Chris and Laura

2012-01-27T21:04:00.000-08:00

Winter storm of 2012, what a way to start the year! I loved all the snow and the ice was actually very beautiful as well, but the power outage.........not my favorite! We didn't have it too bad considering some people were out for several days. Our two gas fireplaces kept our house pretty cozy and we just wore extra layers to help stay warm. The boys were troopers considering it gets dark at 5pm and they couldn't watch any movies. It wasn't the t.v. that I missed, just sitting down on a freezing cold toilet seat that made me cringe!

Easton and I stayed inside most of the time, we watched all the kids play from the front window.

Cohen wasn't too sure his first time out, he kept saying it was too cold! Finally he realized all the fun he could have and then he really enjoyed himself! He was really proud of his snowman that he built with his dad until it fell over the next day.

2012-01-01T14:42:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! What a great year 2011 was, and I'm looking forward to an even better 2012. I often stop and think about my life and I sometimes wonder if it's too good to be true. It's not perfect by any means, but I have been so blessed and I am so thankful. I know I am living some of the best years of my life. My boys have shown me a whole new meaning of love and they have changed my life. My heart is so full!

Cohen, you have been so fun this last year. You and I have the best conversations and I love to hear your little voice. I even love when you sing your abc's at the top of your lungs while we grocery shop! Your little heart is gentle and you are a bit fragile sometimes but you make me laugh everyday! You are a great big brother and I know you love your baby Easty!

Easton, you melt my heart everyday! I love your hugs and wet kisses! You adore your big brother and love playing with him. I think you are going to be our gentle giant. We always joke that you will be the boy who tackles everyone on the football field and then go back to see if they are ok! You are such a sweet boy.

I wish all of you a very happy 2012.

2011-12-29T12:56:00.001-08:00

Christmas morning! Both my boys love to help in the kitchen, especially Cohen so Santa brought them their very own kitchen. They spent hours playing together Christmas day and have busy cooking pizza and making coffee ever since!

My two most favorite presents ever.......

Christmas day was super relaxing. We woke up, had a yummy breakfast, played with all our new toys, went to visit some friends and ate steak and crab legs for dinner. It was a perfect day!

2011-12-29T12:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve........a wonderful night with family, food, excited kids and way too many presents!

Christmas carols with Grandma. Finley was trying not to fall asleep and Easton was trying not to fall down the stairs! Thanks Oliver for rescuing him a million times, your the "best guy" as Cohen says.

Wish this night could have lasted longer!

2011-12-29T12:10:00.001-08:00

Baking cookies!

Not sure how many sprinkles actually ended up on the cookies, but this was probably the best part for them.

The most beautiful sugar cookies!!!!

2011-12-15T12:45:00.000-08:00

On December 7 2011 my sweet boy had his first birthday. This year flew by, much quicker then my first year with Cohen. It's always a bittersweet day for me. Excited to watch him grow and learn new things but sad he isn't so little anymore and those baby days are coming to an end.

the invites

the goody bags

present time

He loved his birthday cupcake! He loves everything actually so I wasn't surprised when he devoured it.

Easton, you have been such a joy this last year and I am honored to be your mama! I love you more than anything. I am so thankful for Gods faithfulness, you were born perfectly healthy, our prayers were answered. I will never forget the heartache we went through after your 20 week ultra sound. You had several obstacles to overcome in my belly. Every morning when I come into your room and say "good morning angel", you smile and I know you are my gift from God.

2011-12-13T06:30:00.000-08:00

So thankful. I am thankful every year and everyday for this life God has given me. We spent Thanksgiving with the Potts this year and had a wonderful time. Tom made a delicious meal and my sister set a beautiful table, and the kids loved every minute together!

Grandam and Oma, thankful for grandparents that love my kids.

Papa, thankful he is so gentle and sweet with the babes, they all love him!!!

So thankful for my sister who makes me laugh so hard I usually pee my pants a little bit!

Excuse Easton's lower half, I had skinny jeans on him and he couldn't sit up straight because they were a little too tight. He was not happy so we decided no pants are better then uncomfortable pants!

2011-11-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Easton was a tiger and Cohen was a dinosaur this year. Easton was not a fan of his costume, probably because it was a little tight and I had to squeeze him into it! Cohen however loved dressing up and has tried to squeeze himself into the tiger costume to play "Simba" from the Lion King.

We hosted a little party for some friends and had a great time. Lots of food as always and some fun Halloween goodies!

Mike and Madeline

Lacey and Hudson

Jackson, Chase, Hayden and Cohen at trick or treating. They absolutely loved this and we spent about an hour walking around our neighborhood.

Chris and Talon

Chase and Cohen

Jackson checking out all his treats!

Probably one of the funnest Halloweens I have had. I know I will say this every year but it just gets better and better. I love being a mom and love watching the joy and excitement in their little eyes.

2011-10-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

Maris Farms 2011

Liked the idea of feeding the goats but then changed his mind after the first nimble!

Sweet Easton just stayed in his stroller and finally fell asleep.

First cow/tractor ride with Berk and Oliver!

First face painting, stayed perfectly still until she finished! I told her to paint the quickest thing she could, sitting still for longer then a minute isn't one of our favorite things to do!

Had so much fun with the cousins, even though it kept getting colder and colder. Love the fall and everything this time of year brings. Love my family so so so much!

2011-10-03T14:26:00.000-07:00

We spent a long weekend up at our friends cabin in Cle Elum and had a great time. It was warm so we spent our mornings at the park and headed to the lake after lunch and naps.

I love this picture, I hope these two are the best of friends!

2011-10-03T14:17:00.000-07:00

I think our summer weather is officially over. I am sad to see it go but love the fall and look forward to all the fun ahead of us! We had a wonderful summer and enjoyed being outside as much as we could. The boys played in our little pool almost every day. Easton loves the water as much as Cohen so they had a lot of fun together.

One of Cohen's favorite thing to do is help Chris in the yard. He loves picking weeds and maybe some flowers too!

Loves drawing.

Loves playing cars, in fact I think boys are born making sound effects!!!!

2011-09-18T13:38:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorites this summer........watermelon

frozen blueberry waffles........

and ice cream cones!!!!!

2011-08-18T14:05:00.000-07:00

My dream boy! Easton is eight and a half months old and has been nothing but smiles! He wakes up with a smile on his face and falls asleep with a smile on his face! Getting him to fall asleep isn't always the easiest though, he loves to snuggle and usually isn't ready to be put down until he is completely out! I have to admit, I do enjoy holding him in the evenings and I know these times won't last much longer.

He has the cutest little curl at the base of his neck. I would love some curly hair in our family but I don't think it's going to last.

I love you my sweet boy and I hope this smile never leaves your face.

2011-08-13T16:27:00.000-07:00

We spent the day at Ocean Shores a couple of Sundays ago and had the best time. The weather was beautiful, actually got a sunburn at a Washington beach!!!! The kids ran and played all day and came home with sand in every crevice of their little bodies!

Lisa gets the best horse award! She crawled around and played horse with the kids much longer than I could have and loved every minute of it!

2011-07-18T14:11:00.000-07:00

crash and burn.......

2011-07-11T14:11:00.000-07:00

We had family pictures taken about a month ago. I had high hopes of getting a two year old and a six month old to both look at the camera and smile at the same time but obviously it didn't happen! In fact Cohen was in a bit of a grumpy mood that day and it was a struggle to get even a few good shots.

They really do love each other but you would never know it by looking at this picture!

This is the boy I know!!!!

And this is the boy who has a smile on his face pretty much every time I look at him!

2011-06-09T14:21:00.000-07:00

Cohen had his first haircut the other day! Yes, he is two years old, yes, he has a mullet and yes, I am totally in love with it! I never thought it would be a big deal to cut his hair but it's just one more step that means he's getting bigger and I just don't like that!!!!

I only cut two inches off so it's still on the longer side. He did so good and loved all the attention he got from my beautiful co-workers. I have a feeling he'll be begging me for haircuts so he can come in and check out the ladies.

