McMinns

hello...anyone there?

2011-06-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

So after dropping off the face of the earth (also known as El Paso, TX), I've decided to update my blog a little. I'd like to say I'm back...but it's more my desire to do anything except make dinner right now.

That said...let's begin!

Waaaaay back in March we took a trip to Arizona with my in laws, and it was a blast. The smell of oranges was in the air, the place we stayed in was amazing, and the company was the best. Not to mention shopping, Cheesecake Factory, two rounds of golf, and sushi.

Come May we had the most amazing (hopefully not a once in a lifetime) experience...a trip to Chicago without our children! Grandma Mc was a saint and came to play with the girls for an extra long weekend while Kev and I lived it up in the windy city. It was cold and rainy (both welcomed changes to the climate we are used to), and we got to go with some of our favorite people since the guys were all attending an ortho conference.

My favorite things: breakfast at Yolk, Chicago shopping, Gino's Pizza, breakfast at Yolk, all the glorious trees, sushi, dim sum, running in the rain, and breakfast at Yolk...again.

Some of the coolest ladies (moving our partay from Texas to Chicago!)

And of course my favorite guy...

The girls are of course older now and have somehow become partners in crime.

Ry also had her first dance recital. She was so cute and funny to watch. It's weird I have a kid that is old enough to be in a dance recital.

And lastly I have gained 10 lbs in the past 6 months. It is partly due to my indulgence of ice cream every night but mostly because I'm growing another person inside me and that tends to make you plumper. And in case you haven't heard...it's a boy!

Rylee's bday and dragon training!

2011-04-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

I have received e-mails from two grandpas, both requesting I update my sad looking blog. Here's a good place to start...Ry's 4th bday way back in February. Ry's favorite holiday (Valentines Day...aka Love Day) and her birthday are within a few days of each other, making it the best week of every year.

We did a combined party with Ry's best buddy Blake from Colorado who made the move to EP with us. So sparing Blake from having to have a princess party, we went with a theme from one of Ry's favorite movie, Dragon Training! Thank you TX! Where you can have a February bday outside! We trained our dragons, grilled hot dogs, and opened presents.

I had a brilliant idea to make 10 "hobby" dragons, once again way overestimating my sewing skills. These things took me forever to make. My first attempt Ry guessed was an alligator, and Kev just laughed at the sight of it (thanks for the constructive criticism). The second go they turned out better, but I'll admit I was a tad embarrassed to bust them out at the party. The kids liked them though and my shotty sewing held up until the end of the party at least!

Happy Bday Ry! I couldn't love you more.

Birthday morning. Where once again Ry was spoiled ROTTEN by all her grandmas and grandpas! Thanks!

Let the training (party) begin!

Birthday boy, girl, and little sister with their fierce (and somewhat goofy looking) dragons.

Games included racing dragons and collecting fish for them to eat (the dragons, not the kids).

Toothless the dragon cake by the birthday boys dad. I was VERY impressed.

My somewhat less impressive cookies. Viking helmets and fish...get it? You know, because vikings train dragons, and dragons eat fish. There was no way I was going to try to frost a dragon onto a cookie.

Grandpas, hope that is satisfactory!

another flood...of bigger proportions

2011-02-05T06:20:00.000-08:00

For the second time in one month our home has turned into an indoor pool. Last time it was contained to the tiled hallway...this time we weren't so lucky.

Let me begin with the previous day. It has been abnormally cold in EP, apparently the coldest temps in the city's history (so glad we could be a part of it..). So on Thurs when we woke up with the water frozen to our shower, it was disappointing. When I later noticed flooding in the back yard I was a little panicked, but we just went without water for a day, and fared pretty well. When the contractor and his crew fixed the pipe so we could once again have water to our house and broke the news there was leaking on the inside of the wall...I was getting frustrated but glad it was contained. Ok...here it gets good.

While the contractor was still her fixing the pipes, we decided to go grab a bite and perhaps play at the play area. But noticing it was lunch time we told the workers we would bring back some lunch for them. Fast forward to an hour later, we arrive home to see the workers had left already (a little happy, I could easily eat three more hamburgers).

Let me pause to mention some key characters in this story...my inlaws. Oh thank goodness for my inlaws.

Ok. When we walk inside our house we are greeted with a small river, which when followed eventually turns into a lake. Apparently another pipe had burst, which went unnoticed because we had no water the past day. After the workers fixed our outside pipes, they turned the water back on before they left. Only this busted pipe was leaking on the inside of our house, right by Rys room. The water had completely flooded Ry's room (where her carpet was floating), made its way down the hall (partially into Soph's room), through the hall between the kitchen and living room, and snaked around to the garage.

Where I was rooted to the floor, ready to burst into tears, my inlaws sprang into action. I know it probably isn't the best vacation for them...but I'm SO happy they were here. Four sets of hands made clean up way better.

This was rough of my emotions, but there were a few things to be grateful for. I'm glad we returned early to bring lunch back...another hour of this leaking would have been disastrous! Glad my inlaws were here otherwise Kev would have been at work and I would have been home alone, probably still staring at the water. Glad our house is mostly tiled, even though I curse it every week when I have to clean it.

To the left of the door and all the way down that hall is where the leak was coming from.

I snapped this pic within the first couple mins. of cleanup, and look how much water is already in the courtyard. Ushering the water out the front of the door went on for another 45 mins. Then another couple hours of sucking the water up with the shop vac in Ry's room. And we were only gone for less than a hour.

even in texas

2011-02-05T05:36:00.001-08:00

Even Texas is feeling the effects of the big storm system. The difference between EP (el paso) and the rest of the country is the city of EP is apparently not equipped to fall below 20 degrees. So the all time single digit record lows put the city in a frenzy. So what happens in EP when the temps dip into freezing and a few flurries dust the street....

City generators break down causing rolling black outs

Businesses close their doors (including the gym and chick-fil-a)

Schools are canceled

Streets and interstates are closed

Just about everyone's pipes burst guaranteeing employment for every plumber in EP (post to come)

Ry misses the snow, so when she ran into our room around 4:30am exclaiming "there's snow out my window!" I think she was pretty thrilled. We broke out the snow clothes, and I watched the excitement from inside my toasty house.

Remember this Denver post? Funny how those snow days in Denver cause less damage than this "snow day" in EP....

On a side not...yes Ry is still wearing the same snow clothes from 2009.

last christmas post...promise

2011-01-23T20:38:00.000-08:00

This is terribly past due. It's an important time of the year though so it's going in the blog!

So we we had a temporary case of insanity this year and decided the 17 hour drive to Idaho was a good idea. It actually wasn't too bad thanks to splitting it between two days and listening to The Hunger Games and Mocking Jay. A good time was had once we were there, and we tried to enjoy the snow before heading back to the barren dessert.

christmas morning at Gma and Gpa Mcs

Funny thing-I can count the number of times Ry has woken up after 7am on one hand, one of those times was Christmas morning, and all her cousins were patiently waiting to open presents. So a first in Ry's life, being woken up in the morning (which doesn't quite make up for the thousand times she has done it to us).

All my kiddos and their stockings. Kevin is included in that, I have this fear that now that he's married Christmas morning will be lame.

Love that she is overjoyed to get a pair of wings...which is good because that's about all she got from us. Lame Christmas morning fear is legit...I'm the worst!

christmas day at Gma Lou's

I LOVE this pic. This is my little bro...uncle mike. Ry insisted we get him a present, and I convinced her he would love this plaid shirt (that was 75% off).

Thank goodness for Gmas and Gpas, my kids had a great Christmas. Ry got a princess dress from my dad and his wife, and transforms into Princess Ryeena every morning right around 5am.

Sledding. Ry loved, Soph froze.

She was much happier to be back in our toasty warm car.

Spent our last couple days in Jackson Hole, WY with Kev's brother (at his cabin) and their friends. Always fun, thanks for taking us Jeff and Maja.

My niece came along and watched Sophie one day so we could take Ry skiing. The best part was after we sent Ry home with my sis-in-law and Kev and I enjoyed some runs alone.

Jackson Hole...fabulous, not so great was the three hrs. it added onto our already 17 hr. ride home.

it's christmas. all over. again.

2011-01-16T18:33:00.000-08:00

Christmas was a CRAZY time for us here in El Paso. It was so nice to have Christmas decorations that filled our empty house. We also enjoyed all those fun Christmas activities (many of which revolve around baked goods), getting to go to Idaho to visit our families, and telling the story of Jesus' birth every FHE for a month straight.

We did miss delivering and receiving all those Christmas goodies on our doorstep (we miss you Denver people).

Something new this Christmas was Kev's company's formal Christmas party. 1. We get to get all gussied up. 2. We get a night of eating and dancing without the kiddos. 3. Some of our closest friends work for the same company so we got to bust a move with these cool people.

Don't let this pic. fool you....I have MAD moves on the dance floor (even though Kev compared me to Elaine Benes from Seinfeld in this pic...rude).

Also, my favorite part of El Paso are these women. They also came from Colorado and they are the best. They have saved me from many days of crying over loneliness.

This was our first year of making "ginger bread/graham cracker" houses (actually a house). We gave it our best, but it was pretty sad looking. Got to love kids though, they thought we were the coolest parents...something about all the candy you could eat.

