksgiving and I got to steal her away to myself for a whole day! Becka and her beautiful baby bump were able to join us for the afternoon. We had lots of laughs and soaked up each other's company... I can hardly believe that in a few short months there will be four babies at our get-togethers! We'll be officially outnumbered!

There is definitely no shortage of people to love these girls!

Becka darling! Over half way there! Can't wait for her little ones to come out and play! *My dear Sally... My girls and I are so lucky to have her in our lives!

Our little gobblers!

2010-11-29T16:03:00.000-08:00

What better time to introduce cereal for the first time than the holiday of eating?! Thanksgiving week, the girls had their first taste of rice cereal. They were a little suspicious at first... but now can't slurp it down fast enough. It's a new messy delight in our house!

Ready and waiting... What for? They haven't a clue... but it's gotta be good!

Wait! Was this a trick? We're not so sure about this gooey stuff you're shoving in our mouths!

Oh all right... I'll give it another go...

I think I like rice cereal! Yes, I believe I do!

Haley, Eden, and the Bee

2010-10-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

"What is it?!"

"I don't know, but it has really googly eyes!"

"Aaaaahhh!"

"You sure showed him!"

Peas, Peppers, & Pumpkins... Oh my!

2010-10-27T14:59:00.000-07:00

To the pumpkin patch we go! Veggies never looked so cute! If these pics don't get you to eat your greens, I don't know what will...

Coastal Global Warming

2010-10-27T13:51:00.000-07:00

I finished out the last weekend of my maternity leave by trekking out to the coast for our annual birthday bash celebration with my family. This year, my grandma joined Grandpa, Steve, and I for a real threat to global warming with 233 years to celebrate! Up until a couple years ago, we used to have a candle for every year... But due to a few too many singed knuckles and overly waxy cake frosting, we started just putting the number on the cake. Nonetheless, it was a successful celebration and a great end to my summer of mommy-hood!

Some deck-side sightseers... *Daddy daughter duty!

Me and my momma!

The Whitney's and one of their two ferocious pooches!

The main event!! The chocolate cake we wait for all year long! A 30 year long tradition... for me at least (Minus the year mom thought she'd get us an ice cream cake for Dairy Queen... It didn't go over very well!).

Mommy and her girls... One last meal before night time slumbers. *No, we're not spoiled at all! All that beach time and football watching is exhausting!

The boys working a puzzle while listening to the game- Ducks vs. the Cougs. With a house full of Pullman grown Cougars, there was some great tension! *Our resident entertainers... The next generation of card sharks!

Our wily bunch... minus the five dogs!

Ode to the twenties...

2010-09-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

Here's to a decade of nostalgic memories, numerous candid moments, and the metamorphosis of child to adult. Definitely my favorite decade to date... But, I must admit I'm eagerly looking forward to the many years to come!

Highlights by the year:
20- The year I met the man of my dreams and sunk my hook!
21- I finally got my dream of being a city girl and moved to Portland.
22- So many great and crazy memories with the best roommates ever: Annie & Kathryn
23- I graduated from nursing school and moved to an even bigger city, striking out on my own in Seattle. Probably one of my hardest and most fulfilling years- definitely a defining year in my life!
24- I moved back to P-town, eager to be closer to family and of course my man!
25- The year I promised to love and cherish my husband for the rest of my life, on a most beautiful cloudless day on Mt. Hood.
26- I learned that I love to garden... in the footsteps of my grandpa and my mom. Only, I require gloves- I hate dirty hands!
27- The year of the great Arctic Blast! (I couldn't help but include this!) We skied off our porch and down to the park- so fun! Oh, and I became an aunt!
28- I found out that my life would be changing forever by two precious little babies growing inside me...

29- I became a mommy! The most wonderful and amazing experience to date!

And now onto thirty! I'm really excited for what the next ten plus years will bring. No crisis here, just a little weirded out by the fact that my twenties are over. How did that happen?! Regardless, here I am on the cusp of a whole new world. I love my new found identity of motherhood. Everyone always says it changes you, but you can't fully grasp it until you're in it. Here's to many more memories to come with my precious little family!

Sister secrets!

