Fitz Crew

Flash Back January 2002

2012-01-27T18:32:00.000-08:00

In San Francisco with Savannah, Caleb and Britt.

Savannah and Brittany. What buddies! We bought our Tahoe so we could bring Britt.

Pier 39 lunch

Expectations vs. Love

2012-01-27T18:16:00.000-08:00

There is nothing more I love to do than to be with people. People in JOY, people in anguish, people in Target. I love people. In the root of my heart I love all people. Yes. All. Love. Am I challenged by this? Yes.

It is my hope that I come across as a person filled with love. Filled with grace. If you live at my house, you know I am short on grace often. I have high expectations. High hopes. My family can be great. The potential is to be had. Often I find myself having to talk myself down and say, white flour is okay, taking a day off from sweating is okay, sitting on the couch is okay. It is hard for me to not want to live life to it's fullest capacity every day. Each day is a gift and I want to tear it open, breathe it in and enjoy.

Those of you in my daily life, I love you. My eyes are set on great things. My heart is trying to surrender each day to what the Lord has, not what I have.

In the last week there have been three deaths of YOUNG people we are in relationship with. The sphere of influence has the potential to be God size or me sized. I'm very aware of me. Get out of the way and allow Him to use our family.

Fall into this time of testing. Fall into the days routine, but quickly abandon it when relationship calls. Love is the greatest of these.

Just some things on my mind.

Quality GIRL Time

2012-01-15T14:36:00.000-08:00

During Christmas vacation the girls and I were able to squeeze in a few outings. By far, our favorite was SKYWALK. We had to make reservations because it is all the rage right now and everyone is on vacation. We spent an hour there jumping. It is 7,ooo square feet of trampolines. We jumped and jumped and jumped. We were sweaty after wards and ready for fluids. What a ball! We were all sore the next day. My abs were killing me. Good times.

Spirit Wear Friday

2012-01-15T14:16:00.000-08:00

Do you love this girl? She cracks me up. She won't wear the hoodie, too bulky. She likes to layer the tank and rock the new headband. Don't ever, ever forget the boots. Super cute Pate!

Eric B.'s 40th Birthday Party

2012-01-06T12:25:00.000-08:00

We had such a BLAST at Eric's 40th birthday. Las Vegas temporarily moved to Clovis! Johnna, owner of Spoonful of Sugar, and my dear friend, planned and hosted an outrageous party. No detail was left out. Johnna has a bunch of pictures on her facebook page. What a party!

Hubby and I upon arrival. A quick pic by the large dice on the lawn.

Me and JB. Don't you love the wine glass markers? Super cute!

Kadi and I

It's Tamale Day

2011-12-20T07:09:00.000-08:00

Today we make tamales with Maria. One of my favorite days of the year. With Maria I get to see Jesus and celebrate Him. Maria has had a really hard year and I would say the last six months have been very challenging for us, too. Today, I get to renew, refresh, refocus.

Téa Quinn loves the masa!

Girls mixing away.

Shelly and I with Maria and some of her kiddos.

Maria was with me with Caleb. A couple of years ago for Christmas she gave me a photo of her family and Savannah, Caleb and I in front of her Christmas tree. It made me cry. She is so sweet and loves so deep. I wish I could tell you everything about her, but it is private. She loves Jesus and her babies. Thank you Maria for this continued tradition.

And She's Back

2011-12-15T06:45:00.000-08:00

It has been so long..... My plan for this blog was to replace baby books for my girls. This would be a place to share life and all of it's experiences. You would sneak a peak into our authentic lives. Well, here is the REAL truth, blogging takes time and I haven't prioritized it. That is about to change. I have many memories and photos to share with you in the coming weeks and months. I know you are pumped.

Here is Ellie Skye with our puppy, Batty Knight. We adopted him from a rescue shelter. Can he be cuter? The girls crack me up with the name. All things black. Funny.

Planning time to catch up......

SNL - Weekend Update: Really with Seth and Kermit - Video - http://www.nbc.com

2011-11-20T06:49:00.000-08:00

This cracks me up at something I am crazy about. Nutrition is critical for our kids. Funny, but terribly sad.

Saturday Night Live - Weekend Update: Really with Seth and Kermit - Video - http://www.nbc.com

2011-11-15T08:37:00.000-08:00

My actions are reflected by the core of my soul.

What do I believe at my innermost being?

Authenticity hurts. Transformation is slow. To know the truth and letting it change you, takes a long time.

As I know God better, my actions are different. It is a lot of work.

When we don't want to do the work, we fall back on prayer. We already know what we are supposed to do. Obey, you don't need to pray about it. You already know the Word, move. He gave us His word to transform us, not prayer. Use the right tool for the right job.

The outcomes of my life should reflect God.

Sierra Kids Tri -FITZ Girls

2011-11-08T12:43:00.000-08:00

Savy girl and Zoee Sanchez

Savannah has been apart of the Sierra Kids Triathlon since about kindergarten or first grade. She has competed every year. Each year she gets closer and closer to the top of the podium and THIS year, she took the top spot! Go Savy Girl go! You are a tri star. Thanks for sharing your love of triathlon with your little sisters. It was a blast to watch Téa race in your fast feet.

Savy and Kieren Devere

Téa and her sisters pre race

1st place and a new bag (That is what she really wanted).

2011-09-23T18:57:00.000-07:00

What we ultimately value, we will ultimately do.

It is not what I feel, it is what I know.

Can I celebrate correction?

Church culture..... What does church look like?

New Spring church Revelations series is incredible. Authentic church. Authentic lives reflecting what we believe. Dig deep.

Ten Years Ago. Reflecting on One

2011-09-11T18:02:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago today. Ten. Ten? Can it be? One coward, one leader, one day. One cross.

Ten years ago today the United States of America was compromised. Our east coast community was shaken to the core and asked "God where are you in this mess? Are You going to show up?"

In tragedy you always question. Have I been forgotten? God did not forget. We do not forget.

In one day we have questioned our safety. We wonder when it will happen again. We beg to know why.

One moment can change everything. One word. One compromise. One gift. One heart. One day.

We do not forget.

Pinterest: Do you?

2011-09-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

Do you Pinterest? I'm checking it out, but not sure why I want to spend time doing it. It seems like a cool place to collect things I like. BUT, I already dream of more and sometimes wish I had a much bigger checking account. This might make me feel like I am collecting things I can't or don't have. I think I'm out of the loop still. You know.... New. Is it a place to collect ideas? I am not a really fan of collections. If I am working on a project, then maybe an ideas list. That is good. Not sure here, yet.

The Duggar Family - Character Qualities

2011-08-24T18:19:00.000-07:00

The Duggar Family - Character Qualities

Check this out. I am inspired to model these charter traits to our girls and teach them methodically over time. When there is a teachable moment, I will point out good character. You cannot waste time teaching kids to be good citizens who represent their love for others.

2011-08-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

With many changes this school year AGAIN, I am praying for my girls. Savannah is all set for Jr. High, Ellie is settled in with her new preschool teacher. Then there is Téa who is not settled at all. She is number 6 of 13 overage students at her new school. School starts in three days and we don't know what the plan is for her. God does. I am doing a terrible job letting Him be God. I want to tell the district you can have her next year, I get her this one.

I was so excited for everyone to get started this year and me have two full days to myself for the first time in 12 years. Right now, I am thinking it might be 13 or 15. I don't know, I don;t care, I just want my babies happy and healthy. Pray for Téa and I that she gets settled in soon.

We cannot bring flowers on the first day like we always do when we don't know who they will go to. :( I know God knows, but this mom wants to know too.

Ellie Skye

2011-08-18T08:20:00.000-07:00

My Ellie Skye was tired after church last night. She laid on the kitchen floor and cuddled her binky blankey. I sent her up to put on her jammies. She came down in mine. She said, "Mommy, I am a princess!" Sweet baby girl. Then she went to find her sisters.

This is what I found. Do you adore her like I do? Seriously, I am blessed.

Savannah Goes Shooting with Daddy

2011-07-02T16:15:00.000-07:00

Gun powder and led. Savannah and Scott sing that anthem all the time together. He recently joined the Auberry Outdoor gun club and decided it was time to take Sav shooting. Oh man! She was brave, but very intimidated. I'm sure she will be a seasoned range master before allowed to date. The law enforcement life, right?

