Geeting Family Blog

A new way of life for our brave guy

2012-01-15T07:39:00.000-08:00

Quick update

2012-01-12T07:38:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update before we head out for a chest xray for the guys and more meetings with doctors. Yesterdays tests all went smoothly. Dr. Ackerman (world leading doctor on Long QT) told us that after tests Preston is in the lowest risk category and he would recommend NO treatment. That means Preston will NOT be doing the denervation surgery that Hayden will have done. However, it gives even more reason to want to remove the internal defibrillator that never needed to be implanted to begin with.

Preston has three options with that. One, is removing all parts of the device but that leaves a 1% chance for a "catastrophic" outcome while they use a laser to remove the lead (wire) to his heart. The second option is to remove the majority of the device but leave the lead behind. This is less risky but has the potential for other risks in the future for leaving a piece of foreign matter attached to his heart. The third option, is waiting another year and a half until he would have to have his battery changed anyway, and make the decision then. It's a lot to process and figure out. We have a final meeting today with the surgeon and we are hoping for some more clear answers. Thanks for all the messages on f.b., the texts, emails, and voicemails. I wish I could reply to each one. But know we are all so thankful for your prayers, thoughts, and support!

Our trip to the Mayo Clinic

2011-11-10T10:33:00.000-08:00

Long Q-T... seemingly harmless words. But not so with the two most important men in my life. Since Preston was diagnosed when he was 25 and Hayden at birth, those little letters have caused nothing but havoc in our lives. But I have to say, after our trip to the Mayo Clinic this week we are all starting to see a little light at the end of the Long QT tunnel. In August when Hayden had his fourth syncopal episode we were at UCLA in his hospital room talking with our team of doctors about our options. One option being implanting an internal defibrillator, which is what Preston has. But we are understandably fearful of doing that since in 2007 Preston's device misfired, shocking his body 10 times causing irreversible damage to his heart. Another option that had been mentioned after Hayden's 3rd episode was brought up again, a new surgical procedure being done at the Mayo Clinic. We were told the leading authority of Long QT in the world, Dr. Ackerman was the man behind this new surgery. It's a denervation which involves cutting a nerve that is part of the sympathetic nervous system that leads to the heart. It would in essence keep Hayden's body from sending a signal of adrenaline to his heart, acting like a shield. It could mean that Hayden would never require an internal defibrillator, which was such encouraging news!

So, Monday morning we all flew out to frigid Rochester, Minnesota to meet with Dr. Ackerman and learn more about the procedure. I was so anxious about this meeting. The idea of having to make another hard decision on how to best keep Hayden safe was weighing heavily on my heart. But after 90 minutes of speaking with Dr. Ackerman all my fears and anxieties about making that decision seemed to disappear. We told him of Hayden's four episodes despite being on an aggressive dosage of beta blockers and of our very catastrophic family history. He looked over all of Hayden's medical reports, countless EKG's, and electrocardiograms and stated, "Hayden is as high risk of a patient as I have ever seen." That was so hard to hear as a mom whose been dealing with this day-to-day, trying to constantly keep things in perspective and not let this disorder define Hayden. That's when the emotions boiled over and I started crying. My very compassionate little guy came over and gave me a hug, a kiss, and his blankee.

Dr. Ackerman explained the denervation to us and it wasn't nearly as scary as we originally thought. They have performed 90 of the procedures, 35 on patients with Long QT. Of those 35 patients, none have had any episodes since they started doing the denervation 5 years ago. The youngest patient to have the denervation was a 6 week old, very different that what we had been told at UCLA that Hayden would be the youngest. The side effects we can absolutely count on are minimal and the more unlikely ones are not serious. The incision would be in Hayden's armpit and the procedure itself only takes 30 minutes with a 2 day stay at the Mayo clinic. The recovery is easy and Hayden would be back to his normal, active self in just a few weeks. After hearing all of the information, Preston and I both felt completely confident in our decision to go ahead with the surgery. We will most likely be going back the first week in January, once all of our busy holiday plans are behind us. Besides, it wasn't quite cold enough for our California blood in November so we thought the middle of winter would be much better! Ha!

Our trip could not have been a more positive and encouraging one! We thank everyone for their prayers and positive thoughts you sent with us to Minnesota. We are very excited about what Hayden's new future looks like. Sports and active play may not be out of the question anymore! Such fabulous news for our boy who is on turbo speed all the time!

Sigh. A super big, long, frustrated, saddened, SIGH.

2011-09-12T20:56:00.000-07:00

Madelyn's homework today had to do with the character trait of the month- responsibility. They had some questions to answer about being responsible and the last question they were to draw a picture and then add a caption on what they were going to be more responsible about this month. This is what Madelyn did...

On the lighter side, I have a story about Madelyn that has made me laugh out loud every time I think about it. I want to document it so I don't forget...

My dad was putting both kids to bed on Friday and proceeded to tell them a "cloud story" which is a wonderful thing he started when April and I were young and the purpose of it is to make you calm and relaxed, and hopefully help you fall asleep. As my dad told the story he could tell the kids were relaxing more and sinking deeper into their pillows. When the story was done the kids remained quiet so my dad was certain they were asleep. Moments later Madelyn says, "Phew! That almost put me to sleep!" Well Madelyn, that was the whole point you silly girl!

Santa Barbara

2011-09-02T21:07:00.000-07:00

Over Labor Day weekend Preston was away in Australia on a business trip so the kids and I decided last minute to head to Santa Barbara and escape the 100 degree weather and an empty house. We had a great time. My parents met us on Saturday, which made it even more special.

Despite having their own sleeper couch- we all preferred to sleep together

It was too cold for the beach so we hit our favorite S.B. park

Bike ride with Papa along the beach

And a great dinner at Piati- one of our favorites!

Oh Christmas balls!

2011-08-29T22:27:00.000-07:00

This afternoon while getting some papers out of our safe Hayden happened to see something in the very back that caught his eye. Meanwhile, I'm going through a file folder of paperwork not realizing he is digging out our old Elf on the Shelf. Last year we switched "elf companies" so I had totally forgotten about this one. Hayden says, "Look Mommy, an Elf!" I was speechless. So here is my cover-up work the kids will find in the morning...

Thanks a lot you cheeky elf! We'll see if they find you now... Muahahahaha!

Back to school!

2011-08-26T22:11:00.000-07:00

The kids are both back in school (sniff, sniff). We had a fabulous summer and I was reminded of what a great relationship Madelyn and Hayden have. Despite our fun-filled summer activities I think they were the happiest while at home playing together. Some of my favorite memories of summer will be hearing their little conversations while playing legos or school together. In fact, now that they have been in school for over a week I can tell they are missing each other. When I picked up Hayden today he said, "I wish Madelyn was always here when I was here." While in line to pick up our take-out dinner it was the first time they had really been together all day and I caught them hugging and kissing each other.

But it's back to the grind we go! With two drop-offs, two pick-ups, 10 sack lunches a week, 2 homework packets, 3hours of dance, 1 hour of karate, 1 hour of gymnastics, 1 hour of piano and hundreds of requests for play dates... is it fall break yet????

Hayden- Pre-K (rocking his new favorite motorcycle shirt, coveted Green Lantern lunchbox, new light-up shoes and his holter monitor)

Madelyn- 1st grader!