2010-09-16T12:58:00.000-07:00

Market Flair

2010-09-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

Oh Eugene! There is no one quite like you... with your own unique flavor and flair. I always forget until I'm back in it. The sights and smells transport me back to the locale of my youth. It's a rare combo of the leftover hippy culture mashing with university intellectuals and a heavy sprinkling of the independent free-spirited street youth. Needless to say, the Eugene Saturday Market is a great place for watching the inter workings of how these very different populations mingle.

But- I must admit... I love it! Eugene will always feel like home to me, no matter how far removed I feel I am from that atmosphere. I have too many memories wrapped up in those sights and smells...

Beautiful!

2010-08-29T11:30:00.000-07:00

I'm not a super huge Beatles fan... but this song redone by Santana and India Arie is lovely!

Eden

2010-08-24T22:32:00.000-07:00

Haley

2010-08-24T22:23:00.000-07:00

"Great" love at first sight!

2010-08-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

My grandpa and his wife came to town to meet their second and third great-grand-daughters. The girls were nothing but peaches and cream the whole visit... The second they left, it was bloody murder screaming- From peaceful slumbers to starving in the blink of an eye!

Sweetness!

2010-08-05T20:55:00.000-07:00

To Grandma & Grandpa's we go!

2010-08-05T20:36:00.000-07:00

Just chillin'

2010-08-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Celebrating 5 years as Mr. & Mrs.

2010-08-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

We celebrated in style with a night out on the town, minus the girls...

Lavender tranquility...

2010-08-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

A visit to Sauvie Island Lavender Farm... Which of course was just another change of scenery for a feeding session with the girls!

Beach babe weekend...

2010-07-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

The girls and I had our first weekend out a couple of weeks ago... We joined my mom, my sister-in-law, and her cousin for a girls weekend- oh and all of our little munchkins! It was a little chaotic, but so refreshing to get out of the house and have a change of scenery. It went better than expected and opened up my new world- realizing that getting out isn't impossible! We rented a beach house in Waldport for the weekend and then my mom and I stayed an extra two nights in Lincoln City. I'd be lying if I said the girls enjoyed the trip- they didn't know any different! As long as they get their bottles and the proper amount of snuggle time, they don't really care where they are!

Me and my girls! I love them!!!* Kaya didn't quite know what to think about all the little kids running around... It's tough going from the center of attention to the back burner!

Our view out the window... gorgeous!* Getting their fair share of love from Grandma and Aunt Rhiannon...

The older, wiser cousin, Kaelynn- turning into such a little lady... not to mention a total cheeseball!

Finally a walk on the beach... It was too cold and windy through the weekend to take the kiddos out. The wind finally died down when we went to Lincoln City so the girls could go for their first beach walk.

Eden & Haley bundled underneath piles of blankets apiece. They showed their faces briefly for pictures and then went back into their caves...

Haley, naked again... That girl goes through outfits like nobody's business!* My girls and I!

More beach pics...

Midsummer eve picnic

2010-07-28T22:43:00.000-07:00

Many of my days of late are spent cooped up inside... I always have good intention of getting out, but with endless cycles of feeding, changing diapers, and repeating times two, my days seem to constantly get away from me. Before I know it, it's evening again and time to prepare for another night of "chopped suey" sleep! One night, I was determined to get out... So we packed up the girls, some yummy dinner that was provided by a friend, a bottle of wine, and headed for a peaceful destination to enjoy the city view and some fresh air! It was just the refreshment that I needed- man, I love Portland in the summer!

5 years of memories in the making as Mr. & Mrs...

2010-07-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

Finally!...

2010-07-14T23:24:00.000-07:00

Summer has arrived!!!

The rain has subsided and the clouds have lifted... And now we get to enjoy the Pacific Northwest's crowning season- the payoff for all the rain.

Mosquito bites: the new freckle

2010-07-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

Due to the outrageous population explosion of one of summer's infamous winged pests, Portlanders are having to come to terms with a new cosmetic craze. No amount of citronella candles or toxic spray is fending off these little beasts this year. Normally I love spending summer evenings out on our patio, but after getting eaten alive last week, I've found myself spending more time indoors. A trip to the local Walgreen's for some itch relief was pointless as the shelves had been stripped clean of all itch related items by other desperate customers! Luckily, New Seasons had one lonely bottle of Calamine lotion left... Then on the news tonight, they announced that local emergency rooms have been seeing an influx of patients coming in with inflammatory responses to mosquito bites! Crazy! Its not like we live in the midst of high mountain lakes! And so I've come to the conclusion, like it or not, that Mosquito bites are this seasons latest craze. Don't be surprised if they grace the cover of next months Cosmo as the new freckle!

