So, as we are finding out, we were generally spoiled with Alec when he was a baby, toddler, and boy with his eating habits. Alec would eat almost anything and would enjoy almost anything. There were (and still are) the normal struggles with veggies and such, but overall he has a very good appetite and variety of foods that he will eat. Aaron is a different story.
Aaron is ME as a child. That's right, my Mom is LAUGHING at me now because I have a child JUST like me when I was little. Aaron loves milk, pizza, yogurt, tortillas, fruit, pasta, hotdogs and on a good day, chicken nuggets and floutas. That is about it...except of course for SUGAR and SWEETS...he loves those. If none of the above mentioned foods are being served at any given meal he will simply skip it and wait for the next meal to see if it is any better for him. This is the reason I started giving him pediasure...just to make sure he had some kind of vitamins in him!
Well, Last night I made chicken fajitas for dinner with refried beans. Alec, Adam, myself and Ashley enjoyed our meal immensely. Aaron had a tortilla and mandarin oranges on his plate. Well, since everyone else was having "mini burritos" guess what Aaron wanted? A orange burrito! He took his little pile of mandarin oranges and placed them in the middle of the tortilla. He was trying to roll it up but Daddy ended up stepping in and helping him. As I was watching I was wondering just how many bites into it he would loose interest and I would have to again break out the pediasure drink for him. Believe it or not, HE ATE THE ENTIRE THING!! Seriously?? He won't eat the yummy food, but hey, give him a orange burrito and he is a happy camper! Sigh...
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Christmas concerts...
I mentioned in my Thursday post of last week that the boys had their Christmas programs coming up. Alec's was Thursday night and Aaron's was Friday morning. Both went very well, but they truly showed me what totally different kids these two boys are!!
This is Alec all dressed up getting ready to go to his concert. I took him down to Valencia High School Theater where it was being held. I turned him over to the Kindergarten teachers at the side of the theater as they had requested. I told Alec that I was heading back to the car and I would pick him up when it was done. You guessed it, I lied to him. BAD MOM! I actually went in and got a seat pretty near the back of the theater. About 20 minutes later Adam came with Aaron and Ashley in tow. The show was very cute and Alec's class actually performed near the end. Alec walked right up onto stage and did everything he was suppose to do! I was SO proud! When the show was over we headed up to the front to pick Alec up. He was so happy to see us and both Adam and I wondered if he was onto us, knowing that we actually did watch him. I guessed we were safe when he said to us, "So, how was it waiting in the car? I know you did not see me but I did so good!!"
The next morning was Aaron's preschool concert. I dropped him off at school just like a regular day and then we had to be back in the church by 10:30 for the performance. I had him dressed in his nicest pair of jeans as well as a cute brown plaid shirt. I thought it would be functional for playing in before the show but still look nice for the performance. Below is a little video of part of the performance. Aaron is the end kid on the bottom row. Notice what he is wearing...
This is Alec all dressed up getting ready to go to his concert. I took him down to Valencia High School Theater where it was being held. I turned him over to the Kindergarten teachers at the side of the theater as they had requested. I told Alec that I was heading back to the car and I would pick him up when it was done. You guessed it, I lied to him. BAD MOM! I actually went in and got a seat pretty near the back of the theater. About 20 minutes later Adam came with Aaron and Ashley in tow. The show was very cute and Alec's class actually performed near the end. Alec walked right up onto stage and did everything he was suppose to do! I was SO proud! When the show was over we headed up to the front to pick Alec up. He was so happy to see us and both Adam and I wondered if he was onto us, knowing that we actually did watch him. I guessed we were safe when he said to us, "So, how was it waiting in the car? I know you did not see me but I did so good!!" The next morning was Aaron's preschool concert. I dropped him off at school just like a regular day and then we had to be back in the church by 10:30 for the performance. I had him dressed in his nicest pair of jeans as well as a cute brown plaid shirt. I thought it would be functional for playing in before the show but still look nice for the performance. Below is a little video of part of the performance. Aaron is the end kid on the bottom row. Notice what he is wearing...
SWEATPANTS!!! WHAT?? Apparently Aaron went down the slide in the playground that morning and went right into a big puddle of water that was left from the rains the day before. They had to put him in emergency clothes. Sigh. Ok, beyond what he was wearing....how stinkin' cute was he?!?! For the first two songs of the performance he stood there and sang all the words and did all the hand motions. By the third song he switched to picking his nose the entire time. By the last two songs he was bored with the nose picking and decided to turn around and watch all the rest of the children singing. He did finally rejoin the group for a round of "We wish you a Merry Christmas" at the end.
It is amazing what a difference between Alec and Aaron there is in these performances!! Even in preschool Alec was holding back and not wanting to get up on the stage and perform. If he did finally get up there he would just stand there and certainly never sing. Apparently the problem was having Mom and Dad in the audience! Aaron does not care, he went right for it! Too funny!!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Thursday 10 - All about the kids!
There have been so many times lately where I have wanted to blog something, but of course the holidays have just made us so busy this year. Here is a Thursday 10 to catch up on a few things...
1. Alec's Christmas program is tonight. He has informed us that we are not allowed to go to it. He told us that we can drop him off, go back to our car, and listen to "Do you hear what I hear?" from the CD in the car (that is the song that they are singing) and then come back in and pick him up when it is over. He does not want us to watch him performing. We told him we would do just that. Yeah, we are sneaking in the back and watching. It is in a dark theater, there is NO way he is going to see us! Little weirdo!
2. Aaron's Christmas performance is tomorrow. This is the first time he has done anything like this so it will be interesting to see how he does. I really don't anticipate any issues. He is much more comfortable in front of people than Alec ever was.
3. Alec got the chance to go to Target after school today and pick out a gift for his 8th grade buddy, Brian. I was trying to encourage him to pick out an ornament but he knew exactly what he wanted to get him. I let him lead me and we went right to the star wars section. He wanted to get him a light saber since he did not have one. Who am I to argue with a 5 year old about what he wants to get his friend for Christmas? :) Very cute.
4. Aaron learned his Pledge of Allegiance!! I am still not exactly sure where or from whom he learned it, but he recites the entire thing! It is too stinkin' cute when he says it and I MUST get it on video and download it to here. SO funny!
