The Molnar Family

He melts me

2011-11-27T07:34:00.000-08:00

This little man just melts my heart! He is the sweetest, well mannered, funny and complimentary little guy. I just can't get enough of him and constantly wonder how I got so lucky. Last night after we hung the lights on the house we come inside and Ryder tells me "Mommy your the best, your the best at everything, and I just love you." I seriously wanted to cry. This morning he walks out and sees the Christmas tree half way done (I left the other half so he could help) he yells, "mom did you do this? It looks fantastic! I'm so proud of you mommy!" Please tell me more, I love his little compliments. I often forget he isn't even 3 1/2 yet, he acts so adult like. I forget how young he is until I'm around other kids his age and I hear their vocabulary. I overheard him last night teaching the 3 year old neighbor girl Spanish. Her parents that it was hilarious. He talks and acts like a 6 year old and I just want him to stay little awhile longer. He's constantly schooling and correcting me, sadly he's usually right. This is something I imagine a 13 year old girl doing. As I'm typing this and not paying attention to him he has spoken over 1000 words to me, this kid doesn't ever stop (my ears bleed daily). He's so frustrated I'm not responding to him and he knows how to get my full attention "mommy, I love you more than anything in the whole world, can you please look at my eyes when I talk to you?" I'm pretty sure our little manipulative debater just may be a lawyer some day. Ryder, you blow our minds daily with your whit, funny character and love of pleasing others. Don't ever change, you are 1 in a billion!

Pink cell phone in his pocket, he's not ashamed!

So what if I use my sister head as an armrest

Teaching his sis how to put her hands up on rides.

Fasting for a 14 month old

2011-11-22T13:34:00.000-08:00

So today is Regan's 1st day of fasting. I guess it's not a true fast because she gets jello, water and Popsicles. Sounds filling huh? She's allowed to have chicken broth but refuses to drink it. So last night was her last meal until tomorrow after 2p.m. when she gets out of recovery. So it ends up being 42 hours of no food or formula. Wish us luck tonight getting her to go to bed while starving. My mom is so sweet, she's keeping Ryder tonight until Thanksgiving afternoon. Endoscopy and colonoscopy are tomorrow at 11a.m. I will keep you updated. Please pray for answers, I will loose my mind if everything comes back normal and they don't know why she's had diarrhea for 31 days.

Halloween...finally

2011-11-17T15:48:00.000-08:00

Finally a Halloween post. Halloween is my favorite time of year. I think it's because my birthday falls 2 days after so it's always a big week in my book. Another reason I love it so much is because I love everything Fall. The leaves, the cool air, spiced candles, more family time, Ugg boots, scarves, Salted Carmel Lattes, pumpkin beer and food, food, food.

This was the best picture we could do of both kids, and it's not a good one.

Mimi and Grandpa. My mom is not wearing a silly Halloween shirt, she just got off work and they are scrubs.

My carve job, with Ryder's help.

Jim Carrey

You think she likes pretzels?

Ryder with one of his teachers at his school party. They performed 3 songs for the parents. It was so cute. I feel so fortunate I'm able to make it to all of his school activities.

Ryder said, "mom, I'm married to you and my daddy too."

Date day with my boy

It was so nice to go to dinner just the two of us redults. (Ryder thinks he's an adult, but calls it redult)

2 goofy guys

Pumpkin muffins my family devoured.

Best pumpkin seeds I've ever had. I cleaned them and let them dry out overnight. I melted 1 tbsp of butter and stirred the seeds into the bowl. I layed them flat on my stone and sprinkled with garlic salt. Baked at 400' for 35 minutes turning them every once in a while. They were devine!

Hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween.

Regan, Regan, Regan

2011-11-15T19:52:00.000-08:00

Another update about the peanut. So today was day 24 since the diarrhea started and....we had a normal stool this morning. Wahoo, I've never been so happy to share a story about poop! Followed by 2 more normal stools today. What made this diarrhea stop you ask? On Saturday I spoke to my cousins wife who's a dietitian and she recommended I cut all gluten out of Regan's diet. We did and it has obviously made a difference. Ciliac disease which is something the Dr.s will be testing her for has to go with gluten intolerance. Today we FINALLY got the authorization for Regan's endoscopy and colonoscopy. It will be next Wednesday early afternoon. Monday night will be her last meal and then a bottle at bed time. She will have only chicken broth and jello from the time she wakes up Tuesday morning until after her procedure at 2pm on Wednesday. Not quite sure how I will console my 13 month old when she can't have formula or real food for 36 hours, but I have a feeling it's going to be ugly. Forgot to mention I have to give her laxatives every 4 hours all day Tuesday from the time she wakes up until she goes to bed. POOR BABY! Hasn't she suffered enough ass on fire diarrhea? She will be in the hospital for just part of the day and will be home to enjoy a nice Thanksgiving feast. They informed me I needed to put her back on gluten immediately or the results will be inaccurate. So as of tomorrow I'm sure we will be back to diarrhea for the next week. Good news...they will have all the biopsy results 72 hrs. after her procedure even though it's a holiday weekend. Fortunately the pathologists work around the clock. Soon I will catch up blogging about Halloween and everything else. I spend most of my days bathing my daughter to help soothe her butt after every poop, which is all day or 6 times a day at 20 minutes a bath, but soon we will have a life again... I HOPE!

First steps

2011-11-10T07:50:00.000-08:00

Our big girl took her first step last week and 2 steps last night. I will try to get video or pics this week of her on the move.

Test results- blood work results came back this week and her levels for her liver tested high (marginally) and white blood cells tested low(marginally). All this apparently means nothing until we get the rest of her results back. They are just pieces to a puzzle. Waiting SUCKS! Also her electrolytes tested low which is no surprise since she's been pooing her brains out. The good news was her eosinophils tested normal, which if those tested out of range, could mean she had a gastro disorder. It's not ruled out but that is a good sign. We are on day 18 of diarrhea and Regan's girl parts and butt are covered in sores from 2 1/2 weeks of diarrhea. It's so sad! I was convinced she had a parasite or food borne illness, it would explain all the poop. WRONG! I got her stool results yesterday, totally normal!?! I'm stumped! So now were waiting for our insurance to hurry up (please) and authorize her scope. We shouldn't get the authorization until next week and her procedure will probably be the following week (if were lucky). Since the holidays are coming they said it might take longer. So for now we wait and do what were doing.

Were making progress

2011-11-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

*Scroll down to read about Regan's update if you don't care about what I did on my birthday.

Yesterday was my birthday (31 years old) and Regan gave me the best present ever! My non-napper slept for 2 hrs. and 15 min. I was able to do some laundry,clean a little, shower and get ready, play with Ryder, then him and I ate lunch. It was so nice. I forgot how much you can get gone when your child actually naps. We headed off to the mall before Regan's Gastro appointment. The Nordrtrom sale started on my birthday...fate! Unfortunately I found nothing for myself :( Then we headed to Sephora to use a gift card my uncle gave to me. Got a few things and then with my reward card they knew it was my birthday so at check out they started ringing a bell, all the workers were yelling happy birthday and I was totally embarrassed. The good part is they gave me a bottle of philosophy's vanilla birthday cake bubble bath and shower gel. Smells yummy. Danny and I had a nice dinner once the kids were in bed (6:00 heaven) and had some vino. Since I'm so old now, I was in bed by 9:30.

Enough about me, Regan's Gastro appointment went better than I hoped for. I was afraid I was going to go in there, this crazy mom, demanding immediate answers. Her Doctor (whom we love) understood my frustration completely. He is still convinced she has a true allergy to milk and possibly to soy and corn. He explained there is no way that if it was a stomach problem alone she would break out in a rash and have a constant runny nose when exposed to these foods. I totally agree but on paper she has no allergies. He also explained that allergy testing isn't full proof and is just a guide, nothing will be black and white when it comes to allergies. The problem he explained is they can't test babies until they are 9 months old. It will we inconclusive. We knew this, but what he also said is she is still so young her test may be coming up negative and she actually has an allergy. He said he has so many patients that have "no allergies" per the test but these kids actually have severe reactions to tons of foods. Anyway my biggest concern was the blood originally in her stool and the 10 days of diarrhea.

We both decided the best thing to do was lots and lots of tests to get some answers ASAP! So he ordered blood work to check he eosinophil levels (which pertain to a few disorders) ans a full blood panel. Ordered stool samples to test for food borne illnesses, parasites and giardia. They are going to do an upper and lower endoscopy, where they will put her under anesthesia and use cameras down her throat and up her rectum to see and biopsy her insides. (I know this is necessary but I'm freaked to put her under) She will be in an outpatient surgery center for a few hours only. Then he switched her formula to the toddler version EleCare Jr. It's for toddlers to 13 years of age, higher calories and less quantity. They think she will be on it for a few years. Last were going to see a nutritionist to help me and her with the foods she can and cant eat. Since shes not testing positive for any allergies all of her food is done by trial and error. Confusing. So the next time we see her doctor, we will have results for everything. The benefit of the scoping is we will know is she has Crones, Gerd, a disorder or any issues going on inside. So that is great news. She is also able to start eating food again, the things we know she okay with, and we need to reintroduce them slowly. She's going to be really excited this morning when she wakes up and sees food on her highchair! Thanks for all the love and support!

Back to square 1

2011-11-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

Regan had her scratch test this morning. I was really nervous for her but she did great. She got 22 scratches and didn't make a peep. The nurse was quite impressed. After they did the test we had to keep her topless for 20 minutes then have the results read. She is allergic to NOTHING! Really? What does this mean, good right? Not really because it doesn't explain anything that happened over the last 13 months. They said it is something to do with her gut, possibly a gastric intestinal disease. Ummm we will take allergies instead please. So back to the G.I. tomorrw, and I'm pushing for an upper G.I. scope because enough is enough. Regan is 13 months old and everything has been a waiting game, no answers. It's been an up and down roller coaster of her doing great the bad. I can say though, I feel so thankful that she is so happy under the circumstances. She always has a huge smile on her face, even if it's chapped and snotty. She is an absolute pleasure and such a sweetie!

Update on poor peanut

2011-10-31T23:26:00.000-07:00

Regan is having a tough time again. She has had a rash for 9 days, it was on her body and then after a few days cleared and remained on her face. It got tho the point that it didn't look like a rash, it looked like a chemical burn. It was raspberry red and super tight and hot to the touch. On top of that she has had diarrhea the entire 9 days as well. It full of mucus and looks allergy related. Her poor butt also looks like it's been burned from all the acid filled diarrhea. After 5 days her allergist said to take her off ALL foods and just give her formula. (She's still on her prescription formula and probably will be for a few years) She was freaking out not eating food, she couldn't even see people eat, she would loose her mind. So sad. To add to it she cut a tooth this week then woke up Friday with a green snotty nose. Seriously??? When it rains it pours. Tomorrow she has a scratch test at the allergist's office. From what I understand "I" am going to hold her down while that scratch her back with plastic picks infected with "what we think shes allergic to." They are testing her for what she's obviously allergic to "soy and milk" as well as other high allergens and all enviormental. So I will pin her down while they make approximately 20 scratches on her back. [ I'm shedding a tear] I know it's necessary since her blood work showed nothing but I feel horrible torturing her. Wish both of us luck tomorrow and for definitive answers! The Wednesday we go back to the G.I. to see about the constant diarrhea and they are putting her on a toddler prescription formula. I will update.

