The Jackman Family of Four

A new year... A new me!!

2011-01-08T07:23:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year all. I'mmmmm Baaaaaaaack. I love New Years. It gives me a clean slate to start fresh. I feel renewed. I feel like taking on the world. Actually by the world I mean the parts of me I want changed. There are a lot!!! And I'm going to start at the top of my list and work down and see how far I get. This blog is going to hold me responsible, and you are going to hear the nitty gritty of how it's going. I'm prepared to be completely open and honest. Which is something I don't usually like to do. But hey, this is my blog and if you don't like it by all means don't read it! So... Are you prepared?

There are several areas in which I want to improve. I do feel however that in order to strengthen the relationship you have with others, you must first strengthen the relationship you have with yourself, and before doing that, you must find the strength and the time to strengthen your relationship with your Lord. And so.. my first resolution is to make it my very top priority to read my scriptures every day and to never leave my house in the morning without kneeling and speaking directly with my Heavenly Father. Evening prayers are less of a challenge for me than in the mornings. So it is not on my list. There are some of you who have mastered this already. To you I say...well done. You are my inspiration. There was a time when this was an area of expertise for me, but I have learned that self mastery is a life long, (actually eternal) pursuit. Areas in which you felt you had mastered can fall to the wayside and become your challenges yet again. It can be daunting and very humbling to find yourself at the age of 28 working to improve in the same areas you were at the age of 16. But here I am... No holds bar. Honestly saying that I need to do better. I hate excuses, so therefore will venture none. I am not looking back. Only forward with an eye of faith that I will accomplish this for not only the year 2011 but hopefully for the rest of my life.

Going forward with my belief in helping yourself before helping others. My next resolution, is to put my health next on the list. To work out at least 4 days a week and eat right. Yes, you read this correctly...I am putting myself before my children in this category. Those of you who know me well, might know that this is something I struggled with for a long time. I have however gotten a head start on this one and in the past 3 months have been working out regularly and eating, not just healthy, but the proper amount for a person my size. I have lost 15 pounds and am continuing on. I LOVE food, which will never change, so I will not be doing any crazy fad diets. Rather digging to the root of the problem and finding out a way to eat that will continue throughout my life.

Next comes my wonderful husband Randy. No, I am not making it my New Year's Resolution to change him. Although there are times when I try!! It is to strengthen my relationship with him. Don't get me wrong.... I consider myself happily married to an amazing man. One who sometimes I feel I don't always deserve. One who sometimes I can push aside for the needs of my children. I really hope someone out there can sympathize with me on this. I hope I am not alone. I adore his company and love spending time with him, but sometimes feel it is a luxury I can't afford. LUXURY??? WHAT??? Sounds crazy huh? It should not be a luxury. It needs to be a necessity. So it is my resolution to have a two hour date together once a week. We do not necessarily have to go out somewhere every week. It can be at home while the kids are asleep. But two hours to spend talking and laughing the way we did before our lives became so crazy. Every time we are alone together I remember why I fell in love with him. I need that reminder sometimes. What can I say... marriage can be hard. :)

Sadly I am leaving my kiddos out of this. Not saying that I am a perfect Mother. Far from it actually. I need to control my temper better and be more patient, but as far as my relationship with them goes... I'm doing pretty good. I am a full time mother. Most of my day is spent building my relationship with them. Actually, I love being a mother so much that I really believe it was my excuse for allowing these other parts of my life to suffer. I will probably be changing my story once they are teenagers, so please don't rub it in my face in about 10 years.

Hang in there... I'm almost done. Next is the organization of my house. We have a small house, which has it's advantages. It's really easy to clean. But hard to find places to store stuff. I am a habitual thrower awayer! But over this past year with my third baby my house has become a lot less organized. So I will be digging through cupboards and going through closets and buying storage bins and making trips to donation bins. I love being organized, but don't always take the time. So My resolution is to make the inside of my cupboards and closets look beautiful. As well as the inside of my home.

There I am done. Here's to a New Year filled with mending relationships and organizing not only my home, but also my priorities. I will keep you updated with progress in these areas as well as pictures of the family. (which is what I know you really care about) If you have taken the time to read through this, I thank you. I also encourage you to re-evaluate your own life and perhaps compile your own list. It is truly empowering to realize that the only limits we have on us are those we place on ourselves. I am looking forward to the year 2011 and hope you have a happy and healthy one.

Lanie's third birthday

2010-05-21T17:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay... so Lanie's birthday was over 2 months ago but i thought I would publish some pictures from her party.

I always promised myself that my children would all get equal treatment (I really don't want middle child syndrome in my family) but lo and behold Delaney's third birthday was closing in and she is yet to have had a birthday party. Guilt began settling in and I decided that I needed to do something big for her. Seeing as she was just trumped from being the baby of the family two months prior. (Once I became a mother, guilt has become a frequent companion! Go figure!) Madelyn has not had a birthday go by without having a party. And once Lanie grows up, she may never let me live it down. Those of you who have more than one child may understand, and those of you who don't... Don't judge.

I asked her what kind of party she wanted and she told me... Monster's Inc. I agreed and thought that was pretty cool until I started planning and realized that Lanie and I were alone in that oppinion. I couldn't find anything anywhere. I was, however, able to put some things together and it turned out to be pretty cool.

Monster's Inc bounce house!

Some Monster Cup cakes that my mom and dad helped me whip up! My dad is surprisingly creative.(Thanks guys)

I found these cute monster suckers online at Oriental Trading!

Here is Lanie opening her presents with Uncle Matt.