To Ki-Ai or not to Ki-Ai

2011-08-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

These pictures of Hayden doing karate were taken the day of his most recent episode. He has been taking karate for a while now and loves it. He's such a coordinated kid it seems such a shame to keep him out of all sports so we thought karate would be a good choice. Back in February we learned his heart couldn't handle the running warm-up in karate so we've been coming to class late to avoid the "drills" as Hayden calls them. But now we are faced with another hard decision. Do we cut out all active things and just try to breed him to be a nerdy video gammer? Or do we allow him to participate in activities that bring him joy and boost his confidence, yet risk another episode. Sigh.

What I owe to Walt Disney today

2011-08-11T23:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you Disney, for being the place that my son said he wanted to go as soon as he was better. In the hospital, after Hayden had been poked and prodded by dozens of nursers and doctors all with a smile on his face I told him, "Sweetie, I will take you anywhere you want to go when you are better. What would make you happy?" He replied without a hesitation, "Disneyland!"

Thank you Disney for being the first activity that has motivated me to blow-dry my hair, put on my make-up, get my kids out of their cozy jammies and leave the house since last Thursday.

Thank you for the new Little Mermaid ride, our first of the afternoon, where I got to sit in between my two babies and see joy and happiness in their faces. As we rode, side-by-side and swayed to the music we know and love I was overwhelmed with emotions and struggled to hold back tears. I couldn't believe how far we'd come in a week.

Thank you Disney, for being a place that we always seem to be able to meet up with good friends.

Thank you for finally providing my chocolate fix I have been so desperate for these past nights.

Thank you for being both a distraction from reality and a reminder of how despite tragedy reoccurring, we are a strong, loving family that can get through anything.

Thank you for providing my children with lovely thoughts and memories to have prancing in their heads tonight. I am hopeful that they will sleep peacefully, after a week of waking up in the middle of the night with nightmares.

And while I'm giving thanks, thank you to Kenny Loggins for getting me through the long drive home while the kids slept and my mind wandered to bad places. "The Horses" will get me every time!

Rehearsal with the big girls

2011-06-17T17:43:00.000-07:00

This afternoon Madelyn had a dance rehearsal with the "big girls" for their opening number in the summer recital this weekend. Madelyn loves being with the older dancers.

Madelyn and her partner Kayli

Graduation Poem

2011-06-11T21:26:00.000-07:00

The poem Madelyn recited at graduation was such an important moment in her life, it deserves it's own post!

Part of the Legacy kindergarten curriculum is having the kids memorize and recite poems throughout the year. The first poem back in September was a rough one for my cautious Madelyn. She knew the poem perfectly, but was completely overcome with fear when she had to say it in front of her peers. She stood up in front of the class and all that would come out were tears. "I just couldn't make the words come out," she told us. While she didn't say that first poem, I was so beyond proud of her just for getting out of her seat and standing in front of the class. Seriously, that's a huge step for a shy, cautious child! As the year went on she gained more confidence, thanks to her amazing teachers and the poems became easier for her. The last poem of the year the kids have to recite at graduation... on stage... with a microphone... in front of hundreds of parents all with cameras in hand. That is some extreme public speaking for a 6 year old! But today, Madelyn strut right up to that microphone and said her poem clearly, loudly, and absolutely perfectly! I had tears in my eyes, and so did her teachers who know just how far she has come this year. I am so thankful she is in such an amazing school that not only expects great things out of their students, but provides them with a loving, supportive atmosphere to accomplish those lofty goals. Madelyn has grown and matured so much this year. I can't wait to see what first grade brings!

Graduating from Kindergarten

2011-06-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

This morning my little girl graduated from kindergarten. As I watched her up on the stage with her little cap and gown I was overwhelmed with so many thoughts... I couldn't believe how big she has become! There was my preemie baby, placed on the top level of the risers because she's one of the tallest in her class, missing her two front teeth. How is this possible? I couldn't get over the fact that she was singing the SAME heart wrenching songs I taught my kindergartners while pregnant with her 7 years ago. And I couldn't stop thinking how beautiful, confident, and happy she looked.

Papa and Hayden ready for the graduation to begin

LCA kindergarten class of 2011

Coming on stage to get her diploma- check out that swagger!

Shaking hands with Mr. Jackson

Shaking hands with Mr. Borruel, she got the character trait award for "love"

Moving her tasel- and official 1st grader!!!

Madelyn with Mimi and Papa

Family photo

Daddy and his girl

Time to party! After the graduation we all headed next door to Paseo Club for a fabulous lunch and swimming.

Hayden and Madison at the party.

Me, Kelli and Tyler relaxing by the pool after and emotional day.

Legacy's End of the Year Party

2011-06-10T18:48:00.000-07:00

Today was the last day of school for Madelyn and my last party as kindergarten party mom. It was a great day and I think the kids had a blast. We have a very special class of kindergartners with amazing kids and even more awesome parents. It was fun to spend the day together celebrating the last day of school. I just can't even believe how fast this year went!

Craft... signing beach bags

Bubble show- this was awesome!

The quintessential bounce houses

Snow cones

Lunch time! My amazing husband was our pizza delivery guy and picked up 50 pizzas. We were on the cleanse too, poor guy had to smell all that cheesy goodness for 5 miles.

Madelyn and Kiana excited for summer!!!

The sun came out just in time for water-play

Animal Shelter Visit

2011-06-05T20:24:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we made a visit to the Animal Shelter to drop off the earnings from the lemonade stand. The kids had $134 to donate. The kids had fun walking around looking at all the dogs, cats and 1 fat bunny they had. The next morning Madelyn asked, "Do you think my money helped pay for their breakfast this morning?"

Hayden fell in love with this little dog named Shadow. He didn't want to leave his side.

Take it on the run baby

2011-06-04T20:16:00.000-07:00

At Legacy's gala and auction the last item to be auctioned off was 4 row tickets plus back stage passes to REO Speedwagon and Rick Springfield at the Greek. This was not something we were planning on bidding on but when no one went to bid and the auctioneer kept lowering the price Preston finally raised his paddle and SOLD it was ours. While these 80's rockers would not be on the top of my list to go see live, I was excited for a fun night out. We invited our dearest friends Jen and Jeff and had a blast! "Backstage passes" really meant access to a hospitality suite where they had drinks and food and we got to brush elbows with the band members. We weren't willing to wait hours after the show to see the big wigs so we just saw drummers and guitarists.

Me and Jen

Rick Springfield- it was fun to rock out to "Jessie's Girl" being performed live

This guy was flirting with Jen, it was hilarious

On the deck of the hospitality suite

Shower #2 for baby Oliver

2011-06-04T08:26:00.000-07:00

Today April's in-laws threw her a beautiful baby shower. After two baby showers, that little guy is totally set! Days like these make it seem even more real and get me so excited to hold him, kiss him and completely spoil him rotten as only an Auntie can.

The glowing mother-to-be

The baby's two proud Aunties

Yoga for great danes

2011-06-03T20:22:00.000-07:00

Set out my yoga mat tonight and then went to get some water. Chloe apparently liked the idea and thought she would give it a go...

Hayden's last day of school

2011-06-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe it's already summer break for Hayden, it seems like he just started Sunshine Preschool. I am so looking forward to 8 weeks with my little man before he starts pre-k 5 days a week (sniff, sniff). Hayden and I both made a lot of friends in the Lamb room, and we're looking forward to lots of fun summer play dates!

Madison, Hayden and Blaise

Hayden and his buddy Luke

We'll miss you Miss Blessy! What an amazing teacher you are!

