Sweet Life Ladner

Harrison Turns One...

2009-11-23T11:16:00.001-07:00

Harrison officially turned one on the 14th. It was a wonderful party filled with friends and family. The birthday boy thoroughly enjoyed himself. Here are some of the details...

I hand made all the flags in the backyard with fabric from JoAnns. Then I recycled baby jars, painted the lids, filled with Swedish Fish and made the label on the computer. I printed out the tags for favors, treats and sandwiches and then tied with ribbon. The row of pictures is Harrison from month one until now in chronological order...it was so fun to see his development from month to month.

And this was what it was all about...the birthday boy having a blast with his buddies.

It was a wonderful day. I kept thinking what I was doing a year ago...hour by hour.

Thank you to my wonderful photographer, Kaylie. She perfectly captured the day. {She is for hire and is awesome}.

The First of Many...

2009-06-24T23:23:00.008-07:00

This is way overdue since Father's Day was last Sunday, but my husband deserves credit for the role he serves as a father. He is amazing and since having a child, I have seen him grow in ways I never thought possible. He always takes Wednesday afternoons off to spend with Harrison, takes him to swim lessons, constantly tells him how special he is and how much he loves him, and he always comes to my rescue at 2 am when I'm at the breaking point with Mr. H.

He is honestly one of the best father's I've ever known and think that our children are/will be so lucky to have him. Harrison is infatuated with him and lights up like a star every single time J. enters the room. I love watching Harrison's face every evening when J. comes home from work. It's as if the best moment of his day is happening when he sees his dad...it's heartwarming.

Happy Father's Day sweet husband...you're the best kind there is.

Mother's Day.

2009-05-20T18:37:00.006-07:00

This year for my first Mother's Day, J. surprised me with a creative gem. He put the contents of this blog into a pdf file and sent it to Alphagraphics to have them make it into a book.

It chronicles the last year of our lives with details on my pregnancy, our anniversary and the birth of our son.

It was a magical, unexpected, amazing gift that I will treasure always.

Ladner Photos.

2009-05-01T13:03:00.006-07:00

Here are some family photos taken by the very talented Megan Papworth...

To see her blog, go here. I highly recommend her!

Big League.

2009-04-28T00:11:00.003-07:00

J. was so excited to take Harrison to his first Cubs game that was not just Spring Training. We went Monday night and I think J.'s dreams might be coming true, and Harrison will love baseball. He couldn't get enough of all the action.

He took a little nap for about 3 innings and then woke up happy as ever.

Baseball was so much more fun with Harrison.

I ♥ White Moulding.

2009-04-20T22:37:00.009-07:00

We had some trim/moulding work done back in July and just now got around to having it painted {recession!}. Here are some before and afters...

Office:

Dining Room:

Kitchen:

Master Bedroom:

I don't think you can really tell from the picture, but our master bedroom crown is 7 inches thick...I love it! I'm also in love with our new dining room. We use that top ledge for frames of various size and color.

It was almost worth having people in my house for 4 days to get it all done.

Happy Easter.

2009-04-12T22:41:00.001-07:00

Here is our own little "bunny" in that adorable hat my friend Marissa made for me. I could just eat him like a chocolate bunny!

Happy Easter from our family to yours.

New Beginnings.

2009-04-03T10:24:00.004-07:00

We've entered Rice Cereal territory and, as usual, Brooks is jealous. Harrison has taken quite nicely to it and now grabs the spoon as it approaches his mouth...he's such a Scorpio.

Together.

2009-03-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday, J. takes the afternoon off and spends it with Harrison. He calls it "Daddy Day" and it's time for them to bond, and time for me to get away.

I love watching them together and feel so grateful for such a wonderful man to father my son...I see how gentle J. is and the way Harrison adores him.

Bull In a China Shop...

2009-02-23T23:09:00.001-07:00

Brooks can be overbearing at times. I caught him snorting in Harrison's ear as I was folding laundry the other day.

Harrison's face says it all.

My Sweet Valentines.

2009-02-16T23:46:00.003-07:00

We had the best Valentine's Day ever this year. My sweet husband thought to take us all to the park and have a picnic. We sat on the lawn at the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall and ate sandwiches, drank Pelligrino, let Brooks roam and kissed our baby. It was perfect in every way.

Here's our little "heart breaker" wearing J's aviators.

Hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine's Day.

Cuddling.

2009-02-08T14:01:00.003-07:00

This weekend was spent cuddling with my baby, as he pulled my hair and sucked on my nose.

It couldn't have been more perfect.

Harrison's Playdate.

2009-01-23T11:56:00.003-07:00

I was lucky enough to join the most amazing parenting group, NCPG and have met some amazing moms, as well as, babies born within days of Harrison. Here are shots from our latest playgroup. Ironically, the majority of babies are boys and there was only one girl there that day. Some people said that it looks like the bachelorette...

Harrison's little face looks so funny in this last shot. As you can see in the first shot, he eventually got tired and leaned on Oliver, the little one next to him.

The Mission.

2009-01-19T21:03:00.006-07:00

There is this really cool old church in Old Town Scottsdale that I've admired for years. It used to be a part of the Catholic church a few blocks away, but now it's an amazing restaurant called The Mission.

