OC Family New Mom

And the votes have been tallied

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 09:38:00 GMT

This is a short and sweet posting. Flew back from the city by the bay yesterday with Savannah. The two of us went back to my old stomping grounds (good ol’ slowvato…Novato in Marin County) to visit Lita and Bobpa and celebrate my 23rd birthday. Okay, I may have turned 23 for like the X time (I am not giving it away), but age is only a number and I feel super young (I attribute this to the combo of consistent exercise and good wine)!

So, this post is really to announce my new title. What was really cool is that 116 people voted!!! Thank you!!! Drum roll please… The winner with 46 votes is Savvy Mom. Followed by Marathon Mom with 41 votes and Fine Wine Mom with 29.

I LOVE my new title and think Savannah will be fond of it as well.

Take a look at my little Miss Savvy flaunting the latest in fashion accessories and posing for the camera. She’s so stinkin’ cute.

Searching for a new title

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:00:00 GMT

So, Savannah is 20 months now. She will be two in May. And as much I still consider myself a “new mom” since Savannah is my first child and I learn something new as a parent each and every day, I have begun to question my current title and think it may be time for a change. I guess I am asking for a promotion. I am ready to pass on the rank of “new mom” and take on a more distinguished and qualified title (knowing good and well that the responsibilities will become greater and the challenges more daunting but the rewards make it all worth while).

So, with a little help from my fellow mom-bloggers and friends, I have come up with a few of my own ideas for titles. The proposed titles are up for vote and if you have a suggestion you think would fit me better, please share. If I choose a title you suggest, you will be overly praised and rightly accredited when I announce my new title. So, here are my suggestions…

Marathon Mom
This one has a little to do with my resolution to run a 1/2 marathon this year, but more to do with how I feel just about each and every day. My husband opened his own State Farm office just last month and so the "course" has become even a little more challenging. With Tim out the door fairly early each day, I juggle getting Savannah and myself ready in the morning before I head to work. If I can get out of the house 10 minutes late not forgetting Savannah's lunch or bottle, it is a good start to the day. After work I have to get home, bundle up Savannah and get out to walk the dog before making dinner, bath time and then after a few books, bedtime…and that goes for both of us. The juggling is exhausting and just like when I go out for a run, my goal each day is to cross the finish line. But also like my runs, I can’t wait to do it again.

Fine Wine Mom
Sometimes I wonder why I made one of my new year's resolutions to give up wine during the week. What was I thinking? There are huge benefits to drinking wine including:

Wine takes the edge off and calms the nerves
Wine thins the blood and lowers cholesterol
Wine lowers the risk of heart disease
Wine prevents molecules known as "free radicals" from causing cellular damage in the body

Plus, wine tastes really, really good. And this is where my problem lied. It tastes so good that I could easily drink a glass or two or three every night and that is no bueno on the pocketbook or the waistline. But, I know a lot about good wine and would love to share some of my favorites with you in future blogs because many moms can agree; nothing beats a nice glass of wine at the end of the day.

Savvy Mom
Okay, this title combines my love for my little Savvy (Savannah's nick-name) and love for fashion. While I am not always sporting the latest designer jeans or handbag (childcare is expensive people), I try to keep up with the trends and I do the same with Savvy. You should see her closet. That girl is so fashion-forward (special thanks to Berlyn, Teri and Diana for the designer duds).

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Savannah's first tornado

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:30:00 GMT

As I write this, I am in bed listening to the torrential downpour outside my window. My 100-pound mastiff-lab, Buddy, is curled up next to the bed (he normally sleeps on his own bed in the living room, but when it comes to extreme weather and loud noises, he is a total baby). For as long as I have lived in Orange County, I can’t remember such rains and intense winds. I mean, the National Weather Service has issued tornado warnings. Tornadoes! The advisory states that the safest place to be during a tornado is in a basement. Not too many homes in O.C. with basements, but those residents who do have them may be able to make a pretty dime in the next few days (I am going to start searching Craigslist for local basement-sharing opportunities).

Southern California in general is just not prepared for weather like this. Rain in itself is such a rarity that otherwise experienced drivers revert to 15-year-olds who just got their permits and are brake-happy. Gutters that probably have a capacity to hold a good 2 inches of rain become blocked and whole neighborhoods flood. I see people running frantically into their local Starbucks wearing flip-flops (wait, that was me). My family in Minnesota and brother in New Jersey are probably rolling with laughter – I'm sure our three days of rain are nothing compared to their months of heavy snow and blizzards.

