Sactown Peeps!

Check out this awesome event benefiting the Sacramento Children's Museum...

My amazing friends Mary and Mike (Sister/Brother) are running the show. You can't beat good wine, food, and entertainment. It's gonna be a blast! I hope to see you there.

Different. Free...

I couldn't sleep last night. I was sitting in bed, my mind wandering, and I began to think about how different MY life is these days. It's so much less stressful and WAY more enjoyable.

(L to R)

Libby, Molly, Ally, Russ

When our kids were babies everything took serious planning. I couldn't go to the grocery store without a play by play stuffed in my pocket. It took 2 hours of packing up, just to leave the house. Even then shopping took an excessive amount of time as we cruised through the isles in our eye catching stroller. At the time, I just accepted the fact - this was MY life, and it would probably always be that way. I didn't know there was a light at the end of that tunnel.

Over the years I've learned to be patient, in a way I never expected possible. I learned how a positive attitude can take you far and that being "normal" is in the eye of the beholder. I've learned that being a mother doesn't mean I've lost myself or my independence- it just means I need to be more creative. I've learned we are ALL stronger than we give ourselves credit for. Nothing is impossible.

Now that our kids are 4, so much has changed. We ditched the stroller last year when they learned to hold hands and LISTEN well. They have become independent little boogers and life is very different. Grocery trips no longer take half the day. They can dress themselves, feed themselves, reason, and wipe their own booties. They can tell me what they need and if they don't feel well. They play together and look after one and other. They even understand the importance of "stranger danger," and THAT gives us a FREEDOM we never had before. Spontaneity is back in my vocabulary.

We can do fun things on the spur of the moment, things, the logistics of, STRESSED ME OUT about in the past. Like, hit the movies, just the 5 of us. Stop in for a treat at Jamba Juice. Run into the pharmacy. SWIM (without hauling 8TONS of floatation devices)!! Meet my mom for lunch (in a restaurant) and practice our manners. Use a public restroom-without climbing the walls and making my inner germaphobe FREAK OUT! You name it, the list goes on and on. It may seem simple/trite to most.. but to me... it's like the heavens have opened up and a beam of light has illuminated our little world. Life is SO DIFFERENT, in ways I didn't even realize were possible.

So, what's the point of this rambling little post?

Just when you think you've got it all figured out, that you've accepted things that are out of your control, life can still surprise you. The kids and I are having the best summer we've ever had. I'm enjoying motherhood NOW more than ever before. We've passed through the light and I love the FREEEEEEEEDOM on the other side. I feel like, for the fist time in 4 years, I can breathe. I KNOW there will be many challenges along the way. Don't even mention the teen years.. HOLY LORD! But right now, I'm enjoying being out of the baby stage and LOVING THIS MOMENT.

Just stopping in for some ice cream...

Russell Man

Ally Boo Boo

Miss Molly

Little Libs

I hope your all having a great week!

Daddy & The Sacramento Gold!

Thank you for all your loving comments on my last post. They made me smile ear to ear and meant the world to me and my family. You are awesome.

So, it's time for a happy note here in Quadville, and I have just the post!

Most people don't know that Conor has been playing for our semi-pro soccer team, Sacramento Gold, all season. It's been great release for him and fun for us. Last week the kids and I met up with some of our favorite people to cheer Daddy on.

The kids have very different levels of interest when it come to watching Daddy play...

Russ- Is happy as long as I provide a constant source of food and let him play on the bleachers.

"So, mom what else you got to munch on in that bag?"

Libs & Molly- Like two peas in a pod with US weekly and lip gloss keeping them busy.

"What soccer game?...."

"Omigosh.. can YOU believe she wore THOSE shoes? GASP!"

Ally- Gets super mad when people heckle or try to hurt one of our players!

"Did you see that bogus call?"

"I'm off to have a few choice words with the ref."

Games are always more fun with lots of company. The kids and I loved having Katie, Ryan, Mary, and Sue last week. The more the merrier as far as we're concerned!