I promise you can wear your hair however you want, and don't be too upset when you look back at pictures, you look adorable in your mullet!

2011-05-26T13:49:00.000-07:00

Our first little getaway as a family of four! We spent last week down at Seaside and Cannon beach and had the best time. The weather was beautiful, a bit chilly but sunny every day and I was so thankful we got to play at the beach all day! Cohen loves "dirt", the sand, and loves to dig and build castles. He picked out a tiger kite and hasn't stopped talking about it since we have been home.
My dream boy! He was just about perfect the entire time. Slept through every meal, kept his same sleep schedule even though he was in a completely new place and was such a trooper. He actually doesn't mind being in the stroller which is so opposite of Cohen.

Our room was a little small and even smaller when we brought in all of the gear that comes along with two small kids. The boys loved playing on the bed together, in fact this is where we all hung out before bed time.

Chris took Cohen swimming and he couldn't get enough! He loves baths and I knew he would love the pool. It was hard getting him out! So thankful we were able to get away and spend some time together. Love my family so much!

2011-05-02T14:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter! We had such a fun time this year, Cohen was really into everything! We had breakfast and did an egg hunt in the morning and after naps we went to the Potts house for more yummy food and another egg hunt.

Easter egg hunt at the Potts house. Gramma hid all the eggs but I think they had more fun hiding them for her to find.

Chris took about 20 pictures and this was pretty much the only one with all of them looking at the camera! I guess that is what you get with 5 kids being 5 and under.

We dyed eggs that night and Cohen tried his very best to be patient and not dip his hand in every cup of colored water.

2011-04-11T13:30:00.000-07:00

Just a few of one four month old and one two year old that I am head over heels in love with!

2011-03-24T12:13:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY COHEN! We love you so so so much and we are so thankful for your precious life! Can I just keep you this age forever????
Cohen is obsessed with cars so we did a car theme birthday party.

Dave got Cohen a dinosaur that walks and makes sounds and it totally freaked him out at first. He kept saying "dinosaur bite" but once he realized he was a nice dinosaur he loved him!

Loved opening presents and of course had lots of help from his cousins Berkeley and Oliver! She put two bows on his head and thought she was so sneaky!

Cohen adores his Gramma and Papa, it's the first thing he says every morning when he wakes up! So thankful to have parents that love my boys as much as I do.

Our favorite Uncle Tom, Aunt Lisa and little birthday buddy Finley.

Helping Chase drink his water, probably waiting until he was done so he could steal his cup!

Little Easton was held the entire time and was loving life!

2011-02-15T12:11:00.000-08:00

I think I must be the luckiest mom in the world. With two very precious boys I can't imagine my life getting any better. I really wish I could freeze time right now. Cohen is almost two and I don't think I have ever laughed so much in my life! He has the best personality and is so full of joy and excitement. He is repeating everything we say and sometimes decides "no, no, no" is his favorite thing to say. My house is rarely ever quiet and when it is I'm anxious for them to wake up and liven it up again!!!!

One of his favorite things to do! Usually while we are making dinner, he is making dinner too!

He LOVES the motorcycle!

He also LOVES Miska (Mickey). I have to admit I have let him watch a little more t.v. then normal but with Easton being to little sometimes I just need a little entertainment for Cohen.

Pretty much my favorite thing to do these days...........I know they won't last much longer.

So sweet when he sleeps, he really is the best baby! Can't believe he is already 2 and a half months old. I wish I could have ten more just like him but Chris has promised me I would be a single mom if that happened! He loves watching his big brother and I'm afraid he's going to grow up too fast wanting to keep up with him.

2011-01-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from our family to yours! What a special Christmas this was, probably my favorite so far! I can't help but get a little teary eyed when I think of how blessed we are and how good God is. Christmas Eve was magical and I am so thankful for my family. Really sad to see it all end and already looking forward to next year!

This traditional gingerbread house, some of the candy goes on the house but most gets eaten by a few little decorators!!!! Oliver was very patient with Cohen while he tried so hard to be like his big cousin.

I think the hour we spent opening presents was complete chaos and excitement for these kids. It really is so much more fun to see the joy in their eyes when they open their gifts.

Sweet Berkeley must have carried this present around for awhile after dinner waiting so nicely for us to finish washing every dish the boys used to make dinner! Next year I'm doing paper plates so they don't have to wait so long.

Christmas night we had some friends come over and by this time Cohen was totally into opening presents!

We waited to give Cohen his presents from us until Sunday morning. He had already gotten so much and just wanted to make it last a little bit longer.

A new ATV from Grandpa and he thinks he is pretty cool driving it down the hall way, so cool he drives with his eyes closed and runs into the wall. I think we'll wait until we can drive outside with this toy!

2010-12-29T14:56:00.000-08:00

Here is my sweet boy at two weeks old. Lisa was kind enough to pack up her three kids and take some time for some photos. He pretty much slept through the entire morning, kind of surprising with all the chaos around him!

2010-12-18T13:10:00.000-08:00

Our sweet bundle.........Easton John born December 7, 8.5lbs 21 in.

2010-12-05T13:36:00.000-08:00

Still waiting for the best Christmas present ever..............

2010-11-17T22:41:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when a few little five and six year old girls get their hands on an innocent 19 month old little boy. The funny thing is Cohen loved having his makeup done!!!!

2010-09-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

Just a few of my favorite boy..........playing with bubbles

playing in the rocks.........

mowing the grass..........

I love you more than anything Cohen!

2010-08-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

Here I am, about 26 weeks pregnant and feeling great! I literally forget that I'm pregnant most of the time. Maybe because the second time around I don't have time to think about everything because there is a little person keeping me very busy!!!! We have decided not to find out what we are having, we love the surprise. We honestly don't care either way, just praying for a healthy baby. Cohen is clueless he is going to have a new baby brother or sister but he does love my belly button right now! It's hard for me to imagine my life with two babies. I love spending all my time with Cohen and I know a newborn is going to change that. Everyone tells me it will come naturally and I will fall in love with baby number two just like I fell in love with my first.

2010-08-11T10:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, where has the summer gone? We have been enjoying the sunny weather when we have it. Cohen loves to be outside and in the water! We packed a picnic and went to Point Defiance park for the day and had a great time running around and feeding the ducks. He is almost seventeen months old and is so much fun. I love this age and wish I could freeze time.

Our first attempt at camping. Chris wanted to go so badly last year but camping with a new baby just didn't sound fun to me! We found a great little spot right on the river and set everything up. Cohen loved going in and out of the tent and really loved bouncing on our blow up mattress! We spent most of the day on the river throwing rocks and trying to keep him from jumping in. After dinner we started a fire and when Chris took the garbage to the dump he noticed a "no campfire" sign. Half the fun of camping is the fire so by 7 o'clock it was getting cold and the bugs were coming out so we decided to pack up and come home. Luckily we were only and hour and a half away from home. It was a great day trip and were hoping to get a real camping trip in before summer is over.

2010-05-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

We spent last weekend at the beach and had the best time together. We left Saturday night after I was off work and drove to Ocean Shores. It was such a nice little get away with my family. The weather was great and we couldn't have asked for a better time!

Cohen wasn't too sure what to think about the sand at first. I tried to brush it off every time he would sit down and keep him sand free but realized I would spend the entire weekend trying to keep him clean and it just wasn't going to happen. Needless to say he had sand in every crevice of his body!

We collected a lot of rocks and shells. He loved walking up and down the beach.

I love these two boys more than anything!

2010-04-13T19:50:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter! Cohen had a great time playing with all his eggs and basket. My favorite part of this holiday was his seer sucker suit. I just fell in love with it and had to get it for him. Chris has made me promise that I won't make him wear stuff like this when he's 13!

He loves his shoes too. My little guy is still wearing a size 2! Will he ever grow?????? I am actually glad he's stayed small, I'm really not ready for him to get bigger!

2010-04-08T11:08:00.000-07:00

My sweet boy turned one March 23. I can't believe how quickly this year has gone and how much he has grown and changed since the day we brought him home. He has been the most amazing little man and I'm so honored and blessed to be his mom. We celebrated with lots of friends and family and had a great day. Thank you to everyone who came and made his first birthday so special. I wish I would have taken more pictures of our guests, I just didn't have enough hands!
Cake and cupcakes.

