maui 2015

Oh, Maui. A certain love of my life. We really had one of our favorite times as a family in the sun and surf. Here's a sneak peek at some of our favorite moments:

unbroken

I just finished what may be the best book I'll ever read. I genuinely hope not, because I do intend to live a very very long life.

Laura Hillenbrand beautifully encompassed the massive universe that is the human spirit, one's ability to persevere, and the beauty in redemption.

I learned so much of our nations history during WWII, enjoyed countless moments where her descriptive writing put me right at the scene: a brain-full of colors and sounds and tears.

This is one of those books that will stay with me for the rest of my life, help define my perspectives, and shape my beliefs in the undeniable goodness and evil of people.

my new motto.

abby & leah visit - washington + oregon.

It's a funny thing having 9 sisters...especially with age gap ranges from 2 to 20 years apart. Each relationship becomes one that is uniquely theirs. I think that these relationships also get harder and harder to maintain well when you don't live in the same state as any of them. The littles grow up and I didn't even notice. The middles went to college and I almost forgot, and the oldies are having kids and living their lives so very far away from my own.

So, having the opportunity for some of my youngest sisters to come down for a 2-week visit was really a lot of fun. Abby and Leah were here for a summer get-away, and we got to play tourist in the Seattle area, and then have them join us for a super-fun road-trip through Oregon.

Our first stop was in Bend, where we loaded up on the outdoor mountain excursions: white water rafting, horseback riding, river floating, miniature golfing, swimming, hot tubbing, and eating. Oh! there was a lot of eating! What I learned: Leah's a little uneasy on a horse, and Abby likes to walk very fast.

Next up was Seaside. Surrounded by absolutely gorgeous sandy beaches, downtown has quite the throwback vibe goin on; Old fashioned bumper cars...carousel...tilt-a-whirl...cotton candy...chocolate shops...and salt water taffy! Beach bumming, wanderings, reading, more hot tubbing, and eating was the definite cure.

My new motto: 'Eat Well, Travel Often' was most definitely made proud!

Here are all of the pics. Password: Finch.

And, here's a slideshow of our favorite GoPro clips.

easter 2014

Easter is one of those fun holidays where you can throw together any and all pastel colors and it works. The kids both really understood that the Easter Bunny was coming this year, and even Christian asked if he was "scary" or "nice". Pretty sure he thinks he's nice...now that he left him toys and candy.

We celebrated a week early this year, as we'll be in San Diego for Ron & Diane's wedding next weekend. Easter candy high...bunny pancakes...church...and then, as usual...the crash. I don't know why I always forget about the post-Easter meltdown. Too much candy...too much excitement...followed by early bedtimes. But what FUN it really is! ; )

HERE are the pics.

meh-hee-koh

Mexico was bliss. We're going back as soon as we possibly can. Both parents and kids got everything they needed and wanted for a truly unforgettable vacation from reality:

Kids: Endless sand, full days of pool and ocean waves, playing with monkeys, swimming with dolphins, holding iguanas, eating endless quesadillas, and roaming freely under the warm warm sun. 

Parents: Bottomless margaritas, Mayan massages, seeing Wonders of the World, breakfast in the sand, late night terrace hot tubbing, and the complete absence of having to clean or cook...anything!

The kids were completely exhausted every single night that they were asleep the minute their heads hit the pillow, leaving so much more fantastic time to lounge and chat and watch movies and drink wine and get some much much needed sleep ourselves. 

Jonathan went scuba diving with sea turtles, I did some fantastic snorkeling, and the kids practically slept in their swim floaties. All-in-all, a great time. 

For wayyyyy too many pics of the whole vacay, click HERE. Password: Finch

And, here is a video we put together of our favorite clips experimenting with the new GoPro camera: Set your resolution for 1080p HD watching. 

happy heart day.

avery taylor is 4! christian timothy is 2!

How did this happen? How in the world do I have have two kids old enough to run around and eat birthday cake, and open presents, and have actual friends, and have actual birthday parties? They both had their party this year at Pump It Up indoor inflatables warehouse, where so many of our great friends got to join in the celebration. A truly fun and exhausting time was had by all.

This year, Avery has really grown up a lot. She has quickly morphed into her role as big sister, and is now pretty good at being my second pair of eyes and ears for Christian. She continues to be conniving. She continues to be incredibly sweet. She continues to be my ultra-independent, curious, and super-smart little girl. She loves doing any creative activity under the sun. She loves animals. And, she really loves being given a job, or put in-charge of something. Miss Leader in the making.

Christian is now a boy. Before, he was just a baby. He is the cutest thing to ever look up at you with those huge blue eyes, and itty bitty dimples, that a person can hardly stand not immediately chewing on his face. Jonathan and I find ourselves looking at each other so often in simultaneous recognition of his adorable-ness. He is our little gem right now. Absolutely obsessed with Jake and the Neverland Pirates, he runs the house with a sword and a hook. He would eat Pirates Booty chips all day long if we let him, and as long as he gets to hang with the big kids, he has a smile on his face.

I feel so lucky to have such sweet and fun kids. They are our everything, and more.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

a seattle christmas.

Avery and Christian were both old enough this year to really appreciate the magic of Christmas; the season, the food, family, and fun. The anticipation was all the rage, and Santa just Could Not Get Here Soon Enough!

The entire Finch family was here with us in Seattle, and all had a great time...dinner at Meredith & Brenner's new house, Santa presents at ours with aunt Ashley, more cinnamon rolls, and way too much wine. 

