3 Musketeers

MovingForward

2010-04-20T03:37:00.000-07:00

My Max...God's Promise

2010-02-28T22:38:00.000-08:00

I was away at a women's conference for the weekend and I came home and spent the evening with the main man in my life, Maximillian. We hung out, watched a new Veggie Tales' movie and then I read him a story and tucked him into bed. Now, you have to understand that the things that come out of this child's mouth daily crack me up, amaze me, or bring me to tears with their depth and insight. But tonight, I was especially moved. We talked about a lot of things and He told me, "Mom - God made me special and everyone loves me so much. (which, i so want him to feel since he's gone through some tough stuff) and I know what a rainbow is - God's promise to us! I would like to plant rainbow seeds and grow rainbow flowers because that's God's promise!" To which I told him a very filtered version of a dream and vision God gave me the day the earth stood still for me, 10 months ago. I told Max, "You know, sweetie, Mama was really sad one day..'Why were you sad, Mama?'...well, because Mama was just having a hard day." To which Max replied, "But, Mom - Jesus will come and take care of you and you don't have to be sad - because He'll make you happy!" and I told him that he was absolutely right, and that Mama saw a rainbow that day and Jesus promised me that even though it was a really, really big storm, everything was going to be okay, and Max and Mia would be okay - Jesus promised! So then Max tells me, "Who know who I love the most, Mom? God. and Jesus. They take care of us." Then as I prayed for him and kissed him goodnight - he blew me a kiss and I blew him one back and he said, "I caught that kiss and put it in my heart." then one last thing, "Mom? Jesus will take care of you, always...even when you're lost, He'll show you how to get home, okay?"
Out of the mouths of babes...My 3 year old just spoke the heart of God to my broken and bleeding soul, and it brings me healing. Especially to know that he is knowing God as his Abba Father - the way I had to know God when my Dad left when I was 7. God has always been my Faithful Father and is being just that to my babies. I'm humbled with gratitude.

LOVED doing this wedding!

2010-01-18T00:36:00.001-08:00

http://www.yourweddingday.com/ywd/index.php?option=com_myblog&Itemid=134&lang=en&show=Tres-Tres-Fabu.html

My World

2010-01-11T23:37:00.000-08:00

9 months later....

2010-01-11T22:55:00.000-08:00

Hey Everyone...yep, it's almost been year since I posted. Not sure if anyone even checks this anymore, but there's a reason I went MIA. There's just the 3 of us now. Me and Max and Mia. I won't go into detail, but do appreciate all the love and prayers...it's kept me going through the valley of the shadow of death believing we'll make it through. I will probably start a new blog about our new life, but wanted to say we're okay, and God has blessed us with amazing friends and family to see us through.
"Whatever you do, hold on to hope.
The tiniest thread will twist into an unbreakable cord.
Let hope anchor you in the possibility that this is not the end of your story.
That change will bring you to peaceful shores."
All I know is that this is not the end of my story.

Max and Mia

2009-03-30T23:06:00.000-07:00

Entertaining me while Daddy's gone!

Miss Mia!!! 5 months old!

2009-03-30T22:59:00.000-07:00

My little Miss Hawaii! We're loving the sunshine!!!

2009-03-11T22:05:00.000-07:00

Mia in her little peanut shell, Max had fun with paint, the best Grandparents ever, and my love!

Miss you Dada!

2009-03-11T20:55:00.000-07:00

yet another video on the potty - the only time you can get him to sit still ;) James is coming home soon and we're counting down the minutes - it's been a long 2 weeks! Sorry Max was a little whine-y, it was like 11 at night!

2009-03-05T02:15:00.001-08:00

me and my little man

2009-03-05T02:15:00.000-08:00

2009-03-03T01:14:00.000-08:00

bad bad blogger!

2009-02-25T00:05:00.000-08:00

I've limited my computer time to doing my business or catching up with friends on Facebook and my computer has been gone for 2 weeks,too! sorry these posts have been so few and in between! James has been gone for the last 2 weeeks and it's been rough without him, but we're managing! We've been under the weather, so I couldn't do it without my folks! single mom-hood, not for me! But I have been loving the time with friends and focusing in on the kids and working out and spending it with the fam. will post more when i get my computer back!

I've limited my computer time to doing my business or catching up with friends on Facebook! sorry these posts have been so few and in between! James has been gone for the last 2 weeeks and it'

brother and sister

2009-02-09T23:09:00.000-08:00

make sure you pause the music player to the left before you play the video! Max was making Mia laugh so hard - it's so fun to see them already cracking eachother up! Sorry the whole video took place on the potty! :}

Home alone!

2009-01-22T00:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I know I have tons of catching up to do and I'm sorry I've been slacking (like having a 2yr. and a newborn is slacking!) on my posts! But, for tonight - I'll just say that I'm missing my Hubby as he's in Fresno till tomorrow night, and I'm home with the munchkins by myself for the week! Working for PG&E they get sent on a rotation, a getting temporarily transferred sort of thing, for the next 3 months, but he'll hopefully get to come home on most weekends. Mimi and Poppa are helping me out (a TON), and we're making it! It's going to be a long 3 months, but we'll be fine - I'm so grateful for all he does and how hard he works - we miss you, Babe!

good times!

2009-01-22T00:29:00.000-08:00

Max LOVES his gymnastics class and his buddy Dutchess! and Mia is smiling away like crazy! It's so fun!