Candy Cigarettes & BAD Parenting

2011-07-02T16:09:00.000-07:00

Do you remember candy cigarettes? At our house we thought we were SO bad when we bought those with our own money. We tried to look tough and blend in with the kids who were smoking or the celebrities that were all the rage. I was travelling for work and then enjoying a wine tasting weekend a few months ago. I felt guilty so I ran in Powells Sweet Shop somewhere between San Francisco and Napa. My kids will never be the same.

Journey through the flowers & weeds

2011-06-15T20:15:00.000-07:00

Summer vacation is upon us. I am happy the kids are home. The bickering has started. I am trying to sustain consistency in training them to be young ladies who reflect the heart of God to each other. To love one another first. To be selfless. To be a blessing. All the while that plank in my eye hurts. :)

The expectations I have are unrealistic, ask anyone who is in my daily life. I am challenging myself to take time to e.n.j.o.y my life, my children, my husband. We are so blessed and know it. Life is wild, by choice. Laughter abounds just as promised. I am being taught to sit. Sit and listen. Sit and drink in. Sit and listen. "Be slow to become angry and quick to listen."

These people are gifts shared with me. How am I enjoying them? Slow down mama. Back to the challenge of stewardship. It is not only about money. It is about time, too. What else? hum.

2011-06-02T21:51:00.000-07:00


Baby Téa found some eggs.

I woke up on Easter morning to the giggle of three girls cuddled into a twin bed. They got even sweeter when I went in to hear what they were talking about. Savannah was in the middle telling the little girls about the biblical significance of the day. They were so happy that Jesus rose. They acted like it was the first time they had heard it. I am so happy that I have Savannah and she is a wonderful teacher to the little girls. She fills in for me. She loves deep. She is almost 12.

This was my sweet crew before church. They are a great looking group. I am honored to parent these girls and be a a wife to that good looking hubby.

Ellie is my favorite here. She is hysterical!

Here we are at the Elrod's. We had a great time with the cousins. Ty and Brody were adorable and just getting so big. Fun to hunt with them!

This is the mother load of ALL Easter egg hunts. It is at my aunt and uncles. They do such a great hunt and lunch. We LOVE going to "Uncle Vicki's."

Breathe DEEP, hold on, here WE go!

2011-06-02T20:24:00.000-07:00

Are you ready? Here come some updates. Hold tight, breathe deep, let's do it!

the GREAT pantry, freezer CHALLENGE

2011-04-29T20:03:00.000-07:00

I'll confess right from the start, I love cooking, stockpiling and making my family and friends feel welcome. Doesn't all of life start and finish with food? It does for me. I love to EAT. On a moments notice, I could have a dozen people around my table and feed them without going to the store. Can you tell I might take a little pride in that? I need to be careful. I love life around the table.

Not our family, but it could be.

My outdoor and indoor freezer are stuffed and our pantry is loaded. I go to the store each week for fresh food and dairy items. I do a lot of farmers market spring through fall.

It's full, mine is way more organized.

With all of that said......

We are moving in 29 days. Who wants to move food? Not I.

Challenge: Do not buy meat or pantry items for 29 days. If I run out of pasta, use the pasta maker. If we run out of meat, go vegetarian. If we are out of cereal, make a parfait or oatmeal.

I think I need to add photos of our pantry and freezers tomorrow and then in 28 days. This could be fun. I wonder how much money I won't spend at the store. Could be a great treat at the end of this for the mama who gets frugal. I'll keep you posted.

Easter Eggs for My Babies

2011-04-24T20:41:00.000-07:00

Hands on dad and always around. Super star pops!

Savannah's First Big Girl GOAL

2011-04-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

I love how a life lived in obedience and honor brings lessons full circle sometimes. Note, sometimes. Certainly not, every time.

This entry is an example of how a worried, emotional situation can be blessed and teach our children that they do not always know best. Read on:

Savannah came home from soccer practice sobbing about two weeks ago. She was put in the forward position. She has never played that, she is strong at mid field. She has long legs and loves to run. The pressure to score really overwhelmed her. I told her that her coaches knew better than she did. She was frustrated because she did not know the position. The series of shots below is her scoring the first goal, in the first game she played on this team.

His ways are better than ours. Right? Savannah, remember this lesson. Your confidence and security are NOT your own. I am so proud of you.

Well Rounded Stud

2011-03-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to my super rescue hero! Last week was his birthday and we did take some time to celebrate him. I wanted to share some photos of our life with him over the last year. The one of he and I is at my LIVESTRONG century bike ride last summer. I'm sure he wanted to ride, but he let me. He dealt with kids, he was my SAG support, my cheerleader and my trainer. He stepped aside and let me chase my dream. I'm so blessed!

A dudes' dude. Backpacking with the boys in Zion National Forest for a week. He is cute in his green shirt, huh?

In this photo we were guests at a dear friends family beach house. Scott decided to make dinner. Yes, bacon wrapped scallops. He can cook. Handsome and a great chef (when he wants)!

This was at the end of the Olympic Distance Malibu triathlon. He leads us from the front.

These are our race bibs from the Surf City half marathon. He is sensitive, caring and a wonderful partner to me. Happy birthday to the man of my dreams.

Happy Birthday Lover! Thank you for this life.

Martha Stewart Peanut Butter Granola Bars

2011-03-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I will make the peanut butter granola bars and let you know how they are. We are on the go every single evening with sporting events, practice, dance class, etc. These will be great to pop in a ziploc and go. I like to control the ingredients. Buying them off of the shelf makes me nervous, but I do it all the time.

1 large egg white
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
1/2 cup light brown sugar
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Don't these ingredients look safe? I'll check back soon!

Valentine's Day Evening

2011-03-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

Dinner at the Briner's is becoming a tradition. The kids have so much fun and Johnna is a perfect hostess. The kids made their own pizzas and I made grown up pasta for dinner. We had a blast and LOVE the Briner's! xoxo

Disneyland

2011-03-10T09:18:00.000-08:00

We honored Caleb's rough day with a run. The day was tough, but focusing on something that can make you better, was what we were after. We did have to celebrate with Disneyland! We had a blast. Two days at the Happiest Place on Earth.

The FITZ Girls are in Disneyland

Girls and Grandma in front of Small World

The Fitz and Lodwick girls all glammed up. Tiara's from Erin and lip stain courtesy of me.

Gotta have Mickey ears!

Gigi with the girls

Ellie with McQueen might have been the highlight of the trip. She was fantastic!

Ellie let McQueen wear her ears. Sweet girl.

Surf City Half Marathon

2011-03-09T16:28:00.000-08:00

February 6, 2011 - 6 years later

The Lodwicks ran their FIRST half marathon in honor of our little dude. Great friends, we are honored.

Friends and FCS moms sportin' BLUE for Caleb's eye color. We ran for you sweet boy!

Tore up. Early, foggy, boring course, not trained. Suck it UP!

Caleb's Story (Six Years Later)

2011-02-02T09:21:00.000-08:00

This week has come again. Six years ago we lost our son. Caleb brings my heart such JOY and sorrow. Just saying his name brings such a variety of emotions. This is the first year all of the days of the week lined up just how they did six years ago. Monday, January 31st was surgery day. I buried myself in two hours of spin class. There were about 8-10 times I almost cried during class. It was the exact same time that he was having surgery. My heart was raw. I knew to keep myself busy, but I could not push out the emotion. Tuesday was a good day for Caleb six years ago. We came home from Sacramento, where his neurosurgeon is. His surgery went good and he was so happy after being in such pain. The week ahead was wonderful. He was feeling so good and we got quite a few answers from the neurosurgeon that were so promising. Six years later, Caleb is gone. We have two more children. I thought Tuesday would be okay because it was good the day after surgery. I had an okay morning, the afternoon and evening were hard. I was so short fused. Scott was supportive, but he is in his own funk this week, too.

Wednesday was a great day, six years ago. So good, Téa was conceived (I know, TMI). This year, I hope it is good, but I know the end of the story this time. Thursday was a great day for all of us, six years ago. My fondest memory of the day happened while we were at Savannah's dance class. It went like this. Caleb was sitting on the stool next to Steffani Sanchez and he looked at her and said, "Hi." The funny part about this is a conversation I had with Steffani about a month prior. She was telling me that Caleb had never said "Hi" to her and she was bummed. He knew her well, saw her all the time. He said "Hi" to everyone. That was his word. Guess what happened next, she teared up. She called me later telling me this whole story. Six years ago, I did not see the moment as it was. Today I do.

Friday, the fourth, we went to lunch at Whole Foods, then to Oso de Oro park. It was a beautiful day. Caleb had split pea soup and a bag of BBQ chips. Steffani and her kiddos met us at the park and Erin, James and Lillie Lodwick met us there, too. We had such fun. Gorgeous day. Then it happened.