5. Ashley is SO scared of Santa!!! Santa and Mrs. Claus came by our neighborhood Christmas party that we hosted last Saturday to talk to the kids and give some small gifts to them. Each child got a chance to sit on santa's lap and talk to him. When it came to Ashley's turn I went to go set her up there and she freaked out! She had a death grip on me and would not let go. She usually likes older men so I think the issue was his white gloves. She freaks out over gloves...hates them. Let's see, that puts her scared tally at Santa, brooms, vacuums, hairdryers, and moving/singing dolls. Interesting!
6. When Alec was in his first year of preschool they did a little hand print at thanksgiving and on it the teachers wrote what each child was thankful for. Alec was thankful for Baby Brooklyn (she was just born the month before) Aaron has Alec's same teachers so they did the same activity with him this year. What is Aaron thankful for? Firetrucks. hehehe!!
7. Ashley STILL won't walk. Almost 15 months old and won't take a single step without holding on to something or someone. Lazy bone jones!
8. When Alec was at school on Tuesday, Aaron, Ashley and myself were at home doing laundry all day. At one point we were in Ashley's room playing on the floor. Aaron got up, went and got his little case that holds his coloring pens and his sippy cup full of milk and said to me, "Ok Mommy, I am going to work, I wuv you!!!" He disappeared into his bedroom. About 5 minutes later he came back saying, "I'm home Mommy!" I asked him what he did at work and he said, "I got bad guys and put them in the back of my police car!!" Daddy was SO proud!
9. Alec wanted a snack after school the other day and asked if he could make it himself. I said sure, as long as it was something healthy, and he headed to the kitchen. I of course followed and hid around the corner to watch what he would do. He went to the refrigerator, opened it, stared into it for a while and then finally took out some leftover pasta from the night before. He went over to where the plates are in the cupboard, crawled up onto the counter and got a plate down. He then got a fork and proceeded to put some of the pasta on the plate from the tupperware. He closed the container and put it back in the fridge. He then took his plate and went over to the microwave, crawled up on the counter again and put his plate in the microwave (it is quite high so it was difficult for him to reach.) He stared at the microwave for a minute and then punched in 5 minutes and pushed start. I went in and stopped the microwave at 2 minutes but other than me doing that, he did the entire thing completely on his own!! What a little chef I have on my hands!!
10. What I want for Christmas...
Alec - Millennium Falcon and toys for the kids whose houses burned down.
Aaron - An airplane.
Ashley - She would be happy with just a unending bottle full of milk! :) Easy to please!
1. Alec's Christmas program is tonight. He has informed us that we are not allowed to go to it. He told us that we can drop him off, go back to our car, and listen to "Do you hear what I hear?" from the CD in the car (that is the song that they are singing) and then come back in and pick him up when it is over. He does not want us to watch him performing. We told him we would do just that. Yeah, we are sneaking in the back and watching. It is in a dark theater, there is NO way he is going to see us! Little weirdo!
2. Aaron's Christmas performance is tomorrow. This is the first time he has done anything like this so it will be interesting to see how he does. I really don't anticipate any issues. He is much more comfortable in front of people than Alec ever was.
3. Alec got the chance to go to Target after school today and pick out a gift for his 8th grade buddy, Brian. I was trying to encourage him to pick out an ornament but he knew exactly what he wanted to get him. I let him lead me and we went right to the star wars section. He wanted to get him a light saber since he did not have one. Who am I to argue with a 5 year old about what he wants to get his friend for Christmas? :) Very cute.
4. Aaron learned his Pledge of Allegiance!! I am still not exactly sure where or from whom he learned it, but he recites the entire thing! It is too stinkin' cute when he says it and I MUST get it on video and download it to here. SO funny!
5. Ashley is SO scared of Santa!!! Santa and Mrs. Claus came by our neighborhood Christmas party that we hosted last Saturday to talk to the kids and give some small gifts to them. Each child got a chance to sit on santa's lap and talk to him. When it came to Ashley's turn I went to go set her up there and she freaked out! She had a death grip on me and would not let go. She usually likes older men so I think the issue was his white gloves. She freaks out over gloves...hates them. Let's see, that puts her scared tally at Santa, brooms, vacuums, hairdryers, and moving/singing dolls. Interesting!
6. When Alec was in his first year of preschool they did a little hand print at thanksgiving and on it the teachers wrote what each child was thankful for. Alec was thankful for Baby Brooklyn (she was just born the month before) Aaron has Alec's same teachers so they did the same activity with him this year. What is Aaron thankful for? Firetrucks. hehehe!!
7. Ashley STILL won't walk. Almost 15 months old and won't take a single step without holding on to something or someone. Lazy bone jones!
8. When Alec was at school on Tuesday, Aaron, Ashley and myself were at home doing laundry all day. At one point we were in Ashley's room playing on the floor. Aaron got up, went and got his little case that holds his coloring pens and his sippy cup full of milk and said to me, "Ok Mommy, I am going to work, I wuv you!!!" He disappeared into his bedroom. About 5 minutes later he came back saying, "I'm home Mommy!" I asked him what he did at work and he said, "I got bad guys and put them in the back of my police car!!" Daddy was SO proud!
9. Alec wanted a snack after school the other day and asked if he could make it himself. I said sure, as long as it was something healthy, and he headed to the kitchen. I of course followed and hid around the corner to watch what he would do. He went to the refrigerator, opened it, stared into it for a while and then finally took out some leftover pasta from the night before. He went over to where the plates are in the cupboard, crawled up onto the counter and got a plate down. He then got a fork and proceeded to put some of the pasta on the plate from the tupperware. He closed the container and put it back in the fridge. He then took his plate and went over to the microwave, crawled up on the counter again and put his plate in the microwave (it is quite high so it was difficult for him to reach.) He stared at the microwave for a minute and then punched in 5 minutes and pushed start. I went in and stopped the microwave at 2 minutes but other than me doing that, he did the entire thing completely on his own!! What a little chef I have on my hands!!
10. What I want for Christmas...
Alec - Millennium Falcon and toys for the kids whose houses burned down.
Aaron - An airplane.
Ashley - She would be happy with just a unending bottle full of milk! :) Easy to please!
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Happy Family
Ok, so I am spoiling the surprise for anyone on here who will be getting a Christmas card from us, but here is our family picture we took last weekend with Sipper Photography. There are a TON more, but since the files are so big I can only upload one at a time on a post. I still CAN'T believe that we got all three children looking at the camera and smiling! Amazing!! I love my family!!!Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Shhhh....
Ok, I am going to share this with you, but you CAN'T tell Alec...