Jess and sweet Sophia, she was a great helper when it came time to open the presents!

Berkeley sat with me the entire time and helped open each present.

Talon and Chase playing the piano.

His first cupcake ever and the first time he has ever been this messy! I am not a huge fan of food all over his face but I know it's part of learning to eat.

I don't think he liked being covered in chocolate. He was pretty much done with the whole party at this point! We love you so much Cohen and look forward to watching you grow up, not too fast though!!!!!

2010-03-08T18:22:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite things to do, many, many, many times throughout the day.
Pull everything out....

find the best toy ever, the water bottle....

roll it around the entire house and chase after it....

a couple more times around....

finally get tired out and is ready to be picked up!

Play dates with Luke, Hayden, Cohen and Jackson.

This was taken seconds before they all realized they were in a crib and could possibly have to stop and take a nap and burst into tears!

Cohen takes his Tonka truck very seriously. Chris is training him early so he can buy him a matching Harley someday!

2010-01-28T14:13:00.000-08:00

Just an update on Cohen, that seems to be the only person I take pictures of! He loves to stand and walk around holding on to his toys and furniture. He crawls but since all of our floors are hardwood he ends up doing the army crawl most of the time. He doesn't seem to mind, he gets where he wants to go! These pictures were taken at the beginning of the month I am just late posting. We had his 9 month check up and he's only in the 5th percentile for weight and 15th for height. We're calling our 16lb 14oz 27in long our little midget!

He loves to stick out his tongue and laugh! He really does think he's funny and so do we!

He's had his bottom teeth since October and has two on top that have broken through and two more ready to pop. Needless to say this last week has not been easy. He won't sleep more than 4 hours through the night and after once he has fallen asleep wakes up the minute we put him down and screams. He just wants to be held. I feel bad for him and hope it gets better soon.

This is his latest face and he says oooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhh when his does this!

2010-01-06T13:36:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I think 2009 was probably the best year of my life!

2009-12-31T13:42:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful time with family and friends, I know we sure did! I think every year just gets better and having little ones around defiantly makes it more fun! We had my family over Christmas Eve, our usual tradition. The boys made a fantastic dinner and the girls and my dad played with the kids. Christmas day Chris and I stayed home and it was great! We took a couple of naps and Cohen played with all of his new toys. Later that evening we visited some friends and drove through town looking at all the Christmas lights. It was a really nice day for the three of us!

Berkeley and Oliver probably ate as much candy as they put on the gingerbread house! This has been a fun tradition and maybe someday they'll finish the entire thing instead of Papa.

Cohen really enjoyed opening his gifts and chewing on all the paper and bows. Oliver and Berk helped him check out all his new stuff and they were so much fun to watch.

I am so blessed!

2009-12-20T20:33:00.000-08:00

Well December has been a busy month and I wish it would slow down just a little bit! We put our tree up Thanksgiving weekend after we got home from Leavenworth. If you aren't in the spirit after visiting Leavenworth then I don't know what else you can do! Cohen loves the tree, loves the lights and loves to touch all the ornaments. He actually helped me decorate, it took a bit longer but I hope to make it a tradition. I remember helping as a kid and I loved getting all the boxes out and going through all the ornaments Lisa and I made. I always wondered why my mom kept all macaroni art and Popsicle stick figures, they were pretty awful looking. Now I know, and I will think they are beautiful just as she did and probably still does!

We went to Snowflake Lane in Bellevue and this is another fun tradition we have started with the two best cousins in the world! Oliver is always asking to "find Coco" and Berkeley is wanting to hold him as much as she can. I am so thankful they are going to grow up together.

We met some friends down at the Old Canary.

Chase and Cohen.

2009-11-11T09:25:00.000-08:00

I can't believe November is almost half over and Thanksgiving is just a couple of weeks away. This really is my favorite time of year. I love the fall colors and the anticipation of the holidays. Cohen and I stopped to play in the leaves and he loved it. My sweet little boy makes me smile!!!

2009-11-04T06:50:00.000-08:00

Cohen's first Halloween and he was a little spider! We spent the evening with his two favorite cousins and had a great time. This is the first year Chris and I didn't dress up, maybe next year I'll be more motivated! I kind of forgot about Chris and I, just wanted to find the perfect costume for my little guy!!! I love Halloween and I love seeing all the little ones in their costumes.

2009-10-20T17:59:00.000-07:00

Cohen and I took our second trip to the pumpkin patch and this time with dad! Chris was at a Seahawks game the first time we went and he really wanted to go back to help Cohen pick out his first pumpkin. We missed Berk and Oliver, pretty quiet without those two!!!!
He loved holding all the little pumpkins and gourds.

He's actually laughing at another little girl in this picture. They kept talking to each other every time they saw one another. I'm going to have to keep my eye on this boy, he loves the ladies!

2009-10-12T12:35:00.000-07:00

The other night Cohen had woken up around 1 a.m. so I went in to feed him. Usually he eats and he is out within 10 minutes or so but for some reason this time he was wide awake and ready to go! So we ate, we talked and sang, danced for awhile and by 2 a.m. I was getting tired and he was too. He still wasn't asleep but he was rubbing his eyes so I laid him down on his tummy and he put his head down closed his eyes. I stood and looked at him for a couple of seconds and he opened his eyes, lifted his head and gave me a huge smile and then fell asleep. It was the sweetest thing.

2009-10-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to Whistler with Tom, Lisa and Jerry and had a wonderful time. It's so beautiful up there and I can only imagine what it's like when everything is covered with snow. Tom and Lisa left their bambinos at home, so poor Cohen had to be entertained by Lisa and I. He always laughs at us which encourages us to keep telling jokes. I missed Berk and Oliver but I know it was a nice time away before the new baby arrives!
We took the gondola to the top of Whistler and rode across to Blackcomb and had lunch. The weather was perfect the entire time so the views were really amazing. There were a ton of mountain bikers with no fear riding full speed down the mountain. They were fun to watch.

Tomcat getting frisky with Chris!

So sad to say goodbye, we'll be back next year!!!!!

2009-09-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

I just can't get enough of him!!!!!

2009-09-14T17:22:00.000-07:00

I can't believe summer is just about over, so sad. We had some really warm days and Cohen loves to be outside and loved swimming in our very chilly pool! We had lot's of BBQ's, went to music in Pioneer Park every Thursday night, went on walks almost every evening and just enjoyed spending time with friends and family.

I love this little person so much! I'm not sure how I wake up every morning and love him even more than the day before but somehow I do! I can't imagine my life without him.

2009-08-24T18:54:00.000-07:00

Saturday night was a dream come true for Chris, he took Cohen to his first Seahawk game! We weren't sure how he would do but he loved it. He actually fell asleep before the game and slept through the entire second quarter. It's still pre-season so it wasn't as crazy as usual but we all had a great time!

2009-07-27T16:34:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday July 23, Cohen had his 4 month birthday! He is 25 inches long and weighs 14 lbs. He's in the 50th percentile for length but only the 30th percentile for weight. He's still wearing some of his 0-3 month clothing which is getting a little tight but the 3-6 month clothing is all pretty big on him. I know he's growing like crazy and soon enough all the cute little outfits will be way too small. The blanket he's laying on was made by my dear friend Valerie. When she found out I was pregnant she learned how to crochet so she could make him his own blanket. It took her months to make but it turned out beautiful.

The first thing he does when he wakes up and the last thing he does before he falls asleep! He can't seem to get enough of his fingers or mine in his mouth. Usually he's got both of his hands and is gagging on them because they are so far back.

After his shots! He loved the band aids the nurse put on him.

2009-07-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July! We went over to the Potts house and like every party they throw, it was fabulous! Great food, great company and the weather was perfect.

The next day everyone gathered at our house for a late Fathers Day brunch. I love watching my parents love their grandchildren, it's so sweet!

