the McGuire's

The Sick house

2011-05-03T18:28:00.000-07:00

Sick and tired of being sick and tired, come on summer, ready to roll.

It was a nice evening, we as a family played in the front yard with the neighbors and their 3 year old son, Bubba got to check out their motorcycles, and I was thinking the whole time... I want to do a block party, a good ole fashion BYOF and shut down the block with kids running around, fun. Maybe I will be daring enough to get it started. We'll see. But I can't wait for the summer times to roll and all the out door play and NO SICK DAYS!!!

I also noticed our apricot tree is about to produce some gorgeous fruit and I can't wait to start picking!

wow, a year in a nut shell

2011-03-23T16:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a long one, not sure if I even still have any viewers on my blog anymore. I want to pick my blogging back up, mainly because it has been a great reference for me to see when Gracie did what, my public journal.

In August 2010, Liam was born, beautiful sweet Liam. He arrived a week early, but because of God's beautiful timing. My Nana, in Texas, was in hospice and holding on, and the next morning after Liam's arrival I had gotten the news that Nana had passed. She held on till the moment she heard of his birth and passed away shortly afterward. I am so happy that she had heard of his arrival, but still miss her terribly and was unable to see her before she passed or go to her funeral. This was a challenge emotionally. Especially with all the extra emotions I had at the time. Still hurts when I think of how much I miss her, but I know she had a beautiful life filled with love.

The holidays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas)all flew by fast, the kids were surrounded by family and lots of good food. I unfortunately had to go through surgery right before Christmas, gal bladder, yuck. But was well taken care of by family.

Liam, a tiny little guy, had soared through milestones and was beginning solids right around the time of all the yummy food.

Gracie turned 3 in January, my parents arrived in town just in time for celebrations. Their visit was great, and we greatly miss them. Gracie now 3, is testing her mother's patience. I'm failing at the moment, but optimistic that I will improve or she will grow out of the terrible 3s soon. :)

In February, baby Drew was born, my sister had her 2nd little boy. There was some complications his first few days, but with much prayer and even an unexpected last minute trip in town from me, I got to hold this sweet bundle. The McCormick's are now blessed with two healthy and fast growing boys, love 'em!

Bubba's birthday arrived in March, along with my BIL and my Mom's 60th, what joyful celebrations in March. Liam is sitting strong, eating all kinds of big boy foods and even trying desperately to crawl. He is in the process of charming the ladies with a new trick, a sweet smile and wave. Gracie is wearing big girl panties and on the final lap, hopefully, of potty training. She can also recite the pledge of allegiance and sing Frere Jacques in French, my girl. I'll have to post up some pics soon! Here's a couple of teasers.

Summer time!

2010-07-17T10:08:00.001-07:00

Summer time!!! It's hot hot hot this week/end, and we are trying to stay cool. Our count down is now a month away until little Liam Joseph will grace us with his presence, and I can't help but feel a little anxious. My first time through labor I didn't know what to expect, now that I know... it is a little bit scary, :Z. I know it will be fine, but just can't wait to get to the part of holding him and by pass all the other parts. Life will be different with two, but I always love challenges!

This summer, we got to have my sister and nephew visit us, my mom, and then took a mini vaca down to LA to see Steph and Momma Trish. We also got to visit, "Mickey's house" Disneyland,and Gracie's favorite- fishing trips. A lot happened in June, and now we are just resting for the rest of the summer till Liam's arrival.

Boy oh Boy!!!!

2010-03-21T11:10:00.001-07:00

We're having a BOY!!! Gracie called it, she has been saying baby brother the whole time, and we are so excited to be blessed with both a daughter and a son, this will be exciting! Now if I can only get some energy up to clean the house today, I've been slacking and now I have even more work to do to get it back in to shape!

Well, enough procrastinating, and spring clean begins.

Waiting...

2010-03-10T17:19:00.001-08:00

I feel like everything is a waiting game right now, at the moment I'm waiting on a bride to come in and work on her timeline with her, but that's an easy wait. I am never a patient person, I can never wait for an answer, but lately God has been testing me with it, and I fail everyday. I always rush moments in life, and maybe this is God's way to slow me down and make me enjoy the time around me. One of my other numerous waiting distractions is my ultrasound in a week, I am so excited, and can't wait to see this small bean moving around and kicking me.

I NEED PATIENCE!!! Can it be sold in a bottle? Can it be learned, not if you're me! After all of the waiting I've been through in life you'd think I would be a pro by now, but it is a lesson I can't pass. Hopefully God will show pity on me and not test me anymore on this, ha, I'm sure I'll be tested more than ever now.

Birthday month and Luck of the Irish

2010-03-06T11:43:00.000-08:00

This is truly a birthday month, Josh (brother-in-law), Bubba's and my Mom's, then Jim's the 3rd of April. Lots of celebrations for everyone!!!

Well an update, Gracie is growing so fast and talking more and more. Baby bean is moving and growing strong, we find out March 19th if it will be a boy or girl!!!! Bubba is working harder than ever, but I love his job, no matter how hard he works, we still get to be together since he works out of the house. My job is picking up and getting busy with wedding season, holy cow, bring on the brides!!!!!!!!! I've been talking, dreaming, and living weddings this week: Big weddings, small weddings, Bridezillas, Groomzillas (which are worse than Bridezillas), dresses, venues, contracts, payments, timelines, AHHHHHH!!!

But we are trying to escape and enjoy our beautiful scenery around us, last week we went fishing off the pier in Santa Cruz. It was so relaxing that we are going to go again, but this time bringing Gracie. I have a feeling it won't be as relaxing, :)

We feel that BIG changes are coming our way, especially with our new addition, but lots to pray with Bubba's job... maybe a promotion????? Hopeful dreams, but if anything happens, we will update. We will for sure update with the news of BOY OR GIRL, I'm very interested... I think BOY. My reason, pickles... with Gracie I couldn't stand the smell or taste of pickles (which if you know me, a true pickle fan, it was hard to not enjoy them), this time I can't get enough of them, and think about eating a pickle all the time. Silly reason, but got a feeling.

Love...

2010-02-09T13:30:00.000-08:00

February is almost half way over, and I can't believe how fast time is flying by... Gracie is 2, I'm 14 weeks pregnant, and Bubba is patiently dealing with us both. I know it can't be an easy job for him to be the father, husband and supporter of our family, but he is the best at everything he does. I have been praising him a lot lately, he has just really been working hard at home and at work and caring for us all. He is such a wonderful person, and I admire his strength and kindness.