I got a call from the secretary at St. Joseph School yesterday. As every mom does, I am sure, my heart sank. I immediately thought, "Is Alec ok? Did he throw up? What did he do? He LOVES school! OMG!!" Immediately after those thoughts ran thru my mind the secretary said, "First of all, everything is fine with Alec, but we wanted to call you and let you know that he has been chosen as student of the month for December! We would like to invite you to a special assembly on Friday where Mrs. Knapp will introduce him, say a few things about him and give him his award. This is a surprise, so don't let him know about it!"
YEA!!! I am SO excited for him!! I am going to have to figure out a way to sneak in the back of the hall so that he does not see me otherwise we will have a repeat of the Thanksgiving Prayer Service fiasco. Oh, did not blog about that one? Must do that. Pretty darn funny! Anyway, just wanted to brag quickly on here about my WONDERFUL son and how PROUD I am of him and his accomplishments in kindergarten. Do I get one of those obnoxious stickers for the bumper of my car? Let's hope not cause I would HAVE to put it on. ;)
I got a call from the secretary at St. Joseph School yesterday. As every mom does, I am sure, my heart sank. I immediately thought, "Is Alec ok? Did he throw up? What did he do? He LOVES school! OMG!!" Immediately after those thoughts ran thru my mind the secretary said, "First of all, everything is fine with Alec, but we wanted to call you and let you know that he has been chosen as student of the month for December! We would like to invite you to a special assembly on Friday where Mrs. Knapp will introduce him, say a few things about him and give him his award. This is a surprise, so don't let him know about it!"
YEA!!! I am SO excited for him!! I am going to have to figure out a way to sneak in the back of the hall so that he does not see me otherwise we will have a repeat of the Thanksgiving Prayer Service fiasco. Oh, did not blog about that one? Must do that. Pretty darn funny! Anyway, just wanted to brag quickly on here about my WONDERFUL son and how PROUD I am of him and his accomplishments in kindergarten. Do I get one of those obnoxious stickers for the bumper of my car? Let's hope not cause I would HAVE to put it on. ;)
Monday, November 24, 2008
Wow...
Remember all that talk about whether or not we should put Alec into kindergarten? Remember how his teachers just thought he needed some extra time? Remember how much we agonized and prayed over the decision?
WE SO MADE THE RIGHT DECISION!!
Alec started reading today. It clicked in his brain. I don't know how the light turned on, but it did, and he is reading! I know it is normal development for a child of his age, but I am in absolutely heaven right now with how PROUD I am of him!!!
Alec has been progressively practicing his letter sounds and trying to sound out words for weeks now. He would see a word and say all of the letter sounds but was unable to put the sounds together to understand the word. He got it today. We have the Hooked on Phonics system that we have been using loosely for a while. I have brought out the books from it in the past but Alec was just not that interested or he would get frustrated quickly. I decided to try one tonight with him and he read it like an old pro! I went and got the next two books and he read those as well!! CRAZY!!!
SO proud of you Al!!!
WE SO MADE THE RIGHT DECISION!!
Alec started reading today. It clicked in his brain. I don't know how the light turned on, but it did, and he is reading! I know it is normal development for a child of his age, but I am in absolutely heaven right now with how PROUD I am of him!!!
Alec has been progressively practicing his letter sounds and trying to sound out words for weeks now. He would see a word and say all of the letter sounds but was unable to put the sounds together to understand the word. He got it today. We have the Hooked on Phonics system that we have been using loosely for a while. I have brought out the books from it in the past but Alec was just not that interested or he would get frustrated quickly. I decided to try one tonight with him and he read it like an old pro! I went and got the next two books and he read those as well!! CRAZY!!!
SO proud of you Al!!!
Photo - Tag
My friend Liz from church tagged me last week! I am suppose to look in my 6th photo album, at the 6th picture on my computer...so here it is! It is from December of 2003. Alec is just 5 months old!! SO CUTE!!I have to pass it on, so I tag the following people...
1. Michelle - She has a private blog.
2. Giselle - http://giselles2.blogspot.com/
3. Ashley - especially since I am sure she is bored with her hubby being gone right now http://mr-mrs-kawamura.blogspot.com/
4. Laurie - LOVE the new blog girl!! http://texaslaurie.blogspot.com/
Have fun!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Some October moments...
I always find it interesting how in the busiest times in my life when I have the most going on, is when I have the most to blog about. Of course, when it is so busy like that I don't have time to blog. Catch 22!! Well, here are some pictures and moments from October that I did not want to let pass by...
My sweet little Ashley has turned into a TODDLER!! When did that happen?? She is not quite walking yet but finally started cruising and even standing up randomly in the middle of the floor. She LOVES getting into the pantry and all the drawers in the kitchen. Her favorite things to play with is the Top Ramen packages and the plastic sandwich bags. I have an entire cupboard full of tupperware that she is welcome to play with, but apparently it is just not as exciting for her. Go figure!
In the middle of October Alec had a 4 day weekend to celebrate Columbus Day. Adam had been trying to take the boys on a camping trip since this summer but it had not happened yet. Because of the long weekend Adam finally decided to take the boys. Originally Ashley and I were suppose to go on the trip as well, but at the last minute I decided that a dirt camping spot plus a toddler who crawls and puts EVERYTHING in her mouth would not go well together. The boys had a BLAST with Daddy and still have not stopped talking about it! They can't wait to go again...maybe Mommy and Ashley will venture with them next time!
Daddy and Aaron camping. The spot they had found was on Palomar mountain in San Diego. Ashley and I took the train down to San Diego on Saturday morning and met up with Brian, Carrie, and Kasey for the day. That night Adam and the boys came the rest of the way down from camping and joined us. We had a wonderful visit with the Day family before heading home on Sunday night. What an adventurous weekend!!
Ashley is at that stage where every day starting at 5:00 p.m., just as I am starting to make dinner (I call it the witching hour) Ashley starts whining and crying. She wants to be held. It is next to impossible to hold a 13 month old child while making dinner so unfortunately most nights she just follows me around the kitchen as I cook fully crying her eyes out. Not so fun for anyone involved! In an attempt to entertain Ashley during this time period I put her inside a delivery box we had received with a couple of her dolls. Alec was kind enough to push the "choo choo" back and forth on the carpet in the living room. This entertained Ashley so much and kept her out of my hair while making dinner. THANK YOU ALEC for being such a wonderful helper! I really don't know what I would do without you!!
