tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82334324390628781922012-02-06T14:38:30.679-07:00A blog about my goofy family and "starting over" as a wife, step-mom, new mom and person. Along the way, picking up tips on organizing, cleaning, parenting, relationships, budgeting, etc.Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.comBlogger3441100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-18761693611554582462012-02-06T14:30:00.001-07:002012-02-06T14:38:30.691-07:00

Everyone that knows me, knows I love me some football. Unfortunately, Da Bears did not make it to the big game, but Eric's team, the Patriots, manned up and were able to battle it out. We decided to lay low and hang out at the house this year. Danielle and Joe, plus my parents came to watch the men in the tight pants duel it out. Okay, maybe Joe and my dad did not so appreciate that part as much

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-15681352638304457832012-01-23T21:24:00.000-07:002012-01-23T21:24:10.043-07:00

My Mega Monday clean up is finished, my kids are in bed, the dishes are done and the laundry that has been on the bed is actually put away. Can I get an OH YEAH! Now I am sitting on the couch in my favorite Wildcats sweatpants wrapped in my favorite cozy blanket getting ready to watch a movie with my favorite husband. I noticed I haven't blogged in awhile-so I decided tonight is the night! This

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-56758857893987634392012-01-08T16:00:00.000-07:002012-01-08T16:15:58.042-07:00

I was a little bummed that we had nothing planned for New Year's Eve this year. Not that we have ever really done anything since the kids have been born, but for some reason, I felt the need to do something. So I tell my super sweet husband that I want to dress up in fancy clothes, have a fancy dinner and game night and he says, "OK". He left for the afternoon and that gave me some time to get

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-41339027369148630872012-01-07T21:09:00.001-07:002012-01-07T21:09:50.300-07:00

Christmas morning came early. At 7:30 Delaney was ready to go downstairs. The big kids spent the night and we told the littles to go wake Kaylie up- super fun! We went downstairs, the kids completely missed all the present s that took over our living room and went right to where the cookies and milk had been set out for Santa. They were shocked to see that Santa had eaten the cookies and the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-74724704125962510842012-01-01T21:36:00.000-07:002012-01-04T14:30:19.736-07:00

Christmas Eve came outta nowhere. Like for real. As much as I thought I was ready and full on told people that I was totally done shopping and wrapping and ya know, pretending to be Superwoman.... I wasn't. But at a certain point, I knew I could do no more. Christmas Eve morning, Delaney and I went to my mother-in-law's house for our annual baking get together. This was the first year Delaney got

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-51647167569591922992011-12-31T22:16:00.000-07:002011-12-31T22:16:30.399-07:00

Christmas is over- officially. It has been packed away for another year here in the Mikkelson casa. I have to say, I am exhausted. I never knew how tiring it was to be a parent and "do" Christmas. I know I have been a parent now for a few years, BUT this year was different. This year, all 4 kids would be here Christmas morning and the little kids were fully aware of what was happening. Little

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-73873934853165134542011-12-28T20:34:00.001-07:002011-12-28T20:56:54.025-07:00

Each year, we always have a Christmas party with Eric's side of the family. This year it ended up being at our house and we decided to make it a bit different. I realize that ugly sweater parties are not that unusual anymore, but come on, how fun! So it was decided. Ugly sweaters it would be! Our search for the ugliest sweater led us to Savers and Goodwill where we quickly discovered that in

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-30016861007494215932011-12-21T14:40:00.000-07:002011-12-22T14:49:43.929-07:00

Another family tradition that we have established is going to Winterhaven each year. Winterhaven is a wonderful little neighborhood that decorates like crazy. Clark Griswold would be proud. We knew this year would be fun because we had been hearing the kids reactions to some random houses that are decorated in our neighborhood and we couldn't wait to show them! This year, we opted for the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-79851972133870783912011-12-19T10:16:00.003-07:002011-12-19T10:16:57.721-07:00

I suddenly realized how long it has been since I have done a post! Christmas is only six measly days away and I am sorry to admit that we are not so much ready yet. I swear it was just Thanksgiving. December has been the busiest month that I can remember. I have had quite a few jewelry shows (which I am grateful for), we've had parties, class, shopping, more parties plus our annual family events

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-20038154873991914672011-11-24T20:42:00.001-07:002011-11-24T21:33:10.766-07:00

The kids are sleeping, the kitchen is clean, Friends is on TV and I am in my sweats. Doesn't get much better than that. We had a lovely Thanksgiving today. The day started off with our traditional Monkey Bread breakfast while we watched the parade. This year, however, I had some help making the monkey bread. The kids did a great job working together! Rapunzel and Spider-man showed up to

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-66236900246345790232011-11-22T21:27:00.001-07:002011-11-22T21:55:36.498-07:00

Tonight we found out what the bundle of joy my little sister is carrying is. Not wanting to be too conventional, Danielle and Joe decided they wanted to have a gender reveal party. A few ideas were thrown around but the box of balloons won. We all gathered at my parent's house tonight for the reveal. We even had Josh on skype or face talk or something like that. We all made our predictions. I

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-47405572662748876782011-11-20T20:38:00.001-07:002011-11-20T21:41:52.424-07:00