Regan's Luau...perfect

2011-10-31T22:54:00.000-07:00

For Regan's birthday we had a Luau. I was thinking kids first birthday but a good time for the adults. Let's do it at 4:00p.m. PERFECT!!! For Ry's birthday I was so busy I didn't get to enjoy it. So for Regan's I knew she would be in bed by 7p.m. and the adults would stay, the older kids could jump (bouncer) and I could relax, enjoy company and mai tais. It was beautiful tropical weather, hot and cloudy, just lovely. I made pulled pork that I cooked for 18 hours, home made bbq sauce that had jalapeno and fresh ginger in it, macaroni salad and fruit skewers. I did all the cupcakes, cookies, decor and food. I will NEVER do that again with 2 kids because it was so much work, but paid off. Everyone raved about the pulled pork which I served on Hawaiian rolls. That made my night. Regan hated her cake, loved eating sand in the sand table and enjoyed being passed around. I think everyone had a good time (some stayed till 10 p.m.) and it was so nice to have a small, intimate party with close friends and family to celebrate our sweet baby girl.

One of my creations

My friend Mia made these...they were fantastic. She also made some that were smores cake balls. Chocolate with mini marshmallows inside, dipped in chocolate, rolled in graham cracker. YUMMMM

Flip-flop cookies anyone?

One of the tables

Sweets and treats table

Beach cupcakes...a lot of work

Thank you for all your help Mia, I love you! She helped me so much while she had both of her kids with no help while her husband was out of town doing an Ironman. You are such a fantastic friend. xo

LOVE! I love this picture. Too bad it's a little blurry. Beer goggles? After almost 30 years, I think not!

Interesting outfit, 10 p.m. maybe you should go to bed Ryder!

Thank you to everyone who shared in Regan's special day with us! And we missed those of you who couldn't be there! Some of our dearest friends were unable to make it do to vacations and illnesses, we missed you!

Family Pics

2011-10-23T22:19:00.000-07:00

We did a photo session recently in San Juan Capistrano's Los Rios Historic District...stunning place! It was a super quick 20 minute session, right up Danny's alley and any longer I'm sure the kids would of lost it. The kids were actually great due to the fact we shot at 5:20pm. We hadn't had dinner, we had an hour car ride and we were 40 minutes early and I wouldn't let the kids play since I didn't want them to get dirty. So they were awesome under the circumstances.
Check out the link from our photographer. http://flickr.com/gp/9706599@N08/U8ozQc/

ENJOY. Let me know what your favorites are.

Happy 1st Birthday Pretty Girl!

2011-10-15T11:04:00.000-07:00

Regan Makenzy,

It's unreal how fast this year has flown by! All my life I dreamt of having a baby girl. We were so overjoyed to find out we were giving Ryder a little sister. You absolutely complete our family and it's hard to imagine that last year we hadn't even met you yet. I want to freeze time so you can stay my little baby girl for a while longer. Your smile and laugh light up the room and my heart. Your big brown eyes melt everyones heart. You have your daddy wrapped around your little finger and will forever be his little peanut. You now have 2 teeth and your starting to cut you top two. Your on the move and will probably be walking soon. Your favorite things are you brother, Sid, taking baths and the t.v. It doesn't matter if Jeopardy is on, your glued to it. You are a very sweet, happy girl, but your definitely starting to get an attitude. You sleep a great 13 hours at night but you rarely nap. Were lucky to get a hour a day out of you, I'm sure your worried you will miss out on something. Food is also one of your favorite things! You still can't have any dairy and are still on prescription formula. We tried soy milk and you are also allergic to it. So were heading to an allergist next week to see what you can drink. I so look forward to when we can have conversations, get our nails done and shop together. Your daddy and I have such big dreams for you and we are already so proud of you. We love you more than words can say baby girl! Happy 1st Birthday!

FEARLESS!

Smash cake didn't go so well!

My little peanut isn't so little

2011-08-29T13:11:00.000-07:00

I am in shock that Regan is already 11 months old. When she was colicky I felt like time couldn't go fast enough, and now I want it to slow down! She has the biggest brown eyes I've ever seen, she can practicly get away with anything. Her huge eyes and smile melt me in an instant. In the last month she has changed tremendously! She started crawling and is now cruising around furniture in a short 3 weeks. I feel like her crawling stage is going to be short lived, which I'm okay with, because I HATE the crawling stage! She has the cutest little personality, and her laugh is so nasally and contagious. She is a HAPPY, HAPPY baby. She crawls around the house with a perma-grin on her face. She got her 1st two teeth at 10 months and cut them like a champ. You wouldn't even know she was getting teeth. She loves to eat, loves water even more and her brother is her world! She's obsessed with t.v. and anything that has bright light. She's going to be in for a real treat when she goes to Disneyland on Wednesday. (We haven't been in 3 months) She's finally done with baby food. We had to transition her very slowly due to all her intolerances with food but she's doing great and it's obvious she loves to eat. (weighing 22.8 lbs) Her favorites foods are beans, rice, bbq chicken, avo and spaghetti. Also whole wheat toast and pancakes. She's not a big fruit eater but loves her veggies. I wish she didn't stuff her mouth so full, she will try to put an entire pancake in her mouth, then she chokes, and spits the entire mostly chewed pancake onto her lap.

She loves to stick EVERYTHING in her mouth. On hot days I can't keep her in just a diaper because she pulls it apart and eats the cotton. She will crawl over to Sid and get an entire handful of his hair to put in her mouth. She finds anything! She's obsessed with eating grass, dirt, wood chips, house plants and my hair . You can't take an eye off her for a second.

Regan is just like her mama. She throws a fit if she doesn't get her way (do I really do that?). She doesn't want to nap for fear of missing out on something I'm guessing. Regan sleeps great at night, a good 12 to 13 hours (straight through, thank god), but rarely naps during the day. On a typical day she naps for 30 min. to an hour total. ALL DAY, THAT'S IT. She doesn't even fall asleep in the car, EVER! Guess how much I can get done in 30min? Almost nothing!!! But I have to admit, she's never fussy so I can't be to upset that she doesn't sleep.

Regan talks a lot less than Ryder did at her age. I try not to compare the two of them but it's so hard not to. Ryder said at least 15 words at her age. Regan says mama, dada, baba, bye, baba and bye-bye. She waves hello, good bye, points and loves to give open mouth kisses. She hates her jumperoo and saucer now, shes very independent. Unfortunately she doesn't like to be held much. I try to hold and cuddle her while giving her a bottle but she wants nothing to do with it. Hopefully someday she will let me cuddle her! These little people in my house are so cute all I want to do is cuddle them all day!

Hi chicken face

she can't get enough of the water. I know it looks funny, bathing suit with socks but her feet get tore up crawling on the cement

loves the sand, probably because she wants to eat it

see those two little teeth, so cute

she constantly has a huge smile on her face

Did I mention the men love her?

Regan, you are so sweet and we love you more than words could ever say. Thank you for for completing our little family, you are pefect in every way baby girl!

Run like the wind

2011-08-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

I ate up 10 miles of trail running for breakfast today. What did you eat? It was awesome, I usually run with a partner but she's doing a race tomorrow (good luck E) so I ran by myself. 10 is the furthest I've ever ran alone. I have an injured knee, it was 94' when I finished and I ran on an empty stomach, but I killed it. I'm super-mom, hear me ROAR! Okay, maybe not but I was proud.

I LOVE this and I have finally come to LOVE my thunder thighs!

So I'm completely ADDICTED to running! People ask me all the time, how do you run? I hate it. Once you've gotten a runners high, you come to love it I guess. I used to hate it, mostly before kids, now it's my escape. I color my own hair, only get it cut twice a year, get maybe 2 pedicures and massages a year if that so to me it's how I treat myself. Its ME time, it makes me feel great, it's healthy and I'm setting a damn good example for my kids. Ryder mimics me a lot. He pretends he's heading to the gym, says he's going to run and do squats, then demonstrates. It's so cute.

I run because I love it
I run to race
I run to be skinny (don't lie you do too)

I run for quiet time

I run to think about everything

I run to think about nothing

I run to eat what I want

I run to come home and have an ice cold beer while I ice my knees (cause I can)

I run to sweat

I run because it f***ing hurts

I run to be healthy

I run because it's a priority

I run because I'm training for a marathon (scared)

I hear far to often, I want to run but I don't have the time. I want to workout but I'm too busy. Stop making excuses! If your health is a priority to you, you MAKE the time. PERIOD! Now get your ass of the couch, or don't. It's your choice.

Water Babies

2011-08-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

Finally Ryder loves the water! 2 months ago he wouldn't even put his eyes near the water. Now we can't keep him out of it. Regan, she was a natural from day one. We submerge her and she comes up with a huge smile and laugh. She's never even choked, she holds her breath very well.

Little Diva is almost 11 months

2011-08-23T12:17:00.000-07:00

someone needs a bra?

1st toe polish. Thanks Aunt Jeana for giving her a pedi.

floating in the pool while eating a popsicle, she has the life

Before and After

2011-08-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

We've been in our house for over a year and I finally decided to post some before and after pictures. I'm sure you can figure out which are before and afters. My husband is incredibly talented and did most of the work himself. The only thing that remains from the day we bought it is the travertine floors, front door and roof and master bathroom. We have new windows, doors, mirrored wardrobes, cabinets, moved walls, crown mold, base boards, door and window casings. Everything is new down to the last detail. It feels like a new home and we love it. We still have a few big projects. Next is exterior paint and were covering up the brick with stone. Also a new patio cover that will be vaulted and tie into our roof. In the few year plan, we will get a pool and the master bath will be last. Then I'm sure my husband will be ready to move and start all over, but the kids and I are staying. Thanks babe for a beautiful home! You are the hardest worker I know!

Blue paint with red curtains? odd

Don't you love the blue paint? Well I didn't. But the flooring in the house was beautiful. It's the only thing that still remains.

The kids bathroom, isn't it nice?

Much better!

Everything that is framed in we closed off, thanks to my hubby's skills.

Notice the fireplace in the right side of the picture? GONE! Who designs a house where you walk in the front door and 5 feet later there is a fireplace in the middle of the room? Stupid. We have large furniture and like open great rooms, so it had to go, and we don't miss it!

I've blogged about my floor mat before but it deserves a 2nd plug! Its a Gel Pro Mat, it's amazing!!! They cost between $80 and $160 depending on the size. WORTH EVERY PENNY! I think I need a second for in front of the stove. If you spend a ton of time in the kitchen, this is a must, especially if you have hard flooring.

I drink a lot of wine...so! Not only does it make me happy and tastes good, the corks are so useful. This is my new kitchen cork board for party invites and important lists. Do you want one? Get drinkin!

I love these pendant lights above the bar. They are so beautiful when they are lit.

I LOVE this sink! It's a black crushed granite. And because the only dishes I hand wash are pots, pans and wine glasses, I don't need a sink with a divider in it. This sink is so large I can sit indian style in, not that I do...but I can.

2011-08-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

AAAH, realized I didn't do a post yesterday! No excuses but...I have 2 small children, one of them is almost 11 months old and only naps 45 min. ALL DAY! I get NOTHING DONE! I'm planning a party, redecorating a kitchen and training for a marathon. Well I'm off to run 8 miles with Erika (thank you for making my long runs less painful) but there will be another post today:)

sneak preview

Beautiful Oregon!

