Fishy Kissy

To the little boy that stole my heart 11 years ago...

2011-01-13T06:07:00.000-08:00

Thanks for letting me still call you my little boy, and for still kissing me before you head into school every morning. I know you are growing up so quickly, but my one wish for you is to always keep a little part of that sweet lil boy in your heart. And, for some reason I know you always will.

What I think would be your top five for last year:

1. Having an astounding golf season and ending the year with a 4th place finish overall in your age group... Not really quite sure if you know the depths of how great that is. Sure you think the trophy is "pretty cool" but really buddy you have developed quite a talent. There is never a better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than watching you "hit the sticks." Your dad and I are so proud of you and can't wait to see what's in store for this season.

2. Hmmmmm, #2 what could it be...??? Oh yeah, your football team winning the STATE CHAMPIONSHIP...that was it! What a great season for you! You got to have your dad coach and you win the championship. Those memories will last a lifetime, and if it doesn't well I think I took about 600 pictures to remind you.=)

3. Would probably be our trip to Hawaii with Gran! What a great vacation...filled with sun and surf, playing and relaxing. We sure made the best out of everyday. You got to try out some snorkeling, not sure if you were to thrilled by that, but you did get to see a turtle. You got to golf with your Grandpa, you made some friends and learned the sport of "stinging chest rashes"...I mean body boarding.

4. Camping with Grammy and Papa Bill, Uncle Matt and Aunt Jaime up at Bear Lake. You and your sister had so much fun and we built so many memories. You and Uncle Matt having a water fight...he lost! Swimming in the freezing lake, and yummy s'mores by the campfire. Definitely some of the best memories over the summer.

5. Learning how to snowboard...It was pretty far out of your comfort zone...but you are always up for a challenge. You have such determination and when you put your heart into it you can do anything!

We love you buddy! Thanks for being the light in our eyes and the joy in our hearts! Hope this is the best birthday ever! Love you SMUCH!!!

Mom, Dad, Cabria and Jonesy

6 years ago today...

2010-10-11T07:30:00.001-07:00

...I was holding this tiny bundle of 6lbs. 5 oz. sweetness, kissing her forehead telling her how happy I was that she was finally here.

To my sweet baby girl:

CABRIA

C ~ Cherub...You are definitely our precious gift from heaven. God knew what he was doing when he sent you to us. He knew how our hearts ached for little girl, and he found the sweetest one and sent you down to us. We are so thankful for you, for everyday you remind us of the beauty in you and the beauty in all things. As much as it hurts to see the little baby side of you slowly fading away, I am so excited for the young lady that you are turning into.

A ~ All girl, and all things girlie! You are a lover of dresses and skirts and all things make-up...always have been and always will be. Glitter and bows and high heels and lip gloss, pink or purple, shiny and sparkly! You love dressing up, and singing and dancing! You are definitely a performer! Your new thing is videotaping yourself with my phone, the other day I found about 85 self-made videos of you singing and dancing to school songs, so sweet, I am keeping all of them!

B ~ BIG heart, huge! So sweet and so kind, so thoughtful and so giving. You love to snuggle with Dad and are always willing to share a treat or a snack with your bobo! You are such a loving soul. You care so much for everyone, and you have this knack for knowing when Mommy is sad or down, you are the first to come running with an armful of hugs and kisses. You really do brighten our each and everyday.

R ~ Radiant! Your sweet smile lights up the room! You heart beams with love and warmth! You are kind to your friends and classmates and always willing to help out. Mrs. Hargrove tells me all the time how she wishes she had 25 Cabrias in her class. You are doing so well in Kindergarten and are always so excited to tell me of the many things you learned in class that day.

I ~ Independent! You love doing your own thing! Whether it is your hair in the morning or your PB & J as an afternoon snack. You revel in the sense of accomplishment when you complete something on your own. You are always up for trying new things but also hold firm when you know it is something you don't want to do. You can't be talked into it, and that is ok by me. Hold on to that strong sense of resolve, you'll need it as you face new challenges!

A ~ Adored! By everyone, you are the light of our lives and we are so thankful for our sweet Cabria! Thank you for 6 years filled of the most amazing memories! Thanks for being our funny, quirky, silly daughter that always keeps us smiling! Thanks for all your love and hugs and kisses, because I know I couldn't face a day without out them! You are our blessing little princess and we love you from here to the moon and back again!

Love, Mom, Dad, Bobo and Jonesy!

