I found this talented Elder on YouTube the other night. I absolutely love this song, his arrangement and the harmonizing to it. Thank you to whomever put this up.
The video quality is poor but the music is clear and powerful.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
ELECTION DAY!!
Today was such a thrilling day! I was so excited to vote! Out of pure laziness I have not voted in years. Thankfully last year when I re-did my license I also registered to vote. I'm so glad I did!
I was very involved this past few months in Prop 8 and I am so glad my voice was heard. I am very thankful that I live in a place that I can help make a difference. Last night I re-read all my ballot infor (props and measures) and felt very confident going in today. I dropped Savanah off at school and met Malama at our polling booth. The line moved quickly and we only waited 30 mins.
I can not tell you how thrilling it was for me. I had so much feeling for this election - it is history in the making and I'm very proud to be a part of it. And I double-inked my vote for YES on Prop 8!!
If you haven't gone yet - please go. It's not too late. Let your voice be heard.
GOD BLESS AMERICA!!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Sunday, October 26, 2008
It's been quite a long time since I've done a proper update. Life has been super busy.
Michael - he's been out officially 6 months on Oct. 23rd. He has grown so much spiritually and just has matured tremendously during this time. It's time to send another package but I've failed miserably in making my homemade chocolate chip cookies so Lama has offered her pre-made mix. LOL.. Sad!
Raymond - He's really blossomed this year! He is doing pretty well in school - only having trouble in one class. He's co-captain of the football team and is really giving it his all. Blair has gotten every Friday off during the football season and so far has only missed one game (due to my unfortunate tooth problems!). He's had several injuries with a (i think) torn ligament in his ankle this past 2 weeks. He played offense only this past game but WE WON HOMECOMING!! It was a very exciting game on Friday (I'll post pics. later). He also has a girlfriend now. She's a nice girl from the Nu'umau ward and his family and hers have been friends for years. In fact Lama and her mom grew up in the stake together. This is the first girl he's ever brought around to the family and we've enjoyed her company many times. I was nervous when they first started dating, but both Blair and I have sat down and very frank open conversations with him regarding dating, temptations and such. I was so happy he was honest with me (I'm sure super uncomfortable talking sex with your Aunt!) but he has been accepting of our rules including taking a chaperon with them when their out. So far Chad has gone with them to the movies, to a carnival and he goes with Raymond to Chloe's house quite a lot. She goes with us to Raymond's games and Chad is her game buddy and they have a lot of fun. Her sister has also chaperoned for them when Chad's not available. It's been weird for us and I'm sure for Lama too. But so far they have been enjoying their friendship and from what we can tell it's been nice and easy.
Chad - As mentioned above he's been enjoying the benefits of Raymond's girlfriend. He goes most places with Ray and Chloe and he and Chloe get along great. For his birthday we gave him his own ukulele and it was THE BEST present we ever gave him! Both he, Raymond and Blair play it every single day. Chad has learned so much in the short 6 weeks he's had it. I'm so happy he's developing his musical talent. He's not interested in singing (although he has a really nice voice!) but loves insturments and seems to be a natural on that. He's currently learning Brudda IZ Somewhere over the Rainbow. It sounds great! He's still being lazy in school. He's got a F in Algebra again and it's very frustrating. I've asked many times - do you not understand the work? But he does, it's just he's not doing it. I've already been in contact with his teacher and she gave me great feedback so I was able to go over his work so far with him. It was like a little light bulb going on when we went through just the simple fact to turn in his homework gets him points. DING! He's got a few weeks to bring his F up and I hope he can.
Corina - She is going through that awkward phase where she isn't a teenager yet but still not a little kid. I think she's struggling to find out who she is - really. She is naturally shy, almost paralyzing outside of the family but Blair and I have made a concentrated effort to get her to open up and it seemed to have regressed a bit. The last few months she's had parts in Sacrament programs and has come down with 'Corina's Sunday Sickness' as Chad puts it and not been able to do her part. I hope she'll grow out of it. But on the whole she's doing well and seems to have adjusted pretty well to middle school. She has gotten a lot taller and is so over being in Primary. LOL. 5 months and counting until Young Womens! She will have a blast!
Savanah - She's getting ready to celebrate her 7th birthday on Wed. I can't believe it! Yesterday we took her and the kids to Six Flags Magic Mountain. I had an event for my work there so I worked while Blair took the girls on rides. She brought her friend Shyanne and Savanah, Corina and Shyanne had a great time. She's still having problems with that boy from last year who had a crush on her. But she is fantastic about handling it and told us straight away when he got out of line. I called the Principal and she went and spoke to Savanah and the Principal called me back and told me how articulate and aware Savanah was. The Principal laughed when she told me Savanah told her "He was very inapropriate" but said how wonderful it was that Savanah even knew what that was. Last week was our Primary Program and she gave a wonderful talk on the temple. It was so heartfelt and she cried through it. At first I thought something was wrong, but when I heard her bear her testimony I realized she was crying because she understood what she was talking about. The spirit was so strong during her talk that the Primary President and Bishop acknowledged her talk after the program. And it touched so many in our ward that I had no less than 20 people come up to me after ward and tell me how much her talk and the spirit touched them. It was a wonderful teaching moment for us as well. After church Blair and I talked to her and Chad about why she cried and what makes her cry. We all cried during this wonderful lesson and I'm grateful the Lord allowed us to feel that wonderful spirit.
As for Blair and I we're good. Blair hasn't been working much. But it's been a blessing as I've been working a lot and he's been able to be home with the kids. He's taken over the majority of work at the aprtment. I've been so thankful for his help. I'm busy with work - I had to lay off the majority of my department and it was very sad. Sales are down and my hands are tied on what I can do. There is no money for anything and so I feel like we're just sitting ducks waiting for the our pinkslips to arrive. But I'm trying to remain optimistic and I hope we have a great holiday to bring us out of our slump. Now it's time to gear up for the holidays.
I've spent the majority of the night catching up with everyone's blogs. It's so good to see what the rest of our family and our friends are doing. I'm glad everyone for the most part is doing well.
Michael - he's been out officially 6 months on Oct. 23rd. He has grown so much spiritually and just has matured tremendously during this time. It's time to send another package but I've failed miserably in making my homemade chocolate chip cookies so Lama has offered her pre-made mix. LOL.. Sad!
Raymond - He's really blossomed this year! He is doing pretty well in school - only having trouble in one class. He's co-captain of the football team and is really giving it his all. Blair has gotten every Friday off during the football season and so far has only missed one game (due to my unfortunate tooth problems!). He's had several injuries with a (i think) torn ligament in his ankle this past 2 weeks. He played offense only this past game but WE WON HOMECOMING!! It was a very exciting game on Friday (I'll post pics. later). He also has a girlfriend now. She's a nice girl from the Nu'umau ward and his family and hers have been friends for years. In fact Lama and her mom grew up in the stake together. This is the first girl he's ever brought around to the family and we've enjoyed her company many times. I was nervous when they first started dating, but both Blair and I have sat down and very frank open conversations with him regarding dating, temptations and such. I was so happy he was honest with me (I'm sure super uncomfortable talking sex with your Aunt!) but he has been accepting of our rules including taking a chaperon with them when their out. So far Chad has gone with them to the movies, to a carnival and he goes with Raymond to Chloe's house quite a lot. She goes with us to Raymond's games and Chad is her game buddy and they have a lot of fun. Her sister has also chaperoned for them when Chad's not available. It's been weird for us and I'm sure for Lama too. But so far they have been enjoying their friendship and from what we can tell it's been nice and easy.
Chad - As mentioned above he's been enjoying the benefits of Raymond's girlfriend. He goes most places with Ray and Chloe and he and Chloe get along great. For his birthday we gave him his own ukulele and it was THE BEST present we ever gave him! Both he, Raymond and Blair play it every single day. Chad has learned so much in the short 6 weeks he's had it. I'm so happy he's developing his musical talent. He's not interested in singing (although he has a really nice voice!) but loves insturments and seems to be a natural on that. He's currently learning Brudda IZ Somewhere over the Rainbow. It sounds great! He's still being lazy in school. He's got a F in Algebra again and it's very frustrating. I've asked many times - do you not understand the work? But he does, it's just he's not doing it. I've already been in contact with his teacher and she gave me great feedback so I was able to go over his work so far with him. It was like a little light bulb going on when we went through just the simple fact to turn in his homework gets him points. DING! He's got a few weeks to bring his F up and I hope he can.
Corina - She is going through that awkward phase where she isn't a teenager yet but still not a little kid. I think she's struggling to find out who she is - really. She is naturally shy, almost paralyzing outside of the family but Blair and I have made a concentrated effort to get her to open up and it seemed to have regressed a bit. The last few months she's had parts in Sacrament programs and has come down with 'Corina's Sunday Sickness' as Chad puts it and not been able to do her part. I hope she'll grow out of it. But on the whole she's doing well and seems to have adjusted pretty well to middle school. She has gotten a lot taller and is so over being in Primary. LOL. 5 months and counting until Young Womens! She will have a blast!
Savanah - She's getting ready to celebrate her 7th birthday on Wed. I can't believe it! Yesterday we took her and the kids to Six Flags Magic Mountain. I had an event for my work there so I worked while Blair took the girls on rides. She brought her friend Shyanne and Savanah, Corina and Shyanne had a great time. She's still having problems with that boy from last year who had a crush on her. But she is fantastic about handling it and told us straight away when he got out of line. I called the Principal and she went and spoke to Savanah and the Principal called me back and told me how articulate and aware Savanah was. The Principal laughed when she told me Savanah told her "He was very inapropriate" but said how wonderful it was that Savanah even knew what that was. Last week was our Primary Program and she gave a wonderful talk on the temple. It was so heartfelt and she cried through it. At first I thought something was wrong, but when I heard her bear her testimony I realized she was crying because she understood what she was talking about. The spirit was so strong during her talk that the Primary President and Bishop acknowledged her talk after the program. And it touched so many in our ward that I had no less than 20 people come up to me after ward and tell me how much her talk and the spirit touched them. It was a wonderful teaching moment for us as well. After church Blair and I talked to her and Chad about why she cried and what makes her cry. We all cried during this wonderful lesson and I'm grateful the Lord allowed us to feel that wonderful spirit.
As for Blair and I we're good. Blair hasn't been working much. But it's been a blessing as I've been working a lot and he's been able to be home with the kids. He's taken over the majority of work at the aprtment. I've been so thankful for his help. I'm busy with work - I had to lay off the majority of my department and it was very sad. Sales are down and my hands are tied on what I can do. There is no money for anything and so I feel like we're just sitting ducks waiting for the our pinkslips to arrive. But I'm trying to remain optimistic and I hope we have a great holiday to bring us out of our slump. Now it's time to gear up for the holidays.
I've spent the majority of the night catching up with everyone's blogs. It's so good to see what the rest of our family and our friends are doing. I'm glad everyone for the most part is doing well.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Tag - One Word
Tagged by Nimo! Thanks... Fill in your answer, using only one word. Tag 7 others.
1. Where is your cell phone? DESK
2. Where is your significant other? HOME
3. Your hair color? BROWN
4. Your mother? LOVE
5. Your father? GIVING
6. Your favorite thing? FAMILY
7. Your dream last night? NONE
8. Your dream/goal? HOUSE
9. The room you're in? OFFICE
10. Your hobby? READING
11. Your fear? UNEMPLOYMENT
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? HOME
13. Where were you last night? HOME
14. What you're not? RICH
15. One of your wish-list items? HOME
16. Where you grew up? CALIFORNIA
17. The last thing you did? EAT
18. What are you wearing? PINK
19. Your TV? OFF
20. Your pet? NONE
21. Your computer? COOL
22. Your mood? HURRIED
23. Missing someone? YES
24. Your car? GOOD
25. Something you're not wearing? EARINGS
26. Favorite store? TARGET
27. Your summer? SHORT
28. Love someone? YES
29. Your favorite color? BLUE
30. When is the last time you laughed? TODAY
31. Last time you cried? TUESDAY
I tag: Trisha, Melissa, Katie, Teresa, Tracy, Wendy and YOU!
1. Where is your cell phone? DESK
2. Where is your significant other? HOME
3. Your hair color? BROWN
4. Your mother? LOVE
5. Your father? GIVING
6. Your favorite thing? FAMILY
7. Your dream last night? NONE
8. Your dream/goal? HOUSE
9. The room you're in? OFFICE
10. Your hobby? READING
11. Your fear? UNEMPLOYMENT
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? HOME
13. Where were you last night? HOME
14. What you're not? RICH
15. One of your wish-list items? HOME
16. Where you grew up? CALIFORNIA
17. The last thing you did? EAT
18. What are you wearing? PINK
19. Your TV? OFF
20. Your pet? NONE
21. Your computer? COOL
22. Your mood? HURRIED
23. Missing someone? YES
24. Your car? GOOD
25. Something you're not wearing? EARINGS
26. Favorite store? TARGET
27. Your summer? SHORT
28. Love someone? YES
29. Your favorite color? BLUE
30. When is the last time you laughed? TODAY
31. Last time you cried? TUESDAY
I tag: Trisha, Melissa, Katie, Teresa, Tracy, Wendy and YOU!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
California's Please call!!
Dear Friends,
This is a time for immediate action. While we are working to protect marriage, our legislature has moved forward with more Gay Rights legislation. Presently AB 2567 sits on the Governor's desk, awaiting his signature. This bill would make it mandatory for every Public School to set aside May 22 as Harvey Milk Day where it will be mandatory to explain Gay Rights and the accomplishments of Harvey Milk to bring about this agenda.
It is important that calls are made today and tomorrow (Thur. and Fri.).
ACTION: CALL SCHWARZENEGGER TO STRONGLY OPPOSE AB 2567 AND URGE HIM TO VETO AB 2567.
Dial 916-445-2841
1 for English
2 To speak with a staff member (It's painless and just takes a minute.) Tell the staffer that you are strongly opposed to AB 2567 Harvey Milk Day, and
urge the Governor to Veto AB 2567.
or if you get a recording...follow the instructions to voice opinion:
Would like to express opinion on AB 2567 press 1 then
Press 2 to oppose bill
They will ask for your first name and what City you are calling from, only if you get a staff member, the recording just records your vote.
Please, Please call it takes about 2 minutes!
Here is further information about the bill if you would like to read it:
Already on Governor Schwarzenegger's desk is a very bad bill that will push even more homosexual, bisexual, and transsexual indoctrination upon children
as young as kindergarten. AB 2567 would designate every May 22 as 'Harvey Milk Day' in California's government school system.
Harvey Milk was a homosexual activist who was a San Francisco supervisor until he was killed in 1978. Milk championed homosexual experimentation,
sexual activism, and the abolishment of sexual boundaries. He also regarded organized religion as dangerous.
The text of AB 2567 states that 'On Harvey Milk Day, exercises remembering the life of Harvey Milk and recognizing his accomplishments as well as the contributions he made to this state' should be conducted; specifically, 'all public schools and educational institutions are encouraged to observe...and conduct suitable commemorative exercises.' In other words, anything and everything Harvey Milk believed in or is now purported to believe in will be inculcated into children's impressionable minds.
If signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger, every May 22, AB 2567 will positively portray to children homosexual experimentation, homosexual 'marriages,' sex-change operations, and anything else that is 'in the closet.' There are no limits on the 'suitable commemorative exercises' that can be conducted. Obviously, AB 2567 has nothing to do with academic excellence.
ACTION: CALL SCHWARZENEGGER TO STRONGLY OPPOSE AB 2567 AND URGE HIM TO VETO AB 2567.
Dial 916-445-2841
1 for English
2 To speak with a staff member (It's painless and just takes a minute.)Tell
the staffer that you are strongly opposed to AB 2567 Harvey Milk Day, and
urge the Governor to Veto AB 2567.
They will ask for your first name and what City you are calling from.
This is a time for immediate action. While we are working to protect marriage, our legislature has moved forward with more Gay Rights legislation. Presently AB 2567 sits on the Governor's desk, awaiting his signature. This bill would make it mandatory for every Public School to set aside May 22 as Harvey Milk Day where it will be mandatory to explain Gay Rights and the accomplishments of Harvey Milk to bring about this agenda.
It is important that calls are made today and tomorrow (Thur. and Fri.).
ACTION: CALL SCHWARZENEGGER TO STRONGLY OPPOSE AB 2567 AND URGE HIM TO VETO AB 2567.
Dial 916-445-2841
1 for English
2 To speak with a staff member (It's painless and just takes a minute.) Tell the staffer that you are strongly opposed to AB 2567 Harvey Milk Day, and
urge the Governor to Veto AB 2567.
or if you get a recording...follow the instructions to voice opinion:
Would like to express opinion on AB 2567 press 1 then
Press 2 to oppose bill
They will ask for your first name and what City you are calling from, only if you get a staff member, the recording just records your vote.
Please, Please call it takes about 2 minutes!
Here is further information about the bill if you would like to read it:
Already on Governor Schwarzenegger's desk is a very bad bill that will push even more homosexual, bisexual, and transsexual indoctrination upon children
as young as kindergarten. AB 2567 would designate every May 22 as 'Harvey Milk Day' in California's government school system.
Harvey Milk was a homosexual activist who was a San Francisco supervisor until he was killed in 1978. Milk championed homosexual experimentation,
sexual activism, and the abolishment of sexual boundaries. He also regarded organized religion as dangerous.
The text of AB 2567 states that 'On Harvey Milk Day, exercises remembering the life of Harvey Milk and recognizing his accomplishments as well as the contributions he made to this state' should be conducted; specifically, 'all public schools and educational institutions are encouraged to observe...and conduct suitable commemorative exercises.' In other words, anything and everything Harvey Milk believed in or is now purported to believe in will be inculcated into children's impressionable minds.
If signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger, every May 22, AB 2567 will positively portray to children homosexual experimentation, homosexual 'marriages,' sex-change operations, and anything else that is 'in the closet.' There are no limits on the 'suitable commemorative exercises' that can be conducted. Obviously, AB 2567 has nothing to do with academic excellence.
ACTION: CALL SCHWARZENEGGER TO STRONGLY OPPOSE AB 2567 AND URGE HIM TO VETO AB 2567.
Dial 916-445-2841
1 for English
2 To speak with a staff member (It's painless and just takes a minute.)Tell
the staffer that you are strongly opposed to AB 2567 Harvey Milk Day, and
urge the Governor to Veto AB 2567.
They will ask for your first name and what City you are calling from.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Let's do something fun...
Thanks Nimo!
| You Belong in 1956 |
 |
http://www.blogthings.com/whatyeardoyoubelonginquiz/">What Year Do You Belong In?
Monday, September 8, 2008
Sad News
Last week my Dad's step-son -David Skimin - passed away in the Coast Guard helicopter crash on Oahu. It was the first Coast Guard crash since 1982. David was the oldest son of my step-mother Peggy.
I have never met him in the 4 or so years our parents have been married but I have always heard about his wonderful free spirit. Peggy is devestated as you can guess and my heart is broken for her. My brother & sister in HI will be attending both the Coast Guard memorial and funeral. We will attend a memorial here in Cali when Peggy gets back.
How wonderful the Gospel is - it has given all of us such comfort. Nothing can really take away the pain. I didn't know him but as a mother my heart still aches for Peggy and as a wife my soul is so sad for his wife. But I know Peggy is comforted knowing his is in the arms of his Heavenly Father now.
It's been all over the news here in Los Angeles as well as HI. From the news & from Peggy I've been able to know him better.
There has been wonderful support from family, friends and perfect strangers. Americans who have sent well wishes and prayers simply because he was in the service and helped to protect us. We are all thankful for that. It has truly helped.
http://www.sbsun.com/ci_10407376?source=most_viewed
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080906/NEWS01/809060336/-1/RSS02
I have never met him in the 4 or so years our parents have been married but I have always heard about his wonderful free spirit. Peggy is devestated as you can guess and my heart is broken for her. My brother & sister in HI will be attending both the Coast Guard memorial and funeral. We will attend a memorial here in Cali when Peggy gets back.
How wonderful the Gospel is - it has given all of us such comfort. Nothing can really take away the pain. I didn't know him but as a mother my heart still aches for Peggy and as a wife my soul is so sad for his wife. But I know Peggy is comforted knowing his is in the arms of his Heavenly Father now.
It's been all over the news here in Los Angeles as well as HI. From the news & from Peggy I've been able to know him better.
There has been wonderful support from family, friends and perfect strangers. Americans who have sent well wishes and prayers simply because he was in the service and helped to protect us. We are all thankful for that. It has truly helped.
http://www.sbsun.com/ci_10407376?source=most_viewed
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080906/NEWS01/809060336/-1/RSS02
Sunday, August 31, 2008
The Dawn is Broken!
LOVED IT!!
I got this at Costco for only $12.99 (1/2 of what I was seeing it elsewhere) and couldn't put it down. I had been disapointed in the last book but this one was so good! I can really see the author's growth and development of the characters and everything made much more sense. If you haven't gotten it - get it soon. I can't wait till the movie comes out!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Random stuff
* Blair, Raymond & Chad went to Zion National Park and hiked the Narrows with their Scout Troop. I was so nervous for them but it all turned out well. It was a great bonding experience for them all - for those 3 as family and for the troop in general. Even us Mom's got into the experience and a couple of us went out for a girls night since our boys were gone. Fun! Everyone came back safe and sound :-)
* Blair's Mom leaves tomorrow night. She has been here since July 4th. It has been a great experience and I have grown to love and respect this woman. She has been a wonderful example to me as a wife and mother and has loved me and my children unconditionally. I am truly sad to see her leave and pray we see her soon.
* Raymond's had the past 3 weeks off of football and is now back in Hell week. But as the trooper he is, on his first day back to football from 8am-5pm, he came home and gave a great Family Home Evening. He and Chad have gotten even closer and it makes my heart soar when I see them together. He is a good example to Chad and is always asking to take him around with him and his friends - Scouts, movies, sleepovers. Chad looks up to Raymond so much and I see Raymond taking Chad under his protective wing. He understands his responsibility as a 'big brother' figure to Chad and takes it seriously. Raymond has a full schedule this year in school and has some big choices to make for school. We talked the other night about his plans and I was relieved to hear it immediately included a Mission. 6 months ago - he wasn't sure. The other night it was: Oh yeah I'm going to El Co then my Mission then I'll transfer to a university ... :-)
* Chad has grown so much this summer. He's still the comedian but I see his personality emerging and his self confidence growing. He has spent almost the entire summer with Raymond and the older boys from our ward. I'm grateful for their good examples to him. They have accepted this kid and have included in all (appropriate) activities. I can see this has had such an influence on Chad as his maturity has increased significantly. Blair has noticed it too. Chad has had a 'coming of age' this summer. While he still is boyish, his thoughts and ideas have increased in depth. Blair has begun to trust him with more responsibility and (thankfully!) Chad has worn this new weight well. I'm anxious to see him develop over this year. He'll be 14 in a few weeks and already he and Raymond are planning what they will do at the dances Chad will now be able to go to, Youth Conferences and Firesides. It's a new era for Chad with so many more experiences ahead of him. It's very exciting!
* Corina has spent the past month in UT. We have missed her so much. Savanah cried at least once a day the first week she was gone. She's called Corina several times and left messages "um hi Corina, it's me Savanah. Um I miss you and love you and what are you doing? are you having fun? I'm bored"... lol... I know she's very excited and nervous to go into middle school. Chad and Corina go back and forth complaining about having each other at the same school again. LOL.. and both swear they will not walk home with each other!
* Savanah has grown up this summer as well. It has struck me that she will be 7 in a few months. I've thought for a while that we've babied her and I really contemplated my relationship with her. She is so close to me and really takes her lead from me. I have made a conscious effort this summer to gradually stop babying her. I've increased her responsibilities around the house and have started to really have conversations with her. She is such a sweet special girl. She has announced that she wants to take tahitian dancing, hip hop, singing and piano! LOL.. I love it! She's nervous to go to 2nd grade but I know she will do fine.
*Michael - he seems to be doing well on his mission. His emails to me are brief but positive and he always speaks of how much he loves it. He is staying with a family and the husband was just called as the new Bishop for their ward. Bike accidents still plague him but his outlook is positive. I just wish he would write more details!! I'm hoping he's writing to all of you and that all of you are writing to him :-)
As for me and Blair we're fine. Just working and trying to fit in some alone time between work, church and kids. :-)
* Blair's Mom leaves tomorrow night. She has been here since July 4th. It has been a great experience and I have grown to love and respect this woman. She has been a wonderful example to me as a wife and mother and has loved me and my children unconditionally. I am truly sad to see her leave and pray we see her soon.
* Raymond's had the past 3 weeks off of football and is now back in Hell week. But as the trooper he is, on his first day back to football from 8am-5pm, he came home and gave a great Family Home Evening. He and Chad have gotten even closer and it makes my heart soar when I see them together. He is a good example to Chad and is always asking to take him around with him and his friends - Scouts, movies, sleepovers. Chad looks up to Raymond so much and I see Raymond taking Chad under his protective wing. He understands his responsibility as a 'big brother' figure to Chad and takes it seriously. Raymond has a full schedule this year in school and has some big choices to make for school. We talked the other night about his plans and I was relieved to hear it immediately included a Mission. 6 months ago - he wasn't sure. The other night it was: Oh yeah I'm going to El Co then my Mission then I'll transfer to a university ... :-)
* Chad has grown so much this summer. He's still the comedian but I see his personality emerging and his self confidence growing. He has spent almost the entire summer with Raymond and the older boys from our ward. I'm grateful for their good examples to him. They have accepted this kid and have included in all (appropriate) activities. I can see this has had such an influence on Chad as his maturity has increased significantly. Blair has noticed it too. Chad has had a 'coming of age' this summer. While he still is boyish, his thoughts and ideas have increased in depth. Blair has begun to trust him with more responsibility and (thankfully!) Chad has worn this new weight well. I'm anxious to see him develop over this year. He'll be 14 in a few weeks and already he and Raymond are planning what they will do at the dances Chad will now be able to go to, Youth Conferences and Firesides. It's a new era for Chad with so many more experiences ahead of him. It's very exciting!
* Corina has spent the past month in UT. We have missed her so much. Savanah cried at least once a day the first week she was gone. She's called Corina several times and left messages "um hi Corina, it's me Savanah. Um I miss you and love you and what are you doing? are you having fun? I'm bored"... lol... I know she's very excited and nervous to go into middle school. Chad and Corina go back and forth complaining about having each other at the same school again. LOL.. and both swear they will not walk home with each other!
* Savanah has grown up this summer as well. It has struck me that she will be 7 in a few months. I've thought for a while that we've babied her and I really contemplated my relationship with her. She is so close to me and really takes her lead from me. I have made a conscious effort this summer to gradually stop babying her. I've increased her responsibilities around the house and have started to really have conversations with her. She is such a sweet special girl. She has announced that she wants to take tahitian dancing, hip hop, singing and piano! LOL.. I love it! She's nervous to go to 2nd grade but I know she will do fine.
*Michael - he seems to be doing well on his mission. His emails to me are brief but positive and he always speaks of how much he loves it. He is staying with a family and the husband was just called as the new Bishop for their ward. Bike accidents still plague him but his outlook is positive. I just wish he would write more details!! I'm hoping he's writing to all of you and that all of you are writing to him :-)
As for me and Blair we're fine. Just working and trying to fit in some alone time between work, church and kids. :-)
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Great Sunday
I have been truly edified the last few Sundays. Our new Bishop has put a focus on creating a real 'family' out of our ward family - including an emphasis on reaching out our inactive members and really growing our relationships our active members. Having a real focus on being member missionaries has been scary to most in the past, but Bishop has encouraged this in such a matter of fact way - this is what our job is as members, this is what we do, this is how we become like Christ - that it's not scary anymore. Just by starting within our own ward and then moving beyond - it seems so much more obtainable now. I have loved the refreshing change our ward has undergone under his leadership this past 2 months and it has helped bring me (at least) out of a spiritual funk so to speak. I am renewed and excited about sharing the Gospel again and am really making an effort to know more of our members and in actives.
Having Michael on the mission field has also been inspiring. His weekly emails to me are brief but I wait for them each week with excitement and devour them. I wish they were longer but I see that he writes his mother each week and he writes to his father and sister and I'm glad he's concentrating his efforts to them. He has struggled with his relationship with his father the past 5 years so I am proud of his effort in writing to him. The maturity and growth I saw in him before he left is still there and he is making that effort. The pictures he sends home to his Mom show him easily smiling - truly happy. In all the years I've known him his smile has not come easily - but now I see the glow and love in his eyes and smile. He looks peaceful, happy and content and that makes my heart leap for joy and fills my spirit.
This has been a great day.
Having Michael on the mission field has also been inspiring. His weekly emails to me are brief but I wait for them each week with excitement and devour them. I wish they were longer but I see that he writes his mother each week and he writes to his father and sister and I'm glad he's concentrating his efforts to them. He has struggled with his relationship with his father the past 5 years so I am proud of his effort in writing to him. The maturity and growth I saw in him before he left is still there and he is making that effort. The pictures he sends home to his Mom show him easily smiling - truly happy. In all the years I've known him his smile has not come easily - but now I see the glow and love in his eyes and smile. He looks peaceful, happy and content and that makes my heart leap for joy and fills my spirit.
This has been a great day.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Friday
Today is Friday July 18th. Today would have been Kyla's 36th birthday. I've missed my friend for the past two years. I can't believe she's been gone that long. I keep getting these birthday reminders and it really took me by surprise. But I kept them so I can see her name again.
This is our last picture together at Michael's graduation party in June 2006. She passed away the following month.
I spoke to her hubby Bob a few weeks ago - it's been over a year since I've seen him and the kids. They all are getting along but I do miss them. I hope to see them soon.
Happy Birthday Kyla. I love and miss you so much...
Monday, July 7, 2008
Time for updates
The Eagle Court of Honor went FANTASTIC! It was a great event - lots of stress and hard work putting it together but it was wonderful. We had over 200 people there. The boys did so well - all of them. I have pictures but need to download to my computer. Grandma Amiga came in for the special day and that meant so much to Raymond (and Malama too I'm sure). We were so thrilled to see her again as we miss her so much.
