M & J Monday

I love you when you're happy

and grinning ear to ear.

I love you when you're sleepy

and want to snuggle near.

I love you when you're sad

and need a kiss and hug.

I love you when you're playful

and rolling on the rug.

I love you when you're angry

and cross your arms and pout.

I love you when you're wild

and yell and scream and shout.

I love you any way you feel,

no matter what you do.

I love you any way you are.

I love you because you're you!

Excerpts from I Love You Because You're You
by Liza Baker

Happy Monday!

The Big Bear Edition

This last weekend was one for the books. We packed up our family, plus dog (who is basically the size of a pony) and headed for the mountains. With all the hours Scott has been logging at work this past month we were all due for some serious quality time together. That's exactly what we got with our weekend adventure in Big Bear. It was everything I had hoped and dreamed, and coming back down the mountain on Sunday was no easy task. I didn't want to leave.
To the highlights!

Day One:

1. Snow Tubing!

We got into town, did all the necessary things (groceries, unpacking, yada yada yada), and then headed straight for a tubing hill. I'm not sure if Marcus loved the tubing or slipping and sliding on the wet, slushy snow more. Either way, he had himself a grand ole time. 

2. Alpine Sledding!

Excuse the terrible quality photo, but I couldn't resist snagging this from a quick video I took of the guys going down the Alpine Sled (:09 video below).

IMG_2292 from Desiree Macke on Vimeo.

The alpine sled was part of the tubing facility, and Marcus could have ridden this thing all. day. long.

Day One was good, but I had a feeling Day Two would take the cake.

Day Two:

3. SNOW BOARDING!

 When Marcus learned he was going to snowboard he was so excited. He couldn't wait to get his very own board and get going.

We opted to put Marcus in a private lesson so he could learn the correct and safe way (because let's be honest, Scott nor I has a clue when it comes to snowboarding).

Marcus had no problem heading out with his instructor, and it was clear the little man had the. best. time. ever. 

Though Marcus fell as often (probably more) than he successfully made runs down the hill, I was pleasantly surprised at how well he did, and how he didn't get frustrated whenever he took a spill. Might I also add that one hour of snowboarding provided a solid two hour nap. Amazing.

Almost a week later and we are still talking about snowboarding. I think we need another trip back up the mountain!

4. This little lady!

Julia traveled like a champ, hung out like a champ, slept in a foreign place in a foreign bed (the pack n play) pretty well, and didn't mind one bit that she was in the Solly for 85% of the weekend.

I have to say, I kind of loved having her all bundled up with me most of the time, too.

5. Our time together.

I couldn't say if our cabin had cable or not. When we weren't outside we were enjoying each other's company. We brought up a few games that traveled easily, and each night we played a few rounds to cap off our evenings. It was nice to semi-unplug and just hang out.

P.S. If you've never played Farkle I highly suggest it. It's super easy and pairs well with Pinot Noir.

I loved seeing Marcus enjoy himself so thoroughly, and I love that we were able to provide a weekend where it was so much about the little man. It's been a long time since we've been able to dedicate so much time to just Marcus. He needed that. I needed that for him. It really was the best weekend. 

Here's to this weekend! I hope it's fabulous! 

PPP {{3}} + $150 to Starbucks

Another month of The Picture Perfect Project is here! This month I wanted to focus a bit on my weekly Monday photo project.

If you've followed this little blog for any amount of time you've noticed Monday's are always dedicated to a few photos of my kiddos. What was once Marcus Monday has now evolved to M & J Monday. You've also probably noticed that these photos are not in the slightest bit candid. I do this intentionally. At the end of the year I have high hopes to line all the photos up and see how much my kids have grown and changed in 52 weeks.

More often than not our little photos sessions happen on Sunday morning after church. It's the one day of the week I thoughtfully plan Marcus and Julia's clothes to somewhat coordinate. After church also happens to be the time that Julia has woken from her morning nap and is generally in a good mood. Marcus has had his post-church donut (as have I). And, I've consumed no less than eight cups of coffee - necessary when knowing I have photos to take of both kids at the same time.

When my blog posts are published on Mondays the question I most often hear is, "How do you get both kids to smile/look/interact?"