Sam-I-Am

2010-09-27T07:16:00.000-07:00

Cabria was so proud of herself last night, she read Green Eggs and Ham, cover to cover last night all by herself. She is so sweet, and so clever! Kindergarten is really her thing, she loves it, even wants to go to school on Saturday. She has a sweet little friend named Maddy, and I just found out they leave out here on the West side too, Cabria couldn't be happier! Love you little girl, still can't believe you are almost 6.

LOVE THIS...so true

2010-05-20T07:13:00.001-07:00

"The biggest mistake I made is the one most of us make... I did not live in the moment enough. This is particularly clear now that the moment is gone, captured only in photographs. There is one picture of the three of [my children] sitting in the grass on a quilt in the shadow of the swing set on a summer day, ages six, four and one. And I wish I could remember what we ate, and what we talked about, and how they sounded, and how they looked when they slept that night. I wish I had not been in such a hurry to get on to the next thing: dinner, bath, book, bed. I wish I had treasured the doing a little more, and the getting it done a little less." ~Anna Quindlen

A few things about me...

2010-02-16T11:09:00.000-08:00

35 to be exact, in honor of turning 35 tomorrow. I thought if I write some of this down it will be a constant reminder of how grateful and lucky I truly am.

1. I don't too much mind turning 35. 30 was harder for some reason.

2. I am driven to the verge of insanity by people who chew with their mouth open, I am constantly on my children about this and as a result they will probably have to have some serious therapy as they get older.

3. I do believe laughter is the best medicine, the kind of laughing that makes your deep stomach muscles sore and your cheeks ache.

4. Most of the time it is Trace, making me laugh this hard!

5. I constantly worry about my mothering instincts...if I am being to hard on my kids, if I will screw them up.

6. I really want to write a book about my goofy daughter and all the silly things she has done in the past 5 years. Still haven't gotten around to it...someday maybe.

7. I was making a stain-glass carousel horse in Art my senior year of high school. It was huge and I worked so hard on that thing, but ended up not finishing it before I graduated so ended up having to trash the whole thing. So sad.

8. I love when my husband empties the dishwasher and cleans the kitchen, there is just something about walking into a sparkling clean kitchen that makes my heart sing.

9. I have a passion for cooking that I didn't know I had until recently, it makes me happy coming up with new recipes. Trace says I am better than Bobbly Flay and Cabria says I am the best "maker" in the world.

10. I LOVE the Cadbury mini eggs that come out at Easter, and could probably consume about 4 bags in one sitting.

11. I hold so much admiration for my mom, she has such a quiet strength about her. She has taught me so much about honesty and character, and how to overcome adversity. I love the fact that I can ask her opinion about anything and get an honest un-biased answer. I can only hope to be half the mother she has been to me.

12. There is not a day that passes that I don't think of Kylie. I wonder what she would be like today. Would she look like Michael or me, what kind of personality would she have. I miss her so much! I am thankful that she has her Papa and Uncle Nick taking care of her in Heaven.

13. I hate going to the Dr. My heart starts racing and I break out into a cold sweat while in the waiting room. Not really sure why???

14. I've always wanted to learn how to play an instrument...the guitar or the piano. I want to take guitar lessons with Trace.

15. I had a mini elementary school reunion back in December and was really nervous about it, but it turned out to be one of the best nights ever. It was great to see and re-connect with friends from my past. Almost therapeutic, I highly recommend it and never thought I would say that EVER.

16. Training Table's cheese fries with dipping sauce are the ultimate indulgence!

17. I miss my dad, I really wish he could be around to see what a character Cabria has turned into. I know how proud he would be of the young man Trace has grown into. I wish I could call him to ask his opinion about something or to get his take on a recipe I am cooking up.

18. I came up with the idea of putting a glass jar on the kitchen table with a bunch of random questions in it. We discuss 2 of the questions at dinner. The kids LOVE it, and are disappointed when we don't sit down to dinner together.

19. I love being a mom, and would probably have 12 children if I knew for certain that they would all be healthy.

20. Being pregnant is really the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. I was always in a constant state of worry (panic) the whole 9 months. So much so, I think that it robbed me of the joy that most experience when they are pregnant. I am and will always be eternally grateful for 1 beautiful baby I have in Heaven and the 2 beautiful children here on earth. God has truly blessed me.

21. I love the smell of home-made chocolate chip cookies baking in the oven.

22. I love laying in bed in the morning and listening to the birds chirping outside the window...a sure sign that spring is on it's way.