The finished product (complete with a flower garden).

Kev was unimpressed with my last minute addition (a bridge).

The next day when it was suspiciously quite, I came out to the kitchen to find Ry had managed to move the house from the counter to the table...and proceeded to make a meal of it.

And let's not forget Christmas cookies. We had every intention of delivering these to our neighbors, but I wanted Kev to go with me (due to a slight language barrier), and we just never had a night that worked...so we downed all these little girls and boys ourselves.

flashback

2011-01-15T19:34:00.000-08:00

Got all my pics. back and am ready to post. So this is a flashback, not to the 80s or anything cool, but to our week in limbo during our move. We had a week to kill before we could move into our house so we took our time touring New Mexico and all its glory.

First stop-Taos, NM.

Enjoyed Swimming, celebrating my birthday in the hotel with cupcakes and Ben and Jerrys. We even found some snow and skied on it. Well, Kev and Ry skied while Soph and I hung out in the lodge.

Also found this little Native American restaurant and had ourselves some fry bread with choke cherry sauce...AMAZING!

So cute. So tired.

Second stop-Santa Fe, NM

Saw Tangled, toured down town Santa Fe, and checked out some cool Mexican furniture stores.

Pretty cool, but next time we move I vote we kill time at Disneyland!

Finally we have arrived (and yes...Ry is wearing moon boots).

the perfect storm

2011-01-05T15:19:00.000-08:00

So my ambitions of blogging all our happenings now that we have the internet have been foiled because our pics. somehow were transferred to my mother in laws comp...and what's a blog without pics? Actually, this post is picture less...but do read.

This is a short comedy from the lives of Kev and Stef McMinn, who due to a flu ridden kid and a malfunctioning washing machine, had one crazy night. Let's preface the story by saying our entire day was spent in the car on our 20 hr. drive from Jackson Hole to El Paso.

Ok...dim the lights.

It began at 3 a.m. when Ry walked into our room claiming her stomach hurt, and although all past experiences have taught us to run her to the toilet IMMEDIATELY, we laid their daze just trying to console her. Any parent knows what happened next...Kev's side of the bed was doused with puke. Any remnant of sleep was quickly gone and we rushed into action. Me cleaning up Ry, and Kev tearing off the bedding. Fast forward to the bedding in the washer, Ry sleeping on our floor with a big bowl by her side. Right as we were settling down I heard a noise from the laundry room that didn't sound quite right and begged Kev to check it out. Kev obliges and next thing I hear is "ohhh", so I jump out of bed and proceed to sprint down the hall.

I need to pause to describe the layout of our home. Our entire house is tile except for the bedrooms. Our laundry room is just a couple feet straight down the hall from our room.

And begin scene. I take off full speed to the hall, and the moment I set foot on the tile my feet fly out from under me, I enter the air, and crash onto my back smacking my head on the tile. And there I stayed for the next minute pretty wet and hurting, until I could make it into the fetal position....then cue puking (not me, but Ry). Do you comfort your sick child or try to prevent the flowing water from entering your carpeted room? I did the latter, but THEN I attended to Ry.

The rest was pretty uneventful, the washer hose had come out from the wall, lots of towels, big headache, but a little giggling between Kev and I. At 4:30 as we were crawling back into bed, Sophie could be heard on the monitor just waking up. Kev called it the perfect storm.

Two things I was grateful for that night:

1. That Ry didn't get sick on MY side of the bed (sorry Kev).

2. That we were forced to run the laundry that night, instead of the next day when I would have been home all alone. I would have probably admitted defeat... immobile and crying.

we're baaaack

2010-12-27T06:24:00.000-08:00

So this past month we have started earning a living for the first time, moved south to the border, logged over 27 hrs. in the car (with our 2 kiddos), and a few other things here and there....all without the internet! So I'm starting from the beginning folks, with one of the most important days of the year.

MY BIRTHDAY!

Birthday happened to be moving day so the house was empty and the presents were put in grocery sacks, but Kev was spot on with the gifts.

The book was from my in-laws, and the power sander and staple gun from my smart hubby (aren't they lovely?). The tools have already been put to good use.

Since we were moving Thanksgiving week I was excused from making the big dinner. Instead we went to Maggianos (an Italian restaurant) with Kev's parents, and it was AMAZING! Even more amazing...my kids sat through the 3 hr. meal and I was able to enjoy every bit of it.

The next day we left Colorado to move to our new home in Texas. It was bittersweet to leave a place that we loved so much, but it helped that Kev had just graduated and would be working for the first time in our 6 year marriage.

After all those hikes and camp outs, I still always considered myself more of a city girl who had married a mountain man. But it was painful leaving those beautiful mountains behind.

Goodbye amazing weather, goodbye green grass and all other forms of plant life, goodbye beautiful wild flowers and amazing hikes, goodbye pretty streams and mountain lakes, of course goodbye good friends (and goodbye skiing, you will be missed by Kev).

babies

2010-11-27T06:20:00.000-08:00

I had to share these gems with everyone. It's too precious to keep to myself.

This past Thursday three precious babies joined my Chow side of the fam. My brother and his wife had a new baby girl, Chloe, AND my dad and his wife had twins, Lila and Ethan! I think it's incredible and wish I could hold each one of them.

Congratulations fam! I love you all!

CHLOE

ETHAN and LILA

Class of 2010

2010-11-24T07:09:00.001-08:00

Kev's graduation was last night. This has been a long time coming (10 years and 3 months to be exact), and it feels SOOOO good to be done. Congratulations Dr. McMinn, I'm so proud of you, so much that I'm even laying off the fake Dr. jokes. You did it!

The newest crop of University of Colorado Orthodontists.

And the supporting cast, I think there were 10 babies born during the Ortho residency to these awesome women (yes I'm awesome)!

GRADUATION PARTAY!!!

The El Paso, TX crew. All five families will keep the partying going on down south.

Pre Graduation pics. This was a big night, I even busted out the makeup. Pretty sad when your nearly 4 year old keeps saying "mom, you look different", and "what's that green color on top of your eyes?". Surely I have worn make up in the past 4 yrs.

So giddy to be done. It's not very often you graduate from student life and start your first real job at 31.

I'm still giddy.

Love you Kev

rock star

2010-11-12T20:31:00.000-08:00

I am not a hair mom. I don't have the slightest clue how to do my own hair, let alone my girl's. Almost every time we are out in public I have a moment where I look at Ry and Sophie's hair and think, I am officially one of those moms. The one with the kids that have bed hair at noon and breakfast crusted onto their faces. Couple Sundays ago Sophie woke up with some rock star hair and instead of a lame attempt at trying to tame it, we went with it...and it was actually an improvement from her normal do.

At least it's better than what her sister went through at that age (who does that to their kid?).

i do declare...

2010-11-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

there has been a murder

Our awesome friends the McDonoughs hosted a murder mystery dinner.

Let me set the stage before we introduce the suspects.

It's 1940 on a train to Paris.

We have the ladies
The journalist, socialite, dress designer, princess

and the gents.
la duke, gangsta, business man, pilot

Getting in character. I was sold on the shoulder pads of that dress...they were awesome!

We enjoyed an elegant dinner and there was a lot of giggling.

Such a fun night, I was awful at playing my part which is too bad because guess who done it!?

Yours truly.

the princess and chinese girl

2010-10-31T13:56:00.000-07:00

Introducing the princess and the Chinese girl (for lack of a better name)....

When grandma asked Ry in the store, "do you want to be a princess for Halloween?" I knew she had sealed the deal. Which actually worked out great because g'ma bought her the princess dress (her only hope of having a cool costume). Sophie's costume was an outfit we picked up during a trip to Hong Kong.

Thank goodness for 'Trunk or Treats', if it wasn't for them Ry would have no idea people passed out candy on Halloween.

Sophie had a blast walking around and shoving candy into her bag, which I am currently using as my own stash. Mama has a sweet tooth. Ry loved it and is excited to eat all the skittles, starburst, and the other pure sugar candies...and is giving the yucky chocolate candy bars to dad.

Hope you all have secret candy stashes too.

cleaning up shop

2010-10-30T08:18:00.001-07:00

I know some of you ladies out there have WAY more jeans than this. This is 8 years worth...not bad.

3 weeks + 3 days

The count down is on until graduation!

I'm in the process of packing and purging.

So long Luckys from high school with the slits in the hem (do you know the ones?).

Goodbye freshman 15 jeans...I vow you will never fit again.

And lots of other junk from around the house. Feels good to minimize my life.

birthday do over

2010-10-23T12:50:00.000-07:00

Kev's b'day came and went the beginning of October without any singing, cake, or presents.

BUT, I did send him to school with cupcakes...like any good mom (I mean wife) would do.

AND, he did go on a man trip to New Orleans with all his classmates for a conference.

so don't feel too bad for the guy.

The next weekend I declared a birthday do over and redeemed myself a little bit.

I surprised him with a date (a round of golf).

We went out to dinner with the kiddos (secretly wishing we were still on a date).

Then we came home to cake and presents!

Sophie eating her cake...

and Ry's cake

still not satisfied, she moved on to the rest of the cake. You can see the damage she caused.

Dad showing off his loot (helmet and bike jersey).

The cake was one big experiment.