Okay so I am not totally giving up on NaBloPoMo, although the idea of 30 posts in 30 days kinda went out the window. Life happens, ya know? I am exhausted. This weekend went by in a blink of an eye.  Friday night I got to visit my friend, Anabelle, in the hospital with Ami, Mary and Brinley! Anabelle's water had broken (she was due Jan. 8th so this was a huge shock) and we went to hang out with

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-89701364556581070322011-11-18T22:11:00.001-07:002011-11-18T22:23:47.148-07:00

I have nothing interesting to say tonight. I have ideas for posts, but tonight I just don't have it in me. Today involved Target, Michaels, refereeing, visiting a dear friend in the hospital, stories in bed and finally vegging out on the couch with the hubs. I know, I suck.... and I am sure that my mom is the only one who will be bummed, so I am not sure why I care so much, but I do. So, that

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-67360125650696123232011-11-17T22:14:00.001-07:002011-11-17T22:47:48.750-07:00

I just got home from grocery shopping (at 9:45 pm) and I am exhausted. It takes me awhile to prepare my list, my coupons, etc. I usually go at night so that I don't have to bring the kids and I can take my time. Tonight I knew it was going to take awhile since I had a ton of stuff on my list. The whole time I was thinking how annoyed I was with all the people in the store and the fact that the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-52282433840766210922011-11-16T21:19:00.001-07:002011-11-16T22:12:21.152-07:00

We are taking Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University at our church. The class is 13 weeks long- we meet for two hours once a week. The kids love when we have class. As soon as we pull up to church on Wednesday evenings, they are itching to get out of the car. They literally run to their class, which  makes my heart soar and puts my mind at ease so I can easily focus on what Dave is saying.

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-23392716095883344582011-11-15T18:11:00.001-07:002011-11-15T18:39:45.562-07:00

Anyone that had met my kids, know that they are not shy. They talk to anyone and everyone. Walking thorough Costco sometimes feels like we are in a parade because Delaney and Brody both say hello and wave to everyone they see. I am so happy that is their personality. I would hate for them to clam up anytime someone talks to them. Now don't get me wrong, Brody is a funny, funny little man, but

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-6590001869434051572011-11-14T19:32:00.001-07:002011-11-14T22:41:47.296-07:00

So this menu takes us all the way until Thanksgiving! I am doing all my shopping on Thursday night so that I don't have to go back during the crazy hours! Monday:  Chicken tortilla soup (from Costco), tortillas and salad Tuesday: Mustard Dill Chicken (recipe below) , broccoli with cheese sauce, salad Wednesday: Crock Pot Lasagna Thursday: Chicken with broccoli and garlic sauce Friday: Penne

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-20076705175841605152011-11-13T20:21:00.001-07:002011-11-13T22:15:10.817-07:00

I know that usually it's the little things that mean the most, and I totally agree. However, today it's the little things that are irritating the crap out me. My intention was to start the major organization, overhaul of the house today. See, I want the house in "ready to move" order. No, we are not moving, but I SO WANT TO! In my head, I have a vision of what it means to be ready to move, but I

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-77407855297038889612011-11-12T19:44:00.001-07:002011-11-12T20:10:31.738-07:00

I just couldn't post yesterday- my day consisted of two trips to Target, plus all my normal "duties", plus I made about 35 cupcakes for a super dear friend of mine for her baby shower today. By 11:30- I was wiped and did not have the energy to even go upstairs and get my computer. Today was a fun day! Breakfast out, a beautiful baby shower, followed by a relaxing afternoon. I was freezing near

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-34435135409103814622011-11-10T16:17:00.001-07:002011-11-10T20:00:23.392-07:00

Christmas is BY FAR my most favorite time of the year. I LOVE it! I love the decorations, the smells, the family, the movies, pretty much everything. I am excited for this year! Brody and Delaney are at such a fun age! Just walking through Costco or Target is exciting with them as we saunter through the Christmas aisles. I have been jammin' the Josh Grobin's Christmas CD and the Very Merry

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-13060101828790975752011-11-09T16:00:00.000-07:002011-11-09T16:00:03.171-07:00

To the lady at Michael's who told me she wants to be a stay at home mom and do nothing all day and go shopping whenever I want: Yes, I stay home with my kids. I understand this is a privilege and I don't take it for granted. This decision is also a sacrifice on our behalf. One income=less money. For the record, I DO NOT do nothing all day. I am the dishwasher (multiple times a day), the janitor,

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-83892666859814545552011-11-08T17:36:00.000-07:002011-11-08T17:36:00.221-07:00

Since becoming a mom, I have noticed things that I had never noticed before. Strange things. Unsettling things. Amazing things. And some things I chose to ignore BK (before kids). It's strange that: there is some kind of button on all the toilets in the house that sends out a signal to both the kids and Eric. Instantly, I sit, the button is triggered and "Mommy" or "Nicole" is yelled.