Look at us bloom!

2010-07-02T12:16:00.000-07:00

Already 4 weeks wise to the world!

Eden Joy... 6 lbs 5 oz & 20 inches

Haley Lynden... 7 lbs 6 oz & 20 1/2 inches

Modeling their flower headbands made with love by Aunt Alex...

Serious intervention needed!

2010-06-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

"Hi, my name is Julia and I'm an addict..."

It started out innocent enough, but in the last few weeks it's reached critical levels! I'm quite confident that it's just going to keep getting worse before it gets better. This isn't a cry for help- just an acknowledgment that I've reached epic proportions! It's moved from being a craving and a want to a survival tactic and a need.

Yes, people, I'm a coffee addict! I've gone from a half a cup a day to three large cups in a matter of a few weeks. At this rate, I'm well on my way to drinking a full pot on my own in no time... So if I seem jittery or on edge, just blame it on the extra large caffeine fix and roll with it.

My first night out..

2010-06-30T09:57:00.000-07:00

Between the terrible weather, having to force myself to rest so my body can heal, and the constant feeding cycle, I have been feeling just a bit caged up. So when my girlfriends said they were going to see Jewel at the zoo, I didn't have to think twice about jumping on that bandwagon! I left my wee girls with Geoff for the night and headed out for some much needed big girl time!

Katie and I even got to meet Jewel! We're like best friends now!

I know I say it all the time, but I have the best friends ever. I just love them!

Jewel wrote and sang a song about our lovely city of P-town... Just had to share it:

There's a new daddy in the house!

2010-06-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's day to my wonderful husband!!!

I couldn't have been blessed with a more loving and supportive man.

Snuggle time!

2010-06-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Two Week Birthday!

2010-06-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

On Friday, the girls were two weeks old and had their first visit to the doctor... They had great weight gains during their first week at home and exceeded their birth weights!

Eden: 5 lbs. 3 oz.

Haley: 5 lbs. 13 oz.

The sleepless business of parenting...

2010-06-21T19:57:00.000-07:00

Precious moments in the shape of sleepless nights, mountains of poopy diapers, bottles upon bottles that need washing, a clothes hamper that is constantly filling with dirty little outfits... and two little girls that with every moment are working their way deeper and deeper into my heart. How is it possible to love someone so much? Nothing prepares you for the exhaustion of being a new parent. Everyone says it's rough, but until you're in it, living it and breathing it, you don't really understand. The day of the week and time of day becomes relative between the constant cycle of feeding, changing diapers, and squeezing a nap in when you get a free moment. And then, double it because there are two babies! But, it is all so totally worth it! Our first week at home has been an adventure, but our little family couldn't be happier...

Bath time! Eden is in the top pictures and Haley is below.

Eden

Home for keeps!

2010-06-21T19:06:00.000-07:00

(Geoff & Haley, Me & Eden)

On Saturday the 12th, the sun came out and the girls got their golden tickets to come home with us! After eight days in the NICU with countless drives back and forth between home and the hospital; more hospital food than I care to eat in a while; and a bucket of tears shed thanks to my out of control hormones, we got to take our girls home with us for keeps!

All crammed into our "family wagon!" The Jetta has now become a cramped two seater!

All nestled into one of the cribs... They looked like little dolls! Is it really real? Or are we just playing house?

Our little fighters!

2010-06-21T17:08:00.000-07:00

(Eden on the left & Haley on the right) They had feeding tubes for a few days, until they could prove that they could eat..

Never in a million years did I think I would be a parent of NICU (Neonatal ICU) babies. I knew that the NICU doctors might be involved and consult on my girls, but I didn't put two and two together that they could be patients in the NICU. Yes, my babies were healthy and much bigger than many of the munchkins that end up there, but it was difficult nonetheless. Thankfully, my room was just a short walk from where the girls were staying all nestled and warm in their incubators. We could visit them as often as we wanted around the clock. Holding our girls was limited to feeding times only to keep stimulation to a minimum and rest to a maximum. Initially the doctor said our stay could be as long as three weeks! But both girls proved to be fighters and within a week were able to hold their temperatures and eat healthy sized meals.