I'm starting to think that I may even need to use separate "Santa" wrapping paper next year for the always curious, intrigued, and never-outwitted Avery Taylor. I can rise to the challenge, little girl. Just call me the Minister of Magic.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

an alaskan thanksgiving.

We got everything we wanted and needed out of a winter wonderland away for Thanksgiving: a snuggly warm home, mountains of snow to play in, and oh so many family members to catch up with over a glass of wine!

Jonathan and I drove the kids down to Papa and Grandma's cabin, and stopped off at the Big Game park to see some serious antlers. Grandkids helped grandma roll out dough and bake her world famous cinnamon rolls. We trudged through the snow to watch some fantastic basketball downtown at the Shootout. Jonathan and I had a few great date nights out.

Halibut at Simons and Brewhouse. Pizza at Moose's Tooth. Libations at Whales Tail. Done, and done. Another perfect trip home with great company, ridiculous food, and warm memories.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

happy 38th, jonathan!

tooth fairy tales

We're not quite there yet- to the whole tooth fairy exchange business- but I'm always thinking ahead, and just ordered this absolutely adorable, appropriately-fairy-sized, completely magical little piece of painted wood made into a door... Comes with a ladder, and a tooth pot, and a scrolled note from Miss Fairy herself.

Avery is SO very into fairies right now, and Tinkerbelle, and magic flying sparkle dust, and glittery wings. I just love it. Here's hoping (when the time comes) this is a big hit!

notre dame, in

The next sentimental stop was...well...golden! Returning to South Bend for the first time since Jonathan and I met there (almost 7 years ago) was pretty surreal. I showed Avery & Christian where I used to live at Saint Mary's, prompting conversations like this:

Avery: "Mama! You lived in a castle!? Like Cinderella?"
Me: "Yes, pretty much just like Cinderella. Only there wasn't any air conditioning, and I shared a bathroom with 20 other girls, and we stayed up late watching scary movies and drinking lots of beverages."
Avery: "Oh, that sounds SO fun! Dad- I when I get grown up I want to live in a castle like Rapunzel too, and have popcorn parties with my sippy cup of juice!"

While on campus, it was the strangest feeling of time lived and spent. When I was living in this spot, on this lawn, at a much younger age, I experienced this space so very differently than how I did now. The person that I was in this place last was young. I hadn't met the man I was to marry yet. I didn't have any kids, or even a thought of what those kids would be like, or how my life would be different. It was almost a time-warp sort of feeling; strange, nastalgic, grateful, and memorable.

I felt so lucky to have had the opportunity to go to such an unbelievable school, at a time when I didn't even realize it. Only years after leaving have I slowly realized in many different fashions just how much I gained from my experience there; unbelievable friendships, great business and social connections & introductions, a continuing foundation for faith, and a lifetime of pride in both the SMC and ND school traditions. It's a great world-wide family to be apart of. I'm also happy to have found someone in a spouse that gets what it means to bleed blue and gold. Jonathan finished his MBA at ND in '07 just before we moved to Chicago.

This trip was also made that much sweeter as we met up with great friends, the Boro family, in the Bend. With a total of 5 kids under the age of four, we toured the campuses, went tailgating, and for the first time, started our very own family tradition under the golden dome. Watching Avery and Christian run around the green in front of Touchdown Jesus...seeing Avery kneel and fold her hands and say a prayer down at the Grotto...and watching Christian learn to do the Fighting Irish arm pumps from the real leprechaun himself...Priceless.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

chicago, il

City lights, skyscrapers, fantastic food, and kid-friendly wanderings. I just love Chicago. SO much. We miss living there - amongst easy access to funky cocktail lounges, historic architecture, mid-west mentality, and the best Italian food west of Italy.

The kids loved exploring the Lincoln Park Zoo. And, we soaked up walking the lakeside trail - home of our once-upon-a-time half marathon training grounds. It's really the city where Jonathan and I fell in love, and started planning our lives together...so needless to say, we had quite a bit of sentimental excursions: Taking the kids to eat at our 'ol favorite Thai restaurant Penny's Noodles, touring our old Bucktown and Wicker Park neighborhoods, hitting up Navy Pier, and a fabulous date night to Rose Angelis (home of the big-as-your-head tiramisu).

Warm weather, always something to do, and two terrific little travelers made our stop in Chi-town a fantastic one.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

disneyland - aneheim, ca

Sticky-sugary hands, sweaty sun-kissed cheeks, whining, crying, and waiting in lines. It's really a magical place! Just kidding. Well, not really. All of that non-fun is definitely included, but I will say that despite the occasional sugar-induced meltdown, we really DID have a magical time. I give you scenerio number 253:

(After 8+ hours in the park, a whiny Avery wants to be carried everywhere, and just as we make our way to the exit, she spots....Minnie Mouse!)

Avery: "Mama! Mama! There's Minnie! Let's go see her!"

Me: "Sweetie, we can wait in that really really really long line and meet Minnie, or we can go right now to have some yummy dinner and you can have your chocolate sucker and cotton candy for dessert."

(Long pause of deliberation, with a look of exhaustion on her face.)

Avery: "Ok, mama. Let's meet Minnie."

Me: "Uhhhhh. OK! We're here. Let's get in line!"