23. I can't believe that this September I will have been married to my high-school sweetheart for 15 years!!! We have definitely been through our share of heartache. I know that there is no one else I would have wanted to walk that journey with me.

24. There are few things that make me happier than seeing my children get along. Especially when it is Trace helping out his little sister. He is very protective of her and she adores him.

25. I adore my big brother, although I don't think he knows it. He has been through a lot in his life and I admire how he has come out on the other side. I need to tell him I love him more often.

24. It makes me sad that most of my family is in Scotland and that I can't see them as much as I would like. I would love for them to all experience a Thanksgiving in my home.

25. I am so thankful for my husband's family here. Cathy and Bill, Mike and Lynda, Matt and Jaime and Emma. Aunts Lynette, Nancee and Uncles Kevin, Steve and Derik. You are my family and have never treated me any differently. Thank you for accepting me and my family and loving me unconditionally.

26. I love that Michael has made it a tradition to take me up to Stein-Erikson lodge to celebrate our anniversary...it is such a great romantic getaway, if only just for a night.

27. I love entertaining at our house and LOVE our Halloween party every year, and the fact that it just keeps getting bigger and bigger.

28. I consider myself so lucky to be surrounded by so many wonderful friends. Some new and some old, I know that they would all do anything for me and am so thankful for that.

29. I hate that I always battle with my weight, and the fact that I work out so hard and nothing changes. I detest those people that can eat anything and never gain an ounce and that don't realize how hard some people struggle with it. I wish I could shield Cabria from ever having to deal with it.

30. I found out this year that I love sushi and oysters...thanks to my hubby. I am grateful that he sometimes forces me to try new things, because more often than not I end up loving it.

31. I HATE that I am such a people pleaser, it is my arch nemesis. I wish I had a thicker skin and didn't let things get to me.

32. I DREAM about the 7 layer chocolate cake from Costco, it whispers to me in the night! I hate the fact that my bum expands 3 inches if I even so much as sniff it's yumminess!

33. Spending time with family and friends in our backyard chatting the day away is my idea of the perfect day!

34. I wish I could have had a relationship with my grandparents. I see how close my kids are to theirs and realize how much I missed out on. I know how much their lives are enlightened by them. It gives my pure joy to see just how deep that bond runs!

35. I want to get back to watercoloring again. In fact, I would love to illustrate a children's book one day. Or maybe even write one and illustrate it myself!

Thanks for reading my ramblings...it was a great reminder of just how much 35 years has given me!

Not a baby anymore...

2010-02-08T12:54:00.000-08:00

Loving lipstick, Hannah Montana, dress-up, dancing around singing to Taylor Swift, picking out her own outfits and doing her own hair. She is so independent! So this was a rare occasion where she didn't have any make-up on and she let me do her hair. She has the sweetest disposition, and is loved way beyond words!

A boy and his dog!

2010-01-19T17:11:00.001-08:00

Why do you have to grow up so fast???

2010-01-13T07:51:00.000-08:00

~TRACE~

T= Treasured, from the first moment they laid you in my arms! I felt the bond then, but little did I realize that bond would grow stronger and stronger with each passing day.

R= Resilient, in your short 10 years you have had to endure more surgeries and recoveries than most people ever do in a lifetime. You never ceased to amaze your dad and I in how quickly you bounced back! You are and will always be our little trooper!

A= Admired, you have a fan-base that stretches for miles... You are a true friend, in the purest sense of the word. You would do anything for a buddy and you have even captured the heart of a few female admirers;-)

C= Courageous, you are always willing to try something new. More times than not you excel at it. You have such a quiet confidence about you though, you are more inclined to show others that you can do it rather than tell them!

E= Exceptional, in every aspect. You are brilliant, and can do anything you set your mind to. You are kind, compassionate and giving, you bring out the good in everyone you meet. You are really the only one that can make me laugh so hard that I cry. Your drive and determination set you apart, and has been known to leave your dad in awe.

I hope you know how lucky your dad and I are to call you our son. You make us want to be better people! We are so proud of all you have accomplished in your short ten years, but more than that we are so proud of the young man you have grown into. We cannot wait to see where your life takes you. Always know that we are behind you cheering you on! The possibilities are endless for you buddy! Thank you for the greatest 10 years ever, but most of all thank you for being you! WE LOVE YOU!!!

Mom, Dad and Cabria!!!

My CHERUBS!

2009-12-03T12:42:00.000-08:00

Look for this picture on a Christmas card near you soon!