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2009-01-12T13:44:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a great Christmas and New Year's! I'm in recovery mode:

MiaBella's Newborn Pictures!

2008-12-18T08:28:00.000-08:00

Yay for the amazing Danielle! dbryanphoto.blogspot.com
and this was the first day Mia started smiling! I'm so glad she captured it! Miss Mia didn't enjoy being naked and stuck in a gift box with a bow on her head - or naked at all for that matter, but she was a trooper and gave us a couple heartwarming smiles!

Goodbye, Grandma..

2008-12-09T02:01:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we had a service for my beloved Grandma and celebrated the life of the phenomenal and effervescent woman. It was mourning the loss for our family and celebrating the freedom that she has in heaven now. I adore this picture and it totally embodies who she was; this is when she was a nurse during WWII and all the soldiers just loved her! We'll miss you, Grandma, but are so happy you're home and free from pain!

Doesn't she look amazing??? 94!!! And her sister, Auntie Kimi, just turned 100!

Catch up...

2008-12-09T02:00:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been behind on my blogging - so I just about covered what we've been up to in the last 7 weeks since our Princess graced our lives. Phew - we did a lot, just documenting it all made me tired; well, that and it's almost 2 a.m.! This sweetie pie is a night owl, and although a great sleeper - she's been wantin' to party till early hours before she crashes. Which is what I'm still doing up. I'm honestly trying to figure the whole 2 kid thing out, and doing marvelously some days, and barely making it other days. I currently have some strep thing and have completely lost my voice, so that's fun - and not so convincing when you're trying to discipline your 2 yr. old! yeah, he thinks it's funny that I'm whispering! Anyhoo - I just thought, well, since I'm up.... here ya go! I had to do some backtracking, so bear with the time lapse! I guess it makes sense why I'm so tired! we obviously did a lot since baby was born:)
the exact face she's making right now; her tummy gets so upset at night!
my crazy munchkins

"Mimi -Papa -Plane!"

2008-12-09T01:40:00.000-08:00

My folks just got back from Hawaii (poor things) and we picked them up from the airport which has given Max the impression that when we drop people off there and say they're getting on a plane - they stay on that plane until we pick them back up! it makes sense! So, needless to say, they just got back from a 10 day flight!

Christmastime is Here!

2008-12-09T01:20:00.000-08:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year! This is our first time having a tree and lights on the house in years! I love it! Max decorated his own tree and can't get enough of the twinkle lights - it's so much more magical having a kid who's seeing it for the first time! and Mia's our little Christmas present come early. It's finally winter here, too - seriously, it was like 75-80 till a few weeks ago! Now, we're freezing in the 50's!!! I love the lights, the music, the traditions...sigh..Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Happy Birthday, Baby!

2008-12-09T00:59:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous Ugly Christmas Sweater 27th Birthday Party for James and it was so funny! James was surprsied with the Guitar Hero for the Wii with the guitar, drums and microphone! The boys rocked out into the wee hours (ha - wii hours ;)It was so fun to have a party at our house - we can finally host things and we love it! James' favorite thing is to be surrounded by our friends and family and hang out - so that's what we did! I love you, Sweetie! You're the best Hubby and Father to our kids that I could dream of! Thanks for picking me to share your life with - what a fun ride it's been!I know this is going to be your best year yet! Love - your Girl. Birthday Boy!

Lookin' good!
Ang and Vincent won "best ugly sweater" - Vincent had a gingerbread house on his that opened up and had candy canes inside! It was Awesome! Angela made them!!!

Thanksgiving!

2008-12-09T00:45:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Thanksgiving! and this year it was at our house! I guess we're really adults now! There were several family members missing this year, so it was smaller - but we had a wonderful day! Grandma Ellen was visiting from Arizona and it was so nice to have her home! James did the Turkey all by himself and it was Fabulous! Yes, he does make good babies, too! So funny, if you look closely in the group picture of everyone, it looks like his shirt says "I Make Good ---and he's holding the platter of Turkey; so yes, he makes good turkey, too! I have SO much to be thankful for - but I just can't get over the fairytale I'm living with my 2 beautiful children and husband, surrounded by our parents and loved ones in our dream home - Thank you, Jesus for your favor!

Washington!

2008-12-09T00:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm crazy. James and I packed up our energetic 2yr. old and barely 3 wk. old Baby and drove some 13 hours to WA state to stay with our beloved friends Matt and Melody and be in my dear Amy's long-awaited wedding! Max was the ring-bearer and stole the show in his killer tiny tux and announcing that he had to go poo-poo in the middle of the ceremony! fantastic. And I was a one-man band with being in the wedding - ready by 5 a.m., doing Amy's makeup at 6, pictures, singing the communion song, having Max in the wedding - oh, and did I mention I had a Baby 3 weeks prior??? But it was so worth it to be a part of that amazing day and be with the friends we love so much! We love you, our Washington Fam!

My new little Fam - sweet moments

2008-12-09T00:26:00.000-08:00

mia - first weeks, final days of fall

2008-12-09T00:17:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin Patch and other Fabulous Fall things!

2008-12-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

We took Max to the Pumpkin Patch and James hadn't been since His 3rd grade field trip! It was such a fun family day and Mia was only a week old!

Moms!