And then A & C slept for 12 hours that night. And, so did mom & dad.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

laguna beach, ca

Warm sun, silky sand, big waves, and grandma Judy! Avery and Christian couldn't have been more excited. After a stroll down Laguna Beachs' main drag, a local Mexican dinner, and way too much ice cream, we ventured onto the beach for a nice stroll, sand playing, and a few educational talks about waves and how they will come back to you (you don't have to run out to them, Christian).

It's always fun to watch the kids experience elements that they aren't quite used to. In true gender role fashion, Avery combed the sand for pretty shells while Christian picked up every slimy piece of seaweed, and gooey snail remains, and dug in the mud, and threw rocks. All had fun!

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

newport beach, ca

Newport was the determined middle-ground destination, located perfectly between the wedding we were attending in LA, and Disneyland in Anaheim. It turned out to be a fantastic spot for us! The Marriott Coastal Villas were packed with multiple pools, game rooms, playgrounds, and easy access to family-friendly restaurants and beaches. Avery (the Fish) was in heaven in the pool, and would have stayed in the water all day/every day if we'd only let her.

Avery: "Look, mama! My fingers are sooooo wrinkly!"
Me: "You don't say. You've only been swimming for 4 hours."

This was our first stop on the trip, and was filled with some much needed R&R.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

halloween

Oh, to be 3 years old again and can't help but smile in awe when your mom snaps on some green glittery wings. And, then when your mom ties your hair up in a big round bun on the top of your head just like Tinkerbelle, it makes you want to fly around the room and jump up and down on mom & dad's big bed. Avery made me smile.

Oh, to be 1 years old again and be thrown into a world of strangeness where everyone around you is dressed as something weird. When mom puts a full bodysuit on you and it has fake abs and forearm muscles to boot, you just poke each pillowy muscle one by one, and then look up and grin at everyone. You may even want to fly around the room like your big sister. She may have wings, but you have magical flying power. Christian made me smile. It was a great Halloween.

Click HERE for all of the pics. Password: Finch

9 lives.

My friend Heather has some fantastic Truths of Motherhood that I love.  They are much more meaningful than this. 

I may need 9 lives to get through my every day. For now, here are my 9 truths:

1) There is a pink Minnie Mouse tricycle in the bathroom. Actually- in the shower, in the bathroom. And, baby doll Rosie is sleeping in the sink, with the hand towel covering her up.

2) I drink out of sippy cups...on a normal basis. Granted it's because I am just looking for a quick sip of liquid to either swallow vitamins with, or because it's the only thing sitting on the end table right next to me in the living room, and I'm eating salty popcorn, and don't feel like getting up.

3) I have a professionally-perfected vault over 3-foot high gates, as to not touch it at all while clearing myself into the office and trapping little people behind.

4) The catch-all tray for keys and wallets is filled with broken crayons, glittery hair clips, pacifiers (even though Christian hasn't used one in over a year), and long lost legos.

5) A big fabric box filled with diapers and wipes and lotions is literally the centerpiece of our dining table.

6) At any one time, a person could scrounge up a hearty snack (maybe even enough for lunch) from the floor of our car.

7) I have to literally sneak out of the house if I want to avoid a full-blown melt-down of little creatures that "want to go toooooooooo".

8) Tragedy has struck the Finch house when there aren't any more apple squeezers in the fridge.

9) At 7:30pm, the clouds part, a rainbow is visible, and angels sing sweet music.

avery at three and a half.

I put Avery to bed an hour ago. She got out twice. She got spanked once. She went into Christian's room once (hense the spank). She went to the bathroom twice. I yelled at her. I sang songs to her. I asked her nicely to suck her thumb and snuggle her blankies and close her eyes. I tucked all of her damn stuffed animals into bed....and kissed them goodnight...and sang songs to them. I bribed her with a trip to get icecream tomorrow. And, I turned on her favorite night light.

--20 mins later (when I'm thinking she must be asleep by now)--

On the video monitor:

Avery: "Mom? Oh, mom? Are you there?"

Me: "WHAT!?"

Avery: "Knock, knock"

Oh, dear Lord!

the playroom

The kids playroom is so chalked-full of toys that it is a bit overwhelming, but it at least serves the most important purpose of any room in the whole entire house: keeping the kids occupied, and out of mom's hair!

For a room tour, visit the playroom on Project Nursery. 

avery's big girl room tour.

I may need to get a new hobby. Or, check myself into some sort of twelve step program for design-aholics.

When tested, I can most always put down the thing that poses most harm to me, but when it comes to spray painted animal lamps or color-on wallpaper, or personalized tableware, you've lost me. It's pretty much the reason I want more kids...ya know, to have to design a space for them.

Here is a glimpse into Avery's big-girl room. I had way too much fun collecting pieces over the years: great-grandma Ginny's vintage drummer girl print, a glitter number 1 canvas from her 1st birthday party, newborn hand & foot molds, flying fairies from grandma Mary (Avery has so fittingly named Flora, Fauna, and Maryweather), fabulous designer teacups she collects every year from Godparents Dana & Tom, vintage (yes, vintage) birth announcement of her dads' circa 1975, and a lot of favorite Etsy shop finds.

I only hope she loves living in the space as much as I loved putting it together.

For more pics and info on her room, visit the room tour on Project Junior.

christian timothy, one point five.

Little man is now 1-1/2 years old. Can't quite believe it!