The kids decorated their very own cupcake and made their own monster mask! but for some reason my computer wont let me post more than 4 pics:(

She had a fun time and it did appease some of my guilt. Happy Birthday my Big girl

2010-05-08T00:10:00.000-07:00

I guess after a year of never posting anything, I should hop to it! Baby girl number three is here and I must say I can't believe that I actually felt as though my life was complete before she was welcomed into it. She just popped out (TMA?) and made our life more calm and more filled with love. Of all three of our additions to the family, this was by far the easiest transition.

When a stranger learns that I have three girls they usually remark with, "Three girls? WOW!" followed with some kind of facial spasm! The question usually to follow is, " Are you going to try for that boy?" I must admit that the thought that runs through my head first is, "why would I ever want one of those?" But of course I never reply that way!! I try to oblige them with the answer they are looking for and act as though a boy would be a true blessing. The truth is (No offense to those of you who have adorable little boys) that I guess I don't know what I am "missing out on" as you all call it. I am perfectly content with my three girls and according to me nothing could be better. Besides, at this point I feel as if a little boy were to eventually come into the family he would be tortured and dressed up and poked and prodded and would probably be bossed around constantly. It would just be cruel for Heavenly Father to send a boy now. In a few years you may all be laughing at my predicament when I have a boy on the way! Wow... I sound cynical!! I swear I'm not!

Anyway... This is sweet Mallory Kay!!! I just want to squeeze her all the time and if I weren't so busy all day, I would! She is the happiest baby and right now her favorite toy is a human face to look at and laugh with!

Delaney Marie! Goofy girl. She is my softy. Can't stand to see anyone cry or be upset. So sensitive and yet always trying to make me laugh. I must admit I am a pretty easy crowd. I'm just a bit partial to her. I do fear, however, that I'm going to give her a false sense of her own comedic genius. Oh well... she has her whole life to be disappointed!

Madelyn Mae. She is truly a spit fire. So self assured that sometime I find myself learning lessons from her on how to truly be myself without worrying what others may think. She has no doubt that she is smart and funny and that everyone she meets will one day(even if it's not today) be her friend! And you know what, everyone does, if not instantly, than eventually come around to it!

Well here they are. Till next Year! Eehhhh..... just kidding, I'll try not to wait so long. No promises though. I'm way to afraid of commitment

Police open house.

2009-06-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

Randy and I went to a seminar on how to keep your children safe. It was quite interesting and a lot of the things they talked about were common sense but some things I hadn't thought about. Like for example, for each child you should have a kit prepared with a recient picture of your child, an index card with their height, weight, hair color, eye color, and any distinguishing birth marks. In addition you should have their finger prints and a DNA kit. (you could make one your self, just swab the inside of their ckeek and put it in a zip lock bag) I know it sounds crazy, but in case something does happen where they go missing, we all know that time is of the essence. They also talked a lot about good strangers vs. bad strangers and practicing making 911 calls where you are the operator and they are calling. Pretend there is an emergency and make sure they know what to do.

Anyway, it got me thinking that it may be time to make my blog PRIVATE! Not that I think anyone is stalking me or anything but I just want to be safe rather than sorry. So, if you would like to continue reading, please leave me a comment with your e mail address. Even if I don't really know you, but you are a friend of a friend or something, just let me know and I will add you. I promise to check every day and delete you address as soon as I copy it down. I won't switch over for a few weeks.

Okay on to better things. The girls and I went to our city's police open house. It was a lot of fun with a rock wall to climb and a bounce house (for free), and lots of exhibits. I got a couple of pictures even though it was blistering hot.

Me and my girls.

Maddie loved the rock wall and did really well. Lanie was a little unsure.

Ella loved it also. She did great.

Maddie and Ella with McGruff? (I think) Lanie kept her distance.

Strawberry Picking!! mmmm!!!!

2009-06-02T10:16:00.001-07:00

Well it's been quite a while since my last post, but I have a great excuse... I haven't felt like it! No really, I just lose track of time. But we have been doing some fun things in the mean time.

Madelyn, Delaney and I went on a field trip, with my mommy and me class, to Tanaka Farms in Irvine to do some strawberry picking. It was a lot of fun. We took a wagon ride through the farm where they picked fresh veggies for us to try right there on the wagon. My girls will eat almost anything. (like their mom) So we loved trying everything from the carrots down to the onions (spicy)! Then they dropped us off in a strawberry patch to pick as many as our tummies could hold and also fill up our cartons. They were the most delicious and enormous strawberries I have ever had. I need to find out how to make mine grow so big. I only get these puney ones off of my my plants!

Mmm carrots!

Maddie loved the strawberries!
So did Lanie! ( I think)
walking back to the wagon.
We had a great time. Will do again!

Mother's Day!!

2009-05-12T08:07:00.001-07:00

Happy belated Mother's Day to all. I hope you were able to sleep in, eat good food (that you didn't have to make), not change any diapers, and have the day filled with people who told you how much they love and appreciate you.

I love Mother's Day because it is my one day a year when I have the perfect excuse to say... "Go ask your Dad!" I had a great one. Randy made his famous french toast and I got this bad boy as my gift.

I know we are a bit behind the times. That's because we aren't really into video games. However, this is so much more. I also got the Wii Fit to go with it. We have been playing it all day.

Now a shout out to my Mom. You all probably think you have the best Mom, but I actually do. Even as a child I grew up wanting to be just like her. She was perfection as far as I was concerned. I still try to do things the way I think she would. Now, as I get older, I know she's not perfect, but just about as close a human can get to it on this earth :) (I know totally sappy) If my Mom were to read this she would think I was crazy and be very embarrassed. Oh well. I don't want to go on and on, but I really did learn a lot about patience, humility, never judging, always seeing the bright side of things, service, and unyielding faith. (just to name a few)

Now If your not thinking, "Wow she sure is lucky to have a mom like that." You will be when I say few things about my Mother-in Law. I hear horror stories about Mother-in-Laws and I have been so blessed. I have loved her from the first time we met, when I was 16 and she was my Laurel advisor. She was such a great teacher who shared her testimony so freely. I've learned a lot from her. She truly is the picture of generosity, steadfastness, love, faith, and thoughtfulness. (again, just to name a few).