The rest of the story, I am not ready to tackle. This Friday we are finally ordering Caleb's headstone. It has been a long time for many reasons, I'll give you this girls. It is the last thing I get to do for him.

Sunday, on his death day, Scott and I are running a half marathon in Huntington beach. The Lodwicks are coming. Scott and I are wearing blue for our little dude's gorgeous eyes. Thank you for your love through all of this.

Mini Escape for Vitamin D

2011-01-15T08:20:00.000-08:00

Savannah and I walking on the beach.

Tonight we are heading to Cayucos. Have you seen the weather? 70 today, 72 Sunday and Monday. I am so over the Fresno weather, Monday is a holiday, we are outta here.

Savannah and Brittany in 2004. Britt and Devin were in college.

Sav could do this for hours. She is a beach bum, maybe just a fan of being outside.

My favorite place to run, Morro rock to Cayucos Pier.

Back to Basics: Intentionality

2011-01-04T18:48:00.000-08:00

Here we go New Year! Are you ready for us? I needed another pep talk to myself. What are my goals? What do I want to spend my time doing? Who do I want to become? I don't know about you, but I have to set my mind to the things that I want to be. What ever has my attention is is where I am focused. Multitasking is not all it is cracked up to be. Divided focus cannot be very efficient. Being intentional about how I spend my time does count. Sleep is way overrated when you are in the throws of raising a family, working, training and entertaining a social life. I want to be the best me. Life has happened to me. You know, the unexpected, the tragic. Press on. Grow. Become stronger. Identify your weakness. Press on.

intentional [ɪnˈtɛnʃən^əl]

adj

1. performed by or expressing intention; deliberate

2. of or relating to intention or purpose

3. (Philosophy) Philosophy

a. of or relating to the capacity of the mind to refer to different kinds of objects

b. (of an object) existing only as the object of some mental attitude rather than in reality, as a unicorn in she hopes to meet a unicorn See also intensional

intentionality n

intentionally adv

Philippians 3:12-16

¹² Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. ¹³ Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, ¹⁴ I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

3 take aways-

I. We are not yet there yet.
II. We press on.

III. We strive by grace.

My Cup Runneth Over

2010-12-31T20:36:00.000-08:00

In reflecting upon 2010, I am humbled, honored and hyped up! I think about the journey and continue to hold on to the hem of his garment. Personally, I ventured out for BIG goals. LONG bike rides, semi long runs and lots of glitter and quite a few episodes of breaking up girl fights. This year was full, my cup is full. Despite many, many times of feeling empty. Feeling like I would appreciate someone taking my children away (for a little while), I felt much strain this year. I'd have these coaching talks with myself. Focus. Perspective. Big picture. My life is about this family. My life is to be a reflection of love. I have to live outside myself. I am dependent. I am full. I am in love. My life is great. Focus.

Today is a Gift

2010-12-31T06:47:00.000-08:00

You know that saying, "An Attitude of Gratitude." Gratitude is pursuit of feeling thankful and appreciative. This year I choose to be grateful in my circumstances. This is a big birthday year for me. Is my life how I dreamed it would be while I was in college? Nope. Did we make hard decisions that were not easy, yes. Is it the right thing, hope. The pursuit of a feeling requires action, focus, and a reminder of what you are about. Feelings come and go so quickly, being thankful and appreciative is defined in your attitude. I am still pondering Pastor Dale's message from a couple weeks ago. Here is the slap in the face for that Sunday, "Life trumps mouth." What do you model?

I owe YOU some Christmas Photos

2010-12-30T19:01:00.000-08:00

These photos are all from the fun we had a EPU. Ty is making a handprint craft and I heard Brody say "Anta." First word I heard from that sweet boy. Fun to see their speech development coming along.

This is a shot after Savannah delivered more than 250 books to EPU's resource library for her brother. She is honored to collect each year. It might overwhelm her to go into the library and see the difference we have made over that last four years.

I love Exceptional Parenting Unlimited

Vacation is AWESOME

2010-12-28T08:08:00.000-08:00

I always love the idea of Christmas vacation. Everyone home for days upon days, games, hot chocolate, organizing, running, field trips. I'm still a homeschooling mama at heart, just not the time to do it. The girls were excited for about three hours after school on the last day. Then the arguing started. The next day it was intermittent. It took a couple days and now there is only about one explosion a day with the little girls. Sav is doing great. We have loads of games to play, imaginary restuarnats to run, new things to play outside when the sun is shining. It has been a wonderful vacation.

Today we tear down one tree and try to laugh a lot!

Christmas 2005 and Healing

2010-12-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2005 was the hardest Christmas I have ever experienced. February was horrific. Téa was born in October. These are a few photos of us trying to be "normal." We went to Disneyland for Caleb's birthday. Tried to be at the "happiest place on earth." It was rough. Good for Savannah, though. We are headed back this year for Caleb's going to Heaven day. We are running the Pacific Shoreline race on February 6th, then Disneyland the 7th. Does that sound fun? Caleb loved Disneyland.

I wish I had this shirt for all of the girls. The words are perfect!

Chritsmas Through the Eyes of Kindergartener

2010-12-23T08:19:00.000-08:00

If you may have lost the wonder of Christmas in all of the hustle and bustle, come visit Téa. She is a Christmas present everyday. She is giddy with glee. Every single llittle bit of the season makes her smile. She love the crafts, the productions, the Christmas shows on TV, the trees, the lights. She is in WONDER. If you ask her what Christmas is celebrating, she will tell yoou the whole Christmas story. She loves Mary, she also loves Mrs. Claus this year.

The dress she is wearing was one she picked out. I really tried to rebels and do a mini and boots, nope. She wanted to look like Mrs. Claus. Does it get cuter? She is my Christmas present.

Oh the JOY!

Cross Country 2010

2010-12-20T07:49:00.000-08:00

This is a shot from City Finals! Savannah had a great season. It started off with Scott showing up to school with her running stuff. She didn't really want to run, but Scott showed up on the first day of practice and ran with her. He talked to her about leadership and finishing strong. She has run XC since 3rd grade and is a good runner. She needed to go out and lead her team even if she didn't want to be there. She was playing soccer at the same time, which she loved. She wasn't able to attend all practices, but ran at the meets and finished the season despite growing pains and a not too much desire. However, she got MVP with her speedy 6th grade buddy, Jake Bynum.

This XC season was hard for the parenting skills. We wanted her to run with all that she has. We wanted her to finish strong. She didn't. Teachable moment, right? She did not run with all of her heart, but she was obedient and ran. She did enjoy the moments, but you know, it is hard to lace up when you don't want to. I'm so proud of her for leading her team, finishing her running season at FCS. Love this girl. Super proud to be her mama.

Dylan & Brayden Turn 1

2010-12-12T21:52:00.000-08:00

Our God babies are 1. It cannot be. We got to celebrate their Fresno birthday at our house. It was a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse theme. They were perfect!

Do you love them as much as I do?

Spoonful of Sugar Yummies

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was fun this year and really easy. I am generally opposed to the "kid table" but this year it sure was helpful. I made it an activity table and set it with their tableware. They hung out, colored, tried on some of the items Téa made at school, read Thanksgiving books and chatted. If you are an adult, you can read past this and read, "they left the adults alone to eat and talk." We had a great brunch. The every faithful breakfast casserole was delicious. I did get a little crazy and do one with chorizo. Have you ever read the nutrition label? Oh my.

Had to play a little Just Dance 2 after we ate. Fun game! Look at the picture below, the kids are into it! This is my favorite holiday. It is family, food, gratefulness. NO commercialism. We celebrated each other, celebrated the year, enjoyed our blessings.

My Ballerina

2010-12-08T06:57:00.000-08:00

Téa is such a sweet girl. She came out of the womb loving glitter, lip gloss and ballet. My other two girls love tap more than ballet. Can you imagine why? I can, I love tap more than ballet. Téa Quinn is focused in dance class, irritated by other little girls interrupting her, she copies Miss Jeanne from her pointed toes to her delicate little fingers. Here are some ballet photos from the end of October.

(Forgive the photo quality, I was dodging walls, windows and kids)

LIVESTRONG + Shutterfly Christmas Cards

2010-12-04T16:59:00.001-08:00

Bright Yellow Snowflake LIVESTRONG Holiday 5x7 folded card

Unique party invitations and greeting cards by Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

LIVESTRONG + Shutterfly Christmas Cards

2010-11-27T08:08:00.000-08:00

I love sending Christmas cards! Better than sending, I love receiving the mail each day in December. The mailbox is full of photos from friends and family. It brings me great joy and the girls LOVE getting them, too.

