POP Boyz Band Practice.wmv

YAY! The Boyz rockin the Hous!!!!

Rainy day...just put on the wetsuits and we are good to go!

Game on!

Bring the skinboards and boogieboards!

Mama and her boy...

Ashton doin it up!

Yay Bubs!

oh yay!

Not your average Mama!

Elisa...

P21...

Ashton...

Ryan...

Bubba!

Ashton...

Tackle time!

Well it's FRIDAY so why not have a sleep over with 6 kids! :)

Random Friday after school time! All the kids wanted to spend the night so why not? Good times always!

Dinner time....

Oh yeah...I brought 6 kids home with me and came home to this awesome stir fry dinner! YAY!

Nerf gun wars are the best! Davey looks scary here!

Dessert time!

Mummy game...

ROCK THE BAND!!!!!

Movie and Popcorn!

FULL MOON...What did you do?

What did you do with the FULLEST moon of the year?

On our way to surf, Autumn started off the day with a ticket...

Let softball begin! YAY MADS!!!!!!

Bubs and Jordie keepin' busy!

Batting cages!

After a great practice and day we decided to go to the BEST restaurant...Rudy's! After a great meal we decided to FLY!!!!!

Kids BEFORE...

BEFORE....

View of the FULLEST MOON of the year from the hot air balloon!!

Do you like heights????

In the air...

View of OC!

FLYING!!!!!!

The celebration continues....Happy Birthday Mason! A "skippy" day!

Mason decided to snowboard today for his big 0-6!

5:45 am...leaving the house! Gotta get up early to get have fun!

Mas DAWG!!!!!

Maybe we could build a snowman!

Whew days done! Good job dude!

He is a natural stud!

Happy 6th Birthday Mason! We love you!

I can hardly believe my baby is 6! This year has been a big change for me! Mason started kindergarten and my life as a stay at home Mom changed. It was so hard at first but I adapted quickly to a new routine! I have kids now...no more diapers, nursing, and playing baby games. Instead we surf and skate and play with the big kids...it is different. BUT GOOD!!!

However, Mason, at 6 years old you are still my baby (and will always be)! You still love to cuddle with me and spend time hanging out with the family. You love to fish with Grampie, ripstick, sK8, surf, wakeboard, kneeboard, tube and play just about any sport. You are super athletic and very handsome! I love all your ideas from jumping in the pool with a helmet and sk8board to putting rubber bands on your YO BABY so it will stick to your feet while you jump! You have your own style...you LOVE shoes and skinny jeans! You think school is just OK and you are so happy each day when I pick you up! You are very handy around the house with your little tools, you love to build! You tell me often that you remember what heaven was like before you came down to be with me! Mason, I love you with all my heart. I could not be prouder to be your Mom (and Moey's Mom)! Happy 6th birthday my sweet boy!!!!!!

Mason, Mama and Dad! Football time!

Kelly taught us how to make Fondant cakes so for Mason's big 6 we made him a football field! Its a process but worth it! First part....

Elisa loved to play with this....she thought it was playdough!

Field coloring...check! We made most of the cake during IDOL with P's help too! This is a sacred time in my house (IDOL)! This just shows how much we love you Bubs!

DONE and DELISH!!!!!!!

Parteeeee time....Mama and Mads

Daddy and his girl!

Yay 06! It's your day!!!!!

Let the games begin...

Huddle...

Johanna and Emily...

Mads and Jordie...

Mads, Jordie and Maddy...

Ashton...

Mas with his girls!

Christian and my girls...

Oh furball always loving her Dave!

Happy Birthday to you Mason!

All the kids...

A new sk8board for his big day!

AND A SNOWBOARD (Mas and Dad are doing a "skippie" from school today! They are on their way to try the new board out)! YAY!!!!!

Bday partee take 2...costume change and this dude is ready! He is a real MULTI PLAYER!

Volcolm sk8 park! Mas DAWG!!!!

Go Mas!!!!!

Ashton...

Jack...

Big Daddy still catchin air!

Checkin out the bowl...

Mason and Ashton..

Ryan...

P got a lil hungry! AGAIN!!!

Daddy sk8ing at Volcolm!

Boys Trip to the Big Bear! GO BUFFALOS!!!!!!

Boys will be boys...TWO RULES....HAVE FUN AND DON'T TELL MOM! :) Dave and Mason had the awesome opportunity to go with the Indian Guides to Arrowhead for the weekend. Boys don't take many pictures so I am thankful for whatever I get. They had lots of fun playing in the snow, snowboarding (Mason can do a 360 and he will tell you all about it)! Who knows what else they did...remember the rules...DON'T TELL MOM!

The resort they rented...40 acres!

Inside one of the cabins...

Inside the cabin...

Cooking it up! Dave and Todd...

Pictures of the resort....

This is their campout from the end of summer! I just got these pictures!

Getting ready to attack another tribe with marshmallows!

Water balloons!

Ruthie was the only girl there! :)

Day 3 AZ! Whew and we are all tired after a packed weekend but oh so fun!

So Frickie is the BIG CHIEF when we all hang out. She finally let me in the tribe and let me wear some of Gramma's Indian jewelry and try her hookie! Hooowww CHIEF FRICKIE! :)

Jordie and Mads...

