Yummm...

One amazingly beautiful day, Brian and I decided to take advantage of the nice weather and walk around one of our outdoor malls. (What could be better...family time and shopping!!) Come lunch time, we decided to take Ashley to Johnny Rockets, not only was it her first time...but mine as well!! The only reason why I am sharing this not-so-interesting story is because of our talented waitress! Who knew they provided self portraits made with ketchup!!

and Yes...while taking the initial picture, Ashley couldn't resist and had to taste her smile!

I have discovered how incredibly wonderful it is to have your child enter the world of "real" food! Not only do I not have to worry about always having baby food in the diaper bag...we can order off the kids menu!! Okay...so Brian has already "lectured" me on how this menu is for the KIDS...not the moms that want a smaller portion and lower price!! Is it really a crime to share Ashley's meal with her? I understand the "sharing" may be more on a 90/10 scale (90 being me ofcourse), but as long as Ashley eats her 10...?!?!

I know, I know...slap on the hand!

Am I the only mom out there that commits this crime? I've already convinced myself...no way!!

Off to a running start...

Happy 2010!! Has everyone kept to their New Years Resolutions so far?? I haven't decided what mine is yet, so since I never made one I can't be disappointed when it doesn't pull through, right?! :-)

Brian on the other hand set a goal this past September and accomplished it a week ago, when he ran a half marathon...that's 13.1 miles!!! CRAZY!! "They" say for your first time, and really any time, finishing under 2 hours and 30 minutes is good, he wanted to beat 2 hours 15 minutes...and finished in 2 hours 8 minutes!! I was able to go and watch him cross the finish line, I could not have been prouder!!

Here he comes...

and there he goes...Brian's friend, Jacob, they ran the entire way together
CONGRATS Jacob, Emery, Brian and Pat...all finished the PF Chang's 2010 half marathon! After a big run, who wouldn't want cupcakes?? I thought I was pretty creative..."Way To Go Brian" 12 letters...a dozen cupcakes, green for go, isn't that what all the hard work was for!!?? Okay, I admit it, I didn't run but I did enjoy a cupcake or two...one of my guilty pleasures! But this isn't about me... :-)
I would like to say Brian has inspired me to start running. I have good intentions, truly. I bought some REALLY cute purple running shorts...just haven't got to the actual running part yet.

I'll keep you posted!

Merry Christmas!

Well other than that entertaining trip to meet Santa, I think we had a pretty successful Christmas this year! It was a lot of fun being able to see Ashley get involved in opening her presents, and all the smiles and curious eyebrows as she discovered what was under the wrapping! We started by having the family over for dinner Christmas Eve, then spent most of Christmas Day with Grandma and Grandpa Gast at their house, along with Great Grandma and Grandpa Tucker, Uncle Chris and Aunt Julie. Thank you everyone for all the presents, hugs and love!

and then there was Saturday...what can I say...we both stayed in our pajamas all day!! I decided to make some cookies and let Ashley munch on some chocolate stars. We should have more days like this... I just heart this girl!! Have a very safe and Happy New Year everyone!!!