Russ and Mommy

Katie, Ryan, the kiddos, and In 'N Out burger!

Miss Molly

The whole gang!

Poor Mary has been riding a scooter (broken foot) for months now. It provided some great half time entertainment for the little peeps.

How many 4 year olds can you fit on a scooter? Too many!

Mary and Sue

Katie and Me!

Daddy making a save!

- I was SO proud that I caught this shot!

The kids WATCHING daddy!

Goof balls

- providing entertainment for the crowd.

"What's that I hear, Daddy won?! Saaaweet!

Does that mean we get to go out for ice cream?"

I wanted a family photo- the kids were FAR too busy!

-Conor, Me, & our distracted children

Running with Daddy and burning some energy!

This coming Sunday is the Championship game!

Goooooooooo Sac Gold!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Never REALLY Gone...

I year ago today, our Nani Lou Ann passed away. As I type those words my eyes STILL flood with tears and I'm sure that will never change.

Most of the time I try not to think about how much I miss her, it hurts too bad. Instead, the kids and I do silly things. We pick the yellow roses (her favorite) from our yard. We draw her pictures, do cartwheels (her speciality), and wear lots and lots of yellow. Our blog is even her favorite shade of sunshine! ;)

Lou Ann Deterding

February 12th 1932 - July 13th 2009

When I'm having a bad day. I find myself talking to her, asking for guidance.. sure, I may look like I'm talking to myself, but in my heart I feel her listening. Sometimes I even smell her. She loved to keep cloves in her pockets and JOY was her favorite perfume... an unmistakable combination.

Countless moments throughout the day I think of her. Sometimes it makes me smile ear to ear and other times it makes me fight back tears.

My favorite time of the day is when the kids are saying their prayers. Without fail, EVERY SINGLE night, at least one of them (usually Ally), will pray for "Nani Lou Ann- that she comes down from HEAVEN and gives me a hug." I always follow that with, "Me too honey, me too..."

"Now I lay me down to sleep..."

She may be gone but she will NEVER be forgotten. She lives on in all of us. In fact, Ally looks so much like her that I often find myself staring-such a beautiful reminder. Nani would have loved that.

So, today I sit here, my hair still dark (the way SHE liked it), my heart still heavy, and I realize, I'm still grieving. I don't think we ever truly stop. Today I'm remembering all the happy times and beautiful moments we shared. Today I'm finding peace in her absence and gratitude for the many wonderful years I was privileged to be her grandaughter. Today I'm grateful that she knew my children and that they knew her. Today I miss her more than ever. Today, I know I am not alone. Our HUGE, wonderful family, is missing it's heart. Heaven is one lucky place.

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7 Years Of Fireworks!

I know I promised a post about all the fun things the kids did while I was away... but, I thought I'd take a little detour since this weekend is fresh in my mind! I promise I'll go back in my next post.

We had a lot to celebrate this weekend! The 4th of July is always a favorite holiday around here AND the 5th is our anniversary! It was a very special weekend.

On the 4th, Conor was out of town most of the day. So, the kids and I headed to the Carmichael parade where we celebrated with our awesome family and friends. Aunt Paula saved us a perfect spot in the shade and we settled in for the show. The kids got REALLY into it this year. So cute!

Lots of fun parade pics with family and friends!

Barb, Mel, Nani Donsie, Aunt Paula, Karen, Tess, Rich, Carrie and Mary

Feeling the pride.. red, white, and blue!

Fun with my Aunts (moms sisters)!

(bottom left)

Aunt Peggy and Me

(bottom right)

Aunt Paula and Aunt Peg

Four little stinkers!!

from top left/clockwise

Molly, Libby, Russ, and Ally

Libs was SO EXCITED when the monkey rolled by in the truck!

"Look it's Earl!!!!!"

- Libs, Aunt Peg, Earl, and giant Earl

Sweet Stinkers!