Elisa driving the boat...

Bella is such a great water dog as long as she is not in the water! :)

Lots of fun pictures from WAKEBOARDING! If you want to see more go to Waves of Mercy blog! bluecrushers.blogspot.com

Jordie...

Mads...

E...

Lori and BLUR....

went in my bikini first...a lil chilly but worth it!

P...

Frickie...

Tubing is so fun!

Day 2....the fun continues!

Mads and Jordie getting ready for a fun day! These girls can keep up!

A little cardio tennis and some friendly games to start the day...

Now that's one heck of a team! YELLOW DAWGS!!!!

yeller team checkin in for the days activities....bow wow!

So we are totally ready for MUDDY ADVENTURES!!! Do not attempt this on your own! We are trained professionals!

Quads check!

Kneeboard check!

Jordie...

The dream team!

Mads...

A good team has a quad always follow! :)

Poo Poo's check! TIME TO RUN!!!!!!!!!!!

That's my girls!!!!

Quading fun!

We love to in drive the Camero

Bella, Lori, Elisa, P and Frickie....

Driving at sunset!

Caramba's with Sue and E!

Speed Way Racing!

Time to fly!

P, we can't keep the helmets!

VRRRRRROOOOOOMMMMMMMM!!!!!!

PINK WINS!!!

Air Hockey!

Peace Cakes! YUMMY!!!!! Thank you Frickie and Elisa!

Love it! Thanks Frickie! DELISH!!!!!!!

YAY BLUR!!!!!!!

Day one in AZ! We sure know how to pack it in!

A little tennis to start off the day!

I love these girls! Super fun!

yellow, green and PINK having a drink!

A nice clean QUAD ride in the AZ desert! Yeah right! The dirtier the better!

Mama with the girls! Yep, it's Friday and we are not in school!

Maybe we should've stayed in school so we could read the signs! :)

Frickie and Jordie! FASTER Jordie yells!

Me, Mads and Frickie...

Elisa, P and Jordie...

Mama and the girls...

SO FUN!!!!!!!!

Can you make it up the big hill??? Oh yes you can!

After a long day, it is always nice to hop in the jacuzzi! But Bella you need to stay out cause you can't swim girl! :)

Mads and Jordie....

Frickie and Ashton! So cute lil Man!

If you haven't played BUZZ on PS3 I would highly recommend it!

Here is a lil video footage from Quading!

Days done! It was an awesome day....evening comes and time for more fun...HOOKAH!

ROAD TRIPS ARE THE BEST! Wouldn't you want to be in this car??...

Oh yeah baby! All the fun of a road-trip is in this SPORTS utility vehicle! We packed....wetsuits, snow clothes, life jackets, tennis racquets and wakeboards! AND WE USED IT ALL! So fun!

Bella loves road trips! She slept the whole way and way back! Good B!

P crocheting! We loves all our scarves!

Jordie and Mads...I love these girls!

Elisa the ultimate road warrior!

Twisters in HB!

Bella and I are ready for our next adventure.....TWISTER CHASERS!!!! HAHAHAHA!!!! JUST KIDDING MOM! :)

Huntington Beach Harbor yesterday

Our pier....yikes!

Bella is ready in her lifejacket! Storm Chaser check!!!!! :)

Larry Platt - Memorable auditions

OH YEAH LARRY! KEEP YOUR PANTS OFF THE GROUND!!!!! LOVE THIS GUY!

Larry Platt - Memorable auditions

Raining Day with the kids...

Mads, Mas, Fionia and Iain....

Grabbing some donuts...

Bubba playing on the pogo stick....

Mads trying...

Camping Bolsa Chica Beach in January! Good times!

Good ol' Ruthie B. This girl is always taking us on adventures!

It was a great day to play with the kites on the beach!!!!! Bubba got his in the air right away...

Moey did too!

Autumn didn't have as much luck! :)

So Mads let Autumn and Laynie borrow hers! :)

Bella the HUNTER was able to get Autumn and Laynie's kite!

Frisby time with Bella...

Good girl...

Kids off to play in the water....

Boys will be boys!
And I love that girl in the middle!
GO MADS!!!!
Mads and Mas loving the water!

Bike ride time! Mads, Mas and Christian...

Go Daddy!
Moey...
Days end...amazing sunset! The stokes of HIS beauty rush through the sky!!!

Daddy and Moey checking out the sunset. I LOVE THIS PICTURE!!!!!Enjoying the sunset...

Bonfire and Marshmallow Gun fun (thanks to DanO)!

Mads loves S'MORES!
The proud parents of a new baby Bella...
The BOYS!

Morning fun...more Marshmallow Gun time...poor bike riders that went past our RV! :)I LOVE THIS KID AND ALL HIS IDEAS! BRILLIANT!

I LOVE waking up to days like today....

Bella and I woke up early this morning (as usual). We have been spoiled by the SUNRISES lately! See the morning...see it rising! WAKE UP WORLD! You are missing out!

Me and Bella in Newport Beach before I go surf...

Me and Autumn heading out...where to go with 120 people in the h20?

Me getting up....gotta get get! :)

Just relaxing with Daddy....

Good times with Dad! He wore Bubba and Bella out...