We celebrated MLK day having lunch outside in the gorgeous 77 degree weather...sipping drinks and thinking of all the people surviving the snow this time of year.

I can't wait to go back for dinner when the whole place is dripping with candlelight everywhere, and I can try their signature margarita.

4th Biltmore Birthday.

2009-01-08T00:00:00.000-07:00

He may have a new little "buddy" around but we still wanted to uphold the tradition of making Brooks' birthday special. It happens to fall on New Years Eve, so we always take him to the Biltmore to walk around and get tons of attention from shoppers. He usually gets at least 5 visitors who want to talk to us about french bulldogs...he loves it. We usually take him to the Three Dog Bakery for a birthday treat, but they apparently closed {darn economy!}.

I'm not quite sure how this picture was taken, but there I am feeding Harrison while J. handles crazy Brooks. Even with our new beautiful baby, we love love love our Brooks. Especially since he's handled the transition like a true gentleman, and continues to show only love and concern for the new addition. It was such a beautiful way to spend New Years Eve...

All You Need is Love...

2009-01-04T15:19:00.009-07:00

The Beatles said it best...

Life now has so much more purpose.

Christmas at our House.

2008-12-31T00:00:00.003-07:00

We woke up and opened gifts...even Brooks got a new toy. Then I enjoyed holding my favorite present by the fire.

Soon, family came over and we all exchanged gifts together while we watched the rain outside the front window.

Everyone wanted to hold Harrison all day long. It was sweet and a little exhausting {for him!}.

Here are my twin Scorpios in their sweater vests. Look at this close up of Harrison...I can't get enough of that little face!!!

It was such a nice, stress free Holiday. All that I care about was under one roof, and everyone was as delighted as me to have Harrison with us this Christmas.

I had just dressed him and combed his hair...somehow he looks a little like an elf in this shot...an adorable elf, though, with great lips.

Merry Christmas.

2008-12-24T00:00:00.001-07:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours...may Santa be as good to you as he's been to us.

Oh Christmas Tree...

2008-12-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

We braved the cold this weekend and picked out our Christmas tree. Well, actually Harrison and I got cold, so we sat in the car while J. picked out the perfect tree on his own.

Then we came home and introduced Harrison to the wonderful smell of pine needles...

Now we have the most perfect tree with beautiful white lights and two ornaments. Is it even worth it to decorate it at this point?!?

My husband says yes...which is why this is what we'll be doing tonight instead of relaxing.

Snuggling...

2008-12-12T00:00:00.001-07:00

I know I'm biased, but my new favorite thing in the world is to snuggle with this amazing little being.

I could smell him for hours...

Picture Day.

2008-12-08T00:37:00.005-07:00

We miraculously got a family picture this weekend by stacking books up on a step stool in the backyard, with the camera on timer, for our Christmas cards. Now, I just hope we can get sent out in a timely manner.

Announcement.

2008-12-05T11:39:00.009-07:00

Here is the announcement we sent out for Harrison's birth. We ordered them from tinyprints and were so happy with how they came out. Also, included with announcement was an explanation of how we came up with his name...

We always liked the name Harrison, but when we knew we were
having a baby, I ran across this quote in a Serena & Lily catalog…

Harrison defines honor. He’s the older brother that
will save the day and never make a big deal out of it, or even
bring it up again. Harrison’s principled without being arrogant.
This strength will take him far.

We just knew that if we had a son that this was his name. Then
when just 13 weeks pregnant we were told that he had a 1 in 19
chance of having down syndrome. We opened our hearts to
whatever fate had in store, but found out at 18 weeks that he was
completely healthy in all areas. St. Jude is the Patron Saint of All
Things Impossible, therefore it was only fitting that his middle
name be Jude.

We can't wait to see who this little magic bundle of love becomes...

In Love...

2008-11-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

You have no idea how many times a day we are kissing these little lips...

There is so much to be grateful for.

November.

2008-11-03T01:28:00.005-07:00

Now that's it's November, my son is officially having his birthday this month just like his dad {J's is the 17th}. I can't believe it's November and feel like it was just yesterday that it was March, and I called J. at a spring training game to tell him that I was pregnant. He got so excited that he told the strangers sitting next to him, rode his bicycle all the way home and took me out to lunch to celebrate.

It's amazing that this 9 month journey is about to end, and a new one is about to begin...

The Official Countdown...

2008-10-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

36 weeks

Ok...I'm officially starting to panic. I'm weeks away from having this baby and becoming a mother for the first time. I don't know what to expect and can hardly sleep thinking of all the things I want to do before he arrives. I know there will be aspects that are so wonderful and fulfilling, as well as those that are overwhelming and challenging. The anticipation of it all is killing me.

Any mothers reading this out there, please give me your best motherly advice for taking care of a newborn. I've read the books and taken classes, but sometimes the best advice is mother to mother.

I will really appreciate it.

3 Years Ago Today...

2008-10-22T00:00:00.005-07:00

We knelt at the alter,

then said our vows,

happily walked down the aisle together,

posed with our beautiful friends and family,

left the church together,

arrived at our reception on bicycles,

where every detail was perfect.

Then we cuddled our little Brooks,

we took some time to hang out on a swing,

then enjoyed the amazing details as the darkness came in,

and we dined by thousands of twinkling lights in the trees.

The whole day was magic...

...and I still smile every time I think of it.