2009-06-18T11:20:00.000-07:00

Wearing his favorite hat from dad! We actually stopped and bought it on the way home from the hospital.
My happy boy! He is smiling and laughing and chatting nonstop, so much fun! I am loving his little personality.

First train ride with Papa, but I don't think he's really enjoying it, maybe next year.

I think the cats have finally come to an understanding that their noisey little friend isn't leaving any time soon! Hopefully they'll love eachother someday!

2009-05-20T15:25:00.000-07:00

My little big guy at 8 weeks old!
I love this picture and Berkeley loves to help feed Cohen. He has the best two cousins in the whole world!!!!

Here are the boys! From youngest to oldest, Cohen, Preston, Luke, Jackson, Hayden and Prestons big sister Madison. Missing are Solomon and Cameron. It has been so fun to watch our work parties change over the last year. We used to get dressed up to go out and now we all sit around and watch the boys play together.

My sister threw the most amazing baby shower for me. I feel like it should have been featured in Town & Country! She is so talented when it comes to hosting parties. I know she doesn't have any free time with two little ones and I know she spent many hours making everything perfect. Thank you so much Lisa, I love you!

2009-04-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a month since our lives have been forever changed! No matter how much I prepared, how many ideas I had of how it was going to be, how much advice people gave me, how I was going to do it better, I truly did not know how I would feel until Cohen was born. I didn't know I could love someone so much and be willing to give up everything for him. Being a mom is the hardest thing I have ever done but also the most amazing experience I've had in my life. Things are going really well, just trying to get into a routine of some kind. I don't know how I'm ever going to get out of the house by a certain time but hopefully we'll get it figured out! He has been a great baby. He's already up to 9lbs 30zs, doesn't have a problem when it comes to eating, in fact he could eat all day!!! G uess he takes after mom and dad! Lisa came over and took just a few (200) pictures and I knew I couldn't post them all, I can't even post all of my favorites but here are a couple.

2009-04-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

We are in love with our precious baby boy, Cohen Christopher, 3-23-09.

2008-10-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

Well I am about 16 weeks along and feeling great! I never actually got sick, thank God, but I was pretty queasy all day during my second and third month. We have had two ultra sounds and I think my favorite part is listening to the heartbeat. I still forget I'm pregnant sometimes but that definitely makes it feel real! I've gained 5 pounds and haven't had any weird cravings but I did have to go to the store at 9:30 one night for those little chocolate doughnuts! I think I'll blame that one on Lisa, that is part of her daily diet! Chris and I have decided not to find out what we are having. I have always wanted to wait and he thinks he can be patient enough to wait too. So far the last six girls at work have all had boys so we'll see if I break the trend or have the lucky number seven! I really don't care either way, just want a healthy happy baby.

2008-09-14T14:47:00.000-07:00

2008-09-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

We did the "Puyallup" on Monday and had a great time. Berkeley loved the rides and probably would have been on the biggest roller coaster there if she would have been tall enough!

Little Oliver was a good sport and the only ride he got to experience was a ride in his stroller! He did like the curly fries though!

Grandma and Berkeley on the slide. She loved the slide too and is trying to talk dad into putting this one in their backyard.

My cute sister with her blow-up monkey.

2008-08-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

What happens in Leavenworth stays in Leavenworth!!!!
We spent the weekend in Leavenworth with our friends Dave, Stacie and their daughter Parker. We had so much fun. The weather was a perfect 103 and the heat felt so good!

Chris and I rode the bike over. This was my longest rode trip yet. You would think all my extra padding on my behind would offer some comfort but after 3 hours I was so ready to get off. He just got back from a 2,200 mile road trip to Yellowstone with a few guys, I think they are crazy.

2008-08-19T21:33:00.000-07:00

Six random things about me,

1. I have been known to unload and reload the entire dishwasher if the dirty dishes look unorganized and aren't put in the designated spot.

2. I love cows, especially swiss cows. If Chris would let me have one as a pet I would.

3. I went skydiving a few years ago and thought it was the most amazing feeling. I would love to do that again.

4. When I worked at our downtown salon I had the opportunity to cut Chester Benningtons hair, the lead singer of Linkin Park. He was a really nice guy and totally down to earth.

5. I have traveled to 7 different countries, not including Mexico or Canada. I love to travel and cannot wait to visit places I've never been to before.

6. I was born in Southern California and moved to Washington when I was 11 years old. I could live almost anywhere in the world as long as my family was with me.

There you go Kim!!!!!!

2008-07-08T21:43:00.000-07:00

Someday I want one just like her..............
...................and just like him.

2008-04-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

I choose love...
No occasion justifies hatred; no injustice warrants bitterness. I choose love. Today I will love God and what God loves.

I choose joy...
I will invite my God to be the God of circumstance. I will refuse the temptation to be cynical...the tool of the lazy thinker. I will refuse to see people as anything less than human beings, created by God. I will refuse to see any problem as anything less than an opportunity to see God.

I choose peace...
I will live forgiven. I will forgive so that I may live.

I choose patience...
I will overlook the inconvenices of the world. Instead of cursing the one who takes my place, I'll invite him to do so. Rather than complain that the wait is too long, I will thank God for a moment to pray. Instead of clinching my fist at new assignments, I will face them with joy and courage.

I choose kindness...
I will be kind to the poor, for they are alone. Kind to the rich, for they are afraid. And kind to the unkind, for such is how God has treated me.

I choose goodness...
I will go without a dollar before I take a dishonest one. I will be overlooked before I will boast. I will confess before I will accuse. I choose goodness.

I choose faithfulness...
Today I will keep my promises. My debtors will not regret their trust. My associates will not question my word. My wife will not question my love. And my children will never fear that their father will not come home.

I choose gentleness...
Nothing is won by force. I choose to be gentle. If I raise my voice may it be only in praise. If I clench my fist, may it be only in prayer. If I make a demand, may it be only of myself.

I choose self-control...
I am a spiritual being. After this body is dead, my spirit will soar. I refuse to let what will rot, rule the eternal. I choose self-control. I will be drunk only by joy. I will be impassioned only by my faith. I will be influenced only by God. I will be taught only by Christ. I choose self-control.

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. To these I commit my day. If I succeed, I will give thanks. If I fail, I will seek his grace. And then, when this day is done, I will place my head on my pillow and rest.

Max Lucado

2008-03-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter! I have always loved holidays but they are so much more fun with little ones!
Berkeley was off to hunt for eggs, coffee in hand!

2008-03-03T11:16:00.000-08:00

This is what Jon does when he comes over, we have a really great BBQ and he climbs up the front of our house!

2008-02-03T12:15:00.000-08:00

This is the view I woke up to the other day. Thank you God for your incredible beauty.

2007-12-23T13:16:00.000-08:00

Well, this is my last post of our trip. I can't believe it's been two months since we've been home. This was probably one of the most incredible trips I have ever taken. To see history that I've read about since I was little and to experience culture from four different countries was a dream come true. We are just a tiny part of this huge world.

We walked through the Roman Ruins where more of uncovered each year.

We took the subway and every car had been decorated with graffiti. It was really cool.

Our last dinner together. We ate at this tiny little place owned by an Italian family and they treated us like we were old friends. Our waiter was the cutest guy and had a great personality. He kept asking if he could take Angelsea home for the night!

Here we are at the Trevi Fountain. The tradition is to toss a coin into the fountain which is a promise you'll be back to visit Rome again, yes we all threw coins in. I threw in a couple of extra hoping I'll visit this amazing city many more times. I hope you all are able to visit someday. Ciao!

2007-12-23T13:03:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned how amazing the shopping was?

We toured toured the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel. Both were full of beautiful art and history. We also saw the Pope while we were there. He's the little guy in white very far away!!!!

2007-12-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

Rome had to be one of my favorites! I loved everything about this city, the fashion, the cafe's, the chaos and especially the 2,000 year old building known as the Colosseum. I've heard so many stories, seen so many pictures but to stand inside the Colosseum was incredible. This amphitheater could hold up to 50,000 people.

The floor is missing and below are underground passages where they kept animals and prisoners. Criminals, gladiators and animals fought to death and this is what they considered entertainment!