Here are his stats of the 'now':

a) running after Avery
b) giving people 'bumps'
c) laughing at his own burps
d) telling us when he's "done!" eating up to his highchair
e) pointing out other people's bellies out in public
f) reprimanding neighborhood dogs for barking.
g) letting you know that every object, should he want it, is "MINE!"
h) pointing out every single ball he ever sees. anywhere. even if its just a circle.

Christian Timothy 16 month photoshoot

And, here is Christian's annual report poster- only 6 months late. Better late than never.

Poor second-child-syndrome. Can't be helped.

Even if I don't take as many pictures of him, or don't take extra extra time to teach him mundane tasks, there will always be a special place in my heart for my first son. Those dimples. That smirk. His pouty lips. Those mesmerizing big blue eyes.

I guess you could say he got to me.

buongiorno!

Italy was everything I could have ever imagined a fantasy whirlwind European trip with kids to be and much much more. I don't even know where to start! The music- soothing and romantic. The architecture- bold, historic, picturesque, reverend. And, the food (oh, the food!) can only be laced with sweet garlic loveliness!

Top (L-R): San Gimignano, Vernazza in Cinque Terre, Trevi Fountain in Rome
Bottom (L-R): Rome, Sienna, Pisa

Whenever I look back at our travels with kids, I'm always so grateful that they have been able to go and see and experience such spectacular things - near and far. Even though they may be too young to remember most of this trip, they will most definitely remember the sense of travel and adventure that their parents (hopefully) have instilled in them. I want them to always have a curiosity for learning, a need to explore, and a passion for finding out how the rest of the world lives. It's so very exciting for me. And, I hope they grow to love it too. 

Avery fell in love with gelato - that which we found on every other street corner. Italians definitely know how to live. She perfected her order: 1 scoop of super pink (could be strawberry or red velvet or cinnamon, but as you can guess- it's the PINK part that is most important here, people.) And, in a baby waffle cone please!

Christian was a trooper! Having been at the tail-end of the awkward 'I know how to walk but I still trip on everything that isn't completely flat' stage, the ancient cobblestone streets where a hurdle. Exhibit A below is sufficient enough evidence - Christian at the Vatican with a bruised forehead. And, as a side-note to this pic: what a fantastic shirt I picked out for him to wear the day we visited one of the Holiest places in the world. Yep.

Top (L-R): Christian @ The Vatican in Rome, Avery @ The Colloseum in Rome
Bottom (L-R): Jonathan & Christian in Cinque Terre's Vernazza, Hannah & Christian in Florence

I will say that had we not had GPS on our phones, our marriage may have been over. Windy roads tended to make me car sick and street signs weren't so clearly marked. Thankfully- if you followed the GPS (even though you thought it looked like it would take you the wrong way), it proved to be a lifesaver! Made our entire trip so much less stressful. The kids were young enough and little enough, that at any one time they could both fall asleep in the stroller and/or backpack, and we could keep on keepin' on our way as tourists. Cars and trains and buses and cabs and airplanes....I have to say that Avery and Christian are absolutely fantastic little travelers. We made some great memories and can't wait for our next trip abroad.

Oh- and speaking of driving, you know the universal "Ummm, hellloooooo?!" that drivers say to other drivers when they're coming into their lane, or cutting them off? While in Italy, we made a point to say, "Ummm, buongiornoooo?!?" Hee.

For waaaaay too many pics of the whole Italy trip, click HERE. Password: Finch.

avery taylor, almost 3.

"Please mama, can I please have some goal-fish in a cup...in a orange cup...with some am-mul cwackers on top please?"

"Avery, thank you so so much for being such a good girl and minding mama today. You make me so happy when you listen, and when you say please. Yes, you can have goldfish and animal crackers. Here. Don't you see, when you are a good girl and ask nicely, you get to have fun stuff!"

"Oh yea mama, I know! Like when I say pllllease can I ride the carousel today, you always smile and say oh yes you can!"

She's getting a little too smart for my own good.

That's my first born. Avery has grown up so much, so fast, and at an even quicker rate since Christian was born last January. While she definitely has her moments, (and she DOES have them) she had turned into one of the sweetest, smartest, imaginative, curious, and thoughtful little girls I've ever known.

The thing about being a parent to Avery that always makes me smile is how truly alike we are. Even in the smallest ways. I see myself in her almost every day. The way she fixes her hair...the way she organizes her toys, or puts her markers in a straight line...the way she sleeps...how she eats...and the list goes on and on.

On one hand I have no idea how my mom put up with raising me. On the other hand, I feel like our having similar personalities has helped me to know best how to motivate her. Traditional scare tactics never work. With her, I often find myself thinking ahead to what I would have liked to do or see or touch or investigate in any situation, and then try to provide opportunities for her to safely (and mess-free) be involved. It's no wonder to me that one of her all-time favorite cartoons is Curious George. I don't like the cartoon myself. George the monkey is always getting into trouble.

Well, cartoon or no cartoon, Avery finds her own trouble. But, she never leaves me empty handed when it comes to funny one-liners or surprising antics. She is a smarty pants. She is a daredevil. She is a fabulously loving big sister to Christian. She won't take no for an answer. She's learning how to share. And, she's my favorite little almost-3-year-old in the whole world.

Avery Taylor, you are indeed loved.

and then there were four.

He is here! And, has been for over 2 months now. Christian Timothy Finch is the newest love of our lives. A boy. An infant. A house of (now I can say it in the plural) kids! I've often thought of writing about him during his 3am feedings, and his 5am feedings, and his 6am feedings, but have yet to write down how much I love him.

