Friday, November 30, 2012

Getting Crafty with Advent Calendars

Thanks to one of my favorite mom blogs, 24/7 MOMS, the girls had fun this afternoon making a paper chain advent calendar. Our nanny said it was a super easy, quick project and it only cost $3 to make. The girls picked out  Christmas themed paper from Hobby Lobby earlier this week. I still can't believe tomorrow is Dec. 1.


Sunday, October 21, 2012

Exploring P-town and the Fall Colors

I ask every new person I meet what some of their favorite things are to do in Pueblo. Exploring our hometown is rather fun and leads to some decent adventures. I must admit (sadly) that having lived in Denver since I was six, I stopped exploring it. Everything was so routine, really too routine.

One of Ashlyn's school friend's mom (if you can follow that!) told me about the Nature and Raptor Center down near the Arkansas River. I signed up for the weekly e-newsletter a month or so ago and this past week, it mentioned that fall colors were still pretty good so off we went! We skipped the Raptor Museum this trip, but enjoyed playing on the playground, hiking the trails, and throwing rocks, sticks and whatever else we could find in the Arkansas. A bit of history, the Arkansas River was formerly the border between Mexico and the United States. Next Saturday, the Raptor Center has a Halloween Family Fun Festival from 1- 4 p.m. if you are looking for something to do with your kiddos. 

What should our next day excursion be in Southern Colorado?





Wednesday, August 1, 2012

A night at the ball: "A British Bash"

You know those evenings you just look forward to? The type that leave you sitting on the edge of your seat the day before it happens? Since I was 11, my dad has asked Elizabeth and me to attend an annual Father/Daughter Ball. I think I have missed only two or three over the years. It is one of my dad's favorite events of the year and mine too. We have professional photos to document every year and while our attire and hair styles have become much more fashionable, the memory of the night remains the same!

It is rather sweet to see my handsome dad dressed in his tux. It reminds me of prom night except there is no drama and we can legally drink! We purchases corsages and a boutonniere for each other; Ashlyn's and Keegan's itty bitty corsages are always so stinkin' cute.

Thanks for a memorable evening, dad! Love you always.
















Sunday, July 15, 2012

She isn't so little anymore...


Today, we celebrated a very special four-year-olds birthday. It was the first time we have all been together as a family on Ashlyn's actual birthday. Usually I skirt the kids off to San Diego to escape Shawn's member/guest tournament every July, but alas a change in Shawn's job and a move to Pueblo meant there was no trip this year.

We had the "bestest day" (to borrow a quote from Ashlyn) and I didn't think twice about the beach or the crashing waves (ok, maybe just once!). We skipped a birthday party this year and spent the day blowing bubbles, looking for shells at Rock Canyon Swim Beach at the Pueblo Reservoir and skipping rocks.

Ashlyn made out like a bandit for her birthday - as she always does - and between new wheels, a Hello Kitty Umbrella and a new wardrobe, she is one happy camper! We are headed back to Denver tomorrow and she can't wait to have cupcakes with her friends at Annie's (her old daycare) on Tuesday. Happy birthday to our amazing little girl - we love you so much.




 We opened and read every single card before diving into the presents.

Strawberry blond or blond? Hair color changes weekly!



 A tad big, but she will grow into it!

We missed our standard birthday cake from Mulberry's. This one didn't compare.

Monday, July 2, 2012

We survived our move and June!

What a long two months! Living apart from Shawn during April and May was no easy task. From renting our house to finding a house for us in Pueblo to hiring movers to packing the house to moving, I was exhausted. We were so appreciate of all the extra help from family and friends and can't say thank you enough.

Thankfully my tears have been far and few. I certainly have my "just missing Denver life moments," but my decision to slow down at work was a good one. For those that know me well you will find this hard to believe, but I am embracing spontaneity and enjoying the laid back life in Pueblo. Love to you all!

Our mover's truck broke down the day of our move, but they were able to rent two 20 foot trucks 
(and found a third at the last minute).

When it isn't 100 degrees plus in Pueblo, the girls love spending time in the backyard 
pulling leaves from all the trees, blowing bubbles and digging in mud. 

Visited a dear friends cabin in Westcliffe and enjoyed a morning on the lake!

 The two (land driving only) captains!

A hidden gem in Pueblo - City Park rides. 
Open Memorial Day through Labor Day and never crowded. 



 The girls are so stylish!

 Our nanny found these women-sized sunglasses at the Riverwalk. Ashlyn begged her for them; I laugh everytime she wears them. It is so hard not to.

Final night of Shawn's member/guest and he was still standing upright - with a mohawk. Our new favorite summer drink is a Moscow Mule.