BUT...

2009-08-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I had to do it! Took this pic at the zoo in San Diego, and really haven't stopped laughing to myself about it since! hahahhahahhehehehehehhohohohohoho!!! Oh and now it is my screen saver!

WHY???

2009-07-31T09:52:00.000-07:00

Why do they have to grow up so fast? Why can't they stay our sweet little babies forever?

WHY, WHY WHY???

Well at least they love eachother...most of the time!

P.S. I love you way toooooo much!!!

All that AND a bag of chips!!!

2009-07-30T10:12:00.000-07:00

Not only is he the world's best dad...

The guy's got SKILLZ!

I often watch in awe and think to myself...you really missed ur calling...

Thanks babe for being all that and more to us! Thanks for loving us, taking care of us, thanks for being the whole bag of chips! Even if that bag means you aren't an NBA star and we are not filthy rich, I love us just the way we are!

Emma-lou and Schmatty-poo!

2009-07-29T09:24:00.000-07:00

This is my brother-in-law Matt, and his sweet baby girl Emma. I have known Matt since he was knee high to a grasshopper (insert Mike saying "what do you mean, he still is?") but really have known him since he was 7. Matt has a heart full of love and I would never have fathomed that it could get any bigger, but guess what, it did! It seems to have actually tripled in size...all due to that little precious girl he's holding above his head. Matt's heart is dripping with love for that little girl. It is the best thing ever to witness! He is such an unbelievable dad. Emma-lou, you are one lucky little girl!!!

I'm a Barbie girl!

2009-07-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

I love this picture...it captures pure Cabria!

"RUFF" Rider!

2009-07-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

So, it took him a bout 4 years to do, but, yes my son, the little guy that swore he'd never ride a bike, now dons the name MJ "RUFF RIDER" Walters! It all started at the beginning of summer when Cabria graduated off her trike to a big girl bike. Trace decides that he might want to test the waters again with a new bike. Well, his father says "we buy this bike for you, you will learn how to ride it, right, right good!" Fast forward 2 weeks and the new bike lay gathering dust in the garage. So in order to save my sanity and well frankly that little boy's life, I said "k, today is the day you ride your bike"...lowered the seat a little bit so he could rest his feet comfortably on the ground and that little guy who swore he'd never ride a bike took off into the sunset and he hasn't stopped since...ohhh and only a few minor setbacks!

My 'lil' guy!

2009-07-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Father and Son Tournament 6/09. Came in 3rd place we think, still haven't posted the leaderboard.

Talks with dad!

Fan club!

Thinking about the next hole!

Watch out TIGER...here comes TRACE!

More on Mom's day!

2009-05-15T09:49:00.001-07:00

Angelic!

Show me your mean face!

This is just just plain funny!

Sparring with skewers!

Sooo sweet!

Mother's Day Festivities!

2009-05-15T09:03:00.001-07:00

My amazing mom and my sweetie!

Jaime's dad and his g-friend.
Jaime's sweet Mom. Best mom-in law-ever!
Play with me Papa Bill!

Call me weird but I can't wait for this!

2009-05-14T15:44:00.000-07:00

Tuesday May 19th after American Idol! I'm there!

Hard at work!

2009-05-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

Trace getting some coaching in the backyard!
When I grow I want to be a vet, no wait a cow-boy girl, no wait on second thought maybe a golfer like bobo!

I am amazing and I know it!

First sign of spring!

2009-05-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

So recently I have received a bunch of crap about my lack of posts.....soooooo sorry! So here ya go. I have to go back a little ways to catch ya up on everything I have missed. It is the beginning of summer and this was the pic for the first of Spring!

I sent him back to the seventies...

2009-02-24T11:33:00.000-08:00

with the power of photoshop, and I think it turned out pretty cute! Well he's pretty cute to start with so it was an easy job!

Beauty babble

2009-02-23T12:16:00.000-08:00

One of her favorite sayings "mom, can we do makeovers?" with pleading eyes and and her sweet sweet smile! How can i say no to that! More times than not I don't shower 'til noon so I can get all the glitter off my face. I wouldn't trade any moment for the world. You have my heart baby girl and I love you so!

My sweet niece!

2009-02-19T08:38:00.000-08:00

She is so precious!

I love her so! Even is she thinks I am boring and yawns when I hold her!

I love you Uncle Mike but your still funny looking!

Thinking of investing in a pole...