2007-12-17T15:09:00.000-08:00

We only spent a few hours in Florence, not enough time for this city full of art and history. We saw Michelangelo's David at the Accademia and took a tour of the Uffizi Gallery.

2007-12-01T17:45:00.000-08:00

Sitting down for another fabulous Italian feast!

This is Tuscany. A beautiful town full of vineyards, olive trees, tiny boutiques, great little restaurants and more gelato! The hotel we stayed at was family owned and they made it very hard to leave. The food was all made from scratch, the cappuccinos were incredible and the it felt like a home away from home.

Angelsea being creative with her photography!

2007-11-25T11:15:00.000-08:00

Venice, Italy. Venice is Europe's best-preserved big city. A hundred islands linked together by 400 bridges and 2,000 alleys. This is one of the cities I have dreamed about visiting. Someone described it as being "magical" and after spending a couple of days there, that is the perfect word for it.
Our first night we took a gondola ride through the canals.

Eating gelato! I think we ate gelato everyday sometimes twice a day. Thank God we walked so much, our pants were getting a little tight!

Chris and I in the amazing St. Mark's Square. The square is lined with cafe's and every night the cafe orchestras compete for an audience. We spent hours just enjoying the music and more gelato!

2007-11-18T19:36:00.000-08:00

Standing in two countries, Austria and Germany.

On our way to our hotel in Austria we stopped for some fun, the luge.

Once again, a beautiful country. Everything is so clean.

We hiked a few miles along a lake to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle. There are gorgeous castles scattered all through Austria.

I took this picture from our bus, so excuse the water running down the windshield. I thought this was so cute, just taking his cows out for a morning stroll.

2007-11-14T22:36:00.000-08:00

The Swiss Alps, probably one of the most breathtaking places I have ever seen. The pictures don't do it justice, you'll just have to go there and see it for yourself one day! This is where one of the James Bond 007 movies was filmed.

Angelsea, Marcella and me. We met some really great people on our trip and one of those couples were Brandon and Marcella from Chicago. Her husband is below between the boys.

We took a gondola lift up to the Schilthorn at 10,000 feet. It was incredible. People actually paraglide from the top spending 45 minutes flying down to Interlaken (town we stayed). The Alps are also filled with mountain bikers, hikers and skiing in the winter. Living in the Northwest I get to enjoy our mountains but they hardly compare to this.

Once we got down we walked back to our chalet and along the path they had "water holes" with crystal clear drinking water.

Swiss cows! I love cows and this guy even kissed my hand. We had fondue our first night and of course swiss chocolate, yummy!

2007-11-07T21:42:00.000-08:00

Our last night in Paris was pretty exciting. France was playing New Zealand for the World Cup playoffs and the entire city was celebrating their victory. They weren't expected to win and when they did everyone went crazy.

We left the city and drove through beautiful country side full of vineyards and pastures. Beaune was a completely different place. A much quieter place with cobblestone streets and wineries just waiting to be visited!

All of the food was delicious but I especially loved all the cheese.

Couvent Des Cordeliers winery. This place was beautiful. Beaune is famous for its wines and this was a big highlight for Chris. He was actually in France 5 years ago and couldn't wait to come back a visit the vineyards.

Yes, these are the tongs that Angelsea and I used to eat our escargots (snails) and cuisses de grenouilles (frog legs). The snails were really good. They were covered in garlic butter and once the meat was gone you could pour the sauce from the shell on your plate and dip your bread in it. The frog legs were really hard to eat because they were full of small bones and didn't have much flavor. I had to try it!

2007-11-04T12:57:00.000-08:00

Bonjour from Paris! I still can't believe we were there! Chris and I, along with our jet-setting friends, Chris and Angelsea spent 15 days traveling through France, Swizterland, Austria and Italy. It was an amazing trip to say the least. This has been a dream of mine for a long time and it was everything and more that I hoped it would be. I have so many pictures to share and I hope I don't bore you for the next few weeks!
All of the buildings in Paris are beautiful. This city is full of structures that are over 2,000 years old and they are still standing. Everything is so well maintained and you can't help but fall in love with the architecture.

We arrived in France early Friday morning, dropped off our bags and walked, got lost a few times, but finally found the famous Eiffel Tower. The tower stands 1,000 feet tall and wasn't built to serve any function but to impress.

Arc de Triomphe. This is the city's largest square and most congested with traffic. This is where the Tour de France bicycle race ends along with any parade of significance.

Our first night we too a cruise down the Seine River. Everything was lit up and even more beautiful. The french don't neglect details!

Sainte Chappelle is a Gothic church which was built to house the Crown of Thorns. It took only six years to build, which is unheard of Gothic times. There are fifteen panels of stained glass (6,500 square feet) that tell different stories from the Bible.

Notre Dame. This cathedral is 700 years old and only took more than 200 years to build! Can you imagine working on this your entire life and never seeing it finished?

2007-11-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

On our second day in Paris we visited The Louvre. This is Europe's biggest, oldest and greatest museum. This is the home of Mona Lisa, and many other famous paintings and statues. Not only is the outisde beautiful, but the inside is breathtaking as well. Not a single detail was left unfinished. I posted a picture of a section of the ceiling just to give you an idea.

Paris is full of gorgeous parks. Chis and I spent our last few hours just walking around the Tuileries Gardens enjoying the quiet in this city full of life and energy.

2007-10-29T17:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! I love this time of year and I love that everyone gets to dress up for parties, not just the kids!
Dave and Stacie, the lovely hosts.

Alex and Cassandra.

Sergeant "A" arresting "L Dizzle"! Angelsea and I incase you couldn't tell. I've never been arrested before, but if the officer looked like this it probably wouldn't be so bad!!!!!!

The referee Miss Valerie!

Dancing or fighting, I'm not sure which one!

Well it's been forever since I last posted and so much has happened. The best news is that our house finally sold and closed early September. What a relief. It was on the market for about seven months and I hope to never go through that again. It actually sold two times and both offers fell through. We still have some of our things boxed up just incase we had to move back and put our new house on the market. It was an emotional rollar-coaster and a test of faith. I knew it was all in Gods timing but I went through a lot of up's and down's.

The next best thing is that we went to Europe! We spent 15 days traveling through 4 different countries and it was amazing. I have almost 2000 pictures to go through and can't wait to share them. We've been home for a little over a week now and it still feels like a dream.

Chris and I also celebrated our 7 year anniversary, which is another "best" thing! I can't believe it has been 7 years. We have had so much fun and I'm so thankful for our lives together. I love you Chris!

2007-09-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

Bumble and Bumble (salon in NYC and product line) were on tour and came through Seattle and invited our entire company to a private show. Many of their editorial stylist, who are featured in almost every magazine were visiting, so it was really neat to see them in person. Since our salon is so small, we thought it would be fun to rent a limo and all ride together. I know it sounds just like high school prom, but we're all a bunch of dorks and like doing stuff like this!!!!!!

This is one of two stages they were working on. Below is one of the many models they were working on.

The show was really great but I think we had more fun on the ride there and back!!!

2007-08-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

Please welcome Oliver Thomas! Lisa is doing great and hopes to come home this weekend. He seems to be a very happy baby and tolerated lots of pictures and passing around in his first few hours of life! Berkeley couldn't take her eyes off of him! He is beautiful and I am so proud of Tom and Lisa! Congratulations, we love you guys!

2007-08-13T18:42:00.000-07:00

We finally squeezed in a camping trip this summer! We spent this last weekend in Ocean City and had a great time. It sprinkled a little Saturday night and Sunday morning but when the sun came out it was beautiful. We spent a lot of time at the beach and a lot of time eating our way through the weekend.

Sad Chris when it started to rain on his campfire, he is quite the boy scout!

Love, love, love smores!

Goliath and Angelsea running on the beach. Her idea of jogging is like sprinting. I tried to keep up with her but I am way too out of shape. Goliath slept really well that night!

Chris practicing his karate kid moves.