(from top left/clockwise)

Russ, Molly, Libby, and Ally

Good Times

(top Left)

Auntie Katie and Ryan

(bottom Left)

Me and my mom

After the parade we picked up Conor and headed to Del Norte for more 4th fun! We swam, bbq'd, and met some great new friends. We couldn't have asked for more. Seriously, a great day. Thanks for having us Katie and Ryan!!

Del Norte

After swimming we hit up an amazing fireworks show and watched the kids run wild. When it was over we packed up and headed home, WAY past bedtime. They were so pooped out that they passed out in the car-minutes (if not seconds) after pulling away. In fact, they were out so cold, we put them to bed in their clothes... ha ha ha!! I think it was one of the best days of their entire lives! I can't believe I didn't take pictures at the fireworks!!!!! My bad!

Monday was spent as a family! It was exactly the way we both wanted to spend our 7th wedding anniversary. We hit the gym, worked in the yard, and cleaned the house. I know, not very exciting, but it worked for us! For dinner we went to our favorite KID FRIENDLY restaurant, Logan's Road House, sitting down at a romantic table for 6. Honestly, in it's own way, it was kinda romantic! ;)

The kids are REALLY into making goofy faces lately.

(clockwise from top left0

Ally, Libby, Molly, and Russ

The boys!

The girls!

- Our attempts at a group shot with mommy. Nice girls, nice.

The "stink face" picture cracks me up!

7 years and 4 happy/healthy four year olds... our life is pretty darn good! Happy Anniversary babe, you are the best father and husband in the world. I love you more than ever.

We hope you all had a safe and happy 4th and that your summer is off to a great start! It's MY favorite time of year!!

Austin, TX 2010

The quad mom trip this year was exactly what my soul needed. If I'm being perfectly honest... I was in a tough place before I left. I can't put my finger on it. I think it was a lot of things. My patience was thin and I was super down. I was being crazy grouchy with Conor, and I just couldn't wait for every day to end. Seriously, that is no way to live and no one wants to be around someone like that! Don't get me wrong, I love my kids and my life, and have nothing serious to complain about. I was just in a MAJOR.... funk.

When I boarded my plane last week I was ready to run, far, far, away. The entire way from Cali to TX I had crazy mixed emotions. I felt guilty for leaving the kids but knew they were in great hands with Conor, Papa Jon, and Grandma Deb. The other part of me couldn't wait to be with the girlfriends, ladies who I truly love with all my heart, and who truly love me, flaws and all.

Not one single day has gone by over the last year (since Quad Mommas '09) that we haven't talked, laughed, cried, and teased the each other like sisters. The bond we have is so special that I couldn't wait to wrap my arms around each and every one of them! I fell in love with them all in '09. By the time 2010 rolled around, I couldn't imagine life without them.

This years trip was in Austin, Tx and it was heaven. I started with my other family, the Stacee's. Me, Moni, and Sandra had a sleep over with Suz and the fun began. God love you, Joe! We even had a special visit from an AMAZING blog buddy, Elyse. She's such a great person and we all adore her.

Suz, Sandra, Elyse, Me, and Moni

A while later we hit the road for Austin... stopping a few thousand times along the way and getting a great tour of TX. Me, Suz, Moni, and Sandra, on a road trip = TROUBLE! The good kind. My stomach was aching by the time we arrived from laughing so hard.

We eventually made it to Lake Travis and the trip from HEAVEN began! I mean... we walked into the most incredible mansion filled with nothing but love and good times. Not to mention the A-MA-ZING pool! Talk about the perfect combination of relaxation and fun. It was EXACTLY what we all needed. No schedules, no responsibilities, just us.

I'm still laughing at this picture!

Our AWESOME 2010 shirts

by Casey- www.designedforbabies.com

We made every moment count, even having a bday party with "secret sisters." We hit the town, dined at a 5 star restaurant, and danced our behinds off. We watched a fellow mama rap like Snoop Dog, ate hot dogs (that may or may not have been made of meat), hung in the pool, and belted Disney tunes at the top of our lungs. Me, Suz, and Moni did makeovers and fashion consults. We talked for hours, laughed for days, played games, shopped, and even learned some cheer leading moves! It was the trip of a lifetime packed with unforgettable moments. I'm rarely short on words, but this vacation was so wonderful, I can't do it justice.