2011-08-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

We went to visit Danny's parents, his sister and her family in Bend recently. I've been up there a handful of times in the last 8 years (wow, I've been with Danny that long?) but never in the summer. I'm sold! It is so beautiful. I did not photo shop any of these photos, the sky is really that blue. We hiked, drank good beer, enjoyed great company, ate, went to a children's festival, little water park, drank good beer, ran, played shuffle board, ate some more. Did I mention we drank lots of beer? If I lived in Bend, I would have a beer belly for sure. They have at least 6 breweries in the city, good micro brews, no cheap crappy beer. Heaven! I ran my ass off so I could eat and drink my ass off. Danny and I took a brewery tour and were able to see exactly how it is made. Very interesting! We had such an awesome time, I can't wait to go back soon! Ryder and Regan had so much fun with Granny, Poppy, Auntie, Uncle and all their cousins! If the price was right (Danny making enough $$$) I would move there in a heartbeat!

Few hour day trip, Danny, Poppy, Ryder and I

Can you believe the slopes were still open on the 4th of July, AWESOME

Beautiful picture of 3 generations!

snow in flip flops, I was in heaven!

Nice arm Ry

Don't eat the yellow snow

Granny and Poppy

nice ride

sweet Lucy Love

There was a Children's festival going on called Balloons over Bend. It was awesome, and every morning the balloons flew over the houses at 7am

Beautiful trail run to the top of Pilot Butte

good conversation

someone was lookin like this and not being very friendly. the next morning he had 103' fever. hes a good sick patient

this awesome ride is Cycle Pub. You can rent it by the hour. You have to pedal to move but have a driver that steers for you. You can eat and have cocktails as you cruise through town bar hopping. It was booked the entire time we were there :(

my love and I at the Cascade Classic bike race

Ryder enjoyed watching 100's of bikes racing 40 mph through downtown

Danny and I had a date night on the river at a great restaurant. We were eaten alive by mosquito's but the company was so worth it.

John and Dawn (Danny's sis)

Deschutes brewery tour, 5 stars

Never a serious moment

Handsome Miles

Danny and I did trail running up Pilot Butte while Poppy and Regan walked the paved path and met us at the top for a fabulous view.

future Duck's quarterback??? maybe?

Danny and I were obsessed with finding funny shoes, there were plenty!

Bye Molnar's, Graham's and Nason's, we love you and already miss you!

Stay tuned, I got ground to make up!

2011-08-18T07:28:00.000-07:00

I've been a very bad blogger! For the next week I will be doing one post a day trying to catch up. So stay tuned for some good pictures and horrible writing.

Cuteness! Is that a word?

2011-05-25T11:05:00.001-07:00

Happy Wednesday from two cuties!

Mothers Day

2011-05-22T23:00:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day...It has such a different meaning to me than it used to. I always celebrated my mom on Mother's Day but had no idea what it was like to be a mother. I never understood how much my mom really loved me until I became a mom myself. I never fully appreciated how much she did for me, how unconditionally she loved me, even when I was a little shit...and I was! The love I have for my children is unexplainable! It's so deep I could never imagine loving anyone more than I love Ryder and Regan. And my mom loves me that much...WOW!

I love being a mom more than anything. I was born to be a mom and a stay-at-home mom and I'm fortunate enough to have my dream job. I thank my husband for working so hard to allow me to never miss a milestone in my children's lives! No babysitter will tell me my child crawled or walked for the first time and I missed it. Or that my child got hurt and I wasn't there to comfort them. Some days Ryder tests my patients so much I wish I had a 9 to 5 job, but only for a second. I have to take a deep breath and remind myself I would hate to leave my babies everyday! No amount of money or sacrifice I have to make to be home will ever make me feel any different. These years are flying by so fast and I know I won't have regrets because I'm doing exactly what I should be doing. Raising my kids, not allowing someone else to.

Mother's Day was so nice. I've been telling Danny I want to hike up Mt. Rubidoux since we moved to Corona. Years ago I used to walk it all the time and it's such a great walk/hike. So since it was Mother's Day he couldn't say no. He actually loved it as did Ryder. It ended up being a gorgeous day with my favorite company! We got home and the kids took a long nap and Danny and I got a chance to relax and lay on the couch. We had crab legs for dinner then had a fire in the back yard and made smores. My favorite! I like my marshmallows black! YUMMMM! Kids went down and D and I shared a bottle of wine and relaxed around the fire. PERFECT DAY!

My sweet fam

Poor guy has such sensitive eyes he squints so much outdoors, even with a hat.

I love these boys!

This is a few hundred foot drop off the backside of this rock. I did not want Danny to sit on the top, man I'm getting old.

1st smores, I think he likes it, but not as much as me! I had 4! And 4 more the following night. For those of you who don't know how much I LOVE to eat (I should be obese) I used to make smores in our house using the burner on the stove to toast marshmallows. You can call me chubba-wubba

Ryder and Regan, I don't know how I got so lucky to be your mom. You two are both amazing little people and I can't wait to see you grow into amazing adults.

Get Fit Challenge Finale and half marathon

2011-05-22T20:07:00.000-07:00

I constantly need to be challenged. I signed up for a 3 month challenge with Stroller Strides to see who could loose the most body fat. At the beginning of the challenge I started at 26.2% bf. The guy who tested me said that was really low for having a 3 month old. Still I was determined to win. I was working out at least 10 hours a week. Getting up at 4am to get in a workout before Danny left to work. I have admit, my diet isn't the best. I eat really clean most of the time but I LOVE FOOD! I eat man sized portions. I will never be super tiny and I don't care because I'm not willing to give up what I love! When the challenge ended my bf was 19.6% and I had lost 13 lbs. I was really happy with the change. Mostly my strength. I could only do one man push up when we started. Now I can hammer out a ton of push ups. I strive to be strong and lean, not skinny. Stroller Strides put on a big party to reveal the results. I ended up getting 3rd place.

Heading out to PARTY!

Prom 2011, a bunch of strong mamas

Our friend Tessa was kind enough to have us all over after dinner. Her backyard is my DREAM BACKYARD. Did you get that Danny?

pool, putting, tennis, basketball

multiple tv's, karaoke, almost a full kitchen, ping pong and foosball. If this was my house, we would be entertaining every weekend!

Then 2 days later I ran another half marathon (13.1 miles) . My second ever. I ran it in 2:12. That is 7 minutes faster than the last time I ran one.

My sweet supporter

Done and ready for a beer

Loved my shirt. Pain is temporary...Pride is forever
The back...13.1 cause I'm only half crazy

I have to thank Danny for being the best supporter. He was so great for all the time I spend away working out and running. I love that he support my loves and interests! I will always support your dreams as much as you do mine babe!

Beautiful San Francisco

2011-05-21T21:07:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my love and I flew to San Fran for 4 days to celebrate our 4th Anniversary and Danny's birthday....KID LESS! It was so nice. Sleeping in, people watching at Starbucks, working out together, good food, good wine, good conversation...doesn't that sound like heaven? It was! If you can believe this, Danny and I were both born and raised here and had never been to Frisco. I wanted to do all the touristy stuff like Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Coit Tower, a bay cruise, Lombard Street to name a few. Oh and how could I forget the mall!!! Seriously the best mall I've been to! Too bad my husband couldn't spend 6 hours of shopping and browsing like I could. So that will have to happen on a girls trip....someday?!? We stayed at the Westin Downtown Market Street, loved the location and the hotel was a steal. I let them know it was our anniversary when we checked in and they upgraded us to the 34th floor. We had a corner room and 2 of our walls were floor to ceiling windows with views of downtown, the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. It was a perfect trip. I'm so thankful my mom and sis were kind enough to keep our kiddies for 4 days.

Right when we got there, we walked to the Ferry Building and to happy hour.

Ferry Building, such a cool place. Loved all the fresh herbs, fish, cheese and flowers

Our view at sunset from our room

Date Night...oh that was every night

A friend told me I had to go to The Buena Vista to go get an Irish Coffee. If you have never had one it's coffee, Irish Whiskey and sugar stirred and topped with a rich cream. So good. It was definitely the first time I've ever had whiskey at 10am. This picture was taken from our seats at the bar. The best seat in the house. We were chatting with the bartender and he had been working there for 38 years. On busy days they make over 2000 Irish Coffees.

I'm not a huge fan of public breastfeeding but I thought this statue was beautiful!

Thanks Val for the recommendation on the harbor cruise. We loved it. We went underneath the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz. Short and sweet but we got to see a ton.

In the top right hand corner is the famous Lombard Street.

Coit Tower

Leaving Coit we walked down 20 minutes worth of stairs through houses on old wooden stairs. The landscape was so lush and gorgeous.

Isn't he handsome?

Thanks for a wonderful trip babe, I had a fabulous time.

Let's get you caught up

2011-05-09T00:15:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'm so busy with 2 kids, thankfully were done!!! We've been busy with birthday parties, Ryder's school, swim lessons, working on the house (never ending), vacation, playing outside, crafts, my Get Fit Challenge, 1/2 marathon and life! Love it, wouldn't trade it for the world!

John's B-Day party

LOVES his bike

Mia's 1st Birthday Party

Little Danny???

This is what we do all day on warm days

We've been watching lots of Lakers games...until tonight! BOOOOO!

princess

were still here

2011-05-08T23:35:00.000-07:00

I know it's been way too long, but were still here, just busy! Regan is almost 7 1/2 months. I know it crazy, huh? I have a love/hate feelings about her getting older. I LOVE the fact that she interacts with Ryder and is so easy, but I HATE that the time is slipping through my fingers like sand. Regan has changed so much recently. She is such a happy baby! Ryder is her world, she is captivated by him. She started sitting up recently. She babbles and squeals non-stop. Her hands and anything she can get a hold of is in her mouth. She loves her baths and still loves being swaddled. I know we need to break her! She LOVES the t.v., she would watch it all day if I allowed her. She sleeps 13 hrs at night and takes 4-5 hrs. worth of naps each day. We have another crazy sleeper on our hands! For being delivered 3 weeks early and having weight and feeding problems, she's sure caught up! Our baby girl is finally chunky and it looks so good on her! She is still on her prescription formula due to her milk allergy. The Dr. is going to do a blood work when she's 9 months to test for all allergies. We have been able to start her on rice cereal and a few veggies so far. The Dr. wanted us to wait and start slow with her food due to her milk allergy. She's done really well so far with her food.

Do you notice someone got her ears pierced?

Can you believe these are the legs of the girl who couldn't gain weight?

Her favorite person in the world

Happy, happy girl!

Ryder loves to take pictures like mommy and daddy

Ryder is 2 1/2

2011-02-02T14:29:00.000-08:00

Dear Ryder,

I cant believe you are 2 1/2 years old. Time is flying and I want to hold on to every minute of it. I feel like yesterday you were just a baby. These last few months since Regan's birth have been really challenging for all of us. You have been so understanding and mature well beyond your years in handling it all. You care so much about your sister and through this tough time you have been such a trooper.

You are so well mannered and so sweet. You tell me daily that you love me and thank me constantly for all I for you.

You are so silly and very fun to be around. You are the funniest person I know. I'm in tears daily from laughing so hard by the hilarious things that come out of your mouth. I really need to start writing them down!