Okay, i know this was a mushy post, but I just needed to write a few things about the women who help shape and mold me into who I want to become. Thanks to all the women out there who work, or worked, so hard to raise righteous children and who are the glue that hold their families together. The Lord knows you, and knows the sacrifices you make.

I swear I'm turning into a feminist! Happy Mother's Day!

A Day At The Beach!

2009-05-01T08:02:00.000-07:00

We spent a day at Reef Point Beach in Laguna. I grew up going here and it has the coolest tide pools where you can find sea enemities and different kinds of crabs. The kids had a blast. Here they are in one of the tide pools. Madelyn and Ella found their way up to the top of this huge rock. I must say, it made me a little nervous.

Here's Madie on her way up!

My sweetie cutie Lanie. I must explain why I don't have as many pictures of her on this trip. It's because she is such a mama's girl that I was usually holding her, or she was clinging to my leg crying for me to hold her. She's still my baby and part of me loves it but I do hope it's a phase she will eventually grow out of. Wait no I don't, okay, for her own sake, I do.

Finding her precious, priceless sea shells.

What A fun day. We need to go to the beach more often.

Fun pictures

2009-04-17T13:33:00.001-07:00

Madelyn found this mustache in Randy's work truck. (don't ask!) And Randy took some pictures that I thought were hilarious. My little trucker girl. Her face in this one just cracks me up. She sure can wear a mustache.
Although he doesn't admit it, I think that Randy wants a boy. Well..... actually, come to think of it, Madie might be boy enough . She loves to work on Daddy's Scout with him. (his new project.)
My sweet little Lanie at the beach. I just thought I'd throw this one in for good measure.
Oh yeah.... A momentous occasion. You have to be a mother to truly understand! Delaney is officially potty trained. I'm so proud of her! Here she is on her potty seat while big sis reads her a book. And of course Madelyn is naked. She simply cannot keep her clothes on. If she gets even remotely hot, she has to strip them off. She is so much like her Dad it's not funny. I hardly ever notice, except when someone comes to the door, and I have to yell at her to get some clothes on. I don't know what she's gonna do in kindergarten.

Easter Pics

2009-04-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

We had a great Easter. We were able to spend it with both our families. So needless to say it was a crazy day.
Easter morning before we left for church,
Mae Mae with her basket.
Lanie with hers.
Mindi and Tyson were down so we got a picture of all of the grandkids together. Aren't they all sooo cute?
From left to right... Kaleigh holding Ace(Rick, and Marissa's), Delaney, Madelyn (Mine), Riley holding Aubry (Mindi and Tyson's), Drake holding Jett (Rick and Missa's), and Cade (Rick and Miss) holding Jasper (Justin and Amber's).

The Huntington Library

2009-04-03T11:06:00.000-07:00

Maddie and Lanie in front
of a Koi pond

Yesterday, the girls and I went for a visit to the Huntington Library. It was so much fun. I've been there many times, and every time I go I am amazed at how beautiful and peaceful it is. I felt as though I had stepped back in time a hundred years. Henry E. Huntington began one of the finest research libraries and a collection of priceless artwork in the early 1900's. He also created many different botanical gardens with plants from all around the globe. To imagine that this place was once his home.

It was kind of a tease because there was so much I wanted to see. In the Library are such a wide range of rare books, including the Gutenberg Bible, many early editions of Shakespeare's works, and many more. And an Abraham Lincoln exhibit. (Which I had to run through because my kids kept yelling that they wanted to go play in the children's garden) People kept giving me dirty looks. I suppose that's because museums aren't really for yelling children.

I decided that we needed to spend our time outside. In the many wondrous works of art created in the wide open. Which are just as beautiful and breathtaking as the indoor exhibits. Most of our time was spent in the Children's garden. Filled with pathways and tunnels surrounded by greenery. And water fountains to play in. They loved it.

I did manage to get a peek at the Chinese and Japanese gardens. Which were amazing. The Chinese garden truly is a work of art. As you stroll through the winding paths, new scenes unravel. Everything was placed so articulately. Every arch and window seemed to frame a perfect work of art that looked like a painting. I felt so at peace. They really are onto something with their balancing of yin and yang.

Madelyn and her bestey, Ella. They had a blast.
They had this magnetic black sand that I believe is called magnetite? (not sure) Anyway it was the coolest stuff. It would stick to the metal shafts they had placed and completely change it's form. So Cool.
Madelyn Mae.

By the end of the day the kids were so tired that Madelyn said, "she just couldn't take another step." So I had to put her in the stroller and carry Delaney on my shoulders and walk like a mile back to the car. ugh!

Over all a great day!!!

Smarty Pants!

2009-04-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know that this post is going to sound a bit like bragging, but too bad. It is a mothers prerogative to brag ever so often.

So Delaney just turned two about three weeks ago. If you can't tell from my blog before this one, I'm not really the flash card kind of mom. I figure when children are ready to learn their numbers and letters you will know. Lately, however, I have been spending a bit of time working with Madelyn to get her ready for kindergarten in the fall, playing learning games and so on. Delaney likes to stand in and be a part of it also.