Don’t get me wrong, I like a little rain every once in a while, but really, I live in Orange County for the 362 days of sunshine per year (give or take). I love to be outdoors, so this type of weather puts a little damper on my mood, and I think Savannah senses this and also gets a little case of condo fever. (I would call it cabin fever, but we live in a condo, and I would rather be in a cabin watching the snow dump and being first on the mountain.)

With that, do any of you have any suggestions for some rainy-day activities? Any ideas for fun games or crafty projects when you can’t go outside? Please share and stay safe: It is forecasted to get worse over the next couple days.

CBS2 Tornado documentation
Weather forecast

Have you kept to your New Year’s resolution?

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:05:00 GMT

So, I have been pretty darn diligent when it comes to my New Year’s resolutions. This year I really put some thought into my goals and also took some sound advice – think small change, not huge, global change. It is much easier to take baby steps and complete the climb than commit to running full-steam to the top. So, here were my small baby steps (resolutions) for 2010:

Give up wine during the week (my weekend officially starts on Thursday night)
Train consistently and run my first half marathon in 2010
Accept the things I cannot change or control (more of a personal conflict I need to work on)

Anyway, here is my progress report:

I have been very good about giving up my one, major vice during the week – wine. It has been hard, but I have filled the void with straight, hard moonshine. Kidding. This resolution is not only good on the liver, but also helps save some money. Plus, I really enjoy the bottles, I mean glasses, I consume on the weekend. It is only the second week of January, so we’ll see how long I last.
I am really enjoying my runs. I have never been a big fan of running, but lately I look forward to hitting the pavement for a good workout. I think it may have something to do with just being by myself, just me and my tunes (or bad music my husband calls it), leaving all other cares in the dust. I have gotten up to close to 10 miles now and just the other day sent in my registration for the O.C. Half Marathon in May.
OK, this is the hardest one. I really need to work on accepting the things I cannot change or control. I have a lot on my plate in the coming months, especially with my husband opening his own business last month. This year may be a challenge, but I need to go into it with a positive attitude and accept what comes at me. Challenge makes us stronger and learning to just go with the flow will help me maintain sanity.

So, where are you at with your New Year’s resolutions? And, as parents, do any of you ask your kids to make resolutions? Savannah is a bit too young to understand giving something up just yet. I am working with her on giving up eating crayons. But, for those of you with older children, can you share some of their past resolutions or maybe just ask them this: If they had to give something up in 2010, what would it be? I bet you will get some funny answers.

Good luck to all of you who are trying to stick to your resolutions. Some are harder than others. Just keep telling yourself,
“I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, people like me."

Stockings are hung and this mom is done

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:27:00 GMT

Christmas is just two days away, and I am feeling good. I am done. No more last-minute shopping trips, parking-lot battles and long lines. Just thinking of hitting up Target makes me feel anxious and a little sick to my stomach (the sick to my stomach thing could also be attributed to the cookies I had for breakfast this morning. The kitchen at work is a death trap, I tell you). I am really excited for Christmas this year. At 19 months, Savannah is in awe of the lights, the tree, the presents: She truly is as excited as a kid at Christmas. Just seeing the joy she has makes me all giddy inside too. We visited Santa the other day, and while she was a little curious as to why she got thrown into a stranger’s lap, she was accepting of the whole thing. I got some great photos (her niece on the other hand was a little more apprehensive). Her favorite three words now are “Ho, ho, ho.”

I also have to applaud myself for not going overboard. Savannah has one present to open on Christmas Eve – the classic novel, "The Night Before Christmas" – and a couple small gifts from Santa (even Santa and the elves have felt the strain of this turbulent economy). Seeing how much she loves empty boxes and ribbon, I really could have done less and she would be just as happy!

So now, I get to sit back and relax. I get some time off from work to just BE. I get to play with Savannah and enjoy good times with family and friends. From my family to yours, wishing you all a most happy and safe holiday.

Music Playlist at MixPod.com

Hurts my heart

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 10:55:00 GMT

This morning at the gym (so proud of myself for actually getting out of a warm, cozy bed to visit my old friend the gym at 5:30 a.m.) I opened the paper (yes, the paper) to read of the tragic case of the two young girls whose lives were taken way too early. This was a local San Clemente family. Before I read this, I was planning to blog about something more humorous, but I couldn’t shake the hurt and confusion about how anyone could do something like this. These two little girls were so beautiful, innocent and loving…just at the beginning of their lives.

They were like the daughters or sons we all have. The youngest was just months older than my Savannah. I really just needed to get the feelings of disgust, anger, disappointment and sadness off my chest. Children are not meant to experience harm. As parents we should do all we can to keep them safe and show them love. Please share how you feel.

Full story: ocregister.com/news/-224561--.html?