Stan the Man on another adventure in AZ!

Keeping up with Stan the Man in AZ....great day wakeboarding...NO NEED FOR A WETSUIT! GO STAN!!!!!!

Yay Kelly for hanging with Stan on the QUADS! Can't wait til next week when we take Stan's place and are ridin' with ya!!!!!

Paddle Out for Autumn's Dad! We miss you Papa Wayne!

Two years ago today I got a phone call I will never forget....

Autumn called me to tell me her Dad past away. I can never put into words how I felt at that moment and trying to do so would be a waste. I can only say it was the most surreal moment. I couldn't believe it. I kept asking her if she was joking. I was shocked. I didn't know what to do.

I learned a lot that day. I learned to tell those around me I LOVE YOU because you never know when that will be the last time you get to say it. I learned to look at one of my best friends and watch her cry and know there is NOTHING in the world I could say or do for her other than be there. I learned DEATH is hard. No matter what your beliefs are DEATH seperates us for a period of time. I learned that Autumn will never be the same in life. I learned that the world still goes on, even if your heart is broken. I learned that the hardest thing to do is go to a funeral and watch one of your best friends give the most amazing speech about their Dad and it's OK to cry. I learned children will ask innocent questions about where is Grandpa? AND it's OK to cry! I learned that tears are good because if we keep them in it makes the day harder.

I LEARNED A LOT THAT YEAR.

Lori and Autumn at the paddle out talking as usual!

Brett and Dave (probably not talking, as usual :))

Autumn...

Lori...

If you ever need to know how to spell something just ask these two...

Congrats to Madison and Caleb! They are the 2nd (Caleb) and 3rd (Madison) grade Spelling Bee winners for Prince of Peace! Mads told me she had no worries about the Spelling Bee. "Mom, I just prayed twice before and I knew God would help me." I love her so much. My prayer today is that we all have faith like a child!

More Flat Stan...

Lucky Stan the Man still hanging in AZ with Kelly! GO CARDS!!!!!!!!!!

Morning Walks on the Beach with Bella...

Bella has captured my heart as many of you may know. I LOVE our morning walks on the beach! I really enjoy just hanging out with her and quiet time. The beach is awesome for that...

Blackies today was a great place to surf! I was sick so no h20 for me...

Sweet Bella enjoying the WATER!

Bonfire Nights in January!

Love bonfires...they are so relaxing and peaceful! I love the stories shared by a bonfire, the marshmallows roasted, the laughter and there have even been tears. Just a closeness that can only happen between people once that match is struck and the sparks begin....

P and Bubba roasting marshmallows!

Mads and E...

Bubba....

Soups on!

Ummmmmmuuummmmm.....being married to a chef SOMETIMES has its benefits! I say sometimes cause Dave rarely cooks at home. 2 reasons for this: 1. he is too tired from working long hours Chefs do. 2. I have to usually clean up after him and it ain't pretty!

Last night was a good soup night. Dave made us Beef and Barley stew! It was delish! I asked him what he put in it to share with you all but he said the same as always, "I don't know whatever looked good." Well Davey, it not only looked good it was GREAT!

Flat Stanley....

Madison is excited to introduce "Flat Stanley" to her friends and family. This is how it works...

Madison was able to select 4 luck people to have Stanley come visit them. They take Stanley on adventures with them and then share with Mads what Stan did with them! Madison picked Kelly, Gram and Gramp, The McLeans and Alexis! All 4 are sure to show Stan a good time!

Here is Stan with Kelly in AZ so far....

He got to root for UT! Poor Horns lost but Stan had fun...

Lucky Stan got to go on a hike in AZ and spend time with Jesus on top of a mountain! Then he went on a run in the desert....he had a little accident with some catcus! OUCH!!!!!

Stan is currently at the Cards game! GO AZ pack that cheese!

Fun times after school with buddies....

Ashton and Mason playing after a great surf ses at blackies....LUCKIES!!!

I love this pic! My babies....sunset time!

They love to dress up! NACHO LIBRE and his gang!

Believe it or not these two are dressed to go fishing! Yep, night fishing with Dave at the HB pier! Super fun times! LOVE THESE BOYS!!!!!

It's the NEW YEAR...time to eat healthy!

Nothing like a good salad....

Butter leaf lettuce

Avocado (good fat)

Persian cucumbers

Tri colored mini bell peppers

Grapevine Super Sweet Tomatoes

Sunflower Seeds

Dressing...

Go UT!

Well even though they didn't win we had a great time hookin' them horns! Next time boys!

Football celebrations make for great food and parties!

P and Lori representin' in the burnt orange! HOOK'EM!!!!

Jordie and Mads....so cute!

Mads made Distinguished Honor Roll

Go Moey! She got straight A's and A+'s again this year so far! Super excited for her as she received DISTINGUISHED honor roll. 95% or better only! Way to be Moey! We are super proud of our girl!

YAY J! Way to make the wine list baby! GO GAINEY!!!!!