Baby Shower Extraordinaire.

2008-10-13T00:00:00.004-07:00

My baby shower was such a special day with my favorite people around me. J even stuck around in the beginning of the day...

{I feel huge and can't wait to have a normal stomach again!}

The tables were set so beautifully with adorable Curious George buckets filled with gorgeous sunflowers .

The event took place on the front porch of the hostess' house and the weather was perfect. Some people started to get cold with the breeze, but with my hormones, it was nothing short of refreshing.

The food and dessert were wonderful. I even had my first bite of sugar since August with half a petite four...it was heaven.

I felt like a queen opening my gifts while sitting in a rocking chair and having my little assistants bring me gifts and write down who gave me what for everything.

This is my sweet little photographer...thank you Kaylie!

I'm sad that the day is over, but I can't wait to use all my goodies with my new baby boy, and read him all the fun children's books I received.

Baby's Nursery.

2008-09-29T00:00:00.006-07:00

We spent our Saturday putting some final touches on the nursery before our little bundle arrives. This chair is the most comfortable chair I've ever sat in...which is good because I'm sure I'll be spending many nights sitting here.

We had a lot of trim work done this summer {crown molding, trim around closets and doors} but haven't had it painted yet, so that is why you see unpainted wood all over the room.

The crib is old fashioned spindles, with distressed white painted wood and bedding from House inc. and Shabby Chic.

Above the crib hangs various dog paintings that I found out and about. I love them so much...and J wants them for his office.

A little table in the corner holds a lamp, ipod docking station, clock and thymes diffuser. Meanwhile, an amazing Sugarboo frame hangs above...courtesy of Laura's furniture company. Brooks also has a bed next to the crib, so he doesn't feel left out.

Here is the antique dresser and changing table with mirror. There is also a green striped hamper next to it from Pottery Barn Kids.

Lastly, here is a little tea cart that I've turned into diaper and lotion central with his monogram hanging above. I bought the H and J from paper source and the L is from JoAnns, which I painted.

I can't tell you how this room makes me feel. I just walk in there and feel calm and happy. I can't wait to meet this little person who will occupy it.

32 weeks and counting...

2008-09-24T10:41:00.004-07:00

32 weeks

It's getting closer and closer now and I'm scurrying around trying to take care of all kinds of baby/house projects. I went to the doctor last week, at 31 weeks, and she measured me at 34 weeks {which completely freaked me out}. Luckily I had an ultrasound Monday which showed I was really only 1 week ahead of schedule. This little guy already weighs 4 1/4 pounds {did I ever mention that my dad was a linebacker for ASU football?} and I might be looking at a good size baby by the time this is all said and done. He was already in perfect position and everything looked exactly as it should. J and I can't believe we are actually going to meet him soon! The anticipation is so terrifying and exciting.

As much as I love feeling his daily kicks, movements and flutters...I'm excited to remember what it's like to bend over effortlessly.

Growing, Stretching, Uncomfortable...

2008-08-22T00:00:00.007-07:00

27 weeks

I can't believe how big I am getting {and feeling}! I didn't really realize it until I looked at this picture. It's always different to see yourself from afar. Looking back at weeks 18 and 25, I'm in awe of how I've grown so far. I can't even imagine myself at 38 weeks along. This week has brought about some challenges in pregnancy...some adjustments need to be made and I'm learning to be uncomfortable while doing normal activities. I've been a little overwhelmed, but I've learned that things have a way of working out for the best. The changes and things I need to pay special attention to in this pregnancy will ultimately be a blessing. All of this coupled with the fact that I'm about to be a mom for the first time, can bring me to tears easily.

J. has been a saint dealing with me lately {very moody} and deserves a best husband award for volunteering to sit in the dr's office for 3 1/2 hours with me on Monday, making dinner last night and cleaning up the dishes and kitchen every night this week.

I am continuously grateful for this pregnancy and all that it brings to my life. I am so excited to meet my first born in November. I know that time will start flying by now...and soon I'll be blogging about how I no longer sleep.

Stretching.

2008-08-08T00:00:00.012-07:00

25 weeks

So, the other day I noticed a few stretch marks on my stomach. At first I felt freaked out and then I realized that this is a small price to pay for having this amazing experience of carrying a little human being. I've been feeling a little stressed lately about being a mom for the first time, bringing him home and having my life change forever. I am so nervous I'll mess up and do all the things I said I'd never do. I don't want him to know how panicked I am and start reacting to that. I am also very excited to meet him and see who God has brought into my life. So far, he and I have been very connected throughout my pregnancy, and everything I have felt he's saying to me has been true.

I can't believe that one day he'll be a man on this earth with opinions, ideas, emotions and {hopefully} good smelling cologne. I wonder if he'll want to travel and see the world and I wonder how many times he'll have his heart broken. I lay away at night thinking about all these things and feel overwhelmed. I can't believe that I get to experience all this with a gift from God...that J. and I created together. So far I predict that he's going to have an amazing sense of humor, long eyelashes, be very compassionate, care about his clothes and have a steady, even keeled personality. Three more months until I get to meet him...

Kicks For Everyone!