Our doll baby, Eden. The littler of the two, but a fighter! She's going to be our go getter for sure.

Haley, our little ham. She's already looking to be the drama queen!

I have to say, that in spite of having to be in the hospital, we couldn't have asked for better support. We were overwhelmed with all of the people that are in place to help new families be successful and supported during the hospital stay and into the transition home. I would much rather be the nurse, than the patient or family, but was impressed with how smoothly our system runs. I'm even more proud to be a part of such a great hospital now that I've been on the other side. And thank you to all the friends and family that supported us through our stay. Thank you for giving us space and time to bond as a new little family.

Check out our friend Bryan's blog for more precious pics of our little ones...

The greatest gifts of all!

2010-06-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

For most, giving birth is not something you look forward to... The aftermath of having a precious new life, yes; but the process of receiving that little one or ones, no. It's a good thing that we have no choice in the matter as to when and where the labor will begin, or many of us would put it off until the last possible moment. Knowing that I was most likely going to have a C-section, was somewhat of a relief... But then there was the knowledge that I was going to be cut open and go through pretty major abdominal surgery. Either way, I was freaked out! I was ready for my girls to be here, but not wanting anything to do with the process. On Thursday, June 3rd, my doctor put me on bed rest at 34 1/2 weeks. I had been having a fair amount of contractions and she wanted to see if we could keep the girls in for at least another week. Lo and behold! Eden and Haley had other plans... They wanted out! By 9 o'clock the next morning, my water had broke and we were off to the hospital! By 11:30, we were headed to the O.R. to deliver them. And at 12:03 and 12:04, Eden and Haley came into this world. So precious, so perfect, and totally mine!

One last pose just before heading down the hall to bring my girls into the world...

I was so nervous! I did not like being tied down to the table, numb from the chest down, at the mercy of everyone in the room. I had to keep reminding myself to take deep breaths. I think I nearly squeezed Geoff's hand off!

Moments before we became parents...

Meeting both my girls for the first time! Immediately after birth, they were taken to another room where they each had two nurses assessing them. They were then moved into the Neonatal ICU, where they could be monitored closely, since they came a little early and were on the small side. I got to briefly meet them right after surgery, but then had to go back to my room to recover and have my own monitoring done... Geoff spent much of the day going back and forth between me and the girls, making sure all of his family was well cared for. It was really hard not to get to be with them and hold them like I wanted to... But thank goodness, they were safe and healthy.

And then there were four!

2010-06-07T17:01:00.000-07:00

They're here!!!
June 4, 2010
Forever our lives will be changed for the better
because of these two precious girls!

Eden Joy
12:03 pm
4 lbs 15 oz
18 inches

Haley Lynden
12:04 pm
5 lbs 10 oz
18 inches

For more birthday pics, click here!

Shower blessings!

2010-05-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I was honored and blessed by some of my very dearest friends and family. I'm overwhelmed with all the love and support that is surrounding Geoff and I as we embark on this new adventure... I am truly excited to share this next phase of my life with you all!

My lovely family by marriage... about to become six ladies strong! The Lodge boys have some catching up to do!

Jabrila: my long lost mother! A woman who has influenced and shaped my life in more ways than she knows- love her!

My sweet friend Kachina. We go way back to the seventh grade! And now we're raising babies together- so fun!

Matthew & Lena: Would you look at us now! Matthew and I were in diapers together and Lena taught me all I need to know about experimental baking! We were next door neighbors until my junior year in high school.

The Dominick ladies: a force to be reckoned with! Don't let those sweet smiles fool you! :) One of my favorite adopted families.

My girls, Sally & Becka. Need I say more? In all seasons, good or bad, these are the girls you want by your side.

Somehow, Mom and Rhiannon managed to weasel their way out of being photographed. How coincidental! Even so, my love goes out to you both as well!

For all the pics from my shower, click here.

Deep breath...