It was a special night as we honored the boys and their accomplishments. They also honored their mentors and as they went one by one they asked Blair to stand. We were surprised as we didn't know he would be mentioned but then I remembered that yep - he was 1st counselor in YM for 3 years and was very active with them. It was a great moment for Blair as each of the 4 Eagles said a little 'thank you' to him. He was deeply touched.
It was great learning about each boy and also working with their mothers. I got to know those 3 ladies better and grow our 'Church' friendships into more. It was a great experience, everyone got along and we had tremendous support from the ward. So many people came!
Now we are preparing to send these boys on long term and every one's excited to go. They are going to Zion's National Park. Chad & Raymond are both going and of course Chad is very excited. I'm nervous to let them drive so far - but I will turn to the Lord for comfort. They leave Aug. 4th so we are starting to have meetings and getting gear and stuff together - wheew!
For the 4th I put on our ward's 3rd annual pancake breakfast. It was so great! I have two committee members one had a baby last week and one had some health issues so I didn't have a lot of help planning it prior. But last week I was able to call on my friends and other ward members and we all pulled together to make it a success. Each year it has grown - this year was the biggest with about 110 people there. Last year we had about 75 and the first year we had 50. It went smoothly and the food was great. I really appreciated everyone's hard work to help make this a success - I had great cooks, mixers, people organizing tables. The boys and I went at 6am to hold the park and decorate - they were so tired and complained the whole time, but they pulled through like champs. Last year they both fell asleep on me but this year Chad brought his skateboard and of course Raymond has his phone so they had something to occupy them after we finished decorating. Families came and stayed for 3 hours - that's great! I can't wait to do it again next year.
Blair's parents came in on Friday as well. It's been so great having them. My husband is so very happy - he looks like a different person. He is cherishing these past few days with his parents. Mom will stay with us for a few months but Dad is leaving next week. He will hopefully be back at Christmas. Blair's job has been such a blessing to us and we are so thankful for the opportunity it gives us to be able to see more of both our families.
The kids are getting used to Grandma and Grandpa New Zealand ... LOL... and G&G are loving being with the kids. It's been two years since they've seen them. They were so surprised at how tall Chad has gotten - he's actually grown more in the last 6 weeks. I think he is now about 1/2 inch shorter than I am - I predict by Christmas he'll be taller than me! Savanah is still their sweet 'bubba' and they are spoiling them both.
Yesterday was such a wonderful day at Church. I had a great correlation meeting in the morning and that really set the tone for the day. We have a new Bishop and I am really liking how he's structuring things. I'm feeling much more useful in my calling and have felt the promptings to be reach out to the new sisters. I'm happy to say I followed the promptings and had a great day sitting next to a less-active sister and getting to know her better. I met her husband who has a Wave board so we had lots to talk about. He also used to live on Maui so we had the Hawaiian connection ..LOL... I hope they continue to come.
I was asked to sing in a Relief Society choir for a song in Sacrament on July 27th. I stayed for rehearsal and the girls came with me and the boys went to the car. While we were there Savanah went off to play with the chalkboard and Corina came to sit next to me while I sang. There was only 5 of us with me being the only Alto there. We are singing a beautiful arrangement of Lord I will follow thee - and while we were practicing I was showing Corina where my part was and such. The director asked her if she would like to sing with us! LOL... my poor Corina was so surprised! She gave her standard: I don't know answer so the director said - well think about it and you're more than welcome to join us. So while the other parts were practicing we were talking - she was excited but nervous. She sang with me on a couple of parts and I was so happy! She said she liked doing it :-) She has a pretty voice and I hope she'll still sing with us :)
It was a special night as we honored the boys and their accomplishments. They also honored their mentors and as they went one by one they asked Blair to stand. We were surprised as we didn't know he would be mentioned but then I remembered that yep - he was 1st counselor in YM for 3 years and was very active with them. It was a great moment for Blair as each of the 4 Eagles said a little 'thank you' to him. He was deeply touched.
It was great learning about each boy and also working with their mothers. I got to know those 3 ladies better and grow our 'Church' friendships into more. It was a great experience, everyone got along and we had tremendous support from the ward. So many people came!
Now we are preparing to send these boys on long term and every one's excited to go. They are going to Zion's National Park. Chad & Raymond are both going and of course Chad is very excited. I'm nervous to let them drive so far - but I will turn to the Lord for comfort. They leave Aug. 4th so we are starting to have meetings and getting gear and stuff together - wheew!
For the 4th I put on our ward's 3rd annual pancake breakfast. It was so great! I have two committee members one had a baby last week and one had some health issues so I didn't have a lot of help planning it prior. But last week I was able to call on my friends and other ward members and we all pulled together to make it a success. Each year it has grown - this year was the biggest with about 110 people there. Last year we had about 75 and the first year we had 50. It went smoothly and the food was great. I really appreciated everyone's hard work to help make this a success - I had great cooks, mixers, people organizing tables. The boys and I went at 6am to hold the park and decorate - they were so tired and complained the whole time, but they pulled through like champs. Last year they both fell asleep on me but this year Chad brought his skateboard and of course Raymond has his phone so they had something to occupy them after we finished decorating. Families came and stayed for 3 hours - that's great! I can't wait to do it again next year.
Blair's parents came in on Friday as well. It's been so great having them. My husband is so very happy - he looks like a different person. He is cherishing these past few days with his parents. Mom will stay with us for a few months but Dad is leaving next week. He will hopefully be back at Christmas. Blair's job has been such a blessing to us and we are so thankful for the opportunity it gives us to be able to see more of both our families.
The kids are getting used to Grandma and Grandpa New Zealand ... LOL... and G&G are loving being with the kids. It's been two years since they've seen them. They were so surprised at how tall Chad has gotten - he's actually grown more in the last 6 weeks. I think he is now about 1/2 inch shorter than I am - I predict by Christmas he'll be taller than me! Savanah is still their sweet 'bubba' and they are spoiling them both.
Yesterday was such a wonderful day at Church. I had a great correlation meeting in the morning and that really set the tone for the day. We have a new Bishop and I am really liking how he's structuring things. I'm feeling much more useful in my calling and have felt the promptings to be reach out to the new sisters. I'm happy to say I followed the promptings and had a great day sitting next to a less-active sister and getting to know her better. I met her husband who has a Wave board so we had lots to talk about. He also used to live on Maui so we had the Hawaiian connection ..LOL... I hope they continue to come.
I was asked to sing in a Relief Society choir for a song in Sacrament on July 27th. I stayed for rehearsal and the girls came with me and the boys went to the car. While we were there Savanah went off to play with the chalkboard and Corina came to sit next to me while I sang. There was only 5 of us with me being the only Alto there. We are singing a beautiful arrangement of Lord I will follow thee - and while we were practicing I was showing Corina where my part was and such. The director asked her if she would like to sing with us! LOL... my poor Corina was so surprised! She gave her standard: I don't know answer so the director said - well think about it and you're more than welcome to join us. So while the other parts were practicing we were talking - she was excited but nervous. She sang with me on a couple of parts and I was so happy! She said she liked doing it :-) She has a pretty voice and I hope she'll still sing with us :)
Thursday, June 12, 2008
This week has already been very busy - but then when is it not? I hate that most of the time all I have to say is "we're really busy". I think everyone is, but sometimes I feel overwhelmed by it all...anyone with me?
The past few days have been running around trying to get an appointment for Raymond to get his Eagle Book reviewed - very frustrating! We have so many people 'helping' that at times it leads to a break down in communication. So after 3 weeks and literally 10 + attempts, Raymond finally got his 1st review done on his book. This Sat. he has his final book review - once that is passed off then he goes before the board. Problem is his board review is on June 19th and his Court of Honor is on June 22nd. Call me crazy but I HATE planning things unless I know something is for sure. There is very little room for error here. His Scout somebody (friend's Mom who has really worked with the boys in getting to Eagle - wonderful woman!) has been organizing the Court of Honor and events leading up to it. It's been good and she & her family have been wonderful taking Raymond here and there, getting his book in order but it's still frustrating. She has pushed that all the Eagles (there are 4) have a shared Court of Honor. I disagreed. I wanted Raymond to have his own, especially after all this aggravation and stress in trying to get everything shoved in to a few days before the Court of Honor. But Blair told me to leave it - she's worked hard to get them this far. So he thinks if we should respect it and it doesn't matter as long as Raymond gets his Eagle. Yeah .. I guess.
I finally told her we need to ALL plan it as I want a say in what happens. She was very accommodating and we are meeting quickly after Church to discuss. She basically has it in her head how she wants it but I may have different ideas. I'm sure this meeting will be interesting.
Oh yeah - so as I'm reading up on Eagle CoH and what you need to do, it says the parents are to request congratulatory letters from dignitaries and the such to present to the Eagle Scout during the ceremony. So I write the letters and send them off only to find out she's already done it! Pissed me off she didn't tell me she did it. I called her tonight about it and she said "Oh now, we do that" I said - 'actually the PARENTS are supposed to do that'. She quickly agreed and I played nice and thanked her for all her effort. His letters have already started coming in so he may have duplicates as most that I wrote to she already had. But I did write to his Principle, Superintendent and to Gov. Schwazenegger and she didn't. So hopefully those will come through and be added.
Work has been extremely hectic as we have hired a new marketing consultant. I didn't like him at first - usually I'm a good judge right off the bat but it seems I missed the boat on him. Totally didn't think he liked me or wanted to work with me - he's extremely cool/hip/trendy and completely networked up in action sports. LOL we are extreme opposites. But I have found him to be very real, down to earth, has great perspectives and fantastic connections. I'm really looking forward to working with him. :-)
Ugh - today was Corina's Achievement Day and I forgot to call someone to pick her up. I was so bummed but she said she was ok. Bad Auntie :-(
We had a little scare with Savanah on Monday. Sunday morning she had woken up and her pinky and ring finger were swollen. The area in between was red so I thought she had been bit. She complained a few times and nothing else. Monday when I dropped her off at school she had never said anything about her hand hurting. The nurse called later that day because her fingers were so swollen. Blair picked her up and called in sick to be with her. By the time I got home, she had just woken up from her nap and her entire hand was swollen and red streaks appeared. Off to ER it was for me and her. We got in pretty quick and while the Dr. was not happy it was so swollen he was ok that it wasn't super bad. So he drew his little line around the redness and sent us home with a prescription of anit-biotics and instructions that if the redness goes beyond the line to start her on the meds. Thankfully it didn't and as of today (Wed.) her had is better.
What bit her you ask? Well my daughter likes to chase bees on the playground and was stung last Thurs. the Dr. thinks it's a reaction to that as neither of us could find a new bug bite... weird huh?
Chad is running at a feverish pace to pull up his grades. He was doing so well for a while but after we got back from UT they all went down again. I think we caught it in time for him to get B's and C's but if he had kept up the good work before we would be looking at A's and B's. He was so close! So alas, I think his dream of getting Rock Band will have to remain a dream. Blair made the deal with him that if he can bring home at least 4 A's, he can have Rock Band. Awww.. the other kids are bummed out as well since they were really looking forward to getting it too. Lesson learned.
This Sat. Blair and Corina are going to our Stake's Daddy/Daughter dinner and Powder Puff Derby. Corina's excited and thankfully Blair got the day off. So they've been working on and off since Sat. on her car. They worked on the design together, had the car cut out and now are in the sanding phase. She really liked learning to sand was quite proud to show me :-) Tomorrow and Friday will be painting and final decorations. It sounds like a fun event.
The past few days have been running around trying to get an appointment for Raymond to get his Eagle Book reviewed - very frustrating! We have so many people 'helping' that at times it leads to a break down in communication. So after 3 weeks and literally 10 + attempts, Raymond finally got his 1st review done on his book. This Sat. he has his final book review - once that is passed off then he goes before the board. Problem is his board review is on June 19th and his Court of Honor is on June 22nd. Call me crazy but I HATE planning things unless I know something is for sure. There is very little room for error here. His Scout somebody (friend's Mom who has really worked with the boys in getting to Eagle - wonderful woman!) has been organizing the Court of Honor and events leading up to it. It's been good and she & her family have been wonderful taking Raymond here and there, getting his book in order but it's still frustrating. She has pushed that all the Eagles (there are 4) have a shared Court of Honor. I disagreed. I wanted Raymond to have his own, especially after all this aggravation and stress in trying to get everything shoved in to a few days before the Court of Honor. But Blair told me to leave it - she's worked hard to get them this far. So he thinks if we should respect it and it doesn't matter as long as Raymond gets his Eagle. Yeah .. I guess.
I finally told her we need to ALL plan it as I want a say in what happens. She was very accommodating and we are meeting quickly after Church to discuss. She basically has it in her head how she wants it but I may have different ideas. I'm sure this meeting will be interesting.
Oh yeah - so as I'm reading up on Eagle CoH and what you need to do, it says the parents are to request congratulatory letters from dignitaries and the such to present to the Eagle Scout during the ceremony. So I write the letters and send them off only to find out she's already done it! Pissed me off she didn't tell me she did it. I called her tonight about it and she said "Oh now, we do that" I said - 'actually the PARENTS are supposed to do that'. She quickly agreed and I played nice and thanked her for all her effort. His letters have already started coming in so he may have duplicates as most that I wrote to she already had. But I did write to his Principle, Superintendent and to Gov. Schwazenegger and she didn't. So hopefully those will come through and be added.
Work has been extremely hectic as we have hired a new marketing consultant. I didn't like him at first - usually I'm a good judge right off the bat but it seems I missed the boat on him. Totally didn't think he liked me or wanted to work with me - he's extremely cool/hip/trendy and completely networked up in action sports. LOL we are extreme opposites. But I have found him to be very real, down to earth, has great perspectives and fantastic connections. I'm really looking forward to working with him. :-)
Ugh - today was Corina's Achievement Day and I forgot to call someone to pick her up. I was so bummed but she said she was ok. Bad Auntie :-(
We had a little scare with Savanah on Monday. Sunday morning she had woken up and her pinky and ring finger were swollen. The area in between was red so I thought she had been bit. She complained a few times and nothing else. Monday when I dropped her off at school she had never said anything about her hand hurting. The nurse called later that day because her fingers were so swollen. Blair picked her up and called in sick to be with her. By the time I got home, she had just woken up from her nap and her entire hand was swollen and red streaks appeared. Off to ER it was for me and her. We got in pretty quick and while the Dr. was not happy it was so swollen he was ok that it wasn't super bad. So he drew his little line around the redness and sent us home with a prescription of anit-biotics and instructions that if the redness goes beyond the line to start her on the meds. Thankfully it didn't and as of today (Wed.) her had is better.
What bit her you ask? Well my daughter likes to chase bees on the playground and was stung last Thurs. the Dr. thinks it's a reaction to that as neither of us could find a new bug bite... weird huh?
Chad is running at a feverish pace to pull up his grades. He was doing so well for a while but after we got back from UT they all went down again. I think we caught it in time for him to get B's and C's but if he had kept up the good work before we would be looking at A's and B's. He was so close! So alas, I think his dream of getting Rock Band will have to remain a dream. Blair made the deal with him that if he can bring home at least 4 A's, he can have Rock Band. Awww.. the other kids are bummed out as well since they were really looking forward to getting it too. Lesson learned.