We have all as a family been praying for guidance, wisdom, direction, surrendering our all, and to allow us to be quiet enough to listen to God's will for us as a family. I look forward to seeing the year 2010 unfold before us. Yesterday as I was driving home from the studio, I was thinking of MY stresses in life, of MY pain, of ME ME ME ME... I stopped and realized that there are much greater needs out there in friends and family and loved ones around me that need my prayers more than I do - I asked God to please take my burdens away and give me a heart for others. And since I am surrendering all to him, it has silenced my own thoughts and now I hear others around me more clearly, and I feel more in touch with what God wants, it's amazing the lessons he teaches us and the answered prayers he gives us.

Sorry if I'm babbling, but this has just been an amazing transfer that I wanted to share, and I hope that everyone who stops by my blog is having a wonderful day!

2009 in a nut shell

2009-12-28T22:16:00.001-08:00

Another long pause, I apologize, I never have time. Well, at least I got another one in before the new year. :)

I have two things to write about, one is our family happenings in 2009, in a quick nut shell, and the other is to announce that we are once more so happy to say that we are expecting another baby bean, August 2010!!!!!

January 2009, Gracie turned 1, and my family came out to celebrate with us!!!

February 2009, nothing too exciting this month, but celebrated Valentine's day with the Hubs

March 2009, Ouch... Bubba's birthday and we all three got so sick. I always meant to make up for his lack of celebration and time escaped us. I guess we will have to double up the fun for 2010. It was also U. Josh's birthday too, still am amazed that both mine and my sister's husband share the same birthday. Then Gracie and I left to surprise my mom for her birthday.

April 2009, Jim's birthday!

May 2009, I had stopped my nannying job and was home taking care of a hubby with bad side pains, that's why he lost all his weight, this was the month he changed his diet and exercise.

June 2009, My Dad had his birthday, and I started looking for a job and was interviewing, we were getting ready for a fun month in July...

July 2009, my family all came out to visit us and we had a wonderful time, we also went to Yosemite Park with my parents one weekend. I also got my job working for a wedding photographer.

August 2009, life began hectic juggling my work, Gracie and Bubba's schedule, we were also dying in our non air conditioned house. Us Texans didn't know houses existed without AC. Ha. Momma Trish came out to stay with us as she looked for a new job on the West Coast, this helped us as well with our schedules.

September 2009, A. Stephanie's birthday and we got a visit from them! Gracie also got a cool strider bike from them, a bike that glides... way too cool.

October 2009, Ooo... a fun month, Gracie dressed up as a fairy, and what a pretty fairy she was! I love the fall and all the holidays that come with it!!

November 2009, A. Jess's and Momma Trish's birthday!!! and Thanksgiving, Momma Trish moved down to LA, but was back up for the festivities with Jacques and Stephanie and their two dogs. We had a feast fit for Thanksgiving, lots of labor put into it but it was worth it! Yum!

December 2009, My birthday and we went to Tahoe, this was also the same time that I found out that we are expecting baby number 2!!!!!!!!!!!! Exciting news!!!!! We also took a week off of work to travel to Dallas to spend Christmas with our Texas family and friends! We all ended up getting a stomach bug, but recovered enough to see the kiddos open up presents. The trip ended with a nice brunch with my Mom's side of the family to celebrate my Nana's 88th birthday, she is so special to me. Merry Christmas!!!!

Words words words...

2009-10-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

I love having a blog, even though I've been absent for a few months, but I also think that the world has gone crazy with words words words. When is it enough? When do we say keep some thoughts to your self, and by this comment I'm referring to people who comment on celebrity/faux celeb photos or videos. It's insane how much we have become judges of others lives. I'm especially tired of seeing things on the balloon kid.

Sorry, I had to rant. But I'm glad to be posting up another blog. :)

Here are some updates...

Bubba is working working his tail end off, and I'm so proud of everything he is doing. His work is going really well; he is such a wonderful and caring hubby, and I love love to watch him and Gracie play or dance together. Such a great man that hubby of mine!

Gracie is all over the place, 21 months old now, and she is none stop active. I'm exhausted, but can't wait for each new day to see what she will do next. She is just babbling and starting to put words together, right now she is working on perfecting her "Trick or Treat", which is so cute. She is really starting to be able to focus on projects or toys and sit still for more than a minute. She is also my little kitchen helper and we have been trying new recipes out together.

For me, I've been busy with work and trying to keep up the house with a messy hubby and a messy toddler. Yikes! It's a daily frustration, wish I had more patience with that, but I am working with Gracie on picking up her toys when she is done playing with them. She also helps me with folding the laundry, she's actually getting pretty good at it! I've got a Dallas trip with Gracie to visit my family, whom I've been missing a lot, can't wait to see them in two weeks. We also just booked our Christmas tickets to Dallas as well, yippee!

Bubba and I both love this part of the year, we can't wait for those cold days and the leaves changing colors and the anticipation for our favorite holiday, Christmas!

Ma Famille...

2009-08-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

It's been a full and exciting month in July for our family of three. We started with the 4th of July with Jacques, Stephanie, Jim and Lita. Then Josh, Jess, Jacob, Gabby and Grandpa came for a visit. We went to the Monterey aquarium, Alcatraz, Pier 39, Santana Row and Yosemite Park. It's been a great time visiting with everyone, but now it is a little quite around the house, although... we are now expecting Momma Trish to arrive today, and Jacques and Stephanie are coming to visit again in a week or so.

"Baby"

2009-07-10T16:39:00.000-07:00

I know Amanda, I'm posting this up fast...

We just walked in the door after having lunch with Amanda, Adah, and Valerie. Gracie loved little Adah; she thought she was like one of her dolls that she likes to hold, hug and kiss. Not sure what Adah thought about all this attention, but she was very patient with Gracie!

Sparklers, naked and fun, oh yeah

2009-07-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July yesterday! We did over here... Aunt Stephanie and Uncle Jacques got to join us as we celebrated, and we had a great time. Here are some pics, but first, there are some naked baby pics, so you are warned, :).

Ah, sake it to me...

2009-06-23T23:46:00.000-07:00

Well... again, my blogging time has gone out the window. I'm lucky if I even get to peek at anyone else's blog. Lucky for me facebook keeps me updated with quick references on everyone's day to day lives.

Father's day, what a great day! Bubba's first gift, no changing diapers all day! Then his second, Blowfish sushi and sake, yum. Another one, oh my, he got the Wii monopoly game, a good one. Now if only I could make his knee stop hurting, now that would be an excellent gift that I think he would go nuts over.

On our way to Blowfish, by the way is the best sushi place EVER, we noticed a significant increase of people walking along the streets of Santana Row. Sure enough it was another protest. It has been crazy in the bay area with protests for Iran, hopefully someone is getting the picture that things aren't right and will do something to change it. The funny thing... I told Bubba, "I bet (my boss)Kamran is taking photos of the protest," and sure enough he was right there in the middle of everything snapping photos. He took some amazing ones in Union Square (SF) and on father's day, too. His facebook page has all the pics, http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/picture2000?ref=ts.