I have ordered Christmas cards from several vendors over the years. I have paid designers, too. I am picky about print quality and especially at Christmas time, I would really like to have an original design. Shutterfly has great photo cards, most importantly, they have a ton of designs to choose from.

This year I really want to use the LIVESTRONG cards. I participated in the LIVESTRONG challenge San Jose and rode my bike on an amazing journey. As I trained I kept my dad in my heart. He lost a lung cancer battle. On event day, I rode with survivors and other emotionally invested cancer fighters. What the LIVESTRONG foundation does for cancer patients, survivors and the world is inspiring. Go check it out. Shutterfly offers great design and pricing for LIVESTRONG and I am still in this fight.

Our family, the five of us under this roof, are all about family, fitness and fun. Taking care of our health is important, we have a life to live.

Also, each year I order the grandmas calendars from Shutterfly. If you know me, I am a procrastinator. Shutterfly ships QUICK. That is important to me. I use photos from the previous year and put them in the corresponding month for the coming year. They are really like a memory book collection throughout the years. I began to get jealous and started ordering one for myself. They are very inexpensive and have sales all of the time. I did try to go a less expensive route for one year and returned them. The quality was terrible. I am a Shutterfly fan. They have lots of choices and that makes me happy. If you want to see one of ours, come on by.

Simply Thankful

2010-11-25T07:21:00.000-08:00

As I meander down this road of intentional living, I wrestle with my flesh. By nature, I am a people pleaser. I do not want to disappoint. I have high expectations of myself and of others. Today, I am thankful for my hubby who is a perfect balance. Today and everyday, I am thankful for the conviction and model that has come from God to spend time in relationship. Spend my life being, not doing. Who can I build relationship with today?

As the rat race of shopping, parties, programs begin, let me be diligent about what is most important. Am I embracing my family, showing and sharing others love? Intentional about my daily life and how I choose the activities for our family. Intent. Simple. Finding affirmation in those the keeper my heart.

Celebrating family and friends today. My door is open.

A Slow Walk Down Memory Lane 1

2010-11-22T19:00:00.000-08:00

I am going to take some time over the next week or two to share some images of my sweet boy. His birthday is coming up and I love to celebrate his life. Annually we collect books around his birthday in an effort to give back. The picture at the top is right after he had his shunt put in the first time. You must know that we loved the relief the shunt provided, but we really loved the mohawk.

Savannah and Caleb in Disneyland. He was able to go 2 or 3 times.

He had the best eyes. Seriously, the best.

My dudes in their matching hats.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-20T14:17:00.000-08:00

I am so pumped for Thanksgiving this year at our house. We are hosting 18-20 guests for brunch. Turkey Trot early, breakfast casserole, God sons, family. Does it get better than this?

Sweet & Sassy Spa Party

2010-11-11T08:07:00.000-08:00

This is long overdue. I actually thought I blogged it already, but I didn't. Téa wanted mani's and pedi's and zebra, thus the Sweet & Sassy Spa was open for business. She turned five and I thought a party like this needed to be small in number to give the attention needed. Of course, I had help, Johnna with Spoonful of Sugar, was the brain behind the color scheme and candy bar. Savannah helped me with sewing. Sweet girl was sewing at 6:30 in the morning before school that day so we could be finished.

I borrowed the pink fabric from Nina, she had it from her Pinkalicious party. Thanks girl. Let me know if I can share anything back.

Candy bar was a hit. Pink and black carmel corn, yum! The treat bags I ordered and they were awesome. In the bags were a pink nail file, super cute polish and a fantastic zebra bow with rhinestone made by Bows or Knot. The girls also took home sleep masks that read "Beauty Rest." One of the birthday girl's new friends mom offered to make the cake. I had NO idea she was so talented. Very nice of her to offer. I am a bit of a cake snob and this was fantastic. Thank you Lisa Hergenrader (I could not find her anywhere online, sorry).

This is where we mini spa pizzas, chatted and waited for our appointments with the Savannah and Katie Coleman. Here they also munched on strawberries and yogurt covered pretzels. While we waited we also played Put the Lipstick on Daddy, similar to Pin the Tail on the Donkey. The girls used their sleep mask for a blindfold, while my husband sat patiently for smattering of lipstick on his face. What a trooper?

This was a fun part of the night. Look at the laughs!

These girls had so much fun. Let's pose it out, ladies.

Katie and Savannah had a schedule and the spa ready. Foot soaking tubs, magazines and books to read. Perfect.

This is Sav and Katie. They ran the spa, calling for girls and giving mani and pedi's all night. They worked really hard. They were so busy, I felt bad. I think I needed one more 6th grader. These girls were patient and selfless, for sure.

The birthday girl soaking her puppy paws

My favorite shot of the night. The spa girls, Georgia, Lillie and Téa

Waiting patiently for their appointment, Kennedy and Hannah. They were reading books and giggling.

Did I mention they got zebra stripes on their nails?

Téa and Julianne

We had so much fun. The girls giggled all night. My little one was celebrated and we made some great new pals and celebrated with our old pals who are really family. We love you all, thanks for coming!

What's For Dinner

2010-11-10T18:05:00.000-08:00

With plans to grab chicken bowls tonight after a cross country race, we rerouted to Costco so I could continue my multi-tasking day. Téa wanted beef jerkey, I wanted easy dinner. Can you even call Costco dinner? The girls picked hot dogs, one picked cheese pizza. I also let them get a berry sundae. Holy cow, we have not had dessert in weeks. Splurge. Not healthy. Tomorrow is a NEW day for them. Is this a place for online confession? No, but what do you do for convenience sometimes? Tonight was easy. Easy is hardly ever the best. I'll work harder tomorrow.

Kindergarten is Amazing

2010-11-05T21:58:00.000-07:00

My sweet girl is a young kindergarten student. Against many educators and loved ones advice, can you believe Scott and I sent her to school. Her age may not be an issue until later, but right now Kindergarten does r*o*c*k! Here are some photos to prove it. I only wish you could see the art work, hand made books and carefully penned homework assignments, weekly newsletters, and personal notes.

Her new BFF. Téa would eat her for lunch if she could.

Saturday Night Live Halloween

2010-11-05T21:13:00.000-07:00

I have dreamt of this part for a l*o*n*g time. There are many, many more pictures on facebook. I wish I had pictures of all of the great costumes. There are many on facebook. You can go there to see more. I want to dress up as a SNL character all the time now. There are so many. Cheers to a great party!

Delicious Dish, Mary Katherine, Sally O'Malley

**ck in a Box, Canteen Girl, Bobbi and Marti Culp

Sally O'Malley and Sloppy Joe

Everytime the Lodwicks BLOW it out. Seriously, Lunch Lad and Sloppy Joe. James wore those darn gloves all night. The mole was nasty.

Cajun Man & Gilly

Coffee Talk Linda & Mary Katherine

Friendship Celebration

2010-11-03T14:53:00.000-07:00

A-Ha! I have another reason to have a party. Free Printables from Tom Kat Studio. Savannah loves owls, I love fall, we both love celebrating friendship. We are having a Friendship Craft Day. Girls can invite some buddies over who love to craft and we will celebrate friendship in the month of November. We are thankful. Any craft ideas? I do want to make turkey finger puppets for our Thanksgiving table. I'm looking forward to this party. The greatest of these is, LOVE. We LOVE our friends.

I'm in Love

2010-10-29T18:04:00.000-07:00

We have been at The Dance Studio for 11 years with the girls. This is one of my favorite parts for the little girls. Ellie is a fairy and Téa is a pirate here. For Halloween she will be Alice and Savannah is the Mad Hatter. Fun, fun, fun! My girls have the best teachers in the valley. I am super picky, if you didn't know, about dance. I'm enamored, still.

Mary vs. Martha

2010-10-24T15:52:00.000-07:00

Wow. Where am I? This weather takes away my mojo. I want to lay around. Bake. Make soup. I would love to organize a closet. Make a Christmas list. Sell some stuff on craigslist. Pull some weeds. Nope, laying on couch. Watching my baby. Enjoying her. Not running. Not doing much. Hum, where did I go? When you know better but don't do better, how do you justify? Am I lazy? It is the Sabbath. Right? I'm so challenged by God's word to not be idle, to be intentional, to be salt and light. When I am in this *mood* I have to remember Mary. She sat at Jesus' feet. You can't and shouldn't be Martha first. Grappling with this, Mary vs. Martha. Can I be Mary first and Martha second? Martha is my nature, Mary is my desire. I guess I need to remember Mary more often. She seeks relationship with Jesus first. Sit quietly. Intend to know Him better.