We have the Leapster "Word Wammer" that you stick on the fridge with all the letters of the alphabet to go with it. Delaney plays with it every once in a while. This morning I heard her playing with it and didn't pay much attention, as usual. Until I heard it say "Let's spell the word POT. The first letter in the word POT is P." Then I hear Lanie say," hmmm... P? Oh, here it is." Then pick it up and put it in the first spot for the word. This caught my attention. I really did think it was just a coincidence. Then I hear, "The next letter in the word POT is the letter O." She proceeds to find the letter O and put it into the next spot. Okay so now I am really paying attention. Then comes T. She picks it up and puts it into the next spot. WHAT? I couldn't believe it. Especially since I have never worked on it with her before. (It makes me feel a little guilty that she learned all this on her own.)

I went through all the letters and she knows every single one. Even the sounds of most of them. I was so excited, I called Randy right away, but still felt I needed to tell someone. I didn't want to sound like I was bragging, so to my blog I went. I mean, of course I thought she was smart (I am her mother after all) but I am still caught a little off guard. Woo Hoo!!

Here she is with her "Word Wammer"!!!

I Love this face!! She is just too cutie!

Kindergarten already?

2009-03-24T15:55:00.000-07:00

My little Madelyn is starting kindergarten in September. I thought, since she has a late birthday (Oct 2nd) that I might get away with keeping her home for one more year. But her pre-school teacher kept telling me she was ready for kindergarten. i didn't want to believe it but even my mom and neighbor (who are teachers) say she's ready. And really she totally is. She's very advanced. Her friends have always been older than she.

I didn't realize until I was driving by her school to be, that they had already begun registration. Man once your child begins school, you really need to be on top of stuff. :( I really enjoy my not too structured fly by the seat of my pants kind of schedule. Oh well... Life begins!

Anyway, to get to my point, She had to get her kindergarten shots today. It was awful. She was so brave. She didn't even cry. And she got poked 6 times. (I can't say the same for me. I felt so bad for her.) I remember like it was yesterday when I had to get my shots for kindergarten. It was scary, but I wanted to prove that I was tough so I didn't cry either. Like mother like daughter.

Anyway afterwards I let her pick whatever she wanted from target and my sweet girl only chose a $5 movie and a $1 bouncy ball. I would have let her choose more but we were running out of time. She took 2 hours simply deciding on those. Anyway, at the end of it all she even said that today was a great day!!! I just love that girl!

Beauty and the Beast

2009-03-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

Last night Maddie and I went to go see
Beauty and the Beast, the musical, that a local high school was
performing. I was so impressed. The costumes and
props were fantastic and there were several students
that had real talent. Madelyn loved it. I could have spent the
entire play simply watching Madelyn's reactions. She was so into it.
During the scary parts she would hide her face in my arm and
during the exciting parts she would stand up and clap so
enthusiastically. I would glance at her during the serious and sad
moments and she would have a look of complete distress
on her cute little face.

Here she is anticipating our departure. (she had to wear her most "Bell like" dress)

Mommy and Maddie in our seats. And some random people behind us.

During intermission she was upset because she thought it was over and The Beast had not yet turned into the prince.

Crack kills!!!

2009-03-10T17:12:00.000-07:00

I was tagged.....

When Randy and I lived in Uptown Whittier we would go to the street fair they have every Wednesday evening. Those were in the good ol' days when Sarah worked at the school that was literally right across the street from my house. I would see her every day and not any of this once a month non-sense. (I'm not bitter or anything that she lives so far away!) :) Sarah would come along also and she took this here picture of Maddie having a piggie back ride from her Dad. That girl always has her butt crack showing.

Here are the rules...

1. Go to you pictures/documents

2. Go to your 6th file

3. Go to your 6th picture and blog about it.

4. I tag Sarah, Shawnelle, and Courtney Kinnick.

A Few More....

2009-03-06T20:53:00.000-08:00

One of their favorite places to hang out.

Madelyn Catching Bubbles!!!!

"Da Bah" Delaney never leaves home without it.

2009-03-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

Okay, well I don't know how far back to go so I thought I would just show a few pictures of Halloween and Christmas morning.

Super Girl

Bat Girl

Present Time!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm Baaaaaaaaaack!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-03-05T15:35:00.000-08:00

Okay, okay, okay, okay, I know it's been over a year. We finally have the internet. Yeeeeeeeaaaaahhhhhhh!!!!!!!
No more going to my parents house to pay bills and check my e mail. (while my children destroy their living room) No more calling movie phone and waiting through that annoying menu for show times. (I have the number and menu memorized) No more having to ask people for actual turn by turn directions to their house. The conversation always started with, "I need Directions to your house. No I can't just get the address. You see, we don't have the Internet. It's a long story. I don't know why. I guess we haven't gotten around to it. And then Bla Bla Bla No Phone Jack, No power supply!! Anyway...(yeah for map quest. How I've missed you.) I love the internet. Oh and online shopping, my long lost love. You are always there when i need a shopping fix. No more dragging my children through Sephora looking for my mascara. Now, whatever I need can be delivered to my door step. I am back in the twent First Century and OOOOOH does it feel GOOOOOD to be back.

My poor children don't understand why now I spend so long sitting in front of this screen with a look of complete and utter satisfaction on my face. I just have so much to catch up on. I stayed up past midnight looking at everyone's blogs last night.

Anyway, You are probably wondering where all the gol darn pictures are. Am I right? Well I would be too. I'm still having some technical difficulties when it comes to downloading pictures. They will be coming soon. We are all doing well. Lanie's 2nd birthday is on sunday and Maddie will be starting kindergarten this Fall. Yikes!! More to follow.

I'll work on the picture thing though. Scouts Honor!

For Those of You Who Still BELIEVE!!!