2009-01-28T13:23:00.000-08:00

I must have cried for 15 minutes after getting this on an e-mail, thought I'd share it with all y'all!!!

Ok, one more...

hahahahah hoooooa hahahaha hehehehe FUNNY!!!

Happy 9th Birthday my Little Man!

2009-01-12T11:47:00.000-08:00

Wow, how fast 9 wonderful years have passed! 9 years ago Dad and I were patiently awaiting your arrival. I had just started my leave at the physical therapy clinic and was excited to spend the next 2 weeks getting your room finished up and washing and ironing all of your clothes, oh yeah and relaxing a little bit. You weren't having any of that. 2 days later just as Dad had gotten home from work and I told him that you had not been moving as much as you usually do, this sent us into panic mode and we rushed up to the hospital, no kidding 90 miles an hour on the freeway. It is a good thing we did though, because apparently I was in labor and you were ready to come out. They rushed me back to the surgical room and there's where you came into this world! Tears of joy streaming down our faces, you were our ray of sunshine and you have been ever since.

Our sunshine and forever the happy baby, there weren't too many things that made you mad. Just feed me and give me my blankie and I am a happy camper. You had your first surgery when you were 8 weeks old and you came through it like a trooper, just as you did all 6 of your surgeries. You and your blue blankie and your 2 fingers, hmmmmmm some things never change!!! We fell in love with you the first time we saw you and you continue to have us wrapped around your finger to this day!

Ever the soft-hearted, easy-going little man. Not too many things get to you even now. You seem to have a knack of taking everything with a grain of salt, 'cept when it comes to your sister, but we'll leave that for another day. I love your quiet confidence, whether a caught football pass or a great golf shot, you are so proud of yourself, almost as much as we are of you. Your focus and ambition are unrivaled. Your innocent acceptance of all people, treating everyone with respect and love. You inspire me each and everyday to be a better person. Your effervescent sweet spirit, the way you rub your hands together and jump up and down when your excited. The little things you do on your own without being told, inviting the new kid to play with you and your friends or taking your wallet to church on Sunday so you can give a dollar to the collection. Your un-wavering devotion for the Chargers...one year buddy, one year!

Never lose sight of the most important things in your life. Let your ambition be your guide and inspiration. Always remember how much we love you just for being you. Never accept anything less than the best you are worth so much more. Always reach for the stars and know that we are always behind you! Thank you for enriching our lives far beyond words, and most of all for being everything we could have asked for and more! We love you buddy, Happy 9th Birthday!

This about sums it up!

2009-01-07T20:42:00.000-08:00

This is my wish for you:

comfort on difficult days,

smiles when sadness intrudes,

rainbows to follow the clouds,

laughter to kiss your lips,

sunsets to warm your heart,

hugs when spirits sag,

beauty for your eyes to see,

friendships to brighten your being,

faith so that you can believe,

confidence for when you doubt,

courage to know yourself,

patience to accept the truth,

love to complete your life.

AUTHOR UNKNOWN

2008-12-30T09:46:00.000-08:00

I have been searching and searching for a title for this blog post. Can't seem to come up with one because every name seems so insignificant as to what the blog is about. It is about love, the power of giving, the pure kindness of people, it is about the most basic of needs, food, clothing shelter, something I think we all take for granted. Most of all it is about God and how he intervenes in the times when we need him most.

This year we came together as a family and realized how fortunate we are in that we all have most of our needs taken care of. Though we might not have everything, we sure have a lot. So instead of exchanging gifts we decided to try in some way to give back, to make sure in some small way that a family may have some of those basic needs for Christmas this year.

We asked Fr. Pires at our church if he knew of a family that might be in need this season. He did and it was then that our whole plan came into action. This is a family of 4 from El Salvador, Mom and Dad and two girls Erica who is 8 and Cathy who just turned 2. They moved to West Valley 2 years ago. Dad had a good job in construction and mom worked at a day care by the house. About 6 months ago the family was awakened by the sound of an intruder, dad fought off this mentally-ill man and in the process was stabbed in the back by a shovel. He has since had 3 surgeries and still cannot work. Mom works very hard, but $5/hr. doesn't make ends meet for a family of 4.

It was then that our family went to work and we wrapped all of the presents at out family Christmas party, and I will tell you it meant more to everyone there than opening any gift ever would. There were clothes, pajamas, boots and toys galore for the girls and jackets, hats and gloves for mom and dad. There was money and food and gift certificates and it filled the entire back of our car. THE OUT-POURING OF LOVE FROM OUR FAMILY IS INDESCRIBABLE! All you have to do is say the word need! What a testament to the power of love!