I do. Very much. He's just so soft, and his face is such a perfect blend of Finch & McDiffett (with maybe a little more McDiffett) this time round. His big big big blue eyes match his sisters', and he has his dad's rounded (more normal-looking) ears. As of now, at our 9-week point, he has only 1 dimple on his right cheek. His thighs are chubbing out, and he's started to grow into his storing-up-for-the-winter squirrel cheeks. But, the best part...has got to be his smell. I could nuzzle my nose under a cheek, into that neck and stay there. All. Day. Long. Maybe chew on that said cheek while I'm at it.

Originally, Avery couldn't pronounce his middle name Timothy. She said Tumbally. That was it. He has been Tumbally and Tumbles and Rumblin Tumblin ever since.

Here is our little Monster, Inc. at 8 weeks...

a good landing spot

The Willy Wonka blueberry girl; Aunt Petunia that Harry Potter blows up into a helium balloon; a sumo wressler. Pick a card, any card - that's what I'm feeling like today. Large. I thought about designing an XXL clothing sticker and sticking it to my belly for these last three weeks...just to see if Jonathan notices. I'm sure Avery would love it- belly being right at her eye level and all, and with a new fanatic love of stickers.

Avery came with me to my 36-week doctors appointment this morning, and when they got out the "magic wand" to hear the baby's heartbeat she says, "Mama! Mama! I hear pony! Fast pony!"

I'm starting to think she's going to be extremely disappointed. Instead, she gets a crying baby that takes up more of my attention. I'm thinking that this baby could give her a stuffed pony as a gift when she comes to meet him at the hospital. Ya know, meet her half-way at least.

That stork that left the station many many months ago has got to be pretty exhausted by now. And, I'm keepin' a lookout for a good landing spot.

and I hope she never changes

Avery met Santa today, for the second time. Granted, she doesn't remember the first time, but something makes me think she'll remember this one. (The strange man with un-kept white fluffy hair grabbing at me with white gloves, asking me to sit on his lap?) Yeah- she wasn't having any of it. And, a parent can only really be proud of a child for not gravitating toward such strangers, right? We did get one shot of her sitting on my lap, while she was so very distracted with Santa's helper/camera dude shaking jingle bells above the lens. I cut myself out of course because I looked like what a mom looks like after waiting in line for 20 minutes while trying to keep a 2-year old entertained long enough without crying, pulling out her cute sparkly hair clips, or throwing her goldfish at other people.

I have to say, at this stage in my 36-week pregnancy number two, I am spent. Avery is far too heavy for me to hold. But, I just love to hold her. I keep thinking that once this new baby comes, she won't be my baby anymore. She's going to be my older girl. It's hard to let go of that; especially when she looks at me and says "Mama, hold you hold me." My heart melts. I'm just really hoping that she takes a lot of joy out of helping me care for this new little boy. She is definitely a care-taker at heart: strolling around her baby doll, wrapping up her animals in blankets to go nigh-night, changing her puppy dog's diaper, and patting my back when I'm hurt or crying. She's definitely going to grow up a little with such responsibilities of being a big sister, and of eventually paving the way for all of our future kids in the house. I can't wait to see the girl she becomes. She's so feisty, and creative, and independent. And, I hope she never changes.

happy ween!

Halloween was actually a lot of fun this year. I think Avery was old enough this time to actually participate in the slimy pumpkin dissecting, looked cute as can be in her baby strawberry get-up, and loved going up to peoples' houses to ring the doorbell. To her disappointment, she just didn't quite understand why she couldn't actually GO into everyones houses. I guess this makes much more sense when you really think about it. Walk up to every door, ring the door bell, get them to answer, and then....just walk away?

What they say about living childhood over again through your own kids it totally true. I have to admit that Halloween has never been one of my favorite holidays. Don't get me wrong- it's fun an all, but if I had to choose between all of the other holidays, it wouldn't make the top 3. This is probably due to growing up in Anchorage. By Halloween, we always had tons of snow already, and most of the time you had to plan your costume around wearing a big puffy snowsuit or coat. So, no cute skinny little snow whites or pincesses for us. It was either the obvious round pumpkin, or a fat witch. The latter of which is no good, in any situation. Having said that, Avery is making me like Halloween much more now.

This year, due to Halloween, Avery has learned the following words:

sly-mee
boo!
caaan-dee
choc-it
happy ween!
frick o freet
vitch
skair-ey

Dana also sent me the cutest black t-shirt to showcase little man in the belly. Can't quite believe we'll have 2 to dress up this time next year!

Click here for all Halloween pics. Password: Finch

my little pony

Ponies are the new thing. Of the year. For Avery, that is. She is obsessed! And, I'm actually loving her new-found obsessions with things. It reminds me of myself going through phases of tufted furniture or all things turquoise, or anything cupcakes

She is at such a fun age where Jonathan and I can tell her stories, and she actually remembers them later on. "Remember when you got to ride a pony at the zoo?" Her face lights up, and she immediately says, "Again! Again, dadda! Poe Ey! Again!"

That's why I know she'll be perfectly smitten with her new big girl bedding...

Here is our newest equestrian:

avery taylor's annual report

Just one year late, I have finally put together Avery's annual report poster that I have been thinking of doing for so long. For me, it acts as a much more functional baby book- visually reporting her milestones, special 'firsts', and specifics concerning her first year. I'm pretty excited to have the template done, and can't wait to have a wall for all of the framed posters once we have collected all of our children. Hee...collected.

