McKiernan-Party of 5

MIA

2011-09-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

Haven't been on in a while....we're all still here and doing well!

Riley started 1st grade & Trevor started Kindergarten this year...can NOT believe it still. They are loving it and doing so well. They meet under a big tree at school at lunchtime and then play together during that recess, so sweet!!

Ireland started preschool this year and is absolutely loving that, she would go all 5 days if she could. She loves showing us her art and what she did that day :)

I am now 6 months pregnant with this little bebe! Its seems to be flying by and the end of Decemeber will be here before we know it and I cant wait to find out whether its a little girl or little boy. Dreaming about holding him or her for the first time. awwww! Having a hard time with this one figuring out names...I think because its our last one I just want the perfect name for us and its seeming to be very difficult!

Zach is still working his butt off at the office, putting in a lot of hours and is hoping to finish all his real estate classes online and take his test by the 1st of the year! Woohoo! I know he can do it.

Well thats about it! I am so excited for Fall to be here, tomorrow actually, and for the cooler weather, pumpkins, Halloween, pumpkin recipes, sweatshirts, and fires!

Expecting!

2011-05-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

Baby #4 is on the way!! We are so thrilled to be adding another(and most likely the last) sibling to our bunch! The kids are way excited and we cant wait to meet he or she. Due January 5th but theyll probably do the c-section between Christmas and New Years!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2011-03-17T12:36:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of my 3 Lil McKiernan leprechauns! They are the cutest and they are my pot of gold!!! Happy St. Patricks Day!

RIP Grandma!

2011-03-15T18:09:00.001-07:00

Zach's grandma Shirley passed away yesterday. It was so hard but we knew it was coming in the next few days. She had a couple illnesses affecting her already and then she suffered a stroke and was taken to the hospital. We went everyday and visited her. The kids each made her a card and gave it to her 2 days before she passed. I was one of the last people in the hospital, along with Bob & Linda. We went on Sunday evening to see her. She was pretty unconscious and her breathing was very labored and was about 6 secs in between each breath. I brought her fresh flowers and the 3 of us sat with her for a few hours. I made sure when we left that I rubbed her arm and leg and told her "Love you Grandma, sleep good." We got the dreaded call the next morning that she had passed around 7am. Zach and I went to the hospital that morning and said our goodbyes. That was the toughest part. She looked much more at peace though. Her services are this Saturday and she will be cremated and buried next to her husband Art. Shirley was so sweet and loved our 3 kiddos. We loved having her over to our house at Halloween and 4th of July and we always saw her on Xmas Eve too. We love you Grandma and are so glad that you are in a better place, in no pain and with your hubby!!

Yankee's #5!

2011-03-06T09:34:00.001-08:00

My lil T-ball player!! We signed Trevor up for tball and he started this last week! He absolutely loves it and is so cute out there in his uniform. He's the shortest one on the team but looks like such a big boy to me!
Trevor & Grandpa!

Prayers Needed...

2011-02-23T15:28:00.000-08:00

This family has lost their bautiful little girl and prayers are definitely needed. I cant imagine even close to what there going through. It makes me want to just sit and cuddle with all my babies forever!

http://kandjstaats.blogspot.com

February Bdays!

2011-02-23T15:23:00.000-08:00

February 1st was my mother in law Linda's birthday! We went out to eat at Cattlemans because she, like me, loves her steak & potatoes! We had a really nice dinner and the kids each made her cards and we got her a Border's gift card because her favorite pastime is reading!

And today is my father in law Bob's birthday. We are headed out to Island's this evening for burgers, fries & shakes, his fav! We got him a mixed cd with some of his fav. music on it to enjoy and the kids of course made him some bday cards!

Happy Birthday to 2 of our most favorite people!!!

Last Day of School For A Week...

2011-02-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

GOOD:
dont HAVE to get up early and drive Riley to school
Dont have to interrupt the other 2 kiddos naps to go pick her up from school
NO packing lunches
NO picking out outfits the night before
get to spend all day with my 3 loves

BAD:
all 3 kids in the house all day...most likely fighting all day about everything!

Thats the only BAD thing but its a big one! We'll see how it goes! Any plans for your 3 day weekend?

200th Post & Valentines Day!!

2011-02-15T09:14:00.000-08:00

Wow, I cant believe I've made it to my 200th post. Its taken a while but here I am! I love doing this blog so friends & family near and far can see what us McKiernan's are up to :) Hope you are still enjoying reading it as much as I enjoy writing it!

Yesterday was Valentine's Day Zach surprised me on Friday and we went to dinner at Pizzeria Classico and then to Tommy T's Comedy Club. I've never seen a comedian before and it was sooo much fun! I definitely want to go back and its cheaper than a movie ticket...sounds good to me!! Saturday the kids and I made a Vday cake with pink strawberry icing! Then on Sunday Zach and I had a gift card to Lucille's BBQ in Rocklin and so my mom watched the kids and we went. It was delish as always and we shared a piece of red velvet cake with cheesecake icing...so good! We exchanged cards for each other and sat and ate slowly, which is rare since were always rushing when we have the kids! So all in all we had a very nice weekend. This was our 8th Valentine's day together and each year it gets better and better.

Hope you all had a very happy heart day!

My Poor boy!

2011-02-08T12:32:00.000-08:00

We've found out recently that Trevor has cold or allergy induced asthma! That means anytime he even gets the slightest cold or allergy starts bugging him his asthma kicks in! He coughs so hard sometimes he throws up and just cries because his poor throat is just raw. The last 2 colds have caused him to get pneumonia! Well it started again on Fri. He got a fever and really green runny nose. This continued over the weekend and his coughing got horrible and so deep. You just cringe when he coughs because you can imagine how bad it hurts him. I took him to the Dr. last night and turns out he has pneumonia, a double ear infection and his oxygen levels were around 88-92 when they should be at 99. She was very concerned and gave him a dose of a steroid Prednisone immediately and gave me another to give him this morning, along with an antibiotic plus his 2 normal breathing treatments we do here at home. She made another appt. for today so we will see the Dr at 3:30 and they want to check on everything again. Along with that since it gets so bad and continues to happen, they are sending us to an Allergy & Pulmonary Specialist next week. My poor boy is such a trooper, she even said she never would have thought he was that sick with how he was acting and smiling. I guess he has a high pain tolerance like his mommy :)

Think good thoughts for him please, hoping the testing they have to do isn't too bad for him at the specialist!! Also hoping his oxygen levels have gone up since last night.

2 Days...

2010-12-23T15:20:00.000-08:00

and counting....

