2007...What A Year!

Well...I do have to admit, we are so excited to be ringing in the New Year. 2008 is sure to be our year. I thought it would be fun to do a quick look back on all the happenings of 2007. It was definitely a challenging year, but one that I've learned so much from.

So here it is...

2007 started off in January with me being diagnosed with mastocytosis. It is a very rare blood disorder where your body produces too many mast cells which can lead to some complications. Luckily with some minor lifestyle changes, I am so grateful that I am able to live a totally normal life. This diagnosis made me realize that you never know what tomorrow will bring, so you must live every single day to the fullest without worrying about tomorrow.

Scott celebrated his first birthday in January and shortly after Heidi announced she was pregnant with #2. We were all excited to find out he was another little boy (nothing better than brothers, less than 2 years apart). Tyler was born in September and I was able to experience the miracles of a live birth (with no meds). Thank you Heidi for letting me be a part of such an amazing event and thank you for also allowing me to realize I will never try to go natural as you bravly did.

Tyler underwent open heart surgery days later and now 4 months later is doing really good. Heidi and Danny have been so strong through it all and I'm so proud of them. I feel a very special connection to Tyler since we both have a congenital heart defect. Luckily mine was corrected through surgery at the age of 3, so I hope I can be a good support for him as he grows up.

My mom was also diagnosed with CLL, a form of leukemia. She battled a tough virus in October, but now seems to be doing great. I'm so grateful for my close relationship with my parents. They are my everything and I always look forward to our time together. I know my mom is going to do great this next year.

OK...so that was the hard times, but we also had a year filled with lots of fun, so here are some of the highlights...

*Jason and I went to Vegas in February. We had never traveled there together, so we had a blast with just the 2 of us. Sadly the fire alarm went off during our Beatle's Love Show and activated the sprinklers, but we did enjoy gambling, eating, dancing and the Blue Man Group.


*In April, we went to San Diego to meet up with my mom's side of the East coast family. We all met up in Escondido for a weekend of relaxation. It was great to see everyone.

*Amber and Adam moved back to Ohio, but we sent her off with a girls weekend to Napa.

*In May, we celebrated Jason's 10 year high school reunion. Jason had a dinner on Friday night and then we both headed to an A's game on Saturday.

*Took a quick trip to Denver in June to visit Ryan and Kimberly to celebrate their wedding. It was fun to see where they live and meet their friends.

*In July, Jason and I were both in Heather and Nate's bridal party. We had a good time walking down the aisle together and they had a beautiful reception at Wildwood Acres.


*In August our best friends, Ryan and Lauren moved away to Austin, but we visited them in October. Although they are far away, we know they are a quick plane trip to visit.

*In September Jason flew to North Carolina for Brad and Audrey's wedding, while I stayed home to be with my family during Tyler's surgery. Jason fell in love with North Carolina and I can't wait to go back with him someday.

*My 10th year high school reunion came in October and I had a great time on the planning committee. We threw it at Shadelands and everyone had a great weekend. Loved seeing friends!



*In November, we welcomed Marley Zipper Maddox to our family. We now have a mini zoo, but since I'm such an animal lover I couldn't be happier.


As we now approach 2008, I look forward to a wonderful year. There is sure to be challenges along the way, but I've learned as long as you keep looking forward before you know it another year is here.


Love to EVERYONE for all their support and friendship.

CHEERS TO A HAPPY, HEALTHY AND MEMORABLE 2008!

Insomnia

Last night I experienced some major insomnia. Was up from about 1am to 3am. Not sure why...maybe too much excitement running through my head after all the holiday activities. Usually I wake up Jason and try to get him to talk, but he wasn't feeling good (has a cold), so instead I just sat there trying to clear my head. I didn't want to turn on the light since it would wake up the pup, but after a 1/2 hour of not going back to bed I started to contemplate going to the living room to read.

All of a sudden out of nowhere up popped Serena. My tortoise shell cat, the love of my life. It really was as though she could sense that I needed a little extra love. So she climbed into bed and under the covers and snuggled with me all night. I didn't mind being awake since I could give her some much needed extra love (now that she doesn't get as much with the arrival of the pup.)

Not everyone understands cats and I'm the first to admit I was NOT always a cat person until I got my own. They are amazing animals that are all unique in their own ways, have funny quirks, are independent, loving and are creatures of ritual. I love them so much and they bring such happiness to our lives.

I got Serena about 4 years ago right before Christmas as a surprise present for Jason. Lauren and I visited the pet store and they were having Feral Cat adoptions (little did I know what a feral cat was at the time). I saw a little kittie named Sparky and thought it was a sign. Sparky is the name of the ASU mascot and where Jason and I went to school together. I figured as long as Sparky was nice I couldn't pass her up. So I held her and immediately she began to purr. So loud that I thought something was wrong with her. But a little girl came up to me (true story) and said, "You know the louder they purr, the more they love you." After that I was sold. I brought home Sparky (later named Serena) and gave her to Jason in a box. We tried telling him it was a turtle, but opened the box to find out we got a cat. One week later, we got another cat Sage. And that was the beginning of our family farm.