Romantic Italian dinner for our sweet 16!

Nimble mamas! ;)

Iguanas- MY FAV place in Austin, with my favorite girls!

When our time was up I refreshed and had a new lease on life. I was ready to get back to our life here in Sactown and left with a spring in my step. I'm still smiling ear to ear and came home a new person. I don't think I have been so relaxed since the days before children and I KNOW I'm a better wife and mother because of it.

While I was gone the kids were loved and kept busy by Grandma Deb and Papa Jon. Conor was out of town for work but made it home by Saturday and enjoyed the time with the kids and his parents (my next post!).

THANK YOU to ALL the WONDERFUL family and friends who made this trip possible. 67 kids were loved and cared for while we were away, incredible. I can't believe we have pulled this off 2 years in a row. Here's to many many more.

I am one seriously lucky wife and mom and can't even put into words how wonderful and supportive Conor has been about this relationship we women share. My family is my world but my friends keep me sane.

In case you don't already know my girls, I wanted to share a little bit about each of these special ladies. They are a HUGE part of my heart.

Amy Jo and Me

- AJ is one of the STRONGEST most AMAZING people I have ever met. A tiny little person, she is beautiful inside and out. She handles every curve ball with grace and a smile. I admire her more than words and love her with all my heart. Her strength is as contagious as her beautiful smile.

Sandra and Jenn

-Sandra D is the best friend a girl could have. She is the MOST selfless person I have ever known and is ALWAYS thinking up new ways to make us all smile. She loves her hubby and her 5 children with all that she is and still has room for every one else. I am so lucky to have our Southern Belle in my life. She lights up the darkest of days.. truly.

-JK, I fell in love with this girl when she carried her quads to like 85 weeks (kidding- but it was REALLY far). She is one seriously strong and determined woman with a heart of gold. We both have 3 girls and a boy, a connection that goes without saying. JK is also hysterically funny, real, honest, and kind. She is an absolutely beautiful person! I love her with all my heart and can't get her adorable giggle outta my head.

Charity and Beth

-Miss Charity is pure joy. Even when she is ticked at the world she does it with a smile on her face and a sweet tone in her voice. You can't help but fall in love with her in every single way. She is a kind and gentle soul. I could spend every hour of every day with Charity and never tire of her. NEVER! I love her and her 5 BEAUTIFUL children with all my heart and can always count on her, no matter what.

-Beth aka "Germie," "Bethie Boo," "DJ Jazzy Beth," etc. Beth is one of those people who NEVER ceases to surprise you. You NEVER want to see go. She is the life of the party and brilliant. Not only can she sing EVERY song EVER written (word for word), she does it with the most stunning voice. This girl has more talent in her pinkie than I have in my entire body. I love her with all my heart and count the days til our next adventure.

Heather and Misty

-Heather is beautiful, graceful, and genuinely sweet. She is super mellow and just goes with the flow. Though she prefers to sit back and observe, when she's tosses out one liners you can't help but stop and take note! She is HYSTERICAL, honest, loving, non judgmental, and kind. Now, to expand her beverage and food choices.. lol!! God love her and so do I, with all my heart!

-Misty is an old soul. The girl is spiritual, wise, and always ready to offer up a new prospective. She is so patient, kind, and the heart of our group. We also LOVE a lot of the same books and she's the first one I text when I find a series I like. I love that!!! Also, her girls are only a few months younger than my kiddos, making us the mommas with the oldest kids. I count on her often to tell me... "that is normal!" I love her with all my heart and thank the LORD we have each other.