This Sat. Blair and Corina are going to our Stake's Daddy/Daughter dinner and Powder Puff Derby. Corina's excited and thankfully Blair got the day off. So they've been working on and off since Sat. on her car. They worked on the design together, had the car cut out and now are in the sanding phase. She really liked learning to sand was quite proud to show me :-) Tomorrow and Friday will be painting and final decorations. It sounds like a fun event.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Long time eh?
Well it certainly has been a long time since I've blogged. Well probably not all 'that' long but I used to check every one's blogs daily and I haven't for over a week.
Or two.
I have discovered the 'new' thing called Facebook (lol). Yes my friends and family - I am on Facebook. But oh - I do not spend hours looking for people - nope. I play Pack Rat. A silly card game in which you have to collect cards in order to complete sets. It sounds ridiculous, I know. I thought that too when my sister told me that's how she's spending *her* nights. So when I do have spare time, I haven't looked at blogs but have been Pack Ratting and building my collections! Very fun!! :-)
So a little update -
We have been quite busy over here. Lots going on with the kids and work. I can't really remember last week, as it's all a blur, but I do remember this past weekend. Our weeks are usually busy - Monday's FHE, Tuesday is Scouts for Raymond & Chad, Wed. errands or Corina has achievement days, Thursday, Church meetings and basketball for Blair & Raymond and Friday - ahhh... Friday. Friday's are my end of the week collapse on the couch and sleep early days. So sad huh? We usually pop in a movie for the kids and have Movie Night. They'll pick a movie and we have dinner and watch it. It's been Blair's time to sit and play with them, tickle them or just chat with them. I'm usually asleep half way thru the movie. Ugh.
This past Friday we watched National Treasure. It was fun. Raymond left 1/2 through but the rest of the kids liked it. Sat. was errand day and spending time with Daddy. Blair taught us about boxing - he has in the past but it's been a while since we've had a lesson. I love it when he does that and so do the kids. It's amazing when he talks about boxing (or really any sport he's played) - I can literally see the transformation from my husband into an athlete. As you know Savanah had some issues with some boys in her class so Blair was teaching her again how to box. The right position for her hands, protecting her face, doing the old '1 - 2' punches. She loved it until she dropped her hand and left her face open. Smack! She was quite surprised!! Daddy don't mess around!! LOL.. after one more smack (these are soft smacks!) she decided she was done boxing. So it was my turn.
I've never been very athletic. Truth be told I'm very comfortable being inside - thank you very much. But Blair loves it when I practice punch him as I have a heavy hand and solid punch - sheesh! Who knew? So we practiced for a while and I actually liked it. Then Chad wanted to get in and so it was Father/Son time. So they practiced for a while and Blair liked that too. It was a good bonding time for all of us. He's very sporty and loves being outside but Savanah & I are inside girls and Chad is not a traditional sport type of kid. He loves skateboarding and surfing - not fun for Blair. So my poor husband does what we love and I love him for that. So it's good to do things for him too. Chad told me he wanted Blair to start training him and he wants to go to the gym with Raymond .. wow. I'm excited to hear that and I think Blair will be too :) Finally - something they can bond over!
Sat. evening we drove up to Northridge. We were late (waiting for Malama to get home from work) but came in time to eat so it was all good :-) Chad & Savanah swam, Aubrey and Corina hung out and Raymond texted at the pool :-) I was able to hold sweet Reagan for almost 2 hours! I miss having a baby to hold so it was wonderful.
We had a great time with Gerald, Lana and the kids. It's always so great to see them and Lana & I are trying to work into spending more time together.
Sunday was good. We went down to San Diego to my great-nephew's baby blessing. My sweet little Matoa is 4 months. He is my sisters, daughter's son - so I'm a great Aunt. Tani is 20 and a good mom. But she is still very young and immature. I wonder if I was that way? I was 21 when I had Chad.
We got up at 4:30a and was on the road by 6:30a. We were all dressed for church so everyone slept while we drove. It was a quick ride and by 8:15a we were at the chapel. I was so happy to see my Mom there as I haven't seen her since Mother's Day. It was great for her to see my kids again as she hasn't seen them for 6 months. She was shocked at how deep Chad's voice was and *I* was shocked to see Chad was as tall as she was!! She was couldn't get over how tall Raymond & Corina had gotten - I think it has been almost a year since she's seen them too. Although my mom lives only a few hours away I only see her once or twice a year. It's sad and I hate it but that's a whole other post. But I do miss having my mother around and I'm sad that my kids don't know her that well.
The blessing went great and Blair was invited in the circle. I was so proud to see my husband exercise his Priesthood. As he works so many Sunday's it was a rare treat to sit together as a family in Sacrament.
After Sacrament it was picture time.
Matoa & his Uncle's & Cousins
Kawika (my nephew, Matoa's Uncle), my brother Noa, Matoa, Blair, Chad, Nicholas (my nephew), Toa (my brother-in-law), Raymond
The whole Family (too many to name!)
We went back to the house, cleaned up and started the BBQ. It was great being with my family again - my brother and sisters and nieces and nephews. Raymond and Chad were a big help to Blair and Toa setting up the tents, tables and chairs and Corina and my nieces helped us get the rest of the house in order. It was work but fun.
They had a good time too - See the 'Rock Band' performance below:
Before we knew it, it was 5pm and we had to rush! Raymond was getting recognized for his Eagle at our Stake's Youth Recognition Night at 7p!! So as I'm gathering the kids together, Raymond tells me as he's shooting the basketball - um, you know we don't have to go. We can stay here. LOL... whatever. I tell you there was a split second when I actually considered staying there. Everyone was having a great time but I had invited Gerald and Lana and of course Malama was going to go too so we left. The kids fell asleep on the way home and thankfully there was no traffic. It was a miracle! So we got to the Stake Center at 6:50p. So we all dashed in and I gave strict orders to all to wash their hands, faces, neck and pitts!! Especially Raymond & Chad. They were SSSTTTINNKY!!
We made it to our seats by 7:05p and thankfully it was late getting started. Blair was outside waiting for Malama and Gerald/Lana them. The girls and I got a good seat near the front. It was a great evening and was wonderful to see the accomplishments of the youth in our stake. I'm so glad we have these nights! They brought up each YW and YM and told a little bio about them while having their picture up on the big screen. Raymond looked so handsome in his suit in the picture and on the podium. He's quite the comedian of course and everyone had a good laugh while the YM Stk Pres (who is a friend of ours from our ward) ready the bio I wrote for Raymond. LOL.. I thought it was pretty good myself and Raymond really played it up. When I was 'interviewing' him I didn't tell him it was for this so I got some great answers. :-) Chad & Blair were in their ie fetogas (ok I know I so butchered that!) and Chad was quite the talk amongst the YW. He was very uncomfortable as he's never worn it to our ward, only to funerals or to other wards (like he did in San Diego). In fact I over heard one of the girls in our ward say: Did you Chad's wearing a skirt!?! Not in a mean way but just in amazement, puzzlement kind of way. So I took it as an opportunity educate these girls about our traditions. So I brought Blair over who very proudly told them all about the 'manskirts', their meaning and the tradition behind it. Pretty soon all the YM/YW were talking about it and thought it was cool!! Blair stayed near Chad for a little bit to make him feel more comfortable and once it was all 'cool' then Chad took off and hung out with his friends and it was business as usual. My husband's so good. :-)
Wheew! Ok that was way more than I intended to write but there is our weekend. :)
Until next time ...
Or two.
I have discovered the 'new' thing called Facebook (lol). Yes my friends and family - I am on Facebook. But oh - I do not spend hours looking for people - nope. I play Pack Rat. A silly card game in which you have to collect cards in order to complete sets. It sounds ridiculous, I know. I thought that too when my sister told me that's how she's spending *her* nights. So when I do have spare time, I haven't looked at blogs but have been Pack Ratting and building my collections! Very fun!! :-)
So a little update -
We have been quite busy over here. Lots going on with the kids and work. I can't really remember last week, as it's all a blur, but I do remember this past weekend. Our weeks are usually busy - Monday's FHE, Tuesday is Scouts for Raymond & Chad, Wed. errands or Corina has achievement days, Thursday, Church meetings and basketball for Blair & Raymond and Friday - ahhh... Friday. Friday's are my end of the week collapse on the couch and sleep early days. So sad huh? We usually pop in a movie for the kids and have Movie Night. They'll pick a movie and we have dinner and watch it. It's been Blair's time to sit and play with them, tickle them or just chat with them. I'm usually asleep half way thru the movie. Ugh.
This past Friday we watched National Treasure. It was fun. Raymond left 1/2 through but the rest of the kids liked it. Sat. was errand day and spending time with Daddy. Blair taught us about boxing - he has in the past but it's been a while since we've had a lesson. I love it when he does that and so do the kids. It's amazing when he talks about boxing (or really any sport he's played) - I can literally see the transformation from my husband into an athlete. As you know Savanah had some issues with some boys in her class so Blair was teaching her again how to box. The right position for her hands, protecting her face, doing the old '1 - 2' punches. She loved it until she dropped her hand and left her face open. Smack! She was quite surprised!! Daddy don't mess around!! LOL.. after one more smack (these are soft smacks!) she decided she was done boxing. So it was my turn.
I've never been very athletic. Truth be told I'm very comfortable being inside - thank you very much. But Blair loves it when I practice punch him as I have a heavy hand and solid punch - sheesh! Who knew? So we practiced for a while and I actually liked it. Then Chad wanted to get in and so it was Father/Son time. So they practiced for a while and Blair liked that too. It was a good bonding time for all of us. He's very sporty and loves being outside but Savanah & I are inside girls and Chad is not a traditional sport type of kid. He loves skateboarding and surfing - not fun for Blair. So my poor husband does what we love and I love him for that. So it's good to do things for him too. Chad told me he wanted Blair to start training him and he wants to go to the gym with Raymond .. wow. I'm excited to hear that and I think Blair will be too :) Finally - something they can bond over!
Sat. evening we drove up to Northridge. We were late (waiting for Malama to get home from work) but came in time to eat so it was all good :-) Chad & Savanah swam, Aubrey and Corina hung out and Raymond texted at the pool :-) I was able to hold sweet Reagan for almost 2 hours! I miss having a baby to hold so it was wonderful.
We had a great time with Gerald, Lana and the kids. It's always so great to see them and Lana & I are trying to work into spending more time together.
Sunday was good. We went down to San Diego to my great-nephew's baby blessing. My sweet little Matoa is 4 months. He is my sisters, daughter's son - so I'm a great Aunt. Tani is 20 and a good mom. But she is still very young and immature. I wonder if I was that way? I was 21 when I had Chad.
We got up at 4:30a and was on the road by 6:30a. We were all dressed for church so everyone slept while we drove. It was a quick ride and by 8:15a we were at the chapel. I was so happy to see my Mom there as I haven't seen her since Mother's Day. It was great for her to see my kids again as she hasn't seen them for 6 months. She was shocked at how deep Chad's voice was and *I* was shocked to see Chad was as tall as she was!! She was couldn't get over how tall Raymond & Corina had gotten - I think it has been almost a year since she's seen them too. Although my mom lives only a few hours away I only see her once or twice a year. It's sad and I hate it but that's a whole other post. But I do miss having my mother around and I'm sad that my kids don't know her that well.
The blessing went great and Blair was invited in the circle. I was so proud to see my husband exercise his Priesthood. As he works so many Sunday's it was a rare treat to sit together as a family in Sacrament.
After Sacrament it was picture time.
Matoa & his Uncle's & CousinsKawika (my nephew, Matoa's Uncle), my brother Noa, Matoa, Blair, Chad, Nicholas (my nephew), Toa (my brother-in-law), Raymond
The whole Family (too many to name!)We went back to the house, cleaned up and started the BBQ. It was great being with my family again - my brother and sisters and nieces and nephews. Raymond and Chad were a big help to Blair and Toa setting up the tents, tables and chairs and Corina and my nieces helped us get the rest of the house in order. It was work but fun.
They had a good time too - See the 'Rock Band' performance below:
Before we knew it, it was 5pm and we had to rush! Raymond was getting recognized for his Eagle at our Stake's Youth Recognition Night at 7p!! So as I'm gathering the kids together, Raymond tells me as he's shooting the basketball - um, you know we don't have to go. We can stay here. LOL... whatever. I tell you there was a split second when I actually considered staying there. Everyone was having a great time but I had invited Gerald and Lana and of course Malama was going to go too so we left. The kids fell asleep on the way home and thankfully there was no traffic. It was a miracle! So we got to the Stake Center at 6:50p. So we all dashed in and I gave strict orders to all to wash their hands, faces, neck and pitts!! Especially Raymond & Chad. They were SSSTTTINNKY!!
We made it to our seats by 7:05p and thankfully it was late getting started. Blair was outside waiting for Malama and Gerald/Lana them. The girls and I got a good seat near the front. It was a great evening and was wonderful to see the accomplishments of the youth in our stake. I'm so glad we have these nights! They brought up each YW and YM and told a little bio about them while having their picture up on the big screen. Raymond looked so handsome in his suit in the picture and on the podium. He's quite the comedian of course and everyone had a good laugh while the YM Stk Pres (who is a friend of ours from our ward) ready the bio I wrote for Raymond. LOL.. I thought it was pretty good myself and Raymond really played it up. When I was 'interviewing' him I didn't tell him it was for this so I got some great answers. :-) Chad & Blair were in their ie fetogas (ok I know I so butchered that!) and Chad was quite the talk amongst the YW. He was very uncomfortable as he's never worn it to our ward, only to funerals or to other wards (like he did in San Diego). In fact I over heard one of the girls in our ward say: Did you Chad's wearing a skirt!?! Not in a mean way but just in amazement, puzzlement kind of way. So I took it as an opportunity educate these girls about our traditions. So I brought Blair over who very proudly told them all about the 'manskirts', their meaning and the tradition behind it. Pretty soon all the YM/YW were talking about it and thought it was cool!! Blair stayed near Chad for a little bit to make him feel more comfortable and once it was all 'cool' then Chad took off and hung out with his friends and it was business as usual. My husband's so good. :-)
Wheew! Ok that was way more than I intended to write but there is our weekend. :)
Until next time ...
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Nimo's Marriage Tag
Marriage Tag!
LOL...thanks Nimo...
How long have you been married? 7 years
How old is your spouse? 35 1/2 years old ..
Who eats more? Umm hate to admit it but dang if we can't both put away a good feed!
Who said I love you first? I probably did, but he is the one that told me 3 weeks after we met he wanted me to be the mother of his children. Aww.. so sweet!
Who is taller? Him by a few inches :-)
Who sings better? We both sing well but he definitely has more 'professional' experience and sounds way better - plus he can harmonize which I can't do to save my life! 6 years of choir - so sad :-(
Who is smarter? Depends on the subject, but he knows facts about most everything!
Who controls the T.V. remote? Is this a real question? You know Big Daddy has to have the remote to 'his' TV .. LOL...
Whose temper is worse? Blair is Fast and Hot ... I'm a slow simmer at best :-)
Who does the laundry? Depends on who runs out of clothes first ..