2008-02-24T21:19:00.001-08:00

Those of you who still check my blog, and have faith that someday I may re-enter the blogging world - I thank you. I'm still hoping that it will be someday in the near future.

Okay, so we still don't have internet at our house!!! :( GRRR! It's causing some severe marital problems. J/K! Randy is rarely home and fairly computer illiterate, so he does not see the need that I see in having internet. I really try to pick my battles, but now I feel as though this is a battle worth fighting. ha ha ha. Wish me luck. In Randy's defense, there is still a lot to do around the house and so he is very busy!

I don't have any pictures because my parents computer is not set up for downloading pictures. There is way too much to catch up on, So I will give a very brief update. Everyone is doing great! Delaney is almost 1! and Madelyn is 3! We are now living comfortably in our new home! (Well, New to us) Pictures to follow! Hopefully. Okay well I'll post again later.

Still not home.

2007-08-07T09:46:00.000-07:00

Well, we successfully moved on Saturday. Our stuff that is, We, however, are staying with my parents. Our house is lacking a toilet. Quite a necessity If you ask me. There are a few more things that we have to complete. I wont have pictures until after we get home from Hawaii on the 17th. We really need that vacation!

I hate the feeling of being mis placed. I do love being with my family, but it's hard on Maddie not having a house. She calls our house "the broken house." It doesn't look quite like a home yet. Last night she was crying saying that she wanted to go home. It really broke my heart. It made me understand that children really do need stability.

I can't believe how much we accomplished in 1 1/2 months. If it weren't for the help of our family and friends we would have never completed anything. I really love and appreciate all those who love us and took the time out of their busy lives to help us. We really owe you and will repay our debt. I promise! I will make a list of everything that we did. Sorry If I'm boring you.

1. put in Central air and heating.
2. All new copper plumbing.
3. upgraded electrical panel and all new electrical in the whole house.
4. Scraped cottage cheese ceilings and textured entire house. (every wall)
5. tore down load bearing wall between kitchen and living room and framed in area for island/bar.
6. tiled bathroom. New toilet and vanity
7. framed in back door and dry walled it for more counter space in kitchen
8. Entire new kitchen. cabinets, granite, and flooring.
9. New molding throughout the entire house. Even our door casings.
10. New interior doors throughout. still waiting for those to come in.
11. new carpet and laminate flooring through out entire house.
12. ran water and gas out to garage for washer and dryer.
13. expanded our bedroom closet. (taking space from Maddie's closet. She'll hate us for it when she's older.)
14. patched everything
15. Probably more that I can't think of. It has been a long couple of months.

Signing off for a little While!

2007-08-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, today is the day that I am packing up my desk. Including my computer and all the cables for my camera and everything. So no posts for a while. Hopefully we will be able to get our computer hooked up pronto, so I can be back soon. I don't think I can live too long without my computer.

Guess The Song Trivia!!

2007-07-30T23:15:00.000-07:00

Okay... I just figured out how to post videos. It's not the best video, (Maddie acts kind of silly when the camera is on her.) But see if you can guess the song that Madelyn is singing.

HINT...It's an oldie but goodie! :)

Can we say... STRESSED OUT!!!

2007-07-30T22:07:00.000-07:00

Okay well things are CRAZY right now. The date of Aug 4th , move in day is fast approaching, and our house is no where near ready. There are people waiting to move into where we are now, so moving back our date is not an option. Maybe we will just have to park our camping trailer out in front of the new house and live in there! :( (For those of you who don't realize it, I'm Just joking) I've began packing. I never know what I should pack a week in advanced and I don't want to leave everything till the last minute so I'm packing everything. We are eating off of paper plates and I feel like we are camping out only we are in our own house.

Here are some pictures that I took over the last week or so.

My little cutie! I swear, she gets sweeter and sweeter everyday! It's hard to believe, but by tomorow she will be even sweeter than this!
Madelyn and her best friend. Man they Love eachother!
Some quality bath time with her cousins. In a few months we will be able to stick Delaney in there for some pictures. My babies. Just hanging out.

15 DAYS UNTIL MAUI

2007-07-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

I can't wait until this much needed vacation. Only fifteen days to go. Okay... I know I have a lot to do till then... but what a great reward and only two weeks away (fine...and one day!).
We are going with Randy's Family. Minus Mindi, Tyson, Riley and Aubry! (We will miss you.) If you're reading this, We can't wait till your visit next month. I need to see that baby!

A Quiet Evening.

2007-07-25T21:34:00.000-07:00

I just feel like rambling tonight. Randy is at the new house working late as he does every night. His work ethic amazes me. The girls both fell asleep in the car on the way home from bringing Randy dinner. It was an unexpected surprise. A good one considering I am tired. No 45 minute night time routine. You know, baths, PJ's, brushing teeth, brushing hair, books, songs and prayers. I can just relax.

Well I finally made a choice for my kitchen cabinets. I was down to the wire. I think I may have decision anxiety. You know I want to make sure I am getting the best for my money. Which I think I am. But they are beautiful. I will take pictures of the kitchen when it's all put together. I have pictures of it now, but I fear if I post those you will all think we are crazy. you have to have real vision to see any potential in this house. The house is in total shambles. And we are moving in, in a week and 1/2. I'm sure it will all come together at the last minute as almost all big projects do.

Today I was able to spend the afternoon with one of my dear friends from high school. It is always so much fun to catch up with old friends. We've both changed so much, and are in two totally different stages in our life, but still have fun together. Our conversations have matured a little. They aren't so focused on boys, but rather life in general and each other's own well being. It made me long to be back in those high school days just a little!

Well, it has been HOT lately. The house we are renting now does not have air conditioning. Needless to say, the girls and I are gone by noon every day and don't return till bed time. I love being out and about, however, It has caused me to really neglect my house work. I should get going. I have a pile of laundry that needs folding.