Here are my photos of Bubba's day... BTW, again, Happy Father's day to Bubba, Dad, Jim, and Uncle Josh.

Daddy Daycare

2009-06-15T21:19:00.000-07:00

Blog world has not even entered my mind in awhile, since the start of my new job...

Bubba has been a huge help and support as I make the transition back into work.

Here are a few photos he took of Gracie in their play time, while I was away.

Tiki Clutch by Vera Bradley

2009-06-10T09:31:00.001-07:00

Oh so cute and Lauren Nicole website is giving one away for free, check it out here.

fun in the sun

2009-06-07T21:47:00.000-07:00

We went to the park again today, this time to try out the water part, Boomerang Bay. We got a little sunburned even though I coated us with sun screen, so I guess we started that summer glow. Here are some photos...

the cute ladybug arm floaties are from Momma Trish, thank you! They are so cute with her red polka dot/cherries swim suit, or costume (as Uncle Jacques would call it, crazy South Africans, ha). Gracie loved seeing Sponge Bob, but every time she got close to any of the characters she freaked out.

I can have my cake and eat it too...

2009-06-07T21:23:00.000-07:00

great new blog I looked at tonight, cake wrecks, it features some really fabulous cakes along with some of the worst looking cakes I have ever seen. Oh well, as long as it tastes good. I hope you guys have as much fun looking at these cakes as I did!

Backyard fun and Santa Cruz

2009-05-31T21:24:00.000-07:00

We had a fun weekend hanging out with Aunt Stephanie and Uncle Jacques, his birthday is this Tuesday, and we got to help celebrate with him. Wednesday is my Dad's birthday, so Happy Birthday guys!!!!!

Being a mom is tough!

2009-05-28T14:48:00.000-07:00

Thank you Aunt Jessica for your blog post yesterday, Gracie is doing much better today. I was really scared yesterday when I woke up to Gracie having a 103.5 temp, mine had never gone that high, so I didn't think hers should either. I called the pediatrician who assured me it's just a bug and that if the fever doesn't go down in the next couple of days with Tylenol to come in for a visit. Well, later that afternoon her temperature remained in the 103 and maybe slightly higher and she went into fever seizures. Now I have never seen anyone in person have a seizure, so I was scared, she went completely limp after her episode and it frightened me. Luckily, Bubba was on his way home from work and he took us to the urgent care unit.

Poor Gracie, they did all kinds of blood tests, urine tests, Tylenol in the bottom and so on, and she had to sit with a plastic baggy on her hmmm...until she would pee. Thank you Lord, there was nothing wrong with her tests and we got to go home.

After 45 min of recovery from a long afternoon, Gracie decided it was time to feel better and party, and she is still partying hard today. I guess a Tylenol in the bottom is the ticket to making you feel better so you don't have to go through that again.

These are definitely the times I wish I lived closer to my mom or Bubba's mom for some of that momma guidance. But, Momma Trish is coming out soon for a visit, her first time to see Gracie walk in person, and my Mom (Gabby) and Grandpa, Aunt Jessica, Uncle Josh, and cousin Jake are all coming out in July. We can't wait to see them, we are so blessed with such a loving and caring family.

slides, polish and Fred oh my

2009-05-25T16:26:00.000-07:00

The Flasher

2009-05-14T16:48:00.000-07:00

I really need to charge our video camera battery, because Bubba and I decided it would have been better to hear and see her comments as she flashed us! Maybe we'll catch her doing it again, but this time we'll be prepared!

All distractions to get to Daddy's soda, it worked...

A momma's day gift

2009-05-12T15:55:00.000-07:00

Jim and Lita got Bubba and I season passes to Great America Park for Father's/Mother's day. Thank you guys, we will definitely use this all summer, especially when the open up the water park. We had fun, but Gracie had the most fun just watching everyone on the rides. I also talked Bubba into doing one of those midway games of throw the ring on a bottle and win a giant stuffed animal. We had a whole bucket and on my third try I got it! So now we are the proud owners of a 2 feet tall penguin, which stays in Gracie's room, hope it doesn't give her nightmares.

I had such a wonderful mother's day and was spoiled with gift cards, cards, dinner and sunglasses from my sister, parents and hubby/Gracie. Thank you all for the special day and the recognition. I love you all.

Momma and Me

2009-05-12T15:31:00.000-07:00

I took Gracie to Santana Row's Mommy and me day out. Perfect weather for an outdoor event, if only Gracie had been in a perfect mood. Overall we had a great time and even ate lunch with Lita, but Gracie was not too patient and didn't want to wait on anything or anyone. So we had a few melt downs, but she got to listen to music, see little girls doing ballet, balloon animals, play chess with other toddlers and eat corn on the cob (her favorite food right now).

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2009-05-10T08:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Mom's Day... Gabby, Jessica, Momma Trish, Nana, and Grandma Abbott, I love you ladies very much. Each one of y'all have taught me in different ways what a mother's role is about, and how to love unconditionally.

Dixon

2009-05-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a long day yesterday ... It started off interesting and then ended with FUN!!!

Gracie had her 15 month old check up, here are her stats...

21 lbs, 20th % she is a tiny girl
2'7" tall 65 %
48 cm head

and a shot, ouch, but she was a good patient and didn't fuss. She was very excited to recieve her Winnie the Pooh sticker and showed it off to everyone in the office.

After that we meet back at home with Bubba and prepared to make a 2 and 1/2 hour drive, 100 miles, to Dixon. There was so much traffic on the way there and Bubba and I didn't have great directions, so we were a little flustered, but then there was Dixon, a small town just south of Sacramento. In Dixon was AUNT STEPHANIE!!!!!! Jessica was having her concert and we got to hang with Aunt Steph backstage whenever she was in between tasks. Gracie wore a purple outfit in support of her Aunt. We had a great time!

The fish sunbrella was a gift from Auncle Joshica and Jacob, they sent Gracie a summer care package with some cute outfits and the fishybrella. She loves it! Thank you guys!!!!! Can't wait to see you all in July.

Blue Playdough

2009-05-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Last week I made some playdough for Gracie. It was fun to make and play with for us both, although my hands were blue for a day, but well worth the smile on her face when she pounded the dough down with my rolling pin.

Awesome new site that I'm following...

2009-05-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.laurennicolegifts.blogspot.com

Lauren Nicole Gifts, I found this site through Lauren's blog, and just love all her gifts on her site. She also does give aways, last one was for a Vera Bradley bag and goodies and the newest one is for a Lily Pulitzer bag. Check out her blog and website, I think you all will like her stuff too.

My little fluffy girl

2009-04-29T22:40:00.000-07:00

My friend Amanda is waiting for her precious Adah to arrive, and while she is waiting she is getting very crafty. It got me in the spirit and decided I would make a tutu for my little girl as well. It was so inexpensive, I bought one for Gracie before she was born and spent about 25 bucks, but one quick stop to Michael's and I walk out with my supplies for $4, enough to make two. It didn't take me long at all, and she loved it! She twirled around and jumped up and down, I think she liked the feel of it floating around when she moved.