Who does the dishes? Mostly Chad then me and if someone comes over, Blair. :-)
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? No one .. we sleep in the parlor. I know .. weird but it's the coolest place in our house. Oh and of course it's where the XBOX 360 is hooked up!
Who cooks dinner? Me
Who is more stubborn? Blair!
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Usually me but he's been getting much better at this
Whose parents do you see the most? Mine ..
Who has more friends? Hmm.. our friends are mostly our family but he works with more people - he has more 'acquaintances'
Who has more siblings? I do - I am the third of 6 - he is the oldest of 3
Who wears the pants in the family? We have stretchy pants and share them :-)
Ok since all the family is already tagged - I tag my friends: Katie, Teresa, Wendy, Tracy, Melissa, Lisa and everyone else...
LOL...thanks Nimo...
How long have you been married? 7 years
How old is your spouse? 35 1/2 years old ..
Who eats more? Umm hate to admit it but dang if we can't both put away a good feed!
Who said I love you first? I probably did, but he is the one that told me 3 weeks after we met he wanted me to be the mother of his children. Aww.. so sweet!
Who is taller? Him by a few inches :-)
Who sings better? We both sing well but he definitely has more 'professional' experience and sounds way better - plus he can harmonize which I can't do to save my life! 6 years of choir - so sad :-(
Who is smarter? Depends on the subject, but he knows facts about most everything!
Who controls the T.V. remote? Is this a real question? You know Big Daddy has to have the remote to 'his' TV .. LOL...
Whose temper is worse? Blair is Fast and Hot ... I'm a slow simmer at best :-)
Who does the laundry? Depends on who runs out of clothes first ..
Who does the dishes? Mostly Chad then me and if someone comes over, Blair. :-)
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? No one .. we sleep in the parlor. I know .. weird but it's the coolest place in our house. Oh and of course it's where the XBOX 360 is hooked up!
Who cooks dinner? Me
Who is more stubborn? Blair!
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Usually me but he's been getting much better at this
Whose parents do you see the most? Mine ..
Who has more friends? Hmm.. our friends are mostly our family but he works with more people - he has more 'acquaintances'
Who has more siblings? I do - I am the third of 6 - he is the oldest of 3
Who wears the pants in the family? We have stretchy pants and share them :-)
Ok since all the family is already tagged - I tag my friends: Katie, Teresa, Wendy, Tracy, Melissa, Lisa and everyone else...
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Mother's Day
On to a happy post. *NOTE: EDITED TO ADD PICTURES
This Mother's Day was great! I was very surprised by all the thought and effort put into it by Blair and the kids. He kept asking me for the past few weeks what I wanted :-) I told him I just want a lei to wear to Church and breakfast. I thought that was fine.
Yesterday I went to San Diego to visit my Mom. I took my brother and sister as a surprise to my Mom as she thought it was only me coming down. We all showed up at her place and she was shocked! It was great. We went inside and sat down and chatted for a while..LOL.. just like we were kids we all wanted to be the first one to give our presents to our mother. Then we all piled in my car and went to Olive Garden. We were surprised by the line - hello!?! It was 2pm on a Sat... why was it so busy? Well it was Mexican Mother's Day. That's ok, while we waited we took a bunch of pictures.
I had planned to pay for my mother and I, then I thought I might as well pay for my brother and sister. Neither one ever has money so I, being the older sister, usually pays for them. I like to help out and I know they appreciated it. well just as I'm about to say it, my brother puts down his menu and says: In honor of Mother's Day and because you are my mother and you my sister's are mother's, I am paying for the entire lunch. Order whatever you like! WOW!!!!!!!!! That is a FIRST!! Seriously! I was super excited and very touched that he did it. That was his gift to us and I was so very touched.
We had a blast all through lunch - going back to the old days, talking about different things, laughing, my sister and brother put each other on blast .. LOL.. each telling a secret on the other that me and my Mom didn't know about. Ha Ha Ha!! It was hilarious!
After lunch we got back to Mom's around 4:30pm and all piled on her bed, just like we did when we were kids. I was very tired from the night before (Raymond's Prom - another post) so after a few minutes of looking at all my mom's pictures of us, I knocked out. By 5:30p my brother and sister were waking me up - they were leaving. I moved to sit on the couch and said good bye and fell asleep again. SAD! Geeze ... LOL.
So about 7pm I woke up and my mom and her boyfriend were there watching TV. LOL... Um.. I know I must have been snoring but thankfully they didn't say anything. LOL..
I spent the next few hours with my Mom just catching her up on my family and work. It was nice to have her undivided attention. Usually our conversations are rushed on the phone but this time it was nice and leisurely. I left about 9:15p and got home just after 11p.
When I got in Blair gave me strict instructions on what I was to do the next day. He was working in the morning but said the kids knew what to do and he would be home by the time we got back from Sacrament (short day for us).
Sure enough I got my lei for church and the kids and I piled in the car. Raymond was wearing his new brown suit and looked so handsome. Sacrament was wonderful - a very festive energy was in the room. The talks were wonderful and everyone loved my lei. The primary kids sang to us, poor Corina didn't get to sing - her last Mother's Day in Primary. She had a bloody nose right after the water and was in the bathroom cleaning up when it was time for them to sing.
After we came back from Sacrament Blair was already home preparing me and Malama's Mother's Day Brunch. Yum!! He was chopping peppers and already had the rice on. After I changed my clothes I was in charge of making sure Malama was up and ready to come over. So I headed over to her house and waited as she got ready. Then we had to wait until we were called over. It was so cute! They were so excited! Savanah was bouncing off the furniture with giddiness! She couldn't wait.
Finally Malama & I got the 'OK' to come over. When we go there the table was beautifully set with special places for me and Malama to sit. Then our girls brought us over to the couch to sit. Corina ran upstairs and and came back down with something in her hand. Blair had gotten Malama a lei too. So he took it from Corina and put it on her with a kiss and a Happy Mother's Day. Then the girls gave us our roses and we were told to go pick our ingredients. Each of the kids had a specific job they did for the breakfast. Raymond's job was to make our omelets. LOL..only thing was the boy had never made omelette's before. Hahahaha... so I showed him how to make one and he was then able to make Malama's. Chad made pancakes and sausage - they were so yum!! Everything was great and we all sat at the table and ate this wonderful food. After brunch it was back to the couch for part #2 - the bearing of the gifts. LOL..
So the kids were all excited and Blair took the 4 of them upstairs to bring down our gifts. We got balloons and everything! Malama & I each got a big Bath & Body gift basket! That was a total shock! I really was not expecting that at all. I got the Japanese Cherry Blossom set and Malama got lavender.
We also got beautiful cards. Then my husband surprised me again. He gave me a gift from himself! He gave me Tommy Bahama's signature fragrance and a very moving card. That again was so unexpected!
It was then time for us to exchange gifts. I had already received a Mother's Day card from Michael. That was so sweet and very touching. Raymond ran home to get their gift for me. It was so cute! Wrapped in Winnie the Pooh paper and it had a balloon attached to it too!
They got me a DEEP FRYER!!!!!!!!!! Yay!!! I'm so excited! I've wanted one for ages but just never got around to getting one. It's a really nice one and big. Corina was super excited because she picked it out and knew I had wanted one. Raymond, Blair & Chad were already picking out dinner to make with it.. Hahaha. It was such a nice surprise!
Then it was our turn to give our gift to Malama. I had wanted to do this for her for a long time but never had the money or time to do it. With Michael going on his Mission the time had come. So we gave her professional photo's of the kids. We were so excited! In true Malama fashion, she didn't say much other than - there's one missing and that she liked the black and white. I truly think she really loved the pictures and I hope she gets them framed. We had a wonderful time with all the kids that day - we all got our pictures done at one time. I'm going to get our printed next week.
Here are the shots we chose for her:
Raymond
Corina
I love this pose!
This is the one we blew up
Michael
After gifts everyone went home and we all took a nap. It was wonderful! They came back over a little while ago and we had ice cream and cake and watch my favorite show - Jon & Kate plus 8. Lama was cracking up at Kate. LOL..
It was such a great day. I truly feel blessed and am so thankful that everyone did so much. I'm especially grateful for my husband, who had family meetings with all the kids, made menu's, did all the shopping and made it so special. I feel honored that they all love me - us - so much to do this. It was the best mother's day I've ever had.
This Mother's Day was great! I was very surprised by all the thought and effort put into it by Blair and the kids. He kept asking me for the past few weeks what I wanted :-) I told him I just want a lei to wear to Church and breakfast. I thought that was fine.
Yesterday I went to San Diego to visit my Mom. I took my brother and sister as a surprise to my Mom as she thought it was only me coming down. We all showed up at her place and she was shocked! It was great. We went inside and sat down and chatted for a while..LOL.. just like we were kids we all wanted to be the first one to give our presents to our mother. Then we all piled in my car and went to Olive Garden. We were surprised by the line - hello!?! It was 2pm on a Sat... why was it so busy? Well it was Mexican Mother's Day. That's ok, while we waited we took a bunch of pictures.
I had planned to pay for my mother and I, then I thought I might as well pay for my brother and sister. Neither one ever has money so I, being the older sister, usually pays for them. I like to help out and I know they appreciated it. well just as I'm about to say it, my brother puts down his menu and says: In honor of Mother's Day and because you are my mother and you my sister's are mother's, I am paying for the entire lunch. Order whatever you like! WOW!!!!!!!!! That is a FIRST!! Seriously! I was super excited and very touched that he did it. That was his gift to us and I was so very touched.
We had a blast all through lunch - going back to the old days, talking about different things, laughing, my sister and brother put each other on blast .. LOL.. each telling a secret on the other that me and my Mom didn't know about. Ha Ha Ha!! It was hilarious!
After lunch we got back to Mom's around 4:30pm and all piled on her bed, just like we did when we were kids. I was very tired from the night before (Raymond's Prom - another post) so after a few minutes of looking at all my mom's pictures of us, I knocked out. By 5:30p my brother and sister were waking me up - they were leaving. I moved to sit on the couch and said good bye and fell asleep again. SAD! Geeze ... LOL.
So about 7pm I woke up and my mom and her boyfriend were there watching TV. LOL... Um.. I know I must have been snoring but thankfully they didn't say anything. LOL..
I spent the next few hours with my Mom just catching her up on my family and work. It was nice to have her undivided attention. Usually our conversations are rushed on the phone but this time it was nice and leisurely. I left about 9:15p and got home just after 11p.
When I got in Blair gave me strict instructions on what I was to do the next day. He was working in the morning but said the kids knew what to do and he would be home by the time we got back from Sacrament (short day for us).
Sure enough I got my lei for church and the kids and I piled in the car. Raymond was wearing his new brown suit and looked so handsome. Sacrament was wonderful - a very festive energy was in the room. The talks were wonderful and everyone loved my lei. The primary kids sang to us, poor Corina didn't get to sing - her last Mother's Day in Primary. She had a bloody nose right after the water and was in the bathroom cleaning up when it was time for them to sing.
After we came back from Sacrament Blair was already home preparing me and Malama's Mother's Day Brunch. Yum!! He was chopping peppers and already had the rice on. After I changed my clothes I was in charge of making sure Malama was up and ready to come over. So I headed over to her house and waited as she got ready. Then we had to wait until we were called over. It was so cute! They were so excited! Savanah was bouncing off the furniture with giddiness! She couldn't wait.
Finally Malama & I got the 'OK' to come over. When we go there the table was beautifully set with special places for me and Malama to sit. Then our girls brought us over to the couch to sit. Corina ran upstairs and and came back down with something in her hand. Blair had gotten Malama a lei too. So he took it from Corina and put it on her with a kiss and a Happy Mother's Day. Then the girls gave us our roses and we were told to go pick our ingredients. Each of the kids had a specific job they did for the breakfast. Raymond's job was to make our omelets. LOL..only thing was the boy had never made omelette's before. Hahahaha... so I showed him how to make one and he was then able to make Malama's. Chad made pancakes and sausage - they were so yum!! Everything was great and we all sat at the table and ate this wonderful food. After brunch it was back to the couch for part #2 - the bearing of the gifts. LOL..
So the kids were all excited and Blair took the 4 of them upstairs to bring down our gifts. We got balloons and everything! Malama & I each got a big Bath & Body gift basket! That was a total shock! I really was not expecting that at all. I got the Japanese Cherry Blossom set and Malama got lavender.
We also got beautiful cards. Then my husband surprised me again. He gave me a gift from himself! He gave me Tommy Bahama's signature fragrance and a very moving card. That again was so unexpected!
It was then time for us to exchange gifts. I had already received a Mother's Day card from Michael. That was so sweet and very touching. Raymond ran home to get their gift for me. It was so cute! Wrapped in Winnie the Pooh paper and it had a balloon attached to it too!
They got me a DEEP FRYER!!!!!!!!!! Yay!!! I'm so excited! I've wanted one for ages but just never got around to getting one. It's a really nice one and big. Corina was super excited because she picked it out and knew I had wanted one. Raymond, Blair & Chad were already picking out dinner to make with it.. Hahaha. It was such a nice surprise!
Then it was our turn to give our gift to Malama. I had wanted to do this for her for a long time but never had the money or time to do it. With Michael going on his Mission the time had come. So we gave her professional photo's of the kids. We were so excited! In true Malama fashion, she didn't say much other than - there's one missing and that she liked the black and white. I truly think she really loved the pictures and I hope she gets them framed. We had a wonderful time with all the kids that day - we all got our pictures done at one time. I'm going to get our printed next week.
Here are the shots we chose for her:
Raymond
Corina
I love this pose!
This is the one we blew up
MichaelAfter gifts everyone went home and we all took a nap. It was wonderful! They came back over a little while ago and we had ice cream and cake and watch my favorite show - Jon & Kate plus 8. Lama was cracking up at Kate. LOL..
It was such a great day. I truly feel blessed and am so thankful that everyone did so much. I'm especially grateful for my husband, who had family meetings with all the kids, made menu's, did all the shopping and made it so special. I feel honored that they all love me - us - so much to do this. It was the best mother's day I've ever had.
Sexual Harrassement in 1st Grade
This past week was very disturbing. Savanah has come home in the past saying that this boy likes her or that boy tries to kiss her, etc., Now I remember that age and yes, kids are more aware of liking the opposite sex. I didn't think much of it all though Big Daddy nearly was having mentals at the mere thought. So after a few boxing lessons for Savanah we haven't heard much since.
Until a few weeks ago. It seems Benjamin kissed her on her shoulder and chased her around the playground trying to kiss her. I brushed it off as harmless and told her to stay away from him. Then I noticed that she had something to report about him everyday - that he tells her she's cute and he likes her and always wants to stand or sit next to her. Still, I didn't think much other than he's annoying. Then last week she started asking me to have Daddy come to school with her so Benjamin would leave her alone. Again, I didn't think much but told her I would ask Daddy to come to school as he wanted to work in her classroom anyway. As things turned out he didn't go that week.
After FHE last week I had a talk with Chad, Corina & Savanah. Corina is going to 5th Grade camp this week so I wanted to remind them about inappropriate touching and such. So we spoke about it, we talked about where on your body was off limits to other people and what you should do if someone tries to touch you there. After all was said and done a few days later Savanah wanted to talk to me when I got home and told me she really wanted Daddy to come and tell Benjamin to leave her alone. This time I listened.