Started off with Kev's favorite chocolate chocolate chip zucchini cake.

Substituted the egg with flax and water (for Ry).

Substituted most of the sugar with honey.

Substituted most the flour with wheat flour.

Substituted the oil with apple sauce.

And used the dairy/egg free chocolate chips (for Ry...which are fantastic).

I also added almond butter to the frosting (which made the consistency totally weird).

And still used 10 lbs. of sugar for the frosting.

It was tasty and I felt a tad better as I devoured half the cake.

reupholstered

2010-10-17T18:42:00.001-07:00

I had one of those moments a few weeks ago when I was really craving a project.

(those cravings are few and far between, but strong and must be satisfied).

So I got it in my little brain to try to reupholster a chair.

It requires hardly any sewing (and no patterns) so it seemed right up my alley.

Plus I have mad skills with a staple and glue gun.

So anyhow...after finding a $10 chair, and pulling out a bazillion staples (and punching myself in the sternum after one particularly stubborn staple) here is the result.
The before is on the left. I'm still a little sad I painted over the pretty wood. Overall I'm pretty pleased with the result although it is far from professional quality and I had some major issues with puckering material (don't look too closely at the pic).

another angle

And of course my handy dandy helper. I was so determined to finish this all on my own but I needed a staple gun with a little more mmph (hint hint...upcoming birthday). And let's face it...I also need a little more patience and a whole lot bigger attention span.

Thanks for your help Kev. I know old used furniture is starting to grow on you...no matter what you say.

May I add I've browsed the Craig's list for El Paso and it is pathetic so I'm planning ahead for any future whims of projects I may want to do. I am currently hoarding used furniture in my garage much to Kev's dismay.

love us some visitors

2010-10-12T21:47:00.000-07:00

We had some visitors this past week.

Grandpa & Grandma Mc and Grandma Lou came to hang out.

My girls are so lucky to get so much love and attention.

First up, Grandpa and Grandma Mc.

Some snuggle time during General Conference. I actually got to hear the speakers. So nice the sessions and naps coincided.

An Autumn drive and picnic (and hanging around for a couple hours to kill time since they closed the road right after we arrived). Thanks to Grandpa Mc for "walking" Ry around the parking lot.

Next up...Grandma Lou's visit

I somehow ended up with zero pictures of this special lady.

We did however do a photo shoot of the girls in their new Dora jammies from g'ma.

Ry is Dora's biggest fan. She can use the Spanish she has learned from Dora in El Paso.

Went to a Pumpkin Fest, lured there by the promise of a "pumpkin patch". The real deal...a bunch of pre picked pumpkins scattered on the ground, a pumpkin launcher that mislaunched and could have taken someone out, and three flat tires on my double jogger from those stupid goat heads (thorn...not actual goat head). But there WAS delicious kettle corn ...so a good outing.

Thanks for coming. Please come again.

it's official

2010-10-01T13:44:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago Kev and I went to an interview out of state (location disclosed later for dramatic effect). We left our kids behind with some of our favorite friends, the McDonoughs (thank you, thank you, thank you). Traveling without kids in one word is DELIGHTFUL! Kev and I even held hands through the airport.

So...it's official. The McMinns will be moving to El Paso, TX come November. Shocked? I was too, but I'm excited and more importantly confident in our decision.

We will be sad to say goodbye to Colorado, which can only be described as being THE perfect state for us. But I will not judge you El Paso by your close proximity to the most dangerous city or your lack of snow and grass. Looking forward to our next adventure.

Berry Patch Farms

2010-09-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

There is something truly satisfying about picking fresh fruits (or veggies) and eating them...right there on the spot. The girls and I met up with some friends and went a picking (strawberries and raspberries).

This place was really cute, where else can you get in line for strawberry rides?

Tractor ride. Ry and her good buddies, Ethan and Blake.

Time for picking! Picking berries with Sophie on the loose was a little rough. I think the girl ate a whole strawberry plant. She does not care if a berry is red or white (or mushy brown), or if the stem and leaves are still attached...it all goes in the mouth. She was pretty excited for the strawberry free for all.

picking, picking, and more picking.

I could sit on a porch in rocking chairs eating our spoils all day.

Unfortunately we downed our berries by lunch time and Kev got to hear how delicious they were, but did not get to taste any. So we took him with us the next time we went.

So good. Too bad they are already about gone.

Taste of Colorado

2010-09-18T13:50:00.001-07:00

I knew this evening would be fun:

1. we were meeting some of our favorite people (from Dental School), the Reids

2. the night was all about food and lots of it

Now if I hadn't wolfed down the delicious beignets, gyro, pierogies, and funnel cake I might have had time to take pics. of the goods.

There was a salsa band, which Ry and Dillon were really feeling because they were shaking their bootays.

One of the people I still to this day miss from our days in the Burgh.

Carni rides. Wonder how many people get hurt on these?

Ry thought they were a little too scary, which was fine with me because that meant we had enough tickets for a funnel cake instead.

Labor Day

2010-09-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

This Labor Day weekend we found ourselves on the beautiful beaches of North Carolina. Warm ocean water, good friends, hours of card games, chasing crabs during dark, boarding, Mike's Farm all you can eat home cooking, a beautiful house right on the beach...

ok, not really.

That was our Labor Day tradition during dental school (3 yrs. in a row), and one of the many things I miss about living in the East.

Back to the present. This Labor Day guess where we went...any guesses?? The mountains (surprise!). Sarcasm aside. We went camping and took a guest. Grandma came to town which made Ry love camping even more.

It was chilly at night but we all managed to stay bundled and warm. We also went on an unplanned 3.5 hr. hike basically sans water, food, and Ry's carrier. The little water we had lasted the first hour, which is about how long we expected to go. By the end I felt a bit delirious, and Ry cried that night because her "legs really hurt".

It was fun, and of course the food was delicious as always. The next time we vacate the city though please let there be an ocean (and all you can eat home made macaroni..eh Pittsburghers?).

Look at this mug. I tried to keep her clean for about a min. and then let nature take its course.

mmmm.good.

2010-09-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Stefanie and I am an ice cream addict.

It is a serious weakness which I battle with every day. Sometimes I make it to the evening without giving in (when we are out of the stuff), but most the time I cave in and indulge in a few spoon fulls during the girls' nap time (and then a full bowl after their bedtime).

This summer I took my addiction to the next level...home made ice cream.

Here are a few of the flavors we tried.

First up...chocolate almond ice cream (delicious)

paired with apple crisp (I am actually a sweets addict)

next up...strawberry cheesecake ice cream (delightful)

and last my all time favorite...drum roll please.
candied pecans +home made ice cream=heaven (in the form of buttered pecan ice cream)

The only thing that would make this addiction sweeter is if I could share it with this cutie, but sorbet will have to do for this girl.

Notice the rosie glow? Ry decided to get into grandma's make up...looks like she learned her make up applying skills from her mama.

Vacationing in Poky

2010-09-08T21:27:00.000-07:00

We took our traditional trip to Poky during Kev's school break (our very last school break...woot woot). The girls LOVED seeing Grandma, and we crammed in some fun.

Grandma Lou did her thing and made the girls adorable matching dresses. I wish I could have inherited the sewing gene.

Celebrated Sophie's birthday. I had dreams of a beautiful party spread, but I lacked the motivation and energy to tackle it. Instead my mom made the cake and birthday dinner...yeah for moms.

Hiking with cousins

...and boating

Happened to be in town while Extreme Home Makeover was doing an episode. I ran into/stalked my favorite bachelorette (and new best friend) of all time...Jillian! She'll remember me as the one with the kid who was picking her nose...nice.

Fit in a round of golf (also a tradition...cramming in a years worth of dates since Grandma offers to babysit).

golfing partners

Good times.

McMinn Reunion 2010

2010-09-05T13:37:00.001-07:00

-August 2010-

Our trip to Idaho just happened to coincide with a reunion with all of Kev's siblings. We're so thankful we got to spend time with the McMinns (and Campbells) on this trip, and thanks to Janelle and Rob for planning!

McMinn Reunion Day 1

Pizza at the park and an extra large slip and slide was the highlight of the day for the kids (and also Rob and Kevin...who I think enjoyed it more). Ry was not a big fan, one time down was good for her. After that she stayed at the top to cheer for the other kids willing to brave the extreme slide.

In the evening we roasted marshmallows, ate smores (mmm...smores), and enjoyed a couple games of Mafia.

Seriously, Kev was on the verge of shoving the little ones out of the way so he could have his turn.

We are missing a few but to date there are 20 McMinn grand kids (soon to be 21 this month).

Gorgeous nieces

McMinn Reunion Day 2

The day began with a tasty waffle breakfast for the moms and kiddos, while the dads enjoyed 18 holes of golf. After the 5 hr. golf game we all met up for a delicious BBQ (once again I'm finding food to be the highlight of my post).

Next it was off to Uncle Jeff's office for some orthodontic work for two of the nephews (Ry has sworn off braces after seeing the pain it caused), an unconventional activity for a reunion.

We finished the reunion with some mini golf, which I am apparently as awful at as I am at regular golf.

Good looking group of kids

We missed you Grandpa and Grandma Mc! But I'm so thankful you are setting an example of service as missionaries to my kids.

Happy Birthday Sophie!