So last Monday night our family along with Fr. Pires delivered the gifts. Thankful doesn't even begin to describe feeling in that room. Fr. translated what the dad was saying through tear-filled eyes, "there are no words to describe how thankful I am to all of you, you are a blessing ,thank you, thank you, thank you!" You could literally feel his gratitude.

My gratitude goes to that beautiful family...I thank them for allowing us to share in the true meaning of Christmas! They are and will forever be part of my heart. You needed us, but more so I think we needed you!

I caught a FISH!

2008-11-18T08:42:00.000-08:00

Michael and Steve took Jack, Trace and Cabria fighing at a little pond in Herriman!

Boy was she excited to tell everyone about her fish that she caught!

She even got to reel it in!

More baby pics!

2008-11-04T11:40:00.000-08:00

Our newest "sleeping beauty!"

Love the pouty face!!!

Showing off my flexibility!

"Can you come play at my house?" Cabria's yells to baby Emma, through the glass of the nursery!

#36

always in our hearts, today and forever! Thank you for watching over our most special princesses! We love and miss you buddy!

SHEEEEEEEEE'S HEEEEEEEEEERE!!!!

2008-10-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

My beautiful niece Emma Lynn Kathleen made her debut this morning!

A proud, proud daddy! Matt would not leave her side...can ya blame him? She is absolutely beautiful, no really I am just not the biased auntie here she really is stunning...just like her momma! J/K Mattie poo!

Weighing in @ 6 lbs. 9 oz. and 19" long and lost of dark hair, and by the way she is perfect!!! And really flexible too, she had her toes up by her ears!
Mom and Dad right before Jaime went under the knife!

Not just a brother...a BEST friend!

We love our uncle!

More pics coming soon, I am headed back up to the hospital tonight!

Ok, so just a couple more!

2008-10-13T13:46:00.001-07:00

A great big thank you to everyone for being in our lives...we are so lucky and so blessed!!!

My neverending bag of goodies from my uncle Matt and Aunt Jaime and my can't wait to get here baby Emma!

Sleeping Beauty, with all the candy and and cake I ate I won't be sleeping tonight.

Wait til I get my hands on this cake!

My beautiful bracelet from Grammy!

More birthday pics of the spoiled br.., um I mean princess!

2008-10-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

Ok, so first an apology about the BLURRY pics...did I mention I LOVE my camera!

This is my Hannah Montana (now be reffered to as HM) dress up outfit from Grammy and Papa Bill!

These are my HM jammies from my Gran!

And my HM hat from Chris and Stacey...am I sensing a trend here???

Oh wait, not Hannah...my Dr. Suess game from Ashi and Sean that I LOVE, even had mommy playin it!

Oh and my wonderful (keep me occupied for hours) dress-up box from Cori and Gary and family, love it!

Cabria's 4th B-Day!

2008-10-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

I can't even begin to comprehend the fact that my littlest princess just turned 4!!! Seems like yesterday she was spitting up all over me and now look at her! Time passes way, way too quickly! I do miss her being a cuddly little spitting up baby...but boy what a young lady she is turning into!!

She loved her outfit and toys Grandpa and Lynda sent! As soon as she opened her boots she put them on and pranced around!
I don't think she has quit playing with the carriage, and sheslept with all of her barbie's and hannah montana last night.
Ok what else is in here!
Oh, I always wanted this, my Dora from Gran..more on this later!
Her teapot cake! Remember I have never, ever claimed to be a baker...obviously! Ah well, I get an A for effort right!

'Maters

2008-10-13T13:01:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure why but I have been hearing this voice lately...it is whispering in my ear ever so softly "MAKE SALSA NOW!!!!"

And here is my littlest of helpers, ya think I can talk her into cutting up the onions???

Pumpkin Patch!

2008-10-13T12:51:00.001-07:00

Find the biggest pumpkin you can! Oh wait, I have to carry it back to our school...maybe I'll look for a smaller one!

This is Trace's good friend Diego! "Diego is soooo funny, he is always cracking jokes!"

Me and my little man, oh I love him so!

Trace's cute teached came up with the idea of walking across the street to the pumpkin patch, and picking a pumpkin for a $1, what a deal! We love her, she is amazing!