We sat down and I asked her what was going on with him. She proceeded to tell me that he always chases her on the playground and still continues to try and kiss her. She tells the teacher and he leaves. Then she tells me in Learning Center he tried to hold her hand several times and tries to put his arm around her and she had to yell at him to stop and the teacher made him move. Then she got very quite and she said he touched her inappropriately. My heart dropped. I asked her how and to show me with me being her and she being Benjamin. She said he touched her muli and rubbed it - and she came right up behind me and did it. She said she took his hand and yelled Stop! and hit him.
I grabbed my sweetie girl and told her she did the right thing! I was so upset - upset at myself that I kept brushing it off and upset that she had felt so bad.
The next morning I went to the school and spoke to the teacher. Here I am thinking the teacher would be surprised - but she wasn't. She said she noticed he was very sexual and that he was like that with other girls but they (the other girls) were/seemed unaware of it. I was floored!! She said she caught him "helping" another girl over something by grabbing her butt and has caught him mouthing "I Love you" to girls. I was so pissed off! I told her I did not want that boy anywhere near my daughter so she moved him. We also went straight to the Principal and I told her what was going on. The Principal told me this little boy had a very troubled life with no real adults to care for him. He lives with the Grandmother but she doesn't do much other than provide a roof over his head and food. He sees a counselor at school twice a week. The boy is 6 years old!! How sad!
I told the principal - if this boy is this aware of sexuality then I'm concerned about where he's learning it - either he's watching it or heaven forbid someone is doing something to him. The Principal thought the same and assured me that she would inform the counselor, call the Grandmother and if the Grandmother doesn't respond she would call the 'appropriate authorities' to investigate. She took him out of recess so he would not bother Savanah & other little girls on the play ground anymore.
It's times like these that I wish I could wrap my kids in a bubble. I know nothing really terrible happened to Savanah - thank goodness. But the thought that she was close enough to 'maybe' something bad happening to her - makes me sick to my stomach. I am proud that she came to me and asked for help. I'm so thankful for it!
She also feels relief. She was so happy I went to the school and took care of it. Friday she came home - and no reports of him bothering her. She was carefree again.
It is so scary to think of this things happening to our children. I am so sad that this little boy, here on the Earth only 6 short years and already has so much to deal with. I pray that he will be protected somehow and find the love and nurturing he deserves.
So very sad.
Until a few weeks ago. It seems Benjamin kissed her on her shoulder and chased her around the playground trying to kiss her. I brushed it off as harmless and told her to stay away from him. Then I noticed that she had something to report about him everyday - that he tells her she's cute and he likes her and always wants to stand or sit next to her. Still, I didn't think much other than he's annoying. Then last week she started asking me to have Daddy come to school with her so Benjamin would leave her alone. Again, I didn't think much but told her I would ask Daddy to come to school as he wanted to work in her classroom anyway. As things turned out he didn't go that week.
After FHE last week I had a talk with Chad, Corina & Savanah. Corina is going to 5th Grade camp this week so I wanted to remind them about inappropriate touching and such. So we spoke about it, we talked about where on your body was off limits to other people and what you should do if someone tries to touch you there. After all was said and done a few days later Savanah wanted to talk to me when I got home and told me she really wanted Daddy to come and tell Benjamin to leave her alone. This time I listened.
We sat down and I asked her what was going on with him. She proceeded to tell me that he always chases her on the playground and still continues to try and kiss her. She tells the teacher and he leaves. Then she tells me in Learning Center he tried to hold her hand several times and tries to put his arm around her and she had to yell at him to stop and the teacher made him move. Then she got very quite and she said he touched her inappropriately. My heart dropped. I asked her how and to show me with me being her and she being Benjamin. She said he touched her muli and rubbed it - and she came right up behind me and did it. She said she took his hand and yelled Stop! and hit him.
I grabbed my sweetie girl and told her she did the right thing! I was so upset - upset at myself that I kept brushing it off and upset that she had felt so bad.
The next morning I went to the school and spoke to the teacher. Here I am thinking the teacher would be surprised - but she wasn't. She said she noticed he was very sexual and that he was like that with other girls but they (the other girls) were/seemed unaware of it. I was floored!! She said she caught him "helping" another girl over something by grabbing her butt and has caught him mouthing "I Love you" to girls. I was so pissed off! I told her I did not want that boy anywhere near my daughter so she moved him. We also went straight to the Principal and I told her what was going on. The Principal told me this little boy had a very troubled life with no real adults to care for him. He lives with the Grandmother but she doesn't do much other than provide a roof over his head and food. He sees a counselor at school twice a week. The boy is 6 years old!! How sad!
I told the principal - if this boy is this aware of sexuality then I'm concerned about where he's learning it - either he's watching it or heaven forbid someone is doing something to him. The Principal thought the same and assured me that she would inform the counselor, call the Grandmother and if the Grandmother doesn't respond she would call the 'appropriate authorities' to investigate. She took him out of recess so he would not bother Savanah & other little girls on the play ground anymore.
It's times like these that I wish I could wrap my kids in a bubble. I know nothing really terrible happened to Savanah - thank goodness. But the thought that she was close enough to 'maybe' something bad happening to her - makes me sick to my stomach. I am proud that she came to me and asked for help. I'm so thankful for it!
She also feels relief. She was so happy I went to the school and took care of it. Friday she came home - and no reports of him bothering her. She was carefree again.
It is so scary to think of this things happening to our children. I am so sad that this little boy, here on the Earth only 6 short years and already has so much to deal with. I pray that he will be protected somehow and find the love and nurturing he deserves.
So very sad.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Saturday, May 3, 2008
We're back!
What a whirlwind April has been. I can't believe that month is over. I blinked - and it was done.
We had a wonderful time in UT. Sunday - Tuesday was non-stop family. The UT family was absolutely wonderful in arranging fantastic dinners, FHE and just so accomodating. It was truly a blessing for us to see them all again and how fantastic they all were. Michael had a great time. I was so proud of him. We FINALLY got to see the real Michael! Confident, happy, playful and affectionate. He talked with his Aunties & Uncles, played with all his little cousins and kept a good sense of humor and a good perspective of everything. My heart swelled with love, pride and joy that he was able to be released from the rigedness he always was in. He was relaxed and really became a man before my eyes. I only wish we could've seen that side of him for longer than a few weeks. I always knew it was there - he just always felt the need to hide it. Already his Mission has blessed him and his family. It was so great to reconnect with everyone in UT. I hadn't seen them in almost 1 year!
I had gotten really sick the week before UT. I think I was just worn out. The begining of April was very tough with training and getting Michael ready. I ended up relapsing while I was in UT. But I made it for all of Michael's celebrations and dropped him off at the MTC and that's all that mattered.
The MTC was quite an experience (MTC = Missionary Training Center). It was such a good energy there - everyone was so happy. It was hard to say good-bye to him. I watched him walk out that door and to know it's the last time I'll see him for another two years was ... indescribably. It's a mixture of sadness but happiness knowing he is serving the Lord.
When we got back Sunday we had some family from New Zealand who had been staying at our place for a few days. It was wonderful to see them. It was as if no time had past since we last saw each other, but it had actually been two years. We had wonderful conversations and it was truly a joy to have them. I was so exhausted as we were up until 1-2am each night catching up, then I was up in the morning to go to work. Needless to say I still haven't recovered from my illness yet.
Today - Saturday - I slept all day. I think I actually got up around 1130am. It was wonderful and I really feel good.
We had a wonderful time in UT. Sunday - Tuesday was non-stop family. The UT family was absolutely wonderful in arranging fantastic dinners, FHE and just so accomodating. It was truly a blessing for us to see them all again and how fantastic they all were. Michael had a great time. I was so proud of him. We FINALLY got to see the real Michael! Confident, happy, playful and affectionate. He talked with his Aunties & Uncles, played with all his little cousins and kept a good sense of humor and a good perspective of everything. My heart swelled with love, pride and joy that he was able to be released from the rigedness he always was in. He was relaxed and really became a man before my eyes. I only wish we could've seen that side of him for longer than a few weeks. I always knew it was there - he just always felt the need to hide it. Already his Mission has blessed him and his family. It was so great to reconnect with everyone in UT. I hadn't seen them in almost 1 year!
I had gotten really sick the week before UT. I think I was just worn out. The begining of April was very tough with training and getting Michael ready. I ended up relapsing while I was in UT. But I made it for all of Michael's celebrations and dropped him off at the MTC and that's all that mattered.
The MTC was quite an experience (MTC = Missionary Training Center). It was such a good energy there - everyone was so happy. It was hard to say good-bye to him. I watched him walk out that door and to know it's the last time I'll see him for another two years was ... indescribably. It's a mixture of sadness but happiness knowing he is serving the Lord.
When we got back Sunday we had some family from New Zealand who had been staying at our place for a few days. It was wonderful to see them. It was as if no time had past since we last saw each other, but it had actually been two years. We had wonderful conversations and it was truly a joy to have them. I was so exhausted as we were up until 1-2am each night catching up, then I was up in the morning to go to work. Needless to say I still haven't recovered from my illness yet.
Today - Saturday - I slept all day. I think I actually got up around 1130am. It was wonderful and I really feel good.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Home sick again
Wow - this thing has really kicked my butt. I'm home again - puffy eyes, draining nose and wet cough. Yeah .. nice.
Thank goodness for laptops and Internet. I've been fielding calls, IM's and email's most of the day and I tell ya, I feel I get more done at home (sans children) then at the office. I have more focus and time to answer emails. I'm thinking of changing my open door policy because of that ... I will allow myself to close the door once in a while :-)
Blair took Michael to take his driving test. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that he passes! He's been practicing a lot in the past two weeks and it's been fun teaching him.
Thank goodness for laptops and Internet. I've been fielding calls, IM's and email's most of the day and I tell ya, I feel I get more done at home (sans children) then at the office. I have more focus and time to answer emails. I'm thinking of changing my open door policy because of that ... I will allow myself to close the door once in a while :-)
Blair took Michael to take his driving test. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that he passes! He's been practicing a lot in the past two weeks and it's been fun teaching him.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Updates
What a week we had last week! It was very busy but great!
Sunday - Tuesday I was down in Newport putting on a training of my new instructors. It was fun but very long 16 hour days.
Thursday was Michael's open house. It was great! We had so many people! Blair & the kids rearranged the house and we had a friend pick up all the food as me & Lama were working. We had such an outpouring from the ward. They have been so supportive with the kids these past 4 1/2 years. This ward loves them so much and I was so touched at how many people came out to wish him well. The first person arrived at 5pm and the last person left at 11pm. We were all exhausted but it was a fantastic night. My sister and her family even drove over to spend some time with us.
Friday morning was an early day - we had to be at the Temple at 8am. It was a bit rushed in the morning and traffic was terrible. We went separately with Blair, Amiga & Michael going first and I followed. It was a beautiful time in the Temple - no one from the ward was able to make it but it was the three of us with Michael and that was wonderful. I was so proud of him! He did so well. When the four of us were in the Celestial Room, it was a wonderful moment for me & Blair. It's been hard for me to know that he is leaving - although he didn't grow in my womb I love him like he is my son. I've struggled between being so proud of him and being scared for him. Selfishly I'm thinking of myself when he leaves - how different it will be not having him here. How everyone will be two years older. I wonder how he is going to be - how he will handle his mission. Will he be able to talk to people? Will he be ok being away from us? As big as he is and as on his own he has been - the boy forgets to do important things!! LOL...
But Blair & I have been praying for him for a while now. I was so proud of him at his open house. He was laughing and talking with people. He gave them hugs! That was big for Michael. I have watched him grow and blossom as the weeks have grown closer to him leaving. He has matured .. some. :-) I know this will be a great experience for him. I have faith that the Lord will bless him with the confidence to approach people and the words they need to hear to touch their heart. He is a sweet young man and has a solid testimony of the Gospel.
I know he will be a successful missionary.
The weekend was quiet. I got very sick. It started Sat. with last night being the worst. I had 102 fever so I stayed home today from work. I've been asleep most of the day and feel better. No appetite but that's ok. I can stand to miss a few meals..lol..
We're getting ready for our trip to UT. I'm super excited since I missed seeing everyone last weekend. It will be nice to get away for the week and hang out with the family.
Sunday - Tuesday I was down in Newport putting on a training of my new instructors. It was fun but very long 16 hour days.
Thursday was Michael's open house. It was great! We had so many people! Blair & the kids rearranged the house and we had a friend pick up all the food as me & Lama were working. We had such an outpouring from the ward. They have been so supportive with the kids these past 4 1/2 years. This ward loves them so much and I was so touched at how many people came out to wish him well. The first person arrived at 5pm and the last person left at 11pm. We were all exhausted but it was a fantastic night. My sister and her family even drove over to spend some time with us.
Friday morning was an early day - we had to be at the Temple at 8am. It was a bit rushed in the morning and traffic was terrible. We went separately with Blair, Amiga & Michael going first and I followed. It was a beautiful time in the Temple - no one from the ward was able to make it but it was the three of us with Michael and that was wonderful. I was so proud of him! He did so well. When the four of us were in the Celestial Room, it was a wonderful moment for me & Blair. It's been hard for me to know that he is leaving - although he didn't grow in my womb I love him like he is my son. I've struggled between being so proud of him and being scared for him. Selfishly I'm thinking of myself when he leaves - how different it will be not having him here. How everyone will be two years older. I wonder how he is going to be - how he will handle his mission. Will he be able to talk to people? Will he be ok being away from us? As big as he is and as on his own he has been - the boy forgets to do important things!! LOL...
But Blair & I have been praying for him for a while now. I was so proud of him at his open house. He was laughing and talking with people. He gave them hugs! That was big for Michael. I have watched him grow and blossom as the weeks have grown closer to him leaving. He has matured .. some. :-) I know this will be a great experience for him. I have faith that the Lord will bless him with the confidence to approach people and the words they need to hear to touch their heart. He is a sweet young man and has a solid testimony of the Gospel.
I know he will be a successful missionary.
The weekend was quiet. I got very sick. It started Sat. with last night being the worst. I had 102 fever so I stayed home today from work. I've been asleep most of the day and feel better. No appetite but that's ok. I can stand to miss a few meals..lol..
We're getting ready for our trip to UT. I'm super excited since I missed seeing everyone last weekend. It will be nice to get away for the week and hang out with the family.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
I'm hungry.
I had this 'brilliant' idea of having nachos tonight. I took out a pound of meat to defrost and when I came home from work I fried the meat and whipped up some nachos. Super fast and the kids loved it. But by the time I was almost finished, I felt sick from the meat/cheese/sour cream combo. ugh... Geeze - when I buy them, they are great. The kids loved them.
So now I sit - hungry. Thinking if I want to bust out the chicken now ..
I'm so excited - we are taking our first set of family pictures this Sat.!! I've wanted to take these for a long time .. but just never got around to it. I have a friend who works for me who's a photographer - she's great! She's going to do it for us and I'm just thrilled!!
Problem is I'm the only one ..lol.. Oh well... I know it will work out great!