2007-07-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday was our 2nd annual company picnic on Lake Tapps. The weather was a little unpredictable, but we all bundled up in sweatshirts, gathered around the fire-pit, ate a ton of food, and had a great time!

Melanie getting ready at my house.

Madison, Joel and Jordan.

Joel started fishing right away and caught a bass within 15 minutes! I love fish but I hate the thought of them suffering, it's so sad.

Brittany, Lacey and Paige. Kaycie and friends!

Kiely was the only one who went swimming! This girl is crazy!

I love these girls, and I love the fact that I get to work with some of the funnest people in the world!!!

Enjoying the fire!

2007-07-13T18:28:00.000-07:00

Aloha from Hawaii! From left, Autumn, Jordan, me, Eryn and Cassandra. We spent the last few days on Oahu and had the best time. This was actually a trip through our company and Eryn brought me along as her guest for free! The weather was beautiful and a little girls getaway is always fun!

We were on the beach by 9 a.m. and didn't leave until after 5. Most of our time was spent floating in the ocean and we even swam with a sea turtle. He was huge and kept poking his head out of the water about 3 feet from us. I am not exagerating, he was swimming right under us and it was incredible and kind of scary at the same time.

We went to a luau our final night and I think I've decided when I grow up I want to be a hula dancer! The little girl pictured below was incredible! I don't know how they shake their hips the way they do, but it's impressive.

The surfboard that Eryn and I tried to master, it actually mastered us!

I never get tired of palm trees and beaches! Thankfully I came home to warm weather, now I just need some white sand tropical drinks to carry me through the summer!

2007-07-06T19:19:00.000-07:00

Well since Lisa isn't posting any pictures of her cute little belly, I wanted to! This was taken on the 4th of July at a friends bbq on Lake Sawyer. In just a couple of months we'll meet baby Oliver!

2007-07-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

We had a visitor in our pool yesterday! I am calling her Hazel, usually the name I give random animals that I meet. She jumped right on Chris' shoulder and hung out with him for a few minutes. By the time I got my camera she had jumped away but I caught her and brought her back in the pool with us. She was really cute and a great little swimmer!

Only my husband would buy a remote control ski-boat to race around. Actually our neighbor bought one too and now they race eachother. It has been so beautiful and I know summer is going to fly by but it's so nice to have some warm weather.

2007-06-01T18:52:00.000-07:00

We celebrated another 30th birthday! Since Chris (right) was born in the 70's, we decided to have a 70's party for his birthday.
Dave and I dancing. He was teaching me some of his famous moves back in the day.

So sexy!

I knew exactly where to find my outfit, my mother's closet! My grandma actually made this for my mom when she was pregnant with me. I still remember my mom wearing this when I was little. It was really comfortable and I was tempted to keep it for myself until Chris informed there would be no baby conception if I continued wearing it! Oh well!

Don't you love the pick in her afro?

2007-05-14T15:47:00.000-07:00

She rarely passed gas, but when she did, it came out pink and glittery, and it smelled like candy, and people cried when it went away! Happy Birthday sister! (birthday card for Lisa that made us cry from laughing soooooo hard)
The four of us went to Portland last Saturday night to celebrate the big "30" for little Lisa! We had so much fun laughing, shopping, and mostly eating our way through town! They had so many great restaurants and some really cute boutiques. They left Berkeley with my parents so it was a great time for them to spend together before their lives get even crazier with Oliver!

Lisa, thank you for making me laugh! You are the best!

Lisa and I sipping one of the best mocha's I've ever had. When Chris visits Portland he discovers some great places and we went to his favorite French Bakery for freshly made pastries and coffee. We were in heaven.

2007-05-11T06:41:00.000-07:00

Happy 30th Birthday Lisa!

I don't know what I would do without you. You have been not only the best sister anyone could ask for but also my best friend. I admire your strength, your wisdom and you have the best sense of humor!!!!! I hope someday I can be half the mother that you have been to your daughter. I am so thankful for you and so blessed to be your sister. I hope you have a wonderful day. Thanks for being so great! I love you mucho!

2007-05-08T07:50:00.000-07:00

Chris and I spent a few days in Bend, Oregon last week and I fell in love with this little town. He has been going a couple times a year for the last few years to host wine tastings and always comes home just raving about Bend. I decided to go along and see why he loves this place so much. It is the most quaint and charming little town. All the homes are old and very well taken care of, the landscaping is gorgeous, there are a bunch of little boutiques and art galleries, fantastic restaurants and extremely nice people. It's in the desert so they don't get too much rain, but there are still beatuiful weeping willows and huge old trees everywhere. If you haven't been, it's worth the drive to spend a long weekend over there. They also have every outdoor sport possible. I'm hoping to go back this summer and do some white water rafting.
This is the river that runs through town. There is a path to walk along and little benches placed along the way. I spent a few hours reading on this bench while Chris was working.

2007-04-19T21:36:00.000-07:00

Spring Fashion Show 2007. Team Artistic put on a fashion show a few weeks ago at EMP and they did an amazing job. They used some people from our company and the rest of the girls were all professional models from Seattle, New York and L.A.
This is the model Cassandra from the reality show "America's Next Top Model". Now I know models are skinny but when you see one in real life they are even skinnier!!! She was absolutley beautiful in person and it was so fun to see someone that I had watched on T.V. in person.

What girl doesn't love fashion! We all had a great time.

2007-04-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

Things are going great in our new house, except the neighbors Yorkie, Chester keeps going potty in our yard! He is old but I'm afraid his life may end sooner if Chris gets a hold of him! All of our neighbors are wonderful and we really love the feel of our neighborhood. I have been walking every morning and it seems like everyone either has a dog or a stroller so I feel a bit out of place but I've got my ipod so I'm okay.

It has been a little, well a lot stressful the past few weeks. The day after my last post the offer on our old house was pulled and so it is still up for sale. I know everything happens for a reason and all in God's timing but two mortgages, two utility bills and two yards to take care of can be pretty overwhelming! I'm just praying it sells quickly!

Hope you all are doing well and enjoying the few sunny days we've had. I am so looking forward to some warm weather. Pictured above is Shafer, she's just poking her head out from the bottom cupboard. I actually closed the door on her for a couple of hours, on accident of course! Such trauma for a cat!

2007-03-09T21:39:00.000-08:00

What a crazy time!!!!! Chris and I have been busy moving so I apologize for the lack of posts on my page. This is the third home that we have moved into and hopefully the last for awhile. We have decided to make realestate one of our major investments which explains three houses in our six and a half years of marraige! Last night I was thinking about the faithfulness of God and how He orchestrates each move to work out perfectly. We wouldn't be here today without His timing and blessing.

Before we were married we began the construction of our first home. It wasn't fancy, but it was ours and we were so proud. We knew we wouldn't be there too long, and after two years we began searching for the next house. We found a new neighborhood being built and fell in love with it. The lots were large and it was a gated community surrounded by trees. We chose our floor plans, and spent endless hours at the design center picking out molding, tile, door hinges, and everything else that goes into a home. The construction began and every weekend we were there taking pictures of each step. We had met our neighbors and some of our friends ended buying a home in the same community. We were so excited. Once the majority of the construction had been done, we noticed the size of the garage seemed too small. It's so hard to tell actual size when it isn't complete so we measured our smallest car and measured the length of the garage. Long story short, they had built the foundation too high and we lost five feet because stairs had to be put in. The builder wasn't willing to fix it and so we ended up backing out. We wanted our cars inside, that is the point of a garage. We were crushed, and completely dissapointed. A few weeks went by and we began looking again. New construction in our area was incredible and we found a new developement. Most of the homes had already been built, there were just a few lots left. The house Chris and I both loved was one of the larger homes and there was only one lot left it would fit on. It was the lot we both loved. It backed up to a greenbelt with a park right next door. Once again construction began. The next few months went perfect, our home was complete and we moved in. I know the reason our other house fell through and we ended up where we did. God had some very special friends waiting for us that lived right next door. I don't know what we would have done without Chris and Angelsea in our lives. They have been our travel buddies, cooking buddies, motorcycle buddies and laugh until we can't laugh anymore buddies! We love them dearly and we would have never met them if our house would have been built correctly.