2008-12-08T10:20:00.000-08:00

My girlfriend Amy is the co-creator of this amazing site for Moms in search of innovative and fun stuff for their lil' peanuts and their families! there's a fun Christmas giveaway going on now that you should check out!
http://i459.photobucket.com/albums/qq314/AmyTiceDesign/12days.gif"/>

M.I.A.!!!!

2008-11-26T00:39:00.000-08:00

missing in action - and yes, Mia!!! So, we just got back from a 10 day trip to Washington, where I was in my girlfriend's wedding and it was wonderful! The kids did great and it was wonderful to see our friends - and we're happy to be back home, too! will post pictures of the trip soon! I've got some catching up to do! Mia's a month old and is doing great! James just went back to work(after 5 fabulous weeks!!) and I'm figuring out life with 2! I love it! Will write more later!

crazy kids!

2008-11-26T00:30:00.000-08:00

2008-11-10T23:57:00.000-08:00

Due date - tomorrow!

2008-10-27T23:19:00.000-07:00

How funny is that - that my due date is tomorrow and we were in the hospital exactly a week ago with our hours-old Baby Girl! It's been an amazing first week with Miss MiaBella! Okay - so I know I haven't given any detail, so here's some stats for those who've been asking:
She was born at 2:25 p.m. Oct. 20th at 8 lbs 14 oz. (2 oz. smaller than Max) and 20 1/2 inches long. I was induced, got into the hospital early Monday morning, had an AMAZING labor and delivery experience - that ended up with her being born in 2 pushes after I dialated from a 4 to a 10 in an hour! Crazy! The recovery's been so much better than with Max, and she's an incredibly easy, peaceful baby that would almost sleep through the night if I didn't need to feed her (for My sake!)!
We couldn't ask for more! I feel the love of God so strongly that it brings me to tears - I am so blessed and I know it. What an amazing gift from God and I'm so grateful. I am head-over-heels in love with this little girl - she's captured our hearts! Thanks for all your love and sweet support - it means the world!

My Boys!

2008-10-27T23:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to take a minute to tell you what an amazing Hubby I have, along with the coolest little boy ever! James has taken about a month off of work - in which I'm so elated and spoiled with having him around, I don't what I'll do when he goes back! But he has been the world's greatest Dad and Husband - cooking me this incredible breakfast's every morning (Eggs benedict, Banana nut bread - from scratch!) and my favorite desserts including this amazing Key lime pie! and has just taken charge with laundry and dishes and cleaning; and has handled Max and his needs in every way. Max is Loving it as much as I am! Max loves his "sissy" and holds her every day and hasn't acted jealous at all - just into her, kinda like a new pet! So, I just wanted to pay a tribute to the men in my life and how I'm the luckiest Lady in the world!

Baby Love!

2008-10-27T17:52:00.000-07:00

More pre and post Mia! What an amazing support system I had! My family and friends are incredible! Thanks for being there at this amazing time in my life and to welcome my daughter into this world!

MiaBella Kiku Bryan is here!!!!

2008-10-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

Will post more soon! We're doing wonderfully! Thanks for the sweet pics, Danielle!
http://dbryanphoto.blogspot.com/

The Big Day....

2008-10-14T16:25:00.000-07:00

So at my appointment yesterday I found out that I was still dialated to about 2 and 1/2, which I found out the week before when I went to the hospital because they thought I was leaking amniotic fluid - lovely,and the results from my ultrasound...they say she's about 9 lbs. Yes, already!!! and that was last week! yikes! So, I'm scheduled to be induced on Monday, Oct. 20th!!! So, obviously - I know it can happen at any time, but to know that in 6 days or less I will meet my Baby Girl - I'm so excited! and that there's an end in sight! I'm feeling pretty good, just not able to do a lot - well, I'm still doing a lot, but not as mobile! So soon!!!!

Weddings, Apple Hill, Roseville, Parties...oh and being dialated to a 2 1/2 in the meantime!!!

2008-10-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Well, laying low isn't exactly what I've been doing - I just can't help it! I had my last wedding on Saturday - thank God!!! Done till next spring! My body is definitely done working any more! So this last week I went out of town like 5 times, took my Dad to the airport, took Max to Apple Hill with Mom and Auntie Kathy, saw a Broadway show in Sac, went to a dress-up party, visited the Rock and Hav and Deb and our crew of kids, and finished my last wedding out of town! Phew! Today I just finished my last "project" (well, maybe) and decorated for Fall - so, I'm ready, right?!?!
Beautiful Bride!
Max's face here kills me!!!

Yes, there are several Giant "pumpkins" in this picture! I had no idea we were making the same face!

Tuckered out from a long day

Leslie's 50th Birthday - appearances by Brangelina!

2008-10-14T15:47:00.000-07:00

Waiting for Mia...

2008-10-07T23:15:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to put her in here.

"active" is an understatement - she's acrobatic!!!

So...tomorrow I have an ultrasound to see how big this "little" girl is - and based on that, to avoid a c-section, I might have the option of being induced in a week or so. So, I'm not super-anxious to get her out or not be pregnant - I'm not feeling impatient; I'm just crazy uncomfortable! Not sleeping, constant Braxton hicks, cramping, swelling - and I just don't know if I could do another full 3 weeks of this insanity! I made it through the 2 weddings this last weekend, with nothing short of excruciating pain and thinking I was going into labor by the end of the night, but - hey, I made it!!! and in the mean time, I'm still getting lots done! So, we'll see....I'll keep y'all updated. Pray that I can get some sleep!!!

Woo hoo!