I had this 'brilliant' idea of having nachos tonight. I took out a pound of meat to defrost and when I came home from work I fried the meat and whipped up some nachos. Super fast and the kids loved it. But by the time I was almost finished, I felt sick from the meat/cheese/sour cream combo. ugh... Geeze - when I buy them, they are great. The kids loved them.
So now I sit - hungry. Thinking if I want to bust out the chicken now ..
I'm so excited - we are taking our first set of family pictures this Sat.!! I've wanted to take these for a long time .. but just never got around to it. I have a friend who works for me who's a photographer - she's great! She's going to do it for us and I'm just thrilled!!
Problem is I'm the only one ..lol.. Oh well... I know it will work out great!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Savanah's award
My baby received an award in Excellence in Art at school today! She was surprised! They don't tell the kids they are getting awards, just send home a note for the parents. She gave it to us this morning (she forgot last night - thank goodness Blair looked in her bag!). Blair showed up at school and she was wondering why he was there .. LOL... I'm so glad he was and he snapped this cute picture. He's there now waiting for the girls to get out and take them to celebrate! Ice cream's all around!
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Lucky Saturday
What a gorgeous day today! This day is just what you think of when you think of a Spring Day. The sun is out, blue cloudless skies and just the slightest breeze. I couldn't stay in.
We work up late - I have to work on that. While I love and need the rest, I loose most of the day. We got up at 11am and got ready. Had breakfast and even though my house needs a major cleaning, I just couldn't stay in. My Sweetie Girl was so antsy - begging, yes begging me to take her to the park. The Hubbs had to get ready for work so we called up Corina to go with us. Just as we were putting the scooter in the car, Raymond came up the driveway and hopped in the car. I love it when we all do things together. So we drove over to one Pier then the other. We ended up at the Aquarium at the last pier and had a great time! We were there for about an hour and then ended up at the park down the street. Ray was extremely bored - Sweetie Girl was very happy running around playing. We were there for about 1/2 an hour then we went to the car.
On the grass I found $5!! LOL.. the kids were all excited and proclaimed it a LUCKY SATURDAY!! We nearly fell over laughing because we had proclaimed it earlier as SHAME SATURDAY! LOL... Shame is like moded .. you do something and get embarrassed and we yell out Shame! I know so juvenile but we live for catching someone getting shamed. lol...
Here's why we all got 'shamed'
- when I was at the Pier, some tourist asked me to take their pictures. I took it once, it didn't take. So I took it again and it captured. As I was handing back the camera to them it literally flew out of my hand and hit the pier and almost went over the edge. It hit Hard! OMGosh .. as I am apologizing, Raymond, Corina & Savanah are cracking up and the girls go - Shame! They laughed all the way down the pier as I giggled through my embarrassment..LOL..
- At the park Corina was standing on the baby swings. After the 2nd time I told her to get off it, I turned to talk to Raymond and then heard a cRaSh! We both turn around to see Corina on the sand flat on her back and one foot tangled up in the swing! (I'm totally cracking up as I'm writing this!) So I yell - you alright? She lays laughing on the ground and says yeah... so I go back to talk to Raymond and realize she was still on the ground. Hello! she was so stuck in the swing! So me and Raymond are cracking up and I swear it took me a few minutes to get her big ol foot out of the swing. LOL.. she was a good sport. A year ago she would have cried but she just laughed. Then ... here it comes .. Savanah yells from the bars: Corina you got SHAMED!! Hahahhaha..
- As Corina is sitting on the bench recovering from her shame, Raymond is standing in front of us. He picks up Savanah's scooter and starts swinging it around in a "cool" kind of way. You know what's gonna happened right? (giggle)
BONK! The scooter hit him in the head. Oh my! Corina & I were busting up!! Ha! He took it well and started laughing.. he's all 'oh man!' .. lol .. so it was my turn to yell - SHAME!
It was shortly after that that we decided to leave before we shamed ourselves into a hospital or something! LOL..
Wow - that took a long time to write. I was laughing recalling our fun day. It was good to find that $5 and rename the day; Lucky Saturday.
We work up late - I have to work on that. While I love and need the rest, I loose most of the day. We got up at 11am and got ready. Had breakfast and even though my house needs a major cleaning, I just couldn't stay in. My Sweetie Girl was so antsy - begging, yes begging me to take her to the park. The Hubbs had to get ready for work so we called up Corina to go with us. Just as we were putting the scooter in the car, Raymond came up the driveway and hopped in the car. I love it when we all do things together. So we drove over to one Pier then the other. We ended up at the Aquarium at the last pier and had a great time! We were there for about an hour and then ended up at the park down the street. Ray was extremely bored - Sweetie Girl was very happy running around playing. We were there for about 1/2 an hour then we went to the car.
On the grass I found $5!! LOL.. the kids were all excited and proclaimed it a LUCKY SATURDAY!! We nearly fell over laughing because we had proclaimed it earlier as SHAME SATURDAY! LOL... Shame is like moded .. you do something and get embarrassed and we yell out Shame! I know so juvenile but we live for catching someone getting shamed. lol...
Here's why we all got 'shamed'
- when I was at the Pier, some tourist asked me to take their pictures. I took it once, it didn't take. So I took it again and it captured. As I was handing back the camera to them it literally flew out of my hand and hit the pier and almost went over the edge. It hit Hard! OMGosh .. as I am apologizing, Raymond, Corina & Savanah are cracking up and the girls go - Shame! They laughed all the way down the pier as I giggled through my embarrassment..LOL..
- At the park Corina was standing on the baby swings. After the 2nd time I told her to get off it, I turned to talk to Raymond and then heard a cRaSh! We both turn around to see Corina on the sand flat on her back and one foot tangled up in the swing! (I'm totally cracking up as I'm writing this!) So I yell - you alright? She lays laughing on the ground and says yeah... so I go back to talk to Raymond and realize she was still on the ground. Hello! she was so stuck in the swing! So me and Raymond are cracking up and I swear it took me a few minutes to get her big ol foot out of the swing. LOL.. she was a good sport. A year ago she would have cried but she just laughed. Then ... here it comes .. Savanah yells from the bars: Corina you got SHAMED!! Hahahhaha..
- As Corina is sitting on the bench recovering from her shame, Raymond is standing in front of us. He picks up Savanah's scooter and starts swinging it around in a "cool" kind of way. You know what's gonna happened right? (giggle)
BONK! The scooter hit him in the head. Oh my! Corina & I were busting up!! Ha! He took it well and started laughing.. he's all 'oh man!' .. lol .. so it was my turn to yell - SHAME!
It was shortly after that that we decided to leave before we shamed ourselves into a hospital or something! LOL..
Wow - that took a long time to write. I was laughing recalling our fun day. It was good to find that $5 and rename the day; Lucky Saturday.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Busy Day
We had a really busy the last few days. Last night (Friday) The Hubbs & I took Chad & Corina out to dinner at TGIFridays. I haven't been there in years! It was ok - but I didn't like where we were sitting. Blair had a clear view of a TV and was hooked on the game, Chad & Corina were playing with their kids menus so I was trying to engage anyone in a conversation but it didn't happen. My Sweetie Girl was at her first friends play date. We dropped her off at 5 and picked her up at 8p. I'll tell ya, it took a lot for Big Daddy to let his baby girl out of his sight! I'm glad - she was with a nice little girl who has a great family. :-)
Dinner was great then we picked up Savanah and headed to Target. Of course we were just going for shoes.
Right...
A cart & 1/2 later we were out the door and back at home loaded up with snacks and 4 new movies. Kids were pottied hands & face washed and we spread out the blankets and threw in Pirates of the Caribbean 3. I was asleep in about 15 mins. Grr... I woke up after the movie and Blair had taken Corina home. The 4 of us slept in the living room and didn't wake up until 12pm! It was wonderful.
So today started late ..lol.. had a lot of catching up to do. After the hubbs went to work I left for Costco. The girls & I were ready to go then Michael & Raymond decided to go too. Chad went to his friends house. So we all went to Costco, had lunch and shopped. I swear we were in there for 2 hours! After Costco it was home to put the food away and go to the bathroom. We piled in the car again and it was off to Borders. Michael loves to read & I usually take him to Barnes & Noble so Boarders was a nice change. I finally found my book - Wicked! I've been wanting to read it forever. The girls & I are hooked on the music. We watch YouTube video's of Wicked all the time and we sing the songs everyday! LOL... so we've been wanting to see the play that's over here at the Pantages Theater. Tickets are pricey so we'll have to see. In the meantime, we'll start with the book. They still don't understand the whole Wicked/Oz relationship even though I've explained it 100 times. But maybe with the book they'll get it :-)
After Borders it was off to the mall. The boys took off on their own and the girls & I hit 3 different stores trying to find shoes for Savanah. She's so darn picky! Finally ended up at Sketchers and found some cute shoes on sale! Then I went to exchange a shirt and try on some clothes. Raymond was texting me: R U done yet? lol... next thing I know here they come down the isle of Lane Bryant. so I gave them the car keys and off they went.
Savanah & I ended up at the car and there was no one there! So I'm calling Raymond and I look up and see them 2 rows over! LOL.. I was cracking up! Usually *I'm* the one who always gets lost and he always teases me.
Then it was off to Target for some forgotten items. Wheew! Then their mom called so I dropped them off and was still off running!
I didn't get home until 9:30p. Wow .. I haven't been out like that in a long time. I still have to divide the meat and get clothes ready for church.
So here I sit, sore feet and very tired. But it was a good weekend and as busy as it was it was invigorating!
Oh yeah - Michael passed his written test & now has his permit! Yay!
Dinner was great then we picked up Savanah and headed to Target. Of course we were just going for shoes.
Right...
A cart & 1/2 later we were out the door and back at home loaded up with snacks and 4 new movies. Kids were pottied hands & face washed and we spread out the blankets and threw in Pirates of the Caribbean 3. I was asleep in about 15 mins. Grr... I woke up after the movie and Blair had taken Corina home. The 4 of us slept in the living room and didn't wake up until 12pm! It was wonderful.
So today started late ..lol.. had a lot of catching up to do. After the hubbs went to work I left for Costco. The girls & I were ready to go then Michael & Raymond decided to go too. Chad went to his friends house. So we all went to Costco, had lunch and shopped. I swear we were in there for 2 hours! After Costco it was home to put the food away and go to the bathroom. We piled in the car again and it was off to Borders. Michael loves to read & I usually take him to Barnes & Noble so Boarders was a nice change. I finally found my book - Wicked! I've been wanting to read it forever. The girls & I are hooked on the music. We watch YouTube video's of Wicked all the time and we sing the songs everyday! LOL... so we've been wanting to see the play that's over here at the Pantages Theater. Tickets are pricey so we'll have to see. In the meantime, we'll start with the book. They still don't understand the whole Wicked/Oz relationship even though I've explained it 100 times. But maybe with the book they'll get it :-)
After Borders it was off to the mall. The boys took off on their own and the girls & I hit 3 different stores trying to find shoes for Savanah. She's so darn picky! Finally ended up at Sketchers and found some cute shoes on sale! Then I went to exchange a shirt and try on some clothes. Raymond was texting me: R U done yet? lol... next thing I know here they come down the isle of Lane Bryant. so I gave them the car keys and off they went.
Savanah & I ended up at the car and there was no one there! So I'm calling Raymond and I look up and see them 2 rows over! LOL.. I was cracking up! Usually *I'm* the one who always gets lost and he always teases me.
Then it was off to Target for some forgotten items. Wheew! Then their mom called so I dropped them off and was still off running!
I didn't get home until 9:30p. Wow .. I haven't been out like that in a long time. I still have to divide the meat and get clothes ready for church.
So here I sit, sore feet and very tired. But it was a good weekend and as busy as it was it was invigorating!
Oh yeah - Michael passed his written test & now has his permit! Yay!
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Updates
Wow! It's been a while - lot's has been going on.
Getting ready for Michael's mission. The Hubb's took Michael for his written test today at the DMV. LOL... I've been telling him for months to go and do this but he had no real desire/motivation too. But now the countdown is on and we sat him down and said: look - you are not going to be riding your bike in the snow, you need a license! So his mom made him an appointment and he's there now. :)
My Sweetie Girl lost her first tooth! She looks adorable and she talks sooo cute now! It's hard watching her grow up as I come to realize that yes indeed, she may really be our last child. I pray she isn't but as I'm coming up to my - Yikes - 35th birthday in a few weeks, it looks as though she is. Wow - I remember when my mom was 35... lol.. she seemed so old! Hahahaha .. I still feel 25 though... is that a good thing?
Raymond is working on his Eagle book. It's a lot of hard work! I'm trying to put all his pictures together and organize them so I can put them in order. Wheew! We took over 300 pictures! I wrote out my letter for him and have to mail that out. I keep reminding him everyday that he needs to ask one of his teachers to write a letter for him too but he keeps forgetting. Grrr... Last night I told him to set his alarm to remind him and this morning I texted him. He better come home with a teacher's ok! LOL..
Last week we went to the movies with Gerald, Lana & their kids. It was fun! Michael & Blair went on splits with the missionaries and I took the rest of the kids with me. Of course Chad & Raymond had to sit by themselves - whatever - but the rest of us all sat in one row. It was so much fun! and it was great seeing G & L again. We saw College Road Trip - so cute! It had some really funny parts. It was a good evening.
Oh yeah - here is my husband's new love!
He is in love with this TV! Can't get him off his Xbox now ...
Getting ready for Michael's mission. The Hubb's took Michael for his written test today at the DMV. LOL... I've been telling him for months to go and do this but he had no real desire/motivation too. But now the countdown is on and we sat him down and said: look - you are not going to be riding your bike in the snow, you need a license! So his mom made him an appointment and he's there now. :)
My Sweetie Girl lost her first tooth! She looks adorable and she talks sooo cute now! It's hard watching her grow up as I come to realize that yes indeed, she may really be our last child. I pray she isn't but as I'm coming up to my - Yikes - 35th birthday in a few weeks, it looks as though she is. Wow - I remember when my mom was 35... lol.. she seemed so old! Hahahaha .. I still feel 25 though... is that a good thing?
Raymond is working on his Eagle book. It's a lot of hard work! I'm trying to put all his pictures together and organize them so I can put them in order. Wheew! We took over 300 pictures! I wrote out my letter for him and have to mail that out. I keep reminding him everyday that he needs to ask one of his teachers to write a letter for him too but he keeps forgetting. Grrr... Last night I told him to set his alarm to remind him and this morning I texted him. He better come home with a teacher's ok! LOL..
Last week we went to the movies with Gerald, Lana & their kids. It was fun! Michael & Blair went on splits with the missionaries and I took the rest of the kids with me. Of course Chad & Raymond had to sit by themselves - whatever - but the rest of us all sat in one row. It was so much fun! and it was great seeing G & L again. We saw College Road Trip - so cute! It had some really funny parts. It was a good evening.
Oh yeah - here is my husband's new love!
He is in love with this TV! Can't get him off his Xbox now ...
Monday, February 18, 2008
Our fun day
What a fun day we had!