The honest answer: I'm not really sure. Marcus has had a camera in his face since birth, so I'm figuring he's just kind of used to hearing me say, "Look at Mommy!" "Smile for me!" "Say 'cheese'!" "Don't 'cheese' too hard!" "Give me a soft, sweet smile!" He's pretty good about taking direction. He also knows the faster he follows my prompts the faster we're done. He's also caught on to the bribes I'm known to use. "We can have a Popsicle after lunch." "I think there are some M&Ms waiting for you." I'm not above using bribery to get a smile. No judging allowed.

Julia is obviously a different story right now. She's wiggly and rolls all over and has arms and legs flailing all over the place. My saving grace with her is Marcus. She absolutely adores him, and he can make her laugh and smile like no one else. When a photo is taken of the kids looking at each other, it's usually because that's just how they're interacting. I also make a million crazy sounds, dance around like a fool, and snap my fingers to get and keep attention.

That's not to say things aren't somewhat of a train wreck for the 15 minutes I'm snapping away.

Case in point, this is what generally comes off my memory card and on to the computer each week:

So many photos to sift through.

When there's one good one there's always one crazy one not too far ahead or behind.

Quite a bit of editing required.

 There are sometimes tears, and it takes A LOT to make those go away.

Sometimes there isn't that *one* shot, and even editing can't fix it all.

There's a lot of love, but sometimes that affection means licked cheeks and covered faces.
For every one photo I use there are at least two or three that I discard.

I've also quickly learned with two kids that when they're done with my photos, they're done. The white flag is flown and I work with what I've got on my memory card. Going one second passed the small window of opportunity just leads to tears from everyone.

So, when the question is asked, "How do you get them to do that?" I don't really know. I guess I'm just kind of lucky my kids don't hate the camera right now.

Besides being lucky I also generally have a bunch of caffeine pumping through me. It keeps me sane while I'm trying to get *the* shot.

A little luck and a lot of caffeine, it's what my Sundays are made of. And, I want to share some luck and a lot of that caffeine with one blog reader.

I've teamed up with some of the best bloggers around for a 

Luck of the 'Bucks Giveaway! 

There is a $150 gift Starbucks card up for grabs! 

Do you know how many Sundays and photos that could take care of? SO MANY! 

The giveaway runs today, March 10 through Thursday, March 17. Just in time for St. Patrick's Day! 

Entering is easy. Just follow the Rafflecopter prompts below.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Be sure to link up your Picture Perfect Project!

An InLinkz Link-up

Fix #4

 This fix came as a bit of a surprise. I knew I'd had one scheduled (which I scheduled over a month ago), but never checked to see just when my fix was to arrive. No email was ever sent stating that my shipment was on the way, so when that pretty box with the blue logo was on my door step I was more than pleasantly surprised.

This round I asked my stylist, Alex (hiiiii!!) - whom I love - for items that were more fitting for spring, as well as a new handbag/purse. I currently have a Timi and Leslie diaper bag that I LOVE, but when the rare occasion arises that I do something without my children, I'm left in the dust. I don't have any cute hand bags or purses.

So, let's see what this fix was all about.
Looks promising. Yes?

I am so impressed that Alex takes the time to read my blog posts and gives feedback on the SF pieces I wear.

I won't lie, I was more than disappointed to read that there were ZERO hand bags to include in my fix, but I've got my fingers crossed for something epic in the next fix.

Moving along to what was in this fix...

Wynne Maxi Dress

I love a good maxi, and this one fit well and felt great, and was perfect for nursing. But, I just wasn't feeling it. The print didn't do a whole lot for me. I honestly have so many maxis in my closet already, I was concerned this one would get lost in the mix.

Verdict || Returned 

Margerie Stripe & Open Dot Cardigan

My initial reaction to this was excitement. I really liked the idea of the pattern mixing, and the material wasn't super heavy, so it'd be perfect for cool, spring day. But, once on me I was underwhelmed. The front was longer than the back, which was ok, but the way top opened, and laid was a bit weird. I felt like I was constantly trying to adjust everything to keep it open the way I wanted. 