Adam and I's 8 year wedding anniversary was this October. Adam was up in Sacramento for training the week before it and then at the end of the week I flew up to meet him. We kept his rental car and drove up to Lake Tahoe for the weekend. When planning the trip we were so excited to be able to go hiking, mountain bike riding, and possibly horse back riding. Lots of fun outdoor stuff. Well, all of those plans were brought to a dead stop when SNOW started falling while we were driving to the resort! We were SO not prepared for this!!
My sweet little Ashley has turned into a TODDLER!! When did that happen?? She is not quite walking yet but finally started cruising and even standing up randomly in the middle of the floor. She LOVES getting into the pantry and all the drawers in the kitchen. Her favorite things to play with is the Top Ramen packages and the plastic sandwich bags. I have an entire cupboard full of tupperware that she is welcome to play with, but apparently it is just not as exciting for her. Go figure! 
In the middle of October Alec had a 4 day weekend to celebrate Columbus Day. Adam had been trying to take the boys on a camping trip since this summer but it had not happened yet. Because of the long weekend Adam finally decided to take the boys. Originally Ashley and I were suppose to go on the trip as well, but at the last minute I decided that a dirt camping spot plus a toddler who crawls and puts EVERYTHING in her mouth would not go well together. The boys had a BLAST with Daddy and still have not stopped talking about it! They can't wait to go again...maybe Mommy and Ashley will venture with them next time!
Daddy and Aaron camping. The spot they had found was on Palomar mountain in San Diego. Ashley and I took the train down to San Diego on Saturday morning and met up with Brian, Carrie, and Kasey for the day. That night Adam and the boys came the rest of the way down from camping and joined us. We had a wonderful visit with the Day family before heading home on Sunday night. What an adventurous weekend!!
Ashley is at that stage where every day starting at 5:00 p.m., just as I am starting to make dinner (I call it the witching hour) Ashley starts whining and crying. She wants to be held. It is next to impossible to hold a 13 month old child while making dinner so unfortunately most nights she just follows me around the kitchen as I cook fully crying her eyes out. Not so fun for anyone involved! In an attempt to entertain Ashley during this time period I put her inside a delivery box we had received with a couple of her dolls. Alec was kind enough to push the "choo choo" back and forth on the carpet in the living room. This entertained Ashley so much and kept her out of my hair while making dinner. THANK YOU ALEC for being such a wonderful helper! I really don't know what I would do without you!!
Adam and I's 8 year wedding anniversary was this October. Adam was up in Sacramento for training the week before it and then at the end of the week I flew up to meet him. We kept his rental car and drove up to Lake Tahoe for the weekend. When planning the trip we were so excited to be able to go hiking, mountain bike riding, and possibly horse back riding. Lots of fun outdoor stuff. Well, all of those plans were brought to a dead stop when SNOW started falling while we were driving to the resort! We were SO not prepared for this!! The resort we stayed at was called The Resort at Squaw Valley. It was absolutely beautiful and our room not only had a fully stocked kitchenette but also a dining room table and fireplace. Let's just say we did not leave the room very much! We did manage to find some outlets to shop at one day and head down to south Tahoe the next day after church to do some gambling but other than that we mostly sat in our room, snuggled, and read. Quite the relaxing trip!
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Another baby? Alec's answer...
So we were sitting around the dinner table yesterday having dinner and chatting. Ashley was doing something funny, as she almost always is at dinner, and Adam said to me, "Look, you don't have a baby anymore! Time for another one!!" I just laughed (Adam would love two more and I say we are DONE!) Adam looked at Alec and asked, "Alec, do you want another baby in the house?" Alec just looked at Daddy and wagged his finger back and forth with a stern look on his face as if to say, "No, no!" This of course made us laugh. Adam then said to Alec, "But there is one empty chair at the table! Don't we need to fill it?" Alec responded, "Dad! That chair is for Jesus!!" There we go Adam, it is decided! hahaha!
Friday, November 07, 2008
What is most important?
Today was Lisa's funeral. I knew it was not going to be easy. What funeral where a young mom leaves 5 children and a loving family behind would be easy? I have to say though, it was BEAUTIFUL. Lisa's sisters Marie and Theresa worked tirelessly over the past 5 days making sure that Lisa's life was celebrated properly. There were balloons from Disneyland where Lisa worked for 10 years and loved visiting with her kids, there was a beautiful eulogy that so appropriately and eloquently summarized Lisa's life, and most importantly there were a TON of memories shared. I was truly moved by the Mass and have not had that strong of a reaction to the Eucharist in quite a long time. Maybe it was the fact that Lisa had such a respect and dedication to the Eucharist as well and it was reflected thru her? I think so.
As Marie was reading her eulogy she was listing many of the things that Lisa had done in her life. She traveled thru Europe for months, she went to the beach at any time she could, she loved poetry, theater, and art, and experienced the arts in any way possible at any moment she could. What I find especially remarkable is that most of these things that she did, she shared with her children. She was always taking them to Disneyland, to the beach, or on some other adventure all the while taking a million photographs. I was listening to this in church today wondering why I don't do this as much with my own children.
After the funeral everyone headed to the cemetery for the burial. Amy, Chris and I skipped the burial and went to the Spiers house to set up for the gathering afterwards. We were getting ready to set out all the food and we started opening cupboards looking for serving bowls, platters, serving spoons, etc. What we found instead was mismatched plates and cups. Nothing that looked like it cost more than a few dollars each. I know that Lisa sacrificed to stay at home with her children, especially with a husband that was not always there for them, but it really hit me at that moment just what kind of a mom Lisa was. She was the mom that would rather spend her money making memories and having fun with her children instead of filling her kitchen with all the latest gadgets and serving pieces.
What is my kitchen filled with? The latest gadgets and serving pieces. I think I need to take a lesson from my dear cousin. Thank you Lisa for teaching me something very important thru your example. We will miss you!
As Marie was reading her eulogy she was listing many of the things that Lisa had done in her life. She traveled thru Europe for months, she went to the beach at any time she could, she loved poetry, theater, and art, and experienced the arts in any way possible at any moment she could. What I find especially remarkable is that most of these things that she did, she shared with her children. She was always taking them to Disneyland, to the beach, or on some other adventure all the while taking a million photographs. I was listening to this in church today wondering why I don't do this as much with my own children.
After the funeral everyone headed to the cemetery for the burial. Amy, Chris and I skipped the burial and went to the Spiers house to set up for the gathering afterwards. We were getting ready to set out all the food and we started opening cupboards looking for serving bowls, platters, serving spoons, etc. What we found instead was mismatched plates and cups. Nothing that looked like it cost more than a few dollars each. I know that Lisa sacrificed to stay at home with her children, especially with a husband that was not always there for them, but it really hit me at that moment just what kind of a mom Lisa was. She was the mom that would rather spend her money making memories and having fun with her children instead of filling her kitchen with all the latest gadgets and serving pieces.