When Chris and I were first married we would take a lot of drives and dream about our future. There was one neighborhood that we both just loved. It overlooked the valley on one side and Mount Rainier on the other. About a year ago we began driving through a couple times a month just to see if anything was for sale. Just this past summer one of the homes was on the market. We called Tom right away and he came out to do a walk through. As soon as we arrived he found out it had just sold! Well we weren't in a hurry and if it was meant to be it would work out! This area is still growing like crazy so we were constantly looking for something that would be a wise investment. While we were in Arizona our rental house was in the process of being sold. It had been a great investment but we were ready for the next step. The weekend after we came home from Arizona we drove through our "future" neighborhood and there was another house for sale two doors down from the one we looked out previously. Once again we called Tom and he looked it up online and said we needed to move quickly if we wanted to buy it. It had been for sale last summer and sold, but fell through on a contingent offer and was up for sale again at a lower price. We scheduled a walk through that night. We loved the house, but loved the view even more! We made an offer the next day and they accepted. God's perfect timing once again. The following weekend our house went up for sale and sold shortly after. It's not final,(contingent offer) but I am trusting God will take care of everything. So things have been a bit crazy and very emotional but life is a rollar-coaster and it's pretty exciting. Please pray the sale of our house goes smoothly. When we dream Big God dreams BIGGER! I think that is my new slogan!

2007-01-29T21:32:00.000-08:00

Well, it was time for some warm weather and sunshine! My parents headed to Hawaii and we decided on Scottsdale Arizona. This was my first visit and it was very different than any other place I've vacationed. Everything is very brown and all the houses blend into the desert, so until it's dark and everything is lit up, it seems very isolated. It was wierd not having the ocean close by and I found myself missing our lush green trees. The sunsets were beautiful and I loved all the cactus that covered the grounds. All of the shopping areas are very cute and well thought out. There are a ton of restaraunts and a ton of golf courses, which the boys enjoyed almost everyday! My digital camera broke on the way down so I had to use a disposable one, the pictures didn't turn out very good, I apologize! Lisa will have much better pictures and a much more detailed and interesting post to read about our trip! She is the writer in the family!
This was Berkeley's first vacation and she did great. She loved being outside and loved shopping with us. Well, I'm not sure she loved it but Lisa and I convinced ourselves she did!
Chris and I rented a bike towards the end of the week and explored Arizona. Chris actually lived there for about eight years so we went and found his old house and he showed me some places they used to go. We started riding up to Peyson and discovered SNOW closer to the top. Needless to say it was very cold on the bike so we turned around. The ride was beautiful though. We would be surrounded by the desert and then all of a sudden there would be these huge rock formations and then they would end, and there would be rolling hills full of pine trees. It was amazing how fast the landscaping would change.

It is always nice to get away but I always look forward to coming home! Thanks for a great time you guys!

2007-01-08T20:07:00.002-08:00

100 things about me:

1. I am 31 years old.
2. I am pretty short, only 5' 2".
3. I wear a size 6 shoe, I always have a great selection at the sales!
4. I think I'm pretty funny.
5. My husband usually doesn't laugh at my jokes.
6. I have freckles and I used to pray they would all blend together so I would be really tan!
7. I love my freckles now.
8. I am a brunette with hazel eyes.
9. I was born in Southern California and moved to Washington when I was 11 years old.
10. I have been happily married for 6 years and 4 months.
11. I had a double wedding with my sister.
12. It was one of the best days of my life.
13. I cried the entire way down the aisle.
14. I loved our wedding cake.
15. We drove away in a Rolls Royce that Chris and I both wanted to keep.
16. I am married to Christopher Bradley.
17. He is full of life and energy.
18. He has very BIG dreams for our family.
19. He is an extremely hard worker.
20. He makes me laugh everyday!
21. He is a big kid at heart.
22. I love his brown eyes.
23. I can't imagine my life without him.
24. Someday maybe we'll have kids of our own.
25. I love my family more than anything.
26. My sister is my very best friend.
27. My little niece is amazing.
28. The gift of life is the greatest gift.
29. I love Jesus Christ.
30. I have learned a lot about Religion vs. Relationship over the last few years.
31. Worship is my favorite part of the church service.
32. I think I cry every time.
33. There is nothing like feeling the presence of God.
34. I struggle with being in the world and not of it.
35. I have a long road ahead of me.
36. I love my job.
37. I am a hair-stylist.
38. I work with some very talented people that have become some of my closest friends.
39. It's a great feeling to make a woman feel beautiful.
40. I love red hair.
41. I have two persian cats that I adore.
42. Their names are Hampton and Shafer.
43. They have the most precious little faces.
44. I could be considered one of those "crazy" cat ladies!
45. I am guilty of spending too much money on handbags and sunglasses.
46. I hate designer knock-offs.
47. My favorite designers are Marc Jacobs, Chloe, YSL, Celine and Dolce & Gabbana.
48. I can't stand those "croc" shoes that were made to wear in the garden and now are being worn everywhere.
49. I don't understand why people wear socks with flip-flops?
50. I love to travel.
51. We have been to Hawaii: Kauai, Maui and Oahu.
52. We love Mexico: Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas, Cancun and Puerta Vallarta.
53. Some of our favorite cities we have visited include, Hong Kong, New York and San Fransico.
54. The most beautiful beaches were on the islands of Leyte and San Pablo in the Phillippines.
55. Some of the most beautiful people in the world live on those islands.
56. They taught me what it means to be thankful for much when you have very little.
57. I love the beach.
58. I love the sun.
59. I love sunsets.
60. I could lay in the sun for hours.
61. We are planning a trip to Europe fall of 2007.
62. I have always dreamed of going to Italy.
63. I love culture and history.
64. I love cobblestone streets and old archictecture.
65. I love coffee.
66. My favorite part of the day is morning.
67. I love food.
68. I am willing to try anything.
69. Raw meat or fish doesn't scare me!
70. I love experiencing different restaraunts.
71. If I had to chose only one store to shop at the rest of my life it would be Anthropologie.
72. I never leave that store empty handed!
73. I love big cities.
74. If I lived in the city I would sell my car and walk everywhere.
75. My favorite view of Seattle is on a sailboat in Elliot Bay at night.
76. I went sky-diving four years ago.
77. It took my breath away.
78. I hope to do it again someday, it was incredible.
79. I fall asleep every time I get in the car, not while I'm driving!
80. The idea of a road trip sounds fun but I would rather fly.
81. I love to dance.
82. Chris and I took salsa lessons last fall, he hated it!!!!
83. I don't have one favorite color.
84. I love chocolate brown with pale colors.
85. I love fresh flowers from our yard.
86. Dahlias are my favorite and we have a ton of them, they are gorgeous.
87. I love to watch plastic sugery on T.V.
88. I always close my eyes during the violent parts.
89. I played soccer for most of my young adult life.
90. I was pretty mean out on the field.
91. I was usually bloody by the end of the game.
92. I took piano lessons for 8 years.
93. My mom made me practice everyday for a half hour and I hated it.
94. Now I wish I still played.
95. I love riding on the back of my husbands motorcycle.
96. I perfer short finger nails rather than long acrylic ones.
97. I don't like lip liner, especially when it's darker than the lipstick.
98. I think less is more in every sense of fashion.
99. I believe in quality vs. quantity.
100. I live a blessed life.

2007-01-05T18:07:00.000-08:00

Happy 2007! We had a wonderful New Years Eve and we hope you all did as well. We spent the night in Seattle and I always love being downtown when there is a holiday. I love seeing the streets full of people and feeling the energy of the city. We started out with dinner at Brasa and it was a beautiful dinner. Usually they serve Italian but the menu was Porteguese (sp) and it was fabulous!!!! After dinner we crowded into The Apartment, which is a little lounge and then went to Amber along with the rest of Seattle. They were both so crowded we went next door and did a little, well a lot of dancing at Tia Lou's! I think we were the oldest ones there but we had a good time anyways.
Greg and Eryn
Stacie, me, Andrea and Eryn
Eryn and Andrea
Yeah baby, Happy New Year!!!!!
We are looking forward to another year full of memories. We wish all of you love and happiness.