It's Christmas Eve Eve! The kids can hardly wait. The tree is up and decorated (has been since the day after Thanksgiving!) presents are wrapped and under the tree...all except Santa's gifts ;)

We have a busy weekend planned. Tomorrow morning at 9:30 we get to my Dad's house in Placerville and open gifts with him and my sis Mikayla. Then after we visit for a bit come back home and put the kids down for a nap before we head to my Uncle Gary's house to exchange gifts for xmas and my twin cousins 18th bday is xmas eve as well!! Then over to Linda's house to have xmas eve with her side of the family including a big fancy dinner and exchange gifts. Then of course Christmas morning the 5 of us will wake up at our home and open presents! Cants wait to see their lil faces! My mom, Jack, Lexi, Tyler & Tiffany will come by at 10:00 to open gifts and I'm making a big breakfast...2 hash brown bakes and bacon! Then Zach's mom and dad, Josh and Des will come by and were just gonna lounge all day before a non-traditional dinner of lasagna, salad and garlic bread, yum! And its not over yet...Zach's sister Jess gets in late Sun. so Monday morning early we will head over to the in-laws house and have a McKiernan xmas there...whew!! I'm tired just thinking about it but soooo looking forward to it as well!

Merry Christmas to all!!!

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town....

2010-12-16T09:51:00.000-08:00

Last week we went to the Orangevale Christmas tree lighting where Trevor's preschool class got on stage and sang a few Xmas songs! Trevor did so good! Here's Daddy getting him a cookie and telling him how proud he was!

We also go to see Santa! Riley & Trevor went up with no problem, of course Riley was still shy, but Ireland wanted nothing to do with the big guy in a red suit at all!!!

Gramma & Papa also took the kiddis to the Folsom Zoo where they have the whole zoo lit up in xmas lights. The kids loved that!

Here's Papa frosting cookies with his 3 grandbabies! So much fun!

We are ready for Christmas!!! I cant believe it, I don't think I've ever been done shopping this early before! It feels so good. Presents are all wrapped and under the tree, ,except of course for Santa's gifts ;)

Thankful catch up!

2010-11-29T21:43:00.000-08:00

I am SO behind on my thankful days!!! Im just going to throw it all in one since tomorrow is already November 30th! My oh my where did this month go? I LOVE Christmas, its my absolute favorite holiday and time of year but I am not ready for it! I see people posting things like their all done shopping and all their presents are wrapped and under the tree...WHAT?! That's crazy! Guess I better get my butt in gear!

I am so thankful to have had my family come over for Thanksgiving dinner, my 1st one I ever hosted might I add :)
Also, for the yummy food, good company, holiday parties to come, xmas lights and decor. Love seeing my kids' eyes light up with it all! Dove Court, hot cocoa, Christmas movies and music, snow that we fortunately live close enough to go play in! Im thankful for it all!!! Lovin life these days!

Thankful #6,7 and 8!

2010-11-08T14:16:00.001-08:00

Didn't do much blogging over the weekend..or any at all for that matter :)

Thankful #6- I am thankful for the weekends! Its a time I look forward to most every week because we get to spend 2 full days together as a family and do some fun things or just hang out and have a lazy Pajama day!

Thankful #7- I am thankful for my pets. Yes, they can be a pian sometimes but we really do love them and they love us. I think it's great for kids to grow up with a pet or pets. We have had our 2 dogs Abby & Joey since before we were married and recently just got 2 kittens Paisley & Piper!

Thankful #8- Thankful for Fall and Winter weather! It's my favorite time of year and I always look forward to it. The rain, snow and dark grey skies! I love to have a fire, hot cocoa or coffee and cuddled up on the couch!

Thankful #5

2010-11-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

It seems so minuet but today I am thankful for Coffee! Its my own special thing I get every morning and I love it. Helps me get ready for my day ahead and makes me all warm inside.

Thankful #4

2010-11-05T09:45:00.001-07:00

Oops....I missed a day but I'm making up for it!!

I am thankful for my wonderful husband! He still gives me butterflies and makes me smile. I love him for being so sweet and compassionate and doing all he can for me and our babies! Very thankful for getting to spend every day with him.

Thankful #3

2010-11-03T10:05:00.001-07:00

I am thankful to be able to vote! I went out and did my part in this election and am happy with they way California's results came in. It's crazy to me that in some countries you can't vote and have your own opinion. Thankful to be in this country and to be able to vote and have my "voice" heard!

Thankful #2

2010-11-02T17:31:00.000-07:00

Today I am thankful for my friends. I have had mostly the same best friends since elementary and junior high. I love them and feel like we will be forever friends!

Thankful

2010-11-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

Its November! Already? Really?

It's the month of Thanksgiving so I am going to try and blog everyday with something that I am thankful for...

Here goes: Today I am thankful for my family. I love them oh so much! They are my life. Always there for me and have smiles on their faces. I love watching my family play and interact with each other and grow.

Vote for Ireland!!!!

2010-10-06T15:48:00.000-07:00

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/photo.php?pid=558034&id=122767301067650

Please Vote for Ireland Kate!! Go to this link and LIKE Tiffany Grace's Photography page and then COMMENT under Ireland's picture! The pic with the most vote wins a free photo session!!!

Monday again...

2010-09-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

Still getting used to this new school schedule. Its very strange having to HAVE to be somewhere now. Before it was our choice to have the kids in preschool and now its required. I love it, dont get me wrong and so does Riley. She is truly enjoying every moment in Kindergarten but its just weird to have to have her there every day for school. We do a lot of stuff the night before so that the morning runs a lot smoother. I make her lunch the night before so its ready to grab and put in her backpack. Also, we pick out her outfit and get it all ready so when she wakes up we just have breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, do hair and go! I volunteer in Riley's class every other Tuesday and Linda does the other Tuesdays. I know Riley really enjoys that :) I just got fingerprinted as well so I can drive and go on all the field trips.

Trevor is ready to skip this year of preschool and be in Kindergarten! He is wanting to be where his big sis is I think. Soon enough though....

Awesome site!

2010-09-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

You must check out this site for some beautiful jewelry. Its all homemade and you will love every single piece!

www.thevintagepearl.com

and their having a giveaway today so you can follow them and enter to win!

Happy 30th Birthday Zach!

2010-09-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, on my bday, I threw Zach a surprise birthday party! It turned out great! He had no idea and we had about 40 people there! I served spaghetti and garlic bread and ceasar salad...his favorite! We also made a CD of pics. of Zach with music, that played on the tv the whole time for people to watch!

Leah, Bob, Linda, Mary and Aunty Janice

I surprised Trevor with his very own Spiderman cake too!

"Surprise!!"

waiting in anticipation....

Happy 30th birthday today Zach! Can't believe you're in your 30's now and we met when you were 21! Love you so much!

7 Years!!!

2010-08-30T11:36:00.002-07:00

Today, 8-30-10 is our 7 Year Wedding Anniversary! I cant believe its been 7 years already! We have done a lot and accomplished a lot and Im very proud of who we are as individuals, as a couple and as parents! Thank you Zach for choosing me to be your wife. I love each and every day we get to spend together and I cant wait for many more years of pure bliss! I love you with all my heart. Thanks for giving me the 3 most perfect children and working so hard for our family. You are the best!

LOVE YOU BABE!

Im still here...

2010-08-30T11:36:00.001-07:00

just been very busy and lost my umph to blog...but Im going to try and get back at it!

Tahoe

2010-07-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

Here's all the McKiernan girls!

We just got back from Tahoe for a week to celebrate Josh's college graduation & Ireland's 2nd birthday!

Went on some hikes, ate a lot of great food and had so much fun!