2010-08-23T13:32:00.001-07:00

My baby is 1!

And I know it sounds cliche but I can't imagine our family without her.

Still convinced her favorite person is Ry, although the teasing is becoming more frequent.

Ry can get those good belly laughs out of her.

She can also get her to scream whenever she takes her toys, shuts her in a room, or cuddles with mom.

I really hope you two will be best friends (any suggestions?).

She struggles at nap time, climbs on everything, is SO loud...which is very different from Ry.

I am EXHAUSTED after 3 hrs. of church with her, where I am her jungle gym.

When I shush her in church she looks me square in the eyes and lets out a deliberate scream.

She is so close to walking everywhere.

Says the cutest high pitched "hi".

She pants like a dog, smacks her lips when she wants a kiss, and loves to dance by swinging her right arm back and forth.

Happy birthday Sopha!

Splash

2010-08-20T06:25:00.001-07:00

Love the splash parks here.

And the blue skies.

oh...and these cute faces.

Sophie's many modes of transportation.

This is later in the day when I was getting pelted by the hail while moving our tomato plants. The weather was torrential enough to warrant us picking Kev up from school, which is saying something, I think that's happened maybe 5 times while we've been here (die hard b iker).

another hike. another mtn.

2010-08-12T22:04:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday I had nothing planned so Kev's default weekend activity is the family driving to the mountains and doing a 4 hr. hike. I was not feeling it at first...but it turned out quite pleasant.

This was our destination which was pretty gruelling to get to. I felt like I was climbing stairs for an hour straight.

Kev's ulterior motive for our family hike.

Kev doubles as a pack mule. He has to be packing an extra 50 lbs.

One little mishap. Ry took an accidental dive into the lake. No extra clothes, but she wore my jacket on top and kev's jacket for pants, and we were then left to walk down the mountain in the rain.

One of these days I hope to have pictures of us frolicking on the beach. I love the mountains but I would not be opposed to a nice beach get away.

Berry Breakfast

2010-08-08T14:07:00.000-07:00

So many reasons to love summer, one of them being fresh yummy berries. Sophie's favorite breakfast is all you can eat blackberries, blueberries, or strawberries. Day 1 of berry fest was messy, day 2 we lost the shirt.

ghost town

2010-08-01T14:42:00.000-07:00

Saturday we headed to the mountains for some hiking, which is how we spend a lot of our weekends. This however was the first time we went to a ghost town. It was A.MAZING. The ghost town was pretty cool, but the beautiful mountains and wildflowers were spectacular.

Glad we have friends who love to escape the city too. McDonoughs are always up for a good adventure.

I want a yard full of wildflowers...but not of the dandelion variety.

It's best not to tell Ry to smile for pics. You end up with either monkey face (as seen below) or squinty eyes (as seen above).

Sophie and her best friend Belle. They both have great style (and know how to rock a yellow sweat suit).

Plumb tuckered out on the way down.

We balanced our day with mother nature with a nice dose of outlet shopping at the end...a perfect day.

Morning Ritual

2010-07-30T13:00:00.001-07:00

Here is yet another post about mornings in the McMinn home. One of my favorite parts of the day is what happens after my crazy kids and Kev wake up at the crack of dawn. Sitting down and enjoying a delicious breakfast of cold cereals together. I love starting everyday off together (minus months 1-6 of Sophie's life when I was sleep deprived and refused to get out of bed until absolutely necessary).

But that's not all.

Kev's departure to school is always a big production.

It begins with hugs and kisses. Even Sophie has picked up on blowing kisses to dad as soon as he puts his messenger bag on. The farewell is then drawn out to the porch where Ry watches dad from the balcony and yells "I love you, have a good day" from the top of her lungs until Kev disappears into horizon...

Then all the lovey sweet sentiments are over and I battle with Ry for the next 2 hrs. to clean her room.

Of course there are those mornings when the girls are already falling apart that Kev just leaves to the sound of crying, and I think to myself...please, don't leave me (or just take me with you).

5 in the a.m.

2010-07-25T13:51:00.001-07:00

So what is going on in your house at 5 in the morning? Hopefully sleeping. In our house I am the only one who does not believe 5a.m. is the proper time to wake up in the morning. At 5 we have a dad that is on the computer because of his inability to sleep to a decent hour, a baby sister waking up (but who is being trained to go back to sleep after a nice tall glass of formula), and a big sister who takes full advantage of her early morning alone time to do the things I would normally put a stop to.

The upside to an early morning...the three hours of MY alone time during the day when the kiddos are napping.

Here is what Ry was up to on Saturday morning. I'm working on channeling this energy into actual cleaning instead of pretend cleaning which ironically only makes the house dirtier (exhibit a: the pile of dishes by the sink Ry pulled out of the dishwasher and drawers. exhibit b: the little flood on the counter top.).

In case you're wondering...

2010-07-16T15:03:00.000-07:00

Lately I have heard from several people how blogs always make people's lives look pretty spectacular, and it can be a tad depressing. So here is a glimpse of the other 90% (ok..maybe 50%) of my life that I omit from my blog.

I never knew I needed anger management until I had a two year old.

4 months until graduation and still no job...but let the student loan repayment begin!

It's hard to imagine all those pics. of that cute smiley face of Ry yelling "don't talk to me!", and "no, I won't do that!", but I hear that about every hour (except during naps).

A dirty house makes me so stressed and grumpy. You would think that would result in a clean house, but instead there's lots of stress and grumpiness.

Every day I come up with a new parenting plan to teach Ry to listen and not be so defiant, and everyday I fail.

Most days I think if my kids didn't wake up at 6 I would stay in bed until 10 and watch all the morning news shows and Rachael Ray.

If Ry doesn't have a melt down at least once in public that day then we probably never left our house.

There would be more but I hear Sophie splashing in the toilet (how do you teach your 3 yr. old to put the seat down and shut the door?).

The point. I don't take pics. of all that stuff, I don't really want to record and remember it because it will just repeat itself the next day. But I do not have it all together and luckily usually only Kev is privy to that. I hope that made someone feel better out there.

After I thought of doing this post, I literally had to wait 10 secs. until I snapped a pic. of this meltdown.

climber

2010-07-14T17:50:00.000-07:00

So Sophie has been sneaking up the stairs to our bedroom (and her bedroom which is still in our closet...so sad). Under my vigilant parenting, I usually realize this when I hear her in the baby monitor down in our kitchen (how have my kids survived?).

However, this is one of her new stunts. She was so proud.

Ry didn't attempt anything this daring until she was about 2.

The Fourth

2010-07-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

First camping trip of the year (have a cluster of mosquito bites on my ankle and foot to prove it).

We went to San Luis Lakes State Park. It was a barren wilderness, lots of sage brush and sand.

We were joined by great friends and of course there was yummy camp food.

The girls navigating the 4 hr. car ride.

Sand dunes in the middle of the mountains. It was crazy hot. Thank goodness there was a little water spot for the kids to splash around in and Sophie to eat the mud.

Sophie and her buddy eating breakfast. They were at the most awkward age to go camping. Can't walk yet and the smorgasbord of dirt and bugs on the ground would be a little much. I was pretty tired of holding her an hour into camping.

Ry and her buddies.

Hiking through a freezing stream to see an AMAZING waterfall.

Our camping trip was a success. Thanks to Sophie and Ry for cooperating.

I see another camp out in our future real soon.

Hey Ladies!

2010-07-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

I have felt pretty spoiled lately with several girl's nights out. The latest was joining the millions of other moms hooting and hollering over Jacob and Edward at Eclipse. I swear the whole theater was giddy and giggling, not me of course...I'm way too mature for that.

Thanks for the pic. Margaret!

10 Month Sophie

2010-06-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

Sophie. Sophie. Sophie.

Still into everything, only now doors and drawers and heights can't deter her like they did before.

Throws each pea one by one on the floor as if it's ridiculous I would try to serve them to her.

Cracks me up whenever she is mad and looks me straight in the eyes and lets out a 10 second scream. Then I cringe because it won't be funny forever.

Developed dad and Ry's sleeping habits (up by 6), yuck.

She wants to be as big as her sister so bad.

Refused to eat baby food around 8 months and then turned into a carnivore.

Yells "mom" all the time. And occasionally will say "Iyee" for Ry...but still no "dad".

Favorite game to play is Timber, played on Ry's bed, being pushed over then tickled (Ry's favorite game too, since she's the one doing the pushing).

Other favorite game is Doggie, where Ry drags her around by her shirt saying "come on Soph" (picture below).

Favorite sound...Ry and Sophie busting up laughing in the back seat.

So Determined. So Crazy. So Enjoyable.

I've noticed that in almost all the pics. my kids are in pajamas. I could say it's because it's early in the morning or bedtime...but let's be honest. Some days my kids never make it out of jammies, and neither does their mom.

Three birds...one stone

2010-06-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had lots of reasons to celebrate Kev, three to be exact. So this post is dedicated to a great husband, an intense biker, and obviously a great dad.

Reason # 1: HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

It has been 6 years since he hooked himself to this ball and chain. No complaints on my end (can't talk for Kev), I can't speak well enough about this man. What kind of romantic celebration was in store...a silent auction for the Scouts, with the kids.