2008-07-30T12:00:00.004-07:00

I'm officially not the only one feeling these little kicks inside my belly. J. was finally able to feel it on my stomach last night. He has been telling me how lucky I am that I get to feel it and that he can't wait until he can too. He tried again last night and exclaimed, "I felt that! Did he just kick?!?" to which I replied, "Yes!" and then he did it again and again and again for his dear ole' dad...what a sweet baby. Then in typical J. fashion, he looked up at the ceiling and said out loud "on July 29, 2008, I felt my son kick for the first time..." He is so sentimental, which is exactly why I love him and can't wait to see him shine as a father.

Little Feet...

2008-07-25T00:00:00.006-07:00

Here is the latest picture of the little legs and feet that are kicking inside me. We had another ultrasound yesterday, so that they could take a long and detailed look at his heart, and the dr. concluded that it was "perfect and beautiful". It was so nice to be able to see how much he's grown in a month and to see his little feet and toes. J. and I are so excited to meet him, and hold and cuddle him. I can't wait to see who he looks like!

Feeling Movement...

2008-07-10T00:00:00.001-07:00

I'm officially feeling movement inside my belly. At first I wasn't quite sure what those sensations were but now I am noticing that it happens mostly when I sit down to relax or go to sleep. It's becoming a very wonderful and reassuring sensation that I look forward to daily. J. is so jealous that he can't feel it yet, too. I wonder if this baby knows how much he is loved already...

The Most Amazing News On a Tuesday...

2008-06-25T00:00:00.002-07:00

Yesterday we had our ultrasound and found out that we are having a baby boy! We are beyond excited and are looking forward to having an older brother for all those who will follow in the coming years.

It's amazing to see his little hand in front of his face. {The lumpiness is from the imaging...he doesn't have bumps all over his cheeks}.

J. and I are two happy souls this week.

Growing Belly...

2008-06-16T11:30:00.004-07:00

Almost 18 weeks

There has been a few requests from out of town friends to see my ever growing belly so....voila! {Plus, J. got on me this weekend about letting the "family blog" go a little stale.} I am almost 18 weeks, so on the 24th we go to find out the sex of this little bean growing inside me. I am so excited to see if my prediction {pretty much from conception} of the gender is correct. Stay tuned!

Our Baby...

2008-05-16T00:15:00.003-07:00

We had another ultrasound yesterday and I was so excited find out the gender, but as you can see from the pictures, this little baby either lounged on it's back or had it's back to us and wouldn't show us the "goods". I tried coughing really hard, going to the bathroom and laying on my side to get him/her to turn around....no luck. J muttered under his breath, "...stubborn just like it's mother."

It's was still wonderful to watch our baby move it's arms, legs and push itself from one side of the womb to the next.

The Start of a New Adventure...

2008-05-09T00:00:00.001-07:00

J and I are so excited to be starting a family. It was so much fun telling our close friends and family that we were expecting. Here is the first picture of our new Baby Ladner. I told J that I was pregnant while he was at a Spring Training game in March; he was so excited he started crying and rode all the way home on his beach cruiser to take me to lunch to celebrate. He hasn't stopped smiling since...

I had an ultrasound at 6 weeks and we were able to see the tiny bundle of cells and hear the heartbeat. It was a surreal experience. Since this picture, we were able to hear the heartbeat again at 10 weeks at our Dr's office. Hearing that little heartbeat again made me fall even deeper in love. J and I thank God every night for this assignment, and promise to hold up our end of the bargain.

Our next ultrasound is May 15th.

On the Porch.

2008-05-02T00:00:00.004-07:00

The columns in the front of our house, framing our little front porch, are finally done! J.'s brother, Chris, did a spectacular job. Here is the before and after....

Before: Thin, plain straight columns.

After: Thicker columns with raised panels at bottom and crown at the top.

The best part is that the lip on the bottom panel is just the right size to set down a glass of iced tea...

A Night Out...

2008-04-28T11:32:00.001-07:00

We had the best night out on Saturday night. We went out to dinner at Postino, close by our house, and sat outside under the strung lights, candles and mature landscape. We started with their famous bruschetta before dinner and munched, had deep talks, laughed and ended up sitting their eating for 2 hours. It was so beautiful outside...the weather was perfect. We ended up running into our next door neighbors while there and chatted with them for a bit as well. We finished with coffee and gelato and realized how lucky and blessed we are to have such special moments in our lives.

Then we stopped at blockbuster to rent Juno and watched it for the second time. I cried harder the 2nd time around...

{I realize I've been slightly neglecting this side of my blog, but I have other plans for its contents in the near future...stay tuned!}

New Addition to Chez Ladner.

2008-03-31T10:50:00.004-07:00

We splurged this weekend at one of our favorite stores, the Willows, on a new bench seat for our front. We've been eyeing it for a few weekends and finally just decided to get it on Saturday. I envision relaxing with a glass of lemon water talking to the neighbors and curled up with future little ones reading books.

For now, Brooks gets to enjoy it on J's lap while being fed ice cubes...lucky, lucky dog.

The Perfect Easter.

2008-03-24T11:05:00.001-07:00

Easter was wonderful this year...relaxing, fun, casual and celebratory. We had everyone over for brunch at our house and our nephew, Diego, had a little Easter egg hunt in the backyard.

Here he is trying to get an egg before Brooks does...while J. oversees and sips his coffee.

Some of the eggs had secret messages in them. Here we are at the end of the hunt...