What is my kitchen filled with? The latest gadgets and serving pieces. I think I need to take a lesson from my dear cousin. Thank you Lisa for teaching me something very important thru your example. We will miss you!
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Happy Hawleyween!!
One of my favorite holidays of the year is Halloween. I love the fall weather. I love making Halloween costumes. I love trick or treating. Well, I got one out of the three this year!! It was SO hot when we were walking around trick or treating that Alec was sweating in his costume. There goes the fall weather! Then, with things being so busy traveling back to New York and the responsibilities that came with being a room mom in Alec's class this year I did not get an opportunity to make my kids costumes this year (can I hear a collective "GASP" in shock?) I know, I know. I purchased Ashley's costume in September knowing full well that I did not have the proper sewing machine to make a stretch bodice for her Tinker Bell costume. I was, however, going to make Alec's Captain Hook and Aaron's Peter Pan. The week that I had scheduled to make them was the week we were in New York. I decided to head to the Disney Store and just buy them. Good plan and took A LOT of the pressure off me...plus, by the time I decided this the costumes were 1/2 price, WOO HOO!!
We had a blast on Halloween night! As soon as we got home from school Alec and Aaron "helped" me carve our pumpkins. In actuality I carved with my big professional carving tools while they instructed me where to cut. We then made some homemade pizza just in time for Daddy to come home from work. After dinner we got suited up to go trick or treating!
Never-never land here we come!! 
Our family getting ready to head out to find some yummy candy! If Mommy had her act together a little more then Adam was going to be John and I was going to be Wendy. Oh well, the important ones got their costumes! 
Grammie and Papa with the munchkins. We loved that they were able to join us trick or treating this year! They were headed off to another party after they were done, hence my mom's black dress. Also, you can see our neighbors house in the background. They did a mini-haunted house with their front porch. Of course, my kids would not go near it...but then again, neither would I!
Grandpa and Grandma getting ready to trick or treat with us also!
Allie, Jason, Brooklyn, Melinda, Jason and Phoenix also joined us for trick or treating. Brooklyn was dressed as Dorothy and Phoenix was Tigger (not in this picture). We had a big group going around and it was so much fun!! The kids really got into it. By the end of the night their bags were so full of candy that Aaron could not carry his anymore!! What a wonderful night it was!
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Alec's School Conference
Alec has had 1/2 days at school Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of this week due to school wide school conferences. Alec's was scheduled for 2:20 yesterday. At St. Joseph they want the children to be at the conference with the parents as to be involved with what is going on. Alec and I headed over and met Adam before going in. I have to say, I was a bit nervous going in. I did not think that there would be any problems, but it is always weird for me to sit there and have another person critique my child, especially on actions that happen when I am not there! Well, as we were coming up to the classroom Mrs. Knapp saw us an said, "Oh good, Alec! An easy one!!" A good way to start a conference in my mind and absolutely calmed me a bit.
We went into the classroom and the three of us sat across the little table from Mrs. Knapp (NOT easy for a 6 foot tall person!). She had examples of Alec's work from the beginning of school and then examples of where he is now. WOW what a difference in two short months!! His writing has improved tremendously and his drawing and coloring skills are so much better! Mrs. Knapp said that Alec is an excellent listener, he follows directions very well and is a self starter. She said that at the beginning of the school year he was quite hesitant about doing anything without asking a question about it, but now he is able to jump right in and do something. Mrs. Knapp made specific mention that he is doing SO well and that she could not imagine us having waited a year to put him in kindergarten. What a wonderful report!!!
Mrs. Knapp also gave us a sheet of paper with specific details of the conference for us all to sign (even Alec). It listed the following...
Strengths:
1. Very helpful in and out of classroom.
2. Makes good choices and develops relationships with all students.
3. Great improvement in area of confidence and independent work.
Needs:
1. Blending sounds into simple words and readying decodable books.
2. Writing numbers 1-20
We could not be more pleased with both St. Joseph School and Alec's teachers, Mrs. Knapp and Mrs. Rivers. The amount of spirituality and knowledge of his faith that Alec has already retained has made me a true believer of Catholic school!!
We are SO proud of you Alec!!
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Saying more goodbyes
Part of the mystery of life is trying to figure out our purpose here on earth as well as God's plan for us. With all of the events that have happened in the past few weeks, these thoughts have been on the forefront of my mind.
Yesterday morning my cousin Lisa passed away. Lisa was 38 years old and had 5 children ranging in ages from 16 to 3 years old. Leah, the youngest, just had her third birthday a few weeks ago. Lisa found out that she had cancer when she had a large tumor removed from her abdomen just this last March...now she is gone...it happened that quickly. Now there are 5 heartbroken children and a very broken family left here on earth without her. I have to say, I don't understand. I accept it because I know it was God's will, but I don't understand. There has to be a bigger plan, but what could that POSSIBLY be?
Lisa was a VERY smart woman who could talk to anyone about anything. She was incredibly dedicated to her family, both immediate and people further down the bloodline. Lisa enjoyed good jokes and the noise level that many children brought. She was a devout Catholic who celebrated her faith and lived it in her daily life. Lisa was the social coordinator, always trying to get cousins and family together to hang out. Even in her final days while she was surrounded by her family, Lisa was able to bask in the attention and stories that all her family brought to her.
This next week will be such a trying time for Lisa's family, preparing for her funeral and burial. Please keep them in your prayers.
We will miss you Lisa.
Yesterday morning my cousin Lisa passed away. Lisa was 38 years old and had 5 children ranging in ages from 16 to 3 years old. Leah, the youngest, just had her third birthday a few weeks ago. Lisa found out that she had cancer when she had a large tumor removed from her abdomen just this last March...now she is gone...it happened that quickly. Now there are 5 heartbroken children and a very broken family left here on earth without her. I have to say, I don't understand. I accept it because I know it was God's will, but I don't understand. There has to be a bigger plan, but what could that POSSIBLY be?
Lisa was a VERY smart woman who could talk to anyone about anything. She was incredibly dedicated to her family, both immediate and people further down the bloodline. Lisa enjoyed good jokes and the noise level that many children brought. She was a devout Catholic who celebrated her faith and lived it in her daily life. Lisa was the social coordinator, always trying to get cousins and family together to hang out. Even in her final days while she was surrounded by her family, Lisa was able to bask in the attention and stories that all her family brought to her.