Upside: Bid and won an awesome looking blueberry crisp. Downside: Yo Grabba Grabba Sophie grabbing hold and yanking it onto the church floor...upside down. Upside: It looked so good I ate it anyways, don't judge me.

Reason # 2: Bike Race

My kids have hope. Although their mother's physical abilities are a joke, Kev did a 45 mile bike race this weekend. He did awesome, and I'm trying to convince him to do it on a tandem bike with me next year, or better yet, pull me in the bike trailer.

Reason # 3: Father's Day

The girls love their dad. Given the option they would rather stay home with Kev than me. Whenever Ry is sick she always asks for her dad. I love it.

Also, I love my dad. I don't see him hardly enough with him living in Hong Kong, but he is there for me and I love him (I love you dad!).

So there I did it. Killed three birds with one stone (which is an awful saying) but you get the point.

The girls love their dad, and I'm willing them to inherit so many of his qualities.

Pre race. Go #1438! Did I mention he was the 6th biker to cross the finish line...I am in awe.

I love this smattering of pictures. I was trying to capture one of Kev and I in honor of our anniversary. Just like life though the kids wiggled their way into our moment...which made it a little gigglier.

More Idaho

2010-06-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Our trip to Idaho was last minute, but the timing was great. We got to spend the weekend in Jackson with two of Kev's brothers and their families. We stayed in one of their AMAZING cabins and enjoyed spending time with family.

I have to say...what is the deal Idaho?? I leave sunny warm Colorado to go to cloudy windy and out right cold Idaho - Idaho...you've changed.

Despite the cold we ventured out and seriously enjoyed ourselves.

On the way up to the ALPINE SLIDE.

Is it too much to ask of your 3 yr. old to smile and look at the camera?

Kev and Sophie on their way up and Ry and I on the way down.

Even the 10 mo. old knows to look at the camera.

Hiking up to a waterfall...I'm sure it has a name but that is the sort of detail I never remember.

Thankfully we took the boat back... I was tired from the excursion (I mean the kids were exhausted).

And my favorite pics. from our trip, look at the pure joy on this little one's face.
I'm sure I would be just as happy if someone lugged me up the mountain (basking in the sun, taking a nap along the way) that's a good life.

Idaho Projects and Rantings

2010-06-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

Fresh back from a two week hiatus to good ol' Idaho.

What I came back to: Kev (who had to fend for himself most of that time), a clean house and dinner (thank you, thank you, thank you babe), and a computer that crashed. I'm determined not to buy a new one because we are going to be out of school in 5 months...it only needed to last 5 MORE MONTHS!! Hey, we are going on week 4 without a microwave so we'll see how long I can hold out. Please car don't fail us now.

While in Idaho my mom and I tackled several projects, namely painting a dresser, tv stand, bed, master bedroom, and bathroom. It was delightful since I don't have a home of my own to work on. Thanks mom for letting me mess with your house.

2010-05-30T19:42:00.000-07:00

I think life would never be as entertaining with out Ry (or as frustrating...but I'm focusing on the happy). I've become one of those parents who tells other people the really "funny" things their kid says, while these people politely listen and act like it's as interesting as I think it is. Anyways, this is some of the good stuff Ry has said/done lately...thanks for politely listening.

Naughty Jesus

While Ry was pretending the other day I thought I heard the word Jesus somewhere in her conversation. When I asked her what was going on she replied "I'm pretending to be a naughty Jesus". Hmm...don't know what to think of that.

Circle of Life

Ry loves Lion King and loves to sing, so Ry is constantly belting out Circle of Life at the top of her lungs. She has assigned me to sing the part with the African lyrics...struggle.

Stinky Dad

After Kev came home from playing basketball Ry took one big smell and declared that "dad smells like a diaper", which of course he does not.

Love my Ry, she makes life...interesting.

Small Somewhat Sad Garden

2010-05-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

A downside of apartment living...no yard. no garden. Even though we couldn't plant some serious crops we were able to do a container garden, or a "bucket" garden in our case.

So we headed to our local Nursery (Nick's) and as we walked up to the store I seriously started getting giddy seeing all the flowers. It could be that I'm used to going to Home Depot for all our planting needs, but this place felt magical. Costco has some serious competition now for our Saturday afternoon activity.

I think Ry was even more excited than I was.

Ry loved helping plant the tomatoes, peppers, and basil. She's so excited to water them everyday and I'm so excited to eat our spoils.

Sophie wanted to be part of the action, but we kept her back (dirt and leaves are her favorite snacks).

Visitors!

2010-05-10T15:04:00.000-07:00

You know the kind...they invite themselves over and stay for WAY too long.

Ha! Just kidding (Dan and Tish)!

My brother, his wife, and their daughter chose us to spend their two week school break with. We were honored and a little nervous they would regret that decision. In an effort to show them how fun and awesome we are we planned lots of fun activities.

Unfortunately at least half of our party was sick at any given moment, so we weren't able to do ALL the cool stuff we planned. I'm talking a double ear infection for my niece,

fevers, coughs, and just feeling like crud for most everyone else.

Anyways, we loved having you guys. Please come again...I'm already lonely.

Rockie's Baseball Game

That Red Vine kept Sophie entertained the whole game...I might start bringing those to church.

Bowling and Pizza...good combo.

Hammond's Candy Factory Tour

My personal favorite...all you can eat sushi. Need I say more.

Once again food seems to be the theme in all my pics.

And let us not forget our Cinco de Mayo dinner, Hot Pot, the zoo, lunches at the park, Mario Party, and a visit from Grandma Lou!

Hey Mamas!

2010-05-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

First off...Happy Mother's Day to all the women out there, but especially to my mother and my mother-in-law. Both amazing mothers and grandmothers.

This pic. is a year old, so Sophie is still just a bun in the oven.

I love my hubby and my kiddos, thanks for the flowers, hugs, kisses and making me a mommy.

Ry informed me that we need a Daughter's Day. And that on this special day she will stay home with her dad, while I run to Costco to get HER flowers.

Where's the Resemblance

2010-05-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

Baby Sophie and baby Rylee both at 8 months old. Not much of a resemblance in personality and apparently in looks either.

And it seems as if my picture taking skills are on the decline...rats.

Dresser Face Lift

2010-04-25T21:20:00.000-07:00

I mentioned earlier about a dresser I wanted to freshen up with some paint. I finally got to it and am pretty pleased with the outcome. I love refinishing or painting old furniture, it takes absolutely no skill or talent (unlike photography and sewing...talents I would love and long for).

Here's the dresser (it was Kev's before we tied the knot).

And the girlier, freshly painted dresser with it's white milk glass handles.

8 Month Sophie

2010-04-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

8 month Sophie is completely different from 6 month Sophie.

Primary difference being free range of the house.

I find her staring longingly up the stairs, pushing all our soaps and shampoos into the bathtub, and sticking dirt. leaves. rubber bands. and sometimes food into her mouth (keeping choking hazards off the ground...a lot more difficult with a 3 year old running loose).

She now has an aversion to toys but loves power cords and paper.

She's looking more and more like a McMinn (I think it's the ears).

Her favorite person is still Ry.

So independent. So adventurous. So different from her sister.

Allergy Check Up

2010-04-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

Today we had our annual trip to the allergist and asthma specialist for Ry. I absolutely dread these appointments and ask (ok beg) Kev to go in my place, it is so traumatizing for me.

What it entails:

Putting a full body bind on Ry so that the nurse can prick her with 30 different scratch tests causing welts and hives to form all over her back.

Trying to hold it together as Ry pleads through her sobs "I want daddy" and "no more pokies".

Watching movies and bribing her with marshmallows to forgive me for doing this to her.

The results:

She is one allergic kid (the first words from the doc when she enters the room).

Add to her existing list of allergies (milk, egg, and peanuts) trees, grass and weeds.

Apparently she has Asthma, which explains why she's had a "cough" since January.

Can't do a post without a pic.

2010-04-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

Who's the baby here?

It's not the one sucking her thumb, holding her blanky, hanging out in the exersaucer.

2010-04-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

Time to baby proof, this ones gone mobile.

The carrot we dangled...Big Sister and a couple of spoons.

Am I too Late?

2010-04-06T14:11:00.000-07:00

Easter has come and gone but know we were thinking of our friends and family, hoping they were enjoying this special holiday.

Do you ever feel like you have been so busy and that is why your house is in shambles and your "Happy Easter" post is late? Then I reflect back on the past couple days and can't recall what exactly made them busy, and I am resigned to the fact I just am not a very efficient person.

Back to Easter - Ry did two Easter Egg hunts. The first one was not documented with pics. because she outright refused to participate, but the second one she decided candy was worth hunting for and had a fun time.

Easter Baskets Easter Morn.

I have a hard time expressing the more serious feelings in the form of a blog post. But I know why we celebrate Easter and I'm really grateful for Him.

Business, and a Little Pleasure

2010-04-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

Eight months. That's how long we have left being full time students. I'm so excited, and a tad stressed at the same time. I'm excited for us to join the rest of the grown ups who have actual jobs, and a little stressed about finding said job but more specifically choosing a place to live (possibly forever, yikes!). That said, we headed to Washington and Oregon to check things out and look for practices (at last).

This is Ry's favorite part of traveling, "riding" the suitcase.