Guilty Pleasure

2008-09-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

So every once and a while I'll find a t.v show that is soooo good it doesn't take long before I'm addicted. It used to be Grey's Anatomy but sorry McDreamy you've been replaced...by McCarthey. Lipstick Jungle is a saucy, sassy, laugh your pants off kind-of show, takes you out of reality for 60 minutes, well 40 cuz you can't count all those annoying commercials (thank-you T-VO). And yes it is far-fetched and does include plot lines that no reasonable person would believe, but that is why I love it. It is only the second season so it is not too late to get in on all the action. If you are in need of a synopsis up to this point, call me!

Football???

2008-09-22T07:40:00.000-07:00

Really, do ya have to play football...what about golf it is such a nice sport??? I can remember saying this to my little man last year when as he is shoving the sign up sheet in my face professing his love of the sport! I really did not want him playing football, he could get hurt, those boys are mean. He is such a great golfer, why couldn't he just stick with that. Well, I caved and he played and he LOVED it. So now we are on to year #2. What a difference a year makes, he has improved by leaps and bounds. They have been working on a "dump-pass to PAWS" (nickname from coach for his big hands) and he has been catching it and running with it and then he gets so excited he tranforms into a mexican jumping bean!!! It is so cute and I love it and I am so proud of him! But, but, but golf is such a nice sport...

Time to remember...

2008-09-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

Oh, how 7 years can pass so quickly...It is so hard to find time in our busy lives to stop and be thankful. Today I am thankful...thankful for the ablility to give honor to those people who lost their lives, those who lost their loved ones, and to those who now fight for our freedom over seas. We have so much to be thankful for, take a minute to give thanks and take a minute to remember...

Love, love, love...

2008-09-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

DIORSHOW BLACKOUT MASCARA

I know this is a silly post, but if any of you gals out there struggle like I do trying to find "GOOD" beauty products, here is a little helpful hint...This mascara is a-m-a-z-i-n-g!!! And I don't say that about too many things, and let me tell you I have tried and tested my fair share of masacaras. It is great, separates, lengthens, stays on all-day doesn't smear under or over your eyes, and comes off easy. What more could you ask for??? Well it is a little pricey $24.00, but it lasts at least 3 months, those cheapies at walmart dry up after 2 weeks. So, indulge and try it, you'll love it! Sorry, just had to share!

"Dazed and Confused"

2008-09-02T15:45:00.000-07:00

I DID IT! I bought into all the hype surrounding this 4 book trilogy and purchased the first one at B&N the other day. I was going to wait for it from the library, but there were 302 people on the hold list before me, I figured hell would have frozen over before I saw a copy of it. So with that bit of information and with the fact people (grown women mind you) have lined up at 12:00 midnight to snag a copy of her 4th installment...I thought Ohhhhh, this book is going to be GOOOOOD!

Although I have to admit I was a little embarrased taking it up to the cashier I couldn't wait to get home and curl up with a nice blanket and dive into it. Sooooooooo, I don't get it? Yes, I know that this book is really aimed at a teenage audience, but I thought there would be some sustenance to it...J/C Meyer is being compared to J.K Rowling. 3/4 of the way through the book and all she has talked about is how Edward's face is so perfect and cold and beautiful and icy, and perfectly perfect and cold as ice and blah, blah, blah!!!! I really don't see where all this hype is coming from. Here is this 17 year old girl in love with an 80 year old vampire...who doesn't age, oh but he does let himself into her room every night to watch her sleep...really, come on?!! Does this series get any better??? Is there ever a plot to arise??? Can someone please let me know, asap???

WAHHHHHH!!!!

2008-08-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...I am the world's biggest baby!!! My little Cabria is off to Pre-school! I don't understand how this could have happened so quickly...seems like yesterday I was...ok well, I'll get over it!

She was so excited, "I get to go to school like BOBO?" Yep, and here I was thinking it would be tough for her to separate from me, oh was I wrong...walked her into her classroom, took a picture and she says "are you leaving now? ok, bye mom love you, see ya later, bye!!!" as i am inching my way out of the classroom, eyes welling up with tears...mine not hers. She could have cared less. Guess I should be happy we are raising a confident, self-assured little lady??? WAHHHHHH!!!!
What a great big brother, her first morning of school, he says, "Cabria you get to be a big girl today and go to school like BOBO, are you excited?" Oh and then he ends with "don't let any of the boys kiss you or I'll have to come beat them up! "We picked him up and the first thing he says is "Hey babies, how was your day at school?" What a sweet little man...I adore that boy!!!
He is growing up so fast, and is such a kind and loving soul... New school and teacher this year, but it turns out his teacher is his old Art teacher from St. John's! "Mrs. Gist is the nicest teacher in the world , she gave us m&m's when we got to school!!!"
Handsome boy!
Are you done taking pictures of me yet, i need to get to school already!!!