2010-05-24T09:44:00.000-07:00

As little girls, we dream about getting married to the man of our dreams, having babies, and living happily ever after. It's such a simple and carefree dream- no messes, unexpected twists, or unfulfilled expectations. In retrospect, life wouldn't be as rich and fulfilling if it didn't have messes and unexpected twists. Keep in mind, I'm not speaking of any specific events- I love my life and where I am, what I've been through... I'd do it all over again in a heart beat, the good and the bad. I got to be the blushing bride and married the man of my dreams. We've weathered some storms, but each made us stronger and more appreciative of what we've become...

Here I am five years later about to fulfill another childhood dream- by doubling our family! I'd be lying if I said I wasn't more than a little freaked out by the idea. Excited, yes! Scared, yes! The overwhelming responsibility of raising two girls up in this world is a lot to take in. I'm glad that pregnancy allows for nine months of preparation and adjusting. And then comes the home stretch... All those months of anticipation over. It's not just a "what will be," but reality. I'm truly going to be a mother. I was feeling calm and relaxed, ready for what the future holds. But now, I'm anxiously awaiting the inevitable. I know, I know, I'll be just fine. I'm more equipped than I realize. But really, who isn't scared of becoming a mother for the first time- it's healthy and normal. I'm about to have two little precious girls placed into my care... and because of that, I'm needing to stop... take a deep breath... before jumping in feet first to the rest of my life!

Doggy Wonderland!

2010-05-18T14:22:00.000-07:00

Kaya & I went up to the mountain to meet Geoff for dinner this last weekend. Kaya got to go for a much needed romp in the snow... She loved every moment of it!

In the garden...

2010-05-18T14:03:00.000-07:00

You all know how much I love to be in the garden this time of year... It's a given that on most every nice day, I'll be out planting, rearranging, and weeding. Let's just say, I've had a hard time not being out in it this year. Early on, I was able to do some winter clean-up... but not much else since. I tried to do some weeding. It only lasted about twenty minutes- all that bending and squatting was harder work than I thought it would be! So I've resorted to just enjoying, while my husband, who informed me when we bought the house that he would not be the one weeding or planting, does all the gardening. Thankfully the past few years of constant reorganizing and planting has paid off. And- thank you to my wonderful husband who has taken over the task of weeding, at the present time, without grumbling. I am so blessed to have such a hard working husband- love him!

I did get a little gardening fix by redoing all of my pots for the patio. It was definitely hard to stay on task at Portland Nursery, though. Somehow I managed to come home with only what I needed...

Cabin Fever, subdued!

2010-05-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

All the stars aligned for a picture perfect day at the beach with two of my favorite girls this last week. Not a cloud in the sky and sixty degree weather... Just what the doctor ordered to help cure my cabin fever! Mo's clam chowder, window shopping, and sandy toes- it doesn't get much better than that!

Who wouldn't want to hang out with us? We've got style!

Sun bathing... Hard to believe that next time I go to the beach, I'll probably have two little girls in tow!

I feel so blessed to have such great friends... Love these girls!

30 weeks...

2010-05-04T10:15:00.000-07:00

Pictures courtesy of Bryan Hoybook photography

Click here for more pics...

The Lodge's go vintage...

2010-05-03T17:24:00.000-07:00

We are now the proud owners of a 1950's Shasta trailer. As you can see it needs some love... but with some freshening up and a healthy dose of elbow grease, it will be a welcome addition to our family. The thought is that it will be a comfortable place for Geoff to crash in between trips up the mountain, and a comfy place for the girls and I to curl up in when we want to join him... I never thought I would be a trailer camper, but I'm thinking it just might grow on me.

The last owner, who was big into medieval reenactments, had dubbed it "the Black Knight."

Geoff has been eager to get started on his new project. I've allowed him a few days here and there in between baby preparation projects. The first task- to restore it to its original silver armor...

More updates to come...

The Lodge Ladies hit the town...

2010-05-03T17:14:00.000-07:00

A perfect day, started with the perfect cup of coffee, ended with my favorite sushi, and filled with lots of fun and great memories in between! I am blessed to have married into such a great family...

An April Shower for my June Flowers

2010-04-23T13:07:00.001-07:00

Shower season has officially begun! Last weekend I trekked up to Yakima in central Washington for a celebration with all of my extended family. It was super fun to catch up with all my aunts and grandparents... and of course to show off my new "girl"ish figure! Thanks to everyone for all of the wonderful gifts and for taking the time to come see me!