I Guess I Got Taggged

2007-07-16T11:03:00.000-07:00

Jobs I've had...
1. selling Cutco knives
2. Deluca's Italian Restaurant

Places for weekend getaways...
1. The Beach
2. Yosemite (for a long weekend)
3. Utah
4. Mountains

Movies I watch over and over...
1. You've Got Mail
2. The Holiday
3. The Lord of The Rings
4. Friends episodes on DVD

Guilty Pleasures...
1. Naps in the afternoon while the kids are sleeping
2. Apples with peanut butter (mmm)
3. Late night movies and popcorn in bed with Randy
4. Diet Coke. Haven't had one in over a year! :(

Places I've lived...
(These are all before the age of Five)
1. Eugene, Oregon
2. Modesto, Ca
3. La Mirada, Ca
4. Whittier, Ca

What I thought when I first saw my significant other...
1. Wow, he's cute. I hope he pushed me into the pool. (I was 15)
2. He seems way too cool to go for me.
3. His car is too loud
4. How come all his clothes are name brand, even down to his socks?

Places I've been on vacation...
1. Europe (Holland, Denmark)
2. Hawaii (Maui, Oahu)
3. Mexico (Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas, Rosarito )
4. Yosemite

Favorite Foods...
1. Asian Inspired anything
2. Sherri's Chicken Cacciatore
3. Mom's Chinese Chicken Salad
4. My Thai Shrimp Bisque

If in a "jam" with spouse, tactics used to get out of the dog house...
1. Say Sorry while making a sad sad face
2. If that doesn't work then on to plan B, you know what it is!

Website I visit daily...
(none daily. I'm not really a computer person. Pretty ignorant when it comes to them.)

First Kiss locations...
1. Outside of the bathrooms in Junior High (gross)
2. My Backyard
3. In a Car
4. The most important one was on Jillian's couch! (Thanks Jill)

Places I'd rather be...
1. Hawaii
2. New Zealand
3. New York City
4. The beach

4 People I tag...
1. Marissa
2. Cindy Hale
3. Courtney Kinnick
That's it. I don't have too many blogging friends

Where did the time go?

2007-07-09T12:14:00.000-07:00

Well... I'm sorry It's been so long. I don't know where all the time goes. I suppose I'm not yet used to logging onto the computer in my spare time. Here are just a few pictures.

This is Maddie's Funny face. She does it all the time.

I went to Old Navy and bought the girls matching outfits. There aren't too many places you can find the same outfit in both 3T and 3mns. I love it when they match!

I also tried to use sponge curlers in Maddie's hair, however, she refused to lay down on them that night. She ended up coming into my room at about 11:00 p.m. and saying, " I hate these curlies! " It took me 45 min. to put them in and I had to take them out. Oh well, she sure looked cute.

Family happenings

2007-06-19T08:56:00.000-07:00

Randy's sister Mindi had her baby girl this morning at 4:04 a.m. Aubry Lynn Cluff, 7lbs 6oz, 19" long. She is so beautiful. I was sent a picture on my phone but i can't download it to my computer. :( Sorry! They are in Pennsylvania while her husband finishes up his P.A. program. We miss them very much and I can't wait to see that baby girl. Congratulations to them! Delaney and Aubry are only 3 & 1/2 months apart and hopefully will become good friends.

Well, Escrow closes today on our new house. Tomorrow the work begins. I feel so lucky to have bought a house and a little overwhelmed at the same time. Tomorrow a guy is coming from Home Depot to measure my kitchen and then I will meet with a designer to decide what I want and what will go where. So exciting. Sarah was over yesterday and we went over a loooot of catalogs. I think I have my mind set. Randy is such a good husband. He doesn't interfere with the kitchen. Ha Ha Ha!!! I ask his input but he really lets me decide. I will take a before and after picture and post it. We are ripping out walls and everything. I Cannot wait. The painting starts hopefully on Thursday and so on and so forth. We have had so many wonderful people offer to help. I will keep you posted on the progress. ( Not that anybody cares. I think I'm just humoring myself.)

Anyway... A lot is going on in the life of this Jackman family. We feel so blessed for all we have. A great family and great friends who would do anything for us. We are showered with so many blessings that I don't think we deserve them all. Thanks to all out there who care about us.

La Habra Children's museum

2007-06-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the Children's museum in La Habra with Shawnelle, her twin girls and her sister Char. It was a lot of fun. We ended up splitting the cost of a pass. You can get up to 12 people in with it. Anyway... Maddie loved it. Delaney, still too young to enjoy it, was a perfect angel as always

Here's Maddie inside a huge bubble. Pretty cool huh!

They had a miniature carousel that they run every half hour.

A room dedicated to painting. That is Maddie's favorite passtime. Needless to say, we had to spend quite a bit of time in that room.

I wish I had more pictures, but the memory card that came with my camera only holds 6 pictures at a time. How Lame! They told Randy, "If you buy this camera it comes with a free memory card." They never said it only holds 6 pictures. Anyway...I still had a couple from my birthday that I had not yet downloaded. So I only had room for 3 more pictures. I need to get myself to the store to buy another memory card.

Well overall it was a great day spent with good friends.

A birthday at home.

2007-06-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

Well today was my birthday. I am now 25 years old. Is it just me, or does growing up sometimes stink? It's not the age thing, but I just think my mother did too good of job of making my birthday special. I got a special breakfast and I didn't have to do any chores for that day. Well, I had Grape Nuts for breakfast this morning and still had to do chores. I am sounding really spoiled and self centered aren't I? Anywho, I did have a fun day other wise. I went to my sisters house this morning for a play group and she got me a cake. So sweet. (I didn't have my camera, so no picture) One of my good friends, Jeannie, shares the same birthday, so we went and had lunch. The kids both napped at the same time, so guess what I did? Yep! I took a nap. Now that's a good day.