Merry Christmas

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and wonderful holiday celebration.

I look back on this year and realize how thankful I am for everything. Wishing you a holiday filled with happiness, health, love, and peace.

A little note on the dove since I love the story behind it:
In Judaism and Christianity, a white dove is generally a sign for peace. The Hebrew Bible describes a story in which a dove was released by Noah after the Great Flood in order to find land. The dove came back carrying an olive branch in its beak, telling Noah that the Great Flood had receded and there was land once again for Man. (Genesis 8:11).
The motif can also represent "hope for peace" and even a peace offering from one man to another, as in the phrase "extend an olive branch". Often, the dove is represented as still in flight to remind the viewer of its role as messenger. "

Visit The Wish Dish

I love to write and I love online shopping. So, I decided to start a blog that combined those two things...blogging about my favorite online shopping finds. I took a little inspiration from my good friend Oprah (her favorite things show) and started my blog, The Wish Dish.

Please visit my site at The Wish Dish

Address:
thewishdish.blogspot.com

You might find that last little item you are trying to find that perfect person in your life or better yet, yourself. You can also link to it from this site on the left side. Happy Wishing!

She's Growing by the Day

I now clasify Marley as being in her adolescence, no longer a puppy. She is getting so big, I can barely carry her anymore. I would guess she is close to 30 pounds. She continues to show us daily how sharp her teeth are, but is learning her potty training day by day.

We love her so much and can't believe how much joy she brings us. We often look at her and are mesmerized by how cute she is. (However she is currently trying to bite Jason as we speak.) When times get frusterating, we simply try to laugh and realize she won't be like this forever. Look at her cowlick on her nose. It is our favorite part about her. What character.

Work Holiday Party

We had our work holiday luncheon yesterday at Bridges Restaurant. I feel so lucky to work with such fun, creative and wonderful people. I've made some great friends at work this past year and I've realized one of the most important things in a job is the people. My favorite part about our holiday parties is that my company takes a survey and then puts together a publication to pass out at the luncheon titled, "The Worker Bee". It is hilarous to read through and this year they asked if anyone was a celebrity lookalike. Of course I got Kelly Clarkson...but then I also got Mandy Moore and my boss (next to me in the red) and I got that if we were combined together we would be some woman from CSI. Hey, I'll take 'em.

After the luncheon, a few of us headed to downtown Walnut Creek. I ended up staying out til about 9:00PM. By then I was exhausted...but it definitely worth it.

Dinner with Jen and Keith

Friday night we headed out to dinner with our friends, Jen and Keith. I truly feel so lucky to have met Jen while working years ago at Pickett Advertising. She has become one of my best friends and I feel like we have known each other forever. I'm so grateful for her friendship and the 4 of us always have such a good time together. Keith has become a helpful mentor to Jason and is always so inspirational with his strong work ethic and great career advice.

Keith owns a nutritional bar company, NuGo (Nutrition To Go) and it has become a growing success with all his dedicated, hard work. NuGo bars can be found at Costco and many other grocery stores. So next time you see them, try one out. I guarantee you'll love them.



Find out more here:
NuGo

Holiday Cooking Club

Heather O. hosted cooking club this month and we had a gift exchange where we all brought a cooking related gift. I started with stealing a cupcake mix but then ended up picking my own gift, a kitchen timer. I always think a good tactic to a gift exchange is to bring something you need yourself. That way you can always go home happy with your own gift.

I had so much fun with cooking club this past year and I hope that it will last for years to come. It is a great excuse to get together with everyone, have some wine and of course, learn to cook. I feel so lucky to be a part of such a wonderful group with the best group of girls.

Birthday Celebration at the Saddlerack

We headed out to Saddlerack last night to celebrate Angie and Tracy's birthdays. I wasn't sure what to expect (since I'm not much of country fan), but I heard it was a fun place and everyone warned me about the mechanical bull.

We had a blast! The country dancing scene is a total cultural experience and I loved being able to see something brand new. Everyone has a partner and they dance around in a circle. I never fully understood how everyone knew which dance to do, but each time the song changed, so did the dance. There were couples of all ages and everyone looked like they were having so much fun and so passionate about it. I loved seeing so many people truly enjoy what they were doing. It made me want to learn country dancing and although it didn't look too difficult, it was very intimidating to join the circle since everyone moved very fast. Next time we go, I'll plan ahead on learning a few of the basic steps.

Happy Birthday Angie and Tracy! YE-HAW!