You are such a big helper. You love to mimic both Daddy and I. And you are so your fathers son!!! You are always getting out his screwdrivers and trying to take apart your toys. I constantly see you on your little cell phone having full one way conversations with family and friends. It cracks me up to her the things you say during your fake phone conversations.

You love school and are constantly talk about how much you like Ms. Rachel. Unfortunately we had to take you out of school for a few months since your sis has been so sick per the Dr.s orders. But you will be returning soon enough buddy!

You are genius. I'm not saying that because I'm your mom, you are bright beyond your years. You have been counting to 20 and to 10 in Spanish for months now. You now all of your letters and the sound every letter makes. You can spell your name, Regan's, mama, dada and Mimi. We are trying to teach you to read since you can sound letters out, soon I'm sure. You know your colors and numbers. You know your phone number and where we live. It's amazing we can tell you something once and you will remember it FOREVER! It amazes me that we carry on full conversations and you vocabulary is extensive.

You are shy around new people but open up very quickly, you are mellow and very strong willed. The terrible two's have not been so terrible, you have your moments but for the most part your a very easy child!

Thank you for that. You have been potty trained since a week after your 2nd birthday and finally just started pooping on the toilet. You love your new twin sized big boy bed, but you keep getting out of it at night to wake us up.

Your smile is sweet, your laugh infectious and I love our time together! You make me the happiest mom in the world! You will never understand until you have children of your own how much your daddy and I love you!

I want to rock and roll all night

2011-01-30T16:34:00.000-08:00

and party everyday!

New Years Day fun

2011-01-30T16:30:00.000-08:00

We headed to Tom's Farm New Years Day since Danny and I will feeling so chipper. Usually we have a little to much fun New Years Eve and this year we stayed home and relaxed. It was a wonderful change!

Cutie!

Check out my new stroller hiding back there. I'm in love!

How cute is she, I know I'm partial!

Who does this to their dog?

The view from our living room window.

Where to start???

2011-01-26T21:33:00.000-08:00

I hate being so far behind with my blogging!!! I guess I will start with Christmas, since that is where I left off. Christmas was great! Ryder is at such a fun age and loved the whole idea that Santa was coming to bring him presents. He was spoiled and Regan got a TON of diapers and wipes. The girl needs for nothing! Ryder got a new bike and he loves to ride it EVERYDAY! We had a nice relaxing Christmas Eve, just us. Christmas day my family came over and the day after we celebrated with Danny's brother, wife and kids.

The only decent family picture we have

Anyone that know Ryder well enough knows he obsessed with Harley Davidson's and Ford trucks. Santa brought a truck that was both of those things.

Sis loves her Starbucks like her mommy!

Love laying in bed with these two. The lights of my life!

We did LOTS of crafts since we were stuck in the house with way too many days of rain!

Ryder's new bedroom is pirate theme (or it will be once we get it going). Danny's mom sent Ryder a collage of Ryder, Danny and Uncle Al all dressed as pirates when they were little. It will be great in his room!

Merry Christmas Eve!

2010-12-24T14:48:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Eve! We have had a wonderful day so far. Immaculate house (cleaned and organized more than it's been since we moved in, ahhhh feels so good), planting new plants, finished a new water feature, having mimosas in our pj's, taking pictures of my beautiful babies. LIFE IS SO GOOD!

Can't get enough of her!

Do you like our new fountain? I love it! You can hear it in most of the rooms of our house.

How about the new furniture? It's so comfortable! Can't wait to light a fire. Maybe tonight!

Fun with Ryder

2010-12-21T11:40:00.000-08:00

I learn so much from watching and listening to Ryder. He blows my mind everyday! I love him to pieces! While taking a walk the other day...

Lesson 1: Take time to stop and smell the roses.

Lesson 2: Have fun and act silly no matter who's watching.

Lesson 3: Make time to take naps, even on a strangers lawn.

I couldn't get enough of the trees in our neighborhood! Unfortunately with all the rain the last few days, they are bare. But beautiful while it lasted!.

Little Angel

2010-12-20T10:00:00.000-08:00

I think these pictures speak for themselves!

Miracle at the Molnar's

2010-12-19T22:22:00.000-08:00

What a difference a week makes. Regan has been on EleCare (prescription formula) for a week now. In the last few days we've seen miraculous changes!! She went from congestion, diarrhea, vomiting, not wanting to eat or sleep, blood in her stool and a fussy baby to a sweet happy baby who loves to eat, sleeps through the night, naps 6 hours a day, doesn't need to be held or rocked all day and puts herself to sleep. We lay her in her crib completely awake and she falls asleep within a few minutes. She has been a dream! You can tell she feels so much better. Her reflux has also improved with her new formula. It's so nice to finally see her real personality. Christmas came early in our house!

Santa Baby

2010-12-19T22:10:00.000-08:00

Ryder was very excited to see Santa this year. Also to tell him that he wanted presents and he was a good boy. He asked Santa for a truck and a slide. (He has a 100 trucks and 2 slides already) Poor Santa, Ryder talked his ear off. It was pouring so Daddy dropped us in front of the store and went to park. We were the only ones in there so Ryder has 5 minutes to ask Santa 50 questions. It was cute listening to him.

Update on the peanut

2010-12-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

Regan had an appointment with a pediatric GI from CHOC on Wed. We loved him. He upped her dose of Zantac and put her on a low dose of Erythromycin to help her reflux. Her reflux seemed a little better until the day of her appointment when she threw up 4 of her feedings. No spitting for her. All projectile vomiting. Danny had a work banquet that day and came to her appointment in slacks and a dress shirt and she soaked him from shoulders to waist. The smell of Nutramigen formula smells SO BAD! Poor guy was stuck in his vomit covered clothes for a few hours. Separate issue is her cows milk allergy. He took us off Nutramigen and put her on Ele Care. It's a prescription formula and it's amino acid based rather than dairy. When the Dr. told Danny a 14 oz. can that lasts 3 days is $40 + tax and shipping (since you can't buy it in the store) I thought he would pass out. He told us our insurance would not pay for it unless Regan was feeding tube dependant. I asked him to write a prescription for it anyway so I could fight our insurance, since I'm really good at that. The following day she continued to have vomiting and diarrhea. Also didn't want to eat. She ate 10 ozs. all day. I called our insurance and asked to speak with a nurse care manager. I explained that we couldn't afford it and it was going to cost them more $ in the long run from all of the problems she will have as a result of not getting proper nutrition and this formula is our last resort. (We would have found a way to pay for it, that was just my argument) They agreed to cover a can for a $25 copay. Not cheap but still a savings. I called CVS and asked them to call the insurance and get an over ride from 1 can to 3 cans. So it would last for a week. CVS called me back and got them to cover 6 cans. Then a few hours later CVS called back to tell me she called the insurance to fight with them that Regan needed a month worth of formula, not 2 weeks worth. They agreed to it. So now we pay a $25 copay for an entire month of formula rather than $600 a month. I sent the "angel" at CVS flowers the following day. Talk about great customer service. I knew how to deal with the insurance and have the pharmacy help you with over rides since I had this same problem with my meds. My Zofan was $105 a day while pregnant and the pharmacy helped me get the insurance to cover it. So from Thursday until today she's still having vomiting, diarrhea and not wanting to eat. She went without food for 12 hours and had no wet diapers so this morning we had to take her to the ER. They said she was not dehydrated enough for an IV (which was great news) but had nothing else for us. They gave her Reglan which is an anti vomiting and anti nausea drug, unfortunately it has side effects. Including neurological side effects so I don't want her on it for more than a few days. We left the ER with a prescription. That's all. I was hoping for answers to "why is my child vomiting, having diarrhea, doesn't want to eat, still has blood in her stool?" So I guess I will have to call the G.I. tomorrow and figure out what's going on. Prayers please! We need this girl to gain some weight.

My blog will be suffering

2010-12-07T06:57:00.000-08:00

My blog will be suffering for a while. I will try to keep you updated briefly about Regan. Poor girl doesn't sleep during the day AT ALL and she's screaming if she's not held. The Ergo carrier has saved me. She's happy if she's in it, so lately she's in it all day. I can't get anything done around the house or even get a shower some days. I know my children's needs come first so everything else will have to suffer.

Regan update- The blood in her stool is continuing to get worse. We have an appointment this Wed. at CHOC with a G.I. Dr. so hopefully we will get her the help she needs. Lots of good thoughts and prayer.

Ryder update- He is the sweetest big brother and is so tolerant of Regan screaming and taking all the attention. He loves school and I'm so happy he has that outlet right now.

Danny- Is working hard as always and constantly doing stuff to the house to make it more beautiful. He goes to the Dr. Fri. to guarantee we are done having children! We got blessed with one of each and we are SO DONE!

Kris, this is for you.

Our Son the Comedian

2010-11-29T23:51:00.000-08:00

There are some days when I say "I hate the terrible two's." Most days I say "I love, love, love this age." Ryder is a crack up. The funniest things come out of this 2 year old mouth. Not only is he funny, he's one of the sweetest people I know. Daily we are laughing our asses off at the stuff he says.

Tonight I'm watching t.v., everyone else is sleeping, he runs out of his room screaming.
me: "Ry, whats wrong?"
Ry: "I want my fan on."
me: "Why do you want your fan on? Its freezing!" (we keep our heat on 68)
Ry: "I want it on"
me: "okay" (I start walking out)
Ry: "mommy, I love our Christmas lights."
me: "I do too buddy"
Ry: "and I love the remote"
me: "go to sleep Ryder"
Ry: "oh mommy, I love you too."
I know that's not funny but it was so sweet.

Last week Regan had a few really bad days. Danny came home from worked and asked if I needed a glass of wine. "Yes I do." A few nights later I had bunco. Regan was screaming as I left Danny with both kids. I felt bad but I needed a break. Danny calls me later to say when he was tucking Ryder in he had told Danny, "Daddy, I need a glass of wine." Apparently Regan's screaming is really getting to him.

Thank God he has such a great sense of humor and keeps me laughing on days I want to cry. I hope someday he truly understands how much we love him and how much joy he brings to our life!!!

2 month doctors appointment

2010-11-29T21:19:00.000-08:00

Regan is a peanut. Her name suits her well. Today she had her appointment a weighed a tiny 9 lbs. 8 ozs. I believe the Dr. said that she's in the 20th percentile. Her length was 22 1/2 inches. In comparison to Ryder he was 12 lbs. 11 ozs. Beefcake! She also had her 1st shots today. Poor girl has been fussy all evening...maybe fussy isn't a good word. She has been shrieking this really high pitched squeal worse than nails on a chalkboard. I didn't expect this since Ryder was never bothered by immunizations. But then again Danny says I got my high-maintenance girl. Dr. wants us to come back in 3 weeks to check her weight. It's not poor weight gain but also not great. She's meeting all of her milestone which the doctor says is good especially for how fussy she's been. She had blood in her stool AGAIN today so if it continues tomorrow, they will have to culture it. Hopefully we can figure out why that is happening. All in all, Dr. said she looks great and is beautiful. (Which I already knew) Mama was happy that they gave us 4 cans of Nutramigen. $80 worth of formula! That will last a whole 8 days. Something else exciting, Regan slept through the night again last night, that's two in a row. Cross your fingers it continues. Mommy and Daddy love you peanut! I know your giving me a really hard time right now because you are going to be a really easy teenager, I just know it.