There was a game of football...

...but that was abandoned when they got too hot and jumped in the pool.

The water was freezing but they still loved it!

Brooks was naughty, so he was tied up in the kitchen most of the day.

It was the perfect day...

Saturday at the Ballpark.

2008-03-08T18:19:00.008-07:00

J. loves baseball...it's one of his passions in this life...and especially when it involves the Chicago Cubs. I am not much of a sports person, period, but I agreed to accompany him to a Cubs spring training game. He goes to multiple games every year, but I never go with him. Today we sat on the grass with a big white blanket and ate soft pretzels while we watched the game. It was nice to be out in the sun, put my feet in the grass and just relax. Plus, J. was so happy that I went with him, he got a little emotional when thanking me for coming. He is so easy to please....how can I not pretend to enjoy baseball?

{Pictures are from my camera phone which is why they aren't very clear.}

One Of The Many Reasons I Love J...

2008-03-06T11:57:00.002-07:00

Last night J. had dinner with clients at an expensive steakhouse, and mentioned that he would be home around 8:30pm. That meant I was on my own for dinner, so I took the easy route and microwaved a Lean Cuisine. When he got home, I asked him what he ate so I could eat vicariously through him. He finished the list of food with cheesecake and I looked at him with a jealous glare. To which he said, "I brought home a little slice and its in the fridge for you".

Sometimes it takes the smallest gesture to make me happy. Luckily he knows me very well.

Life Moments.

2008-02-26T09:55:00.004-07:00

These are the moments that make life precious...

Morning Coffee...

2008-02-20T10:38:00.007-07:00

Brooks just enjoying another weekend morning with his coffee and New York Times....

Hanging Around the House...

2008-02-18T09:28:00.007-07:00

After I watched last monday's Oprah, where Nate builds a family their dream home, I decided to enlarge some photos that I absolutely love for around the house. The first one I did was this amazing photo of J. and Brooks at the Beach. It makes me feel calm, serene and happy.

{I blew it up to a 16x20 on Kodak}

Sweetest Valentine.

2008-02-14T11:17:00.005-07:00

Yesterday J. disappeared into the guest room for quite some time and when he came out, I asked him what he was up to. He told me that it was something for Valentine's Day. I thought he was wrapping a gift...which was sweet...but actually what he was doing was so much better than any gift he could've bought me. He handmade this beautiful Valentine...with cut out hearts and everything! I felt like the luckiest girl in class.

As those of you who know me personally know {and as many who don't have probably figured out} I am a very deep, sentimental person. This card represents an affection and adoration for me, that speaks to my heart the way only J. can. I think it is perfect in every way imaginable and it brought tears to my eyes immediately. I am going to laminate it and have it around all year long...

{Surprise someone with a handmade Valentine today!}

Real Love.

2008-02-12T15:30:00.008-07:00

This is J.'s second day home sick...it's the first time he's stayed home sick from work in 9 years. He has a sore throat and headache, that started a few nights ago, and said he just couldn't go to work. For the past few days, I've been warming up soup, handing out advil, laying in bed talking, bringing him water & tea and just being available. I suppose this is the real version of love, that is more appropriate for this recent valentine holiday...I'll take it any day over the superficial.

{Funny side note: J. is such a germaphobe and when he woke up yesterday, he said to me, "I knew I shouldn't have used that computer at FedEx...the mouse was disgusting". He had to print something before he mailed it Monday, and used Fed Ex's public computer. I told him that it was probably already in his system and that it wasn't the Fed Ex computer...I get such a kick out of the way he thinks.}

Nice Weather.

2008-02-11T13:47:00.000-07:00

It's officially becoming beautiful outside when Brooks taps at the back door with his paw, walks directly outside to his bed...and plops. Here he is sun bathing...

This is his response when I ask him if he wants to "go to starbucks"???

Head tilts mean yes...he loves car rides.

What I Loved About This Weekend...

2008-02-10T19:10:00.000-07:00

Soon I'll be joining him, in the empty Adirondack chair, with a diet soda and Real Simple magazine...

Reminiscing...

2008-02-08T01:08:00.000-07:00

This picture hangs on our magnetic board in the hallway, and every time I pass it...it makes me smile. J. and I were roughly 25 years old and a friend had just had a baby girl. We went over to visit her and J. was a nervous wreck holding a newborn...I wasn't completely comfortable myself. The picture totally depicts how we were feeling, and it makes me laugh to think how far we've come.

Yesterday, at 32 years old, we went to the hospital to visit a friend's new baby, and J. couldn't wait to hold her and I didn't want to give her up...

Raindrops.

2008-02-05T00:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday in between pouring rain, I passed by our french doors and noticed this sweet little bunny helping himself to a snack of leaves on a branch.

Then Brooks realized I was taking pictures

of another furry creature...

and began barking in a jealous rage.

I love rainy days.

Why I Love J. Today...

2008-02-03T14:00:00.000-07:00

We went out to breakfast this morning, and before we left the house I didn't think it was that cold out, so I just threw on my black flats with jeans. Then while sitting at La Grande having breakfast, only two tables away from an open door, I said (with arms crossed and shivering), "I really wish I would've worn socks today". J then looked up from reading the paper and said, "You can have mine. I'll give them to you and I'll wear my loafers without socks." I did not accept, but what a doll. That's why I love J. today...