Teacher Appreciation Week

2011-06-01T18:56:00.000-07:00

It's Teacher Appreciation Week at Legacy and it's been fun coming up with cute ways to thank Madelyn's fabulous teachers. Here's what I did today...

Lemonade Stand

2011-05-28T14:56:00.000-07:00

The kids finally got to use the lemonade stand they built today. Madelyn decided she wanted the proceeds to go to the Animal Shelter. No surprise from our animal lover! In 1 hour they earned $134! That must have been some good lemonade!

Glee performance

2011-05-27T14:52:00.000-07:00

My parents, April and I went to the Glee performance tonight at the Honda Center. It was fun but boy did I feel OLD! The music was so loud and the girls were screaming so much, you would have thought it was the Beatles or Elvis. Thank goodness we were in the suite to buffer the noise a little bit, but my ears were still ringing for a few hours after. What a fun night though, it's always fun to be the Mayfield 4 again.

WE'RE BAAACK!

2011-05-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

So with things winding down for the summer, I have the blogger bug once again. The truth is, this blog serves an amazing purpose for Madelyn and Hayden since their mom does not have the patience for scrapbooking. So I set out, once again, to document all the great times we have as a family because I'm already starting to forget the things I was certain I would always remember.

2010-12-17T13:01:00.000-08:00

Holy hectic holidays, have things been busy for the Geetings! I've been staying up way past my bed time doing holiday crafts, Christmas cards, party planning, Christmas shopping, wrapping, setting up nightly elf antics, etc. There has been NO time for blogging. So, I am just posting a ton of pictures from the last month in one blog. So here it is...

Legacy's Snow Day

decorating gift bags

Madelyn's teachers, Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. McNeil

Madelyn and Annaliese having fun in the snow

Hayden's Christmas party at school, doing their book exchange

Hayden with the beautiful Gleeson girls

Magical Journey of Hope 2010

This year Madelyn was an elf

St. Nicholas' Day

Legacy's Christmas play

Madelyn and Kiana

CLU Christmas concert

with Great Grandma Billie and Great Grandma Carol

In an attempt to make the most of the Christmas season, I am doing an activity advent calendar. For the 1st day... drink hot chocolate.

Disneyland

Madelyn and I made candy garland

Thank you Martha! Now I have a place for all our old Christmas cards.

Tangled in 3D

Family hike the day after Thanksgiving. They walked the whole way! They were so proud of themselves!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Night before Thanksgiving tradition- visiting Santa

Madelyn STILL wants nothing to do with him.

Hayden's feast at school

Joseph's super fun ice skating birthday party

Legacy's Thanksgiving Feast

LOVE being party mom! Decorating for this event was just too much fun!

Madelyn and Braden

Madelyn and Annaliese

All the K's singing for the whole school- Madelyn is of course in the back row

Napa trip 2010

2010-11-13T10:14:00.000-08:00

With our love of wine and good food, Napa is one of our most favorite places to go. And in November, you get the beautiful fall leaves and crisp weather (and no crowds!). This year we went with our good friends, the Steventons. We were able to hit up our favorite wineries and restaurants and Samira and I even got a few spa treatments. Meanwhile... back at home, the kids had a blast with Auntie and Uncle Vince who spoiled them with a trip to the Science Museum, a picnic at the park, a movie night, doughnuts, endless games of charades and pretending to be the tooth fairy.

Lunch at the French Laundry= pure bliss! We had the best view too of their private garden where ALL of the produce for the restaurant comes from.

Haha RJ, very funny! Yes, it's an indulgent lunch in many ways, but it's so worth it!

Day 2... all about the wine! First stop, Plumpjack.

At Viader, one of the most beautiful wineries in Napa!

In the caves at Schramsberg. Mmm sparkling wine, my fav!!!

2010-11-11T16:32:00.000-08:00

Madelyn's mysterious fever came back today, still with no other symptoms. She took a nap in my bed and about an hour after she fell asleep I noticed something at the top of the stairs. When I walked upstairs I found my sweet baby laying there. She kept sleeping in that exact position for over an hour!

This is what sick looks like at the Geeting house...

2010-11-08T16:13:00.000-08:00

Madelyn woke up this morning with a fever. So obviously, no school today. But 45 minutes after I gave her medicine, she was fine! So we spent the day playing at home, which almost always involves dress-up.

A flamingo princess

And what is Hayden you ask? Frosty the snowman of course! He asked me for a "corn-cob pipe." I gave him a meat thermometer, thank goodness he didn't ask WHAT a corn-cob pipe is or WHAT you do with it!

Sunset in the Vineyard

2010-11-07T16:24:00.000-08:00

Tonight we went to a great event that Assistance League puts on, Sunset in the Vineyard. It's an evening of wine tasting local wines and eating yummy food at a gorgeous house, with all proceeds going to charity. What's not to love?

Me and my mom

My parents

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

We had a great Halloween! Started off with Madelyn performing at the Sheriff's Haunted House event. The girls were in make-up and rehearsals all morning then we all headed over to watch them perform. They did a fantastic job! As soon as we got home we had to change Madelyn over from a sailor ghost to a ballerina. Then we went trick-or-treating at Granary Square, a long standing tradition with the Ottavianos. From there we went to my parent's house for chili and trick-or-treating. Our neighborhood is such a bore, thanks to the gate that we always go to my parents. My dad turns their porch into a "magic mirror" which attracts a huge crowd. This year they passed out 500 pieces of candy! It's hard to tell what the kids like more, trick-or-treating or passing out candy to all of the people at Mimi and Papa's house.

Elite Petites as sailor ghosts

Madelyn and Bella

performing...

A special Halloween tradition... trick-or-treating with the Ottavianos at Granary Square

Madelyn, passing out candy at Mimi and Papa's house

The kids with Papa who is about to go in the "magic mirror"

Trick-or-treat

Hooray! He decided to get dressed up and trick-or-treat!

One house near my parents had their yard decorated with the Nightmare Before Christmas, the kids loved it since they have been watching that movie all month!

Hayden and Ethan checking out Jack

fun filled day

2010-10-30T15:47:00.000-07:00

We had a super busy, super fun day! Started out with brunch at my parent's house for April's birthday then Madelyn had a dance rehearsal for their Halloween show, then immediately off to Legacy's Fall Festival, nap time (ahhh), then carving pumpkins. A full day with fun things! Loved it!

Madelyn in her ballet costume, ready for the fall festival

Hayden and his pirate pumpkin. We did actually carve one too, guess I didn't get a pic of that though.

Madelyn and her kitty pumpkin

Steventon Halloween party

2010-10-29T15:30:00.000-07:00

We got to bust out the old 80's costumes tonight for the Steventon's Halloween party. We had such a fabulous time, we had to force ourselves to leave at midnight knowing that our sweet babies would be up before the sun... as they always are.

Western day

2010-10-29T15:27:00.000-07:00

Legacy had Western day today, Madelyn loved it!

Too cool for costumes... apparently

2010-10-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

Today at Hayden's school they had a Halloween parade. When I went to get him dressed in his costume this morning, he wanted nothing to do with it. I was able to convince him to at least put on a few pieces of his pirate costume, but he was not happy about it. He only did it because I showed him his bag of clothes that he could change into as soon as they were done with their parade.

Boy, he was not happy to see ALL the parents had cameras

This is what I got when I asked him to smile

OK, finally. A somewhat happy pirate.