To conclude, I want to apologize to my little Savannah who had to face a little pain this morning. We both got our H1N1 shots today. She was not entirely happy about it, but the cheese crackers seemed to make her smile. I love you Savannah Layne.

Below, Savannah with her bestest friend, Buddy.

I follow the simplicity parenting model

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 14:25:00 GMT

A recent TIME magazine cover story focused on the case against over-parenting and how “helicopter” parents came to be.

Helicopter parents: moms and dads who hover over their children. These are the parents so obsessed with their children’s safety and success that parenting has morphed into a form of product development.

I decided to reflect on how I felt about the whole over-parenting thing by highlighting a few areas of the article and adding my two cents.

To protect our kids and keep them at bay, the Kinderkord was invented. These are the leashes that allow “three full feet of freedom for both you and your child.” It’s the “three full feet of freedom” that makes me laugh! I’ve already had the fearful experience of thinking Savannah was lost, so I understand where the idea came from. But I just for some reason can’t imagine walking my daughter the same way I do my dog.

“Less is more; hovering is dangerous; failure is fruitful. If you want your children to succeed, learn to leave them alone. When you lighten up, they fly higher.” I personally think this is my exact motto on parenting. I know my parents did the best they could. They had me in sports, extracurricular activities, etc. They also knew how to guide me without over-cramping. Yes, I have experienced failure and know there were times when I wished I had made a different choice, but all of that made me who I am, and I turned out okay. Thanks, Mom and Dad.

"Kids need free time. They need space to not be entertained or distracted. Boredom takes away the noise and leaves them with time to think, invent their own games and be creative.” So, the next time your kids tell you that they are bored, tell them it is good for them; it develops character.

“People feel there’s somehow a secret formula for parenting and if we read enough books, spend enough money and drive ourselves hard enough, we’ll find it and all will be O.K.” We are all different. Kids are all different. There is no one-size-fits-all to parenting. Sometimes I truly wish there was. I take some strategies from my family, get suggestions from friends, but ultimately, Tim and I are learning a little more every day about who Savannah is and who we are as parents.

Read the story and let me know what kind of parent you are.

Black Friday madness

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:13:00 GMT

So, who is crazy enough to battle the crowds on Black Friday? I have never done it myself and this morning I got a text from a neighbor… "going to Toys R Us at midnight on Thursday, want to come?" At midnight? Seriously? It used to be 8 a.m., then 6 a.m. and now many stores open at 4 a.m. But midnight? This drive for consumption is crazy and at the same time I am a little compelled. Here are some of the deals I have heard of…?

Carters is offering 60% off all items in the store. I think they open at midnight. Their ads read something like, “You shop while the pops watch (them sleep)”.
www.carters.com

Toys R Us opens at midnight and if you want to stock up on holiday gifts while saving some cash, this would be the opportunity. www.toysrus.com

Best Buy is always supposed to have some huge deals. Tim really wants a HDTV (yes, we don’t have one yet) and we may have to check out the offers at Best Buy.
www.bestbuy.com

Target opens at 5 a.m. and has great deals across the board…who doesn’t love Target? www.target.com

Walmart also opens at 5 a.m. with some serious deals on electronics. www.walmart.com

I’ve also heard about Fry’s Electronics, KOHLS, Macy’s. Make sure you know the hours at your local malls if you plan on braving the crowds.

Please share the deals you’ve found and if you plan on camping out this year, what advise do you have for the first-timers? Have a great Thanksgiving and celebrate all that you are thankful for. See below for what I am thankful for...

Sweet treat for little feet (and mommy too)

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:35:00 GMT

So yesterday I spent a portion of the day away from the office and took Miss Savannah to a special event for mommies hosted by etnies, the skate company headquartered in Lake Forest. The team at etnies was fabulous, professional and fun, and the firm thought of everything to make this event enjoyable for both parent and child. On-site child care was provided, and Savannah had no problem saying “later” to mom when she saw her new-found friends partaking in all the fun activities offered. And lunch was amazing, complete with chicken fingers and mac & cheese for the little ones (Savvy’s favorites).

Before today, I had no idea that so much study and technology went into making a pair of skate shoes. These guys really do some serious footwork (no pun intended) when it comes to putting out a quality product that meets the needs of skaters. I am no skater, and for some reason don’t see myself getting crazy with a skateboard at my old age, but I respect the sport and now have an even-greater appreciation for the culture. I do however snowboard and love my ThirtyTwo boots. I even plan on getting a new pair this season (hint to my husband who better read this).