2 months old...already?

2010-11-28T22:14:00.000-08:00

I thought time flew after we had Ryder. I felt like it was yesterday I had Regan, I blinked, and now she's 2 months. The last few weeks have been a blur. Since the day Regan was born she's had severe congestion. We thought she had a LONG cold. Come to find out she either has a severe milk allergy or is lactose intolerant. Poor girl also has silent reflux, it's similar to an adult having heartburn. Instead of spitting up she vomits, swallows it and chokes on it. During and after feedings she would scream and would have periods where she would scream for up to 5 hours. I would sit holding her and just cry with her. It killed me to know she was in so much pain and I could do NOTHING for her. There is nothing more exhausting than hearing a baby scream for 5 hours while trying to take care of a toddler and cook dinner at the same time. It was also very hard for Ryder. He would say "give her medicine, where's her binky, mama make her stop, it's hurting me." She would nap for 10-20 minute periods of time then wake up screaming. Now we have her on Nutramigen formula and she seems to be a lot better. Her skin has cleared up, congestion has gotten better and her diarrhea and bloody stools have gone away. Her reflux has also improved. Were finally getting to enjoy her and start to see her personality. The last few weeks during her awake hours all she would do was scream. We weren't getting to really enjoy her and it was breaking my heart. I've never felt more helpless in my life, trying to figure out what was wrong with her and doing trial and error. Hopefully were on the road to better days. Regan this week has started smiling and doing silent laughs. It's so sweet. She's an awesome sleeper at night. She wakes up only once a night since the day she was born and a few times she's even slept through the night. Heaven. She has the most beautiful big eyes and loves to watch her brother act silly. We are so in love and are enjoying each and everyday.

Serious, Screamer, Smirk

Those are Molnar eyes

She thinks Ry is pretty funny

She's getting rolls

Touchdown!

Lots to be thankful for!

2010-11-25T23:11:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! We had a wonderful day with our family. My grandparents are visiting from Ohio and it was the first time they met the babies. They are so in love!!! Who wouldn't be? Maybe I'm biased but our kiddos are BEAUTIFUL! I have never been as thankful as I am today. An amazing husband, two beautiful, healthy babies as well as great family and friends. Life is beautiful!

My monkey and peanut. Love them!

Halloween Fun

2010-11-19T09:22:00.000-08:00

So I'm weeks behind but I have a good excuse. I has an 8 week old baby who is colicky, has severe silent reflux and has a milk allergy or intolerance. I will update you about Regan in a future post.

Halloween was a blast this year! Ryder was so cute. He loved trick-or-treating! I didn't think he would be so into it but he was running from house to house. I had to keep reminding him him to slow down. We went over to the Lawrence's house so the boys could trick-or-treat together. Their neighborhood was awesome. 9 out of 10 houses were giving out candy and everyone had great decorations. We waled the entire block both sides, we must of gone to 30 houses. I was so impressed he wasn't ready to go home and eat his candy after a few houses. It was so much fun for Danny and I to see Ryder so excited. Regan also enjoyed her first Halloween. She slept in the Ergo carrier the entire time.

He also had his first school party. They had a pizza party and went trick-or-treating from classroom to classroom. I had been waiting for this since he started school. His first party, where I could come take pictures, make cupcakes, I was in heaven. It was so nice to see him follow direction from his teachers, he was such a good boy.

Regan, Jackson, James and Ryder

My two little pumpkins

Ryder and his little friend Jordan from school

He enjoyed the cupcakes I made

Busy October

2010-11-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

October has been so busy, no wonder time has flown by so fast since I had Regan. Ryder has sure been spoiled with all the visitors we've had and all the fun places we've gone. While Granny and Poppy were visiting we had lots of family time, visited Tom's Farms, went bowling, went to the Corona airport for breakfast, visited the new Norco fire station and went to Landon's soccer game. Ryder loves Landon (his cousin) and talks about him ALL the time. He now wants to wear a jersey and play soccer like "Lando". That's what Ryder calls him.

While Mimi stayed with us we took Regan to Disneyland for the first time. She slept the WHOLE day. She was so good. She stayed in her Ergo carrier which I love by the way, and woke only for feedings and a quick diaper change.

Daddy was off last week and we were able to get a ton of work done to the house and outside. Danny has been busy cutting down old trees and planting new ones. It has been so nice to have him home. We had friends the Lawrence's over for a BBQ and they have two boys. Ryder has so much fun with Jack and James, and we have a great time with their parents. The kids were so good and Ryder was so excited that they were spending the night. We also visited Disneyland again and it was an amazing day. It was the slowest I have ever seen it. Both kids napped at the same time while we were there and Danny and I were able to have a beer and talk. It was a fantastic day followed by dinner at Rainforest Cafe. Danny went back to work today and I'm on my own for the 1st time in 5 weeks with both kids. I was so sad for him to go back. The help has been wonderful but now things are back to normal. Life with 2 is much crazier!

I love this plane.

Baby girl is 1 month old

2010-10-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Regan is a month old already. I'm so sad it's going by so fast! I though time went by fast when we had Ryder but this is WAY too quick. Knowing we will not have anymore babies, I'm trying to not miss a minute of this precious time.

Regan, you have been such a sweet girl from the day you were born. The second I saw your beautiful face I forgot how much my pregnancy SUCKED! I even told Daddy I could do this again and have more babies. He said "no way, no more pregnancies!" You are an amazing sleeper! You sleep 4-7 hour stretches at night since the day you were born. Knock on wood, we've yet to have a rough night so far. You are an okay eater, we had to get your weight checked at 4 weeks since you were not gaining adequately. But you gained a pound from 2 weeks to 4 weeks and now weigh 7 lbs 13 ozs. Brother gave you a cold at a week old and you have been pretty sick for the last 3 weeks but your starting to get better. Your starting to like baths, you love mommy's, daddy's and Ryder voice. Your not a fan of your bouncer or swing. You would rather just lay on the couch or in your crib. The last few days you have become very high maintenance. All the help we have had for the past 4 weeks has been great but you have gotten used to being held a lot. You and Ryder are the light of mine and daddy's lives! We love you so much little peanut! Now stop growing so fast! I don't want the newborn stage to end!

Overachiever

2010-10-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Regan is just like her brother...an overachiever! She's already holding her own bottles.

1st Bath

2010-10-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

1 Week Old

2010-10-22T23:02:00.000-07:00

Regan had an eventful 1st week of life. We went to Tap's for dinner, Tom's Farms, she had her 1st sponge bath and lots of visitors came to see her.

1 week old

1st sponge bath

Ryder is a great big brother

Auntie is in love

Regan Makenzy

2010-10-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

Finally an update...Our little peanut has arrived! Regan Makenzy Molnar was born Sept. 26Th at 3:19a.m. weighing 6 lbs. 11ozs and 19 in. long. My water broke 10 days before my scheduled c-section and 2 weeks before her due date, and took us by complete surprise. My surgery went well and she came out screaming with the sweetest little cry I'd ever heard. The memories of my horrible pregnancy of vomiting up to the minute I had my spinal, 5 visits to the hospital for I.V's, preterm labor and bronchitis and 5 weeks of bed rest, disappeared immediately when I saw her precious face! She has been an absolute angel so far! From the day she was born she sleeps between 4 and 7 hour stretches at night. I didn't think any baby could sleep better than Ryder but she has proved me wrong. Ryder is loving the fact that he has a baby sister. His eyes filled up with tears yesterday when I picked him up from school and I was alone. "Where is Regan and Mimi" he said. He is such a gentle and loving big brother. Danny and I feel so blessed and our life now feels complete!!!

I know this picture is graphic but I think it's BEAUTIFUL!

The happy family of 4, feeling exhausted and overwhelmed with love.

He loves kissing his sister

Kissing her again as we head home from the hospital.

Sneak Peek

2010-09-28T18:49:00.000-07:00

Here's the newest addition to our family. Regan Makenzy surprised us with her arrival early Sunday morning. Details and more pics to come. Everyone is healthy and we are so in LOVE!

One month & counting

2010-09-05T13:43:00.001-07:00

A month from today I deliver our sweet baby girl. I'm so looking froward to summer being over! It was 107' yesterday and that does not feel nice when you feel and look like this....

This morning I went to the swap meet alone which was so nice. It was a cool 62' , overcast and misty. I was wearing a tank top and shorts and loving every second of it. The best part is Pumpkin Spice Lattes are back. Oh how I've missed them. I love fall for the weather, spiced candles and Halloween. October hurry up and get here.
Another thing I'm looking forward to is my favorite beer season. For those of you who know me well, I LOVE beer. And good beer, not that light crappy stuff. I love most of the Octoberfest beers and B.J.'s has the best Pumpkin Ale. Since I will be delivering early October I get to enjoy all the great beer I want. Wahoo.

We have a new nephew

2010-09-02T14:54:00.000-07:00

Danny's brother Alex and his wife Kelly had their second child today. Baby boy Molnar (doesn't have a name yet) was born early this morning and is perfect. He looks just like his older brother Landon who is almost 5 years old. We are so excited for them and can't wait to meet our nephew!!! More pictures to come. We are visiting them tomorrow.

5 more weeks!

2010-08-31T21:45:00.000-07:00

In 5 weeks from today we will have already met Regan Makenzy. I can't wait or I should say we can't wait! Our family will be complete and Danny and I are thrilled. It amazes me that I will love another little person as much as I love Ryder, that I would already give my life for this little girl I haven't met yet.

Ryder did the sweetest thing yesterday. I was sitting on the couch, he lifted up my shirt so he could see my belly, kissed it and said "I love you Regan." I was almost in tears. Our little boy has a heart of gold and I hope he is as sweet to her as he is to my belly.

Regan,
You have given me one hell of a tough pregnancy. I know you will be a little angel because of it (fingers crossed). All I ask of you is to please not come early. Mom likes everything scheduled and your c-section day and time is waiting for you. Mom is getting her nails done the day before, has a 3 different friends and family set up to take care of your big brother, your Granny and Poppy are flying into town the day before, your Mimi and daddy already have their vacation time planned and mama has the house cleaner and photographer scheduled. So please be a good girl and come on the birthday we picked for you. Mommy may freak out if you come early I have to experience labor. We can't wait to meet you baby girl. You are so loved by so many already.

Love, Mommy

Ryder Spelling His Name

2010-08-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

Tell him something once and he will never forget it. Smart little cookie.

What we've been up to

2010-08-29T21:30:00.000-07:00

These two handsome guys have been having lots of bonding time since I've been on...

bed rest. This is how I do bed rest on the weekend, thanks to my mom for being such a huge help to Danny and I.

Auntie has been helping us out a ton as well

Wouldn't generally put a picture of me in a bathing suit especially looking like this but.... I have not been documenting this pregnancy with belly pictures as often as I did with Ryder. So this is all I have of belly pics. for a few weeks. 33 weeks and still rocking a bikini. The only way I will be wearing a one piece is if Regan destroys my stomach.

Mr. Ry is now in a toddler bed and doing so well with it. The first 3 nights we didn't put a rail up and he was on the floor multiple times a night. Poor guy kept falling out of bed. This transition

was so easy, he doesn't ever get out of bed by himself. In the morning and after naps he calls for us to come get him.
Loves his new tricycle

He has been missing Stroller Strides but still squeezes in a workout here and there.