12+3 = 15, see I can do math :D

2009-04-28T12:42:00.000-07:00

Gracie Girl is 15 months old today, I can't believe how the time flies. She already has 12 teeth and chomps on steak, her hair is growing so long that I can put it in a ponytail (more of a sprout), she walks faster and stronger, she motions me to come here when she has found something she wants out of reach, she can definitely say a few names and words, and if I cry she gives me a hug and kiss, she has also learned how to sing into a microphone (I see star power), and whenever we see each other she runs up to me with open arms. That is a sweet pure true heart in that little girl, and I hope it stays forever.

Happy 15 months Gracie Girl, I hope the next 15 are just as eventful.

Silly Gracie, playing dress up with mommy...

I need another pair of hands...

2009-04-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

Gracie is almost 15 months old and into everything. I can't turn my head for a second or she will....empty out a whole bag of Gold fish....or put my credit card in the toilet. Those are just a few examples of the mischief she gets into. Today...she found out, or should I say I found out, that she is now tall enough to reach the counters and pulled her fruit loops down and started shoveling handfuls into her mouth, uh oh, now we have to watch what gets put on the counters too.

The Drive-In

2009-04-19T10:55:00.000-07:00

Last night was great!!!! We discovered a drive-in movie theater near our neighborhood, and it was so much fun!

It was $12 for us all to see "Observe and Report", which was ok it had some funny parts, but then after that show we can stay and see the next for free. We weren't sure what show would be the next one until it started, and it happened to be "I love you, Man", which was so awesome. We hadn't laughed that much in a long time. The best part about the Drive-In theater is that you can bring your own food and drinks, people were grilling all around us and had big coolers filled with "bee...soda" and we brought in a pizza. 12 bucks for two movies that was cheap. Great discovery!

Gracie came with us, but fell asleep half way through, so it worked out great bringing her.

Yay, we finally got to go to the movies and not only just one but two. Successful night.

I'm hunting wabbits

2009-04-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

Easter weekend was great! Aunt Stephanie and Uncle Jacques came up to help hide the eggs and celebrate with us. It is always a treat to have them here. Stephanie cooked us two dinners, one was this chicken dumpling dish that was so goooooood, and the other was her homemade spaghetti, yum. We sang karaoke, belly danced, went to a crazy donut shop (pysho donuts) that had cereal on top of their triangle shaped donuts, church service for Easter Sunday, cook out and egg hunting. Gracie was pooped on Monday, but she did so good hunting eggs.

Here are a few snapshots of our weekend.

I did it!

2009-04-02T16:56:00.000-07:00

I created my own background and banner, yay!!!! It took me about an hour, but I am very pleased with my first attempt. Now I will probably change it again in a week. I'm very fickle with designs.

I'm also very pleased with my computer skills, me singing, "shes got the potion in the motion...to cure my illz...she's got skillz..."

Since I'm a SAHM now days, I've got the time if you got the dime... let me know... this may become a new hobby???? Just a thought.

Flower Child

2009-03-25T23:20:00.000-07:00

Well, again today was beautiful, so Gracie and I explored our backyard. We picked dandelions and yellow flowers, she swung on her swing (laughing hysterically), stuck sticks in the dirt, clanked rocks together, and teased Fred (who was not too happy about staying inside). I think it's time to invest in some outdoor toys, or just let our imaginations take the place of plastic.

Again, my camera was inside, my phone in my pocket, so I snapped a few with my not so great phone camera. But I had to get some pics of the Flower Child!

cupcakes and chess

2009-03-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day today! Sunshine, warm temperatures with a cool breeze, who could ask for a more delightful time to be outside. Gracie and I had lunch with Lita, Mamaw, at Santana Row. After lunch we got Gracie a cupcake and let her run around in the grass (well, it's fake grass, but really hard to tell the difference). She was a mess, chocolate on her face, running up to strangers trying to grab their bags, and trying to take other little kids toys away from them. She wiped us out chasing her around. On our way back to the car, we stopped at another area where they had big chess pieces. Gracie is a pro already, I'm telling you she is a smartie pants. Well, not really, but she did have a good time picking up the pieces and moving them around. We are now back home and relaxing from our outing.

Here are some pics, I didn't have my camera with me, so I took them with my cell phone.

the McCormick's

2009-03-21T18:35:00.000-07:00

yea, my sis has finally entered into the blog world. I'm super excited, especially because I get to see my nephew, Jacob, grow and acheive new milestones. Check out their blog and see my handsome Jakie, http://mccormickshouse.blogspot.com/

We love green beer!

2009-03-21T18:20:00.000-07:00

Finally pics from St Patty's day...

We had green beer, green peas, and green hamburgers. We love being Irish on St. Patty's Day!!!

She already has an eye on that green beer, uh oh.

This is what we call the modeling pose, blue steel style.

LA

2009-03-17T14:50:00.001-07:00

Busy, fun-filled exciting weekend, now we recover

2009-03-17T13:49:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, we drove down to LA and San Diego to see Aunt Stephanie and Uncle Jacques. We had good time, traveling in the car that much was a little bit much for Gracie, but she's a trooper.

Friday, we went to Orfila and tasted the wine, caught up with old friends and took in the beautiful views, gosh I miss that place. It wasn't the same without Leon, but the wine he created was a great reminder of how talented he was. This year's fav... white: the Lotus, always my fav, and red: the Pinot, which shocks me since I always favored the syrah, but the pinot is outstanding right now!

Later that night we headed backstage to see Jessica and Rascal Flatts in concert, it was exciting, and Jess did an outstanding job, she really hit those notes. We also saw them again on Saturday night in Irvine, her last show for the tour, and it was so cute to see Gracie watch Jess warm up. She was trying to mimick her mouth movements and would start to point and pick at her sequined shoes. We had so many great stories of Gracie that will be exciting to tell when she is older and can understand how she has hung out backstage with Jessica Simpson, not once but four times, and with Rascal Flatts, although she was pooped by the time they were on stage and was ready to go.

Our last full day there, we spent time with Steph and Jacques at their apartment and went down to the park to watch Gracie play, it was so great to see them and spend time with them. We miss them all the time.

Here are some pics from the weekend.

Oh Blog World

2009-03-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while, it's crazy around the McGuire house these days. Bubba, Gracie, and I have been really sick, but thankfully we recovered in time for our surprise trip to Texas.

We had planned to surprise my Mom for her birthday on the 6th. It was great, we got in on the 5th right before my mom came home from school, and we waited in the kitchen. After she came in and said hi to my nephew, sister, and dad, I sent Gracie walking into the living room for a complete shock affect. It worked, she couldn't believe that we were there, and we all instantly locked in for the best hug between three generations. So SURPRISE mom, we wanted to celebrate your birthday with you, and it was a great weekend!