But, the draw today was etnies’ new Grow with Me shoes for toddlers. These are so cool. The shoes are not only designed to give your little tricycle motors that extra stability they need when first getting their feet under them, but they have an insert that can be removed to extend the life of the shoe and reduce the impact on mommy’s pocketbook. Seriously, Savannah is only 1 and one-half, and she has gone through way too many shoes. I picked up two pair today, and I hope they last Miss Savvy at least a few months.

So, I would like to once again thank the team at etnies. You rock. And, just in time for the holidays, etnies has passed on a couple cool deals for my readers. Pick up some stuff for your kids (that includes hubbies and significant others) today.

Get $10 off for every $40 spent at etnies.com and get FREE shipping. Use promo code: ETNIES FAMILY. Promo runs from Nov. 17 to Dec. 4.

Also, the retailers below will be giving an etnies tote with purchase of etnies shoes:

Newport Shoe Bootery (Shoe Box) in Fashion Island
Urban Feet in Los Angeles
Powder & Sun in the Inland Empire

Visit etnies.com for information on Grow with Me and more.

Do you send a holiday brag letter?

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 07:57:00 GMT

You know what I am talking about: the lengthy two-plus pages, single-spaced 10-point-font novels that explore every detail of your family’s life? Some of these can be hilarious. You know, the one about little Johnnie who got let go from his job at the local paper and is now on-track for a management position at Hot Dog on a Stick. OK, it may not be exactly that situation, but you get my drift. Then there are the picture-perfect family letters that boast about who is excelling in their careers, who has the cutest children and where future travels are planned. Some of these letters make me laugh a little bit and make me just a little sick – not sure if it is jealousy, envy or the occasional bad writing. But, there are also the cards and letters that brag with tact and provide me with the 4-1-1 on relatives and friends who I rarely hear from. With all the letters I have received in the past, I should compile a guide (using examples) on “How to Write the Acceptable Holiday Family Brag Letter.”

I always think of these creative ideas of what I want to do for a holiday card, and then I overload myself with projects. So this year I went the easy route: the family picture holiday card. I so wanted to turn the Bushes into a Wii family, just didn’t happen (still may attempt). The family picture proved to be much easier, and I love the way it turned out. I hired Shoots & Giggles photography to take the photos. The company specializes in children and family photography and truly capture the most amazing moments. When it comes to taking family photos, it can be fun and easy or extremely painful. These girls make it fun and easy for all involved, and the photos are super. I talked with one of the girls, and for readers of this blog they are offering $50 off holiday sessions, 15 percent off custom holiday cards and 20 percent off canvas orders.

I am sharing some of the photos from a recent session with my little Savannah who turns 18 months on Saturday, the 14th. Time seriously does fly by ... even more reason to take lots and lots of pictures.

My little monster

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:17:00 GMT

I can’t believe that Halloween is around the corner. You know what that means: The holiday madness will begin shortly after. Literally, the day after Halloween the spooky décor and candy corn are cleared out (best time to stock up on treats) to make way for stockings and candy canes. In between we can’t forget the cornucopias and pilgrims. But right now, all I can think about is one holiday at a time – and that holiday is Halloween.

Halloween and all the festivities that go along with it have definitely changed since Miss Savannah came along. Costume parties have taken on a more family-friendly approach and the sexy witch and naughty nurse have been traded out for more conservative or creative costume ideas. Not so much drinking and more trick-or-treating.

Last year my little Savannah was a mouse for Halloween. I worked with Savannah’s Ama to handmake her adorable costume, which she wore for a total of one hour.

Recently, Berlyn disguised her as a skunk, which was adorable, but who loves a skunk? This year, I am making her costume again (I have no idea where I find the time for these things!).

Savannah’s favorite TV show (and one of mine too) is "Yo Gabba Gabba." She loves the crazy characters, the music, and when it’s time to dance, she and I both get down with the Gabba gang. So, this year Savannah is so excited to be DJ Lance Rock for Halloween (see adorable photo of another little DJ Lance). We’ll see how the costume turns out – wish me luck.

I also wanted to share some fun, safe and inexpensive (some are free) festivities around Orange County for families to take part in. Please share others you know of.

Pancakes and Pumpkins at South Coast Plaza: Oct. 25, 8-11 a.m.
The Friends of CASA present a Halloween Extravaganza that includes a scrumptious pancake breakfast, trick or treating, arts & crafts, animal shows, opportunity prizes and more. Children come in costume. The event benefits abused and neglected children who are served by CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) programs of Orange County. Near Crate & Barrel.

Tanaka Farms in Irvine: (Yes, a farm in Irvine! Tell the kids – Irvine used to be all farm at one time.) So fun! Went a couple weekends ago. Take a look at all the cute stuff for kids: tanakafarms.com.