I spent the evening at home with those who mean the most to me. The most exciting part...I got a new camera!!!! Yeah! Hopefully now i will be taking a lot more and better quality pictures. Randy got the kids ready for bed while i read a little bit about my new camera. Aren't they so cute.

My sweet Maddie Mae wished me a happy birthday about 20 times today. She is the best.

ME!!!!
Well I am 25 years old now. I hope it looks ok on me.

Delaney's Blessing!

2007-06-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

Today was the day that Delaney was blessed. It was wonderful to hear Randy bless her. She is such a sweet baby. All of our family was there. I love it when we all get together. We had a luncheon at our house and I took some pictures. I forgot to get a picture of Delaney in her dress, so I guess I'll have to put it back on her and take a picture. But not today, I'm beat.
My sister Emily and her baby Jonas with my sis-in-law Marissa. She and her family came down from Utah. I've really missed them. They just moved away about 5 months ago. How sweet of them to come all this way.
Two of my nieces. Katelyn and Taylor. They were such a help with the kids. I remember when I used to watch the children and keep them occupied at family gatherings. Now those very children are helping to do the same thing for my kids.
Sarah and Dave were there. You know someone is a true friend when they will drag themselves out of bed and be at a building far from their house by 9:00 a.m. on a Sunday. Thanks guys!

Randy's brother Rick had a headache so he went to lay down in our bed. Well I guess he fell asleep and Randy decided to join him. I had to get a picture of this. I was glad to see they weren't spooning. All in all a wonderful Day.

Kids Say the Cutest Things

2007-06-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

Forgive the hair, she just woke up. Anyway...Maddie was looking through our church directory. (That's what she's holding in the picture.) She then asked me what it was, so I told her. " It's a book that you look through for phone numbers so you can call someone from church and talk to them." So Maddie started looking through it and said, "Mom? I can't find it!" I asked her what she couldn't find and she responded, "The number for Jesus, I want to talk to him." OH MY GOODNESS!!! too cute.

Okay, It doesn't get much better than that. I just had to document that. Kids just say the cutest things.

The Street Fair

2007-05-31T10:55:00.000-07:00

Last night Randy, Sarah, the kids and I all went to the Uptown Whittier Street Fair. I go almost every week with the kids but Randy and Sarah don't usually get to go. They close down a whole street and a bunch of vendors come down and set up tents. They have a bounce house and a petting zoo for the kids. Needless to say Maddie had a great time.

Delaney was a perfect angel the whole time. Man I could just eat her up!!!!!!!!

Maddie loved the bounce house. Although, she yelled at all the other kids to get out as they came in. (Some of which were twice her age and actually listened to her.) She is getting bossy! Two year olds will be two year olds.

She insists that her father carry her around on his shoulders and her butt crack pokes out the whole time. No matter how hard I try to lift her pants up. Well at least it's a cute butt crack.

I know, I know, it's not Christmas!

2007-05-31T10:21:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite pass times these days is looking at all my old photographs. It really tugs at my heart strings. All you moms out there know what I'm talking about. I miss Madelyn as a baby. And sometimes I wish I could just go back in time and spend just one more day with her at every age. I feel so lucky to have another baby and experience it all over again and really try to soak up and enjoy every stage this time. So in honor of reminiscing I decided to post the pictures of Maddie's last 3 Christmas'.

Only 2 months old.

One year

Two years

random thoughts.

2007-05-28T22:29:00.000-07:00

Well I've been a terrible blogger lately. A lot has been going on and it's been a little overwhelming. We are officially in escrow for our house. It closes June 17th and then the work begins. We hope to do everything before the end of the month so we can save the rent we would be paying here for July. Another move. Man we just moved in here 4 months ago. Finally a place of our own.

On a separate note... Randy is the hardest working most motivated person I know. He has been going non-stop. Between his job and his calling in church he has very little time to even sleep and still He has the hardest time sleeping in if he knows there are things that need to be done. He is really an inspiration to me.

A momentous occasion!!!!! The baby slept through the night:) True, it only happened once, but woo hoo. She is all of a sudden morphing into this easy baby. Who knew. The colic is over. Well mostly.

Lastly, I hope everyone enjoyed their 3 day weekend. I surely did. We spent lots of time with our wonderful friends and family. There's nothing better than that. I've been really bad about bringing my camera,(mostly because I hate it)so another blog without pictures. Sorry. I'll do better next time.

A fun day, but I'm tired.

2007-05-19T23:15:00.000-07:00

Well today my friend Sarah graduated from college. Yeah for her!!!!!!! Anyway...the baby and I went. I sat in the sun for 3 hours, my anticipation building up, waiting for them to call out Sarah Moore. I didn't want to miss it. When they finally did I yelled at the top of my lungs only to find out that she didn't even hear me. Well it was still nice to see her all dressed in the cap and gown, and the graduation song always brings out so much emotion. Kinda like the song, "We are the Champions!" Oh and the theme song from "Rocky". Anyway... I got the worst farmers tan on my arms. It's pretty embarrassing. After the graduation we had a barbecue at my house for Sarah. It was a lot of fun. I am so tired today though. Parties are so much harder to put on with two kids. Man, I'm going to have to get used to this. One of the hardest things for me is being interrupted or having to stop when I'm in the middle of something when the baby starts crying, or Maddie needs something. Even finding the time to sit down and nurse the baby is hard for me sometimes. There's so much I want to do and so little time to do it in. Well enough complaining. I'm going to bed. Goodnight

Every Emotion Possible!!!