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-45725900829919039492011-11-07T17:11:00.000-07:002011-11-07T17:11:00.218-07:00

It's Monday and I am proud to say that I have had all our meals planned since last Friday! I am trying really hard to stay organized and not spend ANY money on fast food or restaurants. Here is my menu for the week! Monday:  Chicken roll- ups, rice, broccoli with cheese sauce Tuesday:  Cilantro Lime Pesto Tacos, Spanish rice and salad Wednesday:  Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken, Normandy veggies

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-21762569398453225672011-11-06T15:32:00.002-07:002011-11-06T15:34:22.778-07:00

It's strange. I never really thought that I would change. I thought I could change, but didn't really care to. Then one day, after complaining about something, yet again, I realized that maybe I am not happy. Don't get me wrong, I am happy in my marriage, I love Eric to pieces. I love being a mom- my kids are everything to me. I love my family and my friends, but something just wasn't right. One

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-55248037553671139322011-11-05T15:04:00.000-07:002011-11-05T15:04:10.723-07:00

I don't love Halloween.... I don't know that ever have, but I have kids now. Kids that LOVE to dress up! This year was a blast! Delaney really wanted to be Rapunzel. She wanted the long hair and all. Brody didn't care too much, but he loved the Spiderman costume we found at Target so that's what he wore. We got Delaney's dress from the Disney store, not cheap, but necessary. I knew that she would

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-57659652263255162852011-11-04T16:30:00.000-07:002011-11-04T22:26:25.466-07:00

At least that's what I tell myself. Today has been a day. I should have known it was going to be a doozy when the moment I walked downstairs this morning, the playroom was trashed and the kids were screaming at each other (Eric was up with them, don't worry). I am a stay at home mom. Yes, I sell Premier Jewelry and do jewelry shows outside of the house, but my first job, my first priority is

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-23940560058996459532011-11-03T17:10:00.003-07:002011-11-03T17:49:10.186-07:00

Our annual trip to pumpkin happened the day before Halloween again this year. It is so funny how empty it is so close to Halloween. We went to Apple Annie's again, although next year we will be taking the trip to Agua Linda. The first thing we did was immediately get on the hay ride to go pick our pumpkins. Brody saw the tractor the second we pulled up and there was no way we were doing anything

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-91277557909893308902011-11-02T21:32:00.000-07:002011-11-02T21:32:14.980-07:00

Delaney's birthday party was on Sunday, but her actual birthday was the following Thursday.We have made it a tradition to put a bunch of balloons all over the kids rooms while they are sleeping so when they wake up they have a happy moment! Delaney did not disappoint with her reaction. She immediately wanted to know who put them in her room and when I told her that Daddy had done it, she

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-58880547463738097302011-11-01T16:14:00.001-07:002011-11-01T16:14:26.248-07:00

Delaney turned 4 last week and we had a little shin dig for her at the park near our house a week or so ago. I didn't want to have a huge party.... just family and a few friends. We decided to have it at the park again because, well, because I didn't have to clean my house. That thiery is always good, until you realize that you can't set up ANYTHING ahead of time and you have to remember every,

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-56400077516823560912011-10-27T17:44:00.000-07:002011-10-27T17:44:18.775-07:00

4 years ago today I became a Mommy. At exactly 8:23 pm, Delaney Grace Mikkelson made her debut after 2 hours of pushing and about 22 hours of total labor. All 8 lbs., 9 oz of her. Not pleasant, but so worth it. It is absolutely amazing to experience such a blessing. As my mom said,  "I think it's a miracle that 3 people can be in a room, the door is shut, no one else comes in and 4 people leave

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-56698836447099897222011-10-07T16:19:00.002-07:002011-10-07T16:19:50.531-07:00

***OMG long..... don't say I didn't warn ya~ Where did I leave off? Oh yeah, the night before... well I slept in my sister's room since I was not allowed to sleep with Eric. In the morning, a bunch of us went to our favorite place for breakfast and had a relaxing morning. After eating WAY too much, we made our way back to the hotel, changed into our suits, and went down to pool to hang out until

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-5764809066184521322011-10-06T14:36:00.001-07:002011-10-06T14:49:52.771-07:00

5 years. 5 years ago  we were in Rocky Point, Mexico with 70 of our closest friends and family for our wedding! I can hardly believe it has been that long! I decided to post a bunch of pictures from that crazy day because who knows how long I will blog?? So sit back, relax, have a margarita or Tecate and take a walk down memory lane with me, won't you?  Eric and I met in 2004- Meet Your Teacher

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-61274536066651102902011-10-04T21:16:00.000-07:002011-10-04T21:16:16.433-07:00

I seriously can't believe that it is October already! September happened in a blink! October is a CRAZY busy month in the Mikkelson casa. This Friday is our 5 year anniversary, Eric is leaving on a fishing trip next week, I have 6 jewelry shows, our little girl turns 4, there's the annual Pumpkin Pickin' at Apple Annie's and of course Halloween. I am exhausted just thinking about it. I am so

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-75827632131106452852011-09-15T14:57:00.002-07:002011-09-15T14:57:48.868-07:00

I finally figured out You Tube! I have been taking videos on my phone lately, but in true Nicole fashion, I have had no idea how to upload them on anything! Today, I took the time to figure it out! I have two fun videos to share! The first one is hilarious!! I bought a Slip and Slide for $1.88 at Target and the kids were super stoked! Delaney figured it out right away- she is our graceful and

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-68116940993598691692011-09-06T15:52:00.000-07:002011-09-06T15:52:22.628-07:00

I am always trying to find new things to do with the whole family on a tight budget. This past weekend, Eric and I decided that we would drive about an hour (insert direction here) to a local farm called Apple Annies. This was the first time we have been to the orchard part of the farm and it was awesome! We were out the door by 8:00 (mush to Daylen's dismay) with the intention of the sweet