April's birthday

2010-10-23T20:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight we celebrated April's birthday. Always fun to go out on the town with the girls! We started at our house for appetizers and champagne, then took a limo to one of our new favorite restaurants in downtown, First and Hope. Thanks April, for giving us an excuse to party, what a memorable night!

Jen, Nicole, me, April, Melissa, Wendy, Bre and my mom

Another beautiful cake by Danielle

Still her favorite spot

2010-10-18T20:10:00.000-07:00

Even though she is pushing 80 lbs., her favorite spot is still on top of the couch cushion (as if she were a cat). My poor cushion! It is permantely indented. But, how cute is she???

Madelyn's Halloween Birthday Bash

2010-10-17T15:59:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated Madelyn's 6th birthday with a Halloween Bash. Just like last year, Madelyn had a lot of say with her party from the theme to the games and decorations. We had a blast working on the party together!

Candy corn estimation- Madelyn's idea and she even made little candy corn to decorate the vase with and did all the coloring.

What's a Halloween party without candy???

Madelyn colored the pumpkins, cut them out and even hung them!

Danielle's beautiful cake and super cute pumpkin cookies

The kids' table

Craft table- decorating pumpkins and Halloween coloring sheets... all Madelyn's ideas

She wore her dance costume from the summer recital and was a "pink zebra"

My mom and grandma Billie

Craft time!

Madelyn with her decorated pumpkin

Annaliese, Madelyn and Kelsie

G, Kiana, and Bella

Joseph and Carson

face painting time!

Madelyn and Kiana

Bella, Joseph and Madelyn

pinata time!

Madelyn and Auntie

A very random couple... cheerleader and Don Draper

Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you...

Witche's Brew!

Me and my dad

Madelyn and her Mimi

candy bar time

Hayden and Ronan deep in conversation

Lombardi Ranch

2010-10-16T15:04:00.000-07:00

Good times at Lombardi Ranch...

Madelyn's 6th birthday

2010-10-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Today our sweet Madelyn turns 6! We had a great day celebrating her!

Up at 6 to open presents

Excited about her first Zhu Zhu pets- actually screamed when she opened them

Daddy had flowers sent to school- just like my dad used to do

I was the "Royal Reader" at Madelyn's school, which is the way they celebrate birthdays at Legacy.

Daddy came too!

Lunch at the Tea Gardens

A very happy birthday girl

A kiss from Papa

Farewell to Mrs. Nogle

2010-10-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Nogle, Madelyn's teacher had her last day today before retiring from teaching to become a first-time mommy. We threw her a farewell party for the kids and parents to thank her for being an absolutetly amazing teacher to our children during their first weeks of kindergarten. And while we will really miss Mrs. Nogle, we are so excited to have Legacy's other veteran kindergarten teacher, Mrs. McNeil back in the classroom after having her son over the summer.

Madelyn and Mrs. Nogle

Playing pass the baby

Each parent bought their child's favorite baby book and I put them all together in baskets to give Mrs. Nogle's baby a great start on her home library.

Preston's Mad Men birthday party

2010-09-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

I wanted to throw Preston a big 30th birthday bash. Just around the time I started thinking about themes, his very gracious aunt and uncle had given me something they acquired from a charity event... a martini party at your house for 40 guests. Well, this was the perfect thing to jump start a Mad Men party. It happens to be our favorite show, not to mention that Preston's all time favorite band, the Beatles, were in the same era. The more I thought about it, the more I realized it was the perfect theme for Preston! I had so much fun planning this party, and like always there were just too many ideas and not enough time to implement them all. I only wish I had picked another weekend because so many of our dearest, closest friends had conflicts. Having said that, it was still a great night with our friends and family to help ring in Preston's thirties.

Me and the the birthday boy

A Mad Men party has to have a lot of cigarettes... so I went with candy ones

Using one of Don Draper's accounts, Utz chips, as a centerpiece

Danielle, our fabulous friend and Top Chef Just Desserts Extraordinaire made all of our 1960's desserts.

My parents did a great job of dressing up! How cute are they?

Me and Jen

The Klawers

Quiz time! How well do you know Preston???

Preston's dad, cousin Kristina, Uncle Dave and mom

Me and Sabra

Steve, Irina and Mike (CLU friends)

Chloe's surgery

2010-09-22T11:03:00.000-07:00

Our sweet Chloe spent the day recovering from being spayed. She is such a scaredy cat, which comes with the territory of this breed, that they didn't want to put her through the anxiety of wearing a cone. So instead she is wearing one of daddy's shirts to keep her from licking her incision. What a brilliant vet we have, it actually works!

Volunteering in Hayden's class

2010-09-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

This morning I got to volunteer in Hayden's preschool class. I picked a great day, it was the first day of fall (my absolute FAVORITE season). The room smelled like cinnamon, I got to cut out some adorable fall crafts for the kids to do in October, and read them a book about fall.

Headed out to the playground, Hayden and his sweet friend Madison

Riding bikes

Viva Las Vegas

2010-09-18T10:49:00.000-07:00

For Preston's birthday my gift to him was a trip to Vegas. We haven't been (together) since college and have wanted so badly to go and do it right, now that we are no longer on that tight college budget. It was a super fabulous trip. We didn't gamble once. That's right, not once. Instead, we spent our time and money eating at some of the most amazing restaurants we have ever been to, got a private cabana poolside for the day, and saw the Beatles Love show. I didn't want to schlep my huge camera around Vegas so we only got these 2 pictures as we were checking out.

Me and the birthday boy in the Wynn Lobby

Volunteering in kindergarten

2010-09-13T09:44:00.000-07:00

Today I got to volunteer in Madelyn's class. It reminded me of how much I love kindergarten!!! The kids are all so excited and eager to learn, the crafts are so much fun, and there is something really special about teaching kids to read and seeing their faces when they start to "get it."

At recess...

Legacy ice cream social

2010-09-10T09:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Legacy's ice cream social, but of course at Legacy they wouldn't just serve ice cream and call it a night. They also set-up a huge projection screen on the grass and played Princess and the Frog. It was really neat, all the families brought chairs and blankets, they served popcorn and candy and we all sat under the stars watching the movie.

Madelyn and G

Hayden ready for the movie to start

Isabella, Carson and Madelyn

Taking my kitchen island back!

2010-09-07T20:46:00.000-07:00

With both kids in school our kitchen island was getting piled up with homework, schoolwork, fundraising packets, newsletters, kid birthday invitations, school calendars, volunteer calendars, and so on and so on. I got sick of it so I came up with this new, wonderfully organized way to handle all that mess. A basket for each kid that I can throw their paperwork into. Voila! I have my island back! Oh, and the cat has a new place to call home. And I must say, she is quite the smart cat to sit in the "M" basket, seeing that her name is Moet!

Castle Golf

2010-09-03T20:40:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went to the valley to play miniature golf at "Castle Golf." This is where we used to go when I was a kid and my memory is of this magical place with beautiful lights and lots of neat waterfalls. And it is all of those things. But as an adult I also notice the 101 that's just beyond the fence and the fact that it is nothing more than a well lit miniature golf course. At any rate, the kids had a lot of fun. In fact, Madelyn announced she would like to play mini golf every Friday as a new family tradition. Glad it was a hit!

Madelyn's picture... not too bad!