Savannah and the Owls

2010-10-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Do you know how much Savannah loves owls? She was sucked in by a 17 novel series this summer and raced to the finish so she could beat the movie release. I love this reader I have on my hands. It was so intentional when she was a baby. I wanted my kids to be readers, it is a wonderful past time and makes school a bit easier.

This summer we were at the Fresno Zoo watching the bird show for the 99th time. It was fresh for Sav this year because of the owls. At the end she was able to pose for a few photos.

The movie Legend of the Guardians proved to be magical for her, even though it only covered the first three books. I'm going to have this photo enlarged and put on canvas for her for Christmas. She will love it. Love my girl!

Whippy Cake

2010-10-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

Have you seen Whippy Cake? I know you were looking for a cake recipe. Nope. Cute hair candy. I'm in love with this super cute blog and her work. Watch out girls on my Christmas list.

Dream Vacation

2010-10-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

I need to know what your favorite vacation has been? I need a mental escape. Dreaming of an all inclusive resort, where everything is done for me. I think I need respite. Not an hour or three. I need four days. No plans, no demands, no expectations, nothing. I want a suntan, a DVR loaded with my favorite shows and a trainer that will kick my booty like Bob and Jillian. That sounds amazing.

Where is your favorite vacation spot for relaxing?

Contemplating Stewardship Again

2010-09-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

Sinner by nature and choice. Who has kept their hands pure and clean. No one. Stewardship. How do I spend my time, gifts, money, etc. Can I help others get their Daily Bread? How can I be more generous? Give. Give. Thankful. Live simply. I am pretty darn stubborn about being high maintenance. I think it is a waste of time and kind of embarrassing when it comes to God's perception of me. I'm not against taking care of yourself and helping you to feel confident. I am against using God's gifts to me for things that do not bring Him glory.

Do I want to go to Cabo? Yes. Is that a way to steward my time and finances? I could really spend time thinking about this. Building healthy relationships. Yes. God is about relationship. Taking money for a treat for myself. Rough. I'm certain, God (Daddy) would want me to treat myself. Dads love. Dads give gifts. The flip side of this is, where is my generosity at? Who have I served? Who have I blessed? Is my giving tank empty or full? I have no answer. I have no vacation reservations. I'm still here in the trenches. Pursuit.

s.i.m.p.l.e.

g.i.v.e.

Celebrity Sitings in Malibu

2010-09-28T06:44:00.000-07:00

When Scott said he wanted to do a tri in Malibu all I could think of was Matthew Mc Hotty and Jennifer Lopez. Matthew does the race every year. My new sis wanted me to break the news to him that he waited too long for her and she got married in January. Funny.
After getting there and looking at the event schedule we saw that there is a celebrity event. They don't want to race with the civilians. Lame, but understandable. The celebrity slot was Sunday and we had to leave Saturday for my brother's b-day party.
We did see a couple brave celebrities. I got fired up while waiting at a food truck that was in The Next Great Food Truck on Food network, I saw that unmistakable ponytail. It is PAUL MITCHELL. Who knew at that moment that Sav would get her hair cut and share a celeb moment.

Then my favorite Bachelorette couple, Trista and Ryan were spotted by my terribly inappropriate lens for the occassion. Ryan is a stud, he competed in Scott's distance. The celebrity distance was half the distance. I did see pictures after the event and Terri Hatcher was there and a lot of others. No birthday parties next year.

Don't you recognize that ponytail?

Zac Brown Band

2010-09-26T18:04:00.000-07:00

Zac Brown Band~ Such fun with my girl! I only know two songs, Chickenfried and Toes. The concert was great. It was her first.

Malibu Triathlon

2010-09-24T13:25:00.000-07:00

Summer has come and gone and it is full throttle race season here. Scott did his second Olympic distance race for the year. The first one was Wildflower, which was a beyond difficult course and weather conditions. Bring the Nautica Malibu Tri and it is an entirely different scenario. At our house we are not very good at training. We stay conditioned, but honestly not one of us has stuck to a training plan. There are a number of excuses I could give you, but excuses are not really anything I like to spend time on. Malibu was perfect. The course was flat, the weather was amazing. Can you believe there was no draft while he rode. Only in a dream. Our long time buddy told Scott, "If you would train, you would be an animal." Scott was a little bit worried about the .9 mile ocean swim because he had never swam in the ocean before. Wildflower was the same way, no lake swims prior. Psycho swimmer. The bike and run were great and his swim split surprised him, good times. Here are few shots of the super star. (Can you tell my dude makes me smile?)

New bike pumped up and ready to rock at 5:45 a.m.

Team Fitzgerald

Coach Todd Waldner and Scotty potty

Rockin' the bike, smiling for the shot.

One of my favorite race shots ever. Caleb shows. I love it. When Caleb passed away, racing became therapy.

So proud. Leading my example. Way to go Hubs. I love YOU!

Note to Self

2010-09-14T14:29:00.000-07:00

Note to Self:
Remember what counts.
Remember to be thoughtful.
Remember to lower yourself.
Remember to be a model to those I influence.
Remember to slow down.
Remember to show honor.

When life distracts you from what you intend to create, love, inspire and grow, STOP. Rest, recover, and redirect your focus. Loving this family. Loving my friends. Relationship. Oh man, this is what I am about.

Fly Lady. Is she a FLY lady?

2010-09-01T16:05:00.000-07:00

Who is a fly lady? Do you fly lady? Thinking about jumping in with her. Who has tried? How long did you stick with it? I'm contemplating a relationship with her.

Running and Cycling, Oh my.

2010-08-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

The breakdown has begun. My body is pooping out. I am not old, I am not old, I am NOT old (insert throwing a f*i*t)! I've been running a bit more lately and trying to be a touch faster. Allright, interval training is a bit of harder work. I think that age can defy the body if well taken care of. Time for ice and a good nights rest.

I Will Bring Praise

2010-08-26T06:32:00.000-07:00

This song challenged me to get out of my own head, my thoughts. Do you ever throw yourself a pity party? I feel like I get in and out of it quick, but this song makes me want to jump around and celebrate. Go find the song, it brings peace. Get off your mat, no being stuck.

This is my prayer in the desert
And all that's within me feels dry
This is my prayer in the hunger in me
My God is a God who provides

Verse 2:
And this is my prayer in the fire
In weakness or trial or pain
There is a faith proved
Of more worth than gold
So refine me Lord through the flames

Chorus:
And I will bring praise
I will bring praise
No weapon forged against me shall remain

I will rejoice
I will declare
God is my victory and He is here

Verse 3:
And this is my prayer in the battle
And triumph is still on it's way
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ
So firm on His promise I'll stand

Bridge:
All of my life
In every season
You are still God
I have a reason to sing
I have a reason to worship

Verse 4:
This is my prayer in the harvest
When favor and providence flow
I know I'm filled to be empited again
The seed I've recieved I will sow

First Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-23T16:37:00.000-07:00

The first day was perfect. The outfit rocked, the girl ate breakfast, slept well and was super excited to get to school. When we parked f.....a.......r........ away her tummy started to hurt. I asked her if she was nervous and she said, "I think so." Do I love her? Yep. I told her when we get to the school sign, we will pray. That did not help her nerves. She was carrying her backpack and a big bunch of flowers for her teacher, we plowed ahead. We met the infamous teacher, hung up the back pack and toured the classroom. When she found the bathroom, she went in and locked the door. Upon coming out, she declared, "my tummy doesn't hurt anymore." Good news!

Morning beauties with binks. Yikes, we said we would take them away today. Mama is not emotionally strong enough today.

My front row girl. Class looks tiny, perfect.

And were out!

Our Hope Starts Kindergarten Tomorrow

2010-08-22T20:58:00.000-07:00

The day Téa was born we had a glimpse of hope restored after loss. We did not know she was a girl, and boy is she? This girl gave hope to a sister. She gave hope to parents. She looks eerily like her brother. She is a constant reminder our our journey. She is JOY! Have a wonderful day, sweet girl!

Menu Planning and Wipe Off Weekly Board

2010-08-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

School is in, the bell is ringing. I gotta get this house organized, this life organized, these people organized. I get kind of stuck when I feel overwhelmed. Ran across this today over at Organizing Junkie. It is cute and super practical. You can find the DIY over here.