Find out what’s going on in your city by clicking here.
Click here to see OC Family's event listing.

Read for the Record

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 08:13:00 GMT

Today, October 8th, is Read for the Record. Read for the Record is an international event put on by Jumpstart and the Pearson Foundation that aims to get children and families to read the same book, on the same day in communities across the globe. The book chosen this year to be read around the world is Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This truly is a classic. Even if you don’t have kids, you are probably somewhat familiar with this fuzzy creature that could care less about sugar intake or overdosing on carbs. If you have never heard the story, take a minute to sit back and enjoy a reading of The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

There are many events going on around Orange County today celebrating Read for the Record and many ways you can get involved. Take a look…

How can one participate in Read for the Record?

Be counted: Read The Very Hungry Caterpillar to any little ones you know. To make sure you are counted, pledge to read today at www.readfortherecord.org
Buy your book: Visit a bookstore near you or go to www.readfortherecord.org to buy a limited edition of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Print coupons for Barnes & Noble stores at www.earlyliteracyprogramoc.org to get special discounts and support ELP.
Sponsor a book: Help jumpstart a child’s library. Visit www.readfortherecord.org for more details.
Come out to local events in the OC
Westfield Main Place Mall from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Barnes and Noble, Metro Point – 901 South Coast Drive Costa Mesa from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pretend City Children’s Museum – 29 Hubble Irvine
Readings take place today at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. with fun book-themed activities, prizes and more. Bring a new or used book to help build another child’s library and be entered to win a $100 Pretend City store gift certificate.

Learn more by visiting:
www.earlyliteracyprogramoc.org
www.ocfamily.com/t-WHAT_TO_DO.aspx

Growing older but not up

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 11:07:00 GMT

So, this morning my hubby (the one featured in this month’s cover story for OC Family) asked me if he was old. Just like that, no beating around the bush, just “am I old?” He is so not the type to care, but I think both of us are noticing age creeping up on us at an all-too-fast pace. Time is seriously flying by. Savannah is approaching 17 months and is no longer a baby, but a very opinionated toddler. I am running at full steam at work, and Tim is opening his own business in exactly 60 days (he has a running countdown on his Facebook profile). Needless to say, we have a lot going on and stress plays a big part in how you take care of yourself – your whole self – body, mind and soul. And yes, we are getting older, and yes, I do see the lines, but these are memory lines, and I am taking them with dignity. But, I too read about the latest in skin care, have wondered about Botox and would not say no to someone offering me the secret anti-aging potion we are all on the quest for.

That being said, the other day I went to get a demo of the Nu Skin Galvanic Spa System. Tim got to be pampered first (yes, the male of the house), and he raved about it and referred me to Karen. Who could say no to a free facial? Plus, this meant I got to get out of the house and have some free time for myself. So, I went into the demo graciously and with an open mind.

I love getting facials, but they seriously add up. At about $100 a pop, I only really get maybe a couple a year, if that. But I love the way my skin feels after I leave. So, the system Karen used is like having your own personal facial service at home. You massage gels into your skin using the Galvanic device, which sends negative and positive currents to tighten the skin and remove impurities. Okay, I am no esthetician, so to get all the answers, visit stay-youthful.spabeautyathome.com.

Karen did the treatment on one side of my face to show the difference, and it was AMAZING. The one side of my face felt so smooth and the skin was firmer. The area around my eyes was where I saw the greatest difference. This system is sweet, and it is very relaxing, and you only need to perform the treatments twice a week for just 10 minutes (I could do an hour personally). So, while sitting watching "The Office," give yourself a facial (maybe not "The Office" – Michael’s antics may not make for the most soothing environment).

Take a look at the video and then go see Karen for a demo: You WILL feel the same way and will probably want to bring the whole kit and caboodle home with you.

And Tim, you are looking just as handsome as the first day I met you, and like Buffett says, “You may be growing older, but not up.” You are my smokin’ hot “distinguished” lifeguard husband and soon-to-be business owner. I love you and sure, you can use the spa treatment, too.

Karen has offered a special to readers of this blog: The Galvanic Spa System retails for $388. It includes the Galvanic Spa with four different conductors (facial, body, hair and spot corrector), one tube of body shaping gel, two boxes of ageLOC gel and four pairs of pretreatment and treatment vials in one box. OC Family blog readers get the whole package at wholesale, which is $285 (plus tax & shipping). Call Karen at 714.488.4388 or visit stay-youthful.spabeautyathome.com.