Loving the uniform thing

2010-09-01T22:57:00.000-07:00

Madelyn is at a private school that has uniforms and a very strict dress code. I wasn't sure how I would like it because I have really enjoyed being her stylist these past 5 years. However, can I tell you how wonderful it is at 7 a.m. to just grab pieces from her school wardrobe out of the closet and not have to worry about picking out the perfect outfit! It's fabulous! Plus, I am loving the preppy, school-girl look on her.

These pictures are for Auntie...

Day with the Reders

2010-08-28T20:14:00.000-07:00

We spent the day with our very good friends, the Reders. We met at the LA zoo and had a great time then headed to the Grove after for dinner. It wasn't until we were in the parking lot saying goodbye that I realized we didn't get one picture the whole day.

So here it is... the pic from our fun day.

The big boy class

2010-08-27T23:04:00.000-07:00

After going to My Gym with Hayden for "mommy and me" classes since he was an infant, Hayden has finally graduated to the big boy classes... meaning without mommy! It was so strange today sitting out in the lobby watching him rather than being there on the floor singing the songs, doing the skills, and playing all the games with him. He did great! He was certainly ready for this, not sure if I am though...

Puppy antics

2010-08-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

Chloe has been a really good puppy overall. She was housebroken pretty quickly and really hasn't destroyed anything. Today though, when we came home from a play date I found a mess in the laundry room where she was supposed to be sleeping. A few years ago I couldn't figure out what to do with all of the kids' art projects, then I had the idea of putting them up in the laundry room. It was starting to look really neat with all of their work displayed. But I guess all that paper was just too tempting for Chloe.

All that is left, so sad!

Dodger game

2010-08-20T22:01:00.000-07:00

Another great night in Dodgertown!

The first day of kindergarten!!!

2010-08-18T21:42:00.000-07:00

Madelyn had a great first day! Typical Madelyn style, she was apprehensive at first and apparently didn't participate in the beginning but once she warmed up she did great. Luckily for my nerves, I have many "insiders" at the school who were able to give me text messages updating me on Madelyn. By 9:30 she had a smile on her face and was doing well! She never did cry, I was the one shedding all the tears. When the kids all lined up and the teacher walked out of the class to greet them I couldn't even control the flow of tears. All I could think was that it seems like just yesterday that I was that teacher coming out of that exact classroom greeting the kids. And now, here I am, with my own kindergartner. It was as if I had been slapped across the face with the cliche, "They grow up so fast." Luckily, behind my big sunglasses Madelyn didn't even see me cry and was unfazed by her mommy who was uncontrollably sobbing on the playground. But, enough about me... at pick-up Madelyn was exhausted so I didn't get much out of her but she said she had a great time and loved kindergarten. And then, she fell asleep for the next 2 1/2 hours!

Excited for kindergarten!

Kiana, Madelyn and Gabrielle (friends since they were babies)

Line-up bell... starting to get nervous

Some encouraging words from daddy

Ready to go in, being greeted by Mrs. Nogle

A very tired kindergartner

Chloe's spot

2010-08-17T22:04:00.000-07:00

This is Chloe's favorite spot in the house. She can be comfy on the couch, keep an eye on the front door, see if anyone is coming downstairs to play, watch me in the kitchen, and slowly sink into those ultra plush, down pillows.

Meet your teacher night at Legacy

2010-08-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Legacy's Meet Your Teacher night. It started off with a barbecue and then all the kids went into their classrooms with their families to meet their teachers and see their class. Madelyn's teacher, Mrs. Nogle had the kids go on a scavenger hunt throughout the class to find different things. It was a lot of fun and got the kids very aquainted with the room. She has some good friends in her class (phew!). There is also a little boy who was in our first mommy and me class, it was baby sign language and Madelyn was just 6 months old. AND, Madelyn is sitting next to a boy whose mom sat next to me in our prenatal class. Kinda crazy!

Madelyn and daddy in front of her classroom

A very hot and sweaty Madelyn and Kiana after playing on the playground- ready to go meet Mrs. Nogle and Mrs. Johnson

At her desk

First day of Sunshine

2010-08-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Hayden had his first day of school today! He was so excited to finally take his lunch to school like Madelyn. He was a little anxious in the car driving there, but as soon as he saw that Miss Blessy had cool toys (like a Buzz Lightyear car) he was fine. At pick-up his teachers said he had a great day and was super friendly to all the kids. Way to go buddy, I am so proud of you!

Ready for school, lunch box and share toy in hand.

I would also like to note that it was NOT my choice to button his top button, but he insisted.

Celebrating with ice cream after a great first day!

Meet your teacher night

2010-08-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Hayden had his Meet Your Teacher Night today. I was so happy to see he had Miss Blessy, who has been teaching at Sunshine for years and is truly a pro at what she does. It was fun for us to see his class tonight. He is so excited to finally be going to Sunshine!

Being silly

Kindergarten tea

2010-08-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

Madelyn and I went to a "going into kindergarten tea" this afternoon at the Ottavianos. It was a cute "Mad Hatter" theme. The girls all had a great time, and I was happy as a clam having unlimited iced tea, tea sandwiches, scones, and mommy talk!

Friday night jazz

2010-08-06T16:55:00.000-07:00

In the summertime they have live jazz music on Town Center Drive and one of our favorite restaurants just happens to have patio seating right next to the stage. I have been wanting to go all summer, we finally made it tonight! Music was great, food was great, everyone loved it except for Madelyn who had her ears covered with her hands most of the night because it was apparently too loud. So maybe next year we make this a date night instead of a family outing.

A happy Hayden rockin' out

CA Adventure

2010-08-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

My mom and I took the kids to CA Adventure for the afternoon. One thing I really wanted to do this summer was take the kids to the Rainforest Cafe at Downtown Disney. They see a commercial for it sometimes when they are watching cartoons and have been begging to go. So, tonight we went and they loved it!

Ready for Toy Story Mania

At Rain forest Cafe with my own monkeys

After dinner, back to CA Adventure for more rides and of course... cotton candy

Last day in paradise

2010-07-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

For our last day I don't think we could have crammed in one more thing! We certainly made the most of it and realized today that our only regret with this trip was not doing the 7 day!

Back at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island.

Boys having fun swimming in the crystal clear, warm, Bahamian ocean

Madelyn and I ready to fed the stingrays. After we got to swim with them for over an hour. It was so amazing, they kept swimming by us and in between our legs.

Madelyn petting a stingray

The water slides just off the beach

At our last dinner, all the waiters had a fun celebration

After dinner we hit up the arcade

Madelyn requested that we go to the "tip-top" of the ship, thus the windblown hair

For tonight's show it was just me and Hayden. Preston stayed back to pack us all up (what a guy!) and Madelyn begged to go to the kid's club. It was pretty special being there with just my little man, especially because the show was based on Peter Pan who Hayden loves! PLEASE excuse my four chins in this picture that I took myself.

While the kids got ready for bed Preston went to the late night buffet and brought back goodies for the kids. Nothing like a chimichanga right before bed huh? Good practice for college I guess.

Day at sea

2010-07-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

We had a great day at sea today! Got in the pool by 10 a.m. and had fun splashing around with the kids. After lunch we dropped the kids off at the kids' club for a while to get in a workout then headed to the adults only pool. Ahhh, reading my book poolside with a glass of champagne. Then Preston picked the kids up and took them back for naps while I got a massage. We had a great dinner at Triton's then watched the cutest show ever, Toy Story the Musical.

About to have lunch at Triton's

After a few years of living a really healthy life I have come to a conclusion, I would so much rather go for the carbs than waste calories on sweets. Game plan on the cruise- go for the bread basket and wine, skip dessert! Our waiter making fun of me for never ordering dessert...