This next week will be such a trying time for Lisa's family, preparing for her funeral and burial. Please keep them in your prayers.
We will miss you Lisa.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
We love you Pop-pop!
Aaron and Pop-pop in July 2007Sad news in the Hawley house. Adam's paternal Granfather, Edward Hawley, passed away this morning. Pop-pop was 90 years old and lived a very blessed life. He was a very spiritual man and his dedication to his Catholic faith was an inspiration to all. Up until just a few years ago Pop-pop could be found on the basketball court with his grandson Brian and son Dan shooting some hoops. He could also be found during the week at St. Francis volunteering as an Alter Server at daily masses and funerals. He dearly loved his wife of 60 years, Audrey, as well as his sons Steve (my father in law) and Dan and their wives Jeannie (my mother in law) and Mary. Throughout their childhood Dan and Mary's sons Chris and Brian were lucky enough to have Pop-pop as part of their daily lives. Nana and Pop-pop lived pretty close by in New Jersey and were able to spend much time with them.
Although Adam was out in California he had a very special relationship with Pop-pop as well. Adam always enjoyed spending vacations back in New York with all is family. Adam and his father were able to go to New York just this last August and celebrate Pop-pop's 90th birthday with him. I know that they treasured every moment they had with him on that trip.
Pop-pop absolutely googled over his Great-grandchildren, Alec, Aaron and Ashley. The last time we were all out was in July of 2007. Alec and Aaron were running around like crazy kids and Nana and Pop-pop were enjoying every moment of it. Pop-pop's eyes just lit up when whenever he saw them. I was pregnant with Ashley at the time so technically she was able to meet him as well. :)
My grandfathers passed away when I was younger so Pop-pop really took on the roll of grandfather with me. Although I did not get to see him as often as we would wish, the time we did spend together was incredibly meaningful to me. Pop-pop was always complimenting me on what a sweet girl I was and how glad he was that Adam and I found eachother. I thank the Lord every day that He gave me Adam in my life and that Adam came with such a loving family that I could count as my own.
We will miss you Pop-pop!
Adam and Pop-pop in 1978
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Thursday 10
Well, what do ya know? It is Thursday and I am posting!! Wonders will never cease!! Ok, it is actually that I am procrastinating all the other stuff I have to do right now. Oh well, whatever gets me to blog!!
1. Adam has been out of town in Sacramento all this week at training and I am leaving at 8:00 tonight to fly up and join him! Tomorrow we will be driving to Tahoe to spend the weekend and then we fly home on Monday night. All of this WITHOUT kids!! YIKES!! I miss them already!
2. Alec comes up to me on Sunday and says to me, "Mommy, do you know what disingenuous is?" I say that no, I don't. He says, "It means a tree where the leaves fall to the ground. When they stay up in the tree they are a evergreen!" OMG. I LOVE all he is learning in kindergarten!
3. Speaking of kindergarten, homework kicked in last week. Each week they get a homework packet with something for them to do each night. Alec has been so excited to do it. We will see how long that excitement lasts!
4. Every day that Aaron comes home from preschool I ask him what he talked about that day. He ALWAYS responds, "dinosaurs and fire trucks." I am going to have to talk to the teachers and see if that is even remotely true!!
5. I am TOTALLY distraught that Jerell was kicked off of Project Runway last night and Kinnley made it to Bryant Park. Kinnley's dress was MUCH better but I just can't stand her as a person OR most of her designs. I am DYING to see what happens next week!!
6. Sad one...a couple of weeks ago Carol passed away. She was a wonderful woman who fought a brave fight. Many prayers go out to her husband Brad and their son Brady. I can not even imagine.
7. Since we are on the topic of prayers, please keep Jim Morin in your prayers! He received a double lung transplant a few weeks ago. He has had set back after set back in his recovery. Jim is an amazing man who has SO much more to give to this earth. Please pray for a full recovery as well as strength for his wife Pat.
8. CONGRATULATIONS to Allie, Jason and Brooklyn on their growing family!! Allie found out last week that she is expecting a new little one in June! I can't wait to be an Auntie again!!!
9. Congratulations also to Big Ashley and Matt who were married on September 20th. We wish you the best in your life together!!
10. We had a BLAST at Ashley's 1st birthday party last week and I promise I will post about it soon...but definitely not until AFTER Tahoe!!
Alright, I gotta go pack!!
1. Adam has been out of town in Sacramento all this week at training and I am leaving at 8:00 tonight to fly up and join him! Tomorrow we will be driving to Tahoe to spend the weekend and then we fly home on Monday night. All of this WITHOUT kids!! YIKES!! I miss them already!
2. Alec comes up to me on Sunday and says to me, "Mommy, do you know what disingenuous is?" I say that no, I don't. He says, "It means a tree where the leaves fall to the ground. When they stay up in the tree they are a evergreen!" OMG. I LOVE all he is learning in kindergarten!
3. Speaking of kindergarten, homework kicked in last week. Each week they get a homework packet with something for them to do each night. Alec has been so excited to do it. We will see how long that excitement lasts!
4. Every day that Aaron comes home from preschool I ask him what he talked about that day. He ALWAYS responds, "dinosaurs and fire trucks." I am going to have to talk to the teachers and see if that is even remotely true!!
5. I am TOTALLY distraught that Jerell was kicked off of Project Runway last night and Kinnley made it to Bryant Park. Kinnley's dress was MUCH better but I just can't stand her as a person OR most of her designs. I am DYING to see what happens next week!!
6. Sad one...a couple of weeks ago Carol passed away. She was a wonderful woman who fought a brave fight. Many prayers go out to her husband Brad and their son Brady. I can not even imagine.
7. Since we are on the topic of prayers, please keep Jim Morin in your prayers! He received a double lung transplant a few weeks ago. He has had set back after set back in his recovery. Jim is an amazing man who has SO much more to give to this earth. Please pray for a full recovery as well as strength for his wife Pat.
8. CONGRATULATIONS to Allie, Jason and Brooklyn on their growing family!! Allie found out last week that she is expecting a new little one in June! I can't wait to be an Auntie again!!!
9. Congratulations also to Big Ashley and Matt who were married on September 20th. We wish you the best in your life together!!
10. We had a BLAST at Ashley's 1st birthday party last week and I promise I will post about it soon...but definitely not until AFTER Tahoe!!