Weekly Menu
Monday- Beef Stew (home made but was in freezer) and fresh corn bread.
Tuesday- Turkey Tacos, Black Beans, Brown Rice, Salsa and low fat Tortilla chips and watermelon margaritas. (Froze fresh watermelon yesterday dreaming of a yummy margarita)
Wednesday- Baked Chicken Parm over whole wheat pasta and green salad (starting here, Scott works 11 days straight, 4 of which are 15 hour days)
Thursday-Chicken Enchiladas and Taco Salad
Friday-It's the weekend, right? Clovis Farmer's Market, maybe.

I would really like to try my two year old bread machine. Any ideas?

2010-08-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

When this cheesball went to heaven I was pregnant and did not know it yet with this sweet girl.

I was SCARED. I did not want to loose again. I did not think I could do it. Téa Quinn has been evidence of such promise, hope and love. Growing her in my belly was a scary time. We have been especially blessed by this little love. It is time for kindergarten. What? How can that be? I thought I was nervous.... Reflecting back, how can I be nervous when I have already journeyed? He is faithful. He does not let a life go uncounted. He has my life and uses it for His glory.

We love you sweet baby.

Training: A Mental Workout

2010-08-10T07:50:00.000-07:00

Definition of Training:

A) activity leading to skilled behavior

B) the process of bringing a person, etc., to an agreed standard of proficiency, etc., by practice and instruction

Some Quotes:

I hated every minute of training, but I said, "Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion."

Muhammad Ali

On the mountains of truth you can never climb in vain: either you will reach a point higher up today, or you will be training your powers so that you will be able to climb higher tomorrow.

Friedrich Nietzsche

Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not act rightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have those because we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.

Aristotle

I'm wondering if you ever get to have a rest day. My running training plan gives you a rest day after a long run. My body has to take a beating before it gets one, lousy day off. I am thinking a lot about training. What about spiritual training? Are you ready for a race? Have you trained in such a way to get the prize? Or are you going cross the line as the last runner? At least you will cross, but what are you modeling for your loved ones? I want my girls to finish the race in front, strong and not winded. What if they get off the run course? We have to train them, when you are trained you may choose to get off course, but you know that race course. You know how to get back. What about financial training? Am I stewarding properly? Are my choices aligned with my heart?

My girls, my sphere of influence, those who watch from afar, deserve to see me training. Training myself to be prepared. Loosing a three year old child gives a lot of captives reason to get out of shape. By no means am I saying grief is wasted time. I am saying to allow God to shape you through brokenness. Training comes from a weak spot. Exhausted. Broken. Needy. Training is an activity. It is a mental decision to move. I want to get better. Pursue the things of God that make me stronger.

For me this is a brain vs. heart issue. My flesh is weak, but I can choose to train.

Devil Wears Prada

2010-08-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

Today, okay this week, has been rough. Ellie is up until 10:00 if I give her a nap and 7:30 if I don't. Tonight Savannah is at my moms for a slumber. Téa and Ellie fell asleep at 7:40. Are you kidding? I am in love with the way this night is shaping up. I had forgotten I recorded this movie. I have NEVER seen it. I know I live with my head in the sand. It is great. Did you like it when you saw it 5 years ago?

Discipline is a Choice

2010-08-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

tick tock. tick tock. dishes? toilets? laundry? gym? time with friend who needs to connect? time seeking the One who seeks me? cuddling my girls? hot date with my hubby? How do I prioritize my day? All of these things are important. I'm "off my rocker" if any of them goes neglected for too long.

I started toying with this idea of "Intentional Living" about a year and a half ago. I try to not get sucked into life and instead drive my days. I never sit on the couch by nature, BUT Téa needs me to cuddle her and Scott needs me to watch a movie or comedian with him once in awhile. I have to choose a behavior that is not what I want to do, to get a result that meets my priorities. Where I put my focus, gets my attention. I will not be robbed of a life by putsing around. Tomorrow is not promised, live today.

"Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit." Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.

James 4:13-14.

2010-07-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

Gotta go to the beach. These pictures are of Savannah. Such fun memories, off to make some more.

SPOILED: Privileged

2010-07-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday, while we are doing this (above photo). My littles will be doing something for the first time. Here is where the spoiled part comes in. Scott and I have never left our girls with anyone, other than their grandma's for a long day. Scott, Grandma Laurie, Gigi or I are always with these kiddos when something calls us out for an extended day or weekend. We have had plenty of amazing girls hang out for a few hours (read 3-5 tops) while I work, but I did not have anyone in my back pocket for this weekend. Nervous. Guilty. Desperate.

My dear friend Erin's mom called and said she wants the girls. Seriously? Erin and her precious little people will be in town and Heniya and Papa want my twerps to come over. I asked her if she realized that we will drop them off at 7:00 a.m and could be gone until 4:00? She was giddy. She makes my heart so happy. I was able to see where Erin gets it. This family makes me relax. They are generous, supportive, loving and seem to know that family is first ALL the time. My girls are so excited. Erin's girls are so excited. Luke will be, too, when we arrive. :)

I have been spoiled with an amazing life that allows me to be with my girls all of the time. We do life together. I could not be more peaceful with leaving them Saturday to spend time cheering for Savannah in the sweltering valley heat. This is the FINALS for her rec league. She is rocking the summer swim circuit.

Family Heart Beat

2010-07-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

You know being a family who relies on God for direction, healing, sustainability, will power, hope and a million and one other things, this past weekend summed up a lot for me. Since my dad passed away in 2001, I feel like my life changed. My dependence on the promises of God to be true became very real. I processed this, God's promises are either true all the time or never. So, in my desperate need to understand why my dad died. Why did he only live with knowing he had cancer for 19 days? Why were we left here devastated? I had to rely on what I knew. I had to hang on to what I knew in my heart and in my head. God was my hope. We discovered the LIVESTRONG foundation after looking for a place to donate money in my dad's memory. Who knew my brother, husband, daughter and myself would be cyclists.

Who knew four short years after my dad died, we would loose our son Caleb unexpectedly at the age of 3. If ever, I had everything within me questioned, torn and desperate, it was this time. Choose to believe in the promises of God again? He was faithful in walking with me each day as I missed my dad, watched my mom cry, my children grow. Could He be faithful in this? With a resounding YES, he could be. He whispered very, very quietly in my ear. I had to be still and listen. Draw closer. The day we told Savannah that her brother died was horrific. She was 5. He was her best friend. It sucked.

We had to LIVESTRONG. Not one time in scripture could I find, "be a victim or loose hope." Never, my story is a reflection of God's grace. I choose to LIVESTRONG. My husband displays the choice to LIVESTRONG. Being a man of courage and strength. He is our leader. He provides a great deal of protection for our family. He rocks. He models LIVESTRONG. Stay the course.

BUMMED, but the goal is in sight.

2010-07-07T19:15:00.000-07:00

I was not like the photo, I thought it was funny. Saturday I was out for a fun ride with friends on our bikes. I headed up the hill by Millerton by Broken Bridge. When I dropped gear, my chain fell off. I totally crashed. Lame, I know. Clipped in my pedals, I fell over into the lane and landed on my knee and knocked my friend Steffani of of her bike. I know. Poor girl. She was passing me and got tagged. Sorry sweet friend. I put my chain back on and rode 40 more miles. Later that night, my knee started to nag. I ignored. Sunday, ignored. Monday, reality sinking in. I better ice it. It will be fine, right? I have my HUGE event on Sunday. I am riding 100 miles with one KILLER hill at mile 70. I've been training since December. Mostly mentally, but physically, too. Tried to get into the doctor yesterday, full. It is so tricky because I only wanted a doc to say that if I did the bike ride I would not permanently damage the knee. Yes, I am not ready to stop running and riding. So, it had to be the right doc. A doc that had a little bit of psycho brain. One that knew me well enough to know, that I'm doing the ride, even if I have to modify. Today, I got in to my doctor from high school and college that is in Sports Medicine and one of the docs for Fresno State football. He is used to dealing with psycho brains. He assessed the damage is definitely not permanent, but needs time to heal. Since, I don't have much time, we made some deals. He gave me a regimen to follow and a strict warning, "No climbing, no 100 miles and be ready to rehab the following weeks." I agreed, except I am not sure if it is possible to not climb. I'll find out. Anyway, off to ice. Feeling a little fragile and I am way too young for that, right? LOL! LIVESTRONG is on and I am fired up!