All dressed up for our "fancy" dinner

Ready to watch Toy Story the Musical

Nassau

2010-07-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

Today our port of call was Nassau. Preston, Madelyn and I have all been there before (of course, she was only 9 months but still) it was fun being back to this beautiful island. We did a great excursion to "The Blue Lagoon" the Bahamian beach that the movie was filmed on. It was a beautiful beach and crystal clear lagoon with an added bonus of having a dolphin encounter too. The kids were too young to do it but we were able to watch, which was a lot of fun.

Sailing by our cruise ship on our way out to the Blue Lagoon

We decided to have a nice, relaxing dinner in our room tonight

Enjoying the sunset on our balcony

The show tonight was the movie the Sorcerer's Apprentice, way too mature for the kids so we decided to try out the kids' club. They loved it! Score!! So we hit one of the adult lounges.

Castaway Cay

2010-07-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

Our first port of call was Disney's own private island, Castaway Cay. Disney certainly thought of everything. A beautiful beach with endless rows of beach chairs in groups of 4 under huge umbrellas, lots of cute shops, amazing food and great tropical drinks, characters everywhere, super clean bathrooms, every water activity you could imagine, water and wet towels handed to you as you walk back to the ship. Absolute paradise!!

I was really hoping to use this for our Christmas card this year- too bad the sun sabotaged that plan and made the kids squint.

Back on the ship so Hayden could nap- Madelyn and I hit the pool and the bar for some pina coladas, yummy!

Posing in the Mickey Ears pool

Dinner at Parrot's Cove

After dinner they were playing Toy Story 3 in the movie theater. Hayden wanted to give it another try so we did and it was a good choice! The theater was packed filled with kids high on sugar and parents who had been sipping tropical drinks so the energy in the theater was fabulous! Lots of laughing and cheering, which I think really helped keep it from being scary this time.

Tonight's towel animal, a dog

Boarding the ship

2010-07-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

After a good nights sleep at Disney World, we got picked up in a bus and taken to Port Canaveral where we boarded the ship. We had a great first day of exploring! So many amazing things to do on this boat and so little time!

Not happy about taking time out of our fun to do the emergency muster. BTW, we have an identical picture of April like this on our first Disney cruise as kids.

On our balcony ready to set sail

Our first dinner at Animators Palace- where as you eat the surrounding walls become colorful and animated. It was super cool!

Checking out the huge movie screen that's over one of the pools

Finally back in our room at 11:00 after an awesome day- A silly pic with this towel lobster on our bed that our room steward made.

Disney cruise, here we come!!!

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

This morning we got up ridiculously early to catch our 7 a.m. plane to Orlando. The kids were so excited, as soon as we walked in their rooms to wake them up they were wide awake, ready to hit the road!

In the limo on our way to LAX

One excited boy, with extreme bed head!

Tea time with Madelyn

2010-07-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

I had to take my car in for it's first service today and since we were in Pasadena I couldn't pass up a trip to the Tea Rose Garden. We had the most wonderful afternoon waiting for my car. Hayden had a great day too, he got picked up from school by Uncle Vince who spoiled him with lunch, ice cream and a new dvd to watch.

Her favorite part- when I let her eat one sugar cube

Heaven on a three tiered silver plate

Sleepover

2010-07-21T08:52:00.000-07:00

Madelyn had a sleepover tonight at G's house so we had the night with just Hayden. She did great, only problem was when I came to pick her up in the morning and she wanted to stay another night.

Waiting for Sabra to come pick her up

We took Hayden to Chuck E. Cheese- pretty awesome having a 2:1 parent to child ratio

Chloe's first bath

2010-07-20T16:19:00.000-07:00

The kids and I gave Chloe a bath today. I was just going to do it in the backyard but Madelyn had the great idea of doing it in Hayden's bathtub, which worked out perfectly!

BTW- Doing this post just two weeks later I can't believe how much bigger Chloe is today than she was then! She is growing at light-speed!

Hollywood Bowl... again

2010-07-16T14:21:00.000-07:00

Tonight we went to a real Hollywood Bowl event- "Bugs at the Symphony." It was the perfect first official show to have the kids go to, they got to watch Bugs Bunny cartoons on the big screen while the LA philharmonic played the accompanying music and sound effects. Hayden actually thought he was at a movie instead of a symphony performance. And of course, it wouldn't be the Hollywood Bowl without amazing fireworks after! What a quintessential southern California summer night!

Disneyland with the Zamboles

2010-07-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

My cousin and her kids were out visiting from Chicago this week. We had so much fun with them, swimming and playing and of course it wouldn't be a trip with the Zamboles without a trip to Disneyland. I wasn't sure how Madelyn would be, going with her bigger cousins to Disney since she has recently started to be affraid of the big rides that she once loved. Well, all we needed apparently was Isabella to motivate Madelyn a little. She did every ride! And even tried Indiana Jones!

Madelyn on Indiana Jones for the first time... the eyes say it all, and the death grip she has on the handle.

Hollywood Bowl Summersounds

2010-07-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

The Hollywood Bowl puts on an awesome kids' cultural program every summer. My sister and I did it when we were kids, and Madelyn and I have done it the last few years. This year I finally thought Hayden was old enough to sit through the show and really enjoy it. It was another great performance and fun craft. Considering Madelyn just arrived back home from China last night, she did surprisingly well! China pics coming soon!

Madelyn, Hayden and Gabrielle working on their "jungle sticks"

Madelyn and Joseph

Swimming with great grandma Billie

2010-07-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

I forgot to post this a few weeks ago...

My Grandma moved back to California after living in Colorado for the past several years. We are all so excited to have her close by again! She lives just minutes from us now, which is such a blessing. Today the kids and I went to her house to swim. Of course, they loved the pool but what they really love is her house. It is filled with fun little nick-nacks and silly little things for them to look at and play with. Neither kid wanted to leave her house. Madelyn asked when she could spend the night and Hayden later said he wished he lived at her house! So sweet!

After swimming, cuddling up with Great Grandma Billie's big stuffed tiger

Coconuts and Great Danes

2010-07-10T22:04:00.000-07:00

So I won't go into the whole, very gross story about the aftermath of giving Chloe a coconut to play with (not my idea, a friend recommended it). I'll keep this blog classy. Let's just say, coconuts and a Great Dane's intestinal track are NOT good friends! It's a darn shame too, she sure had fun, that is until 2:00 a.m. hit.

Dodger game

2010-07-09T21:53:00.000-07:00

When Hayden heard that Madelyn was going to China with Daddy he got a little jealous. But all I had to tell him was, "I will take you to a Dodger game while they're gone" and he was fine. This year we upgraded to 4 seats so we were able to bring Auntie and Uncle Vince too! It was a super exciting game with lots of runs. Hayden lasted until we sang, "Take me out to the ballgame" during the 7th inning stretch and he put his sleepy head on my shoulder.

This is what he was most excited for... the cotton candy!

Saying goodbye to my world travelers

2010-07-06T20:50:00.000-07:00

Tonight Preston and Madelyn (and a piece of my own heart) left for Macau. The good news is they will only be gone for 5 days. Yes, Preston is insane and thinks China (like Vegas) can be done over a long weekend. The report after their trip- after boarding the plane a little after 1 a.m. Madelyn ended up staying awake until 4 a.m. our time and finally went to sleep for several hours. She was a champ running through Taipei's airport to make their connecting flight to Hong Kong and after a 16 hour travel day didn't complain once and still had a smile on her face! That's my girl! Well, let's be honest... I am not that easygoing. That's Preston's girl! Exactly why I knew she could handle this trip. Let's all cross our fingers that Preston took lots of pictures that I can post when they get back!