Happy 2nd Birthday Ireland!

played at the beach a lot

we rented a pontoon boat and spent a few hours on Lake Tahoe!

Congrats Josh on completing college! We are all so proud of you and all your accomplishments
and wish you nothing but the best on your new adventure!

Look Who's 2!

2010-07-07T16:26:00.000-07:00

Ireland Kate is 2 !!!

Our little baby girl turned 2 on June 30th! We spent the day in Tahoe playing on the beach. She loved putting her toes in the water (even though it was freezing!) She played in the sand, threw the frisbee and relaxed on the blanket. Ireland Kate, Mommy & Daddy and Riley & Trevor love you so very much. Thanks for being such a sweetheart.

36 Years!

2010-06-15T22:10:00.000-07:00

Today is my mother and father in laws 36th wedding anniversary! You two are so adorable and were definitely meant for eachother! Here's to many more incredible years to come. Thank you for being an inspiration to Zach and I! We love you!!!

Rivercats Game!

2010-06-14T14:06:00.001-07:00

My mother in law was kind enought o offer us 4 free Rivercats baseball tickets, a free parking pass and $5 in food coupons. We of course took her up on the offer and had a blast! The weather was perfect and the kids loved it. And best of all, we WON! We will definitely have to attend some more games in the future!

1st Camping Trip of the Summer!

2010-06-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

we went on our 1st camping trip of the year to Rollins Lake. Its fun because is only about 45mins from our house so you can pretty much pack up and go at the drop of a hat. Our neighbors, ,Greg and Julie invited us to go with them and we had a blast. The kids played baseball, went to the beach, made smores and just relaxed. Looking forward to other planned camping trips this summer in July and September!

Riley and Daddy playin ball!

Trevor and Bubbles, such a cute dog

hanging out at the lake!

Spring is Here...

2010-05-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

and these brand new baby birds prove it! They just hatched inside a little lantern that hangs from our outside porch. So cute!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T22:17:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Mother's Day and feel as blessed as I do. Being a mommy is the best feeling and the most important job you will ever do. I am so glad I get to do it every single day. Thank you Zach for giving me these 3 beautiful children. They light up my life beyond belief and I am forever grateful to you for choosing me to be their mommy! I love you Riley Ann, Trevor Nicholas & Ireland Kate!!!

She's 5!!!!!

2010-05-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

My baby girl turned 5 years old today! Riley Ann made me a mommy on this day 5 years ago at 6:19am. We couldn't be more blessed with such a sweet, caring, wonderful little lady! She loves being a big sister, helping mommy and daddy cook and work around the house, water the flowers and take care of the dogs. She is such a joy to be around and I just can't believe she will be starting Kindergarten in August. Thank you Riley for coming into our lives. We love you oh so much!!!

Weekend HIghlights!

2010-04-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

Friday Night- Got stuff ready for a quick planned garage sale for Sat. morning.
Cuddled with my husband on the couch and watched 48 Hours..one of our favs!

Saturday- Up early at 6am for garage sale. Didnt make much, $150, but more than we had when we started and cleared out the house/garage some. A friend brought donuts and sat with us the whole time..how nice.
That evening...kids stayed with Gramma & Papa and we had friends over and played, visited, had some drinks...had FUN!

Sunday- picked up the kiddos, saw Nicole's new kitchen, visited with Mema & Papa's while the kids rode their jeeps. Made dinner, watched cartoons, kids to bed and had more cuddle time watching Amazing Race!

All in all it was a good, productive weekend! Now this week I have to get all the last minute stuff for Riley's bday party this coming Saturday!

2010-04-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Camera/USB cord,

Please come out, come out wherever you are! I miss you and would really like to upload the pictures that are on my camera. Did the kids hide you? Or was it Zach? Whoever it was I won't tell just please come out from hiding now :)

Feelin Good....

2010-04-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

I had a 6:15am date with the gym this morning....let's just say it was a rough start(especially when the alarm goes off and it's still dark and you hear the rain pouring down outside!) But....I must say I feel so good and got home at 7:30 and everyone was still sleeping. I enjoyed a quiet cup or 2 of coffee and watched Good Day Sacramento! Great way to start the day...just wish it wasn't raining so we could go out and do something fun today. Oh well....

Planning

2010-04-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

Its about that time to start planning Riley's 5th birthday party!! I cant believe its going to be here in 2.5 weeks. I am going to be the mommy of a 5 year old???? Where does the time go? I'll let you know the details when I figure them out first :)

Glee!

2010-04-13T11:49:00.001-07:00

I am so excited for the return of Glee tonight!!! Any other fellow Glee watchers out there?

St. Thomas Us Virgin Islands!

2010-04-12T10:26:00.001-07:00

We're back!!! So excited to see the kids and get as many hugs and kisses and cuddles as we can...but, already missing it there! It was gorgeous. The ocean was so warm and the so turquoise, breathtaking really!

Me and my baby! Dont we look so happy and relaxed,haha!! We took this trip to celebrate everything this year since it was such a BIG trip. So here's to Zach's 30th birthday, our 7 year anniversary and Christmas :)

Our beautiful huge hotel The Marriot!

We had such a fun time and definitely want to go back again someday!

Sweet 16!

2010-03-23T10:16:00.000-07:00

Happy sweet 16 to my little sister Lexus Taylor "Lexi"!! I cant believe she is 16 today! Wow, I remember being in 6th grade and going to the hospital to see her. We didn't know if it was a boy or a girl and Im so lucky that I got a great sister like her! Happy Birthday Lex! Have a fabulous day!

Love your sis,
Chelsea

Thought...

2010-03-21T22:44:00.000-07:00

Health Care Reform passed tonight...woohoo! Finally ALL Americans can be taken care of!
We leave in 9 days for St. Thomas! WOW...getting a little nervous to leave my babies, but so excited at the same time. Need to figure out what to pack.
Didn't realize we were going to be gone on our trip over Easter. Feeling weird about not being with the kiddos on Easter but know they'll have a blast doing easter egg hunts with alllll the grandparents!
Loving the warmer weather and sunshine, but cant help to be sad with the cold and rain gone because I know it means the awful summer heat is coming SOON!
Wondering when its too early to turn on the Solar to start warming the pool???
My lil sister turns 16 on Tuesday....when did that happen?!
and...it's SPRING. I wanna plant lots of pretty flowers and get the backyard looking good!

Discovery Museum!

2010-03-19T16:10:00.001-07:00

Today we went to the Sacramento Discovery Science Museum! It was so fun. We met our friends Lisa and her daughters Emily and Charlie. We enjoyed a picnic in the park in the perfect weather! Then we headed in and explored. They have a big dinosaur exhibit going on right now and the kiddos loved it. Then we headed to the animal exhibit and looked at turtles, rabbits, insect, a toad and an owl.

Had apicnic in the park and the kids ran around the huge turtle filled pond about 5 times. They were worn out from such a fun day! Thanks Lisa for showing us this place and getting us in for free! We'll definitely be back :)

Spring Cleaning!