While we were in town, we also got to visit my Nana, who was having a bad health week, but is now getting better with new medication. My cousin, Bambi, and her husband, Kevin, and there new little one, Will, meet us up there too. I got to hold Will for a long time and it reminded me of when Gracie was that small, too cute.

My favorite part was the surprise to my mom, but I loved seeing my nephew, Jacob, and seeing how much he has grown and all his new tricks. I have some photos to share, but we had three different cameras between us all, so I'm still waiting on some of them to come from my dad and sis.

Happy Birthday to "that man of mine!!!"

2009-03-01T16:36:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Bubba! I love you so much.

My poor man is sick, as am I, and Papaw just picked up Gracie to watch her while we get some rest. I feel so horrible that we all got sick, it started in the middle of the night last night, and all the birthday celebrations had to be cancelled, even his favorite, carrot cake.

I love you very much and will make it up to you on a day when we feel like celebrating.

Where does the time go?

2009-02-27T22:35:00.000-08:00

It's going to be a great weekend, I can tell already. Bubba's birthday is Sunday and we are celebrating and relaxing all weekend. Tonight we started with dinner at home, we had burgers and for desert I made a chocolate fudge to pour over our vanilla ice cream and strawberry sauce, yummy. Happy Birthday weekend hubby!!!

Here are some recent pics of Gracie:

Some more great bargains for those needing a free meal or two...

2009-02-23T21:09:00.000-08:00

Bubba also discovered that Jack in the Box and IHOP are giving away free FOOD! IHOP is giving away pancakes and JIB is giving away tacos!!!!

Here is the link for the coupons, oh, and it's for tomorrow (24th) only, so go TODAY!

http://coupon.hangintherejack.com/two-tacos.php
http://www.ihoppancakeday.com/

My Cheesy Man!

2009-02-23T21:00:00.000-08:00

Most people who know my husband, know that he is a cheese man. Well, he found a brand of cheese that is giving away samples of their cheese for writing a blog about them. I've actually had their cheese before and must say, it's good!
Here is the website, go check it out, and get a free sample for yourself too!

iledefrancecheese.com

ahhhh, so frustrated

2009-02-17T20:28:00.000-08:00

I've tried several times to upload photos on here and it's a no go. Sorry I've been boring lately, I will try to get something up soon!

My Buddies and Booty dancin

2009-02-12T14:36:00.000-08:00

Photos!

Gracie has several buddies, her dollies, her Uncle Jimmy and of course her favorite, FRED!

oh and booty dancing, woohoo!

Wow, it's been a long time since I've blogged

2009-02-11T22:52:00.001-08:00

I hadn't even looked at what is going on in the blog world in weeks. It's been busy.

Visitors:
Gabby
Grandpa
Jessica
Jakie
Jimmy
Jacques

Birthdays:
Gracie
Jimmy
Lita (Mamaw)

Bubba and I, especially Bubba, have been working. I got sick, yucky sick, though I lost some lbs. Oh and I burned my fingers really really bad, they are better now. I have a few pics to post, and will post soon. Have a wonderful Valentine's day!

My baby is 1, oh my

2009-01-28T21:21:00.000-08:00

Please excuse typos, I'm typing with burned fingers (really bad blistered fingers), long story. ...

I can not believe that a year ago I was sitting in the hospital room holding Keela Grace for the first time. I looked at her, this stranger to me, yet so much love already exploding from my inner sole. It's deep, but true, once a mom always a mom. Today, I watched this little girl, who a year ago couldn't hold up her head, now crawling and climbing with other kiddos her age. We started off the morning with waffles and bannanas, then to Gymboree for some play time, songs, dancing, and a parachute ( my favorite part). Afterwards we headed for some lunch, which the little one feel asleep through halfway through. No, we didn't take any pictures of this half of the day. The second half, Chuck E Cheese, where a kid can be a kid! Took some photos, she loved every minute of it. I'm so glad her birthday day was a sucess, she feel asleep right when we walked in the door. Here are some...

Birthday Party

2009-01-27T23:00:00.000-08:00

Jess, Jacob, Gabby and Grandpa all came out for Gracie's birthday party, they joined us and Papaw and Mamaw. It was fun! She had a backyardigan's themed party.

Happy 1st Birthday GRACIE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sorrow

2009-01-27T22:40:00.000-08:00

I worked at a vineyard, Orfila Vineyards and Winery, when I lived in San Diego. It was a great job! I was hired by two people, Ben and Leon, I just learned this past weekend that Leon, my mentor and friend, passed away. I am truly sad about this news and wish that I could have seen him one last time. Below is an article about his passing in wine spectator, and the vineyards website, www.orfila.com. He made extraordinary wine, outrageous flavors for a southern Californian wine.

Winemaker Leon Santoro Dies
San Diego County pioneer led push for quality wines in Southern California
Lynn Alley
Posted: Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Leon Santoro, winemaker at Orfila Vineyards in Escondido, Calif., and an industry pioneer in San Diego County, died of pulmonary fibrosis in a local hospital on Jan. 22. He was 58.

A native of Italy, Santoro began his career in the Napa Valley in the late 1970s, first at Louis M. Martini and then Stag's Leap Wine Cellars before joining Quail Ridge as co-owner and winemaker in 1981. Santoro orchestrated Quail Ridge's initial public offering.

In 1991, Santoro relocated to San Diego County to become winemaker at what was then Thomas Jaeger winery. He stayed on when Alejandro Orfila, former secretary general of the Organization of American States and Argentine ambassador to the United States, purchased the winery and renamed it Orfila Vineyards.

Santoro was instrumental in convincing growers in both San Diego and Riverside counties to focus on Mediterranean wine grape varieties that he believed would best express the terroir of Southern California's winegrowing regions. And he staunchly asserted that fine wine could be produced in Southern California's soils and climate.

When Santoro first arrived in San Diego County much of the vineyard acreage was planted with Chardonnay grapes, in an attempt to satisfy the demand in the market at the time.

Santoro focused on what grew best and began experimenting with varieties he knew grew well under similar hot, dry conditions in his native Italy and in southern France. He grafted Syrah and Sangiovese onto existing roots and later added Viognier, Marsanne, Roussane and Merlot to the mix.

"When I came to San Diego's San Pasqual Valley in 1991, my winemaker colleagues in Napa Valley thought I had lost my mind," he once told a reporter, in a common refrain. "Despite their pessimism, I was determined to show them that grapes for fine wines could be grown here."

Santoro is survived by his wife, Carla, and their 10-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter. The First Pacific Bank in Oceanside is accepting donations for a scholarship fund for Santoro's children.