Most of our time was spent looking for practices. Our kids were such troopers. We probably logged over 10 hrs. in the car and spent our four nights in three different cities. We did manage to fit in a few fun stops and see some really great friends along the way.

Point Defiance Park in Washington. Yes my baby is eating a rock, and yes that's gross

Pike's Place Market

Stopped at the Chocolate Factory by Pike's Place Market, Kev went in with Ry and she came out with this. I thought Kev had lost his mind and forgotten our kid will go into anaphylactic shock if she consumes dairy (usually found in chocolate). Well thanks to the Vegans out there, Ry can enjoy her first chocolate covered anything (pretzel). This girl was dancing with excitement.

Took a short hike to this awesome waterfall near Salem, OR.

No decisions have been made, but I loved both Washington and Oregon. The trees were covered with blooms, everything was covered with vibrant green moss, green green everywhere. What a contrast when you come from a state that has green two months of the year.

Spring Break in MinnesOta

2010-03-30T15:07:00.000-07:00

Some people like to go to Hawaii for Spring Break and others like to do cruises, but we prefer the beautiful state of MinnesOta (and visiting family). During our three hour delay at the airport I figured out that Ry has traveled by airplane 14 times (15 now, post coming). Let me add a disclaimer, each one of these trips was a visit to family (even the 13 hr. plane ride to Hong Kong), but still we are very lucky to see our families so often.

MinnesOta may not be warm sunny beaches, but with the big indoor play area, Mall of America, Dim Sum, and lots of family we had a blast.

Our seasoned traveler

Sophie checking out the airplanes even though she's supposed to be napping on the dirty airport floor

Thank you Grandma Lou, we already miss you.

Moustache March

2010-03-19T08:56:00.000-07:00

Today marks the end of MOUSTACHE MARCH...thank goodness. I would get the eebie jeebies just looking at this mug.

Now imagine a whole Orthodontic office full of these creeps.

You're still handsome babe, gross moustache and all.

FORE!

2010-03-15T13:19:00.000-07:00

Colorado came through again with a beautiful sunny weekend. We loaded up the golf clubs and the kiddos and headed to the driving range.

I'm so happy Kev can golf, ski, wake board, and bike 70 miles.

This gives me hope that my kids will inherit their dad's athletic abilities and aren't doomed to be physically awkward like their mother. While I'm hoping, I might as well put it out there that it would be ideal if they got his brains too.

Here Comes the Sun

2010-03-08T22:41:00.000-08:00

Finally, a sunny warm Saturday! It makes me so excited for the summer and our fun weekend outings. Our current winter outings consist of samples and lunch at Costco (which I love), but I am ready to spend our Saturdays outdoors.

So what do you do with your two kids on a nice Saturday? You take a tour of the Coors Brewery of course. Brewing beer, pretty interesting actually, and smells a little like cat food. When they were giving out free samples I was kind of wishing we were at a juice making plant...but I don't know if they do tours.

We finished our outing with a little hike...through the snow. Ry picked some flowers and the little monkey on my back really enjoyed herself.

I can't wait until the next warm Saturday to bask in the sun. Neither can these babies.

Pasty white legs+Moustache March=one hottie who shall remain nameless

Ry's Bed...and other ramblings

2010-03-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

Ry has been in her big bed for a while now, but it has been a work in project. It is finally complete. Well, almost complete...it is supposed to be a four poster bed, but is currently a two poster bed awaiting to be fixed by Kev (Kev-I'll pay you a dollar if you fix it! Don't laugh, this works all the time with him if I say it with enough enthusiasm). The bed is from Craigs List and Kev hates that I buy used furniture because he usually has to help me strip (the paint off)/paint/fix or do something to make them just right. I tell him to be happy that I'm cheap (or at least the used furniture I buy is cheap).

Back to the bed. It is complete as far as the bedding goes. I would love to say I did it all, but we all know I didn't. My mom, the amazingly talented sewer, made the quilt totally all on her own without any input from me (she is such a cool grandma). She helped me make the yellow duvet under the quilt, which was surprisingly easy by using two flat twin sheets, and didn't require any cutting (right up my alley). I made the pillows, which I realize are not anything fancy but still considered a big accomplishment for me since a sewing machine was involved.

My next project involves a dated dresser and desk, pale yellow paint, and new hardware. I'll give you a dollar Kev if you help me with it!

ERs, DRs, and RAD

2010-03-01T15:07:00.000-08:00

Wow our kids go to the doctors' a lot. It's never anything major (knock on wood), but still between Ry's visits to the allergist, Sophie's visits to the orthopod, a few E.R. visits here and there, and all the routine checkups, we are no strangers to the health care system.

Saturday Ry had a normal cold. Towards the evening her breathing started to get a little fast and wheezy, but this is pretty typical for her when she's sick. We finally called the nurse line when she started grunting after each breath and were advised to call an ambulance. That seemed like a big waste of money for everyone so instead we drove the one mile to the nearest hospital.

Diagnosis -she has Bronchiolitis and something called Reactive Airway Disease (RAD). Meaning if she gets a virus it can trigger her airways to tighten making it difficult for her to get enough oxygen. This causes the wheezing, fast breathing, and her colds to last for weeks (What? That's not normal...good job mom of the year). They admitted us for two nights, gave her oxygen and a bunch of Nebulizers, and told us to see a respiratory specialist (that makes three specialists for the McMinn girls).

Times like these we are so grateful to have awesome friends. We lured the McDonoughs to our house Saturday evening with the promise of dinner and games, and instead left them with Sophie and a bunch of under cooked chicken. Please still be our friends.

Happy 6 Months Sophie

2010-02-25T14:27:00.000-08:00

Baby Sophie

So easy. So happy. So cute.

I love that her hair currently looks like a bad toupee. Love that she has the same light colored eyes as her dad and sister. And really love that no one makes her light up more than Rylee does.

So glad this one got her dad's laid back easy going personality.

RYLEE DAY

2010-02-22T14:54:00.001-08:00

This past Saturday was declared RYLEE DAY! It included opening presents, lunch at Costco, and ended with her first official birthday party.

PRESENTS

Ry was spoiled, not so much by us, but certainly by her grandparents and friends. Grandpa Chow and Venus got Ry her own set of golf clubs. Kev can not wait to get Ry out to the driving range this summer, if she can't be an Olympic skier she will be a professional golfer (no pressure Ry).

THE SPREAD

I was determined to make lots of goodies that Ry could eat. The challenge...have you tried doing lots of desserts without eggs and milk? We ended up with chocolate cake, cupcakes, sugar cookies, and rice crispies. We did cheat a little and serve ice cream to everyone else, I did not want to make our guests eat Rice Dream with their cake (tried it...not so dreamy).

Ry was loving the free for all sweet feast. That poor girl will watch her friends eat cookies, ice cream, or cake all the time and be excited to get a graham cracker.

RYLEE DAY was a success, except to maybe Sophie who apparently does not like when you put a big cone on her head.

Birthday Girl

2010-02-19T19:26:00.000-08:00

Three years ago I was in the worst pain of my life, pleading with Kev to ask the Dr. to turn the epidural back up, moments away from one of the biggest blessings in my life...welcoming Rylee to the world and to our family.

I love this kid. Love her more than I thought possible. So grateful this special quirky spirit was sent to our family.

Sewing Dresses

2010-02-17T14:08:00.000-08:00

With my mom here this weekend I thought it would be a good time to learn to use a sewing pattern. I only like to sew things that are square shaped and don't require a pattern (that would be pillows). My mom however is a sewing expert, without her I would have taken one look at the pattern and chucked it (seriously...nothing makes me feel more incompetent than when I'm trying to sew). So here are the finish products, a dress for Ry and one for Sophie.

Little nervous for them to actually wear them, I think I will bring back up clothes in case the dresses suddenly fall apart

2010-02-14T13:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

If you didn't get your card, it probably got lost in the mail.

Hitting the Slopes

2010-02-13T16:28:00.000-08:00

Kev has been looking forward to this day since Ry was born - taking her skiing. After easing into it Ry loved it. She went from refusing to be set down on the snow to skiing from Grandma down to dad by herself.

Ever been to a ski area where all the power goes out? No power in the lodge and no power on the mountain. Well Eldora encountered this technical difficulty for the first time, which just happened to be the day we were there. Another problem, the gusty wind which shut down the ski lifts to the upper mountain. To make up for the inconvenience we were given passes for another day, looks like we will be taking Ry again sooner than we thought.

Thanks Grandma for taking us, and watching Sophie at the lodge so I could see Ry ski for the first time!

On a side note, Kev informed me we have to have an even number of kids so that everyone will have a buddy on the ski lift.

It's Official!

2010-02-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

After eight years and four universities I have finally accomplished the task that usually takes people four years to do. I earned my bachelor's degree! What took me so long? Here are some of the excuses that helped me to sleep at night for the past 8 years!

Marriage
Moving
Transfers
Baby
Working
Blah Blah Blah (more lame excuses)
Online Classes through BYU - the real excuse and the bane of my existence

In all fairness it was those three BYU online classes (psychology, biology, and history...yuck) that took me the past three years to finish. They took some serious self discipline that apparently I was lacking. So while Kev was busy graduating from dental and ortho school, I managed to earn my BSBA in Accounting. Yeah for me!