2010-03-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

That's what I'm doing today...not not the most fun I could be having but something that needs to be done and when it is I feel soooo much happier and content! So wish me luck as I wipe down all cupboards, throw anything we haven't used in the last 6 months away, and clean clean clean!!! For SPRING is right around the corner!!!!

Alice In Wonderland!

2010-03-12T11:09:00.000-08:00

That's what were going to see tonight! So excited. We're taking Riley & Trevor with us and Uncle Josh and Des! Gonna spoil them with soda, popcorn and candy! I love that they're getting old enough to do these "big kid" things with is :)

My Review of the Academy Awards!

2010-03-08T09:59:00.000-08:00

I LOVE watching all the awards shows. I watch all the red carpet pre-shows and the 3 hours of the awards!! Here's my little re-cap!

I was sooo happy that Sandra Bullock won for Best Actress! I love her! But I was torn between her and Gabourey Sidibe...I saw both The Blindside and Precious and thought they both were outstanding. As much as I adore Sandra I kinda wanted Gabby to win because it was her 1st ever acting job(she got it skipping school one day) and shes so young be nominated and her performance was breath taking.
I've never seen a movie with Jeff Bridges but I did see Crazy Heart and I loved it. Was so happy he won!

Mo'Nique definitely deserved to win for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Precious. You hated her in that movie, she was amazing.

Worst Dressed: there wasn't too many this year and even these ladies dont look bad but I had to pick some....this dress on Tina Fey was eh alright, it just kinda washed out her body. The other one(cant seem to get the pic) was Amanda Seyfried. She is so pale and she chose a white/silver dress and it washed her out completley!

Mo'Nique looked great in this pretty blue dress!

I thought Gabourey look beautiful in this dress and her hair and makeup. She is so confident in herself and she's adorable.

Jeff Bridges and his beautiful wife. They seem so sweet together and he made a cute shout out to her and their 3 daughters. They have been married 33 years.

And my favorite of the night...Sandra Bullock!!! I thought she was gorgeous in this dress and it matched perfectly with her new gold statue!!! Loved her pink lipstick, ,she is just so glamorous. Her speech was great and brought tears to my eyes and almost to her hubby's too!

March Already?

2010-03-01T14:23:00.000-08:00

Can it be??? I feel like it was just Christmas and New Years! March is an exciting month for me in which I love love the weather! Its not as cold as it has been but still perfect for wearing jeans and sweaters(my fav) and the rain dies down a little and the sun shines a little more! March seems like the month when everything starts to bloom...all the daffodils and the white and pink blossom trees which I find so pretty. I wish they would stay like that all year. This March is especially exciting for Zach and I because we leave on thr 31st for a week trip to the Virgin Islands!!!! I am sooo extremely excited but nervous as well. I just cant wait to lay on the beach with my toes in the sand and a fruity little umbrella drink in my hand and do NOTHING!!!! Yep, thats what Im most looking forward too! No bills, no whining, no rain...just the peaceful quietness of nothing and the waves crashing!!! But dont get me wrong I am going to miss my 3 little loves more than words can describe and thats why Im so nervous. But the more I think about leaving them the more anxious I get. I have to keep telling myelf that we deserve this, that they will be fine and so happy to spend time with Gramma & Papa and Nana & Grandpa, and that we will come home much more relaxed :)

Oh thank you Uncle Sam for our nice tax return! I feel we deserve it, but its so nice to know you think we do too!

So as another month begins, Im going to enjoy it to the fullest. I know the hot heat will be rapidly approaching and I do not look forward to that. I'm going to spend as much time outdoors with the little ones now, plant lots of flowers, get our backyard in shape and enjoy the sunshine while still in my jeans!

AllYou.com

2010-02-25T09:11:00.000-08:00

This is a new website that I love. I just signed up to receive a couple of issues of their magazine for free and just happened to click on their website and its so cute. It gives out coupons for tons of food and household items, ,decorating ideas (which Im obsessed with) and dieting, beauty tips. So if you get a free minute check it out!

Happy Birthday Bob!

2010-02-23T08:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday!!!

We hope you have a wonderful birthday Bob, Dad and Papa! (You're known as a lot around here)
You have the most caring, open heart and everyone knows it. You have an amazing sense of direction. You always are positive even in the hardest times you bring a light to every situation. Thank you for being you. We wish you all the happiness, love and we'll throw wealth in there too because we all like that, this year!!! You deserve it!

Love Us

What did you think....

2010-02-19T12:51:00.000-08:00

about Tiger Woods' speech. I thought it was eh..alright. Don't fully think it was sincere and seemed more like a presidential speech to me. He really showed no remorse or sincerity or even emotion (besides when he was getting visibly angry about the paparazzi chasing his wife....reason he needs anger management, I think so) I do think that it was good of him to publicly apologize since so many thousands of children look up to him as a role model. After all, he did not HAVE to go up on national television and say anything at all but he did. On the other hand, this man may have done it for pure attention, to get fans back and even for good ratings for his sponsors which all in all equals $$$! I guess we'll never know. I just hope his beautiful wife and 2 adorable children don't have to be sucked into this horrible tragedy even more than they already have.

If Elin stays with him, she is a very brave, confident strong woman...God knows she has more nerve than I do :)

Valentine's Day!

2010-02-16T09:16:00.001-08:00

This Valentine's Day marked our 8th one together! We had such a sweet and fun time. We celebrated early and went out on Friday night well...because we had a babysitter :) We went to a yummy Mexican restaurant in El Dorado Hills where I ordered this very yummy strawberry margarita. We shared the beef and shrimp fajitas and then a scrumptious churro sundae! Yum! Next I gave Zach his card and it had a little (big) surprise in it!

This is what he found in his card!! Yes, I booked a trip to St. Thomas!!! We leave March 31st and come home April 7th. I am so excited but also nervous to leave the kids and be sooo far away from them, but I know they'll be in good hands! The look on Zach's face when he read this was priceless and I think he was shocked that I actually did it,haha! So over dinner and dessert we talked about how we wanted to really kick it in gear and get in shape for this trip. Now mind you its only 6 weeks away so we know we have to set a feesable goal and we wont have the body of our dreams before we leave but we'll be skinnier, healthier and feel better about ourselves. I think Zach looks great by the way ;)

After dinner we went to see the movie Valentine's Day and it was really cute. Nothing outrageous and pretty predictable but still cute! And I love me some Bradley Cooper and Ashton Kutcher <3 The next morning I woke up to a beautiful red daisy on the pillow next to me and these rose petals scattered all the way down the hallway. What a romantic I married. It led to the kitchen where I found this homemade breakfast my honey had made for me. Pancakes, ,eggs and toast with fruit and juice!

So all in all, we had a wonderful Valentine's Day and cant wait to spend a week in the Virgin Islands!!!! I am so happy that Zach is my one and only valentine. I wouldnt pick anyone else in the world to spend this special day or any other day with. Thank you Zach for always holding my hand, supporting me, and just being my best friend. I love you to pieces!!!

What We've Been Up To...

