31

Today I am 31. It seems a bit anticlimactic. Maybe because 30 felt like such a big deal, and 31 just feels like the next year after 30. I'm not one to get bugged about getting older. I don't feel old (except for the lines around my eyes, my decreasing energy level, and falling down the stairs the other day, bruising the heck out of right side of my body and it taking longer than usual to heal). I think I've had a pretty awesome life so far. Beyond staying at home with my children, the future is more difficult to see. I have two major questions of the future... alright, way more than two, but these are the first that come to mind. One, when exactly will I travel the world? I've pretty much seen the entire United States and cannot believe I haven't made it to Europe. And two, what will happen with my career? So much has been invested in practicing, auditioning, improving, and performing. How will it make its way back into my life? Or is some other path waiting to present itself, still unknown to me? For now I will set these mysteries aside, eat some cake, do a little shopping, and be grateful for my family and friends, the adventures I've had and those yet to come. Here's to hoping I have at least another 31 years to celebrate.

Last Days of Summer

Or at least it is beginning to feel that way with friends going back to school and September right around the corner.  Adam is on hiatus these next two weeks so we are trying to soak up all the end-of-summer fun possible. We're treating this time like a little vacation, planning daily excursions and lining up a few babysitters. Today we spent the day at Zuma Beach in Malibu building sand castles, digging for sand crabs, splashing in the water, and thanks to Adam I even got to sit on the beach and read for a while with no interruption. This is one of the best parts of Southern California living.

Doing the Work

I signed up for pilates class today. Time to kick my butt into gear and get rid of the rest of this baby weight.  I'm a bit intimidated to get back into class since I'm obviously not as strong as I was when I left a year ago. But I am seriously looking forward to reclaiming this body as my own, and getting in a little me time as well.

Blog Blocked

While I'm waiting for inspiration, here are some recent photos of us hangin' around the house.

You Know You're a Bad Mom When...

You butt heads impatiently with your whiney toddler all morning long, complaining about the "terrible twos", only to realize around lunch time that he has a fever of 102.3!  Then your sympathy (and the mommy guilt) finally kicks in.  

Planting the Seed

We are about to embark on unmarked territory so to speak. Slowly we are beginning to introduce Tyler to the concept of using the toilet. In no way do I think he will be one to quickly potty train. Change is hard for Tyler. Things take time with him. So I am starting to hard core pre-potty train. We've got a book and a little potty that he sits on occasionally, but basically we're just talking about it. He is intrigued and fascinated with the idea of doing the deed in the big potty, which is good. But I must say, this is one mommy adventure I am not looking forward to.

New Moon

Somewhat against my will I am now unfortunately hooked.  I'm totally looking forward to the movie, out this November.

Matching Mohawks

Audrey and Kaleb's first official play date.

Big Brother

End of Summer Read

Twilight! After months and months of listening to the Young Women in my ward (and many other friends) obsess over this book I have finally decided to join the masses and start reading.  It better be good!

A Much Needed Night Out

After being inspired by Emily's post I'm so glad I bought tickets for Les Miserables In Concert tonight at the Hollywood Bowl. Adam's parents are going to watch the kids (thank you!). No babies, burp cloths, diapers, sippy cups, or snacks. Well, maybe some dessert to share during intermission from Aroma, but at least that snack doesn't involve me carrying around goldfish, string cheese, or animal crackers. I'm looking forward to a night of good music, good weather, and great company. Just me and Adam.

I Heart the Olympics

Is there anything better than the overly sentimental storylines, gorgeous shots of China's countryside, dramatic anchors, and two weeks of something to actually watch on TV during television's summer drought? I am not a huge sports fan any other time of year, but the Olympic athletes do inspire me to get stronger. And I am a sucker for all the drama NBC tries to create. Totally lame confession: I often imagine myself on the podium with my gold medal when I hear "The Star-Spangled Banner". Seriously lame. And I am nowhere close to ever winning one... just fun to fantasize I guess. I don't know why, but I am totally into the Olympics.

Bye Bye Uncle Miles

The last of our summer visitors has left.  It's always nice to get back to routine, but I'm a little sad.  We had the best time with Miles.  He won the hearts of my kids since he's pretty much a big kid himself. We ate some great food, spent the entire day at the beach, and did a lot of catching up.  I was even able to go out one night thanks to Adam! Thinking we were going to see a movie we hit the Americana and instead randomly saw what turned out to be a crazy rockin' En Vogue concert.  Remember them? Blast from the past. And of course Miles knew all the lyrics to every song. Hilarious. Tyler woke up today wondering where Miles had gone... so sad. We miss you already Miles. Give us a few weeks and we'll be ready for all of our fall visitors... any takers?

This is our 'Brangelina' shot.  We only need about four more kids in tow.

Delicious!

Miles brought me some of my favorite pumpkin scones all the way from Alice's Teacup in New York City.  Who knew they traveled so well?  Not necessarily the best way to indulge while you're trying to lose baby weight, but I can make an exception.  Now if I could just get a cup of their herbal chai tea I'd be all set.

Miles

Another of my best friends from New York is coming to visit today. Miles and I met in college and thanks to school and two seasons of summer stock, we have performed in twenty shows together. He is like family to me and has to be the funniest person I know. I am so looking forward to spending a few days with him, playing with the kids, catching up, and laughing a ton. Here are some vintage photos from the 'old days':

Me & Miles a few years back holding Kiley's baby, Grace.  

H.M.S Pinafore at CLOC

The Music Man. My wig is horrible!

Brigadoon.  Do we look hot or what?

With Adriana at CLOC. Not exactly sure what is going on in this picture, but I'm loving the matching outfits and overalls. 

Panic

I just locked myself out of the apartment with my kids still inside. They were both fast asleep and I was on my way down to the laundry room when a rush of panic swept over me. I realized I didn't bring my keys. Oh, I knew this day would come. Call me a negligent mom, but I often leave one or both of them in the apartment to throw in a load of laundry or take out the garbage. Luckily I was able to use my neighbor's phone to call Adam and he came home and let me in. The kids didn't even notice I was gone, but those fifteen minutes seemed like the longest of my life. I am now bingeing on dark chocolate to calm my nerves. Guess it's time to plant a hide-a-key or something.

New Stroller

I am now the proud owner of the Joovy Caboose Ultralight. It's the third in my collection of strollers and thus far, I am loving it. It's not for everyone, but it's perfect for my family. Tyler can jump in and out, or choose to sit. Audrey's car seat fits nicely up front, although I'm more looking forward to the sitting up option. It has an awesome basket underneath, a cup holder for me up top, a double canopy for both kids, and is so easily maneuverable even with one hand. The downside right now is it barely fits in my trunk (add that to the list of reasons why we'll be purchasing a new car in the next six months or so). 

 Here's the classic view from my end:

My Girls

Happy Birthday to two of my best friends, Jen (on the far left) and Adriana (between me and Maureen). A special shout out to Adriana who is turning the big 3-0! Welcome to the club. What would I do without you girls? If only I were in the city I would take you to Bebe's for pedicures and then to Alice's for tea and scones. Ah, the perfect girl's day out. Just like old times. Miss you both everyday and wish I were there to help you celebrate. Have a great one!