V-Day Treats.

2008-01-31T01:27:00.000-07:00

Every night after dinner is over, J. makes himself a cup of tea while he sits on his laptop or reads. I think I am going to make the ritual a little more fun in February by stealing this idea from Martha. I'm going to replace the usual tea bag tags with little red hearts that have various valentine wishes for him. This is the kind of thing that makes him happy...

Fashion Flashback.

2008-01-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

This is too funny...while perusing J.crew today, I saw a sweater that looks just like the one J. was wearing in the mother's day Polaroid below. Fashion is completely cyclical...

Fun with Old Photos...

2008-01-28T13:20:00.001-07:00

{J. with his mom and siblings...he's the middle child.}

I came up with this idea of incorporating old photos of J. and I, as well as our families, into our home's photos. I love the concept of nodding to the past of people, who contributed to who we are today. This weekend, I went through J's childhood photo album and found some precious photos of him and his siblings. I then scanned them into our computer, uploaded them to snapfish and ordered fresh prints for framing. Here is another favorite...

J. made this for Mothers Day when he was in Kindergarten. It's construction paper with a Polaroid picture (remember those??) and then he stamped the inside with various paints and a sponge.

Keri, wouldn't you love having this sweet little boy in your class???

Life is in the Details...

2008-01-25T14:18:00.001-07:00

Sometimes, it's the little things that make a marriage flourish...exchanging love notes is a great way to start the weekend :)

Happy Friday!

{P.S. You can see by our notes how different we operate...}

Love Letter to J...

2008-01-24T11:41:00.001-07:00

I have a really great husband...sometimes we differ in opinion on how one should handle things, but when the chips are down...I have a really great husband. Since I've been under the weather, J. has been an amazing caretaker, and I want to take this opportunity to let him know how much I appreciate him....

He hates being trapped inside for days at a time, but he sacrificed, and was available for me this weekend. He turned up the heat, filled the water in my vaporizer, periodically came to check on me and ask if I wanted tea...and he even cleaned my closet while I lay in bed and watched....he insisted. He asked me Sunday night, "If you could have any meal, from any restaurant, casual or fancy, what would it be and I'll go pick it up for you..." {We had sushi from Kona Grill that he went and picked up...such a treat!}

On Monday, he had the day off, and I told him that he should get out of the house and do something fun, so he went for a bike ride into Old Town, by the Waterfront. I was so jealous that he was able to be outside and enjoy the beautiful day, while I watched daytime TV and ate cough drops. After a few hours of him being away...I started to get lonely, so I called him and told him. He immediately jumped on his bike and came home....then went to the grocery store, then had to go back because the veggies were bad, then went to another grocery store to buy what the other store didn't have. I'm not the easiest patient and he laughs and shakes his head at some of my requests...but he always pulls through and does it with love.

He is such an amazing person, who makes this planet a little sweeter for having him on it. I thank God everyday for such a beautiful human to spend my life with....

I love you J...thanks for helping me get better.

Summer Planning...

2008-01-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

I am so excited...J. and I started planning our Summer Beach trip last night. We stay at this adorable place called Arabella Laguna in Laguna Beach, and just relax in the cottage feel of this quaint town. It's only a block from the beach, so we just walk down everyday and enjoy the fresh ocean air. It consists of 6 little apartment type cottages and a grassy area in the middle where kids and pets can play. One of the best parts, is that they allow dogs so our little Brooks gets to make the trip with us. Laguna Beach is the most dog friendly place I've ever been in my life! We bring Brooks with us to every meal, and people constantly stop to talk to you about your pet. We meet so many wonderful people everywhere we go...

Last year we met some neat families staying at the cottages, that ironically lived on the other side of Indian School road from us, and have since seen them a few times around town. Their kids fell in love with Brooks, as he did with them, and one of the moms just told us that they got an english bulldog puppy, named Gordy. Now, Brooks will have one of his own kind to play with...we are all excited for our summer getaway.

It's a Zoo...

2008-01-17T14:02:00.001-07:00

Now, not only do we have bunnies in the backyard, the unmentionable rodents running around, cats up in our trees, and yesterday I actually saw a woodpecker working away in our grapefruit tree, we now have a large reptile taking up residence in our oleander bushes. I first noticed him Monday as I was pulling out of the driveway, and he has made a reappearance everyday since. He likes to sun himself between around 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. I am actually getting used to him and, being the avid animal lover that I am, look forward to seeing him lounging as I pull in and out of the driveway. I guess it's time to name him...

Making Me Proud...

2008-01-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

Today J. finished the Rock n' Roll 1/2 marathon (13 miles) in 1 hour & 57 min. He only started training for this about 3 weeks ago, and ran 9 miles a few weekends ago to prepare. He made me so proud today....especially because I am not a runner, and in Junior High PE Keri and I would "run" the mile in 12 minutes.

When we were leaving, there were still people finishing the race, and I said, "If I did this, I would be the last one in" and J. said, "They cut you off at 4 hours, so if you were still out there, they come pick you up" and I said, "Oh, perfect....I'd get a ride in". He just laughed and shook his head. We are so different...which is partly why I am in awe of his ability to put his mind to something, and accomplish it with such ease. He made me a proud wife today.

Earning Our Wings...