2007-05-17T08:37:00.000-07:00

Well, A momentous occasion happened. Randy and I put an offer down on a house and it was accepted. Beginning tomorrow we will be in escrow for a house. (whatever that means.) It is so scary and exciting at the same time. I feel anxious, nervous, nauseous, sad to leave my ward, and sometimes happy. Talk about mixed emotions. Here in southern California it is a big deal and a lot of money. What are we doing? On paper it works out, but I'm affraid once we move in it wont work. The house needs a lot of work, but it also has a lot of potential. It's in a cute quiet little neighborhood. I can't wait to start my flower garden and pick out paint colors. New hardwood floors, and carpet. See, now I'm getting excited. oh yeah, new windows. Oh no the list keeps going. Well, this might be my last blog seeing as how i may need to sell my computer to put towards our mortgage. j/k. All in all I am excited. It is a huge jump.

A fun & Free Day!

2007-05-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the Discovery Science Center. It's Free the entire month of May for Bank of America customers. Along with a bunch of other museums in Southern California. Madelyn got to spend some time with her best bud Ella. Aren't they cute together.

She got to dress up like Elmo and an alligator. (That's what that is.)

Madelyn had so much fun running around with her cousins. Can't you just see it on her face? She loved every minute. She passed out on the drive home. I feel badly that there aren't any pictures of Delaney but she just slept in her car seat the whole time. She only woke up to eat and poop.

She is just tooooo cute. I think we may go here more often. It is a great place for kids of all ages.

I hate shots.

2007-05-10T18:19:00.000-07:00

My poor sweet baby had to get her first set of shots today. She was all smiling and cooing before they stuck her. She had no idea what was coming. Just when she thought it was over she got two more in her second thigh! OUCH!!!!!!!!!Four shots on her first visit. I think it was harder on me than on her. The only good thing is she's been sleepy ever since.

My Garden is actually growing.

2007-05-08T15:05:00.000-07:00

Where we are living right now has a big patch of dirt in the backyard that used to be a deck. My husband and I decided we would try our hand at this gardening thing. To be honest I was a little bit skeptical about anything really happening. "You mean when you plant a seed in the ground and water it everyday it will really grow into something that you can eat?" I had my doubts. But what do you know, it happened. Here's proof. I'm so proud. Maybe it's lame that I'm taking pictures of it, but hey this is my blog.
Corn
Crook Neck Squash! Can you see them in there!
Zucchini! Bring on the zuccini bread
And my pathetic green beans. They aren't doing very well. I guess you're supposed to add some mulch to the dirt before planting. How am I supossed to know that? I also have tomatoes but they are still small and insignificant.

Thoughts on friendship.

2007-05-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

My daughter Madelyn is only 2 years old and already has a best friend named Ella. (Aren't they cute together?) It just got me thinking about friendship. Friendships made young can last a life time. I met my best friend when I was 5 years old and we have been almost inseparable ever since. I have so many friends from my childhood and adolescence who hold such a special place in my heart. They've helped shape who I am now and I will never forget them. Many have moved away, but I still think about them all the time. I just hope my children are able to meet and keep close to them friends like I did. There's nothing like having a friend who knows you better than you know yourself. I've just been thinking about this stuff and thought I'd write it down.

Two is better than one.

2007-05-03T14:36:00.000-07:00

My two girls!

Beds are overrated

2007-05-03T14:17:00.000-07:00

Just play until you can't play anymore. She can't hold still long enough to fall asleep. She has to be doing something until the very last blink.

A fun week so far.

2007-05-03T10:48:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm not in the habit of writing everyday. So I'll sum up the last few days. We've had a pretty fun week. On monday night we invited some friends over for a B.B.Q. Delicious food. Teriyaki Salmon with grilled onions and pinneaple, Tri tip and Ribeye with a a seasoned salt rub. YUM There's nothing like great food mingled with great conversation. I think I love both equally. (Is that bad?)
On Tuesday we did end up going to Disneyland. (Maddie took a nap and that was the deal.) Randy got off early and we all went for a few hours. My mom ended up meeting us. We were able to go on four rides in the 1 1/2 hours we were there. We came home early, I had a rump roast in the crock pot. My Dad and Mom ate over. We have them over every Tuesday night. Madelyn really looks forward to it. And so do I. We had another great evening. This is the exact reason why I don't want to move away. I don't know how I would deal without family around.
Last night was fun. I got to go looking at wedding dresses with my best friend Sarah. She looked beautiful in all of them. Seeing her all dressed up in the gown and veil really made it real. I am so excited for her. Anyway... her self-diagnosed decision anxiety (as she likes to call it) didn't rear it's ugly head last night. She picked one. It is beautiful. Being around all this wedding stuff makes me think of everything I wish I had done differently. I guess I've just changed a lot in the last 4 years.

I can't believe I'm doing this.

2007-05-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

Well to be honest I never thoght I would have a blog. I always kind of thought the whole concept was lame, but now I think It's a pretty great idea. What a wonderful way to write the thoughts and feelings about the happenings in my life. Well today was one of those days when I did not want to get out of bed. However I didn't really have a choice. At 6:45a.m. my 2 year old was yelling at me from the bathroom to wipe her butt. That sure got me up in a hurry. Delaney (The baby) didn't sleep a wink last night, and I promised Madelyn (The 2 year old) that we would go to Disneyland as long as she took a nap today. I love anything that gets us out of the house and going. Sometimes I find it too easy to putts around in my pajamas till noon. I hope Randy gets off early enough to meet us. We'll see how it goes. Anyway... my free time for the day has expired. hahaha. bye.