Loving his big cousin Landon

We had a great visit with Auntie Dawn who came to visit for a few days from Oregon.

Ryder is so in love with his auntie. She spoiled him rotten while she was here.

The reason I'm out of bed and off the couch is I am now on partial bed rest. I have to be down most of the time but I'm allowed to do more than just shower and go to the bathroom. I'm not allowed to lift Ryder or push anything but it isn't that bad. We found out this week my cervix hasn't changed and I had another FFN test on Tuesday and it was negative. Which means I wont be delivering on the next two weeks. So things have been looking up minus the fact that I'm back to vomiting daily. NO FUN! I took myself off of my vomiting and nausea meds because I'm having other side effects that are even worse. So I'm really ready for the next 5 weeks to fly by!!!

Holding her in!

2010-08-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

An update on her....I haven't blogged much about my pregnancy because I haven't had the time or made the time. But now I have plenty of time on my hands. I'm not happy about it but it has to happen. I had been having contractions since I was 18 weeks pregnant. They took me off of exercise and the contractions went away for the most part. So at 30 weeks my Dr. said I could resume all normal activity. I did and 3 days later ended up in the hospital with contractions 1 minute apart. Danny was with Ryder at home and I thought I was going to be delivering a baby without my husband at 30 weeks. A little scary! They were able to stop the contractions with meds and now I'm on bed rest and medication to keep them at bay. I'm allowed to shower once a day, go to the restroom and doctors appointments. Other than that, I'm on my back. Unfortunately Regan is so low when I stand the pressure is so bad it feels like she's going to fall out. (I'm sure it's close to the same feeling of being in labor) So even walking to the bathroom is not fun. Typically they would let me off of bed rest at 36 weeks and let nature take it's course but after talking to my doctor today, it doesn't sound like I will be so lucky. Since I'm having a repeat scheduled c-section they don't want me going into natural labor. So I may be on bed rest until 39 weeks (10/05) when I am scheduled for surgery. I feel the worst for Ryder but I know he won't remember this time. I was really looking forward to spending these last 2 months with him doing as many fun things as we can just the 2 of us. [tear] I still want to make our time enjoyable and not just watching t.v.

If anyone has blogs they follow or websites they use for crafts with kids that they love, please leave a comment and share them with me. Something that I can do with him sitting down or in bed that will still be fun for us.

Big Boy

2010-08-08T23:54:00.000-07:00

Do you notice anything different about this picture??? No, our grass isn't greener and yes that is a new table. Anything else???

Ryder is wearing BIG boy underwear. Our boy has been potty trained for a few weeks now. He is holding his poo for when I put a diaper on him at nap time, but we have the pee down. It was so much easier then I ever imagined. It took a whole 4 days . He's one smart cookie that boy! Now I hear poo training is a totally separate challenge. Wish us luck. Either way, in 8 weeks from now I will have only 1 baby wearing diapers. Wahoo.

So far behind! Where to start?

2010-08-08T22:43:00.001-07:00

Since I haven't posted in almost 2 months, here are some pictures of Ryder the week of his 2nd birthday. We took him to Sea World and had a wonderful time!

Ryder, how old are you?

I think this picture is so sweet!

Happy 2nd Birthday Monkey!

2010-06-21T06:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday son. It's hard to believe 2 years ago today our lives were forever changed. You bring so much love and joy into our lives and what an incredible 2 years it has been! You are such a sweet and easy boy. You love to give us hugs and kisses and always tell us you love us. You make us laugh each and everyday by the things you do and say.

Some of your favorite things are Sid, Vw's, Hot Wheels, motorcycles, coloring, reading, kicking and throwing balls, Yo Gaba Gaba and watching the Laker's play. You are always yelling "go Kobe" at the t.v. and throwing your arms in the air with excitement. You love to do anything Daddy does, mow the lawn, water the plants and use your tools. You also love to stay with Mimi and Grandpa and talk about them non stop.

A few things you aren't fond of are sand (but your getting better), anything in your shoes (dirt, wood chips), veggies, and baths. Now that you have taken showers you are over taking baths.

You are a very bright boy. You count to 14 in English and 10 in Spanish and count backward from 10to 1. You can say your ABC's almost perfectly (you forget a few letters), can identify a few shapes and sing a few songs. You are speaking full sentences and can repeat anything we say. (even the bad stuff). You memory is out of this world. I will tell you something once and you never forget it. When asked how old you are you respond "almost 2" and hold your two index fingers up .

In a few short months you will have a little sister, daddy and I know you will be an amazing big brother. You talk about Regan constantly and you love carrying around her shoes.

We are so proud of you! We have loved watching you grow from a baby to a little boy with such personality. Mommy looks forward to watching you grow into the type of man your father is! You couldn't have a better role model. Mommy and Daddy love you son!

Just what I've been looking for!

2010-06-17T14:45:00.000-07:00

Check out this hat I just found for Regan. Isn't it so sweet? It even matches her room and will be perfect for her newborn photo session. (Which I already have scheduled) Having a girl is going to be dangerously expensive. Worth $28 plus shipping??? I think so. Can't wait to see it on our sweet baby girl.

23 months

2010-05-23T22:45:00.000-07:00

Ryder will be 2 next month. Just to type that is crazy to me. Definately the 2 fastest years of my life. I really want time to slow down because I LOVE this age. Ryder seriously has the cutest personality. Everyday I'm amazed by him. He's talking full sentences and has a crazy memory. The other day he decided he wanted to call Cash, I hadn't seen his phone in days. He walks out to the garage, gets in a crate, gets his phone and while walking back in the house says"Hi Cash." He is OBSESSED with VW's. He calls them V Dub. He wakes up in the morning and the first thing he says is "V dub, are you? That and motorcycles. Every time he sees one it's "grandpa motorcycle Harley Davidson." I love that he talk so much but lately it has been embarrassing. We were in the doctor's office the other day and while we were checking out he says in a room full of people "dada farted outside and mama poo pooed." Yep that's my son. In the Old Navy dressing room (pregnant women have a lot of gas okay, and it was just the two of us) and I tooted (did I just really type that?). Ryder says so loud "ooh mama stinky" I tried to play it off in case anyone heard "Ryder, do you have a poo poo?" He responds " No mama, you stinky." I had to laugh. Great now I can't even pass gas in front of my not even 2 year old. He is so much fun we can't wait until Regan gets here but at the same time I'm enjoying my 1 on 1 time with Ry. In 4 1/2 months from now, life will sure be different! I love Ryder SO much that sometimes I'm scared that I will have to share my love once Regan comes. How can I possibly love this much again? I know I will the second I see her, it's just hard to imagine right now.

Crazy weather weekend

2010-05-23T20:11:00.000-07:00

We had such a nice weekend. Yesterday we spent the day with friends at their time share in Palm Springs. It was a beautiful 85' not a cloud in the sky. All Ryder wanted to do was climb in and out of the pool. ALL DAY. He didn't want to swim and he did not want his picture taken.

I think this picture is so sweet

I had to crop the belly out of this one... sorry

Ryder not wanting to look at the camera

Luckily he took a nap at the pool. I got to enjoy a virgin Pina Colada and we all took turns riding the 3 story water slide. Even me, I'm pregnant, not disabled. It was fast and so much fun!

Finally, agreed to a picture

We all slept in today until 8am (thank you Ryder) and got out of bed to a freezing house. After being in the beautiful sun yesterday it was weird to have to run the heat today. The clouds were amazing this morning and we enjoyed the little bit of rain we got!

I ran to get us all coffee. It's crazy when we drive by a Starbucks Ryder notices the emblem and screams "Ryder's coffee." I always get him milk with a pump of vanilla and that is "his coffee."

Danny built Regan's closest organizer today and I put her few things in it. It was weird to keep looking in her room and seeing these little pink clothes. After so much boy stuff it's crazy seeing pink. But we love it!

Danny and Ryder hung pictures today, a towel bar, bikes in the garage and kept busy with their hunny do's. Ryder is so cute, when Danny gets out his drill Ryder runs to his playroom to grab his also. So cute that he know all of his tools and the uses for them. I hope he will be able to build and fix anything just like his dad and poppy.

I love lazy Sundays with my family! I enjoyed a nice nap, did a little cleaning and stayed in my pj's all day. We had Miguel's for dinner (one of my favorites) and watched the Laker's loose. [tear]

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend also!

Sneak peak

2010-05-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a little sneak peak of Regan's bedding.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-05-08T09:19:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago we moved to Corona and we've been busy getting settled. Danny did so much to the house in the weeks before we moved, it looks beautiful. It's basically a brand new home on the inside minus the kitchen, which we will remodel by next year. Two of my favorite things he did are new windows and solid wood doors. The windows have kept our house so cool with the hot weather we've had this week and the doors allow us to be as loud as we want while Ryder is sleeping. Whether were hanging pictures or listening to the music way too loud, he can't hear a thing. Also all new kitchen appliances and a new washer and dryer. Ive never been so excited to clean and cook. I almost forgot, our jacuzzi tub. It's heaven at the end of the day. Were all just so excited to be in our own home. Ryder is loving the backyard! From the second he wakes up the first thing he says is "outside." Sid is loving laying in the sun and running around after Ryder. Danny is loving coming home early on Fridays to mow the lawn then sit in the back yard and have a beer while Ryder plays. I'm most loving the fact that everything is new and I get to decorate!!! We love the community. Ryder and I are back to doing Stroller Strides and meeting new friends. There are parks everywhere and lots to do as a family.

Two weeks prior to the move Ryder was really sick. After 11 days he ended up in the hospital to get some IV fluid. I knew it was more than a virus even though everyone was trying to convince me otherwise. As a mom, when it comes to your children, ALWAYS trust your gut. The day after we moved we got his test results and he had salmonella. The diarrhea lasted 21 days. He lost over 10% of his body weight and refused to eat or drink. We had to hold him down and syringe feed him. He's doing much better now. Has his appetite back and were trying to plump him back up.

Here's my 18 belly picture

Ry finally passed out with his IV

Ryder is going to have a baby....

2010-04-19T17:19:00.000-07:00

Sister....

Ryder is such a sweet boy and will be an amazing brother! Even though he doesn't look to excited about it in these pictures.

Bad Blogger

2010-04-14T20:28:00.000-07:00

So I know I have been horrible about updating my blog. It's been 2 1/2 months since my last post but I swear I have a good reason......wait for it......Were pregnant again! Well that's not the reason I haven't blogged, it's because I have been sick, AGAIN! I expected to be sick this pregnancy because my Dr. warned me but it's so much harder this time. Trying to take care of an active toddler while I'm throwing up in a cup while changing a poopie diaper has not been fun!!! Poor Ryder has been a trooper but it breaks my heart I'm not well enough to keep him entertained and out and about all day. I know he wont remember but I feel like we both are missing out on so much! I honestly haven't picked up a camera more than 5 times in the last 2 months. And when I have poor guys always in his pj's as am I even at 4pm. Poor Danny hasn't gotten home cooked meals in months as a result of me being sick and he's taken on all the nightly duties with Ryder (dinner, bath, and bedtime). I feel horrible saying this since there are so many couples who struggle to conceive, but I HATE BEING PREGNANT. And pregnancy obviously doesn't like me. With Ryder I threw up daily until I delivered him. I'm hoping for an easier pregnancy this time. I was in the hospital once this pregnancy for dehydration and luckily each week is getting a little easier. And as long as my insurance company continues to pay for my meds which are $3000 a month, yes $3000 I can continue to keep some meals down and grow a healthy child. I'm just over 14 weeks, due 10-10-10 (awesome date).