Walking on Sunshine

2009-01-18T21:07:00.000-08:00

Gracie took 7 independent steps tonight!!!! I was too excited not to share, but we didn't have a camera or video camera near us to capture the moment. Oh well, we will get it next time.

Beautiful Day

2009-01-16T18:30:00.000-08:00

Today was too pretty to stay indoors (80 degrees), and why would we when we live so close to so many beautiful outdoor adventures. This afternoon we drove up to Pacifica and then drove down hwy 1 to take it all in. We went out on the pier and to the Taco Bell on the beach (one of the nicest views for a fast food restaurant ever!), their "drive thru" is on the beach side so surfers can walk up and order after a wave. Gracie, "green snot face" was her nickname today, is still recovering from a cold, so we took it easy on her. Here is our collection of photos for the day...

I think I put up more pictures than write, oh well, everyone loves pictures.

two more weeks, yay

2009-01-14T18:34:00.000-08:00

Gracie turns 1 in two weeks! She is the most adorable little girl ever, I am so in love with her.

Pump it up

2009-01-10T22:45:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed our day today! We went to a birthday party for our cousin's kiddos pump it up party. There were lots of bounce houses and slides. Gracie wanted to run around with the bigger kids, but I made sure she got her share of bouncing in too! Happy Birthday to Santiago and Analisa!

Ahhh, this is the life!

2009-01-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

I got a gift last year of an 80 min long relaxation massage for my birthday, well I finally took some time out for myself and got it done today! It was fabulous! My first professional massage, and it was worth every minute. Thank you Jim and Lita, I finally got my pampering.

Ribbons, paper and cheers

2009-01-02T11:42:00.000-08:00

Home Warm Home

2009-01-02T00:35:00.000-08:00

We made it home! After a difficult decision to leave tonight before the storm hits, we made the 4 hour journey back home safe and sound. We loved Tahoe, it's so beautiful there, and such a great way to bring in the new year with some fresh freezing air. It's late, but I was looking at the pics and wanted to share a few with you guys, I will be posting up more and also Christmas photos too.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T13:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone. We are staying in Lake Tahoe for the new year with Jacques and Stephanie. We have lots of photos to post and lots of updates, but instead I would rather take the gondola ride up to the top of the mountain to take more photos to share with you all. We pray for a good 2009 for family and friends.

Gotta love quotes....

2008-12-18T17:23:00.000-08:00

An old (not in age, well that too ;) if you count 27 as old) good friend of mine is celebrating her birthday today, Happy Birthday Holly, and I saw a quote on her myspace page that made me think, "Heck Ya." So I'm sharing it with all of those that stop by our blog.

"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, martini in the other, totally worn out and screaming,"WHOO HOO, what a ride!"

As always, I hope everyone is doing well, and have a Merry Merry Christmas.

Holiday Cheer

2008-12-15T18:49:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Ch-ch-ch-chinatown-brrrr-brrr

2008-12-13T18:46:00.000-08:00

We braved the cold San Francisco chill today and visited Chinatown and Treasure Island.

I had been to Chinatown before with my dad when we came her on our father/daughter trip back in '99, but it had been awhile and I had been wanting to go back. Afterwards we went to Treasure Island just in time to see the sun setting over SF, it was a beautiful view but very windy. It was pretty cold out today so we had Gracie all kinds of bundled up and enclosed in her stroller, she was almost sweating.

Bubba driving in crazy downtown traffic, isn't he so cute when he's frustrated!

Jumpin jumperoo

2008-12-10T15:47:00.000-08:00

She's at it again in her Jumperoo!

Oh and yes, we had a bump on the head, ouch!

And of course putting my manger scene up is one of my favorite things to do during this season, so I snapped a few photos off of my small but growing group.

Dear Santa...

2008-12-06T16:18:00.000-08:00

All I want for Christmas...

Little lady in red

2008-12-06T10:26:00.000-08:00

She is the most beautiful little girl ever! Her daddy and I love her so much, when she smiles both of our hearts light up with joy. We hope that you guys enjoy seeing her pictures as much as we love to share them.

This is why our coffee table has to be clear at all times. She pushed her chair/stool over to the table stood up and cleared it off for us.

Flying Baby

2008-12-03T22:20:00.001-08:00

blow out the candles and goodnight

2008-12-03T21:22:00.000-08:00

Thank you my dear husband for your post earlier and for making my birthday a wonderful one. It was such a nice day, so relaxing and full of love. Especially after the day we had before.

Let me start by describing the day before...

We were switching cable companies, I was in Redwood taking care of the kiddos, Bubba was in charge of the house. I had several, several frantic calls from him saying Fred was missing and that he had been searching for hours. I could tell he was a mess and was trying to work and help the cable guy out all at the same time. So I left early to come home to the chaos. I had never seen the house so torn apart! Finally after a few minutes of searching I found Fred in a closet hiding very well, but I knew I could find the stinker. Calmed Bubba down, let him get back to work, and tried my best to get the house back into working order. When we finally got to bed we were exhausted!

So this morning,

Gracie and I snuggled in bed and slept in till 8:30 am, wow, it was nice. We took our time to get up and get breakfast, talked to family and friends, looked at the several birthday regards on facebook and myspace, had lunch with dad, watched a movie (Desperado, my favorite) and then went to dinner. Wow, what a day! I enjoyed it very much. So, thank you again Bubba, and thank you to everyone who helped make it special!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELIZABETH!!!

2008-12-03T06:39:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say Happy Birthday to you, thought this would be a pretty good place to start. I love you very much and can't wait to get back home to see you.

-Bubba

Tis the season for the ax...

2008-11-30T22:03:00.000-08:00

Gobble Gobble,

We had Stephanie, Jacques and Momma Trish here for Thanksgiving, which was delicious! We had the best turkey ever! It was also nice to be able to invite them into our house and show them where we live now!

Then Today we got our Christmas tree!

Aunt Libby, Uncle Bubba and Little Cousin Gracie, too

2008-11-24T17:32:00.000-08:00

WELCOME, BIENVENUE, Lil Jacob Thompson McCormick! He was born today somewhere around 11am, weighing in at 7'9 and 20 inches long. Momma, Jessica, is doing great, just recovering and taking it all in. I am jumping with JOY, thank you Lord! I can't wait to hold him and give him kisses.

Already a G

Deck the "Row"

2008-11-18T23:54:00.000-08:00

Santana Row:

First, I want to start with a Thank YOU!!!! to answered prayers. Good Health to Papaw.

Second, we went down to Santana Row to see the Christmas tree lighting and see "Santa Claus". It was a little overwhelming with so many people there, but Gracie enjoyed seeing all the lights and sounds.

Third, please pray for the safe delivery of my nephew Jacob, and Jessica, she is getting induced this coming Monday. I am so thrilled to be an Aunt, and I know how stressful it is to prepare, go into labor, and be a new mom. What a thrill too. I know Jessica will be an amazing mother. I wish I could be there, but it makes my first time to see his smiling face even more meaningful. I can not wait to meet you, Jake!