Intentional Living: Swim Meet Dinner

2010-07-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Our family spends a lot of time poolside at swim meets during the summer. Savannah's team this year competes out of Fresno. They are all in the valley, but often are an hour each way. We usually leave the little girls home, but tonight they are coming. The dinner hour is the hard part. Savannah has to wait until about 9:00 p.m. for dinner and Scott and I can hang, too. Tonight bringing the little girls, I have had to get creative. We are making burritos to go this afternoon. We shall see. I probably should cave and buy snack bar dinner or fast food. I sometimes try to hard to make as much homemade healthy food as I can, so when I cannot my guilt is non existent. Or when they want a snow cone at the swim meet, I can say "absolutely!"

The balance of life is in each little decision. Schedule. Quiet time. Exercise. Nutrition.

Stewardship is much more than just a financial term. How am I stewarding our daily lives? Saying no more than yes to busyness. Choosing food items in the cleanest form as often as possible. The little daily decisions are sometimes more important than the big ones. Passivity is draining. Go, be, do.

Off my soap box. Anyone care to share what your soap box issue is right now?

My Girls and Recital

2010-07-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

I am madly, deeply in love with these little people in my life. This picture was taken after Téa danced her cute little booty off. She loves dress up, glitter, hot pink lipstick and mascara. This world is one I am so comfortable in. I love to lace up my tap shoe laces and dance. Such a happy place for me. I have such fond memories growing up dancing. Well mostly fond. There are the negative weight issues that come along with dancing, but it is true sometimes. You gotta be fit. I love living this life with Téa in the studio. Savannah danced until two years ago when she found such affirmation in the triathlon world. She is driven and competitive. She actually is good at racing. That world I one I hand over to Scott, not without a little hen pecking though. They are a dynamite team.

Anyway, just wanted to take a moment to share some recital photos from this year of my girl. Way to go sweetness.

She is scrumptious. I love her.

Thankful

2010-06-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

This last year we have been blessed to get to know a family that beyond measure blesses us with friendship and hospitality. We are quite a loud, expressive and opinionated family. To host us, is a trick. We have gone twice to their vacation home with them over the last several months and it is a blessing. We escape all that clouds us in our daily lives and enjoy the grandeur of the fresh ocean air and expanse of the blue water. My favorite place in all the world just might be sitting on the balcony with a cup of coffee, wrapped in the cozy blanket from the couch, thanking the Creator for my life and the gifts of friendship.

This photo is taken from the grassy area in front of the house. Scott shot a few while we were out front.

Another fav spot. I was chatting on the phone, checking on Papa. xoxo

Dear Friends.....

2010-06-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

We got to spend an evening with two dear families that really have our hearts. We have known them since Savannah was born. I won't go into too many details, but Scott and I love, love, love these families for many reasons. For some of the outrageous memories, for some of the tears shared, for some of the times we don't care to relive. We had not seen the Duncan's in a LONG time. It was so fantastic, it was like putting on a warm, cozy coat on a cold winter day. Love. We get to see the Sanchez's racing around at swim or triathlons, but a quiet, okay not quiet, evening, eating and enjoying one another was long over due. Here are some photos to commemorate the festivities:

If you know Glen, this is priceless. Love you all, let's do this more often! Missed you guys. xoxo

Candy Land Party

2010-06-14T15:42:00.000-07:00

What a joy it is to have three girls. God has blessed us beyond belief. Today we have a home full of life, love and joy. Savannah picked the theme for her birthday and we ran with it. We did decide it ended up being too much work, but it was fun. The part that made it hard, was that we could not set up too much before the day of because of having Ellie here. At her age, she wants all things party, candy, etc. So, set up got to be a bit nuts. Anyway, here is the delight.

This is a shot of the banner and candy bar prior to Johnna getting her hands on it. Here it is after.

Frosted Cakery = Perfection

Peppermint Relay (peppermint on a spoon)

Johnna whipped up these white chocolate dipped strawberry marshmellows with a candy cane decoration after she got here. Seriously? These were a fun treat in Peppermint Forest.

Building gingerbread houses under the Gingerbread Tree

Gumdrop Mountain (Guess how many gum drops are in the jar?)

The party people

The Happy Birthday Girls!

Angel Babies Walk 2010

2010-06-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

This walk is dear to my heart. The first time we did it was in 2005, just 4 months after Caleb died. It was so emotional that I did not want to do it again. The thought that every single mom, dad, family that crossed the finish line had a similar story of loss is quite a bit to digest. This year we went to support our friends who lost their daughter in February. There is also a dear family from church that was there to honor their sweet girl. In this journey of losing a child I have learned to operate not in my own strength, my own physical thoughts, my own courage. To walk forward and plow through sadness, despair and loss is to give your emotions away. Let God hold them, let Him channel them into your story, your influence. Reflect His character.

Gigi, Savannah, Téa, and Ellie post race. It was a nice 5K, Savannah ditched us and went for a good run.

Littles doing the cake walk. I love that they are holding hands. They do that a lot.A shot of the back of our shirts. We had these made for Scott's marathon marking the one year date of Caleb going Home.

This is Savannah's note to her brother that she attached to her balloon. Each of the girls wrote a note and sent a lot of love to their brother.

Savannah is such a sweet sister, but she is also a typical almost 11 year old. The walk and balloon launch reminded her of who she is and what her story tells.

Here she was pretty upset, it was time to go. It is so wonderful to be able to honor those you love. Take time. Don't push it away. Embrace brokenness.

Organizing Junkie Free Stuff

2010-05-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

Today is Savannah's last day of school. That usually means we run full throttle in to summer plans. This year we are consciously trying to go slower. Hard to imagine the Fitzgerald's going slower, but slower for us just means s*l*o*w*e*r. I was checking in with some of my fav bloggers this morning and found some great things to help get our summer organized and reflective.

Organizing Junkie has a lot more really cute things to download. Great teacher gifts, tags, etc. Too late for us as today is it. Teacher gifts done! (One more perk of homeschooling, end of year teacher gift. What would I treat myself to? Hum.)

Godly Character Traits

Family Chore Chart

Honey Do List

Mom's Latte List

Daily Health Goals

Fun Shopping Lists

Have FUN!!

Candyland is Coming Together

2010-05-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

Cookies, too? Who knew this party would really take on a life of it's own? This is such fun. I might miss the days of renting a spot, paying a helper and having it outside of our home. Yes, it is easier. For me, it is not more fun or cheaper. Having a party at home is a blast!

Savannah is out of school this Friday and the sewing and recipe testing will begin. For Téa's Pinkalicious party, I was so busy I did not take detailed photos. I need to get a big jump start on this one, as not to forget to document it. Pinkalicious was awesome, but who knew? Very, very few photos exist.

Super excited! Let the sweets come a flood. If you have "Sweet Dreams" please share them with me. I need to attack labels next. Lots of things to label and make cute.

Thank You

2010-05-18T19:22:00.000-07:00

I'm humbled by the generosity and love people are sharing with me and the charity I am riding for. I was nervous to send the request for funds in this economic climate. My request comes from such an honest and raw place. We have to fight back. I know that God can cure, heal, find a cure for cancer. LIVESTRONG walks people through their journey with cancer. They are support. They are also research. If you want to see where the donations go, please visit their site. His character will be revealed in crisis and tragedy. I have written about this before. Who will you be when tragedy hits? That moment and the days, weeks and years following will reflect what you have stored in your heart. My family and I have endured. We have clung to our faith, our hope. We know that we do not have the final say so. I find great FREEDOM in that. If I was in control my life would not look the way it does, however my heart would not reflect His either.

Thank you for sharing with me in this LIVESTRONG journey.

Nina and Bakerella... Must Try

2010-05-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon Nina's post about delicious Brookie's, Congo Bars, or whatever they might be called. Did not care as much about the name as I did about the photos and ease of recipe. I took my own photos. You can see their photos at the other sites. :) Bakerella gave two ways to do the recipe, but said to mix by hand was preferable after doing hers with the mixer first and then by hand. I went for it by hand. It is a breeze and therapeutic. I love standing in the kitchen during nap time listening to music. Yum.

Whole wheat flour works, it is all I have. I know what you are thinking. Doesn't the butter distract from the whole wheat flour?Here is the butter, eggs, chocolate chips, vanilla combined, by hand. It was pretty loose. Next I plopped in the flour. Slowly until I had it blended. You do have to spread it in the pan, just like the recipe said.28 minutes later, too many calories to count. Amazing texture and taste. Scott had to work tonight, so I cut out half and sent to the neighbors. It could have been a LONG workout tomorrow. I promise you are wishing you lived next door. HA! Go make them, they really are easy. Here is the recipe.