I went into work early for a conference call this morning and got the call about 10am that my Sweetie Girl was running a fever. This is her 4th day with a fever but it was low grade - 100.2. Son was at my sister's house so I left work at 12p to pick Son up and get home in time for the Hubbs to go to work. Son & I had a great ride home - I bought us some snack wraps. We got home and the Hubbs was fast asleep and my Sweetie Girl was watching Sponge Bob. I laid on the couch and crashed! Didn't get up until 3:30P!
I woke up to a commercial to this:
On a whim I called the cinema and found out the last movie in matinee was in 25 mins.! So I gave Sweetie Girl some tylenol, we all went to the bathroom and then jumped in the car for the movies! Being that it was only 4:20p in the afternoon the theater wasn't that crowded. We got great seats, a good price and bought a large popcorn to split. The movie was GREAT!!!!!!!! Son really liked it - although he tried to play it cool and said it was 'aight'.. LOL.. There were some really loud parts & some 'scary' parts for my Sweetie Girl that she hid her head, but after the movie was over she proclaimed that she needed to bring Daddy to see the movie because it was sooo good!
After the movie we found a great sale at Tilly's for a new pair of jeans for Son. Then it was off to Target for Son's new underwear (wow - he's in a size 16!!) and found a pair of pants for Sweetie Girl - $2.48 & a pair of pj's for $4!! Love Target Clearence!
Then we drove through Carl's and came home and had a picnic on the floor and watched the new Fairly Odd Parents - Fairly odd baby. LOL... Then it was showers and bed.
It was a wonderful day - just the three of us. We missed Daddy but sometimes its fun just for Mom and the kids to do things together. :)
I went into work early for a conference call this morning and got the call about 10am that my Sweetie Girl was running a fever. This is her 4th day with a fever but it was low grade - 100.2. Son was at my sister's house so I left work at 12p to pick Son up and get home in time for the Hubbs to go to work. Son & I had a great ride home - I bought us some snack wraps. We got home and the Hubbs was fast asleep and my Sweetie Girl was watching Sponge Bob. I laid on the couch and crashed! Didn't get up until 3:30P!
I woke up to a commercial to this:
On a whim I called the cinema and found out the last movie in matinee was in 25 mins.! So I gave Sweetie Girl some tylenol, we all went to the bathroom and then jumped in the car for the movies! Being that it was only 4:20p in the afternoon the theater wasn't that crowded. We got great seats, a good price and bought a large popcorn to split. The movie was GREAT!!!!!!!! Son really liked it - although he tried to play it cool and said it was 'aight'.. LOL.. There were some really loud parts & some 'scary' parts for my Sweetie Girl that she hid her head, but after the movie was over she proclaimed that she needed to bring Daddy to see the movie because it was sooo good!
After the movie we found a great sale at Tilly's for a new pair of jeans for Son. Then it was off to Target for Son's new underwear (wow - he's in a size 16!!) and found a pair of pants for Sweetie Girl - $2.48 & a pair of pj's for $4!! Love Target Clearence!
Then we drove through Carl's and came home and had a picnic on the floor and watched the new Fairly Odd Parents - Fairly odd baby. LOL... Then it was showers and bed.
It was a wonderful day - just the three of us. We missed Daddy but sometimes its fun just for Mom and the kids to do things together. :)
Tag!
LOL.. thanks Nimo! This was fun :-) Here goes!
tagged
A: The rules of the game are posted at the beginning. B: Each player answers the questions about themselves. C: At the end of the post, the player then tags 3 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.
10 years ago…
This is not a fun time in my life and it's weird to think of me married to anyone else by Blair, but 10 years ago I was married to my first husband who has serious mental issues and a big drug habbit that I didn't know about and wishing for the day he would leave. Son was going on 4 and looking back I was in hell.
Fast forward 10 years and THANK GOODNESS!! We are out of that situation!! :-)
5 things on my to-do list:
1. Help organize Raymond's Eagle Scout Project (phone calls, hours tracking sheet)
2. Laundry - washing and folding
3. Clean my room (been on my list for months!)
4. Working on some projects for work
5. Adding to my notebook of organizing my house
I enjoy
1. Being with my husband
2. Getting lost in a book
3. Singing
4. Movies
5. Window shopping
What would I do if I were suddenly made a billionaire?
1. Pay off all our debt!
2. Pay off debts of all our family
3. Set up trust funds for all the family kids on both sides
4. Set up both sets of parents and siblings
5. Invest, Invest, INVEST!
3 of my bad habits:
1. I'm a carb freak - love me some Fries!
2. I don't work out. Ever.
3. I wash & fold but rarely put away
5 places I have lived
1. Multiple cities in So Cal.
2. Laie, HI (3 months at 8 yrs. old - great summer!)
3.
4.
5.
5 jobs I have had
1. Target phone operator and store announcer
2. Recepitionist
3. Operations Manager
4. Sales Manager
5. Promotions/Marketing
5 thing people don’t know about me
1. I love going out dancing! But I have little rythmn.. LOL
2. I've always wanted a tatoo & want to go to a tatoo convention
3. I work great under pressure - it's when I make my best decisions
4. I contstanly make lists and live by them! I have to de-clutter my mind and write everything down - anywhere & everywhere.
5. I wish I could draw or paint
LOL..that was fun! Ok .. I tag: Melissa, Katie, Teresa & Nau
tagged
A: The rules of the game are posted at the beginning. B: Each player answers the questions about themselves. C: At the end of the post, the player then tags 3 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.
10 years ago…
This is not a fun time in my life and it's weird to think of me married to anyone else by Blair, but 10 years ago I was married to my first husband who has serious mental issues and a big drug habbit that I didn't know about and wishing for the day he would leave. Son was going on 4 and looking back I was in hell.
Fast forward 10 years and THANK GOODNESS!! We are out of that situation!! :-)
5 things on my to-do list:
1. Help organize Raymond's Eagle Scout Project (phone calls, hours tracking sheet)
2. Laundry - washing and folding
3. Clean my room (been on my list for months!)
4. Working on some projects for work
5. Adding to my notebook of organizing my house
I enjoy
1. Being with my husband
2. Getting lost in a book
3. Singing
4. Movies
5. Window shopping
What would I do if I were suddenly made a billionaire?
1. Pay off all our debt!
2. Pay off debts of all our family
3. Set up trust funds for all the family kids on both sides
4. Set up both sets of parents and siblings
5. Invest, Invest, INVEST!
3 of my bad habits:
1. I'm a carb freak - love me some Fries!
2. I don't work out. Ever.
3. I wash & fold but rarely put away
5 places I have lived
1. Multiple cities in So Cal.
2. Laie, HI (3 months at 8 yrs. old - great summer!)
3.
4.
5.
5 jobs I have had
1. Target phone operator and store announcer
2. Recepitionist
3. Operations Manager
4. Sales Manager
5. Promotions/Marketing
5 thing people don’t know about me
1. I love going out dancing! But I have little rythmn.. LOL
2. I've always wanted a tatoo & want to go to a tatoo convention
3. I work great under pressure - it's when I make my best decisions
4. I contstanly make lists and live by them! I have to de-clutter my mind and write everything down - anywhere & everywhere.
5. I wish I could draw or paint
LOL..that was fun! Ok .. I tag: Melissa, Katie, Teresa & Nau
Thursday, February 14, 2008
SHOCK!!
What a surprise! The Hubbs and I don't typically buy each other gifts on Valentine's Day. We always say that we don't like forced celebrations of love. I know he loves me - he works hard for me and the children and he can be so kind and tender. So he tells me the other day that he isn't buying me anything for Valentine's. I was a little offended because I have never even hinted that I expected something for VDay and told him so.
So today I'm on my way home. I was talking to my sweetie girl and she said she had a surprise for me. So the hubbs gets on the phone and says - yep, the kids got you something for Valentine's Day. I was excited thinking they got me a sweet card or nightgown or something ...
I get home and the kids are hopping around so excited and sit me down on the couch. I closed my eyes and held out my hands as directed. Hubby came and sat down next to me to make sure my eyes were closed .. LOL..
This is what I got:
Burberry Brit perfume!!
The hubbs has been planning it for months! I was so touched - so truly touched that I couldn't speak for a moment. He picked out this fragrance especially for me. He knew what types of smells I like and what type he likes - and he found a great combo. It touched me that he put so much thought and effort into this special gift. The children were excited and they all agreed this was the perfect fragrance for me. "Mommy smells beautiful!!"
I felt beautiful .. and loved. :-)
So today I'm on my way home. I was talking to my sweetie girl and she said she had a surprise for me. So the hubbs gets on the phone and says - yep, the kids got you something for Valentine's Day. I was excited thinking they got me a sweet card or nightgown or something ...
I get home and the kids are hopping around so excited and sit me down on the couch. I closed my eyes and held out my hands as directed. Hubby came and sat down next to me to make sure my eyes were closed .. LOL..
This is what I got:
Burberry Brit perfume!!
The hubbs has been planning it for months! I was so touched - so truly touched that I couldn't speak for a moment. He picked out this fragrance especially for me. He knew what types of smells I like and what type he likes - and he found a great combo. It touched me that he put so much thought and effort into this special gift. The children were excited and they all agreed this was the perfect fragrance for me. "Mommy smells beautiful!!"
I felt beautiful .. and loved. :-)
Monday, February 11, 2008
My whirlwind trip to Hawaii is over. Although I was only gone 2 1/2 days, it feels like I've been gone for weeks. I'm having a hard time acclimating myself today at work.
The kids & I got in Friday afternoon. I rented a car (thank goodness!) and we were off! I loved having the freedom to rent. In the past I've always had either my brother or sister come pick me up then I was on their time and gas and usually ended up just hanging out. Thankfully due to DH's job we enjoy the blessings of cheap car rentals. It has given me a wonderful feeling of independance and the last few times I've been home have been terrific.
We spent Friday visiting with my sisers and brother. I saw my brothers newest baby - his 4th girl. She is a doll! Beautiful - simple breathtaking. Perfect features, great skin, no coneshapped head - she could have been a model baby! And just as sweet as can be. Darling Daughter enjoyed seeing her girl cousins. She & my brothers oldest girl are 6 months apart & are like two peas in a pod.
Son was feeling the estrogen .. LOL... All the little girls love Son. He's a very kind hearted and loving boy. I think they feel safe with him so that's why they swarm him and won't leave him alone. His paitences is long but he can get overwhelmed. But they just love him!
Sat. was the funeral.
All.
Day.
We got there late at 9:30a and we left at 5pm. It was a beautiful, simple service. We had so many people come! Family flew in from the other islands, Samoa, UT and other parts of the US. I got to hear wonderful stories and learn more about her - wonderful accomplishments and circumstances that helped me uderstand who she was.
Beautiful Laie Cemetary -->
She was widowed at 32 and had 4 young children to take care of. My cousin Eric (her son) told us how after the funeral she told all the kids to get their things together and she was taking them on a picnic to the beach. And they had a wonderful day - and a wonderful memory. After her funeral Sat. we all went to the beach. There was about 15-20 of us - young and old alike. And we swam and have fun in the water. And we made wonderful memories.
I had such a great time being with family. We all know the Gospel and we were comforted to know that she is free from the limitations of her broken body. Free to work as hard as she liked too. And she is with our Father in Heaven.
Seeing the outpouring of love that day made me so very thankful for all that I have. For my husband and children and for the Gospel.
The kids & I got in Friday afternoon. I rented a car (thank goodness!) and we were off! I loved having the freedom to rent. In the past I've always had either my brother or sister come pick me up then I was on their time and gas and usually ended up just hanging out. Thankfully due to DH's job we enjoy the blessings of cheap car rentals. It has given me a wonderful feeling of independance and the last few times I've been home have been terrific.
We spent Friday visiting with my sisers and brother. I saw my brothers newest baby - his 4th girl. She is a doll! Beautiful - simple breathtaking. Perfect features, great skin, no coneshapped head - she could have been a model baby! And just as sweet as can be. Darling Daughter enjoyed seeing her girl cousins. She & my brothers oldest girl are 6 months apart & are like two peas in a pod.
Son was feeling the estrogen .. LOL... All the little girls love Son. He's a very kind hearted and loving boy. I think they feel safe with him so that's why they swarm him and won't leave him alone. His paitences is long but he can get overwhelmed. But they just love him!
Sat. was the funeral.
All.
Day.
We got there late at 9:30a and we left at 5pm. It was a beautiful, simple service. We had so many people come! Family flew in from the other islands, Samoa, UT and other parts of the US. I got to hear wonderful stories and learn more about her - wonderful accomplishments and circumstances that helped me uderstand who she was.
Beautiful Laie Cemetary -->She was widowed at 32 and had 4 young children to take care of. My cousin Eric (her son) told us how after the funeral she told all the kids to get their things together and she was taking them on a picnic to the beach. And they had a wonderful day - and a wonderful memory. After her funeral Sat. we all went to the beach. There was about 15-20 of us - young and old alike. And we swam and have fun in the water. And we made wonderful memories.
I had such a great time being with family. We all know the Gospel and we were comforted to know that she is free from the limitations of her broken body. Free to work as hard as she liked too. And she is with our Father in Heaven.
Seeing the outpouring of love that day made me so very thankful for all that I have. For my husband and children and for the Gospel.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Free Hugs
Never heard of the band but this was going around email at work yesterday. I love the concept.
Some days - we just need that human touch.
Compassion.
Love.
Some days - we just need a hug.
Some days - we just need that human touch.
Compassion.
Love.
Some days - we just need a hug.
So much to do
Sat. is my Aunty's funeral in Hawaii but I still have to decorate for our Ward's Valentine's dinner & dance.
Thankfully I started packing our stuff last night and my wonderful hubby did all our laundry. I got my finger & toe nails done - woo-hoo! I haven't had my fingernails done in about 7 years. I like it. I have a short french manicure - professional and pretty I think. Of course hubby wants me to get long painted nails next time .. he thinks that's more sexy :-) LOL..
Our flight leaves tomorrow at 845am. I was supposed to stay with my younger brother & his family but their plumbing broke so now I'm going to squeeze in with our oldest sister - her hub & 3 kids, my 2 other sisters and my youngest brother, me and my 2 kids. It will be a zoo but fun.
This will be the first time us 6 siblings will be together in HI since my younger brothers wedding 8 years ago. We are going to try and take a siblings picture tomorrow afternoon.
I'm excited to see everyone again - even if it's only for a day & 1/2. The kids & I are due back Sunday night. I wish I could stay longer but I'm thankful we are going at all.
Thankfully I started packing our stuff last night and my wonderful hubby did all our laundry. I got my finger & toe nails done - woo-hoo! I haven't had my fingernails done in about 7 years. I like it. I have a short french manicure - professional and pretty I think. Of course hubby wants me to get long painted nails next time .. he thinks that's more sexy :-) LOL..
Our flight leaves tomorrow at 845am. I was supposed to stay with my younger brother & his family but their plumbing broke so now I'm going to squeeze in with our oldest sister - her hub & 3 kids, my 2 other sisters and my youngest brother, me and my 2 kids. It will be a zoo but fun.
This will be the first time us 6 siblings will be together in HI since my younger brothers wedding 8 years ago. We are going to try and take a siblings picture tomorrow afternoon.
I'm excited to see everyone again - even if it's only for a day & 1/2. The kids & I are due back Sunday night. I wish I could stay longer but I'm thankful we are going at all.