One busy mommy

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:50:00 GMT

Does it seem like days go by way too fast to anyone else? I feel like I can’t keep up. I will apologize upfront for not keeping current on my blogs about Savannah. Work has been very demanding, and Savannah seems even busier these days than ever. She is exploring everything, everywhere, and nothing can hold her back. My mom is in town this week helping to watch Miss Savannah while Tim’s parents are traveling the world, and when I got home yesterday after work she admitted to being exhausted. Savannah is like the energizer bunny: She keeps going and going and going. It is hard to believe she is 16 months now. Before I know it, she really will be 18 and leaving for college (hoping mommy and daddy can afford it by then; start your 529 plans now, my friends).

Anyway, question for all you parents out there. When do you start potty training, and can you share some methods that worked best for you? I am planning now so that I can get Savannah into pre-preschool. She can start at two, but needs to be potty trained. I am thinking she is just too young to start now, but I may be wrong. I brought her little potty into the house the other day, and she does like to sit on it, but she also likes to store mommy’s jewelry in it. Please tell me what worked for you and share some funny stories if you have them!

In remembrance, honor and love

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 09:39:00 GMT

Today is 9/11. It is hard to believe that it has now been eight years since the day of the attacks that claimed the lives of many and impacted the lives of all. I get choked up thinking about it, remembering where I was when I heard the news and witnessed the events on television. This was three careers and four living arrangements back, before I was married and seven years before Savannah came into this world. Yet, I, and many of us, carry the memory with us and today, I hope we all take a minute again to reflect on what really matters.

Like Alan Jackson asks, “Where were you when the world stopped turning, that September day?” Please take a minute to listen. To reflect and to think about what truly matters today and tomorrow.

To all my friends, I love you and wish we could get together more often, but know that you are always in my thoughts. To my family - all of you - you mean more than you know and I am so fortunate to be surrounded by such love and support. To my present and past colleagues, you have helped me become who I am today. To my husband, I am so proud of you and can’t imagine my life without you. To Savannah, you are my most precious gift. And to Buddy, you make me smile even when I catch you on the couch.

I’d also like to wish my sister Ali a happy birthday. Love you.

Matron of Honor

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 17:04:00 GMT

So, I am getting super excited. Tim and I leave tomorrow morning for a wedding we are both in up in Paso Robles. I love weddings. I love vacations. I love wine tasting in Paso. Tim and I are also looking forward to having a weekend for the two of us to reconnect, just the two of us for a nice car-ride up to the central coast. We have been so busy lately with work and the obligations that come with juggling work and family, that we have skipped out on many date nights and evenings at home after Savannah has gone to bed include catching up on e-mails and preparing for the following days meetings and what not.

With Tim opening his State Farm office this coming December, we are both well aware that vacations may be slim to none unless they are the hot “staycations” everyone is promoting these days (hey, I’m always game for a night at the Surf & Sand or Shorebreak – two of my favs here in Orange County offering awesome deals right now).
Shorebreak deal: $99.00 Special - Bookable until 09/09/09 for City Courtyard 1 Queen or 2 Doubles. Vaild for stays from Sept. 7 - 30, 2009.

With that being said, we are really looking forward to this weekend. The only buzz-kill is that I am a Matron of Honor. A Matron! That just sounds like I pulled the Old Maid card. Maid of Honor is one thing, but Matron just means you are married and old. Well, I have a mission this weekend – to put that stereotype to rest. This Matron of Honor is going to close the wedding down and those young bridesmaids and the Maid of Honor are not going to know what hit them. My hubby Tim is the best man and I have to ask, why isn’t he labeled the “Eldest Man”???

I also get a little bummed out thinking that Savannah will be back at home – I miss her tons when I leave for just one night and this is three whole nights – wish me luck. But she is in the best of hands and will definitely have more fun hanging out with her aunties and cousins than old Matrons and Eldsmen.

Have a great Labor Day weekend people. Celebrate hard work, accomplishments, health, family and friends. And congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Shanley!

New kiddo museum comes to the OC

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:04:00 GMT

So, I am exhausted today (so glad it is Friday and I can sleep in till 7 when Savannah wakes up). I was up bright and early this morning to help staff Pretend City's media event where the keys to the small-scale city were handed over to Orange County resident and Lakers player, Kobe Bryant and his beautiful family. Kobe seems like a great dad and to see his adorable kids look up to him, and I mean LOOK UP TO HIM, with such excitement, I though to myself… "they're a normal family just like mine and many others.” But they are SO not. I can’t even imagine what it is like to be followed by crowds at all times. To not even be able to go to the local grocery store to pick up a few things without being recognized and bombarded. They are always paraded around with the MIB – you know the guys with the cool sunglasses and wired earpieces. Can’t imagine and not sure I would trade my freedoms and effortless acts to go unnoticed for the luxuries this family may have.