At 9:30 p.m. I said good bye to them as they headed for LAX

Fourth of July

2010-07-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

We had a great Fourth of July. It occurred to us a few months ago that we haven't been in town on the Fourth since Madelyn was a little baby. And while we have had some super fun trips in the past, it sounded really good to stay home this year and celebrate Valencia style. We all woke up early to do the Independence Day 5k. I unfortunately was still recovering from food poisoning so I had to sit this one out, but Preston did it and the kids had fun being his cheerleaders in the stroller. After the race we watched the parade. Pretty hokey for sure, but the kids loved it. When came home and had a fabulous barbecue with my parents then everyone took naps. In the evening we went to the Steventon's for a fun swim, barbecue, fireworks party. The kids had a blast, Madelyn was in the pool from the minute we got there until 9:30 when the fireworks started. It was a great party, fabulous food, great view of the fireworks from their backyard, s'mores at the fire pit, and good friends!

Lessons with sea shells and sand

2010-06-30T23:14:00.000-07:00

So I am trying to do fun, educational games with Madelyn this summer during Hayden's nap time. Being a retired Kindergarten teacher this is the kind of stuff I LOVE to do, and I know so much about. The fun challenge at this age is to teach concepts through playful, fun activities. Today, we sorted sea shells then wrote sight words with our fingers in the bowl of sand.

Magic Mountain

2010-06-28T23:07:00.000-07:00

The kids, Kristina and I hit Magic Mountain today. It was a great day to go because the real summer heat hasn't hit just yet. Nothing is worse than Magic Mountain when it's 100.

Bryan's wedding

2010-06-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend Preston and I headed up north to San Luis Obispo for Bryan's wedding. It was great to see old college friends and so nice to get away for the weekend with Preston!

Me and Amanda

The guys with the beautiful bride

CLU buddies- all 8 together for the first time since college

James and Amanda

Bryan (the groom) Amanda, Preston and me at the "after party"

Organic Kitchen cooking class

2010-06-22T18:54:00.000-07:00

One of the things I really wanted to do this year was take a cooking class. My trainer told me about a great one called the Organic Kitchen and I have been on her website trying to book a class for a few months. Finally, I got lucky one day and was able to get three spots in her "Let's take dinner outside" class. My, April and I went tonight and it was so much fun! A group of 8 women cooking together in a beautiful home in Bridgeport. The menu was fabulous, a berry salad with candied pecans, a corn and pepper salad, spinach pasta, barbecued tri-tip with carmalized onions and lemon cookies with strawberries and cream. We even learned some knife skills and how to "flip" things in a saute pan. It was such an awesome cooking class, I can't wait to go again soon!

Lemon cookies with mascarpone, fresh strawberries, lemon zest and powdered sugar

Swim play date

2010-06-22T18:50:00.000-07:00

We stayed after swim lessons today and swam in the Steventon's pool. Leila came over too, which was fun for Madelyn.

Joseph, Leila and Madelyn

Finally... Toy Story 3

2010-06-21T16:25:00.000-07:00

Hayden has been asking for months, "Is it June?" It's not the beginning of summer, or Father's Day that he has been anticipating but the release of Toy Story 3. Our family loves the other Toy Story movies, we watch them all the time. Hayden has the most ridiculous collection of Toy Story things since it's all he ever wants. So this afternoon, with the kids, daddy, Mimi, Nicole and Isabella we finally saw Toy Story 3... in 3-D!

One super excited little boy

Nicole and Isabella

Madelyn and Mimi ready with their 3-D glasses

And the consensus from Hayden: "It was super scary!" And, it was. Of course, seeing it in 3-D didn't help the situation with scenes like the "death by monkeys" or the part where all the toys are being pushed down into a fiery incinerator and are about to die. But, I have to say I was disappointed that this one wasn't as sweet and light-hearted as the other two. In fact, Hayden had nightmares that had him waking up crying for two nights and he NEVER makes a peep in his sleep all night. Pretty sure Santa won't be bringing the Geetings the DVD this year so we can watch it over and over like the others. Too bad.

Father's day

2010-06-20T16:18:00.000-07:00

After letting Preston sleep in (always on our wish lists for holidays) we went to my parents' house for brunch to celebrate my dad and Preston. Later we headed to Preston's parents' house for a birthday/ Father's day dinner for Dan.

Preston and Hayden, Madelyn with Grandpa Dan

Celebrating Easton, Mason and the Blooms

2010-06-19T20:39:00.000-07:00

What a fun filled day... we had 3 parties! That meant we had to do a little divide and conquer- Madelyn and I went to Easton's party while Preston and Hayden drove down to Mason's. I had the camera, so no pics from Mason's party but I heard Hayden had a blast and that he and Mason were attached at the hip the whole time... so cute! Easton's party was awesome! Madelyn and G spent most of the party showing off their new swimming skills while I got to chat with the other moms poolside. Can't beat that! In the evening Preston and I headed down to Orange County (Preston's second time today) for a farewell party for the Bloom's who are headed to Australia. It was a great party!

Madelyn got out of the pool just long enough to eat lunch and make a quick craft

And back in the pool

All cleaned up from our kid birthday parties and on our way to the farewell party

2010-06-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

The kids and I spent the afternoon swimming at Bridgeport. We still have a key from when we lived there. Shhh! Don't tell! It's the best pool for Hayden with it's beach entry kid pool. He can splash and play all while Madelyn swims her heart out. Doesn't hurt that it looks and feels like you're at a resort either.

Fun discovery

2010-06-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

The kids and my mom found this on our Juliet balcony this afternoon. We have had a nest there for over a year, but today a dove appeared and she is sitting on an egg. So cool!

Swim lessons with coach Karen

2010-06-14T20:35:00.000-07:00

This will be our third summer doing swim lessons with coach Karen, who I like to consider the "swim whisperer." She is incredibly skilled at getting even the youngest kids swimming full lengths of the pool, all while repeating her motto, "I did it!" To me, she is the perfect kind of teacher... very loving and encouraging but no non-sense.... you DO what coach Karen says! Madelyn has already been doing really well with her swimming this year, but it's still so important to me for her to be a strong swimmer living in pool country here. She is so excited to learn some new strokes too! Can't wait to see what she's doing after the two weeks!

Madelyn and Gabrielle "resting quietly" while the boys take their turn

Freestyle arms to Karen

And a little swim pose...

Countdown to China

2010-06-13T18:23:00.000-07:00

Preston's brother Loren moved to Macau a few years ago to work at the Venetian hotel. Back in December our newest Geeting family member was born there! Loren and Catarina asked Preston to be baby Skye's Godfather and come to his baptism in July. Originally it was just going to be Preston making the big trip, but as he was booking his tickets Madelyn asked what he was doing and then said, "I want to go to China and see my cousins too!" Preston and I looked at each other and both said why not? We know she can handle the 15 hour plane ride, she is a great traveler, she will eat any kid of food, and doesn't require as much "stuff" as Hayden to travel. So, Madelyn and Preston are heading to China in July. She is so beyond excited and has been asking me everyday how much longer until China. Today it occured to me to make a countdown to China.... 22 days to go!