2008-10-03T10:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm a nesting freak - I've been organizing my office, all my files and paperwork, all the closets, the Baby's room, my entire garage, and I've just washed and put away all of Mia's clothes!!! and I feel like I could go into labor at any second! So, with all that compulsive drive, my body's revolting and making me pay for overdoing it. So, I'm trying to lay low - especially because I've got 2 big weddings to do makeup for out of town tomorrow, and I'm so nervous that my water will break right in the middle of it all! so pray for me!!!! Oh, and here's some wonderful shots of my amazing shower by the infamous Danielle Bryan! What a party for the princess!!!

My Hero!
Can you believe 2 years ago, we had no kids!?!? Now there'll be 6!
Yes, Bree's husband Dan - made the Strawberry Jam!!! How sweet is that?!?!

Baby Shower Blessings!

2008-09-30T15:50:00.001-07:00

Check out: http://www.weddingtulle.blogspot.com for full details on my amazing Baby shower - courtesy of Bree and Carey, my Lovelies who threw me the most fabulous party I could've imagined! Here's some pics of the details, more to come! I am So blessed and this Baby Girl is already So loved!!! Thanks everyone!
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a rare moment...

2008-09-27T22:14:00.000-07:00

Janessa - an awesome photographer, was at my house photographing a bride that I was doing makeup for and Max passed out on the coach and she captured it beautifully!

Moving and Shaking!

2008-09-25T10:23:00.000-07:00

Some more fabulous shots by Danielle! I'm so excited, I'm going to a worship conference tonight and having a girl's night away (shopping, eating out, worship - all my favorite things!), and then my shower's on Sunday! yahooooo!!! Oh, and by the way - I'm dialated to a one!!! Pretty exciting! I'm definiely on the homestretch! She's on her way!

Countdown!

2008-09-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

YAY! I finally finished Mia's room!!! I'm so happy with how it turned out, too! Isn't the crib just the sweetest?!? So, when I started to think about how soon she was going to be here - (5 weeks! or less?) and that if I had her early I was so not ready; I kinda panicked!!! So, I made all these lists of things to do to get my house, her room, and my life organized so I'd be "ready." And at 2 in the morning I finally finished organizing the last of my bills and paperwork, organized all of Max's toys and finished my office! Phew! and this morning I had another wedding to do makeup for, too! (only 3 more before Baby!) James has been awesome in helping me and Max isn't as much helpful - but he's been awesome, nonetheless! I'm totally enjoying my last bit of time alone with him and still am loving being pregnant (i know, i'm nuts), but cannot wait to meet this Baby Girl!

Maternity Shots!

2008-09-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

Sneak peak! Danielle and I had a blast - isn't she amazing!?!?

go to her site to see more! http://dbryanphoto.blogspot.com/

presents!

2008-09-18T08:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, he got a full drum set for his birthday! oh, the fun! He Loves it!!! and is actually really good, too! and he got lots of tools, too! Auntie Noelle made Nemo rice krispies, too - so cute

Birthday Party!

2008-09-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

Gymnastics and Nemo and Friends - does it get any better than this?

Sea Ranch!

2008-09-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

We went to the coast for a wedding that I had to do makeup for and met up with Gabe and Andrea and Lindsey-Lu! We had a great time and it was a perfect little getaway without kids, before Miss Mia arrives! I did makeup for 7 hours and the seriously windy 5 hour drive kicked my butt and I don't think the Baby was thrilled, either - but the time spent together away and with Gabe and Andrea made it so worth it!<

and our munchkins of course!

Cheese!

2008-09-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

Oh, this child makes me laugh!!! Every day it's something new! He loves to make funny faces and this is his new "smile" and he says "happy", because I make him show me his smile and say I'm happy -particularly when he's not! It's hilarious!

Happy Birthday Maximillian!!!!

2008-09-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

You're 2 and we can hardly believe what a big boy you are!!!! You are the love of our lives and we just know you're going to be the Best Big Brother, ever!!! You are our sunshine - We love you, Buddy!

Bon Voyage, Mimi and Poppa!

2008-09-10T22:47:00.000-07:00

So, tomorrow my folks leave for Denmark for a couple weeks - so I thought I pay a tribute to the most amazing grandparents, ever! What am I going to do without my babysitters?!? Max is going to go through withdrawls! Here's some pictures from the Farmer's Market that my Dad takes Max to every Sat. where he gets balloon animals, and our trips to Roseville complete with a train ride at the new shopping center - the Fountains! Have a fabulous time, you two! We'll miss you greatly - thank you for all your help, support, and unconditional love; and being such a consistent anchor in Max's life! Have fun!

Another getaway!

2008-09-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

So, I'll write about the pictures I posted of Tahoe later - but all in all - we had a fantastic vacation with much needed family time! Now, James and I are off to the coast where I have a wedding to do makeup for and we're meeting up with Gabe and Andrea Foster, too! We're so excited! We've never been to the coast together! So, more pictures when I get back! oh, and we're supposed to have renters move in next week - pray that it goes through!

Almost 33 weeks!?!?

2008-09-04T15:47:00.000-07:00

So, yeah - 7 weeks left!?!? Crazy! Feeling good - just definitely in that uncomfortable, heart-burn, leg cramping, tired, and get all around gi-normous stage! But - it's been a great pregnancy so far, it's just the home stretch now. I can't believe I'm going to be holding my little MiaBella in weeks! We put the crib up this week - it's all coming together!