Pioneer Day!

2008-08-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of our July 24th get-together at Cathy and Bill's...lots of craziness going on there! Water-fights, tether(tennis) ball, and fireworks. Oh and Michael proving that yes you can get pneumonia from getting soaking wet! No, not kidding!

Cathy and Bill, I promise Bill was not intoxicated...ok well maybe...he could possibly be high on Dr. Pepper!

I thought this was a great picture of the two bro's through a smoke-filled fireworks sulphur cloud! He-he!

Matt conducted an amazing fireworks display!

This is Bill's oldest Will and his girlfriend and Austin's girlfriend trying not to notice I am taking her picture.

This is Bill's second eldest son Austin!

Oh you know these two!

And my favorite pic of Matt and Jaime!

Grammy and her two cheese-balls!!

Grammy, Cabria and Jaime and my soon to be neice cooking very nicely in Jaime's belly!!!

Gran and that cheese-ball boy again!

I think this is what you call re-con water-fighting!

And this is what you called soaked and on his way to gettting pneumonia...no, not kidding again!

Bill and the boys he never wanted he-he J/K...Come on baby light my fire!

A little piece of HEAVEN in a drink!

2008-07-31T13:24:00.000-07:00

THIS

PLUS

EQUALS

This my friends is my newest most favorite find. It is Starbucks Frozen Lemonade and it is simply amazing...YUM! One taste and you are instantly transported to a tropical paradise, hence the picture. No, seriously try it, you won't be disappointed!!!

CRUEL AND UNUSUAL PUNISHMENT???

2008-07-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

So I started taking pilates classes at the gym no big deal right...oh no this pilates is on a wild contraption called the "REFORMER" actually I think a better name for it should be the "TERMINATOR"!!!! Wowee what a workout! It works every single solitary muscle in your body. I walk out of class fearing I may face-plant down the stairs cuz my legs are JELLO! Anyway I love it, and moral of this post is a challenge to all of you out there to step out of your comfort zone and try something NEW! Let me know what you come up with. I'LL BE BACK!!!

Miss Cabria's Dancing Debut!!!

2008-07-28T12:47:00.000-07:00

Cabria's little dance class had their first recital not too long ago. Ok well last month, but hey I am still playing catch-up right??!!

Sorry it is sideways haven't figures out how to turn them, I'm still learning!

Getting over a little stage-fright right before she has to go on.

Cutest little thang ya ever did see!!!

The last of them!

2008-07-21T14:37:00.001-07:00

So I finally found myself a moment to download the rest of the Hawaii pics. Yeah I know I am really behind considering we got back May 31st, ah well, I'll catch up someday, yeah right. Here ya go hope ya enjoy them!

I am SOOOOO cool in my new Shades!!!

Two of his favorite things...spending time with Grandpa and golfing!

Mike took this one at the Fern Grotto...so pretty!

Don't think I can hold this smile for one more second!

Catchin flies!

I love the cheese on Cabria's face!

Yep, that is Grandpa and Lynda's bird Rainbow, Cabria wasn't too sure about her at first but warmed up quickly and then wanted to take her home!

Miss Joe Cool!

And more Hawaii pics!!!

2008-07-10T17:45:00.000-07:00

Michael loved the ocean!

Cabria was happy to be in the pool!

And Gran was just happy to be with her grandkids!!!

Can you say SAND!

Waimea Canyon...breathtaking!

More Hawaii Pics

2008-07-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

On the boat to see the USS Arizona! Another WOW moment!

FOOTPRINTS!

She loved her name in the sand, and wanted it there for all eternity!

Yep, that is a MONK SEAL sunbathing behind the kids! Crazy!

The "WOW" Hawaii Trip!

2008-07-10T17:23:00.000-07:00

In May we took a family vacation to HAWAII! Wow...and that is all i have to say about that! my mom went with us and she even got into the water...another WOW please! The kids had a great time with her! Cabria kept asking "when are we going to Hawaii" and we'd say "we are in Hawaii" and her response was "but we are not swimming!" Guess she thought Hawaii was one great big swimming pool!!!

2008-06-26T14:04:00.000-07:00

Well it's a start...I am slowly finding my way through the blogging world! Bear with me!