Thanksgiving in June

2010-06-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

So I had this idea of doing a "Thanksgiving in June" dinner party. The thing is, I love Thanksgiving. It's one of my favorite holidays. I love cooking that huge turkey and smelling it throughout the house all day. I love sitting down with our family to this amazing feast. Only one thing is missing... our dear friends! Of course they are always welcome, but obviously spend it with their own families. So I figured if I threw a Thanksgiving in June party I could not only get to eat all the yummy food twice in one year, but also get to share it with our friends! So Voila! Thanksgiving in June! I had so much fun, I think it will be a new tradition! (We missed you Ottavianos, catch ya next year!)

RJ and Sophia hanging out before dinner

Kids' table

Me, Nichole, Samira and Jill

Kelsie's birthday sleepover

2010-06-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

For Kelsie's birthday our gift to her was a sleepover at our house. So, the kids and I got in the car this morning and drove down to Orange County to pick her up. We met for a quick lunch then back in the car and came home. The girls were so cute- they kept anticipating every part of the sleepover. As soon as we got home they wanted to get in their jammies and start a movie night. I was able to convince them to wait until after dinner for all that. They decided to sleep in sleeping bags in the bonus room and from downstairs I heard one of them say during the movie, "I think we should go to bed now." So Madelyn turned off the T.V. and the lights and that was it! They were asleep! The next morning they came in our room at 6 a.m. all dressed, teeth brushed, asking for breakfast.

Some new furniture arrived for our music room tonight- so Preston turned the boxes into houses for the girls. They had so much fun decorating their houses!

Ready for a movie and popcorn

First day of summer vacay

2010-06-07T14:13:00.000-07:00

With preschool and the summer dance recital behind us, summer vacation has officially started! We spent the day in the backyard doing water play. I don't know who had more fun, the kids or Chloe.

The kids with their mango popsicles

Everyone tuckered out from playing in the sun- time to relax and watch a movie

Summer Dance Festival

2010-06-05T22:19:00.000-07:00

Madelyn's dance studio had their summer dance festival this weekend. It was a super fun, super long weekend for everyone! Preston was at a bachelor party in Vegas until Sunday afternoon (just in time for her last performance). So Hayden spent most of the weekend with Mimi and Papa so that I could be at all of Madelyn's shows. This was one of those weekends that whenever I would think about it I would get tired. Madelyn had dress rehearsals Friday evening then 2 shows on Saturday followed by 2 on Sunday. And let me tell you, she rocked this weekend! WOW! On stage she did awesome!. Backstage she totally impressed me doing her costume changes all by herself and in between performances I was so proud of her for never complaining of being tired, even though I know she really was exhausted! The show was fabulous- the best one I have seen Elite do yet and I was so proud that Madelyn was part of such an entertaining and professional show!

The "Petites" waiting for their turn to rehearse the opening number

Performance team getting a pep talk from Jacqueline before the first show

Summer Dance Festival 2010... here we come!

Great Grandma Billie and Auntie came to Saturday's evening show

Flowers for a job done well on Saturday!

Me and my flapper backstage

Mimi, Papa, Grandpa, Daddy and Hayden came out for the last show

Hayden was feeling very cheeky and this is the only picture I could get of him

Madelyn's preschool graduation

2010-06-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight my little girl graduated from preschool. When I think back to her first day of Sunshine two years ago, I can't believe how much she has grown! It has been such a joy to watch her make new friends, create loving relationships with her teachers, learn to write her name, learn all the states on the map, learn to read and most importantly... learn and embody character traits that have molded her into an amazing young girl . Madelyn, we are so proud of you! Kindergarten, here we come!

Madelyn's signature wink

Madelyn is in the back row- being the tallest girl in the school!

Snubbing daddy for a high five

Little brothers, a few more years and they will be graduating... crazy!

Madelyn with Mimi and Papa

Madelyn and Donovan (who apparently has a crush on Madelyn)

Madelyn and Miss Shannon

Madelyn and Joseph

Tap dress rehearsal

2010-06-03T13:53:00.000-07:00

Madelyn had a dress rehearsal tonight for her tap number in the upcoming summer dance festival. They are dancing to "Good Golly Miss Molly." It's a tricky number too. Pretty sure she has already surpassed my tapping abilities, and I did tap until I was like 9!

This is their pose every time the song says, "Good Golly Miss Molly"

All the girls with Miss Amber

End of the year party

2010-06-02T13:37:00.000-07:00

Sunshine had their end of the school year party today. Being the president of the parent association I got to plan it, which was a lot of fun! Instead of doing the same old bounce house/ water play stand-by I decided to have Mad Science come and put on a science show. The theme was "Fire and Ice" and the kids loved it! The scientist was hysterical too, so the parents were also entertained. After the show we had a barbecue. It was a fun afternoon!

Dry ice- super impressive to preschoolers!

Isabella, Madelyn and Annaliese

2010-06-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

I found this today while playing out back with the kids. At first I thought it was a bird's nest. Cute, right? As I got closer I realized it was a swarm of bees! Just what I wanted to see after spending $1,000 to get rid of a hive that had been formed a few feet away from this.

Girls' night out

2010-05-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

Tonight my mom, April and I went out for a girls' night. I always love when we have the chance to do that! They are two of my best friends and we always have a blast together! So, anyone looking for a great night out in L.A., here it is... dinner at Church and State, an amazing French restaurant that is a great contradiction. A relaxed atmosphere and fairly inexpensive yet some of the best French food I have ever had (and I have eaten many meals in France). From there we headed to First and Hope a new and upcoming bar that is my new favorite place to be! I don't know what I like more... the incredible decor and soft lighting, the smell of the fresh flowers, the way the staff are dressed as if you are at a glamours party in the 1940's, or the fact that ALL of their cocktails are mixed with champagne. Talk about an amazing girls' night out!

Dinner at Church and State, seriously the best mussels I have ever had! Yummy!

Cocktails at First and Hope

Rehearsal with the big girls

2010-05-28T20:10:00.000-07:00

Madelyn had a rehearsal tonight for her upcoming summer dance recital. The performance team is doing the opening number for the show and the petites have some partner work with the older girls, which has been so much fun! Madelyn is in love with her partner, Kelly. The rehearsal went very smoothly, looking forward to an awesome show next weekend!

How cute is this? All the petites watching the older girls rehearse...

Madelyn's the one looking like Sheila from "Chorus Line" wearing just the leotard and tights

Madelyn and Kelly

Nice toe-touch Madelyn, just need to work on pointing those toes.

Bridal shower for Miss Casey

2010-05-28T14:57:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we met Madelyn's class at the park (supposed to be the pool but it was too cold and windy) for a bridal shower for Miss Casey, the assistant teacher.

Madelyn handing Miss Casey her present from the class- a gift card to Pottery Barn

So, this is a picture of Madelyn playing soccer with all the boys in the class (and some of their siblings). The class this year was so heavily stacked with boys- but she didn't seem to mind one bit.

Kindergarten playdate

2010-05-26T14:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight a bunch of incoming Legacy kindergarteners and their families met at the park for dinner, dessert and to play. It was so great for all the kids to play and get to know each other. Thanks for organizing it Kelli! Looking forward to some more K play dates over the summer!

Madelyn is very excited that Isabella (and her brother Carson) will be with her at Legacy

Hayden was in heaven! There were the most amazing desserts for the kids to choose from.