So I get sleepy a lot!

friends in Tahoe

2008-09-04T15:42:00.000-07:00

Rumikub - Tahoe Tradition!

2008-09-02T12:51:00.000-07:00

more Tahoe fun!

2008-09-01T18:48:00.000-07:00

The Beach, fishing, relaxing, playing and eating - the good life!

Tahoe!!!

2008-08-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be back in 105 degrees after leaving a miserable high of 75 every day!!!(thick sarcasm)

And we're off again!

2008-08-15T23:00:00.000-07:00

Leaving in the morning for Ta-hoe!!! So ready! it's been so stinkin' hot, too! So, see y'all in a week or so!
And... some pictures of what we've been up to: yes, I've been up to getting larger by the second, but I'm lovin' it! This pregnancy has flown by - I can't believe I'm almost 30 weeks - with only 10 left!!! So exciting! Max is keeping us all on our toes and it's never a dull moment with my child around - I'm loving his little (or should I say huge) personality that keeps me laughing everyday! He goes to gymnastics twice a week and I take a Pilates class 3 times a week - so we're both staying very active! And here's some more pictures of the house as it's coming along. I'm in love with this house and we're working on the backyard now - it's all coming together and I know we'll be here for a very long time. Now, if only we could get the other house taken care of...

Curious George!

bleck...

2008-08-14T23:28:00.000-07:00

So, I've just spent the last 2 days in bed being on the verge of puking or passing out...yuck. But, it made me realize that I've had a great pregnancy and have packed up my old house, moved, unpacked painted and decorated the new house, chased around the craziest toddler I know, continued my business doing weddings every single weekend - without batting an eye. Some women feel like they're going to hurl or faint their whole pregnancy, so I'm pretty lucky and I realize that. We just poured concrete in the back yard and it's so exciting for that part of our new house to be coming together! and even more exciting is that on Saturday we're headed out to Tahoe (to do makeup for a wedding first - then) for a weeklong family vacation! My folks and James and Max and I will spend a week in Tahoe together for the first time since we lost my family's cabin 3 years ago! I'm SO excited! So, I'll post pictures soon, but just wanted to give y'all an update!

Renter needed!

2008-08-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

Sad, sad news - our renter just fell through - a week before she was supposed to move in! aaah! so, anyways, if anyone knows anyone - we need to get someone in this house!!! 6 months of 2 house payments - Lord help us! Well, He is, actually. But keep us in your prayers!

sale stuff!

2008-08-05T17:19:00.000-07:00

here's a couple pics of the stuff we're selling. i'll give you prices and details if you're interested. you can call me too - 530-301-7088. Here's the craiglist posting link:
http://sacramento.craigslist.org/hsh/785757970.html

Back in Business!

2008-08-04T16:30:00.000-07:00

We're baaack!!! Melissa let me borrow her camera (thank you so much!!!) and I just bought one today, so...yahoooo!!! and boy, oh boy - do i have lots to show you! Since I got back from WA, I've finished painting the Baby's room, the family room, hung a million pictures, made an IKEA trip and my Dad and James put tons of furniture together, finished putting Max's room together, added the finishing touches to the kids bathroom, got my office furnished and the formal living room and dining room put together!!!! phew! and then did a wedding in Napa on Sat. for 13 people!!! I'm Soooo tired! But SO happy about my house! Here's pics from the living room/family room - I'll post the other rooms soon! Oh, and if anyone's interested or knows of anyone who needs a riding lawnmower, a hot tub, a sleep number bed, a new dryer - let me know!!! We're trying to sell it all on craig's list before our renter!!!!

Mee-mo Bathroom

2008-08-04T15:53:00.000-07:00

Max's favorite fish, Nemo,(Mee-mo is his name in our house) has been chosen to cover the kids' bathroom and I love how it turned out! It's so fun and bright and Max is obsessed with the bubbles! If you come over to our house, he'll run upstairs and show you all the bubbles on the wall and try to pop them. It was hard to get a good angle, but you get the idea. Bubbles by Leslie of course!

Buckaroo's Room

2008-08-04T15:48:00.000-07:00

Max LOVES his cowboy room - every morning he wakes up, he says - "Mama, rope! nice! How-wee" That's how he says Howdy - which will probably be the first word he spells now! It's so great seeing it all put together, because it's exactly what I've had in my mind for years!!! It's a dream come true!

Introducing....MiaBella's Bedroom!

2008-08-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, we've decided on a name for the princess...well, actually I decided when I was 13, when I nannied a little girl with that name and fell in love with it! It means "My Beautiful One" in Italian, and in Hebrew "Mia" means "wished for" - and is she ever!!! So, all we need to do is set up the crib and it's ready for her!!! Isn't the wall painting amazing!?!? Leslie - who I've dubbed my "Art Angel" has dedicated hours of her talent and heart to me this last week (and years before that!) to finish these projects in my house and lend her phenomenal abilities to me and I couldn't be more grateful! well, I couldn't have done it without her, that's for sure! Thank you Lesloooo!!!!

7 month belly! She's smelling the paint

Our suite!

2008-08-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

This was actually the first thing done, since we painted it first. I bought the comforter and did my room based on that. My bathroom has that spa feeling and I heart our walk-in closet! I've always done reds and golds, so the blue and brown theme was a total change for me and i love it!

aaaahhh! Blogging Block!