I'm mostly certain that this is just a small bi-product of my "nesting" for baby bird #2. Hey- whatever gets things done these days is fine with me and my bigger-than-need-be-at-24weeks-belly!

the drive thru

Never have I ever truly appreciated the convenience of a drive thru until having a kid. There are so many more times than I would like to admit to where I am still in my pajamas, Avery is still in her pajamas, and we are out making a quick stop for coffee or food. You know mom needs her coffee in the morning when Avery knows the drill all too well:

Avery: "Mama...Coff...Hot!"
Me: "Yes my baby. Very hot. Can you say mmmmmm?"
Avery: (With a smile) "MMMmmmmm mama"
Me: "Now that mama got her coffee, how about we get my baby some pancakes and hashbrown?"
Avery: "MMmKay. Mamma! mamma!...I like cakes."
Me: "Mmmmmm. Me tooo. Yumm."
Avery: (With a giggle) "Yummm"

All are happy...having never left the car seat. Love!

the update

Time is a flyin'. Here's the update...

I'm 16 weeks along with baby bird number 2, we are renovating bathrooms, repairing the deck, re-constructing our entire backyard landscape, test-driving minivans, and traveling galore. Only a few things on the plate at a time. We are back into full-blown nesting mode, and I am loving all of the projects!

Avery is 18 months old, going on 10 years. She is now in the 99th percentile for height, and pediatrician says she is very advanced for her age. Ah, isn't that what all parents want to hear of their kids. I'm sure they believe it, even if it's not said. I'm attributing her said advanced self to her height and long hair.

Exhibit A: Height. I don't really notice how tall she is until she's around kids her own age, and is then a whole head above them. This allows her to climb on top of more stuff, and to grab more things she shouldn't be getting into. Thus, she probably explores more. She's already gone through the bumping her head on things and has learned the skill of "ducking" before all of the other kids have grown tall enough to hit their heads.

Exhibit B: Long Hair. She's always had crazy long hair. Since birth really. She's had over a dozen hair-cuts, and now requires either a braid or pony tail to keep the strands out of her face, and mouth. With the long hair, people have always thought she was older, and treated her such. I can recount plenty of times pre-8-months-old when people would come up to her stroller and ask her what her name was. She would just stare back as mom answers for her.

Armed with these valiant tools, she has certainly grown into a little person with definite opinions and attitudes, and for lack of a better words, knows exactly what and how she wants things. Her dad often tells me, "Hmmm, mom- wonder where she got that from?" I'm so proud.

This weekend also marks Jonathan and I's 3rd anniversary. 3 years, and 1.5 babies. Craziness to me.

I'm trying to figure out Avery's big-girl room decor & furniture, we will find out whether baby #2 is a boy or girl in a few weeks, and I'm trying to get Christmas shopping already under-way. Things are so busy, and I'm trying to remember to record all of the chaos along the way.

Amidst the contractors coming in and out of the house, Avery cranky and ready to go down for a nap, the phone ringing, and the power going out, Jonathan says, "Don't you think we should get a dog soon?" Sure. Why not?

products to live by/with: part 1.

My friend Heather inspired me with her latest post about some of her favorite products that have either made her life easier, and or better. It got me thinking...

I have to admit, I am an extremely loyal brand consumer. If I find a product or service I like, I tell everyone about it...to the point where I think that, in some cases, I should be receiving annual checks for promotional services rendered. I like to think of it as my own personal "Favorite Things" show. Here ya have it:

1. Dove body wash. I never used to like any body wash that had even a hint of oil in it- so I just stuck with things like Zest soap that left your skin so rubbery-clean. Now, I love pretty much anything Dove. Whenever I use it, Jonathan always asks, “What smells so fresh and clean?” Can't complain with that.

2. Waverly fabric drawer organizers. I usually find them at TJMaxx or Marshalls. They make alllllllll of my drawers in every bathroom, junk drawer in the kitchen, office desk drawers, and even car console look extra cute, and really help to keep clutter under control. They also have pretty fabric boxes w/ lids that I use for storage boxes in hallway closets (light bulbs) and kids closets (grown-out-of sizes).

3. Naked by Urban Decay eye shadow case. I didn't really ever even wear eye shadow all that much, but my sister bought it for me and in only a very short amount of time, I have come to love the everyday normal and nude colors, and the smooth smooth brush. It also comes in a pretty magnetic case that is easy to manage. No issues trying to get the brush out, or cracking shadow powders or cheap plastic cases to crack. Thanks, Dana!

4. Summer infant baby video monitor. This is by far my couldn't-live-without baby product. Peace of mind all the way. And, I'm excited to just buy another camera for when the new baby arrives. You can use the same monitor and simply flip from cam 1 to cam 2. I still have friends with the sound-only monitors and wonder how they do it. It almost feels like the difference between a VHS/cassette tape and a DVD/MP3 file to me now...if that makes any sense.

5. Pottery Barn king down pillows. I think I made the switch when we finally got a king bed, and I decided that I was going to splurge for extra-nice pillows, sheets, and a duvet. It's one of those one-time purchases that keeps on giving. I still love getting into bed and laying my head down on such a comfortable cloud. Every night.