Gracie got a new toy, for being so cute! :)

True Blue

2008-11-16T17:43:00.001-08:00

Just got home and had to post up the pics of our day. We were given free tickets to the 49ers game in Candlestick park, so of course we had to go. We wanted to take Gracie to her first pro football game. 49ers won! But we couldn't go and not support our true blood, blue, go COWBOYS. Gracie had so much fun at the game, especially watching the seaguls flying above us, that was her highlight.

Concannon

2008-11-10T18:16:00.000-08:00

We went to Concannon Vineyard and Winery yesterday with Jim and Lita, it was such a beautiful day and so relaxing to taste some great wines. Concannon link

Rain Rain Come Again TODAY!

2008-11-03T12:58:00.000-08:00

This weekend we got a lot of rain, which we hadn't had in awhile, and Bubba and I love it when it rains. We want it to rain some more, please. Gracie was under the weather, and Bubba started a fire, and we all did nothing but watch movies and snuggle. Great times. We did go out for some coffee and soup, and Gracie got to show off her rain coat (that we thought she would grow out of before it ever rained).

Love 'em trick or treaters

2008-11-01T16:30:00.001-07:00

Ode to a sister

2008-10-31T23:34:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jessica, Jess, Jessy, Jay, J Bird

Today is my sister's, um hum, 30th B-day. I'm sure she appreciates me telling the world. Although, it's not a big deal, I'm three years behind her, and will soon be approaching that milestone in life.

My sister:

Aunt
Wife
Daughter
Friend
Sister
and very soon to be Mother

I love you Jess, and always miss you and wish that I could be there to celebrate with you. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Argh, I wish I could be there! Tell Josh to give you a good squeeze for me!

Fires and Opossums, oh my

2008-10-30T22:55:00.000-07:00

"Interesting night we had tonight, hun."

We both had long days, but looked forward to the evening as the rain drizzled on our patio roof and Bubba started our first fire in the fire place. It smelled wonderful. Like camping and Christmas all rolled into one.

The past few nights have been rough for Bubba as he received the news of a loss of a good friend back in Texas. I didn't know him, but felt a loss for my husband as he once again tried to stand strong. We have had what seems like a lot of losses in the past few years.

But tonight was full of warmth and laughter. Gracie had just fallen asleep and the fire was dying, Bubba jumped up and ran for the patio light. I didn't hear it, but he swore there was someone walking around on our roof. I told him he was crazy and that it was probably that opossum that I saw in our backyard the other day. Upon further investigation, Bubba discovered several (we think three) opossums taking shelter wedged between our patio roof and overhang. It was pretty funny to see their little feet sprawled out as we all starred at each other in shock.

Anyway, what is most important is the photos...

9 MONTHS OLD ALREADY

2008-10-28T22:14:00.000-07:00

Yay, Congratulations Gracie for surviving 9 months with us crazy new parents.

I can't believe she is already 9 months old!!!!!!

Poor Romo has to watch Brad from the sidelines

2008-10-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

We are supporting Romo today as the Cowboys play on with out him, and he has to watch Johnson crum up his team. Boo, poor Romo, we love ya Tony!

Oh pumpkin, my pumpkin

2008-10-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

We took Gracie today to a pumpkin patch in Half Moon Bay, it was such a fun day. Plus, I had to get her pic in a pile of pumpkins to commemorate her first Halloween. I couldn't figure out why she wouldn't look at me for the pic, but was told later on it was because there were others (strangers) taking her photo behind me. So, of course they have all the good face shots.

Keeping Busy

2008-10-22T15:04:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy these last few weeks here are some updates:

Bubba:
Work, work, and more work. He just won an award for selling over plan for the year with Barnes Distribution. Congratulations Bubba! I bet there are those out there that wish they could use your great salesmanship.

Gracie:
Crawling, pointing, clapping, waving, saying "momma" and "Bubba", and very soon standing on her own (she has got the whole pulling up thing down perfect). Oh and my dad swears he heard her say "bye bye" while waving. Swinging on her new swing, given to her by her Aunt Jess and Uncle Josh. Oh, and eating apples whole, ha, not really but she likes to suck on them.

Me:
I have just started a position as a part time nanny, Grace and I go watch two boys twice a week (one 4 months old, the other 2 years old). This is almost enough said, but we are also starting in a new mommies club (Awesome Moms of South Bay) and meet with them whenever we have free time. We are also meeting with a group for New Moms at Baby Buzz once a week. We try and keep ourselves entertained.

Collectively:
We just got back from Texas this last weekend for my sister's baby showers. The one on Saturday was hosted by myself, my mom, and Jess's mother-in-law, Colleen. Jess was loved and adored by new and old friends and family from near and far away. Saturdays shower was at Spice in Waco. One thing that we didn't get to, which is on a must do list for our next Waco visit is see Baylor's campus, it has greatly expanded.

Jess has been through a lot the past five years of trying for a bundle of joy. Jacob is an answer to our prayers, he is due at the end of November, but may come before then. I don't want to share much, since it is not my story to tell, but watching my sister go through all that she has, has made me appreciate her strength. She endures a weekly painful shot and a daily worry that something might go wrong, and on a sort of bed rest. Now, she is at the closing line and so far everything is going just right, I pray every day that my dear sweet nephew will enter into this world in good health. I know that he will be loved and adored by us all and that the story of what his parents went through to finally be able to hold him into their arms will at that time be worth all the wait and heartache.

Sorry this one was long winded, just felt that I needed to share a glimpse of what was going on in our world. I hope all are doing well. Drop us a line, we love to hear updates!

To Diaper or not to Diaper, that is the question...

2008-10-14T22:50:00.000-07:00

For those that don't know us too well as parents, we take equal parts in taking care of our sweet baby. I bathe her, and he dresses her for bed. After she is all cozy in her pajamas, I calm her, read to her, sing to her, anything to soothe her into sleep. Tonight was an interesting version of our normal routine. As she quieted down in my arms, I felt a warm sensation running down my leg. My first thought... "did I just my wet my pants?" Second thought was "how much pee can leak through a diaper?" Further investigation into the mysterious warm spot concluded in Gracie, diaperless in her PJ's. How does this happen, one might ask, my answer, point a finger. My responsibilities are to bathe and soothe, his are to diaper and clothe, I guess he tried to skip some steps. As my husband laughed hysterically at his error, I striped her down to stare at a bare baby bottom. Bubba kindly ran a shower for me, while he cleaned, diapered, clothed Gracie. I know, interesting story, but thought it would be one for the books, hey, it could have been worse.