2008-07-30T23:58:00.001-07:00

I lost my camera!!! booohooo! So I have no pictures of Tahoe or WA or the bajillion weddings I've been doing!!! But I'll get some pictures soon (somehow)and reveal my house transformation! I've been working for a week now on painting and decorating and hanging pictures, etc. and I'm so in love with this house! Max's room is done and I bought the baby's crib today! can't wait to put her room altogether! Oh! and Praise God - we got a renter for our house!!! 6 months of 2 house payments...ouch! so, there's hope! Keep you posted!

Vacation!

2008-07-11T22:14:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I'm leaving for Tahoe after I do makeup for a wedding in the morning, and then I have a wedding in Tahoe to do early Sunday morning - and then, a break! Tahoe is such a huge part of my childhood, I look forward to it so much and getting to see Max enjoy it, too! Then, on Wednesday, I'm headed off to WA state to visit friends for a week and do a girlfriend's makeup for her wedding. So, won't be blogging for a bit. It's been a stressful week to say the least, and my body's not handling it very well - so I'm looking forward to some rejuvenation and needed girl time. ;) Hasta!
Max in Tahoe last year - he's gonna enjoy it so much more this year!

Some pics from the 4th

painting party!

2008-07-09T16:05:00.000-07:00

My 6 month belly that blended in with the wall!

So my dear friend Leslie and I (oh and the fabulous Joe - who was dedicated to the pink room!)painted Max's room and the Baby's room - along with the bathroom! It looks amazing! I'll post more of the finished product! So excited!

recovery

2008-07-01T01:29:00.000-07:00

It's been an interesting week - didn't really get a chance to settle in from our trip since I wounded myself and had to stay with my folks for a few days because i couldn't go up the stairs at my house. And my dad is recovering from having a cyst removed from his vocal cords and not being able to talk for a couple weeks (so peaceful and quiet around here, though ;) - so, my poor mom has been Nurse Nancy! Getting injured isn't the most convenient thing with a 2 year old and being about 6 months pregnant! But, i've recovered fine - and even did a wedding and sang for worship over the weekend! We're now trying to rent out our old house since it fell out of escrow and that's stressful - but we trust the Lord! I'm currently getting excited about decorating the baby's room!

more vegas pics!

2008-07-01T01:16:00.000-07:00

this was an awesome sushi bar - inside one of the resort's atriums

James and Cameron Diaz!

this is where James dropped me off for a little shopping before we had to go!
this is the ceiling inside the shopping center - it changes throughout the day to make you feel like it's totally outside!
and this is every makeup artist's candy store: the MAC store in Caesar's Palace!
I wore him out!

Home, sweet crazy home!

2008-06-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

We're baa-ack! and we had a fabulous time in Vegas! Although it was a blazing 108 most of the time - we ended up staying at Mandalay Bay and hanging out at the pool for a couple days! We saw a phenomenal Cirque du Soleil show and enjoyed just getting away and being together! It's been crazy since we got home - James got called out the next morning and after he got home on Monday I fell and cut my ankle open and had to go to Urgent Care and get stitches! lame!!!! i'm on crutches and everything - so ridiculous! But we had a great little anniversary getaway and missed Max terribly - but he had a Blast at Mimi and Poppa's! I'll most more pictures later!

Hey Baby, let's go to Vegas!

2008-06-17T22:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, we are! To celebrate our 5 year anniversary(June 20th)! yahoooo!!! And this will be our last getaway alone before #2 makes her debut, so we're taking the chance while we can! James just got done working in the fires by Chico and I just finished a huge wedding workload - we are so ready for a break and time together! 5 years! Amazing! Oh, and I put this song on my blog, because we walked down the aisle to it!

Oh, and for those of you wondering - our house situation is on pause right now; we hit a major roadblock in the escrow process and are having to re-evaluate everything. We know if God closes this door - He has a better plan, so we're just choosing to trust in Him for all of it. Have a great week everyone!

Baby Girl - 1/2 way there!

2008-06-17T00:07:00.001-07:00

Well I'm officially at the halfway mark! Feeling great, too! Here's the princess' first close-up, I know it's hard to see but the first is a head/body shot, the second a profile and the third, her tiny little feet! She's wiggling around like crazy and I can feel her everyday, now! We're both nice and healthy!

Da-da's Day!

2008-06-15T23:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day, Da-da, Poppa, and Grandpa Dave!
I couldn't ask for better men to raise my son and who take such amazing care of me, too! Honey - watching you as Max's Dad has opened up a whole new kind of love and admiration for you, I can't wait to see you with our princess! Thank you for working so hard - even on Father's Day (emergency fire damage), to provide for us! And Dad - what an amazing Poppa you are to Max - what an anchor you are to him and my family! Love you!!!!

just in case you missed it!

2008-06-12T16:14:00.000-07:00

So, it didn't seem to work at the time, you have to see this video of Max and I telling James about the new addition on the way - Max was giggling the whole time! I totally started crying in the middle of it! Oh, and don't forget to pause the music on the side before you press play.

weddings and the yuckies!

2008-06-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

okay, so it's been a little crazy - I know, what's new? I did 3 weddings and 1 consultation last weekend (2 out of town), and in the smack middle of it, Max gets the awesome virus that causes explosions out of either ends topped off with a fever! Which of course, he had to share with his Daddy and I! We had a family sick day - all in bed, yesterday! But, today is the first day that Max has eaten since Saturday and we're all feeling better. The weddings went great - couldn't have done them without my mom; and James and Grandpa had Max patrol! Thank God I don't have another wedding till next month! Next week James and I head off to Vegas for a few days to celebrate our 5 year anniversary! Can you believe it?!? Crazy! So there's a quick update and some pictures of my beautiful brides and some tattoo cover magic!