Such his fathers son

Making one of Ry's favorite things, cupcakes

Strawberry picking at Tanaka Farms (so fun)

To put more on our plate, we just bought a house. We've been patiently waiting for this short sale (nothing SHORT about it) that we fell in love with back in September. It's FINALLY ours. We had a whirlwind escrow, all of 26 days but it was worth the wait. We have been remodeling the house for the last 4 weeks, it will be done and ready for move in next week. It will basically be a brand new house minus the kitchen and master bath when we move in. Those two things we plan on doing in the next year. Also a pool. The thing I'm most excited about is new windows (I can't stand old windows) and a jacuzzi tub. Also proud of the fact my hubby did most of it! Danny hasn't had a day off in 31 days (not even Easter) and will continue to work everyday until we move. He's been gone about 16 hrs. a day between his job and working at the house. I am amazed daily by how hard he is working to make sure this is our dream home. I wish I could give him the gift of sleep and relaxation right now. So we are all ready to move and get settled in and have life be a little easier!!!

sneak peak at some of the early stages of construction

You will have to stay tuned for before and afters. I promise it wont be in 2 months. One were settled I'm sure we will get back to a normal routine.

Balls of wax

2010-01-31T20:56:00.000-08:00

Sounds gross huh? Well it was!!! Poor Ryder was really fussy and crying recently which is really rare for him. Nothing would make him happy. His cries turned into a distressed scream and I knew something was wrong. His Dr. squeezed us in and on the way to his appointment it was raining SO HARD I almost turned around. Thankfully I didn't. I don't mind driving in the the rain but I was on the 91 and I couldn't even see out my window with my wipers going as fast as possible. Everyone on the freeway dropped their speed to 5 mph and turned there flashers on. Luckily that passed and we made it there. The Dr. checked his ears and he had so much wax in them he needed to get it out before being able to tell if he had an infection. He brings in this long metal gadget with a on eyelet on the end. As I held Ryder down the Dr. dug in his ears and was bring out HUGE balls of wax. Poor guy had them in both ears. After 15 minutes of torture and broken blood vessels all over his face from screaming, we were able to see that he had a double ear infection. He seems to be feeling better and hopefully we won't have to do that again!!!

Tutu's and more... also Children's Interior Design

2010-01-26T22:11:00.000-08:00

A very talented friend of mine has two businesses I'd like to promote. She makes darling theme inspired tutu's and other little girl must haves. Also she's an interior decorator who has fabulous ideas for nursery's and toddler rooms. Direct links are located on my blog under "Blogs I follow." The names of her blogs are Adisten's Closet and Modern-chic-tots. Now all I need is to add a girl to our family so I can get a few tutu's.

100 miles in 30 days

2010-01-17T23:04:00.000-08:00

Sounds easy right? What I mean is my new short term goal is to run 100 miles in the next 30 days. I start tomorrow! Unfortunately with all this rain I will be putting lots of miles on the treadmill which is boring compared to running the streets. 100 miles for my weight will burn 12,000 calories, 200 doughnuts and will save 6 1/2 gallons of gas. Wish me luck!

My Favorite Thing...so far this year

2010-01-04T16:05:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas Danny went shopping to find some Christmas lights hoping they would be half price. He came home with no lights but a gift for me. A Gel Pro mat for my kitchen. If feels like your standing on a soft gel. Christmas Day my back was killing me after standing in the kitchen for so long. I've always wanted this mat but couldn't imagine spending almost $100 on a kitchen mat. Let me just tell you, worth every penny!!! I LOVE it. I made 8 or so appetizers for New Years Eve and was in the kitchen ALL day. Cooking, chopping, doing dishes, but my back and legs weren't feeling any pain. Nice job babe! Happy wife, happy life. If your in the kitchen all the time or like me who it takes an hour to blow my hair out standing on hard tile, you NEED this!

A New Year, full of new things hopefully!

2010-01-03T20:14:00.000-08:00

I love the sound 0f twenty-ten! That's what I'm calling it. I have always made New Years Resolutions and I'm not sure how I feel about them. Should I make this HUGE resolution just to feel horrible when I break it? I think not. I'm not doing that anymore. When I do something, I get obsessed (not sure what the right word is) with going all out, 1000% or nothing. That's a big expectation to keep up for the WHOLE year. We all have to fall off the wagon sometime. Especially when your goal is to "eat healthier" or "work out everyday", let me just say, I have only one friend who seems to never cheat. She also has the most amazing body, much like a fitness model (sorry Hail to hold you so accountable). But that's not me. So I'm making small goals, lots of them, not one HUGE one. So maybe 2010 will be the start of a new type of resolution.

Things I would like to accomplish this year are: (in order of importance)

1. Open and close escrow on a home

2. Completely gut the house, minus the kitchen and a pool ( that will have to be next year)

3. Get pregnant

4. Be more patient ( a friend of mine chose this "word" to be her motto of the year. After thinking about this word, I've found myself daily loosing my cool with Ryder. I've yelled a lot and we've had a lot of timeouts lately, so I definitely NEED to be more patient!)

5. Run a 1/2 marathon

6. Workout consistently (minus teaching Stroller Strides I tend to only be consistent when I'm training for something)

7. Try a new dinner recipe weekly, a healthy one

8. Be more organized and tidy. (I keep a very clean home but tend to be messy with little piles of things that need to be put away)

9. Have date nights at least every 3 weeks

10. Take an online photography class

Hope everyone has a happy and healthy 2010!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-28T20:57:00.000-08:00

Christmas was WONDERFUL this year! We had a relaxing Christmas Eve. We drove around looking at lights, got pizza, and I read Twilight and drank wine while watching Danny build Ryder's toys. Danny and I were so excited to see Ryder open his gifts!!! Ryder decided to wake up at 7am Christmas morning (which is really early for us). He walked into the living room and it was love at first sight. "His kitchen, or Chef station as we call it." He loved it so much he could care less about the rest of his gifts. Danny and I were doing a really small exchange between the two of us since we hoping to be opening escrow on a house in the next 2 weeks and were planning on pretty much gutting it. But Daddy and Ry broke the rules and surprised me with a laptop. My mom, Andy, Haylee and Brian (sister and BIL) came over early afternoon to spend the day with us. Ryder's "new favorite" a shopping cart filled with food from auntie and uncle. He pushed that cart around the house for at least an hour with out stopping. We had a wonderful lunch and headed over to Danny's bosses house. They spoiled Ryder with a quad (which he's deathly afraid of). Then we spent tonight with Danny's brother Alex, his wife Kelly and our nephew Landon for a late Christmas. Ryder got a fire truck and a monster truck and now those are his new "favorites". Our tiny little place looks like Toys R Us. That's no exaggeration. How does one little guy have so much stuff. I swear a week from now he will want to play with Tupperware and wooden spoons. This was definitely the best Christmas so far and with kids I'm sure each year gets more fun. Hope you all had a wonderful Holiday!

Loves his kitchen

remembering Hawaii....aaahh

Enjoying his new bone

18 Months Old

2009-12-23T12:35:00.000-08:00

I say this every month but I seriously don't know where time has gone. I feel like we were just celebrating Ryder's 1st birthday. I have a love/hate relationship with this age. I mostly love it but hate the tantrums! I know that will get better once he can communicate more but it's hard not knowing why he's throwing a fit. He had his Dr.'s appointment yesterday wasn't happy to be there. The Dr. said he has 4 molars coming in all at the same time, which makes sense why we've had such a rough two weeks. He weighed 26 lbs. 10 ozs., was 34 inches tall and his head is HUGE. Almost off the charts. Must be why he's so smart. His vocabulary has increased to over 100 words and he repeats everything we say, I really need to watch my mouth! His favorite things to say are Santa (Seen-ta), airplane (air-play), tractor (which he says perfectly) and yellow (yea-yo). I love his little voice. Some of this favorite things are bananas, Gymboree, the library, Elmo, and taking baths. He is going through major separation anxiety right now. I have to shower while he sleeps, put on my make up when he's in the bath, go the the restroom with him watching me and cook while I trip over him at my ankles. So I greatly appreciate MY time while he naps. Danny and I are so looking forward to Christmas! We can't wait to see his excitement for all of his new toys! I'm sure each Christmas gets better and better.
I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas! XO

I'm having the worst day!

2009-12-12T13:13:00.000-08:00

I was at the mall at 10am this morning to beat the crowds and Ryder was a monster!!! I went to the MAC store and Ryder threw a fit and decided to throw Cheerios all over the ground. I'm trying to clean up after him while patiently waiting for the girl helping me to HURRY UP AND GET MY PRODUCT! We run into Bath and Body Works. All I need is a gift card, I will be quick. Well the line was 20 people long at 10:18. The mall had only been open for 18 minutes. Seriously? As I stand in line Ryder decides to pull everything he can off of the shelves around him. The store is so cramped I have no choice but to be close to merchandise in my sons reach. As I struggle to put everything back my stroller brake isn't on and slams into a display. I regroup and Ryder takes off his shoes and throws them. As I'm picking them up a gentleman is handing me Ryder's socks that he's already tossed among with books, Hot Wheels, milk and anything else he can get his hands on. I'm looking like one of those moms who people are thinking "thank God she only has one, she can't even handle him!" I'm out of here! If he was older I swear I would of taken him to the bathroom and given him a whooping. I get to the car and he fights me, he doesn't want to get in his car seat. Arching his back making it impossible to get him buckled in. At this point I'm wishing Danny were here to witness how BAD our son is acting! He screamed the whole way home. As I put him in his crib he tells me "no no" laughs and starts clapping his hands. Is he mocking already at 18 months? I put him down for a nap and decided to FINALLY blog about Thanksgiving and after 45 minutes of blogging my draft is somehow erased?!? I'm so mad! Then Ryder wakes up crying. He's only been down for an hour! Then as I'm yelling at the computer and Ryder's monitor Danny comes in and pisses me off even more by calling me a grouch. I wish I were him today and could go to work for a few hours, wouldn't that be nice. My son who is 18 months has hit the terrible twos too early and mommy isn't prepared!!!

Beautiful Maui

2009-11-29T18:09:00.000-08:00

So Hawaii was great!!! But the plane ride was stressful! I HATE to fly, I take medication and drink heavily on the plane. So flying with Ryder stressed me out even more. He didn't want to sleep at all. So after 8 hours of him being awake, I took him to the tiny plane bathroom and tried to rock him. I was stressed out, sweating, and wishing Danny could fit in the bathroom and could rock him to sleep. Ryder has always been a great sleeper and we have NEVER rocked him since the day he was born. He always puts himself to sleep, so he was not happy to be rocked in a stinky, tiny bathroom. After 10 minutes of screaming he was out cold. That lasted for all of 30 minutes. The flight home was about the same. So we are not flying to Australia anytime soon!!!

We were enjoying cocktails for our quiet 30 minutesFinally out

I'm always happy when my feet are back on the ground

Our beach

Our beach and pool

Loving the view

A boy of many faces

and many more

Deb and Dan (Danny's parents)

Our first night there

Loving attention from Granny

The turtles came to visit us at our beach everyday at happy hour

And one day a monk seal came to visit. He was just a few feet from me.