2010-02-10T09:21:00.000-08:00

We have been very sick around here! First I caught the flu, and then passed it to Zach! He then gave it to the kids and at first I thought they just got the cold(runny nose,cough) part, but we weren't that lucky. Riley and Trevor's cough kept getting worse and then Ireland woke up one morning with a runny nose and it all went downhill from there. Fevers started 2 sundays ago on Jan. 31st. There was high fevers, horrific coughs and NO SLEEP! Finally Trevor just sounded awful, had a on-going fever for 5 days and I finally took him into the dr. He had Pneumonia!!! How scary is that! So they started him on some strong antibiotics. Then Rileys fever reappeared and one afternoon she fell asleep on the couch(which I knew she was really not feeling well because she never falls asleep like that) She woke up with a 104 temp. and bright red blothches all over her body. I freaked out and it was Sat. night so I knew the pediatrician was closed so I rushed her to the ER. Thankfully it wasn't very busy and we were only there an 1 1/2. They said she had a bad virus and an ear infection. They started her on amoxicillan and I as a mother could only bet that Ireland has an ear infection as well so shes been taking it too. They are finally starting to feel better and thank god because Im starting to go crazy in this house!!!

Apricot Chicken with Stuffing

2010-02-09T12:36:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite fall and winter recipes is this. Its so yummy and even the kids devour it!

4 skinless chicken breasts
1 box of Stove Top Chicken Stuffing
1 jar Apricot Preserves

(yes thats it...thats all the ingredients you need!!)

Preheat oven to 350. Place chicken in baking dish and cook for 30 mins(or until cooked through). 5 mins before chicken is done prepare stuffing as directed on box. Once chicken is done spoon the stuffing all around chicken. Then spoon the apricot preserves on top of chicken(use whole jar) Cook for another 5 mins on 350 and serve!

Hope you enjoy it as much as us!

childhood...

2010-02-04T17:31:00.000-08:00

Make a wish.....

Valentine's ideas?

2010-02-01T09:40:00.001-08:00

Just 2 weeks til Valentine's Day! Anybody have any plans? I wanted to either make some cute crafty valentine's Day cards with the kids or I saw this website on another blog and thought their stuff was so adorable and quaint- http://www.etsy.com/shop/prettyfnmess

I think I'm going to go put my little heart wreath on the front door and my tablecloth and heart shaped place mats on the kitchen table and make it a little festive in here. The kids are sick today so maybe we'll cut out some red hearts and hang them on the front window if they feel up to it <3

Gym!

2010-01-29T17:51:00.000-08:00

So I'm back at it! I realized that summer is like 3 months away and although I won't be wearing a bikini ever again...I would like to be in good shape! I love going to the gym but getting there is the tough part. With 3 kids, packing em up, getting them settled all into daycare and finally getting on the gym floor really is a production. But once I'm working out I really do enjoy it. Its an hour of quiet time for me and I work my butt off at at the same time (well last time I checked my butt was still there and isn't going anywhere anytime soon!) but you know what I mean! Yesterday and today I did 45mins of cardio and yesterday did leg weights and today arm weights. Feels good! I hope the weight starts falling off! Oh and Lana if you're reading this join 24Hr!!! I need a gym buddy!

Perfect night...

2010-01-21T17:15:00.000-08:00

for a roast! My house smells so good! I love my crock-pot and use it at least once a week. This morning I put in a roast with a bunch of seasonings and then added potatoes, carrots, celery and onions...yum. I also love knowing all day, that dinner is cooking and will already be done when its time to eat! Happy eating :)

Dr. Checkups

2010-01-11T12:13:00.000-08:00

Trevor and Ireland both had theirs this morning at 8:30am!!!! Why would I schedule it that early...mind you we are up at that time; but to be up, showered, dressed and out the door and to the dr. at 8:30? But, with both mine and zachs OCD about time management you can bet we were there and early!

Trevor weighed in at 34lbs and 37 inches tall
Ireland is not far behind him for only being 18mos. old weighing in at 22.5lbs!

They both got shots..OUCH!! I hate that part more then they do I think! They did so good and each got to pick out a sticker and a sucker (Riley too for being so patient!) She goes to her 5yr. checkup in May so she can be all ready for Kindergarten in August!

These babies are just growing up way too fast but I am so happy they are all so healthy!

Christmas Break is over!

2010-01-05T11:12:00.000-08:00

which means the "big" kids go back to school today...woohoo!!! I know I shouldn't be excited but I think its good for both me and them. It will be nice to have a little (2.5hr) break for 3 days a week again and it will be good for Riley & Trevor to get out and have their own time to play, learn and hang with their friends. So yes I AM excited!

Christmas Came and Went....

2010-01-03T16:13:00.001-08:00

way too fast this year! I can't believe it's already gone and its already 2010! WOW! The kids must have been pretty darn good this year because Santa left them a lot! Ireland loved opening gifts this year, especially ones with bows.

Riley riding by herself!

Trevor was sooo excited to see a bike by the xmas tree!

matching sisters!

Hope you all had just as great of a Christmas as we did!

Merry Christmas 2009

2009-12-23T09:15:00.000-08:00

Wow, this year has really flown by! I cannot believe it is already Christmas Eve tomorrow. Feels like we just celebrated Christmas in our little rental all surrounded by boxes, newspaper and tape as we were moving to our new home 2 days later. Yes, we will have been in our home for 1 year on Dec. 27th! We feel so blessed to have a roof over our head and to have really been able to make this "our" home. We love it here, love having the 4 bedrooms and a pool, it sometimes still feels unreal. I never thought I would own a house with a pool!

Zach is still working hard as ever at his parents real estate office as Office Manager and Bob's assistant. He even took over doing the transaction coordinating. He really enjoys it there which still surprises me because it is such an office job and he his well you know...Zach!! On the side, Zach and Josh also started their business back up and changed the name to Acoustic Expressions. So if you or anyone you know needs any audio work done please give them a call!

Riley will be 5 in May and starting Kindergarten this next year!!!Kindergarten, that feels so weird to say, write and even think about! She has come out of her shell so much with these last 2 years of preschool. I think she will still be very shy the first day but is going to love it. She is very excited to pick out her own special backpack and pencils. Riley continues to be the sweetest, girly girl around and loves helping her brother and sister with anything they want or need.

Trevor is 3 and is all Boy! He loves to jump, run, spin, ride on Daddy's new mini chopper...basically anything that moves! He joined his big sister at preschool this year and is doing so well. He loves Spiderman, beanies, balls, and the outdoors! People are still surprised though when they see how sweet and gentle he is with his baby sister, he loves to guide her, hold her hand and kiss her. Love that little guy!

And that brings me to Ireland Kate.....she is a character thats for sure! She is 1 1/2 and I think she will be a tomboy. She loves getting into everything, playing with all kids no matter what their age or size she just jumps right in. She can definitely tell you "Nooo!" and shes a girl who knows what she wants. She still loves to cuddle though and give kisses. She sleeps 11-12 hours a night which is such a nice blessing to mommy and daddy! Ireland keeps you on your toes and thats why I love her so much!

As for another baby we will have one for sure but probably not for another year or so. I know what you're thinkin..yeah, yeah right...but for now we're content. These 3 keep me busy throughout the day. I do miss the smell and tinyness of a newborn and can't wait to have that again.