6. MyPublisher.com. It's an online site for making gorgeous photo books. And, it couldn't be simpler! Just upload your pics, drag and drop where you want, and order a book. I can't think of how many people I have introduced to their site. I was sick of taking so many pictures and having them sit on the computer... a file that never gets seen. I have started to make a book per kid, per year of their life, and hope to eventually give each of them a custom box filled with 18 books when they graduate high school and are off on their own. I am also making a copy for me, to keep at home.

7. iMemories. While we are on the subject of websites, this one digitalized your old video tapes/reels/you-name-it, into an awesome DVD with easy-to-navigate chapters. I also love that the chapters viewable on the TV appear in small boxes that are individually moving. Reminds me of the moving pictures in a Harry Potter newspaper.

8. Retract-A-Gates. These are soft mesh gates that keep kids and pets in/out of where you want them to be. I grew up with the wooden, clunky child gates that took up space and made for somewhat of an eyesore. Retract-A-Gates only have a thin tube that is adhered to the wall and 2 clear hooks adhered to the opposite wall. Love!

More to come. Back to being mom.

round 2.

I think it's about as official as it's going to get: Nausea in the mornings, peeing all night long, wild and crazy dreams, beer-belly pooch, and annoyingly-constant hunger (hense the belly pooch). And, if you ask Jonathan, he would probably attest to the early arrival of mama Finch's new 'nesting' ideas.

That's right- baby chick #2 is on the way! The stork has most likely just left the station, and grumbling to himself what for 7 more long months of flying time.

This time around is actually (dear I say) a little more fun so far. It's all of the joy and anticipation and thoughts of boy or girl, and big sister Avery, and nursery re-arranging, and big-girl bed planning, and name selecting MINUS all of the necessary first-time large purchases, stresses, new-ness and unknowns. I'm also constantly thinking about how Avery's world is going to be changed, and less about my own. After all, every hard edge of a coffee table has been padded, cabinet doors locked, and breakables moved up to flood levels. Charlie-cat is well used to ear-grabbing, and tail-stepping, and being full body steam-rolled. Jonathan and I have (for the most part) gotten used to a the seldom sleep-ins, anytime-of-the-day meltdowns, and the planning-our-life-around naptimes.

Coming from a family of 10 kids, it's exciting to know that we are on our way to building our own little crazy bunch of love and chaos. That's why we are still thinking about getting a family puppy as well. Yep- with a new baby. Yep- at the same time. Why this is the shock of people is beyond me. Yea- it's going to be tough for a while. But come on-- you can do it! Think of all of the fights and long nights and potty training and Avery-dog food-eating there will be! Organized chaos. Gotta love it.

For now, we are just praying for a happy and healthy little baby. We are content is our small corner of the world, and can't wait to see what this next chapter has in store.

On that note, I'm off to clean up the entire bowl of cereal and milk that Avery has tipped onto the carpet.

a better day.

When the sun is shining, everyone has a better day. Avery can roam the neighborhood searching for sticks and flowers and puppies and water puddles, and bugs. And, I can walk closely behind to watch her experience life's fascinating things for the first time: A scrunched up forehead looking at a squirmy worm in a puddle, a giggle when the puppy down the street licks and tickles her hand, her eyes opening wide and starring at me as an airplane wooshes through the sky making a loud noise, or the attempt at a genuine "bauuk bauuk" sound when the chickens run over to her chubby bread-filled hands.

When the coffee pot is hot and full, everyone has a better day. Jonathan is awake enough to play with Avery while I check my email. The mornings are so so great with a hot mug against your hand. And, the brewing smell warms up the entire house.

When Avery takes good long naps, everyone has a better day. Baby is well rested and happy when awake. I have had an ample break from toys and bottles and "no's" and "don't do that!" and "get down from there," and "be nice to the kitty kitty," and pretend tea time, and diapers, and "where are your socks!?" and "go find your DAD!". Naptimes bring with them a magical piece of your old self, a time when you can make the lists, and organize said toys, and actually take a shower this week.

When you have a great husband, everyone has a better day. I love being a mom. I really do. But when you're at it 24-7, all you really need is a loving husband to give you a nice long kiss, tell you what an extraordinary mom and wife and best friend you are, and then go on and on about how good your cooked meal was. Then, it can't hurt to vacuum the living room without even asking him to. Jonathan has it down. He makes my every day better.

mother's day

Mother's Day was awesome this year. I have to say- the best out of...well...two years total. I was so surprised to come downstairs to a vase of gorgeous hot pink roses, glazed doughnuts, my favorite Starbucks blend, and a crayon-scribbled card informing me of a date night to the Broadway performance of Mary Poppins.

Exhibit A, The Loot:

Exhibit B, The Card:

Yea- I know!

Me: "Sweetie! How did you know all of those lines from Mary Poppins!?"
Jonathan: "I have to say, I looked them up."

Now, that's what ya call real love.

avery words

As of March 6, 2011, Avery words/sounds are as follows:

Mama
Dada
Boogs
Ball
Bite
Hot
Go Go Go! (cat & the hat song)
Rock-a-rock-a-rocka
No no no
Utt Ohhhhhh
Moooooo (cow)
Ruff Ruff (puppy)
Meow (kitty cat)
Baauuk baauuk baaauk (chicken)
ooh oohhhh ahhh ahhhh (monkey)

I'm not quite sure what we did for entertainment around here before Princess Popper of Finchland arrived.

high, lull

We just returned home from one of the best vacations we have ever been on, as a family. Roatan, Honduras was a laid-back, rustic, easy-access, no frills type of place that was just what two couples with one-year-old babies needed. The kids were thoroughly entertained by each other, the new beach house and its hundred new things to explore & get into, as well as seeing new animals, spending much of the day walking on/sitting on or throwing sand, and splashing in the salt water. Jonathan and I enjoyed day after day of absolutely no plans. Jonathan went scuba diving, came home and watched Avery while I walked down the dirt path for a massage, then it’s a little beach lounging, followed by the biggest decision of the day: where to go for dinner. I read the rest of my book, we played with some monkeys, explored the beach shops, ate some terrific seafood, went zip-lining, walked barefoot down the beach to dinner, put the babies to bed, and drank wine on the patio with friends. The sunsets were gorgeous. We swam with dolphins. And, I didn’t wear a watch or carry my cell phone anywhere.