The Sheraton

Old Lahaina Luau

Enjoying lunch at Hula Grill

Very, very windy on this side of the island

but so beautiful

Danny and I had a wonderful date day. This is where we started it at breakfast. Banana macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup

We took a few mile coastal walk through Kapalua

and ended up at the Ritz Carlton beach for the day. We snorkeled and I paddle surfed for the first time.

Date Night

We got a bit of showers on and off and the rainbows were beautiful

Great sunsets nightly

Of course, they day we were leaving the weather was amazing

Thankful

2009-11-26T11:54:00.000-08:00

I have so much to be thankful for this year and everyday!

I am most thankful for the health of my family and friends.

I am thankful for Ryder who makes me smile and laugh each and everyday. I am so thankful I get to be his mom!

I am thankful for my supportive husband who is encouraging, hardworking and the most amazing father. And despite the economy has managed to work as many jobs as he needs to so he can provide.

I am thankful I have my dream job, getting to stay home and watch Ryder learn and grow everyday. I'm hoping to raise a son to be the kind of man his father is!

I am thankful for the roof over my head and the food on our table.

I am thankful to get to go to Disneyland any day of the week and see the excitement on Ryder's face.

I hope you have as much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving as well. Happy Thanksgiving!

What an Accomplishment

2009-11-18T20:44:00.001-08:00

So I completed my 1st triathlon. It was a 1/2 mile swim, 12 mike ride (10 of the miles were up hill which I was not prepared for) and a 3.1 mile run. I was hoping I was prepared and was shocked at how prepared I actually was. I have two HUGE fears. One of them is swimming with my head down in water I can't see in. I'm so glad I pushed myself to do something I'm so afraid of doing and actually did great at it. I was one of the first 10 girls out of the water out of over 130 women. I ended up completed the race in 2 hours and 7 minutes. It was one of the most challenging and exciting things I have ever done for myself, and I am so glad I did it. I have found a LOVE in working out harder than I thought my body was capable of and I really enjoy sweating to the point that I can ring water out of my clothing. Who knew? My mom and Kim came out to support me. We were leaving for Hawaii 2 weeks later so Danny and Ryder supported me from home. After the race we went to Vegas for the night and enjoyed the fruits of my labor!!! I am now training for my second 1/2 marathon and hope to be pregnant during the race. We will see.

6:30 a.m. over beautiful Lake Mead

getting ready for the swim

and were off...

coming in after 12 rough miles

transitioning from my bike to the run

finally done!! The clock shows an inaccurate time because the men start 30 min. before us and the clock never resets

myself, Joby (who helped prepare me for the race) and Sean

my proud supporters

enjoying a 10am beer with friends

finally... VEGAS baby (my mom, Kim, cousin Desiree and me)

ALOHA!!!

2009-11-01T20:02:00.000-08:00

Were leaving for Hawaii in a few hours. We will have plenty of pictures to share when we get home. Wish us luck on the plane with a 16 month old who wants to walk everywhere. Also I will blog about the triathlon when we get home.

I hope we can handle this for a week and a half

A few days of Halloween fun

2009-11-01T19:23:00.000-08:00

It was my turn to host Bunco this month and since Halloween is my favorite holiday I asked everyone to dress up. Most of the girls did. We had a ton of fun and I won, which made it more fun!

I took Ryder to the Tanaka Farms with some friends on Friday. He LOVED the petting zoo!

Danny went to a costume party Friday night and unfortunately I was sick. So I was at home and I have no pictures of him dressed up.

Halloween night we went over to Danny's bosses house and let Ryder do some trick-or-treating. It was his first time eating chocolate and he loved it. That must explain why he was up with us until 11:30 pm. But at least he slept in the next morning. He is actually on Hawaii time which we've been working on for weeks. That way he's not up at 4am when were on vacation.

Bunco

Tanaka Farms (those hot moms take my Stroller Strides classes, in case you want a body like that)

This was the first time Ryder has gotten this dirty and he LOVED it

Ry's little girlfriend Camille

Camille was throwing saw dust at him, he thought it was hilarious

The pumpkins we carved

Our handsome little golfer who would not wear his hat

Fall!!!

2009-10-21T22:05:00.001-07:00

Can you believe I made this? Actually four of them? I can't either. I love staying home, it's allowed me to get crafty.

1st haircut and not happy about it!

2009-10-21T21:52:00.001-07:00

I took Ryder to get his haircut after realizing the top is to long to do anything with. The back is curly, behind one ear is curly, behind the other ear straight and the top has a mind of it's own. Luckily since he's a boy I can keep it short. Poor guy fell asleep on the way there, I wake him up and he was not happy to be pinned down in a chair with the sound of clippers coming at him. So the top got trimmed but we weren't able to clean up the back very well. But he looks cute no matter how his hair looks.

(Some of the pictures are blurry, but you get the idea.)

Irvine Railroad Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-21T21:01:00.000-07:00

We headed to the pumpkin patch on a nice cool day recently. We didn't put Ryder in his costume but you will see pictures of that soon enough. After the patch we headed to Johnny Rebs for a GOOD breakfast. If you haven't eaten there it's a great place to take kids. It's loud and you can throw peanuts on the ground so you don't mind how much food your child drops.

Look how tall I am!

My Favorite Time Of Year

2009-10-21T20:42:00.000-07:00

We are so blessed with this weather. It turns to fall, gets nice and cool, a little rain, then warms up for a week. I love it. I'm sure everyone is ready for it to stay cool but were leaving for Hawaii in 10 days and I need to work on my tan before we leave!

This was Ryder's 1st picture with a character

Crashing and Anxiety!

2009-09-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

So I have been working my butt off training for my 1st triathlon which is going to be here shortly and I hope I'm ready?!?! I got a new bike for the race, it's called a hybrid, which is a mixture of a mountain bike and road bike I guess. I got some great shoes for spin class where my shoes snap into the pedals. So we decided to put snap in pedals on my bike also. My first time riding it I forgot my feet were attached to it, I went to stop and fell like a tree falling over. Later during the ride I unsnapped my foot and went to put it on the ground, fell again. I tried putting the wrong foot down. Later that week I was getting comfortable with it. I knew my days of falling were over. I was trying to u-turn on a narrow path and decided to go off of the path into rocks and gravel. I went down hard. It's been over 2 weeks and my knee still hurts and I have finally lost the scab on my arm but will have a nice scar for a memory.

This was right after I did it. It ended up looking much worse 2 days later.

Last weekend we went to the river and I think the pictures of my wake boarding crash speak for themselves. (Our new camera shoots 6 frames per second)

I tried to swim in the river to prepare for the swim portion of my race, I FREAKED out!!! So I swam 10 feet and jumped on top of Jody and her raft and refused to get back in the water. I had a full on anxiety attack hyperventilating and all. I'm freaking out right now just thinking about it. I have a fear of putting my face in water when I can't see what's in front of me. Unfortunately the race is in Lake Mead and I HAVE to put my face in the water. But the rest of the trip was nice!

I LOVE this age!!!

2009-09-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

Ryder is 15 months old and I want to stop the time... just for a little while. His personality is so cute, Danny and I are constantly laughing, so is Ryder. He got a clean bill of health at his 15 month check up. He weighed 24 lbs. 10 oz. and is 32 1/2 in. long. He's 50% for weight and 9o% for height. The doctor was very impressed by his vocabulary. He says between 20-25 words and will repeat anything.

He loves to be naked and dance in front of the mirror.
Claps, waves, and blows kisses.
Turned into a picky eater. He loves carbs, fruit and avocado. And snacking of course.
Points to lots of body parts when asked to.
Will pick out on object in the room when asked to. (Ryder, go get your ball)
Hates swim lessons unless I'm in the pool with him.

And some big news...Ryder started taking steps a week ago. He's not fully walking but 1/4 of the time he will.

Click below to see video

We have a new baby!

2009-08-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

Danny and I have a new baby and we are in love. Yesterday we got our Canon EOS 50D that we have been waiting and saving for. We sold our last Digital SLR before Ryder was born and then you realize how much you miss it. We had our little point and shoot that is great for my purse or pocket but the delay is slow. By the time we get Ryder to look at the camera and maybe smile, the camera focuses and Ryder looks away. So annoying. But those days are over. I need a 300 page manual to learn all the functions but the auto setting was fine for today. I'm sure I will be blogging more.

Your probably wondering why he's wearing long selves and pants since its 104 outside. That's what he wears to bed since we run our at 74' all the time. That is one area we are not green.

Crazy faces

New this week... "Ryder, how old are you?"

This is the new look if you take a toy from him, he will probably hit you also.

I had 4 kids today for a little while. One was sleeping.

His feelings get hurt when I raise my voice.

He's beautiful!!!

Two Fun Parties

2009-08-28T16:48:00.001-07:00

The summer is almost over and the weekly parties are coming to an end. We had a great time at Karson's 1st Birthday. They had tons of fun stuff for the kids. Unfortunately the birthday boy got sick that morning and we didn't get too see too much of him. Poor guy.

There was a woman making balloon animals for the kids, she was amazing! True talent.

My monkeys fooling around.

Rylie riding side saddle in Ryder's car. Such a lady.

It was warm out, so all the babies were in diapers staying cool.

Cash's 1st Birthday was at such a great park. There was tons of shade, a water park for the kids, and it was very western with covered wagons and all. We ate some good grub and listened to Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson.

Ryder looked more like a pirate than a cowboy.

Birthday Boy

Very cool BBQ

Mexican cowboy, my son and a gangster

Crazy Cowboys

Loved the idea of an icecream truck instead of cake!!

The last few weeks

2009-07-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

So I am working on Ryder's baby book and thankfully I have a blog to look back at the dates for all of his firsts. Am I the only one who forgets to write down the date of his 1st tooth or the 1st time he crawled? I feel like if I can't remember to do it with my first child, I definitely won't have time to do it with my second.

We've been super busy! In the last few weeks we've been to the beach to see epic waves for O.C., the fair twice, the horse races, Ry started Gymboree, lots of swimming, concerts in the park, and too many birthday parties to count. Were also looking to buy a home in the next 2 months, mommy started training for her 1st triathlon, which takes up 12 hours a week working out. Summers are so much fun, but so busy also.

Ryder still isn't walking but he's happy crawling. He learned to clap this week, and also give kisses(mouth open) . His new words are turtle, Ryder, and boo (peek a boo). He now covers his face with his hands or a blanket to play peek a boo. He's back to sleeping in late. This week it's been between 9am-10am. I think he must be sneaking out his window at night, because he sleeps in like a teenager. Unfortunately he's dropped his second nap, I'm sure that's why.

The boys and I headed down to "The Wedge" early one morning when the wave faces were 20-30 feet. The waves only break here when there is a South swell which is only a few times a year. It's very dangerous and a lot of the waves break in very shallow water. Unfortunately the day before we went, a 50 year old man was killed here. (click on the pics. to enlarge)

This was the crowd at 9am

The pics. are grainy because we haven't gotten our 15mega pixel camera yet, and I was zoomed to the max.

The O.C. Fair with friends

The Fair

Ry loves his Gymboree class, wish we would of joined sooner!

Bubbles everywhere

1st time on a surf board

The beach is exhausting

Concert in the Park

Concert in the park week 2