As for me, I still stay at home and love it. I couldn't imagine missing all these special moments and milestones with my babies. They are my life. I love taking care of the home and running the household. We feel lucky that I am able to stay home because we know not every family gets to.

We traveled to Disneyland three times this year, in May for Rileys 4th bday, in October when we went to visit Jess and Daniel in Oceanside, and a spur of the moment trip at the beginning of December. I think we may have to invest in annual passes. We just LOVE it there and the kids think its magical!!

Well, we hope this letter finds you all healthy and happy. Lets make 2010 a fabulous year! Lots of travels, laughter and family because family is what its all about! Zach and I feel very blessed to have the family that we do. Does it get any better than this?

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you and yours!

Love the McKiernan's,
Zach, Chelsea, Riley, Trevor & Ireland

Countdown....

2009-12-21T12:31:00.000-08:00

is on!!! 4 days til Christmas!!!!

Done and Done

2009-12-13T21:27:00.000-08:00

with all my Christmas shopping and wrapping that is!!! Whew....and does it feel good! I am never done this early. I think though that this being our 1st Christmas in our new home made me want to get it all done and enjoy every minute of it. I had the decorating done before Thanksgiving and the tree up the weekend after! Usually I am a total procrastinator and am shopping til the very last minute possible, but nope not this year! Im DONE!!!

A White Christmas?

2009-12-11T10:28:00.000-08:00

Ireland is loving all the lights this xmas! Look at that big toothy smile!

happy kiddos :)

How I got them all to look and smile I'll never know.....

We got SNOW! Yes you heard me right....Snow in Sacramento!! The kids loved looking out the window at all the snow and Daddy even went out and made a snowball for them to play with. Could we actually have a white Christmas this year?! Most likely not but a girl can dream right!???

Thanksgiving!

2009-12-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

We had a very nice and relaxing Thanksgiving this year! Hung out in the morning in our pj's with hot cocoa and watched the Thanksgiving Day Parade. Then I made my first ever sweet potato casserole(its the recipe from Ruth Chris' Steakhouse..yum!!!) and we headed over to visit Grandma Shirley and wish her a Happy Thxgiving too! Ireland sat on her lap and laid her head down on Great Grandma, it was so sweet. Next, it was off to Bob and Linda's to eat, hang and enjoy each others company. We played on the Wii Fit and also played a couple games. The kids were on their best behavior as usual and by the end of the night we were ready for bed with our turkey filled tummies :)

Thankful

2009-11-25T23:36:00.000-08:00

I have so many things to be thankful for! My family. Friends. My home. Zach's steady job. A pool. This country we live in. Our health and happiness. Preschool. Comfort food. A wonderful marriage. A warm bed. I could go on forever and ever....and as this year is soon coming to an end I look back and appreciate all that I have and I all that I need. Excited to wake up in the morning, cuddle on the couch in our pj's, sipping hot cocoa (coffee for muah) and watch the Thanksgiving day parade with my little loves! Then head over to Bob and Lindas for a yummy dinner and hang out time with most of the fam.....life doesn't get much better and reiterates once again, I have so many things to be thankful for.

LOVE

2009-11-17T22:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Veteran's Day!!!

2009-11-11T10:07:00.000-08:00

Just want to send a huge Thank You to all the Veteran's who have and are serving our country! Without you we would be nothing. You have all sacrificed your lives for us and this great country and I truly appreciate it!

A special thanks to my Dad, Papa's, Uncle Gary and Uncle John who are all Veterans and to my cousin Bryan who is serving in the Special Forces in Afghanistan right now and to cousin Chad who just returned from serving!!!!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!

For him or the kids???

2009-11-07T14:43:00.000-08:00

This is Zach's new toy..oops I meant the kids new toy, right! Zach has been looking up Mini Choppers on Craigslist for months and months now and finally found the perfect (and least expensive) one. He sold a bunch of video games, because he knew he was not spending our money to get this, and went and picked it up this morning. He has been so excited about this chopper and is out in the garage with Trevor and Riley as I write this inspecting, piddling with and cleaning it. I am NOT getting on that thing as much as he may beg me too...it aint happenin!

This little guy thinks its the best thing to happen since mac & cheese with hotdogs!

Cutest thing you ever did see isn't it?!

Happy Halloween!!!

2009-11-05T18:10:00.001-08:00

3 Cinderella's!!

G-pa and Spidey

What an exciting and eventful Halloween we had this year! The kids had a Halloween party at preschool and had a lot of fun. Trevor and Riley did the bean bag toss and were great at it. Trevor also took part in Pumpkin Bowling! They did a parade around the building and then a song up on stage. My 2 were too shy(shocker?..I think not!) to take part in the singing but had fun watching their great teacher Ms. Suzanne and the rest of the kids sing and dance.

he's got his stance!

Then for Halloween night, we had 23 people over for chili, cornbread, meatballs, crackers and cheese, finger cookies, chips and salsa and a Halloween cake!! We all ate and drank and had a good time. Then it was off for some Trick-or-Treating!! The kids all went up to the doors by themselves and were so proud about it! We went pretty dang far and they enjoyed coming home and checking out their loot! I had so much fun partying with my beautiful Cinderella, Squirmy Spiderman and adorable Monkey!

FULL

2009-10-27T18:54:00.001-07:00

Yes, my hands are full but so is my heart!!

Growing Up!

2009-10-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

my little "big" man! Loves skateboarding, wrestling, books and preschool!

Everyone always told me, " just wait, they grow up so fast!" and I was always " yeah,yeah,ok, sure"...and now...I'm a Believer!! I mean my babies that I just gave birth to yesterday are growing up! And don't get me wrong I LOVE watching them grow, change, mature and learn new things but it also makes me sad...it's a bittersweet thing really. And people are always asking us "so you guys aren't done?" or " you're gonna have more??" and the answer is yes!! People think we are crazy sometimes but it is just right for us. We love kids, being parents, being pregnant (ok, I guess I love that one) and we can't wait to have more...ok we can....we're content right now. Our hands are full at the moment but in a year or two or three we would love to add another addition to our family. But until then we are loving life and enjoying watching our children grow!

Miss Ireland Kate is "officially" walking now! And may I add "into everything!!"

She is such a character and I just love her big toothy smile!

And Miss Riley Ann....look at those eyes! She is just growing up before our eyes!

Uh-Oh!

2009-10-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

I think the pool may overflow??? The weather here in "sunny,beachy CA" is the complete opposite right now! Don't get me wrong, I love it! I love snuggling, fires, hot cocoa, laying in bed and listening to the rain(if that ever happens) but, I don't like that our backyard that we've been working so hard on now looks like a tornado went through it. Our pool is about to overflow any minute, there's a lounge chair in the pool along with tree branches and a gazillion leaves, the umbrella broke in the wind and the kids little dollhouse/playhouse completely fell apart.......looks like Daddy has some work to do :)

Poundcake with a Chocolate Glaze

2009-10-13T10:25:00.000-07:00

Yummy...I love baking in this weather!

Pumpkin Poser!

2009-10-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

Vote For Riley!!!

