Break time!

For my mom's 60th birthday in July, we surprised her with Michael Jackson Cirque Soleil show tickets at Staples Center in LA for a January 28 show.    It was such a fun way to celebrate her birthday and spend a weekend away.  It was so fun to see my sister, visit with my parents, play some cards, eat some yummy food, visit the beach, shop, take a nap and do some sleeping in.    I hope we make it a tradition and do it every year!!!!!!!

Birthday fun in LA with Aunt Kan Kan

For her birthday, Madison asked to fly to California and visit her Aunt KanKan.  So through teary eyes (that I hid from Madison) I sent her off on a plane over night to see my sister.  Kandra had a ton of fun stuff planned and Madison had a blast during her quick 30 hour trip.  Next time we will have to plan it longer.......the two of them are two peas in a pod. 

When my sisters were growing up, their dates would show up to pick them up and my parents, Brendon and I would wear different noses as we introduced ourselves.  My sisters were thoroughly embarassed but we loved the reaction of each boy that showed up on our doorstep.  Before flying to California, Madison insisted we find the bag of noses so she could wear them when she flew to meet Kandra.  I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.   :)

Santa Monica pier on a windy day

Madison with Kandra's friend, Bryan Russel.  SO thankful he's a good sport!

Matching Santa Monica sweatshirts

Birthday dinner at Benihana 

 hhhmmm......they played dress up?????????

Kandra, Favale and Bruss:  thank you for taking such wonderful care of my baby girl and making her birthday one she'll never forget.  As a parent, it was so hard to let her expand her wings and sneak away from the nest, but it was comforting to know she was with all of you.  Thank you so much........it's hard to explain my gratitude for being so wonderful to my baby.  Hugs to all of you!

Birthday Breakfast

 Thanks everyone for joining us at AZ Bread CO before Madison flew to California.  Your input on the best nose to wear was greatly appreciated!

Madison Turns 14!

Where did the time go?  At 14 years old, she's pushing 5'7" and wears a size 9 shoe.  She's broken three bones so far (jaw, leg and back), yet she still keeps smiling and is determined to keep on going strong.  She's such a beautiful, young lady inside and out.  

For her birthday she had a few friends over for a scavenger hunt, pizza, popcorn, Just Dance and a karaoke party.  

Madison Jean, we are so very proud of you!! 14 years ago when I held you for the first time, I had no idea how much happiness you would bring us everyday.  We are truly blessed to have you as our daugther.   Keep on smiling!  Keep on being YOU!

Bye Bye Braces

Annual Leaf Fun

In typical Arizona fashion, our leaves fall in January, not October like most states.  So, the kids headed out in the 70 degree weather to enjoy making a leaf pile with their best buddies:  Chloe and Christian LeClaire

Quite the leaf gathering style.......love this girl!



Let the jumping begin!   Woohoo!



The trees in our neighborhood are one of the many things I love about where we live.  The annual leaf pile is such a fun day and a great start to 2012!