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-31826246213370743042011-08-30T21:13:00.000-07:002011-08-30T21:13:26.362-07:00

Summer in Tucson.... sucks. I really don't like the extreme heat and I REALLY don't like that the kids can't play outside for 5 minutes without turning bright red from the heat. The kids LOVE to be outside. Naturally, we have been swimming, playing in sprinklers and playing in the splash pad at the zoo to keep cool. ATTENTION: from here until the end of this post there will be boatloads of

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-53431780417197264472011-08-18T08:32:00.000-07:002011-08-18T08:32:07.279-07:00

Blogging? What is that? You mean there is something else on the Internet besides Pinterest?? Holy cow! While perusing through Pinterest one evening, I stumbled upon a picture of a little boy hugging his little sister and then underneath it was a picture taken at the same place, same day just 17 years later..... so now..... a new tradition has arrived at the Mikkelson casa. Yesterday was my

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-88425234890944197252011-07-23T20:34:00.000-07:002011-07-23T20:34:08.489-07:00

Vegas ain't what it used to be...... Back in February I had this idea to surprise Eric with a trip to Vegas for his birthday (in July). Well, I totally spoiled the surprise, I really just could not keep it a secret. But, because I spoiled the surprise, he was then in on the "we need to save every penny" kick I was on. Fast forward to July 3rd. We were set to leave July 5th. That evening, our

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-59596821987375274462011-07-17T18:03:00.001-07:002011-07-17T22:24:20.292-07:00

I know I have been a bad blogger lately. I'm not quite sure why... maybe it's because nothing new has been going on, maybe it's because there are only so many ways to say the kids spent the morning fighting or that Brody dumped something on the floor.... but then I think, maybe I should blog, because MAYBE there are some moms out there that can keep it real with me a little bit. And maybe it

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-7464958746438997032011-06-29T08:00:00.000-07:002011-06-29T08:00:02.796-07:00

Opie was thirsty:) opie

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-24524329691647087252011-06-25T21:12:00.000-07:002011-06-25T21:12:04.976-07:00

I had fully intended to post another assortment of random pictures the day after my last post (which would have been LAST Tuesday) but I didn't-- obviously. Anyway, here are some more happenings at the Mikk casa. It's now so hot that the only thing you can really do is swim. Well since we moved, we don't have a pool anymore. Oh but never fear! We took care of it in the most sophisticated way:

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-72663088483831386452011-06-13T17:36:00.000-07:002011-06-13T17:36:51.064-07:00

So I have been quite the sucky blogger lately. No real reason... just lazy, I guess. As I write this, I am watching Brody take all of the books OFF the bookshelf, stack them on the TV cabinet and then try to transfer them to the ottoman. And even better, he just brought the Jenny McCarthy book Baby Laughs and points to the baby and says, "Mo, what dat? Da bebe's butt?" I am pretty sure that he

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-49367721199975020582011-05-24T14:04:00.000-07:002011-05-24T14:04:41.909-07:00

I pride myself on being cheap frugal. I love finding deals and hate spending money... just ask Eric:) Having a family of six, it is not always easy to do things fun and not break the bank. Couple weeks ago, I was on FB (shocker) and came across a deal for FREE tickets (up to 4) to go watch the new Tucson Padres AAA baseball team play! It was great! You see it was "Wiener Wednesday" so we all had

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-8969004164822071812011-05-11T13:35:00.001-07:002011-05-11T13:36:11.730-07:00

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-82145985323577867742011-05-01T21:14:00.000-07:002011-05-01T21:14:56.197-07:00

Yes I realize Easter was LAST Sunday, but I haven't really had time to post about it til now:) Easter morning was more chaotic this year because my partner in crime, aka Eric, was sick, so it was all me! I did the Easter baskets the night before and I also cut up a bunch of stickers to put inside some plastic eggs and I put a ton in their room! Anyway, Easter morning, the kids thoroughly

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-39475381041262867682011-04-30T15:12:00.000-07:002011-04-30T15:12:38.764-07:00

The Pima County Fair was in town, almost two weeks ago now. I really wanted to go. Not because I love the rides (I actually am terrified of them) or even for the food (Eric on the other hand....) but because  really wanted to the kids to go and experience it. We went on a Tuesday around 4:45. Let me just tell ya, it was the BEST time to go! No lines- for anything! Plus, we didn't have to fight

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-6313849055651341102011-04-26T16:56:00.000-07:002011-04-26T16:56:28.648-07:00

Here is my menu for this week: Monday:      Ranch Parmesan Chicken, corn and rice Tuesday:      Roast with potatoes, carrots, onions Wednesday:  Chicken and wild rice Thursday:     Tater Tot casserole, Normandy veggies Friday:         Sweet and Sour Chicken and rice Saturday:      Tortellini and salad I am happy to say that I am back on the coupon bandwagon! I went shopping last night and

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-75107012667807176702011-04-21T16:40:00.001-07:002011-04-21T21:07:04.384-07:00

Dear Brody,    Well, you turned two 5 days ago. TWO! I tried as hard as I could to NOT let you turn TWO, but was unsuccessful. You are seriously the funniest little boy. We love watching you play with cars and love the faces that you make. You are starting to talk so much! Pretty soon, I can imagine the non-stop talking that is going to be taking over the killer mini van and the dinner table.