2009-10-07T09:25:00.003-07:00

http://family.go.com/gapcastingcall/entries/ChelseaMckiernan/447268292/

Vote For Trevor!!!!

2009-10-07T09:25:00.001-07:00

http://family.go.com/gapcastingcall/entries/ChelseaMckiernan/737268473/

Gap Contest!!! Please Vote!!!

2009-10-07T09:22:00.000-07:00

http://family.go.com/gapcastingcall/entries/ChelseaMckiernan/107268542/

I Love Fall!!!

2009-10-06T13:56:00.000-07:00

My favorite season of them all:
pumpkins

warm meals/crockpot

chilly weather

no air conditioner

open windows and nice breezes

scarves

baking

trees changing color

slippers

Halloween/Thanksgiving

pie

snuggling with blankets and a fire

but sad it doesn't last for very long!! Oh Fall how I adore you!!

I Love You This Much!

2009-09-22T09:46:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I was shopping with my mom in Home Goods and Riley spotted a Halloween bear that she had to have!

Riley: "mommy hand me that bear!"

Me: "no, you dont need that

Riley: "please mommy let me see it!"

Me: "how much do you love me?"

Riley: "this much" (stretching her arms out to the side)

Me: "thats it?"

Riley: "Mommy, I love you as much as my arms can reach, now hand me that bear!!!"

My oh my she is a determined little girl isn't she? I couldn't help but laugh at how cute she was when she said that :)

Not Me Mondays!

2009-09-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

Well folks, it's here again...Not Me Monday! Are you feeling guilty for drying off with the same bath towel for over two weeks? Hope that no one saw when you adjusted your nursing pads with one hand as you dropped your preschooler off at school while carrying your baby in the car seat with the other hand? Overcome with embarrassment when your child slammed the door so hard it shook the neighbor's house as well? Well don't be! Not Me! Monday was born out of my desire to admit some of my imperfections and reveal a few moments I'd rather forget. You may find it therapeutic to join in and do the same thing!

I certainly did not fill up Ireland's sippy cup with some of Daddy's root beer yesterday in the car on our long drive just to keep her content and quiet, nope not me!

Never was I too lazy to go to the garage and feed the dogs so I just let them have at it with our leftovers from dinner, nope not me!

And I most certainly did not leave my husband on the couch after he fell asleep watching tv just so I could not have the whole bed to myself, nope, never ever would I do that..not me!

Shout Out!

2009-09-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give a little shout-out to Linda and Bob and ok, myself!! Haha! We have been walking 2-3 miles Monday thru Friday for over a month now! And today we increased it to 3.5 miles and some stairs! Woo hoo! Go us!! Everything was going great til this week when I all of a sudden started getting blisters and calluses..ughh!! I know pretty huh? But its feeling a little better...hey no pain no gain, right?!

1st Day of Preschool!

2009-09-16T17:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Riley's 1st day of her second year at preschool and was Trevor's 1st day ever! We have been talking about it a lot preparing them and Trevor was so excited because he always wanted to stay with Riley last year when I would drop her off. We got new shoes, picked out our outfits, styled our hair and were off! After arriving at the school, I signed the kids in and found their name tags. As I was putting Trevor's on him I looked around and found Riley girl already sitting down with her classmates for circle time! I was shocked. Usually she is Miss Clingy and Super Shy but there she was, legs crossed and patiently waiting. I attached Trev's and gave him a kiss nervously waiting for a cry or reaction and off he went to join his big sis on the circle rug. I, me..mommy, had to walk over to them and kiss them goodbye!! What was going on? No crying, screaming, hanging on to me?! I was happy and so relieved but at the same time....kinda sad. My little boy and girl seemed so old and self-sufficient!

Anyways, once I got over myself I was fine. Picked em up 2.5 hours later and they were climbing and playing on the playground, not a worry in the world!!

Big Basin...McKiernan/Waldron Annual Camping Trip!

2009-09-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

We are back!!! What an exciting and adventurous camping trip. I think much fun was had by all and it was such a nice and different way to celebrate our birthdays! We arrived Friday about 12:30 and set up camp. Our sites were beautiful with oddly shaped trees which made a good picture spot! We had so much fun enjoying everybody's company and food. We planned out a menu this time and it seemed to work out great! After setting up camp and eating lunch we went for a 1.75 mile walk to the camp store and got some ice cream. We then headed back and hung out, had dinner and then Josh, Des and Chase arrived with the goodies for smores! ( No camping trip is complete without smores!!)
The next morning we had breakfast and then packed up and headed to New Brighton State Beach. We met up with Aunt Mary, Uncle Tom, Sean and Cameron and spent the day hangin on the beach. G-pa and Auntie Mikalya got Trevor a huge pirate ship kite so with the help of the 4 guys, yes I said 4, we got it up and running. Perfect day to fly a kite I might add. We also got to see a dolphin or 2 playing in the water just off shore...what a treat! We had reservations at Zelda's in Capitola and had a delicious birthday dinner!!! Riley started to run a fever and get the flu during dinner, poor baby girl. She had the stomach flu the rest of the trip but insisted on staying to camp :) What a trooper!! After dinner we headed to the Boardwalk and had some fun going on rides there. Trevor is all boy and such a little daredevil, he loves rides!!! Sunday we went on a 2.5 mile hike to a waterfall and played some drinking games, had dinner, bday cake and even a champagne toast from the Hegarty's!
All in all, our trip was a success and one that will be remembered!

A Camping We Will Go....

2009-09-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

We're off again, this time to Big BAsin in the Santa Cruz Mountains! So excited just to be leaving town, getting a break and to be camping but also because while we're camping it will be my 26th bday, Zach's 29th bday( holy cow my hubby's almost 30!!) and Trevor's 3rd bday (this also blows me away...when did he get this old?)

Some may call us crazy but we love travelling with our little ones and wouldn't have it any other way! We always talked about before we had kids that we wanted to stay the same, do the same things and just have our little tag-alongs with us :) I think it has helped them a lot too. They are so accustomed to the "outside" world, new people and travelling. They are the best little campers you ever did see. And at this campsite we get 2-in-1..camping in the mountains and the beach/Boardwalk which is just a short drive away! So...you know I will update when we get back and of course have a gazillion pics to show!!!

Downeastbasics.com

2009-08-18T00:43:00.000-07:00

Lovin this dress!!! You can find it at Downeastbasics.com

Adorable clothes and Supermomcentral.blogspot.com is giving you the chance to win a giveaway!!! Check out her blog and take part!

1st Sleepover!!

2009-08-16T11:49:00.001-07:00

We had Nicole's daughter, Makalyn, spend the night last night and it just so happened to be Riley and Trevor's 1st sleepover! They were all very excited about it! We went to eat at Panda Express and then walked to the store where each girl picked out their very own bag of candy! You can imagine how thrilled they were :)

Then we headed home and watched cartoons and danced and the girls snacked on some of their candy. They played with their dolls, and were very sweet in including Trevor and Ireland. We made a big bed on the floor with blankets and pillows, read books, said our good-nights and gave kisses. They all slept so good and even let us sleep in a little til 8:15! This morning they all chose to have oatmeal and milk for breakfast and then they beaded their own bracelets. They were sooo proud of them!