Congo Bars

2 3/4 cup all purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup butter, softened
1 lb. light brown sugar (Oh my and thank you!)
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
11.5 ounce package milk chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

By mixer:

Sift flour, baking powder and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
Combine butter and sugar using a mixer until blended.
Add eggs, one at a time to sugar mixture, mixing on low in between each addition.
Add vanilla and mix.
Add flour and mix until combined.
Stir in chips and then pecans.

By hand:

Sift flour, baking powder and salt into a large bowl. Set aside.
Stir brown sugar into softened (not melted) butter in another large bowl until butter disappears. You can use the back of your spoon to help incorporate the two together.
Add eggs one at a time to butter mixture and stir well after each egg.
Add vanilla, chocolate chips and nuts. Mix well.
Add dry flour mixture and stir until well combined.

Coat a 13 X 9 pan with non-stick spray and spread batter evenly into dish.
Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until top is golden brown. Make sure you don’t over bake.

Girls On Party Day

2010-05-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

Today we had two very special parties to go to. Ethan Briner had a Mario and Sonic party and Ty and Brody had a Construction party for their 1st birthday. Those are future posts.

What I want to know, is when did my baby get so big? She is a fun Fitzgerald to have around. I love her so much.

Fitz Girls & Ibarra Twins

2010-05-10T20:15:00.000-07:00

We are giddy when they are here. Love you boys!

Wild Flower Tri

2010-05-06T18:02:00.000-07:00

Swim=.93 mile, Bike = 26 miles, Run = 6.2 miles (Terrain was super hilly, lots of trails, choppy, freezing water)

Off to the races. Scott left camp early to go set up and get mentally ready. It was only about 1.5 mile walk to transition from our spot.

Transition area. There were 3000 bikes racked for this race. The swim is usually Scott's strongest leg. Not in this water. Freezing. Choppy. Walking to bike, totally abnormal for this dude.

Missed photos of his bike. We were up at our site.

Scott finishing up. STUD!Téa cheering for her dad, Savannah trying to stay awake. My stroller baby.

Triathlon Season has Begun

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

Our family is pretty active. Scott really set the standard for activity when we were dating. After we were married we spent a lot of time together working out, hiking ad being active. Then four pregnancies, four babies for me. he kept moving. Savannah was five when she followed in her daddy's footsteps and did her first triathlon. A little psycho, maybe. She enjoys it and it training for three sports keeps her heathy and sets an standard for life. She will never lead a sedentary lifestyle because of the example we are and the early start she had. I know all too well what it is like to transform into an athlete at an older age. It takes a disciplined mind, an edgar spirit and support. I'd rather all of our girls start at an early age, so they don't struggle later.

Savannah and Scott have both competed in triathlons this year. I have done the Santa Cruz half marathon in epic weather, but it is done. Savannah competed in Sierra Kids Tri and took 2nd in her age group. She had to race with the 11-12 age group, as USAT has new aging rules. She is still 10. The sweet girl that beat her is from San Jose and we know her from the tri circuit. She is amazing and beat Savannah by 57 seconds. That's a lot in a 28 minute race. Scott competed in one of the most difficult triathlons in the country. The Wild Flower has occurred for the last 28 years and is outstanding. It is so hard. The course really cannot be summarized in a blog post. If you are interested go click around at the site. The pros and elite athletes there are inspiring. People from outside the country come to compete. Here are a few photos of my athletes. They both rocked, I am a super proud wife and mom.

2nd place. See hard work does pay off. Scott's photos deserve a post of their own. Next one!

5 Girls Are a Dream

2010-04-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

Look at my hammock? The smiles and toothless grins make my heart so, so happy.

Georgia Grace (4), Lillian Rose (6 1/2), Téa Quinn (4 1/2), Savannah (10 1/2), Ellie Skye (2 1/2)

Daddy in his Glory

2010-04-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

My daddy spent countless hour in this spot, sitting in this position. We had many, many nights of laughter and deep conversations with him sitting right there. I have had this craving for him lately. Grief, for me, comes in waves. He died in 2001 from lung cancer. I just want to laugh, talk, remember the glory days and see if he is proud of us. I'd assume so, but my dad would tell me.

There are many times in a young girls life that she needs her father. My dad did not miss a beat with me. I was blessed to get so much from him. I feel guilty sometimes because I feel like he gave me his best. He and I were one. On the same page in our thinking, personality and priorities. He did not stir up anger in me, he did correct me, but never with great emotion. Thoughtful reflection.

Where he is sitting is so funny. Looks so trashy. It is the garage. I wish you could see what he was looking at every night when he retreated to the garage. A beautiful 37 Ford Coupe. Beautiful. The garage was his escape. His quiet spot.

I miss that cheesy grin. I can smell him. I wish I could spend time with him. He is my rock star.

Candy Land Dreams

2010-04-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

It is happening. I am starting to dream of Candy Land. Here is some inspiration to get my juices flowing. I am so excited to work on this one and really thankful I don't have a sweet tooth. Good thing this is a salty tortilla chips party. That would be trouble. Savannah and Ellie have total sweet teeth and if you know anything about me and what I allow in our house, you know this sweet tooth is held at bay. Candy Land will be a delight. Starting major blog stalking so I can steal every cute idea. Our party will be outside in mid June. I'm loving it!

Cousin Bath Time April 2010

2010-04-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

2010-04-14T22:21:00.000-07:00

Let me take one minute to tell you how very, very proud of Britt and Aaron I am. Last Saturday afternoon, they invited their friends and families to join with them in dedicating Brayden and Dylan to the Lord. It was more like a time of dedicating the parents and super proud god parents to leading and guiding the boys to follow Jesus. To lead a life that will show them Christ. To choose to model and share this life is one of dedication and selflessness. One that constantly reminds us to "die to self" and put others first. Keep pressing on guys, you bring glory to the King. Thanks for sharing your babies with us. We are honored.

Easter Exposure 2010

2010-04-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

Easter was weird this year. Weird because of the schedule, not weird for the celebration of the day. The good news was, the message never changes. The girls had a great time at church and then celebrating at

Uncle Vicki's.

Garden Planted

2010-04-06T14:44:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband built 2 4X4 raised garden plots for me. Months ago the girls and I picked out seeds and could not pick the exact right time to plant. For the future, we will just buy vegetable plants when they start coming out in the nursery. I have always wanted to grow food. It seems so rewarding, almost like nursing, okay that is a stretch. I grew it and fed it to you, see the connection. :)

Today, I went outside and put all the vegetable seeds in. Added fertilizer, good soil, a little water and sun. We shall see what comes next. I even planted a marigold at the end of each row. I saved the seed packets and will make a little sign for each row so that I know what they are. Sounds good.

I'll post photos when the seedlings peek their little heads out. Right now, it is boring. Tomorrow, the flower seeds go in. Téa wants a flower garden. She is so cute. Love that girl!

2010-04-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

Tightening up the blog this week while I am on vacation. I want to have a good list of the blogs that are updated regularly. I know that not everyone has all of the time that I do (sarcastic tone) to update their blogs, but I am cleaning the list later this week. If you have not blogged in 2010, I am going to bookmark you on my computer to check back, but remove from list. Facebook has made blogging a little boring at times. Facebook is quick and easy. It is hard to beat. Anyway, look for list updates soon. New fun blogs to check out.

Grandma's Birthday and Frosted Cakery

2010-04-04T22:26:00.000-07:00

HaPpY BiRtHdAy Grandma! What a treat to have a Grandma as sweet as Scott's mom. She is perfect for our kids. Her birthday was on Easter and what better way to celebrate that with a cake from Frosted.

Intentional Living-Easter

2010-04-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

Intentional living is not easy, but it is worth it. Scott and I want to leave a legacy of faith, family and fun. Today the girls and I are doing a few Easter celebration crafts and activities. Today we will make Forgotten Cookies.

The girls are also going to build tombs and stones from clay. The clay air dries and they can paint it if they want. We also need to dye eggs and clean the house for celebration time tomorrow. I have loads of coloring pages for the "littles" to do when they get bored. I can assure you this will not be a stree-free day, but really no day is stress free with these little girls in my life. They are a JOY, but work.

We are hosting an Easter evening BBQ. Scott worked 14 hours yesterday, slept 7, work 10 more and then 10 more hours during the day on Easter. I'm doing all of this alone. Intentional, yes. Easy, no.

Remember, we have hope. We don't look back. If you do look back at your past, look at the cross, it covers it all. We are forgiven. Treat others that way. Move forward. Live different, leave a legacy.