Hense the lull. There’s always something great about coming home to the familiar--home to the routine, and the home-cooked meals, and the comfortable bed. But, you also come home to the small little problems and projects you left before vacation. The stack of mail to go through is only fun for the shopping catalogs that have piled up, and the house is usually only clean again for about 2.5 days. The post-vacation depression settles in for approximately 1 day for every 2 that you were gone. So, that puts my recovery time’s over-under at yesterday.

So, today is a new start. I re-painted our bedroom, finally broke down and ordered a new dishwasher, and have even started my own at-home-ab-workout-session. (Throat clearing)…the latter of which I’m predicting will last approximately 2 weeks, so don’t get too excited.

That being said, I’m also on the computer trying to figure out the next vacation destination. Jonathan has definitely given me the travel bug. He is pretty nuts about getting out of the country at least once a year, diving at least twice a year, and what he likes to call, “just making it happen.” This means strapping the kid to a backpack, and lugging the extra diapers/cherrios/pack’n play/favorite toy/blankey/bottles along with. Life with a baby is certainly harder that you think…and traveling with kids isn’t easy, but I do think that it’s all worth it. Nap schedules mess with touring during the day, finding warm milk for a bottle is always tricky when you’re not anywhere near a local Starbucks, and strolling around with a baby who only wants to walk themselves has presented an all-new-and-fun dilemma.

I’m happy to see Avery’s picture on a passport at 9 months old. I didn’t get one until I was 22 years old. So, I’m just going to concentrate on enjoying the lull while it lasts. Come to think of it, it’s kinda cozy in here.

Here are all of the pics. Password: Finch

my life, right now.

It’s not every day that I have a this-is-my-life kind of moment. But I thought I would catch up for a few of the very many missed opportunities I’ve had to write about how this life if going.

1. Going to the bathroom is a group activity now. Avery notices me walking toward that corner of the room, removing a piece of the barrier than encompasses her baby-friendly perimeter, and makes a b-line for the open bathroom door. She pops her happy head around the corner and smiles that amazingly famous I’m-so-happy-smile to be finding my way to follow mama. Yes- into the bathroom. A few dozen open and closings of the cabinet door follow 5 or 6 master crawls in and out of the stand-up shower- each of which require a certain skill for avoiding bruised little baby knees and pinched little baby fingers. She is a master. And just when I think I have amply enjoyed the entertainment, our kitty cat (aka The Boogs) panders on in as well. He finds a safe little 6-inch spot on the left side of the magazine rack to hover, just out of the way of cabinet doors flying open, and teeny fingers grabbing for kitty’s pretty necklace. As I flush the toilet, Avery and The Boogs stop what they are doing, look up at me and smile-- or err meow. It’s been yet another successful venture to the bathroom. Let’s go get everyone a treat.

2. I can’t really remember the last movie that I went to in a movie theatre. Jonathan and I used to attend the theatre at least once a week. Now, we are loyal Netflix card-carrying members with a somewhat-eclectic queue filled with anything from foreign film classics to cheesy romance flicks to national geographic studies to comedy club specials to newly nominated best pictures. It takes all kinds to broaden our horizon when we usually watch at least 5 movies a week. And, it has to be Pop Secret’s Homestyle popping corn to accompany. Really, nothing else will do. And, it has to be the blue pillow to stuff on my right side for Jonathan’s shoulder to lie on. And, it has to be the tan blanket (not the white one) to throw over the both of us. And, all of the lights need to be turned off except for the two dimly lit ones in the living room. And, Jonathan needs to make sure he shuts the kitchen cabinet doors before joining me on the couch. That way, all is perfect in the world.

3. The house is officially a home when:

a)The Boogs has sufficiently scratched up at least two corners of my favorite furniture pieces.

b)The lamp on the left side of the room has to been moved to higher ground every morning before Avery finds her way over to it, pulls on the light string, and it crashes to the floor- denting the shade just a little bit more.

c)I can heat up a bottle of milk in the middle of the night, and in the pitch dark, know exactly which numbers I’ve pushed on the microwave.

d)I know the species of animal The Boogs is looking at downstairs out the window from the type of chatter sounds I hear up in my bed.

e)When I find Cherrios in the cracks of my laptop, in the toe of my boot, and stuck to the side of the remote.

4. Only when I’m halfway done with grocery shopping do I realize what song I have been humming for 20 minutes now: the theme song to Avery’s Cat In The Hat morning cartoon. “Here we GO GO GO GO on an adventure, the thing-a-ma-jigger is up and away-ay-ay.” And, I don’t feel as silly when I return home to hear Jonathan humming the very same thing.

Life is really great. I'm just trying to take one day at a time, and remember all of the tiny pieces of goodness.