A Letter to Kalista

Dear Kalista,

I remember years ago I thought once school-age came around I would be less busy. Oh was I wrong! I have come to realize the older you and Sophia get, the busier my life becomes. The responsibilities start to pile up. Different responsibilities than the nurturing kind of taking care of young children. School work, volunteering, soccer, ballet, gymnastics, and swimming have made our family life a tad bit hectic. But the joy I see on your faces makes all the scheduling and chauffeuring worth it. I wouldn't change a thing.

A huge chapter of your life is beginning. You have been my buddy, my pal, my sidekick for so long and it is hard to imagine not having you by my side. In some ways, I am losing my best friend.

When your sister started her journey, I was okay because I still had you to keep me company. But now that it is your turn, well, I find myself at a loss. I truly wish I could turn back time. I have been telling Daddy that I didn't think you were ready, that we were making a mistake, that you are just too young. I guess the truth is, I am not ready to start turning the pages in your book.

Although I am sad as I write this, I am also excited to watch you discover your talents, your dreams, your life. A whole new world is waiting for you. 

Sweet, sweet Kalista . . .

Always remember how much I love you and how proud I am to be your mommy.

Jennifer Went Camping?

Lots of my friends, as well as David's, were shocked when we told them our family had a camping trip planned. Some friends said, "You mean glamping?" I clarified, "No, camping. Like as in a tent. Like no electricity. Like walk to the bathroom. Camping."

I should have taken more pics. But I kind of forgot about all the electronics (phone, camera, iPad, etc.). How nice it was to be away from all of those things that take up our precious time.

Welcome to my first camping trip:

Big Sur

Just nestled 4 hours north of SB was our home away from home for a few days. 

A little pitstop in Cayucos for some refueling.

Where there is a cookie store, there will be a Hall.

Thanks to Dani and Jen (my other seasoned camper friend) our meals were all planned out.

These gals were awesome with organizing! They split up a very well thought out list and 

we all showed up with the goods. Could this be any easier?

First night: Kebobs (chicken, mini potatoes, and grilled veggies)
My bad on lagging on the photos for night two. But trust me, it was fabulous!
Salmon on cedar planks, rice, and asparagus.
Third night was a restaurant night :)

Big Kid Josh showing the girls he could sand roll too.

I think he stopped 1/4 way down though...oh to be young again.

The river run was fun and COLD.

I can't imagine what it is like when the rains fill it up.

Kids being kids.
The best memory of all.

Dear Dani,

I am not sure if you stop by this blog, but thank you for THE BEST TIME. My TYPE A+++ personality that longs to be an A- at times thanks you too. This was a trip my kids will never forget and I can't wait to add to their memories. And a hundred thank you's to Josh for being our camping chef and fire chief. Next time I will be the fire starter! xoxo

Thursday Things

Well hello there! It's been awhile since I've posted to this label. But don't think it means I haven't fallen in love with a few things along my hiatus. Here are just a few:

I love my Initial Necklace

Looking forward to busting out these beauties!

The one and only Missoni for Converse

This will come in handy when traveling abroad!

Meet Jackery

The best cross body, shoulder or around the waist 

bag for those active vacations:

And the absolute best tee I stumbled

upon in Kitson:

Happy Birthday Sophia Grace

My dearest Sophia,

Holy cow! How could it be? You are 7 years old? There is just no way this has happened. And so quickly too.

Seven years ago you changed my life in a way no one could have ever prepared me for nor explained. Many. many moons ago I told myself there were 2 life changing experiences I did not want or need. The first...to get married. And the second? Well, my love, YOU are the second. How incredibly wrong I was. I am so thankful to have had the chance and courage to personally change my life's course. So in case you ever wonder...everything was planned. No mistakes. Not with your father. Not with you. Or your sister, in case you ever wonder about that too. hahahaha

Sophia, you are a beautiful young lady. Smart, loving, talented, and thoughtful are only a few wonderful traits you embrace. I admire your ability to like and love without regard. Your caring ways come so naturally. You never think twice when it comes to helping someone. 

Sophia, you are so driven and focused. And as you mature, I hope you will find and maintain the balance of it all without the self-induced pressure. 

As every year passes, I can't help but look forward to more of your future. So many exciting journeys await. And although the road may get bumpy at times, always remember life should not be so difficult. Believe in yourself and have faith. Everything will fall into place, as the way it should.

Happy Birthday Sophia. I love you.

~ Mommy