2008-01-11T16:44:00.000-07:00

J. and I have had house guests since Dec. 18th, and although we love, love, love them dearly....its starting to take its toll. You never realize how nice it is to have your little dwelling to yourselves, until there are two other people taking up part of the space. We have cleaned up after Claire's cooking almost everyday, sacrificed our own heat tolerance - since Papa and Claire are always cold, & I've broken down in tears on multiple occasions...just needing some solitude. The end is almost near, and I know I'll miss them when their gone, but I don't know if I can ever have house guests this long again...

Chez Ladner.

2008-01-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

It seems there is a blog land myth that every one's lives are in perfect order and squeaky clean, because their posts are handpicked as cute and quaint.

Although I live among these lovely details...

Vintage chandelier hangs above bed in bedroom, with an old oil painting of Paris on wall.

Chair I had recovered in Shabby Chic Linen a few years ago...one of my favs.

Architectural salvaged corbels adorn entry into kitchen.

Glass cloche sits over a mercury glass bird and sparkling star.

Old French wine bottle dryer conveniently holds our coffee mugs.

I also, regularly, live like this...

Pile of magazines and books that sit right next to my side of bed.

Pile of laundry that has taken up permanent residence on the chair in our bedroom...drives J. nuts!

Christmas decorations still sitting around in boxes, waiting patiently to be put away.

Boxes for above christmas decorations that go up in attic.

I am a self proclaimed...organizing/cleaning slacker. I married a neat freak, and some of our arguments could have been taped for reality show entertainment. My personality is much more artsy, laid back and casual. He, on the other hand, is linear, particular and orderly....makes for an interesting combination.

So, there you have it...the secrets behind my pretty posts is that there is probably a pile lingering right around the corner. J. tells me that I live in "piles of denial" and claims that the piles make him feel like he can't breathe. I perpetually work on my organizational skills, and living with J. has helped me hone in on them slightly, but I'll never be like Martha or Monica from Friends. This is the real Chez Ladner, and please always call before you stop by...I might need to throw a pile into a closet.

Birthday Fun on New Years Eve.

2008-01-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

Brooks' birthday is December 31st and every year we take him to the Biltmore to walk around and get a treat at the Three Dog Bakery. J., Papa, Claire and I all took a trip to celebrate Brooks' 3rd year on this lovely planet.

Here he sharing a treat with a new little friend he met while sniffing around the store....

Here is everyone sitting outside of Saks Fifth Avenue, where Brooks got tons of attention from kids and prospective French Bulldog owners alike. Papa looks like the Terminator...

Here I am trying to get a shot with him by the tree...he looks terrified.

Happy Birthday Brooks & Happy New Year to All...2008 will be magical.

Christmas Highlights.

2007-12-30T23:01:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. We enjoyed having all our family around us, and felt so blessed to be able to spend time with each other. Here are some highlights....

Nephews ripping into their new toys....

Treats for everyone to enjoy...

The remains from a lovely dinner...

My homemade gifts for family and friends....

The Grinch....aka: Papa

Brooks finally sleeping after a whirlwind day...

J. and I finally cuddling together on the couch, after hosting a long, but fun Christmas...

Merry Christmas.

2007-12-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas...start thinking about your dreams and wishes for 2008....

Sugarboo Arrival...

2007-12-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

Remember this post? Well, it's finally here! J. came home one day last week and surprised me with a beautifully wrapped Sugarboo frame, that finally arrived...we ordered it for our anniversary back in October! We found a permanent home for it right away, and love gazing at it while we relax on the couch. Now, I am just waiting for the sepia photo options to come from snapfish. We still have two stangers hanging on the wall...

Christmas Maison.

2007-12-10T21:11:00.001-07:00

After Laura showed her beautiful home at x-mas, and J. put his blood, sweat and tears into the lights, I thought I'd show what our house looks like this time of year.

Here is our tree with my little Brooks underneath it. This tree looked so much smaller in the lot...we brought it home and it's huge in our living room....oh well, it's kinda nice. I am considering an artificial for next years tree...so much easier!

And our buffet in the entry is a little dressed up....with the 'domestic bliss' sign I bought myself for my last birthday. I love this goofy little snowman.

Joy and peace to all...

and kisses under the mistletoe.

Party Re-cap.

2007-12-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

It was pouring rain and the event was up at the Four Seasons Resort, which is like taking a road trip from our house. I ended up pulling together my outfit before we left, and came up with the above skirt, tights, black patent mary janes, black v-neck sweater and black satin trench coat. It was a huge ballroom full of strangers and then casino games (yeck!). I wasn't feeling that great about myself last night...especially when I'm in a room with so many perfectly fit and beautiful women. Plus, I always get down on myself that I'm not better at just starting conversations with strangers, at these events....it's just not me.

My sweet husband was kind enough to play a few games and then suggest we make our exit. As we were leaving he said to me, "you were the most beautiful women in the room tonight" to which I laughed and said, "yeah...right...maybe to you" and then he said "I'm the only one who matters". Which made me think....he's right....

P.S. J. was by far the best looking man in the room....I was so proud to be his wife.

Party Time.