Three... well, technically four, generations! *Grandpa & I

All but two of the present party goers... I must say, this is one of our more impressive family photos, where everyone actually looks happy to be there! :)

Twin Chronicles: Easter update

2010-04-05T15:04:00.001-07:00

The name of the game is strETCH! Our girls are steadily growing (they're just under 2 pounds a piece)... as am I! It's amazing how the simplest tasks are getting more difficult. Don't ask me to bend over and tie my shoes or walk up a flight of stairs without huffing and puffing. My realization of the week? As I was sitting at our cozy little breakfast nook munching on some cereal, I realized that it was indeed a little extra cozy... Pretty soon I will be relocated to the end of the table with a chair in order to accommodate for all the strETCHing! Gotta love it! All in all, life is good, our girls are healthy, and we are starting to make room for them in our little house. Hard to believe that in a little over two months, they'll be here!

The sun peaked out for a brief moment on Easter morning in my mom's garden, so we took advantage of the opportunity. Here are my 26 week pics...

Not just a coincidence!

2010-04-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

Mom and I were just returning to the car after our walk. My bladder was about to burst and the dogs were ready to be off their leashes. One problem, the car key was nowhere to be found! Mom searched all here pockets and her purse a second time... No keys. The only thought was that they must have fallen out of her pocket when pulling out a bag to scoop my dog's unmentionable pile. My bladder was in no shape to retrace our steps. We were parked next to a senior recreation center, which is usually closed, but just happened to be open. So I went to seek out a bathroom while Mom trudged back out towards the bike path with three unruly dogs in tow. I asked to use the restroom and was rewarded (no one denies a pregnant woman in need of a bathroom!). As I was heading that way I noticed that there was a college aged girl holding something small and black in her hand while talking to the receptionist. I asked if she had found a key. Sure enough- it was the key to my mom's car! I quickly called Mom to turn back and found my way to the bathroom. If that's not proof that we have a God that cares even about the little things, I don't know what is!

Home Sweet Home

2010-04-01T19:56:00.000-07:00

Nine years ago, I packed up my car and headed north towards the big city. So excited to start my new life and get out of the small town... I have no regrets. I love my city life. But there's something to be said for packing up and going "home" for the weekend. No agenda, just good ol' mother-daughter time. And I must say, that I appreciate the small town for it's slower pace and minimal chaos much more now that I've been gone so long.

Last weekend the dog and I headed south for a weekend of rest and relaxation after a super long work week. We watched movies, played games, took naps, ate ice cream and enjoyed the peace and quiet. It was just what the doctor ordered. Nothing soothes like a good old dose of mom!

The sun came out on Saturday and we headed out to breakfast at one of my favorite restaurants from back in the day and then for a walk along the bike path... Nothing beats berry french toast and spring sunshine this time of year!

There's lots of blossoming going on this Spring!

Where, Oh where have my feet gone?!

2010-03-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

These days, it seems that my feet are a looong way down there!

Kaelynn's pearls of wisdom on turning one...

2010-03-26T17:49:00.000-07:00

The littlest Lenssen celebrated her first birthday in style with the obligatory chocolate cake!

"Birthdays are fun!"

"Chocolate cake is yummy,

but does my mom know I'm eating this?"

"I'm not sure I like the way chocolate cake squishes between my fingers!"
(She willingly held out her hands to her dad to wipe them off!)
"I can't wait to do this again next year!"

Just for the record: None of the family members are fans of the Huskies... It just seemed like a good cake eating shirt. There is no advertising or team supporting going on here!

Hello Spring!

2010-03-26T17:08:00.000-07:00

Good bye Winter... Hello Spring!!!

We are officially a week into the the season of new beginnings. It seems that the flowers could hardly contain themselves this year and are way ahead of schedule... but you won't hear me complaining! My yard is an explosion of green and my tulips are just beginning to bare their blossoms. The sun has been shining and I have been looking for any and every excuse to be out in it!

Today just so happens to be one of those dreary rainy days where the rain drops don't simply fall from the sky- they are forcefully thrown towards the ground! I admit, that these days make me grumble until I remind myself that they are necessary. Without them, our reservoirs would be dry, the grass would be brown, and the flowers wouldn't be as brilliant.