CHARDONNAY

Gainey 2007, Santa Rita Hills, Jeff Lebard 9 / 29

Foley Estates Bien Nacido 2007, Santa Maria Valley, Allen Phillips 12 / 42

Mer Soleil Silver 2007, Santa Lucia Highlands, Charlie Wagner II 12 / 42

Pine Ridge Dijon Clones 2007, Napa Valley, Gary Andrus 14 / 46

Melville 2007, Santa Rita Hills, Greg Brewer 40

El Molino Rutherford 2007, Napa Valley, Lily Oliver & Jon Berlin 64

Nickel & Nickel Searby 2007, Russian River, Darice Spinelli 66

Maldonado 2005, Napa Valley, Abe Schoener 72

AI starts Jan 12th

Awwww yay baby! AI starts Jan. 12th of Fox! I am not one who watches television. Actually, it is rarely on in our house. The kids don't even have shows...there is one time of year I am sure not to miss...yep AI! LOVE IT! So here's to the chai and graham crackers, Simon and all the judges! Best AI memory....when Elisa and I went live and yes we were the girls standing in front of the stage. We got to meet Simon, Paula and Randy! Both Davids sang in front of us and even touched us. There is no way we would ever be able to top that experience unless I got discovered finally and was a contestant myself! Hahahahah! :)

Fun times at Blackie for the kiddies....

Today is 01/02/2010....front and back it reads the same!

Ready for fun times in the water! Sister and brother...

Mason in his new wetsuit ready to go out....

Go Mads...

Mason with style! :)

Bella LOVES the beach!

They are SO CUTE!

Happy 01/01

Happy 01/01/10 to all!

Gen 1:1

"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."

New Year is a time to reflect on some things we would like to do. Challenges we would like to face, goals accomplished, etc. The bible states that He has been since the beginning of time. He was here first! My prayer is that my family will put Him first in all our goals for the New Year to come!

Dave's Goal: Gain 10 pounds! OK he was kidding cause he wanted to go against the grain! Really to get in shape!

Lori: Ride Blur 180 air! Yep, that is the goal...maybe a 1/2 marathon in there in May (come on girl we can do it again).

Madison: do some awesome tricks on her kneeboard and try and jump on the wakeboard.

Mason: try and jump on the wakeboard.

Well there are all our goals. May we find HIM in each of these in some way or another. Hopefully, JOY will prevail in them all!

It was a beautiful day for a bike ride on the beach! Great way to start off the year with a little exercise! The kids rode 4 miles! Yay!

Mama, Bella and Mads

Dave and Bubs

Bella's first bike ride!

After a great day at the beach, Elisa and I decided to start our year off with a little run! 5K check! Gotta love new running shoes! Kayano's are the BEST!

Happy '09 to you P! FINALLY got your resolution done! NIGHT SURF!

FULL MOON!!!!

Just wanted to take Frickie with me! Yay 33!

In the parking lot suiting up...

P about to go in! YIKES!!

Lori, P and Elisa...

IN THE WATER BY MOON LIGHT....

P....

Lori...

Elisa...

My Green Bean Adventure's: The Adventure Begins....

Super excited for E to start her new adventures...

My Green Bean Adventure's: The Adventure Begins....

Happy New Years Eve to all!

Ummm...nothing like P's crepes to start of the celebrations of the New Year! They are delish! Add a little bacon and yep pretty sure these will be in heaven! :) Tonight is goin be a good, good night! Happy Day all!

Fun times at Refugio Beach!

Mason had a blast this Christmas! Mas went fishing with his Gramp, Uncle J, Dad and Uncle Colin 4 times! There are no pictures cause they are boys! I want to give a HUGE shout out to my Dad and brother. Mason loves these two so much. My dad is the only grandpa my kids have. It may seem sad but Grampie more than makes up for what may have been missing! Uncle J, Mason adores you. I know how much fun he has with Uncle J and all their adventures! Thank you for showing Mason love! My kids are blessed!

Mads and Bella at the beach...

Auntie Chrissy and Emma

Who is leading who?

Sisters....

Teaching Moey to shoot that gun...thanks Gramp for teaching me when I was a wee one!

Go Mads...

1st shot and hit the target! Mama's still got it baby!

After all that play time the kids need to relax in the jacuzzi!

Mas, Emma, Hannah and Mads

Hannah and Mads

CHRISTMAS VACATION...literally we were just like the movie! It was awesome!

And this is how the Baumanns roll....Merry Christmas Ruthie B.

BB guns and happy kids...don't shoot your eye out!

The kids literally play all day and all night at G&G's house! It is so much fun to get bundled up, grab the flash lights and play hiding go seek in the dark. BEST childhood memories in that huge field!

Emma and Mads

WOW! Do I need to say anything...Uncle J, Eddie (I mean Dave) and Bubs

Bonfire and shootin' late night outside the rv!

This guy made it up til midnight with all the big boys and girls! He was so happy shooting his gun! Super proud! And then, as the clock stroke 12 this dude was crying for his bed! Nice to know he is still my little boy!

Christmas eve night and Christmas morning at G&G's house!

Fun times Christmas eve...matching PJ's and popcorn tubs!

All G&G's grandkids....good looking bunch! GREAT genes! :)

Buba and Ash....

Nanie and all the GREAT grandkids!

Auntie Tracy and Bella...

Hannah...

Every kids dream..THE RED RYDER BB GUN!

IN PINK TOO!