2006-12-28T21:15:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone!
Chris decided to buy season tickets to the Seahawks this year and he has loved every game. Rain, snow or wind Chris comes home with a smile on his face. They played on Christmas Eve and Tom decided to brave the cold and help Chris cheer them on. They lost, but they boys had a good time anyway. With Chris and Tom being gone that left me to do the cooking. I must say Lisa and I rose to the challenge and I think we proved ourselves in the kitchen!
I love this picture of Tom and Lisa.
Berkeley was the highlight this year. It's so much more fun with little kids. She wasn't feeling very well but we had a great time watching her open her gifts. She was very delicate with the paper and tore each piece carefully. She takes after Lisa, extremely neat and already a perfectionist!

Sterling helped every chance she could, I think she was hoping for more treats!

Well another wonderful Christmas has come and gone. This month has been a whirlwind with all of our crazy weather and holiday festivities. I love all the parties and get togethers but I also look forward to slowing down and just enjoy being home. We got all of our decorations up late this year and I have decided to keep them up a little longer than usual. I know our tree won't last forever but everything else is staying until mid January! We haven't been home hardly at all and I just want to enjoy them for a bit longer. They house always feels more cozy with white lights and garland.

A few years ago our family decided to draw names and set a budget for gifts. We are all at a point in life where we really don't need anything and can buy what we want throughout the year. This has been such a blessing. Berkeley doesn't count but she is so much fun to buy for! Every year I realize more and more what brings joy to my life, my family and friends. No gift could compare to the love and happiness they bring. I was overwhelmed this year when I sat back and looked at the blessings in my life. I have taken for granted that I am surrouned by family and friends at holiday time but there are many people out there that are alone or have lost touch with their family. Thank you God for reminding me of what matters most in life. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and wish you a wonderful New Years.

2006-11-25T21:36:00.000-08:00

Well the holidays are here and I just love this time of the year! Our Thanksgiving was wonderful and I truly feel like I am thankful everyday for my family, friends and the blessed life I have been given. I hope all of you enjoyed this special day and know that we have so much to be thankful for. Every year since we have been married except last year, Berkeley was a brand new baby, Lisa and I have gone downtown for the Macy's holiday parade. Our favorite part is the confetti at the end of the parade, the entire Westlake area is covered in it and everyone fills the streets and watches it cover the ground. They have a live band playing Christmas music while we get ready to jump in and begin our shopping. I look forward to this every year and God always blesses us with sunshine even when it's raining at home.

2006-11-13T14:34:00.000-08:00

I am now 31 years young!
Lisa and I, does she keep getting taller and thinner or is it just me?
Angelsea, this picture captures her personality!
My fabulous husband who made his famous spaghetti dinner for 2o people, went to Seattle and got my favorite cheeses from the Cheese Cellar, sent me a beautiful bouquet of flowers on my birthday, and took me to my favorite sushi bar for dinner. You are the best!
Some of the girls!
Lisa, me and Kim (mother of 4 boys, doesn't she look great!)
I wasn't able to get pictures of everyone but it was a really fun night. I am so blessed with great friends. I feel like my birthday was celebrated for an entire week. We went to the Melting Pot one night and to Marzanos, which is the best Italian food ever, a few nights later.

2006-10-31T13:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!

Autumn as a cat.
Starr as a fairy, her wings were very cool in real life.
Kara as Dorthy from the Wizard of Oz.

I love Halloween parties and all the costumes. I'm not the most creative person when it comes to designing a costume but I would have fun wearing anything. We went to a couple of different parties this year so enjoy the pictures. Hope you all have a great Halloween!

2006-10-31T13:24:00.000-08:00

Cowgirl Lacey and Cassandra the hippie.

Melanie in combat! William as a pro-tennis player with super short shorts.
Eryn as a witch and me inspired by the 80's.
My tough biker husband! As much as Chris wishes those tattoos were real, they were only stickers and will soon be washed away.

2006-10-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

We carved pumpkins last Friday night at the Pott's house.
One last ride before it gets too cold. Our fall has been absolutely beautiful. The sun has been out almost every day and it has been pretty warm considering it's the end of October. I'm a total wimp when it comes to riding in the cold but Chris convinced me to get out there one last time! I love riding through all the small towns and curvy roads covered with autumn leaves. Every store has pumpkins and corn stalks at the entrance, you can't help but love the fall.
"Peek-a-boo". Berkeley and I had a little photo sessions going on here. I kept taking her picture and then she would grab the camera and wait for it to show up on the screen. She loved seeing herself. It's a good thing she likes her picture taken, right Lisa!!!!!!!!
Watch out, this little one can move! While she was on the carpet she didn't go too fast but once she hit the tile she had a hard time slowing down. I can't believe she is almost one years old.

2006-10-10T22:17:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was one of my favorite type of days. The sun was out, the air was crisp, the leaves had begun to fall from the trees and I was with some of the people I love the most. It is Berkeley's first Halloween and we had to take her to Maris Farms in Bonney Lake to get her first pumpkin. This little farm has pony rides, tractor races, a corn maze and it's a great place to spend a few hours and just enjoy seeing a bunch of little kids picking out their pumpkin with such excitement.
The sweetest little pumpkin!
My favorite family! I love you guys so much.
This picture just makes me smile. Berkeley is cracking up at her Uncle Andy!

2006-10-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

"Creating a style is like creating a work of art. You have to layer and sculpt to maximize the effects of surprise and pleasure." ~Luigi Murenu
Luigi Murenu preparing his model

Runway show, wow!

Just recently I was invited to an event that was incredibly inspriational. I am a hairdresser and work for an amazing company but also a very demanding one. I love my job and wake up every morning excited to go to work. I feel so blessed to be in the position I am. But as all of you know, sometimes the things you are most passionate about become tiresome. Every once in awhile I need a little pick me up and this event did the job!

Luigi Murenu is an editorial stylist. His clients include everyone from Madonna to Cameron Diaz. He left his hometown in Sardinia when he was just 20 years old working in Paris and London before moving to New York ten years ago. Within two years he was requested for major editorial, advertising and runway shows. His vision and talent have made him a leading figure and influence in both the fashion and entertainment arenas.

We met at The Ruins which is a private club in Seattle for an intimate presentation. Luigi Murenu had just flown in from Paris the day before and has been working extremely hard the last few weeks. He looked exhausted but was so gracious and made us all feel like we were life long friends. He shared his story and the journey he has been on. This man has traveled all over the world, worked with high end fashion designers, models, photographers and still is the most humble person I have ever met. He makes his work look so easy and effortless. Watching him gave us all something more to strive for. This was an opportunity I will not soon forget. There were many cameras, which means many flashes so the pictures aren't perfect but I had to share them anyway.

2006-09-18T06:59:00.000-07:00

My little hombre!
We're back from a fantastic vacation in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Chris and I flew down and spent the first couple of days together and then our great friends and favorite vacation buddies joined us. We had planned the trip months ago and a week before we were supposed to leave hurricane John arrived. For five days we debated whether or not we should cancel. We watched the news, checked the internet, called the hotel and tried to find out if anything had been destroyed. Pictures on the internet showed some flooding but the eye of the storm never really hit the city. We looked at resorts in Scottsdale, San Diego, Vegas but nothing sounded as fun as Cabo so we decided to take a chance. Angelsea and I convinced the boys everything would be okay and we would still have a great time. Well it was perfect! Nice warm sun, around 100 degrees everyday and the best mango margaritas ever! It did rain for about an hour the first day we were there but other than that it was beautiful Mexico.
Chris and Angelsea, we love you guys!
These hammocks were so relaxing
We had most of the pool to ourselves, I guess the storm scared everyone else away.
Just one of many nights on the dance floor! Our feet were killing us at the end of each night. The four of us took salsa lessons last year but the boys weren't too excited to practice their skills. That's okay, these Mexican dancers were a little advanced for us and we had a hard time keeping up with them.