Alright, I gotta go pack!!
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Happy 1st Birthday Ashley!
Boy is it hard to even imagine that it has been one whole year since Ashley was born! I know this is so cliche to say, but it has gone SO fast! It seems like just yesterday that I was balling my eyes out by the overwhelming feeling of joy at having given birth to a beautiful daughter. 12 short months later I am still filled with that joy along with so many other feelings, the most being contentment, gut wrenching love, and excitement for what the future holds.
Contentment comes in the form of absolutely loving my family and not wanting a thing to change. After having the boys I felt happy, but still felt that something was missing. Although I had those feelings, I just could not wrap my mind around having another child. I wanted a girl so badly that I could not see straight. I did not want to feel at all disappointed if we tried for another and it was a boy. I know this sounds shallow, don't get me wrong, I LOVE my boys with a fierce passion, but I wanted a girl. When we found out we were pregnant with number 3 I really tried not to get my hopes up. I will never forget that feeling disbelief and joy when the ultrasound tech said that it was a girl. NOW my family would be complete! As much as I would love to go thru it all again, Adam and I both agree that our family feels right just the way it is. Ashley, my gift from God, has completed our already wonderful family.
The gut-wrenching love that I feel for Adam and all three of my kids is something that I longed for all my life. I always knew that I wanted to be a mother and a wife. I knew that I would love my husband and kids, but I never knew just how passionately I would feel that love. All of this love comes in so many different forms. Just watching my kids all play together so nicely (for the two seconds each day that happens), watching them achieve milestones, or even sneaking in at night to watch them sleep. One of my favorite things to do...and I have done this with all of my kids when they were babies...is at least once a week I will sneak into Ashley's room, pick her up about a 1/2 hour before I am going to go to bed and bring her downstairs with me. She snuggles her head into my neck the entire way downstairs and then perks up while we quietly "chat", giggle and smile together on the couch. After about 10 minutes I take her back upstairs and put her back in her crib. She lays right back down, thumb goes back in the mouth, snuggles up to her taggie blanket and falls back asleep. I LOVE those nights. Again, GUT WRENCHING LOVE. No other way to describe it.
My excitement for what the future holds is based on getting to see just what kind of a little lady Ashley turns into. Will she be a girlie girl? If mommy has her way, then yes! Will she want to keep up with her big brothers and become a tom boy? It's ok if she does. When I picture my dream future with Ashley it is filled with baking Christmas cookies together (with Alec also helping and Aaron eating of course), taking her to tap class and sitting in a recital hall watching hours of other people's children dance just to see mine on the stage for 2 minutes. It will hopefully be finding the balance between being a guide for Ashley thru her teenage years so that she does not fall into bad habits, but also maintaining a close relationship with her so that she can come to me as a confidant when needed. I look forward to the day when I look down the church aisle and see Adam leading his daughter down it, and even watching her become a Mom.
Thank you Ashley for being my sweet little daughter!
I love your scrunchy nose smiles.
I love that your face lights up any time that your brothers enter the room.
I love that you are a mommy's girl.
I love that you growl at me when you are in a silly mood.
I love how your eyes light up when someone is really entertaining you.
I love when you snuggle with your Daddy.
I love that you wake up with a smile every single morning.
I love YOU!!
Contentment comes in the form of absolutely loving my family and not wanting a thing to change. After having the boys I felt happy, but still felt that something was missing. Although I had those feelings, I just could not wrap my mind around having another child. I wanted a girl so badly that I could not see straight. I did not want to feel at all disappointed if we tried for another and it was a boy. I know this sounds shallow, don't get me wrong, I LOVE my boys with a fierce passion, but I wanted a girl. When we found out we were pregnant with number 3 I really tried not to get my hopes up. I will never forget that feeling disbelief and joy when the ultrasound tech said that it was a girl. NOW my family would be complete! As much as I would love to go thru it all again, Adam and I both agree that our family feels right just the way it is. Ashley, my gift from God, has completed our already wonderful family.
The gut-wrenching love that I feel for Adam and all three of my kids is something that I longed for all my life. I always knew that I wanted to be a mother and a wife. I knew that I would love my husband and kids, but I never knew just how passionately I would feel that love. All of this love comes in so many different forms. Just watching my kids all play together so nicely (for the two seconds each day that happens), watching them achieve milestones, or even sneaking in at night to watch them sleep. One of my favorite things to do...and I have done this with all of my kids when they were babies...is at least once a week I will sneak into Ashley's room, pick her up about a 1/2 hour before I am going to go to bed and bring her downstairs with me. She snuggles her head into my neck the entire way downstairs and then perks up while we quietly "chat", giggle and smile together on the couch. After about 10 minutes I take her back upstairs and put her back in her crib. She lays right back down, thumb goes back in the mouth, snuggles up to her taggie blanket and falls back asleep. I LOVE those nights. Again, GUT WRENCHING LOVE. No other way to describe it.
My excitement for what the future holds is based on getting to see just what kind of a little lady Ashley turns into. Will she be a girlie girl? If mommy has her way, then yes! Will she want to keep up with her big brothers and become a tom boy? It's ok if she does. When I picture my dream future with Ashley it is filled with baking Christmas cookies together (with Alec also helping and Aaron eating of course), taking her to tap class and sitting in a recital hall watching hours of other people's children dance just to see mine on the stage for 2 minutes. It will hopefully be finding the balance between being a guide for Ashley thru her teenage years so that she does not fall into bad habits, but also maintaining a close relationship with her so that she can come to me as a confidant when needed. I look forward to the day when I look down the church aisle and see Adam leading his daughter down it, and even watching her become a Mom.
Thank you Ashley for being my sweet little daughter!
I love your scrunchy nose smiles.
I love that your face lights up any time that your brothers enter the room.
I love that you are a mommy's girl.
I love that you growl at me when you are in a silly mood.
I love how your eyes light up when someone is really entertaining you.
I love when you snuggle with your Daddy.
I love that you wake up with a smile every single morning.
I love YOU!!
My sweetheart the morning of her 1st birthday. Sorry!! I tried my best, but it was just a BAD hair morning!!
Friday, September 19, 2008
Thursday Ten...on Friday
Ok, so yesterday's ten did not happen, but at least I am doing it today, right? Here we go!!
1. My sisters, my mom and I went to go see Wicked in LA on Wednesday night, courtesy of my Dad! I had seen the show before, but it was the first time for Amy, Allie and my Mom. They totally enjoyed as did I. It is so nice to be able to spend girl time with my lovely sisters and Mom. They mean the world to me. Thanks SO much Daddy for getting us the tickets!!