Christmas Eve at our house! M&M are extra good and get to have Santa come 1 day early to our house!

Our Tree...

Happy as a kids can be on Christmas Day!

Bella opening presents

Yay Mads....

Look what Mama got....Bella loves Mama's new HOT WAKEBOARD! BLUR is going to be christened in January at PLEASANT! YAY!

Everyone loves a lil' Chrismas cheer...

Peppermint is the flavor of the season! Hey, I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't taste ALL the peppermint items! :)

Science Discovery Center at Christmas Time!

Elisa took all the kids to the Science Discovery Center at Christmas (and I had the day off to surf a point break, thanks Elisa). The kids had a blast!

Laying on a bed of nails...this dude is tough

So many Gingerbread displays...

Iain and Mads...

Mads and Buba

Pulley system in action...

Hockey...

Dinosaurs...

Awesome Christmas lights in Anaheim Hills and fun times with Elisa...

Christmas lights in AH! This community goes all out for the season! Most of the homes are water front, making the lights look more awesome!

Baking Christmas cookies....

Time to sell them...great minds!

#22...Rock Harbor Church Service

This past weekend I had the opportunity to go to Rock Harbor (thanks Kelly for the choose). It was AWESOME! The worship was amazing! Christmas and its true meaning was the focus! True JOY in Christ was explained. There is a difference between JOY and happiness. Happiness is felt when outside surroundings make us feel good. JOY comes from knowing the Lord. In sorrow we are still able to feel JOY because we know Him. So my prayer this morning is JOY to the world! LET EVERY HEART PREPARE HIM A ROOM! Listen to the words, prepare Him room in your heart. He is waiting! Merry CHRISTmas!

#21...Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Trader Joe's takes the cake (or cookie) on my favorite new find for the Christmas Holiday!

#20....Making New Year Dreams come true!

My New Year resolution for 2009 was to surf a point break! CHECK! P, Kelly and I surfed Malibu this morning! We were in the water for 3 1/2 hours! It was AMAZING! Water was 60 degrees and glass! Chest high and bigger....rights, rights, rights (but hey, I got 5 lefts too)! 2010...can't wait to see what I come up with for you! Check bluecrushers.blogspot.com to see more from today!

Lori surfing The point....

How the Grinch Stole Christmas at Pantages!

Mads got straight A's and A+'s! She is such a bright young girl! We are super proud of her! For her hard work, Kelly, Elisa and I took her to the Grinch! Before the show, I took her out to buy a new dress! Then off to Hollywood! It was such a great night! We had so much fun! After Hollywood, we went to Spagattini's for dessert! Mads loves creme brulee! We had to get the princess her favorite dessert for such a great job! SUPER FUN NIGHT! CONGRATS MADS!!!!!

You're not supposed to take pictures in the theatre...

Mads and Mama

Elisa, Lori and Kelly

The girls...

Scary...

Pantages...

Hollywood and Vine...what's your dream???

Capitol Records....Merry Christmas!

Pick your star...

#19...Santa Babies playing tennis...

Gotta love playing tennis....We won everytime!

#18....the kids Christmas Program

Go Mads...

Mads singing....she is supposed to be a rich daughter...

Mads and Mas

Taylor...

Maddy Nickless the "star"

RJ...a camel

This was such a cute program! Yay Kids!

#17...Surfing Santa Babies

I love surfing. I always have a great time and feel refreshed after a good ses! Gotta love the surfing Santa's! Merry Christmas! OH WHAT FUN IT IS TO RIDE....

#16...Friends...I love my friends!

Christmas time is a time to share with loved ones! I LOVE all these girls! We had so much fun snow boarding (or trying, hee hee) at Big Bear yesterday! Happy Birthday Lauren! Yay!

P, Autumn, Lauren, Lori, Kelly and Elisa

Big Bear...thanks God!

Lori and Kelly...bunny slopes here we come!

Kelly, Lori, P and Elisa...

Elisa, Autumn and Lauren

Lori, E and Kelly

Happy Birthday...good thing she has that helmet! Whew...she flies!

Kelly and Lauren

Elisa and Bun Bun

Had to represent our teams....yellow, green and PINK (hey, it's my blog)

Chair lift fun!

P...

Elisa...

Kelly...

Lori...

And at the end of the day we were pros...jumping was easy! hahahahaha!

P...

Kelly...

Elisa...

Lori....

#15....Plays at this time of year

My mom always treat us girls to a wonderful play at the PCPA this time of year. We go anytime after Thanksgiving til Christmas....this one was this past weekend! WE LOVED THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE! IT WAS FANTASTIC!

Nanie and Moey waiting for the play to begin...

4 generations...Nanie, Grammie, Mama, Moey and Ashie...

The whole crew...

Mama and her girl

Country Christmas in Santa Ynez and fun at Gainy!

Gainy...

Moey is so cute...rain or shine this girl has a smile!

Getting ready to walk the town...

Adorable boys!

E and Lori

Ashie and Laike

Decorating Christmas Cookies...

Gainy Winery

This old barn is on the winery! From the movie Of Men and Mice!