In any case, the Bryant family enjoyed the museum and I personally can’t wait to take Savannah. I am not sure who is going to have more fun, Savannah or her daddy. You really have to see the museum first-hand to understand the concept, but Pretend City is a 28,000-sq. ft. small city. There is a miniature art studio, marina, beach, café, orchard, grocery store, doctor’s office, fire station and much, much more. And going with the family won’t break the bank. Go after 4 p.m. and adults and kids only cost $5 (those under one are just a buck). Visit the site for all pricing and hours of operation.

Hope you get out to see the museum soon, it is really unique and if you see Kobe, don’t call the paparazzi.

Read more about the Pretend City media event at OC METRO.

Exercise makes you fatter???

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 12:29:00 GMT

TIME magazine recently featured a story titled, “Why Exercise Won’t Make You Thin.” I understand certain points explored in the article and admit that I too have indulged in something I may not eat on a regular basis after a grueling workout (not going to say what sinful morsels I snack on 'cause my trainer is no doubt reading this). But, I will defend myself and state that these situations are very rare and that my gluttonous snacks are not all that bad – in moderation (frozen yogurt, avocados, nuts, peanut butter).

Anyway, this mama is addicted to exercise. Have been for as long as I can remember. My perfect day would be hiking El Moro or a long bike ride. To me, to perspire is something of beauty and almost a drug. Why else would I subject myself to two-hour hot yoga classes? Basically it comes down to this for me – my personal goal and the reason I make exercise and healthy eating a priority – I want to be healthy, strong and active for as long as I possibly can, and to make this happen, I work at it. Savannah has made me more determined and motivated to be the best version of myself. I want to snowboard with her, swim with her, hike with her and so on and so on. Is exercise and common sense about what I put into my body an obsession?? My husband claims it is, and I guess I have to agree. But I do splurge, like all of us on occasion, and that is OK (again, trainer reading this, so I am in for a SERIOUS butt-kicking). We all have our own goals when it comes to fitness. Maybe it’s to lose weight, to work on problem areas, to reduce body fat, to firm and strengthen. Whatever the case may be, fitness goals are unique to each person and if your fitness goal is to “fit” perfectly on the couch and throw back a few beers … so be it.

Back to the TIME article: The one gripe I have is that it really doesn’t talk about the fact that muscle weighs more than fat (and looks better than fat too). I have been working out with a trainer now for about two months, and I have gained weight. There, I said it. Now, I am not telling exactly what the scale reads, but I am OK with the number and I feel better, stronger, leaner and meaner (OK, not so mean, actually, I am happier and I think that too is a result of working out more). Plus, I keep telling my trainer and myself that the human head weighs an average of 8 pounds (more for some people we know), and I subtract that from my overall weight. (I will reveal my before and after training BMI and body fat percentage in a future blog.)

I asked my trainer to comment on the article and here are his thoughts:
Interesting article, but they are kind of missing the point of exercise for weight loss. First off, the author explains a lot more about his exercise than he did his food intake, which makes up 80 percent of a fat-loss goal. That's another thing; they are referring to this as a weight-loss study and not a fat-loss study. Exercise alone can’t make a person lose any significant amount of weight. The reason that people need to exercise when trying to lose weight is because the goal should actually be to keep muscle and lose extra fat, not just weight. The problem is that doctors often use BMI to measure how healthy a person is, rather than body fat percentage. If a person loses 20 pounds and their BMI goes down, but their body fat doesn't change, they are in the same position as when they started. However, if a person loses 20 pounds AND 8 percent body fat, they have lost more than 20 pounds of fat and gained muscle. That would in turn speed up their metabolism, make the heart's job easier, and that person would be all the more healthier. The study also lacked a true "control" group. The author mentioned that some of the women in the exercise groups moved less and ate more after exercise, but they should have been asked to maintain everything about their lives besides the exercise.

A big obstacle for many of us when it comes to exercise is finding the time to actually do it. When you have a family, a career and other obligations, this gets even more challenging. I have to thank my AMAZING husband and Ama and Papa for helping out with Savannah in the mornings so mama can get to the gym. I truly believe this time for myself makes me a better mommy and wife. Thank you (and if you don't agree, keep it to yourself).

Lastly, I have had a few personal trainers I have worked with and most have been total meat heads, and I really didn’t feel like they cared about whether I reached my goals or not. The guy I am working out with now really invests time in understanding the big picture. He has a nice way about making me feel like I am the one doing the work, and he is just supporting me in reaching my goals. If you have ever had a trainer, this should make sense. And if you have not had a trainer, but have thought about it, I highly recommend him. His info is below. Give him a call and maybe I’ll see you at the gym!