New Spot In Town

Last weekend, a few of us headed to a new restaurant/lounge in Walnut Creek called 1515. It is located on Main Street and I liked it because there is a lot of seating in the bar with couches and chairs. It has a San Francisco feel and although we didn't order any food, the menu looked great. They do have a wonderful selection of martini's and we all found one that matched our taste. I went for the Pear Martini, while others went for the Blueberry or Dirty.

Check it out
1515 Restaurant and Lounge

Good Appointment

Tyler had a good Doctor's appointment on Friday. His oxygen saturation was higher, which is a good thing. This helps remind me of the things in life (such as good health) that we seldom think about, but should be so thankful for. You can read more about Tyler on Heidi's blog.

A Special Prayer for Tyler

Please keep Tyler in your prayers for the next few days. He had a doctor's appointment earlier this week and his oxygen saturation levels were low and he has been pretty fussy for the past few days. He will be heading back to the doctor on Friday and we are hopeful that things will be better. You can get a complete recap on my sister's blog. The other main news is that he will be heading back to UCSF in January for his 2nd surgery. We love you McMillan family and are so proud of you and your constant strength and faith.

Getting Bigger by the Day

Our little Marley is not so little anymore. It is amazing how quickly she is growing up. I realize all of a sudden she is going to be a big doggie. Little by little she is learning and everyday we feel so lucky to have her in our lives.

Here are some of my favorite things about her:
1) When Jason goes into the kitchen, she runs to peer over the baby gate to watch his every move.
2) Her tail wagging out of control when we get home.
3) Her little snorts as she is investigating where to find food and she SNORES.
4) She already has a love for wine (like her mommy and daddy). Whenever she goes outside, she immediately runs to our little grapevine and tries to eat all the grapes.
5) After running around like crazy at night, she finally settles down and snuggles with us on the couch to take a nap.

Speaking of #5, when I got home last Saturday night I fell asleep on the couch with Marley around midnight. I must have been sound asleep since I woke up again at 2AM and the room looked like a tornado had gone through, toilet paper everywhere and all I see is Marley and an empty Cliff bar wrapper. She must have woken up and ransacked by purse and a few other things around the house. I wondered where Jason had gone since when I went to sleep he was watching a football game. I found him asleep in our bedroom. This was a good lesson to learn on why she sleeps in her crate at night. That Little Rascal!

Kristin's Shower

Saturday was Kristin's baby shower and we all had such a good time helping her celebrate the upcoming arrival of her baby girl, Audrey. She got the cutest gifts and it was fun to be able to pick out some girlie clothes. The shower was a reminder of how lucky I am to have such wonderful friends from high school and it is amazing that we are now (10 years later) getting ready for babies to come along. It is going to be a fun filled year with all the new arrivals.

Let the Countdown Begin

I am getting really excited for Christmas this year. Only one day to go before the December countdown begins. Growing up we always got Advent Calendars to help countdown til Christmas. I always loved the ones with pictures and would wake up every morning in anticipation of what would be behind each window. I will admit...sometimes I did cheat a little and would peak ahead. I'm looking for one to buy this year to have at work (hopefully it will help me stay motivated to keep working).

Here is some history on the Advent Calendars, thought it was interesting:

The origin of the Advent Calendar can be traced back to the 19th. Century. The first styles came from the protestant area. So religious families made a chalk line for every day in December until Christmas Eve. The first known Advent Calendar which was made by handwork is from the year 1851.

Other early styles were the Adventclock or the Adventcandle - a candle for each of the 24 days until Christmas, like todays Advent wreath. So in religious families little pictures were hang up on the wall - one for each day in December. Another tradition was to paint chalk strokes on the door, one per day until Christmas Eve.

Welcome Home Mom and Dad

My parents have safely landed back in San Francisco after their 3-week adventure in China. I can't wait to see them and hear all their exciting stories. I can only wait to see all the stuff my mom brought back with her. Last year when they went to Germany she brought back enough presents to fit in an entire suitcase. We even got an old Pretzel that was the size of a large pie. Of course, it was a few days old and everyone was scared to eat it.

Wanted to say Welcome Home, we missed you and can't wait to see you soon.

A New Do

After having the same hairstyle for probably the last 10 years, I decided for a little change yesterday. I added some bangs! OK...they not too extreme, but they are definitely a different length than the rest of my hair.

I have my good friend, Heidi Hendricks to thank for my new hairstyle. She is amazing and the good news is she just started working part time in Walnut Creek at Mika Salon. I highly recommend her, so if you want to make an appointment here is the number: 925-939-6452. She works every other weekend at Mika since she still continues to work in Sacramento at another salon.

Tracy also got her hair done at the same time and we had a great time ordering pizza and sipping on some boxed wine. THANK YOU HEIDI! I love my new do and had such a fun time.