We had so much fun in Santa Ynez again this weekend. We went to Country Christmas in Santa Ynez! We got coffee and peppermint shakes from the local coffee shop. The shake was AMAZING! Yummy! Then we got our umbrellas out and walked all around the adorable town. The kids saw Santa, decorated their own Christmas cookies and then the fun really began! We went 4X4ing in Uncle J's new truck through Gainy Winery! It was so much fun in the rain and the mud! The winery this time of year is absolutely beautiful! Thanks Uncle J for the tour of the trail blazed by us! :)

#14...Santa Clause

We love to visit this jolly old man and his wife! :) They are a symbol of giving. We learned that the history of giving began with the Wise Men. They were the first people to give gifts on Christmas Day. We all know who they gave gifts to. And on that day when Christ was born the greatest gift of all, the gift of our savior and salvation in Him! Praise Jesus and thank you for Santa too!

#13...Christmas Crafts...

I still love these little wooden signs I made with Autumn. They are super cute and fun. Dave made the surfboard one that says, "oh what fun it is to ride." We love to decorate our house at Christmas! YAY!!!!

#12...Knott's Merry Farm!!!

I have never been to Knott's Berry Farm at Christmas (we always opt for Disneyland)! We went with Madison's class on a field trip! THIS WAS THE BEST FIELD TRIP EVER! First of all, it was raining a little so it really put you in the Christmas mood! Second, we got to see 2 shows! The Gift of the Magi was awesome! Snoopy on ice with all the ice skaters and Christmas carols! It was super fun! Totally recommend Knott's for Christmas!

Snoopy on ice! Christmas performance!

#11...Jammie rides to check out fun Christmas Lights!

We love doing jammie rides! After the kids get in their jammies and are all ready for bed I tell them to pile in the car for a "jammie ride." It is super fun to do these at Christmas to check out all the fun lights.

#11 is surely lights. This street off Bolsa Chica and Westminister really get into it!

#10...SNOW!

Dave and I got to go snowboarding yesterday (thanks E for babysitting). It was SO much fun! NO LINES, NEW SNOW AND FUN TIMES! #10 has to be snow because I love feeling this season. December is always a fun month to play in the snow to get that Christmas feeling!

Dave...

Lori

Live Nativity Scene..

This was so awesome. A drive thru live nativity scene in HB. First Christian Church puts it on. Real animals and people acting out the true Christmas story....the gift of our savior! 1207 Main Street 6:30-9:30 Wednesday thru Friday evening!

We all pilled in the back of Lauren's big RV!

Mary and Joseph looking for an inn...

The baby Jesus born in the inn...

Oh what fun on a rainy day!

Love these two...going to school on a rainy Monday!

The Buffalo's....Ducks Game Day!

The boys love the Indian Guides! It is so much fun to hear their stories of camping, games and all the stuff "mom isn't supposed to know." They get to go on a campout next month in Big Bear! I am sure it will be fun! Fun times for Dads and their boys!

#9....The Villages Nanie gave me!

These little Christmas decorations are especially dear to me. Nanie used to set these all up at her house when I was little. 3 years ago she gave them to me. She said, "I want you to have these. I am too old and tired to enjoy them anymore and I know you will put them up each year." I DO LOVE THEM! I love lighting all the candles in my living room, turning on these and watching Christmas movies! I love you Nanie!

#8...Cinnamon Brooms!

'Tis the season for these smelling delights! Cinnamon fills the air in my house and makes it very Christmasy! These brooms are much better than the pine cones! I do hide them behind couches cause they don't look so pretty!

#7...Ummm pretty sure these are going to be in heaven! ;)

My favorite pastry ever...NAPOLEON! Here's the secret...you must get one from Bauducco's in Westlake. If you do not, you will NEVER experience this heavenly treat. Trust me I have tried everywhere.

Christmas Parade downtown HB '09

We love to take a pedicab ride down Main Street every year before the parade begins...

Lori, Elisa, Paulette and sweet Bella

Mads and Jordie

The kids hanging at the parade...

Love the Woody's!

Mama and her girl!

Elisa and Lauren...

Remembering when...Mason's first HB Christmas parade! So cute!

Pictures from Grammie and Grampie's house...

M&M in Santa Ynez...

You'll shot your eye out kid...Errrr....I hope not!

Laike and Mads

#6...The kids being decorating their rooms...

I love that my kids really get into the spirit of things....Here is Mads room. She decorates her own tree (as does Mason). I love her bedding. I bought her Christmas sheets and flipped over her comforter so the look is all hers and Christmas without spending a ton of money. I did it on Mason's bed too. Both kids are super proud of their rooms and all their little decorations!

#5 Christmas Music...

I love all the Christmas music this time of year. Of course, Christain and Country are my favs. The new Sugarland Christmas CD is awesome. I also love the Chris Tomlin Christmas CD. 12 Days of Christmas:
Religious symbolism of The Twelve Days of Christmas
1 True Love refers to God 2 Turtle Doves refers to the Old and New Testaments 3 French Hens refers to Faith, Hope and LOVE 4 Calling Birds refers to the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists 5 Golden Rings refers to the first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace. 6 Geese A-laying refers to the six days of creation 7 Swans A-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments 8 Maids A-milking refers to the eight beatitudes 9 Ladies Dancing refers to the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit10 Lords A-leaping refers to the ten commandments 11 Pipers Piping refers to the eleven faithful apostles 12 Drummers Drumming refers to the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed

#4....Holiday Parties!