Break-it-down!

2008-06-12T13:11:00.000-07:00

James put on some old-school music and Max jumped up on the bench,took James' hat off, put it on backwards and started bumping away - it was hilarious! Should I be considered that my toddler's a thug?

www.weddingtulle.blogspot.com

2008-06-12T13:02:00.001-07:00

Bree and Carey (my girls) are designing new wedding invitations - check out the blogspot to see their amazing creations - oh and this one was an ode to me! Yes, I'm currently obsessed with black damask print! I love these gals!

Inspired by our friend LeiLani

Since the new designs have been placed into motion, one of our closest friends (we would consider her a sister!) has been begging us to design an invitation with this black and white damask pattern. I added a touch a of tiffany blue to give it a little color (plus she just treated herself to a new tiffany bracelet!) So in honor of our dear friend, LeiLani Bryan who is an amazing mother, wife, friend and make up artist this is for you! If you are a bride seeking for a make up artist, please check out Makeup by LeiLani

Miracles Abound!

2008-06-01T23:42:00.000-07:00

Memories of our old house! We had 4 good years here, complete with 2 cats, 2 dogs, 2 goats, MAX, an acre 1/2 and years of non-stop remodeling! Current house situation at the bottom of this post.<

Okay, so some of you know this, but we put our old house on the market last November and hadn't had any luck in selling it, but decided to go ahead and move into our new house and have faith that it would sell or rent and we'd be fine. Well, after making about 4 months of 2 house payments - it's been pretty intense, but God has provided in mind-blowing ways that would take too long to list. Our house in now in escrow and should close in a couple weeks - we've just needed to come up with a lot of money at the time of closing, and another provision just came yesterday that moves me to tears!!! God is so good! We're down to days and I know that God's going to give us all we need, even if it's the day before it's due and I'm so excited to see what He does! So, pray this through with me and I can't wait to tell you all how our prayers were answered beyond our wildest dreams! I'll keep you posted!

Big Plans for the Summer!

2008-06-01T00:18:00.000-07:00

yep, we're living in my folks' pool. This Mama likes to float!

Funny Faces

2008-06-01T00:07:00.000-07:00

My child cracks me up! every day - seriously, always something zany and funny and he's such a boy, it kills me! these are just a few of his crazy moments in about a week. I love this stage, he's my little buddy that makes me laugh; although it's wiping me out just as much too!!!

New Fam Photos!

2008-05-20T00:06:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day presents - we took this on my birthday at the end of a long day, so it's amazing the boys are smiling at all! It was crazy! But I'm happy how they turned out! Doesn't Max look old in the last picture?!?!? Like it's his kindergarten pic or something (if he was bald!)

Who's hiding in there????

2008-05-13T06:11:00.000-07:00

So, my very favorite birthday present was finding out that we're having a baby.....GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The ultrasound tech couldn't find her for awhile - she was being shy, so I had to walk around and shake things up a bit, then I came back and he was looking around again for awhile, and then I asked him, "do you have any idea?" and he was like, "yeah, it's totally a girl, I'm just trying to get a good shot for you guys." I instantly started crying and James squeezed my hand so tight - I was so hoping for that but didn't want to be dissappointed, so I was just counting on a boy; needless to say I am beyond ecstatic!!! Oh, and most of you voted girl - so good call!!!
Myspace Layouts

Fishin' Fun!

2008-05-13T05:47:00.000-07:00

So Max had his first fishing trip on Sunday and he loved it! He got his own pole and everything! We caught lots of little fish and had a blast - and I know it's only the beginning, especially with his Daddy and uncles!This was at Big 5, and all by himself - Max went over and picked up a tackle box and a fishing pole and was walking around the store - it was so funny!
Fishing partner for life
This picture kills me - Cheryl and Max's faces are so funny! The fish has just jumped and sprayed Max!

Birthday Mother's Day Weekend!

2008-05-12T17:23:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful birthday - complete with breakfast at Mimi's Cafe (my fav!), an ultrasound (more on that later!), shopping with James - we haven't had time together in months!, lunch with family and a few friends, family pictures and more shopping! Full of all my favorite things! I'm so blessed! Mother's Day was great, too! Went to church, had lunch at my parents - the best restaraunt ever! then went fishing with Cheryl and the boys! What a weekend!

Buble'!!!!!

2008-05-05T19:51:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! Yesterday I went and saw Michael Buble' in concert and had the time of my life! I adore everything about that era of music, and the style and class - My Grandparents introduced me to Ella Fitzgerald, Sinatra - all the good stuff and I've been in love with that music ever since! And he was such a great performer with an amazing 20-piece live band - oh, it was a blast!!! An early b-day present for me!
Oh, and there was this amazing acapella group that opened for him - all acapella - it was the most phenomenal thing I've ever heard! Paste these links in your browser to see videos of them, or just go to You tube and put in "wall of sound" - they're called Naturally 7. They were totally Christian too! Awesome!
http://youtube.com/watch?v=z5MkNOXSdkA
http://youtube.com/watch?v=B6cneZW0hcE

excited!