Serenity Now!

2010-02-04T13:08:00.000-08:00

I love these two...

but does serenity come in the form of nap time to anyone else out there?

serenity now, serenity now, SERENITY NOW!

The 2 Minute Cake

2010-02-01T13:43:00.001-08:00

That's right, a cake that only takes 2 minutes to make, and that's not the craziest part. This cake is made in the microwave! I don't know how this secret has been kept from me for so long, but our friends the McDonoughs finally let us in on it. We have now made it twice, and it is a great treat for after the kiddos are in bed and Kev and I are up watching the Bachelor (I mean only I watch the Bachelor...right). Try it, it's pretty tasty!

Mix together:

4 Tblsp Flour

5 Tblsp Sugar

2 Tblsp Cocoa

3 Tblsp Milk

3 Tblsp Oil

1 Egg

Pinch of salt

Few drop of vanilla

Spray a ramekin or hot chocolate mug with some Pam and add your batter. Then microwave it for 2-3 mins. Our microwave is older than I am so it takes about 3 mins, but if you have a microwave made after 1970 that has a little more power you might be able to do it in 2.

If you want to get really fancy, we added caramel to the bottom of our ramekin before we poured the batter in, and then added chocolate syrup to the top (obviously I didn't make New Year's resolutions that focused on eating better, have you seen how many times I mention food in my posts?).

Baby Cereal - yummy, yummy

2010-01-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

It's time for...solids!

Is it normal to not be as excited to start your second kid on food? Don't get me wrong, I was mildly excited...but I was ridiculously excited with Ry. Hopefully this one's eyes won't swell shut when it's time for milk and eggs.

First time trying the slimy substance not so interested.

Second time attacked the spoon...that's my girl.

Pictures courtesy of the new camera we caved in and bought. I thought about going the next 10 mos. without one (for about 10 seconds).

I Love the Rodeo...food

2010-01-23T10:05:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love a good rodeo? You have all the awesome animals, which were actually looking quite pretty after being washed and I'm convinced blown dry by the looks of their fluffy coats. Then there's the actual rodeo with all those cowboys being bucked around, jumping onto calves (baby cows for you city folk), roping, and good ol' mutton bustin'. But my favorite part, which you probably all can guess, was the delicious fair like food. Where else can you get fried Oreos, fried Snickers, or fried Twinkies...no seriously...where else can I pick one of those up (they were delicious)?

pictures courtesy of Michelle...again (thanks!).

Our Yurt Expedition

2010-01-20T12:49:00.000-08:00

I'm ready to document our trip to the yurt, especially since I snagged these photos from our friends who managed to make it home with their camera still intact (Thanks Michelle!).

It's the first time I've been and it was really awesome. It was gorgeous, the mountains, the snow, and the most brilliant stars....amazing. Rylee freaked out for the first hour as only Rylee can, crying, screaming and repeatedly begging to leave. We brought out the big guns to get the situation under control, a Dora movie and Oreos. Of course the best part of camping trips is camp food (at least for me), and I was not disappointed with Dinty Moore beef stew, rolls, chex mix, hot chocolate, sausage, and pancakes.

We were a little nervous about the temperature inside the yurt plummeting after we all went to bed. In theory it sounded like a good idea to pack the stove with as much wood as possible, keeping you warmer and allowing you to sleep longer before you had to wake up and add more wood. In practice this created an inferno and rocketed the temperature of the yurt to 100 degrees (there was a thermometer inside), making it practically impossible to sleep.

We had a great time, even Rylee. Snow shoeing was fun, the food was delicious, our friends are awesome, and Colorado is beautiful.

Back from the Yurt - Cameraless

2010-01-18T17:15:00.000-08:00

We made it back from our trip to the yurt...well we almost all made it back. Unfortunately the camera is probably somewhere by the trail we were snow shoeing on. I have no one to blame but myself since I was wearing the baby carrier with the pocket holding the camera. I would post more...but I'm too sad from writing about the camera and how dumb I am. Later.

A Preview of Our Weekend

2010-01-14T08:10:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things my weekend has in store for me...

These

this...

this place

and a couple of kids that look like this

Wish me luck, and if you don't hear from me call search and rescue!

My Big Baby

2010-01-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

I've been noticing a trend in some of the pics. I've posted lately, so I went back and took a look and sure enough there is definitely something weird going on.

Why is my child covering her ears in all these pics?? Because trains, carousels, and wagon rides are extremely scary to all two year olds right? Add to that list Dora movies (actually any movie), Santa Clause (which causes a full fledge panic attack), and anything that produces a somewhat loud noise. I love my weird kid.

Our Two Week Hiatus!

2010-01-03T16:59:00.000-08:00

One of the perks of being a full time student - the two week Christmas Break! We packed everything up and headed out as soon as Kev got out of school and braced ourselves for the long car ride...hence the 2 liter Mtn. Dew.

The Sunday before Christmas all dolled up, well at least the girls were...me not so much. I love how Ry has to put a head lock on Sophie in order to hold her.

Christmas Morning!! This pic totally captures the joy on Ry's face as she runs towards me wanting to show me a sweater she got in her stocking...so easy to please.

The rest are pics. of everyone enjoying the spoils of Christmas day. It was so awesome to spend those two weeks with family. Some other highlights of the trip included:

McMinn reunion (with all 19.5 grandkids but minus Grandma and Grandpa who are on a mission)
Two trips to the movie theater
Lots of hours on the Wii with my sister-in-law
Lunch with old friends
Lots of Grandma Lou time for Ry
Many nights of games
and as always delicious food that I didn't have to make

Mullet Tribute

2009-12-18T13:54:00.000-08:00

Ry's mullet has been giving me problems since she was born. Part of the problem is I am not the sort of mom to do my kid's hair every morning, realistically we're lucky if I do it once a week. I thought after cutting her hair it would miraculously grow into a thick luxurious hairstyle, and yet the mullet is creeping back into my life. It's a good thing the rest of her is so cute. I only hope she can one day forgive me for letting her walk around with such embarrassing hair (my favorite is the one with the pumpkin, poor kid).

An Evening at the Zoo

2009-12-15T14:30:00.000-08:00

This last frigid Saturday we went to the zoo, not to observe the animals, but to see all the awesome Christmas lights. We also rode the carousel and ate Papa Murphy's Pizza, which makes for a great night in my book.

Christmas Miracle

2009-12-08T13:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it's not the warm and fuzzy sort of miracle that gives you chills...but it's pretty miraculous considering.

This was last years sad attempt at making a stocking for Ry.

The two normal looking stocking were ones we bought when we first got married. When I broke out the pathetic little one to hang up this year, Kevin laughed and said he didn't think we could even fit a present in there.

So with a little planning before actually cutting and sewing I was able to make two new stockings that at least won't cause Kev to bust up every time he looks at them. Now if only I had planned a little more when picking out the different colors of fabric all the stocking could have matched (Kev says the yellow one looks like it came straight from the 70s).

Family Pics!

2009-12-03T12:49:00.000-08:00

Hurray! We finally found someone to take pics. of our family since the ones from when Ry was 3 months old are a tad bit outdated. Thanks go out to Becca, she was awesome to work with and didn't even appear to be slightly annoyed when my two year old was her usual sassy defiant self(check out her website if you live in Denver, and like us you don't have a family or friend who just happens to be a photographer).

Thanksgiving in Nauvoo

2009-11-30T10:39:00.000-08:00

We had the pleasure of spending our Thanksgiving (and my B'day) in Nauvoo where Kev's parents are on a mission. Ry couldn't get enough of Grandma and Grandpa Mc, we had a blast seeing the sights, and Sophie was her usual lumpy content self.

Wagon Ride with Jim and John (the horses)

Seeing the Sights

Hanging Around the House

My B'day (or to most people Thanksgiving) where Annette was in Charge of Feeding 240 People!

Traveling Home

Pics. of the Nauvoo temple to come, Kev was practically giddy when his parents let him use their much nicer camera. The joy and excitement in his face told me he has added it to the long list of things we want when we're out of school.

The End Is Near!!

2009-11-23T10:53:00.000-08:00

Read the CAKE!!! If you can't then let me spell it out for you - 9 DOWN 1 TO GO- or in other words we officially only have one year of school left. Let's celebrate, well...we already celebrated, but it's worth celebrating all week long.

What are we celebrating? Plenty, Only One More Year Of:

Paying Tuition
Financing our groceries for the next 20 years (I guess I'm pretty excited to have an income)
Waking at 2 in the morning to Mariachi music
Waking at 3 in the morning to someone's pounding bass
Waking at 4 in the morning to motorcycles racing down the parking lot (so ready to move out of our classy apartments)
Sharing a car
10 Vacation days for 2 years

Way to go Kev, the end is in sight.

2009-11-20T13:15:00.000-08:00

Today this one made me laugh.

She has "special" shoes, or "magic" shoes as our friend Aaron puts it. They must seem like they weigh a ton to this tiny little lump. What made me laugh was her attempt to roll over with them on (imagine rolling from your back to front with a 15 lb. snow board on). I know kids always seem funnier to their parents, but thought I would share Sophie's awkward attempt at rolling over.