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-63410873597211231962011-04-12T14:53:00.002-07:002011-04-12T14:56:45.965-07:00

 Okay, for awhile now I have been planning our meals on a weekly basis, but have not posted any! My dear friend, Ami, recently asked why I don't post them... so here I am. I haven't been blogging as much because I have seriously been on the organizing war path. When we moved, I was damned and determined to have a small part of the old, anal retentive Nicole back. I needed her back!!! I am happy

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-66825246579771953802011-04-06T07:13:00.000-07:002011-04-06T07:13:42.018-07:00

My Dad (their Granddaddy) with my kids at church.

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-15541799970856523212011-04-03T21:29:00.000-07:002011-04-03T21:29:23.816-07:00

I am amazed at how fast time is going. I am amazed at how big my 'babies' are getting. We have been very busy here at the Mikkelson house. The only thing that is left to unpack and organize is the stupid garage. As the kids get older, I find myself able to do more around the house, which I love. I do, however, have to 'pause' my organizing/cleaning rampages that I get on to remind myself that the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-85363301280283549732011-03-20T15:39:00.000-07:002011-03-20T15:39:23.391-07:00

Sundays are pretty much my favorite day of the week. I love going to church as a family. Delaney and Brody can hardly wait to get in the door of their class. Delaney walks in and says, "Hello everybody! It's me! Delaney Grace Mikkelson! What are you guys doing?" Usually one of the wonderful volunteers at Pantano Christian Church, has some play-doh all prepared for little miss social. Last week I

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-81376501767605542132011-03-16T14:54:00.000-07:002011-03-16T14:54:11.306-07:00

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-55246264792183912152011-03-11T20:56:00.000-07:002011-03-11T20:56:53.225-07:00

You see, in my house, we are always ready for a party. And by party, I mean costume party. From the moment my kids wake up, they are hounding me to help them put on their outfits. I put Brody's on first, then Delaney's because after putting on her dress, we have to find the matching dancing shoes and crown. From that moment on....they are to be called Princess or Belle and Buzz. They wear them

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-8981191016595875862011-03-03T14:59:00.001-07:002011-03-03T14:59:24.416-07:00

This past Sunday, I woke up around 7:30 (which is late for me) and quickly sat up to yell at Eric that we needed to leave in an hour for church. The kids were not awake yet and it was so quiet in the house. I looked at our sliding glass door and through the shades I said to Eric, "It's so bright outside, it looks like it snowed." Of course we both thought my comment was ridiculous so I got out of

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-64131040648070541602011-02-27T21:54:00.000-07:002011-02-27T21:54:08.335-07:00

We are 90% unpacked! Can I get a HELL YEAH! We have been working our butts off trying to make this house a home and have it be as organized as possible, hence the lack of posts. So, in order to catch up.... here are a million posts, shoved into one:) Yes, Valentine's Day was like 3 weeks ago, but I have pictures that I haven't shared. For those that know me, you know that I never so anything for

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-15478866597955817162011-02-16T16:01:00.000-07:002011-02-16T16:01:26.422-07:00

I have been trying to unpack for flipping ever it feels like. We have  A LOT OF CRAP. We moved into a 5 bedroom, 2 story house in Rita Ranch. Kind of ironic because a) I never wanted to live in Rita Ranch again and b) I swore I would never live in a 2 story again. Huh.... funny how that worked out. Anyway, we moved out here to be closer to the big kids. They moved back here with their mom a few

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-42740706568220903922011-02-02T14:21:00.022-07:002011-02-02T15:00:41.966-07:00

So we moved. Yep. Again. There are major reasons behind this move, but that is for a post later (hopefully this week:). THIS post is about all the happenings that went on up until the move. Turns out, packing a 3000 square foot house with two toddlers, no so easy. So, distractions were made so I could get as much done as I could.  Here are s TON of pictures from  the last few weeks: Delaney and

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-18871343720037232172011-01-15T21:24:00.000-07:002011-01-15T21:24:37.360-07:00

Last week Eric told me that I should take Delaney to see Tangled while it was still in the theatre and have a girls day. So, that's what we did today! Delaney was so excited to ride in Nana's car.... she always rides in the killer mini-van, so this was quite a treat. She talked NON-STOP all the way to breakfast. She asked what different buildings were, what new sounds she was hearing and then she

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-64195820425225156172011-01-01T21:38:00.000-07:002011-01-01T21:38:05.616-07:00

***WARNING:  LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG! Happy New Year! The past two days I have been reflecting on 2010 and have come to the conclusion that I am neither happy nor sad to see it go. Yes, there were some hard times, but there were also many blessings that I can't ignore. We went on our first big family vacation and had a BLAST! Seeing the expressions on the kids faces when they gave Minnie a hug was

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-17518103834711477822010-12-28T20:51:00.000-07:002010-12-28T20:51:38.648-07:00

I gotta admit.... I LOVE Christmas morning. My parents always made it magical for us. Even when we were teenagers, my dad would ask us what Santa brought and we would try and sneak stocking stuffers into our parents stockings. It was always fun. The past couple of years have been fun, but I knew THIS year was going to be a blast. Delaney finally understood what was going on. She knew Santa was