2007-12-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

Tonight is J's company x-mas party....another casino night (yeck). I hate standing around, after making small talk all through dinner with stangers (introverts hate this, by the way), while J. plays fake blackjack. My outfit is still undecided, which is causing slight stress as it gets closer to 6:00 pm. The invitation said "semi-formal", which is totally throwing me since last year it said "holiday casual". I wish I could snap my fingers and go looking like this:

Andy and Kate Spade

She always looks so cute! When I worked at Kate Spade, I met Kate a few times and she is just as adorable and sweet in person....if not more. Also, I don't know how you feel about Andy, but he is one of those people that you get a totally incredible vibe about when you meet him in person. He has a certain je ne sais quoi (something unexplainable). He is so stylish, funny and kind....we all had crushes on him for weeks!

Wish me luck at the party...

This is on my computer screen....

2007-12-06T13:51:00.000-07:00

It reminds me of when J. and I went to Paris, and ate macaroons at Laduree. I felt like I had stepped into the movie, Marie Antionette, which I later found out was the inspiration for the set of the movie.

It also, reminds me that dogs are everywhere. They are extremely welcome to sit at the tables and dine with the patrons. Walking by, I saw this little French Bulldog waiting patiently for his owner to return from the toilet. I thought I'd died and gone to heaven...

Why can't Phoenix be like Paris???

Monday in Real Life.

2007-12-03T23:20:00.000-07:00

Just to make things fun on a Monday, J. and I decided to go see a movie this evening. We saw 'Dan in Real Life'...I know it's been out for a while but we don't see movies as often as we used to. It was such a good Monday pick me up...funny, sweet and uplifting. The main theme at the end is that you can't plan your life, you can only plan to be surprised. This is so true and proves itself over and over in life. Watch the adorable trailer here. What will you do this week "shake up" the routine?

Bon Voyage Brunch.

2007-12-01T21:19:00.001-07:00

Max at 3 months...adorable!

Today we had a wonderful brunch at Bloom with our friends, Brook and Marissa. They are leaving next week, with 10 month old Max, to start their new adventure in France, where Brook will be going to business school for a year. We had a lovely time chatting, crying and laughing...on a rainy Saturday morning. We know this is going to be an exciting adventure for them, and we hope to make it over in the Spring to visit. Bon Voyage Rosenbaums...we will miss you dearly.

Friday Motivation.

2007-11-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

The other day I shared with J. that, for some reason, I was not motivated to get out all the x-mas decorations and start the process. He jokingly asked me, "what is wrong with you?!!?" since this is so unlike me. I usually jump at the task as soon as it's appropriate. He then told me that Friday (today) he would come home from work and we'd do it together...sort of make a 'night' of it. Then today, he came home from work and surprised me with this beautiful mercury glass bell.

He said he thought it might inspire me to get into decorating, since it looked like something I'd like. He didn't know that I saw this, a few weeks ago, and pondered getting it. What a guy!

P.S. Since it has rained all day and we are both being lazy...decorations have still not gone up. Oh well...there's always tomorrow.

Sugarboo Patience.

2007-11-29T12:59:00.001-07:00

First Keri got one for Mother's Day, then Suzanne got one for her new house....now I'm still waiting for mine. We ordered this Sugarboo designs frame for our anniversary and it's been over 6 weeks! I am dying to get it and put it up where I think it's going to go. I'll keep you posted...

Lovely Surprises Part Deux.

2007-11-27T12:32:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband always makes the coffee in the morning. Well actually he makes espresso, and then leaves it for me in the refridgerator so that I can make my own latte when I am ready. Well, this morning I opened the fridge to find this...

Unfortunately, our camera is the worst when it comes to close ups. The notes reads, "I wish you a bright beautiful day, filled with sunshine. I love (with heart) you my love, J."

What a wonderful way to start the day...and so simple. What can you do as a lovely surprise today?

Lovely Surprises.

2007-11-26T12:53:00.001-07:00

I sat down at the computer last night and found this lovely surprise waiting for me...

J. had cut out a heart from our kitchen notepad

and wrote this sweet note.

I never get tired of these little things that say he cares...

Wintertime and Zoolights.

2007-11-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

It finally feels like Winter here in Arizona! The past few days have been cool during the day, and just plain cold at night. J. and I went to dinner and Zoolights with my mom, Steve, his daughter, son-in-law and his two grandkids - Jackson and Carter. It was so nice to wear coats, sip hot chocolate and hear Christmas music with lights everywhere...I wait all year for this feeling. I'm advocating for a new camera, since ours is older and not that great at photos, but here is what we were able to get.

Here we are...

J. was dressed so nice, he looked my own J.crew model!

This was a giant bunny all decked out in lights

in the middle of snow.

Beautiful dancing tree lights that flicker to music.

There was the most amazing full moon out tonight.

We caught a glimpse through a lighted tree.

Then we danced by the light of the moon....

(really we did in the middle of the zoo!)

J.'s Birthday

2007-11-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

My husband turned 32 over the weekend, and claims that it was his favorite birthday ever. He allowed the day to take him where it might, instead of planning it all out to the last detail (which he tends to do.) Here is a highlight from his special day...

We went to the park and wrote birthday wishes on balloons for J.

Here he is reading them before we send them off.

There they go...

The boys took a quick break from football for a picture...

Then back to the game on a beautiful afternoon.

J. later told me it was his best birthday, that he can remember, and that there is something to be learned from not planning everything...what a gift.