So... hello Spring! I'm glad you're here, come rain or shine!

And so it begins...

2010-02-22T18:29:00.000-08:00

... the accumulation of stuff, stuff and more stuff!

It's amazing how two little people require so many things. And each of those things come in big boxes requiring painstaking assembly! Once again, my husband sits back and enjoys the scene as I slowly piece together our new stroller and car seats-

(Which is another story in itself! For parents of twins, it is quite the feat trying to find a stroller that accommodates two car seats. Most double strollers just take one car seat. Then the ones that do fit two have cheesy multicolored patterns. When you are paying as much as you do for a stroller, I figure you should at least like the way it looks and be willing to take it out in public. And then you have to find car seats that fit that particular stroller... and match! So, when we finally found one we could both agree on, we hustled out and bought it!)

Let's just say I was exhausted by the end!

Slowly but surely...

Testing it out! Not too bad. It handles corners nicely and is easy to fold up. Now I just need the babies to fill it up!

The first dad testing! Geoff and Steve (my bro) are already challenging each other in stroller races!

Twin Chronicles, part 3

2010-02-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, this last week I passed my halfway point! In a little over four months, give or take, I will be holding two little babies. The excitement is building and my belly is growing!! I feel pretty consistent movement throughout the day, especially from my little tumbler on the right. During our ultrasound this last week, the baby on the right was kicking the baby on the left in the head! And so the sibling antics begin!

The big news? Geoff has just found out that he is going to be greatly outnumbered! We are having twin girls! It's so fun to finally know... Now the planning can really begin.

Check out our ultrasound pics here...

Book Club goes Coastal...

2010-02-14T14:53:00.000-08:00

After slaving away at work all weekend, a relaxing coastal getaway was exactly what I and my girlfriends needed. The weather was perfect, the food was plentiful, and the company was ideal... Although hardly a word was spoken about our most recent book, we had a great time. It's really just an excuse to hang out anyway!

During a brief break from our constant grazing, we decided to go for a walk...

Could you find a better group of girls?

The day we left, the weather was absolutely perfect... It was so hard to leave!

More pics from the weekend here...

Now that's the Winter I remember!

2010-02-01T18:06:00.000-08:00

I finally get it... why people grumble so much about the winter months in the northwest. I've never understood it before because I'm always out enjoying the frozen precipitation in the mountains. But when you can't/don't partake of the fluffy white stuff, what joy is there in this season called Winter? It's gray, dreary, and drags on and on. Hence the reason for my cabin fever this year!

Now that I'm feeling like a human again and have a good portion of my energy back, I too got to indulge in the winter bliss I've been missing. I conned my husband into taking it down a notch from his countless days of back-country skiing, to a low key day snow shoeing with his favorite wife (Sorry Bryan- you might be the fun wife, but you're not the favorite!). We headed out of the White River snow park and trekked along the Pacific Crest Trail. No it wasn't as thrilling as swooshing down the mountain, but it was glorious none-the-less to feel snow crunching under my feet and mountain air burning in my lungs.

After our invigorating romp, we stopped off at Timberline Lodge for some refreshment... I don't know why my face looks so guilty- I'm allowed to be having all those calories! And boy were they good!

The twins thoroughly enjoyed their first trip to the mountain and their first dose of mountain air- as did I!

Fun side note: White River Snow Park is where we got engaged five years ago while snow shoeing. And Timberline Lodge is where we got married! I still get sentimental every time we go there!

Becka + Julia = Recipe for Pure Delight!

2010-02-01T17:44:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:
2 fabulous friends
1 lazy Saturday afternoon
3-4 generous heaps of uncontrollable laughter
2 pkg gourmet chocolate chips

Begin by de-stressing with 2 large cups of peppermint chamomile tea. Commence with the cookie making, being sure to take turns mixing, critiquing, and sampling chocolate chips. Bake each cookie with a good portion of the uncontrollable laughter. Enjoy the fruit of your labor with a side of cold milk, ice cream, or both! Be sure not to rush any step, so as not to lose any of the slow baked flavor!

Yield: 2 satisfied friends with chocolate in their teeth and trace crumbs on their face... Ahhhh!

Good for the soul!