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-68169592149927136142010-12-27T21:55:00.000-07:002010-12-27T21:55:07.279-07:00

Christmas Eve at the Kelley's (my family) has always been memorable. We always go to church, go home and eat chili (with cut up hot dogs in it) and then we all sit down and watch White Christmas. Yes, the White Christmas with Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye... ( is Clark Griswold screaming in your head right now?) This year was a bit different though. My dad had a trip (Airline Pilot) and randomly had

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-37031133411692626302010-12-15T10:14:00.000-07:002010-12-15T10:14:38.017-07:00

Yesterday we went to see Santa. I have been prepping Delaney for this for a couple weeks now.... last year, did not go so well. I thought this year might be okay because she did so well with all the characters in Disneyland. I asked her, yet again, what she was going to tell Santa she wanted for Christmas and again, she said a helicopter (crap....gotta get a helicopter) and Brody wants a black

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-10235933825516244352010-12-14T13:14:00.000-07:002010-12-14T13:14:10.879-07:00

I was totally excited when I was asked to do a review. Then, she said I would be reviewing screwdrivers. Hmmm.... okay, still excited, but don't know anything about screwdrivers (except what I learn from Phillipe and Turner on Handy Manny), but I have a husband who knows TONS. Well, I received my screwdriver and was excited about how cute it was. Yes, I realize that using screwdriver and cute

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-88020750744297315032010-12-12T21:02:00.000-07:002010-12-12T21:02:27.629-07:00

Last night we went on our annual walk through Winterhaven (a neighborhood that has some elaborate exterior illumination). I told Delaney about it earlier in the day and she was super excited! Ready to go. She wore her hat and mittens the whole way there.  We had some chili for dinner then loaded up in the killer mini van and made our way to the festivities. We left a lot later than I had planned

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-73120973755660220732010-12-07T20:33:00.000-07:002010-12-07T20:33:56.107-07:00

My child never stops talking. She even talks in her sleep (totally freaks Eric out). Lately, it has been insane. She always ends up making us laugh like crazy. Here are a couple recent conversations with the little girl: 1.  Delaney:  Eric, you are stressing me out today!!!      Eric: I am stressing you out???      Delaney:  Yes, you are totally stressing me out right now.      Eric: Wow, the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-47601400177262213262010-12-05T20:11:00.000-07:002010-12-05T20:11:57.461-07:00

(He is obviously unaware that we are more of a Target shopping family. He'll learn :o)

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-85950585945127603152010-11-30T20:37:00.001-07:002010-11-30T20:38:16.173-07:00

         Yee haw! I am done! I was trying to think of something clever for today's post, but frankly I just didn't have it in me. I spent the day cleaning, a disaster of a house. The kids were very good today and I got to take like a 15 minute shower-alone! The evening was capped off me crying at the end of Toy Story 3, again, and Delaney making farting noises into her elbow. I was so proud

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-10118358498847586082010-11-29T20:58:00.000-07:002010-11-29T20:58:21.903-07:00

My friend, Ami,did a post about old and new traditions and I thought that was a STUPENDOUS idea. Christmas has always been my family's favorite time of year. Growing up my mom would decorate our house to the hilt. It was always amazing! Our friends would come over just to hang out at the Kelley's Christmas Wonderland. I love our traditions and I love that we are making new ones. I love

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-58858213461685091022010-11-28T20:38:00.000-07:002010-11-28T20:38:26.027-07:00

Holy crap. My son has gone freaking crazy! He has jumped, with both feet, from the high dive, into the terrible twos. Our poor Christmas tree has taken a huge beating and the poor baby Jesus from the Little People Nativity scene has been abused beyond belief. He won't stop throwing things- tonight it was his whole plate. Holy moly.... How can he be so cute and cuddly one minute and then crazy

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-30481639009684341892010-11-27T21:04:00.002-07:002010-11-30T10:34:51.506-07:00

Today was another Griswold moment for me. The big kids are with us this weekend so we decided to decorate the Christmas tree. I envisioned this wonderful day, where all the kids were happy, the little would be in total awe of the tree, Christmas music would be playing in the background, the tree would turn out like a Pottery Barn catalog and I would look skinny in all pictures. Not. So. Much.

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-76949539749364503192010-11-26T14:41:00.000-07:002010-11-26T14:41:01.715-07:00

Thanksgiving was a blast, exhausting, but fun. Here are a bunch of pictures from our day:) Brody watching the train set that my grandparents brought. He loves trains! My princess watching the choo-choo. Mimi (my grandma) and Brody man Mimi and Delaney Brody and Nana having a moment. That is the barrier protecting the turkey fryer (or I guess it would be to keep kids and dogs out). Brody

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-12827994740185074642010-11-25T21:07:00.001-07:002010-11-25T21:09:19.809-07:00

My kids are in bed. My dogs are fed. The dishes are done. The house is not trashed. I am wearing sweats and eating pumpkin cookies. We are about to watch Christmas Vacation and I am going to have a big glass of chocolate milk. Thanksgiving was great. We started the day with monkey bread and the parade. Delaney and Brody LOVED watching all the balloons and I loved watching them. We watched the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-59563288639021437862010-11-24T17:49:00.001-07:002010-11-24T17:50:42.933-07:00

SO remember the story about my dad and the 'rat the size of a small terrier'? Well, according to my mom, the rat bastard is back-and is pissed. He is moving bigger stuff around in there to show his manliness (is that a word?). My dad has put down the ski pole and has switched to bigger, better tactics. Did ya notice that the ankle straps are a bit tighter?