John Sanchez Fitness
949.887.5561
John is offering readers of my blog a complimentary fitness assessment. Go in, meet with him and tell him what your personal health goals are. He will work with you to customize a plan. John trains at a gym in Costa Mesa near where 17th and Newport Boulevard meet. He also offers private lessons out of your home if that is your cup of tea.

Now for a freebie this Friday: My workout plan from this past Tuesday.

High lunges (stepping up onto high platform) 20 each side
Squats w/ 25 lb. weight, 20 each side
Chest press 20 lbs, 20, 3 reps
Jump squats (this was done in the parking lot of the gym - very embarrassing and seriously made me want to toss my marbles)
Curl press 10 lbs., 20, 3 reps
Rear-lateral raises, 7.5 lbs., 20, 3 reps
Push-up planks (these just plain suck), 15, 3 reps
Crunches, 20, 3 reps

The final days of summer

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:46:00 GMT

At the gym this morning I heard the guys next to me talking about football season starting and what games were on this weekend. My mind immediately went to: “What, football season? Summer is over?” Don’t get me wrong, I love me some football. I started going to Niners games with my dad when I was about 3, and Savannah will probably go to her first Niner or Charger game this year. I grew up in Marin County, and like Tony Bennett sings, "I left (a piece of) my heart in San Francisco." Now, in the O.C. and going to college in San Diego, I have to shout, “Show me your lightning bolts.”

I love the fall. It’s probably my favorite season (if there are seasons in Orange County). The weather is still beautiful, you can still wear shorts and flip-flops, the summer tourists no longer crowd the beaches, and yet there is a slight chill in the air that let’s you know fall has arrived.

With that, I am trying to pack in as many pool days and beach bike rides as I can. Savvy loves the water. I think she could spend all day in the pool. Berlyn, who watches Savannah a few days out of the week, sends me pictures (while I am at work, inside, at my desk) of the two of them at the beach, in the pool, enjoying afternoons of slip-n-slide. I love getting these pics.

At only 15 months old, Savannah has some great tan lines. We load her up with sunscreen and she has never gotten a burn, just great color. OK, I don’t push many products, but I love the product line by Smart Girls Who Surf. Cute packaging, not heavy or greasy, the sunscreens smell so good, and the products are made with all-natural ingredients so I don’t worry about putting them all over Savannah. I LOVE the after-sun soothing lotion and keep it in my purse all the time cause it just smells so good and is so light. Plus, this company is local – in Laguna Beach – and was started by a mom with a dream. And I support all moms out there who go after their dreams! You go, moms!

And for all you moms, dads, kids, grandparents, sisters, etc., with birthdays in August, celebrate with a free chocolate lava cake from Domino’s Pizza. Anyone with a birthday in August gets a free piece of cake on his/her birthday (proof of b-day required).

Gotta end off with this: GO NINERS – this is our comeback year!!!

Babies, babies everywhere!

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 15:11:00 GMT

I thought it was spring that signified “new life." Little baby lambs and chicks frolicking in fields, Easter and new flowers blooming after the cold of winter. Maybe this season of “new life” has encroached upon summer, too. I am seeing prego mommies everywhere. I almost feel like a minority these days and a little left out when not shopping in the maternity aisle (although I really get a little sick to my stomach thinking about maternity clothes).

I am also getting THE question a lot lately too. You know the one: “So, Savannah is over a year now, when you going for No. 2?” That is a question and conversation that remains within the Bush-family house. We have a lot going on in our lives these days. I am in a new position as Director of Communications at ripeorange; Tim is opening his own State Farm office in Newport Beach in December; Savannah is all over the place – literally, you can’t keep that girl stationary; and Buddy (the dog) is taking it all in stride. (I think he is the coolest, calmest one of us all, but then again, what stress does a dog bear. He gets treats, rub-downs and sleeps a majority of the day.)

We know we want to have more Bushes. Tim says he wants enough to field a baseball team, and I told him cool, find a new wife. In time there will be more little feet, more laughter in the house, more chaos and more love. But for now, I love to hear my friends' excitement when they share the big news. The journey (the 10-month incubation period – yes, 10, not the nine months that we all thought prepregnancy), is so amazing. The mystery and fascination almost overwhelming at times. For all those preggo mommies out there, enjoy every bit. Write about it. Drink Ginger Ale to ease nausea and just go with it.

One of my bestest friends just let the cat out of the bag a couple days ago. It was killing me to not shout it out to the world. But, I held back and am SOOOO proud of myself.

Congratulations, Kantruds – good times await! She shared her ultrasound images and was OK with me sharing this with you. Enjoy. She asks, "Boy, what do you think???"