Verdict || Returned

Ivy Split Neck Print Blouse

When I first saw this top I was totally unsure what to think. I loved the color but couldn't decide if the print was cool, or matronly. But, the more I wore it the more I grew to like it. I really like the v-neck, I love the tab sleeves, it's light weight, I really liked the color on me, and overall a piece I feel I could, and will, wear often. 

Verdict || Kept

Rowson Colorblock Striped Sweater

This is what my mom-clothes dreams are made of, and I knew it immediately upon pulling this sweater out of the box. It's super lightweight, I LOVE the mint color, and the stripes have my heart forever. I couldn't resist throwing on my Sperry's and boyfriend jeans. I can wear this to preschool drop off, to the grocery store, or even out to a casual dinner with Scott. It's an easy look that still looks put together, and I'm swooning.

Verdict || Kept

Queensland Dolman Jersey Top

In four fixes this is the FRIST Dolman to ever come my way! I don't even know how that's possible, and I was wondering if the infamous Dolman would ever reach me. But, alas, here it is. I thought I wouldn't like it. But I thought wrong. It fits like a glove, covers all the fluff, the stretchy jersey knit is fabulous (which will make nursing a breeze), and the color is easily one of my favorites. 

Verdict || Kept

How did I do? Did I keep the keepers and ditch the rest? What do you think?

If you have yet to sign up for Stitch Fix head here to give it a shot! Signing up is FREE and you aren't charged the styling fee until you receive your fix. Don't forget, that styling fee goes toward your purchase. Look at it this way, a $20 styling fee is easily the Starbucks and gas getting to and from the mall. Give Stitch Fix a try!

Julia || 7 Months

Sweet Little Lady,
Here we are. Another month in the books.
Month seven was a challenging one thanks to colds and trying to get back into good sleep habits. Sleep training is not for the faint of heart.

This month you discovered the freedom of army crawling, and nothing is safe. Once you have your mind set on reaching an object (usually the cat or dog) you lock in on said object and are on the move. You move quickly across the floor. Long gone are the days where we can simply lie you on your play mat.

You continue to adore your big brother, and no one can get you to laugh or smile like he can. In fact, I had Marcus on my back -piggy-backed- looking over my shoulder at you, while taking these photos. He would make funny faces and silly sounds, all in the name of getting a smile from you.

Sleep is an ever evolving process. You typically go to bed with relative ease, but lately you've been waking between 11PM and 12PM thanks to the solid foods you've been consuming. You'll nurse around 4:00AM or 5:00AM, and are typically up for the day by 6:30AM.  You nap two to three times a day. It all depends on what we have scheduled. You're pretty good about napping in the car, and some days those are the only naps you get.

You still love to nurse. It's easily your favorite thing, and most certainly the one thing that can calm and soothe you. We're still plugging away at pureed foods. You're a big fan of most fruits, will eat sweet potatoes no problem, and will tolerate butternut squash and peas.

The latest discovery is your tongue. It's hilarious, and I love watching you try to mimic when others stick their tongue out at you.

You're really flexing your vocal cords, and playing around with the "ba- ba- ba-" and "da- da- da-" sounds. Your dad and I are at odds with whether or not we think you're actually saying, "Dada." I say no. You father disagrees. :) You also love to screech, scream, and holler. Your flair for the dramatic hasn't lessened. And, anytime something happens that you don't particularly care for you put on quite the performance, complete with fat lip, crocodile tears, and the most pitiful wailing.

When something really tickles you, you crinkle your nose. And I love it. I hope you never lose that adorable little crinkle.

You love to bed held, but don't particularly care to snuggle. You love Sophie the Giraffe, but aren't all that interested in those Taggie toys. You don't mind sitting in your high chair, but don't have much patience for the Bumbo. You love to see the world around you, but don't seem all the interested in sitting upright on your own. You gnaw and chew on everything, but those two bottom teeth just refuse to come through.

Peanut, you are such a joy. Your smile lights up our lives, and you light up our world. It's only been seven months, but it seems as if you've been apart of our lives, our family, forever.

Here's to month seven. I can't wait to see what month eight has in store for us.

Love you to the moon and back. Twice.
~Mommy

Stats
Height :: 26.25 inches (40th percentile - *according to at home measurements)
Weight :: 15 pounds (not quite 20th percentile - *according to at home measurements)
Clothes :: 6-9 month
Diapers :: Pampers size 2
Teeth :: None

M & J Monday

Live in the sunshine.