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-60994639188650929692010-11-23T23:03:00.001-07:002010-11-24T07:37:08.541-07:00

I had post-its all ready for tonight and the stupid server is rejecting them. WTH? Ugh so now I am forced to come up with something on the fly.  And now I can't upload ANY pictures, so this is going to be boring! Brody is now 19 months old has totally started his terrible twos. Holy crap it's a pain int he butt. He is seriously out of control. I took him to the doctor this morning to see why

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-12061315062392164322010-11-22T20:21:00.000-07:002010-11-22T20:21:47.540-07:00

Here are some pictures from the past couple days.... he cracks me up. Brody is ALWAYS sitting on Opie. He is a good dog. He always has a car in his hand and I am sure that he is watching Toy Story 3 because he is obsessed!! This was today while I was getting lunch ready. It was too quiet, so I peeked around the corner and saw this. The best part is what the bean bag is on.... That's the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-27328953651007268372010-11-21T22:17:00.000-07:002010-11-21T22:17:40.482-07:00

I have said many times that my life is totally different than what I expected. I have learned to eat my words. A LOT. When I was young, my mom was a stay at home mom. She made it look easy. The house was clean. Dinner was always on the table, with place mats, napkins, water, etc. Dinner dishes were finished and we would sit down and watch TV together. She would do our laundry- and I would

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-24341635572866554332010-11-20T22:15:00.000-07:002010-11-20T22:15:58.084-07:00

*This was an email I got from my Nanny today. It was perfect timing. Thanks Nanny* This dog was born on Christmas Eve in the year 2002. He was born with 2 legs He of course could not walk when he was born. Even his mother did not want him. His first owner also did not think that he could survive and he was thinking of 'putting him to sleep'. But then, his present owner, Jude

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-19301734504479803522010-11-19T20:33:00.001-07:002010-11-19T20:33:51.853-07:00

Tonight as we were doing our nightly routine, my daughter, had us belly laughing. At around 7:00, the kids take a bath. Eric sits in the bathroom with them while I get their pajamas ready and then he washes them and we get them out. It pretty funny because Brody always goes with Eric and Delaney always goes with me.... and we get them dressed. They brush their teeth and eat their Juice Plus gummy

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-50590898877715274162010-11-18T22:00:00.001-07:002010-11-18T22:00:15.279-07:00

If you know my dad, then this post, will crack you up. If you don't. let me explain. My dad is a man's man. He wears leather and rides a Harley. He rides with the Patriot Guard (a motorcycle group that escorts fallen soldiers to their final resting place, while protecting their families from protesters). He was a fighter pilot. He is an airline pilot. He can fix or build anything. He will get a

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-32606538928856100912010-11-17T20:14:00.000-07:002010-11-17T20:14:15.095-07:00

Hmm....how can I get MORE in my mouth at once? Figured it out.... Oh there's my fork! But my fork is just slowing me down... Don't even think about taking my noodles. OMG, I ate too much. Take it Mommy, take it, I think I am gonna barf.

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-73523541087047318962010-11-16T21:07:00.000-07:002010-11-16T21:07:56.198-07:00

If ya wanna play along, click above!

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-55447517036746364112010-11-15T22:36:00.000-07:002010-11-15T22:36:55.509-07:00

I love my little monkey man. Brody is a solid, tender-hearted, cuddly little boy. He will climb up onto your lap and cozy up against your chest and hang out for awhile. When he wakes up in the middle of the night (yes, he still wakes up once- ugh) he will get as close as he can to you while you are rocking him back to sleep. He is obsessed with cars, balls, Caillou, Buzz Lightyear and his

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-85528072537805984352010-11-14T22:36:00.000-07:002010-11-14T22:36:19.397-07:00

Once again it is late. I am tired. I have no specific topic in mind to blog about, but I am not giving up on my 30 posts in 30 days. I was talking to my mom tonight and asking for some topics and she came up with quite a few (thx mom), but this one was my favorite because after a long, exhausting weekend, I needed some reflection. SO... here is a list of things I am thankful for- from today.

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-56663493087439790302010-11-13T21:15:00.000-07:002010-11-13T21:15:09.661-07:00

My friend, Ami, did a "Like mother, like daughter" post and that got me thinking.... how is Delaney like me? Yes, we have the same nose and she is slightly dramatic (I have been told that is a trait of mine, but I don't see it), but it was my lovely mother who pointed out something that Delaney and I have in common. See we both have a small problem saying particular words correctly. If you know

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-69879598187435426602010-11-12T22:56:00.000-07:002010-11-12T22:56:21.316-07:00

So it's late, I am super tired, I have had a super long day and I have no idea what to blog about. So here is a very random post!!! Last night my mom and I were at Michaels looking for cake stuff and checking out all the awesome Christmas decorations. If you know me or my mother, then you know that we love us some Christmas village houses.... a lot. Eric has somewhat limited my Christmas

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-54196065002810853332010-11-11T16:24:00.000-07:002010-11-11T16:24:38.068-07:00

Delaney woke up from her nap today and came out to find me all cozy on the couch. She quickly climbed up next to me and said, "Mommy, get me cozy too." So I covered her up in our blanket and turned on Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas. Brody was still sleeping so it was just the two of us...for like 45 minutes. She asked me for a snack, I asked what she would like, she told me she would like some '

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-85557270268081654702010-11-10T21:24:00.000-07:002010-11-10T21:24:38.952-07:00

With gloves and all Let's not forget her dancin' shoes

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-39913784641723385352010-11-09T20:05:00.000-07:002010-11-09T20:05:57.904-07:00

While eating dinner, Brody handed me a piece of....something. Didn't realize what it was. Can YOU tell what it is? Sweet.Only Brody man. 