2010-02-01T17:23:00.000-08:00

Those of you who know me well, know that I love to go on walks. The streets in my neighborhood are like good friends to me; I know them like the back of my hand. During the dreary weather, I neglect them... But with this balmy weather we've been having, it's all I can do to keep myself away! So I grabbed a couple of my favorite walking buddies and headed out!

Rhiannon & I decided a mountain view was a must, and ventured out to Marine Dr. along the mighty Columbia.

Kachina & Callie joined Kaya & I for a neighborhood jaunt.

And the verdict? I was left feeling refreshed and invigorated, thanks to a healthy dose of Vitamin D and much needed girl time!

It's simple: just don't do it!

2010-01-22T08:33:00.000-08:00

I admit, every now and then, I turn on the TV at 4pm to hear the latest soap box of Oprah... But let me tell you, that I don't regret turning on Monday's show. It was sobering and close to home.

How many times have I resorted to talking on the phone while driving in order to keep myself awake and pass the time quicker- especially on the freeway for long trips. What I didn't know, and thank goodness I haven't found out the hard way, is that the statistics for talking while driving and driving drunk are pretty near equal. Even worse, is texting while driving which takes those previous statistics and doubles them! Though I rarely text and drive, I'm now ready to give it up completely (which is also a good idea for my pocketbook, since its now illegal in Oregon).

Oprah's show was full of people who had lost loved ones because they were hit by people who were texting and driving- 100% preventable accidents! It was heartbreaking and sickening all at once. Below is a link to a 15 minute clip of the show. If you watch, make sure you have a box of Kleenex and be ready for a reality check of your own...

Oprah's "New Deadly Obsession" clip

Spring-itis!

2010-01-18T17:12:00.000-08:00

Today, I felt the warmth of the sun... And it was glorious! All of the sudden I have spring fever and I can barely wait for it to just get here already! Maybe partially thanks to the fact that my participation in the winter mountain sports has been redirected this year to nil. And to the fact that my best friend says things like- "I'm going to go study at the beach today, since it's supposed to be 75 degrees." I just want to feel that vitamin D sinking down into the core of me!

In spite of this nasty cold I'm fighting (thanks to my mother and my niece), I found myself heading outdoors today for a pre-spring walk. I could almost imagine that it was April... The birds were out, there were little green shoots in everyone's gardens, and I even saw a tree with blossoms all over it!

So- sorry to all of you powder hounds, my husband included, but I'm wishing this dreary winter away and eagerly awaiting the freshness of spring!

Twin Chronicles, part 2

2010-01-03T17:44:00.001-08:00

Yep! That's a little bump you see! There's no denying that I have two little munchkins making there way in this world inside of me!

One of the benefits of being parents of twins is that we have the privilege of seeing them every month. We got to see them for the second time last Monday. What a miracle! It's amazing that they are already developing little personalities. The first one was just relaxing, lying on it's back with it's feet crossed- enjoying the moment. While the other one was constant motion. First on it's back, then on it's stomach, kicking it's legs, moving it's arms... You can only guess which child resembles which parent! Thank God everything looks healthy and right on track... And I'm starting to feel like myself again- yay!

Perfect end to a great decade!

2010-01-02T16:08:00.001-08:00

Snippets of my favorite memories from the last year... Though it had some hard moments, all in all, it was a great year!

Let's not forget the magic...

2010-01-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

Remember the magic you felt when you were little when it would snow? The world was transformed into the most amazing wonderland and you just couldn't wait to get out into it! I remember how my brother and I would get so irritated with our neighbors when they came over to our backyard and made tracks in the snow before we could enjoy it! But the irritation would quickly disappear once the snowman building and snow ball fighting began. By the end of the day, the no longer pristine snow held evidence of hours of good clean fun! To this day, when it snows, I find myself mesmerized by each fluffy flake that falls from the sky. It makes me feel like a kid again- I could stare at it for hours...

This is why it's so perplexing to me that when it snows here in Portland, people get so irritable and complain about it. Especially the news. All they talk about is when it will be over and how inconvenient it is. I guess we can blame it on our need to be constantly on the go. Anything that dares slow us down is considered a nuisance... Seriously people! It's not all about the "go." Let's take a moment and enjoy the "now." We get so busy rushing around, that we miss the magic...

Kaelynn: experiencing the magic for the first time! :)