It was so fun watching them all interact and have fun and I know this is just the beginning to many a sleepovers, and I am honestly looking forward to it!

Will he use it???

2009-08-13T11:00:00.000-07:00

I know I know, Im obsessed but I can't wait for tonight on Big Brother to see if Jeff uses the Coup 'deta (or however it's spelled)to take Russell and Lidia off the block and put up Jesse and Natalie!!! I hope hope hope he does! Tune in...it's on at 7:00 tonight...but if you miss it you know we will have it recorded in this household :)

Not Me Mondays!!!

2009-08-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week. Sooooo I have decided to take it on myself since I enjoy reading her's so much and of course don't do any of those things!!!

I did not feed my kids cereal and raisin toast for dinner last night because I was sooo tired and daddy worked all day so I wanted to not make my life easier, nope not me!

I did not leave a basket full of clean clothes and 2 huge piles of clean clothes all in the laundry room because I was too lazy to put them alll away, nope not me!

I of course did not let the kids climb into the bed in the middle of the night with us because we were so exhausted and did not want to risk waking the 3rd child. Nope we did not give into their screaming and crying and pull them up so we could all just fall back asleep for a few more hours, nope not me!

Day at the Lake

2009-08-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

We went to the lake yesterday just the 5 of us and Lexi. We had fun...it was hot but not too hot, perfect for sunbathing and wading in the water. Josh was generous enough to let us use the wave runner and we had lots of fun with that as always. And my sister could eat, sleep and breathe on that thing! Ireland wasn't so sure about the water at first but soon started splashing and picking up rocks. Riley and Trevor played with their shovels and pails and Trevor always loves to go on the wave runner! All in all it was a nice relaxing Saturday.

Afterwards, Nana and Grandpa watched the kids and Zach and I went on a much needed date! The kids have not been sleeping too well and we've been sooo tired so it was nice to have a night out and a full night's sleep(even if only for 1 night). We splurged and went to Fat's and enjoyed their delicious honey walnut prawns and adult drinks :) Then we caught a showing of The Ugly Truth which was pretty funny. We got home and you're probably guessing you know how the night ended...or how its supposed to end on a "date night", but it didn't! We caught up on a little Big Brother and hit the sheets...literally falling right asleep!!! I guess we'll make up for it another time.........

Concert in the Park!

2009-08-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

We have been to Concert in the Park for the last 2 Fridays nights and we really love it! It is such a fun atmosphere with all the families, kids running around playing and dancing, people bbqing and great bands! The kids have such a fun time and the best part is it's FREE! That's always a plus for us!

Auntie Jess!

2009-07-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

Riley and Trevor always talk about their Auntie Jess and lately Riley has been wanting to call her Auntie and talk to her on the phone. I think it's such a good idea because they can keep in contact and stay close since we live far away from them! Thanks Auntie Jess for calling Riley and Trevor back today and talking to them. I know they love it and love you VERY much!!! Can't wait to plan a trip down to see you guys and your new house and take the kids to the beach with their Aunite Jess!

Happy Birthday Josh!

2009-07-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

Camping with a Little Ri

at the lake with Ire

Jump T Jump!

It's your birthday today! 32 years ago you entered this world and no one has ever been the same since...literally! Ha! You are such a fun guy to be around. You always know how to make us laugh and Riley, Trevor and Ireland light up with joy when they see you! You are an amazing uncle to my kids and an awesome brother to Zach and I! Thanks for all you do for us! We love you!

Big Brother Returns!!!

2009-07-09T14:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, you can say I'm a Big Brother addict! But hey I wait all year for this show and it finally premieres tonight at 7:00! and okay this part is really bad....every year when it comes on Zach calls our Tv company and orders Showtime so I can watch Big Brother After Dark(its on from 9-midnight every single night)...told you it was really bad! But I'm a bussssy mommy of 3 and I think I deserve it for it is on only 1 month every year, right??!!

Surgery??

2009-07-09T14:43:00.000-07:00

So I have been having these pains in the middle of my upper abdomen for a while now. I have just been dealing with it and hoping it would go away..but it hasn't. I think I may have to have my gallbladder removed...surgery...being put under..agghhh!!! You all know how my births and c-sections have been and why this is freeking me out!! I went to the Dr. a couple weeks ago about it and he scheduled me to have an ultrasound! He thinks it is most likely my gallbladder (I was really hoping for indigestion or something along those lines..) So my ultrasound is set for next week, we'll see how it goes. I'll keep you updated and hey maybe it won't show anything and the pain will just subside forever....ok a girl can dream (especially since my grandma, mom and cousin all have had theirs removed, it seems to run in the fam!)

Happy 4th of July!!!

2009-07-04T23:30:00.001-07:00

We had such a fun and relaxing day today! The 4th of July really is my next favorite holiday after Christmas! I just love all the block parties, bbq's, family and fireworks! I love it even more now because I get to see my kids' faces light up when they watch the firweorks! We spent the day sleeping in (yes the kids had climbed into our bed by 7:00am but fell back asleep til 9:00!) Then we just lounged around in our pj's til about noon! Gramma and Papa, G-pa, and Auntie Mikayla came over and we bbq'd, the kids swam and then all set up out front to watch Daddy light fireworks!!

Party Time!

2009-07-01T10:34:00.001-07:00

Ireland's 1st birthday was a blast! Thanks to everyone who came for making it special for her. Even though it was 107 degrees outside, somehow we still managed to have a great time(thank god for the pool!!)

Happy Birthday Ireland Kate!!!

2009-06-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

Well it has finally come...this day that I've been thinking about for the last few months thinking at the same time that its coming way too fast. How can she already be 1? Ireland is the sweetest little girl. She is going to be walking anytime now. She definitely wants to be able to keep up with her brother and sister! She has 4 teeth and is even a little sassy. She smiles and laughs constantly and that makes me so happy. Happy Birthday sweet girl of mine...we love you oh so much and continue to say you are the best surprise we could have asked for!!!!

Pulling herself up....

2009-06-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

on everything!! I walked into Ireland's room a few weeks ago and this is how I found her, happily jumping away in her crib! She seemed so proud of herself that she could do it. Ever since then she is pulling herself up on everything...chairs, beds, tables,wherever she can! I don't think it will be long til she's walking now!

Wonderful Daddy!!!

2009-06-22T20:17:00.000-07:00

Zach truly is a one-of-a-kind dad! He absolutely loves being a dad to our 3 munchkins and I think he enjoys it so much because he is a kid inside. He jumps in whenever I need an extra hand or the kids want to play. He loves to slide with them at the park, teach them how to play fun videogames, wrestle with them and sometimes just cuddle up with them. Thanks Zach for all you do...I couldn't ask for a better daddy for our kids and I know they never ever would either!!!

Can't believe...

2009-06-18T09:08:00.001-07:00

that my little girl will be 1 year old in 12 days!!!! That is absolutely crazy to me! Honestly feels like I just had her and brought her home. Her 1st birthday party is next Saturday the 27th at 3:00pm!!

Bring your swimsuits and towels and come celebrate with us!!!