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-71608671906412164052010-11-08T20:07:00.000-07:002010-11-08T20:07:13.776-07:00

Delaney is just like every other girl. She loves shoes. The problem is, she loves shoes so much that she ALWAYS has to wear them! No kidding. She wears them all day, with her jammies, with her clothes, sometimes just with just her chonies on. She even gets up in the middle of the night and puts them on after I have taken them off of her after she has fallen asleep. Sometimes, she goes into the

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-36676590182806557412010-11-07T21:30:00.000-07:002010-11-07T21:30:12.926-07:00

It's funny how things change and how they stay the same. Tonight as I look around my house, I see nothing but clutter, dust, dirt and chaos. A year ago.... the same mess existed, although I think maybe it was slightly less because Brody was unable to do his famous dumping of every toy imaginable. One year ago, Brody was super sick (right now he has a sinus infection) and Delaney was fighting a

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-47338120443657167972010-11-06T19:48:00.000-07:002010-11-06T19:48:02.969-07:00

Today we went to Costco. I have a love/hate relationship with that place. It truly amazes me how stupid and completely oblivious people can be. Eric has even less patience at Costco than I do. He just runs into them with his elbow or the cart. Every once in a while, the kids are actually behaving and then do something that makes the trip worthwhile. Today, was one of those days. First, let me

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-76500951844041707722010-11-05T15:19:00.001-07:002010-11-05T15:21:00.075-07:00

I had a different picture of Halloween in my head this year (shocker, I know). The original plan was to turn Delaney's flower girl dress into a Cinderella gown and make a Gus Gus costume for Brody. For those that dont' follow the fairy tales, Gus Gus is the fluffier mouse on Cinderella...the one who says, "Hap hap hap happy birthday!". Ok so that didn't happen. My mom did a great job on Delaney's

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-76567426749796991632010-11-04T13:53:00.000-07:002010-11-04T13:53:51.574-07:00

Last Saturday the big kids were with us and we decided for a 'family day' we would go to Apple Annie's to pick some pumpkins. I had low expectations for this trip for a couple reasons. 1. The big kids weren't feeling super 2. We would be arriving around nap time. 3. It was the day before Halloween so I kinda figured it would be crowded. 4. I have learned that when I think the day will be perfect,

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-8462049840377597102010-11-03T07:00:00.002-07:002010-11-03T07:33:50.321-07:00

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-76026050225540576812010-11-02T13:06:00.001-07:002010-11-02T13:08:47.940-07:00

We had Delaney's birthday party last week and it was lots of fun. I love that her birthday is in October and Brody's is in April because it is perfect park weather. And I love the park, because that means I don't have to clean my house! I wanted Delaney to have a cute tutu to wear.... so I made one. That's right.... I made it! In true Delaney form, she wore it for a total of 5 minutes and then it

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-63015506037891725552010-11-01T19:15:00.000-07:002010-11-01T19:15:12.829-07:00

It's November 1. That means NaBloPoMo (National log Posting Month) and that means a lot of posts. Right now, my life is so crazy and so up in the air, that maybe, just maybe, this need to post everyday, will help me have some feeling of normalcy (whatever that is). Does this make sense.  See here's what's happening.... we have a lot of things that are changing right now and we don't have any

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-81061176291608284042010-10-27T13:51:00.000-07:002010-10-27T13:51:39.745-07:00

My little girl is three. THREE! How did that happen? I can close my eyes and picture the day that she was born.... I was so tired and in so much pain, but I still remember the moment they put that pissed off little baby on my chest. Man was she mad.... and she was mad for awhile (should have known then what was to come).  I remember bringing her home from the hospital and looking at her in her

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-21958243478380592752010-10-17T20:14:00.000-07:002010-10-17T20:14:28.227-07:00

My sister has never been conventional. Ever. Why would her wedding be any different? After deciding to have an 'at home wedding' (think Father of the Bride), she moved her wedding date up to 10-10-10. My parents busted their butts for months to make the backyard beautiful, with some help from Eric:) It turned out beautifully! Here are some pictures from her big day:   Delaney showing us her

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8233432439062878192.post-17823511027063238452010-10-11T09:02:00.000-07:002010-10-11T09:02:45.995-07:00

This last week was a blur. We were so busy getting ready for the wedding, plus I was getting ready for the massive wedding cake:) Here are some pictures from last week:   Delaney at the rehearsal Aunt D and her flower girl Delaney and Granddaddy The Bride and Groom Brody was there too:) Delaney rockin the mic My new bro-in-law and sis Brody man and Granddaddy I think we are

Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16854899052864482365noreply@blogger.com2