Thanksgiving At Our House

Since my parents were out of town, we offered to host Thanksgiving at our house. Jason's mom was sweet enough to come over bright and early and cook the turkey. I'm so thankful for her since I've never even attempted a turkey and felt that it would have been way too overwhelming. I have a hard enough time handling raw chicken, let alone a giant turkey. Jason's Grandma was also in town and was also a huge help in the kitchen.

We had a nice, relaxing day of hanging out, cooking, playing with Marley and Scott and holding Tyler. It was nice to keep it casual and the food turned out great.

Here are 2 new recipes that I tried and thought they turned out good (much better than last year's Brussel Sprouts gone bad).


Butternut Squash Gratin
*NOTE: To keep things much easier, I recommend using a large bag of frozen chopped spinach vs. fresh. It cuts down on a lot of time plus who can tell the difference. I think I only used 6 cups of spinach (which is plenty.)

Creamed Corn Casserole
This is similar to corn bread, but not as dense. Everyone really enjoyed this.

I always have luck finding recipes on www.bhg.com

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving

Wishing everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!

Hope your day is filled with wonderful food, family and fun. I have so much to be thankful for this year and continue to try and remind myself daily.

Although our family has had our trials, it has allowed me to take the time and really examine all that I've been blessed with. I've truly never been more grateful for all that I have, until this year, so I guess that is my answer to my question of "Why?". This Thanksgiving, I give Thanks for an amazing husband, family, friends, job, house and of course, pets.

As you cook away in your kitchen tomorrow, try and remember the main reason why we are all gathering and give thanks for all that you have been blessed with this holiday season.

Amber and Adam Visit SF

Last night we headed to the city to see Amber and Adam. They were excited to be visiting SF after moving this past year back to Ohio. We started off at Mamacita's in the Marina. If you have a chance to go (and don't mind waiting for a table), I highly recommend it. The food, cocktails and atmosphere are all great and the only problem with this place is you may eat too much.
http://www.mamacitasf.com/

After dinner we headed to a bar, but first had to make a pit stop at one of Amber and I's favorite pleasures. All-Star Donuts. Yes, we used to always end our nights with a trip to the donut shop and have quite a few stories about conversations with our favorite donut employees. I always go for the white with rainbow sprinkles. It's the best!

It was so much fun to hang out with everyone and be back in the city. I miss not having Amber close by. She is the kind of person that you feel lucky to have in your life. She promised she would be back soon and I can't wait to see her again.

Loving the Baby Bjorn

We got to babysit Tyler on Saturday for the day as Heidi was at a swimmeet and Danny was in Utah. We realized how much easier it was to have only one nephew at a time. He was such a good boy and we loved having the opportunity to spend some quality time with him.
My sister introduced us to the amazing invention, The Baby Bjorn. I've always seen this item on Baby Shower registries and never quite understood them. But let me tell you...they are a miracle if the baby likes them. Wow! It changed our babysitting experiences and even Jason gave it a try.
Paris and Claudia stopped by to visit with Tyler and were so happy to see him after following all of his progress on Heidi's blog.
He is growing up and just started smiling. We tried getting some pics of the smiling, but realized it is hard to estimate when he is going to do it. We were always about 10 seconds too late.

Weekend with the Pets

We had a lot of fun hanging out with Marley on Friday night and all her toys. Thank you Kelli for her new toys that include a stuffed animal duck and nyla bones. She LOVES them! She basically plays for about and hour and then sleeps for an hour. She is so funny and has such a great personality. She always wants to be by someone's side, which I've heard is very classic of a lab. We wake up every morning (sometimes at 5AM) and say to each other how happy we are to have her in our lives.

Enjoy some pics I took over the weekend. As you may or may not know, I'm obsessed with taking lots of pet pictures (probably have over 500 of my cats and they basically all look the same. Cats aren't really into posing cute for the camera.) Marley would love to hang out with Serena, but Serena has realized she is safe sitting at the top of her condo.

Important Cooking Lesson

I hosted cooking club at my house this last week. We always have such a good time and love trying new recipes.

I do have to admit. I made a rookie mistake with my shopping this week and learned an important lesson. Phyllo Dough (AKA Filo, Fillo) and Puff Pastry are not the same thing. They are actually quite different. We were planning to make Chicken in Phyllo and I accidentely bought Puff Pastry, thinking it was the same thing. Well our chicken ended up looking like GIANT hot pockets and were quite heavy. I think each one weighed 5 pounds. In addition, we made enough mashed potatoes for 30 people. We all got a good laugh out of our interesting looking chicken creations.

The best part about cooking club isn't the cooking, it is just being with everyone. It really doesn't matter if the food is good, it matters if your having a good time. It gives us a good excuse every month to get together with one another, have a few glasses of wine and catch up on all the latest. I look forward to it every month and hope it continues for years to come.