2008-05-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

Sooo...next Saturday (My B-day!),we go in to find out what we're having!!! Hopefully it'll be a baby!!! I'm soooo excited, and can't believe I'm 4 months already!Isn't that the best birthday present ever?!?! I have no idea, but it's fun wondering if Max will have a brother or sister! What do you guys think????

Sunny Days! Lovin' it!

2008-04-28T01:04:00.000-07:00

80's to 90's! So nice! We took advantage of it!

Best Park Playmate! Poppa!

Just BBQ-ing au natural!

last week

2008-04-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

So, just started to get back on my feet - in time to do another wedding tomorrow! Last Friday I took Max to Fairy Tale Town and he Loved it! it's so fun taking him on outings like that - to see his elation and discovery of new things - he's definitely my little buddy! James had a blast with him in the ball pit, too! and it fits great in our formal living room! He's such a good Dad - even though he's only had 1 day off in 40 days (can you believe that?!?, he always makes time to play with Max when he gets home no matter how tired he isyeah, i'm cute!

!
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.a few of the girls from Saturday

Say cheese!!!

Boy time

sick...again

2008-04-22T14:36:00.001-07:00

yep. that's right. On Friday I had the worst allergy day ever, ending up throwing out my back from sneezing and coughing, couldn't move the next day, had a fever and got a sinus infection - oh, and I had to makeup for an out of town wedding that same day. Then of course Max wakes up on Sunday with a 103 fever! Of course he got it from me! Perfect! and being pregnant makes it way easier to deal with, too...ugh. i'll be back in commisssion soon.

zoo

2008-04-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

giant ant eater!

my little monkey!
My hard-working Hubby!
Yeah! I love the zoo! Max has been so under the weather, we thought that it'd be good for him to just get out!!! and, how sweet are my folks - it's their 15 year wedding anniversary (amazing!) and instead of going out, they wanted to take Max to the zoo - for their anniversary! Incredible Grandparents!!! and I talked Auntie Carey into coming (she'll love the snake mask picture I put up of her!), she's always game! I was just thrilled to get out of the house! This is the first weekend since February that I haven't had a wedding or a consultation! and tomorrow will be James' first day off in 22 days!!! and his last until May! Poor Guy! I'm SO proud of him and grateful for all his hard work!

Before and Afters!

2008-04-11T00:41:00.000-07:00

These are some fun snapshots of what a difference a little paint makes! this was a sweet little wedding I did last weekend, the bride looked like a Princess! She's a little 4'11 Romanian gal and she looked like Audrey Hepburn from Roman Holiday!

sunny days!

2008-04-11T00:35:00.000-07:00

yes, he's in the trunk; he was on sale!
that face says it all - my sickie buddy!

Max loves his Mimi!
kicking it with Auntie Kathy!
Today was Gorgeous! and we had to get out in it! Max has been cooped up inside, since he'd been having severe asthma attacks and had to go on a little breathing treatment and steroids! yuck! and he's been puking and having horrible diarrhea this week....poor baby, when he gets hit, he gets hit hard. So, needless to say, between that, being sick myself, pregnant and trying to get settled in - the 10 consultations a week I've been averaging have been wiping me out!!!! But today my mom and my Auntie Kathy came to the rescue and we got lots done in the house and went shopping for the fun stuff at Target and even got California Yogurt and watched August Rush! what a good day!!!

Update

2008-04-10T00:13:00.000-07:00

Had my first Dr.'s appointment this week and it went great! I had an ultrasound and James got to be there - amazing how it just pops up on the screen and there's this tiny perfect little baby wiggling around in there (well, mine are always wiggling - hmmm....is it me?)! And, yes, there's only one - although, I'll have to answer the twins question frequently because of my petite size...fun. But I'm actually 11 weeks and due Oct. 28th! So, I'm thinking I'll have to cancel the wedding I was scheduled to do on the 25th...yeah - probably a little much. I can't believe I'll be in my second trimester already! Yahoo!

Baby Bump???

2008-04-04T15:11:00.000-07:00

Good gracious! I've heard the second time around it happens faster, but are you kidding me?!!? I'm hoping there's a couple of them in there just to make sense of this, but, i'm afraid not. It happened almost as simultaneous as taking the test, watching the "pregnant" sign appear as the button popped off my jeans!!!! Seriously crazy!!! at least we bypassed the whole ""in-between" stage, where you don't look pregnant you just look thick! Bring on the Belly!!!!

9 weeks!

2008-03-28T22:53:00.000-07:00

For those of you who asked, I'm 9 weeks along, due the first week of November! Yes, an election day baby. I can't wait to be out of the exhausted phase and the unpacking phase! But, I'm so thrilled to be carrying life again and chasing around my 18 month-old love of my life. Can't wait for my first Dr.'s appointment next week! Oh, this is what Baby's looking like about now...

Guess what???..................

2008-03-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

I'm...the evidence
My Boys, right after I told James
Big Brother!
Prego!
yep, it's true! So, I've been trying to be more careful this time around and not telling everyone right away (because of my last miscarriage and all), but it's a secret that my quickly protruding belly is giving away all by itself! Seriously!!! I'll post pictures of this crazy phenomenon soon! I feel good -I've just been exhausted with moving and Max and makeup consults non-stop! But I'm healthy! and so is my appetite!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2008-03-18T00:12:00.000-07:00

Love, the O'Bryans!!!

Doesn't he look like a different baby? Such a fat face he had!!!