Cool, Crisp Fall day

2008-10-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

We went to the park on Saturday to a birthday party celebrating a cousin's daughter's 10th birthday. We had a great time and got to dress Gracie up in a new fall outfit, since it was really chilly. Happy Birthday Little Michelle!

Cha Cha Cha

2008-10-10T19:24:00.000-07:00

Lita and Jim got Gracie some maracas from Cabo, she loves them!

2nd year and growing stronger together

2008-10-06T21:46:00.000-07:00

Yay! Bubba and I are celebrating our second anniversary tomorrow. I feel like we got married yesterday, but at the same time like it was ages ago.

I love my hubby so much! Thank you for asking me to marry you, it's the question of my life, the best question, my favorite question. I would say yes again in a heart beat. I will always be your number one fan! Love you- wifey

Apple bottom

2008-10-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

So I missed my Martha idea for the last two weeks, here is what my weekend project from Martha is going to be...

I'm taking a plain onsie and cutting an apple in half; using a stamp create apple designs. I am also going to get some hand towels and do the same for a fun fall theme. I will have to take photos to share!

Texas pics

2008-10-02T21:43:00.001-07:00

My Nana, Gracie's great Nana

Pointing

Yay, Gracie finally got to meet Lauren

Joshica

Popsicle

Outlaw bib, eating at Huck's, best catfish ever!!

Sharing ice cream with great Nana

Us at Ross's wedding, me with my kick a** extensions, I think I want to grow my hair out now.

Chillin TX style, be back soon

2008-09-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

We are all three in Dallas, just saw good friends Ross Trull and the new Sarah Trull take their vows this last Saturday, congrats to them both. So excited that they found love for each other to share for a lifetime, and we were so glad to be there and apart of their special day. We will be back in Cali soon, so I will update more later. We have gotten to see a few friends and family that we have missed very much, it's so wonderful to see everyone, wish we could have seen even more loved ones.

OH, by the way, Gracie crawled on all four tonight (the day she turned 8 months). We tried to video, but she stopped as soon as we started videoing. She also tried very hard to stand and almost made it (butt straight up in the air), also, she is now pointing at everything with her finger (soooo cute). Loads more to share, can't wait till I have more time to write!

Yesterday

2008-09-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

Was Aunt Stephanie's birthday! We wanted to be with her to celebrate, but we will get to see her later this week when we are all together in Dallas. Stephanie has her reunion and we are going to a good friend Ross's wedding (Bubba is going to be a groomsmen). We are so happy for Ross and Sarah, we know that this week is stressful yet exciting. We also hope that Stephanie had a wonderful day yesterday and celebrated well, we know that one birthday wish came true and that was to be with her man, Jacques, welcome back to the states!

That wasn't the only birthday we celebrated yesterday, we went to Miguel's birthday party, Gracie had lots of fun eating snow cones, watermelon and watching all the kiddos bounce on the big bouncer, she also gave it a try.

What?! More pictures of Gracie?!

2008-09-19T05:58:00.000-07:00

and more...

Rant

2008-09-17T23:40:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhh, have you ever just been frustrated with a particular person but couldn't do anything about it? Even if you could explain your frustration it would probably do more damage than good. Ahhhhh, at least there is blogging to express a feeling without having to expose private issues. I realize that blogs are open for the masses to see and there is no stopping anyone to view what I post, but at least I can still cry out, yet keep some privacy at the same time. Gotta love blogging.

Why say you care but act like you don't, my rhetorical question. Thanks for the release, sorry for the innocent bystanders, which is pretty much everyone who reads my blogs (including my always wonderful and supportive husband), even my non-friends.

Gracie

2008-09-17T17:12:00.000-07:00

Everything Martha

2008-09-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

I watch Martha's show everytime I get a chance, well today's show was all about Blogging! So I thought, how perfect that I blog about Martha today. The thing that I like the most about her is her craftiness, and her easy recipes (sometimes).

So, every Wednesday is going to be Martha tip day...

Today's Martha tip is an alternative to bed skirts, all she did was use another fitted sheet to put over the box spring. I love this idea, so simple, yet it works great!

Go Gracie, Go!

2008-09-15T21:05:00.000-07:00

Gracie has a blast over at Papaw's house, but now she has speed (well, not yet, but she will once she realizes she can move herself). Papaw's introduction to Porsche's to Gracie, he traded in his Porsche for hers, haha.

Just Pooped!

2008-09-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

We are HOME finally! We officially moved in our house on Friday and spent our first night in our new room. It was an interesting night, but we were so tired that all the weird noises of a house didn't even phase us. One thing that has been a nice thing for me, but a disaster for Bubba's is the lack of AC. It's a traditional CA home built without an AC unit, we keep the doors open and wait for the breeze to come in, at night time it gets really cold and we both freeze, but the afternoons the sun beats in and warms us up to a nice 75 degrees and Bubba freaks out. Those that know him know that he always keeps his house at a cool 68 degrees, so this difference makes him a little grumpy. But it is something that he will adjust to and thankfully winter is on the way. One thing that I love is that we have two blue jays living in our backyard and they are beautiful. Also, we utilized our lime tree when we cracked open our Corona's in celebration of finishing the last load.

We are so in love with our house and everything is going so well. FINALLY, we are home.

Half Moon Bay

2008-09-05T22:50:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful Friday! Bubba, Lita, Jim, Granny, Dee, Gracie and myself went to Half Moon Bay at the Ritz Carlton for lunch, and then Bubba, Gracie and I went to a beach to put our feet in the freezing Pacific ocean. I have really enjoyed Granny's visit and listening to all of the stories that she told on the whole McGuire family, I've learned a lot. :)

I've also had the opportunity to spend a lot of time with Jim and Lita, while Granny was in town, which has been wonderful to see them bond with Gracie more and more.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Blue Monday

2008-09-01T21:22:00.000-07:00

So much going on right now in McGuire land, Granny is in town for the week, Stephanie came in town, Lori's engagement party, and the Monterey Aquarium.

She had a blast this weekend, especially looking at all the fishies!

7 months old

2008-08-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

Happy 7 month day Gracie girl!

She had her check up the other day: weight 17lbs 7oz, height 27 1/2 inches

Already a little lady, poor little one was exhausted after swimming this afternoon,

100th post! Sacramento, California's State Fair

2008-08-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

Yay, it's my 100th post!

We are exhausted today...last night we drove up to Sacramento to the Fair to see Aunt Stephanie. It was blistering hot, we weren't prepared for the "Texas" heat, but luckily Aunt Steph let us backstage to cool off. Here are some photos...

Growing up Gracie

2008-08-24T23:39:00.000-07:00

Here are some more,,,, pics of Gracie, I know I'm obsessed with photos of her, but I can't get over how big she is getting.

TOY OVERLOAD,

Daddy dress-up day, Dragon, Rawr

Papaw learning the secrets to diaper change

GO ROMO GO, that's my man!

Little lady in blue