Super excited to go to our first Holiday party! So #4 is Christmas Parties. This one will be EXTRA special because we get to celebrate Spa Elan opening! CONGRATS AUNTIE TBIRDY!

At the Spa...Don't miss out on complementary Hors d'oeuvres by Executive Chef David Baumann Wine from The Gainey Vineyard Mini DNA Skin Cocktailsby DNA Professional Melissa Mellott Mini Makeovers or complementary color matching by gloMinerals make-up Artist Andrea Sutherland Spa Specials... THE FIRST 10 PEOPLETO SIGN UP FOR A LASH EXTENSION APPOINTMENT RECEIVE75% OFF A FULL SET!!! ANY FUTURE APPOINTMENT BOOKED AT THE EVENT WILL RECEIVE20% OFF THEIR BOOKED SERVICE Mark your calendar for our Holiday Celebration! Location: 1112 Faraday Street Santa Ynez, CA 93460 Time: 4-7 PM

Auntie TBirdy...WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU! At the Grand Opening Party, I was remembering when J and TBirdy first started dating and I asked her what she did. She told me she worked in a spa and one day wanted to own her own spa. CONGRATULATIONS! YOU DID IT GIRL! WE LOVE YOU!!!!!!

Apps from Davey....YEP they were so good...

Mom and me in the "Tootsie Room"

Me and Davey...

Mom and Me again...

Few of the people there....J talking to the his boss, Dan Gainy!

Mom and Adrianna (Vuko's girl)

The Boyzzz...Ken and J! I used to tell on these 2 boys all the time! Ahhh...they are both so grown up now and super successful! Good thing I told on them so they got caught all those times! :) I think I was the secret to their success!

Mads and Laike in the "Tootsie Room"

#3 Mini Loaf Banana Bread with Chocolate Chip and M&M's...

Mason is so cute this year. He wants EVERYTHING in the house to be decorated for Christmas. One morning after we got out all our Christmas decor out he asked me to make banana bread in these mini loaves. So here is #3 of my favorite things....Baking for my kiddies! This is my little way to show them I love them! Memorylane...I still can smell Nanie's Christmas cookies from when I was a kid. She always made sure we had our favorites. Mine were her BUTTERBALLS and Christmas Trees! Thanks Nanie!

These are a few of my favorite things #2

Bella of course! She is super tiny and even more adorable in a Christmas Stocking! 'Tis the season!

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON! 24 MORE DAYS TIL CHRISTMAS!!!!!

I love this time of year (even though its not summer)! I love how JOYFUL people are and all the giving that takes place this time of year. The music in the air, the warm clothes to keep you cozy, loved ones around! It is the most WONDERFUL time of the year! So the countdown in our house officially started today....

These are a few of my favorite things...I hope to list a new one each day.

Here is #1! My first Christmas gift of the season....STARBUCK ICE VENTI cups! These are awesome! Thanks E!

The Beautiful McLean Family! Awwww...we miss ya'll!

Happy Black Friday all!

Whew Black Friday is done! Wow....it was a huge success for me! Got lots of Christmas shopping done! HUGE deals! E and I started off at Old Navy at 1:34 a.m. We then headed to Target at 4:30 a.m. after that Kohls, and Michael's! Good day! After all the shopping Dave, the kids and I decided to start decorating for Christmas. This is the outside shelf at our house. Dave does an amazing job at decorating each year! Yay!

Best memory of Black Friday ads:

Mason was watching tv and a commercial for Walmart came on. The advertisement stated Walmart saves. Mason walked right up to Dave and said, "Walmart does not save, Jesus does!" Praise the Lord for that. Good job Bubba!

Happy Thanksgiving 2009!

We spent Thanksgiving at Todd's house this year. It was such a great feast! Really the guys did all the cooking and to no surprise it was awesome! Thanks boys!

Mama and Moey swinging...

Mama, Buba and Bella

Daddy and the girls

Moey and Mas...

Lori, E, Mads and Bella

Buba didn't want turkey so he though he would catch his dinner!

Turkey Trot to start off the day is always great. This race was casual and took place in Belmont Shores. It was on the beach and really pretty!

Peoria, Arizona....Day Two....

Days done. Desert sunsets are amazing. Back to CA!

E on Frickie's new board!

(to see more wakeboarding pictures go to Waves of Mercy blog... bluecrushers.blogspot.com)

Lori on Frickie's new board

THE PRO.....

Gotta love Arizona Desert in the morning! LOVE the Quad rides in the Desert! We got so dusty riding in the Desert that we had to go rinse off in the lake!

We literally had to get as low as we could to go through this brush. So fun!

Peoria, Arizona....Day One....

Frick, Lori and E...matching Christmas jammies! We celebrated Christmas early with Frickie! We need to encourage her at this time in her life. It will be so exciting to see where the Lord leads her next! Merry Christmas Frickie!

