Trip to AZ

This year we spent New Years with my parents in Phoenix. We had a lovely time but let's just say it will be long while before I travel with two little ones at the holidays making that East to West trip again. Phew!
The purpose for our visit was to celebrate my mother's 6oth birthday. And mom, if you are reading this, don't be upset that I put your age here for the world to see. You ROCKED 60 like nobody's business. You look amazing, and I am so proud of you.
Of course, what is a trip to Gramma and PopPop's at Christmas time without presents? We all got plenty spoiled. Thank you everyone!
I also got to visit with some of my dearest girlfriends from college. I didn't get to see everyone on my list but I am keeping my fingers cross for my next visit.
Enjoy the photos below!
Checking out the lights in Sedona, AZ

Jon's sister Keri and her fiance "Mr. Kenny" joined us too! So fun!

Mom with her "girls" on her birthday

Carter after he realized he at Rattlesnake. Thanks PopPop!

Helping Gramma blow out her candles.

Carter and Moira "sharing" their new microphone. Donny and Marie eat your heart out!

 Moira and Gramma

Ringing in the New Year with some of my besties!

My girls with their kiddos!

Moira's First Pedi!

I realize it is a bit fuzzy but our sweet baby girl's toes are PINK! Her Auntie Meg asked if she could have the honor and I thought it would be super sweet. She looked darling! Gramma explained to Moira, who was wriggling around in the firm embrace of Gramma's arms, that "Beauty is pain". I smiled because that was the same mantra my mom sang to me as she shoved bobby pins into my scalp before dance recitals.  We had to keep her from wriggling out of Gramma's arms afterward so she wouldn't crawl around and (gasp!) smudge her pedi.

Daddy was a little surprised and not too thrilled but I assured him the paint would come off ....someday. Carter exclaimed that her toes "look beauutiful!" And I love catching Moira peeking at her toes. They are especially distracting at diaper-changing time.

Taking a moment to remember my blessings

As the New Year dawns, we all seem challenged to think about what we want to change about ourselves. While change is good, I was recently reminded to be thankful for what I already have. I know, some of you are thinking, "Ah, Mariah, Thanksgiving was a few months ago...get with it!".
Just the other day I received a delightful email from my mother-in-law. She attached something she had found that made her think of me. In my hurried, ultra-busy, "super-important" life, I glanced at the length, sighed and decided to read it when I had "more time". Well, later today I had "more time" (a mistake I am sure but there it was so I TOOK it!). Once I read it I was immediately humbled. I have attached it below to share with you. I hope it touches your heart as it did mine.
It made me realize that we don't ALWAYS have to change - ourselves or our children. This year I am choosing to accept. I will accept my children for who they are: gifts created by God. I will accept myself for who I am: loved and forgiven but most importantly, created for His purpose. I will accept others for who they are: children of God.
Enjoy!
"What is a girl?"
"What is a boy?"

Happy New Year!

I wanted to jump on and wish everyone a very blessed new year in 2010. We have just returned from a wonderful trip celebrating my mother for her 6oth birthday. I couldn't be more honored to have her as my mother. She totally rocked 2009 out and I can't wait to see what she and the rest of us do in 2010.
One thing I have learned this year is that it is NEVER too late to make a change. It is my prayer that I search my heart for what I truly desire and I intend to go after it this year. It doesn't matter if I only take baby steps or I don't get too far. All that matters is that I am on the path. I want to keep my eyes and heart on God and that is an excellent place to be.
May you find peace and joy this coming year and know that you are dearly loved.

Pictures soon!

Merry Christmas!

A Christmas miracle! My two babes are smiling for a Christmas morning photo! I can not believe it! I told Jon, begged Jon, pleaded with him, "PLEASE can we get one photo before the kids open their gifts - I don't care if Carter is kicking and screaming and we are hanging Moira by her toes! I just want one!" Miracle of miracles, everyone was amenable. 

Carter was so excited that Santa came and filled his stocking with among other things, a belt, colored pencils and tape(!).

 

What can I say? My kid loves school supplies!  He was impressed that Santa left the bell he had been asking for and left a note (from Polar Express). I love that it really does not take much to thrill this kid. Moira was more impressed with Carter's new Batman cave.

 

The kids were very blessed with gifts from Aunties, Grandparents, and Great Grandparents. Thank you so much dear family for loving on our precious little ones. We are so touched and grateful. Enjoy the photos!

O Christmas Tree!

 

Santa brought Carter and Moira a kitchen! Phew, now I can have someone cook ME dinner! ;-)

 

Carter wearing his new Buzz Lightyear wings playing with his Daddy and the new Batcave

 

Merry Christmas!