Swim in the sea.

Drink the wild air.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Happy Monday!

The Work Out Edition

This week has been kind of crazy, and the weekend has never looked more beautiful. We have a pretty great weekend lined up, and I'm ready to spend some quality time with my little family.

That said, the crazy has lately been my excuse to skip workouts and runs. I have no races lined up, and I can't find the drive to run more than two to three miles at a time. I NEED a finish line to motivate me to really get out there. I also NEED to stop making excuses and get off my butt. So, today's highlights are workout inspired. I'm also hoping this post will help keep me more accountable to get out and get moving.

1. SWORKIT!

Scott introduced this app to me some time ago, but this week was the first time I really used it. And, I absolutely love it. Bonus for it being FREE.

The structure of SWORKIT workouts are reminiscent of Insanity workouts, but I can select the workouts I want to do, as well as how long I want the workout to last. 

It's also so convenient to be able to just pull out my phone and pull up a workout quick. If you're in the market for an app that makes you sweat this one is totally it. Did I mention it was free?

*This isn't an ad or sponsorship, I just love the app and wanted to share it!

2. NEW SHOES!
Is there anything more satisfying than getting a new pair of running shoes? I seriously think not.

 They also help want to get out and add some miles to my day. I strayed away from my beloved Saucony Guides for a while, but I'm back in them, and I'm pretty sure they're here to stay.

3. RACES!

So, 13.1 miles PLUS beer? Yes.

And isn't that Craft Classic finisher's medal (the beer glass on the left side of the graphic) just the sweetest medal you ever did see? That's about enough to push me to hit the "Register now" button right this very minute.

I've been begging Scott for years to run a half with me. He's agreed to run with me IF I do a triathlon with him.

I'd love give the Spring Sprint Tri a shot... If I didn't have to bike. So, there's that.

4. THE KELTY!

Julia is finally big enough to fit in the Kelty! I foresee some family hikes in the near future.

5. THAT'S A WRAP!

Have a fabulous weekend!

St. Patty's Day Sugar Bites

Way back when (we didn't have kids) it wasn't unheard of to find Scott and me at our favorite establishments partaking in green beer goodness on St. Patrick's Day. These days, however, our celebrations have changed slightly (and we no longer nurse a two-day hangover). This year, instead of throwing back our favorite brews we're inhaling these little morsels of delight, because, kid friendly.

These cookie bites are a cinch to whip up, fun to have kiddos help bake and decorate, and taste mighty delicious. They're the perfect combo of almond and chocolate and sugar cookie all rolled into one.

print recipe

St. Patty's Day Sugar Bites

by Desiree Macke March-3-2016

Mini sugar cookies topped with a delicious butter cream frosting and festive St. Patty's Day candies.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup, softened Butter
• 1 cup Sugar
• 2 Eggs
• 1/2 tsp Almond Extract
• 1 tsp Vanilla
• 2 1/2 cups Flour
• 1 tsp Baking Powder
• 1 tsp Salt
• FROSTING
• 1/3 cup Butter
• 2 cups Powdered Sugar
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla
• 1/2 tsp Almond Extract
• Dash Salt
• 2 Tbsp 1/2 and 1/2
• DECORATIVE TOPPING
• 3 per cookie Green M&Ms (I used the minis)
• Small green candies, or green pull and peel licorice

Instructions

Cookies: Preheat oven to 375°. In a stand mixer, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat well. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt. Roll into balls and place in well greased mini muffing pans. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges just begin to turn golden brown. Allow to cool a bit in pan before removing. Transfer to cooling racks and allow to completely cool before frosting.FROSTING: Beat butter, powdered sugar, almond extract, vanilla, and 1/2 and 1/2 until smooth. Add more 1/2 and 1/2 as needed to create a spreadable consistency. Top with candies to create shamrocks.

Details

Prep time: 20 mins Cook time: 10 mins Total time: 1 hour Yield: Approx 3-4 dozen

But, don't think for one second we won't pop open a beer (or two) once the kiddos are snuggled in bed. I might even get ambitious and add a few drops of green food coloring for good St. Patty's Day measure.

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