Kelly and Kami

- Kelly is sweet, hard working, and incredibly deserving of this years vacation! It was fun to see her come out of her shell this year and let loose. She can hold her own with DJ Jazzy Beth and cut a rug with the best of them. She's also got and eye for a photo and took some amazing candid shots, beautiful. She isn't afraid to let me play dress up. I had a blast doing her hair and makeup this trip. I love her with all my heart.

-Kami is as easy going as they come. Her gorgeous features and knock out smile get me every time. She effortlessly lights up the room and your heart. She is sits back, takes it all in, and gives nothing but unconditional love. Also, her kiddos have THE COOLEST NAMES!!! I love her with all my heart and can't wait to spend time with her again asap!

Jenna and JK

- Jenna is a breath of fresh air. She has no idea how incredibly gorgeous she is. She's insanely easy going (accept when it comes to laundry) and will melt your heart with every phrase. She is too funny and says things that you'd expect to come out of an 90 year old woman.. like "good gravy." She's also a helluva cook and the last to leave a party. She's the kind of person you can't help but adore and I love her with all my heart.

Moni and Jac/Peas and Carrots

-Moni aka "Monster" is one of a kind. She the coolest chick around and the kind of friend who lasts a lifetime. She's witty, smart, funny, surprising, beautiful, talented, and smart as a whip. She also shares my love of makeup and makeovers! Being a nurse she's a natural care taker and loves to make other people feel good about themselves. I love that most about her. Well, that and her GIANT Broncos jug. I love her with all my heart!

-Jac is the hardest working mom I know. Not only does she work her tail off all day at work, but she can't wait to get home and love on her kids. She cherishes every moment with then and it melts my heart. She is the best wife, mother, and friend anyone could ask for. She wears her heart on her sleeve and would give you the shirt off her back if she thought it would make you smile. She inspires me to be better ever day and I love her with all my heart.

Mari Dawn

-Mar is incredibly wise and real. She'll tell ya how it is and how you can make it better. She lives in the moment and parents with an instinct that is so natural that SHE should write a book. She is creative, faithful and as loyal as they come. If your ever in the dark, Mari will guide you to the light. She is amazing in every single way and I love her with all my heart!

Our party planners!

-Casey, Moni, Sandra, and Mari

Casey and Me

-Casey, is the momma hen of the group. She is the reason we all get together each year and has mad organizational skills, as well as an obsession for spread sheets/lists. She also has an impressively looooow tolerance for caffeine, no joke. I've never seen anything like it and it made me love her that much more. She is loyal to the bone and the kind of friend who would NEVER give up on you, no matter what. Her heart is bigger than TX and she is the reason our trips are unforgettable. I love her with all my heart and count her as one of my best friends.

Our party bus!

Suz and Me

- I LOVE this picture, CLASSIC!

Our bathroom/Girl Central!

-I love playing up the girls eyes, they say it all!

Suz and Me

-Suz, last but not least, my heart and soul, Suz. She and I are as close and two people can be. We connect all the way to our bones and rarely take a breath without telling each other first. She keeps me honest and makes me a better person. I feel like I've know her my entire life and can't wait for the decades of memories we will make together. She completes me, plain and simple. I love her with all my heart and all my soul. She often says I am "just like Joe" and I think she's "just like Conor!" No wonder we get along so beautifully. Just call us... Ying and Yang.

After writing this post I'm all warm and fuzzy inside. I miss these girls so much, it hurts! It's like pieces of my heart are spread all over the country. How awesome is that?! I've said it a million times and I'll say it a million more.. I'm on lucky girl!

If I've learned anything this trip it this... it's okay to take care of YOU. We woman are always so worried about everyone else that we often forget to take care of ourselves. There is nothing like a little relaxing girl time to refresh and strengthen us all. Get out and enjoy each other ladies... life is too short not to! If you keep waiting for the right time, you'll be waiting forever. Make it happen, you won't regret it. ;)

Happy 4th of July Everyone! Have a FABULOUS time and be safe!

PS: If you want to read what the other ladies wrote, click on the names in the post below. I linked all the blogs in that post and love re living it through their eyes.