Starting Position

Use every ounce of muscle under those rolls and Buddha belly to lift your abnormally heavy foot

The half way mark, which if you can make it just past this the weight of your abnormally heavy foot will do the rest

And so it ends, legs awkwardly stuck in a successful roll over position yet body is stuck somewhere between.

2009-11-18T14:15:00.000-08:00

Thank you Goodwill givers for

These (chairs)

This (trunk)

and this (frame)

also Hobby Lobby and Home Depot for the supplies needed, and Kev for your assistance, to complete my projects.

Visitors Welcomed

2009-11-13T14:01:00.000-08:00

I love having visitors, so the invitation is out there for people to come to the fun state of Colorado and hang out with us!!

We had a fun weekend with Kev's brother and his wife, Jeff and Maja. Some of the highlights included:

All you can eat sushi

Shopping

Red Robin

Shopping

Garden of the God's

Visit to the Maynards

Shopping

Caraba's

STEELER'S GAME!!

Although I don't actually have any pics. with our visitors in them, here is one they snapped of us at Garden of the God's. The best part was I had lost 20 lbs. since our last visit there.

The girls and I didn't get to go to the Steeler's game, so we hung out at home, snapping pictures, watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and the game on t.v.

2009-11-03T15:26:00.000-08:00

I wasn't going to do the Halloween post....but here Grandmas and Grandpas are pics. of Ry in her Halloween costume!

And fyi for everyone...those are not a pair of jeans Kev previously owned. Those were a special Goodwill, two sizes too small, perma wedgy purchase just to be worn for Halloween 2009. Kev - you're a good sport!

We did Boo at the Zoo this year. It was fun to walk around on such a nice day and be entertained by everyone's costumes. The most original?? Probably the guy dressed as Jesus.

SNOW DAY!!

2009-10-30T14:11:00.000-07:00

Kevin didn't have to go to school yesterday because he had a SNOW DAY!! He got a day and a half off from school because Denver got dumped on. Good thing because the day he was sent home early he crashed twice on his bike (Disclaimer: I offered to pick him up), seriously...who rides their bike in a foot of snow? Here is how we spent our exciting snow day:

Dad and Ry played and shoveled...look at all that snow!

Kev and I watched a movie and had sushi and home made hot chocolate (I know...weird combo).

And Miss Sophie could care less what was going on...but she's soooo cute I had to add her picture.

Sophie's New Hardware

2009-10-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

Sophie's cast is off, but unfortunately it has been replaced by the bulkier, more annoying, more restrictive boots and bar. Kev and I don't recall the Dr. mentioning having to use the boots, let alone for two months full time, when we were talking about options...but what can you do. Last night we tried them on for the first time and they did not agree with Sophie one bit....to say she was irate would be an understatement. So we took them off, let her have a good nights sleep (9hrs. to be exact) and tried them again today. I am happy to say that they don't seem to bother her nearly as much as they did last night, so I guess I will be a good patient and comply with the Dr's. orders.

Off To Grandma Lou's

2009-10-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

The girls and I hopped on a plane to Poky (well SLC) to visit Grandma Lou. Dad had to fend for himself all week, although I don't think he minded having to fill his extra time with golfing, biking, and fishing. Here are some of the highlights:

Lots of hugs and cuddles

My mom had tons of apples from her tree so Ry helped peel and core them, then we dried them (so good).

In Ry's two and a half years of life she has never tasted ice cream (which is a favorite of mine, so naturally I feel she is missing out big time) so we found some sorbet she could eat and pretty soon she was requesting it for breakfast.

Thanks for letting us hang out with you Grandma Lou, and thanks dad for letting us go.

Hair Dos and Donts

2009-10-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

What happens when you wake up on a Saturday morning and say to your husband "I need a new project". Unfortunately if you don't have something around the house to fix up (which was along the lines of what I was thinking) you make a project out of your daughter's hair. I tried to give Ry a cute hair cut and went a tad bit too short...so now she has a classic mushroom hair do (which is actually a hair don't unless a professional does it).

My other child on the other hand has awesome hair, so here are some pics. of Sophie's many hair dos. Actually when it's dry she only has one hair style, the kind that looks like she stuck her finger in the outlet.

THE BIG 30

2009-10-08T06:23:00.000-07:00

Looky who is turing thirty (hopefully you didn't guess me). Kevin's b'day is today and it's a big one! Although you are getting up there in years kev you still look like the young buck I met seven years ago (minus the braces).

On a side note, we definitely need to get a decoy present next year for Kev so Ry doesn't spill the beans on all of dad's real b'day presents (I know you can't wait to get those socks Kev!).

The Truth Be Told

2009-10-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

After watching General Conference Ry began to sing "I am a Child of God" along with the music. I like to think she just misunderstood the words, but if I am being honest I think she was trying to send me a message as she sang:

I am a child of God and he has sent me here
Has given me a DIRTY home with parents kind and dear

Message received...cleaned the house today.

Sophie's first...and hopefully last cast

2009-09-28T12:41:00.000-07:00

Sophie's leg is not broken, let's get that out there because I don't know how a 5wk old could break their leg without the parent looking a little negligent (although I'm sure it happens). Instead, she has a mildly clubbed left foot. So in order for her to live my dreams of her becoming a beautiful dancer one day (or a basketball player if you ask Kev) we are getting it corrected. Ry picked blue for the cast color so needless to say everyone was commenting on how cute our little boy's hair was the whole way out of the hospital.

On a side note, a visit to a Children's Hospital quickly makes you appreciate the healthy bodies your children have. We met an adorable 5 yr. old boy who was in a wheel chair and has cerebral palsy. We chatted with him for a while, he was so outgoing and talkative. We then saw him on the way out of the hospital and started chatting again. He pointed out how he now has a cast just like Sophie's, but he has two of them instead of one. Seeing all the kids in the hospital with their various conditions broke my heart, but talking to this little boy brought a huge smile to my face.

A Gross Post

2009-09-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

It is only a matter of time before one gets pooped on when you have a baby. Last night was our night, at 3 in the morning. I'm not talking blowout, I'm talking about mid diaper change a stream of baby poop spraying all over my shirt. Thankfully Kev woke up from my gasp and helped clean everything up so we could all go back to bed (seriously thanks Kev). One may not have a preferred time to be pooped on, but mine would be during the day.

2009-09-17T14:50:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when I finish feeding baby and ask Kev to put her "away"

Which is not too far off from where she actually sleeps....the closet.

Matching Sisters

2009-09-13T19:21:00.000-07:00

Ry and Sophie have one set of matching outfits (thanks Aunt Ruth!), so today for church they were matchy matchy.

Don't mind the booger in this picture. And I thought getting a decent pic. of just Ry was hard.

Blessing Day

2009-09-06T20:55:00.000-07:00

Although this pic. is not of Sophie's baby blessing day, it is pretty cute. She slept through her bath only to awaken and scream the moment we took her out. The best part of baths is afterwards when her hair dries and becomes the softest little fro (As seen in her blessing pics).

We decided to bless Sophie today because it was the only time we would have any family in town (my mom and little bro). We really wish Grandpa and Grandma Mc. could have been there, but we will see you soon!

Sophie

2009-08-23T05:41:00.000-07:00

We decided on a name. Sophie Marie. Things are still going great. Rylee loves being a big sister.

Baby Girl!!!

2009-08-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to let everyone know that our new baby arrived and to post some pictures. She was 8 lbs 1 oz and 20 inches long. She was born at 12:58 am this morning, Aug 22nd. We haven't decided on a name yet. Both Stef and the baby are doing great.

Still Alive....No Baby

2009-08-17T06:38:00.001-07:00

My desire to blog has been about at the same level as my desire to still be pregnant, hence no entry for over a month. Our count down to baby's due date is over, and now we'll see how stubborn she'll be and how far over we can go! It's not that bad, I actually feel good still and am not overly anxious to go through the whole birthing process again...we'll just leave it there. So here are some highlights from the last little bit:

Took some cute pics of Ry with my friend's nice camera

Ry riding her bike from G'ma Lou

Just thought this was pretty adorable

Found this really cute park with a train...

that Ry was a little apprehensive about...

a stream running through it...

and we had some great laying out on the grass time.

4th of July Weekend!!

2009-07-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

4th of July weekend was fantastic, largely because Kev had a long weekend. We ended up go camping from Thursday evening to Sunday by a place called Leadville. Colorado is gorgeous and I love finding new beautiful places here...it is going to be hard to leave next year but I think being done with school and having an income will make the transition a little easier. So here was our weekend of camping in a nutshell:

Little Biking
Little Fishing
Little Hiking
Way too much eating including:

roasted hot dogs, smores, starbursts, bagels, bread
homemade ice cream
peach cobbler
dutch oven chicken and potatoes
mountain man breakfast (eggs, cheese, hash browns, bacon, sausage in the dutch oven)
lots of other junk food

That summarizes our fun weekend.

My Baby's Daddy

2009-06-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

Father's day is long gone, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to post adorable pictures of my two favorite people. Ry adores Kev. The highlight of her day is when she hears him walking up the steps to our apartment after school, and I love that she would rather go hang out at cub scouts with dad, then play at home with mom. I needed a partner that would take on more responsibilities than most dads do and thank goodness Kev does. I may not be the natural motherly type...but at least I married someone who is...no offense Kev, it's a good thing.