Dan O joined us on the lake the first day and showed us his stuff! Thanks Dan O for getting the boat ready, getting the Quads ready, making us breakfast, making us the famous Dan O Pumpkin Pie, making us Pumpkin ice cream, getting the jacuzzi hot and ready for us at night, putting all the boat stuff away, letting us use the Jeep and Camero, introducing us to Frank and your friends at Caramba's, and most of all LOVING KELLY as much as a father can love! The Joy of the Lord lives in you and shines through all you do. Hospitality and serving others is your gift from Him. THANK YOU SUE FOR WORKING FOR BOAT GAS MONEY!!!!!!!

Frick on her new board...

Lori....

Elisa...

Starting our day! Headed to the Bucks to get coffee in the Camero (1973)!

Thanksgiving break 2009....

Mads, Bella, Alex and Mackenzi. The girls all had so much fun having girl time at our house!

Mads and Alex at Disneyland...

Mads, Alex, Bubba, Ian and Fiona...

This dude has his own style...

Mason in his skinny jeans, high tops, belt and Volcolm hat. He loves to put his outfits together. We call him Scuba Steve because a lot of times his clothes do not match! LOVE HIM!

Our adventures in Austin, Texas!!!!

Hannah, Emma and Mason...

Our favorite TexMex...Chuy's! Best Queso on earth!

Auntie and Hannie...

Coffee on the lake at Mozart's Coffee Shop. So good!

Austin's Children's Museum....

Mads and Hannie rockin' out!

Time to cook...

Milking a cow! WOW!!!!!!

Hey Cupcake!

O.K. I have to say these are the BEST cupcakes ever. They even beat Sprinkles. We tried Double Chocolate (Hannie's favorite), Red Velvet, and Carrot Cake. All were amazing!

Mads swinging at Zigler Park...

E too!

Choo Choo!

This train ride is awesome. It is 25 minutes and takes you along Town Lake.

All aboard!

Town Lake....

MORE San Antonio fun....

The River Walk.

This was such a fun place. Our hotel was right on the River Walk which is about 5 miles of a cute canal with a ton of restaurants and shops along it. So pretty and fun!

Hook 'EM!!!!!!

Yeeehhaaawwww.....

Go E!

The oldest girls....

Auntie Lolo and Hannie....

Mama and Bubs....

The girls on the River Walk

Selah Grace....always happy! Seriously, I don't think she cries!

Auntie and the baby Grace....

Is there a bell man anywhere around here?

The Alamo! San Antonio, Texas!

The Baumanns at The Alamo...

Respect is very real here.

Bowie Knife...

Replica in the museum of the battle....

Canons....

St. Joseph Cathedral in San Antonio....awesome!

The Lone Star State....

St. Joseph....

At the airport...ready to fly!

1/2 Marathon San Antonio! Yeehaw!

Chris and Lori running past the McLean Fam! 33,000 people in the race! So fun! Finishers! YAY!

Chris and Emma...so proud of her Mama!

To see me and my sis...click on the link below!
http://www.asiorders.com/view_user_event.asp?EVENTID=46211&PWD=&BIB=17803

East of Eden tennis pros! Frickie and Lori!

Frickie came to visit and we always try and cram in as much as we can. Great surf in the morning, Keen is always a must, shopping, tennis at night with E and Michelle, BJ's, Starbucks, and then good ol' conversation time! Miss you Frickie....can't wait to see you again! SOON!!!!! PS the above was all done in one day! I know! :)

Happy Veteran's Day Grampie (and to all the men and women who served our country)!

We hope all the men and women who served our country had a good day off. Mason came home from school yesterday and said I want to make sure Grampie has the day off tomorrow (today). He is a Veteran and a Marine! He fought for our country so we can be free and he should go fishing!

I love these kids...I have know most of these kids since they were babies. Crazy how fast they are all growing up! Good times today!

Lukas, RJ, Bailey, Johanna, Jordan, Caleb, Mason, Ashton, Riley and Madison!

Mason...

Ashton...

Mads and Jo....

Bella loves the beach...good sweet girl! I love her keeping me warm after I surf!!

GOOD BELLA!

Buba and Ashton...

Uncle J in his new ride. Congrats J!

After school on Friday....THE BAND! ROCK ON!!!!

Bubs getting into it! Is this a look into teen age years...YIKES!!!!!

Ashton...

Mads...

Jordie...

Baumanns night at home!

We love hanging with our kiddies and their friends! They both have friends over all the time and it is so much fun for us all. Mads had Mackenzi over today. The girls ate pizza, jumped on the tramp, played Webkinz with Alexis, played Barbies for hours, baked cookies, rode bikes and played bball! Mason, Dave and I sk8ed, ripsticked, played football and basketball! All in one long afternoon and early evening! After dinner we all played ROCKBAND! You truly are as young as you feel!!!

Bella taking her evening rest!!!

Mads and Mackenzi baking cookies...YUM!

Dave and Mason shootin' hoops!

Everyone needs a break once in a while!!!!

sK8r....

Ramp rides on the ripstick.... a lot harder than it looks!

MY BOYZZZZZ...Droppin' in on their sk8boards on the ramps! Yay!

Nothing like a little tennis when the surf is no good....

Gotta love tennis. We had a great morning! Ran a little 5K then hit the courts!

The teams....E and Lori vs Autumn and Lauren! Fun times for sure!

E....doing it up!

Autumn....

Me...SERVICE!