2. Aaron started preschool yesterday! I have pictures but have not downloaded them yet. Will do that later and post. He did great and was very happy the entire time. As we walked up he just walked right into the room and started playing. No tears...not even by mommy! He is in GREAT hands there! Today he came out after a few minutes (I was still standing there watching) and asked for another hug and a kiss. SO SWEET!!
3. Ashley's birthday party is 1 week away and I really need to get moving on things!! I reserved the bounce house but have yet to figure out food. I need to call a few places and price out sandwiches. I also have to make the tutu's for the party and put together the favors as well as make a sign...alright, I gotta get moving on it!!!
4. Alec had jean day and crazy hair day at school. He was SO excited to do his own hair this morning. When he finally left for school it had three different products in it and it was STIFF as a board. I totally forgot to get a picture of him though...BAD mom! I will try getting it after school today. Based on how rock hard it was this morning I am sure it should hold thru a 1/2 day of school!
5. The biggest looser started this week. I LOVE this show! It is so inspiring to watch these people go from such a low level of activity to absolutely enjoying life! They totally inspire me! It is ironic, however, that most weeks I sit there watching these people working their butts off while I sit on my duff on the couch usually eating dessert. Not good. :)
6. My Mom and Dad and Jane and Ludy leave for Hawaii tomorrow for a week! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jane while she is in Hawaii!! All of you have a SAFE trip and have FUN!!
7. I booked our hotel stay for Adam and I's little anniversary get away in October! We were going to go to Lake Tahoe for 2 days then Napa for 1 1/2 days but there is a minimum 3 hour drive between the two locations so we decided to stay just in Tahoe for the entire time instead. Adam found a beautiful hotel on the California side that has a ton of fun outdoors stuff to do but it is still just a short drive down to the casinos on the Nevada side. I am currently trying to talk Adam into horse back riding. We will see if he does it...he has something against horses. I am SO looking forward to getting away!!
8. We finally decided on Halloween costumes for the kids this week. Alec is going to be Captain Hook (he is SO excited about getting a moustache drawn on his face), Aaron is going to be Peter Pan (He just wants the sward), and Ashley is going to be Tinkerbell. I am going to make Alec and Aaron's costumes, but buy Ashley's from the Disneystore. I am SO excited!! I love Halloween!!
9. Congrats to Amy and Chris on their new addition to their family...Molly the dog!!! You guys will make GREAT parents! :) Plus, it is good practice in case a human bundle of joy comes along!
10. Last for today is a prayer request. Lots of prayers need to be sent out to my friend Carol. She has been battling breast cancer for about 3 years now and has lost the battle. Sadly, Carol is about ready to go at any moment and her husband Brad is doing everything he can to make her comfortable. I met Carol thru Miss Heidi's class where she attended with her little boy, Brady who is 3 years old. Please keep their entire family in your prayers!
1. My sisters, my mom and I went to go see Wicked in LA on Wednesday night, courtesy of my Dad! I had seen the show before, but it was the first time for Amy, Allie and my Mom. They totally enjoyed as did I. It is so nice to be able to spend girl time with my lovely sisters and Mom. They mean the world to me. Thanks SO much Daddy for getting us the tickets!!
2. Aaron started preschool yesterday! I have pictures but have not downloaded them yet. Will do that later and post. He did great and was very happy the entire time. As we walked up he just walked right into the room and started playing. No tears...not even by mommy! He is in GREAT hands there! Today he came out after a few minutes (I was still standing there watching) and asked for another hug and a kiss. SO SWEET!!
3. Ashley's birthday party is 1 week away and I really need to get moving on things!! I reserved the bounce house but have yet to figure out food. I need to call a few places and price out sandwiches. I also have to make the tutu's for the party and put together the favors as well as make a sign...alright, I gotta get moving on it!!!
4. Alec had jean day and crazy hair day at school. He was SO excited to do his own hair this morning. When he finally left for school it had three different products in it and it was STIFF as a board. I totally forgot to get a picture of him though...BAD mom! I will try getting it after school today. Based on how rock hard it was this morning I am sure it should hold thru a 1/2 day of school!
5. The biggest looser started this week. I LOVE this show! It is so inspiring to watch these people go from such a low level of activity to absolutely enjoying life! They totally inspire me! It is ironic, however, that most weeks I sit there watching these people working their butts off while I sit on my duff on the couch usually eating dessert. Not good. :)
6. My Mom and Dad and Jane and Ludy leave for Hawaii tomorrow for a week! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jane while she is in Hawaii!! All of you have a SAFE trip and have FUN!!
7. I booked our hotel stay for Adam and I's little anniversary get away in October! We were going to go to Lake Tahoe for 2 days then Napa for 1 1/2 days but there is a minimum 3 hour drive between the two locations so we decided to stay just in Tahoe for the entire time instead. Adam found a beautiful hotel on the California side that has a ton of fun outdoors stuff to do but it is still just a short drive down to the casinos on the Nevada side. I am currently trying to talk Adam into horse back riding. We will see if he does it...he has something against horses. I am SO looking forward to getting away!!
8. We finally decided on Halloween costumes for the kids this week. Alec is going to be Captain Hook (he is SO excited about getting a moustache drawn on his face), Aaron is going to be Peter Pan (He just wants the sward), and Ashley is going to be Tinkerbell. I am going to make Alec and Aaron's costumes, but buy Ashley's from the Disneystore. I am SO excited!! I love Halloween!!
9. Congrats to Amy and Chris on their new addition to their family...Molly the dog!!! You guys will make GREAT parents! :) Plus, it is good practice in case a human bundle of joy comes along!
10. Last for today is a prayer request. Lots of prayers need to be sent out to my friend Carol. She has been battling breast cancer for about 3 years now and has lost the battle. Sadly, Carol is about ready to go at any moment and her husband Brad is doing everything he can to make her comfortable. I met Carol thru Miss Heidi's class where she attended with her little boy, Brady who is 3 years old. Please keep their entire family in your prayers!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Ice...
We had our annual Fiesta this last weekend at Church. I worked the Mom's club confetti egg booth on Friday night then Saturday afternoon/evening Adam worked security. I had to work the booth again on Sunday night so we decided that I would bring the kids down to late Saturday afternoon and have dinner, do rides, and basically give all the money in my wallet to the church in exchange for 2 hours of family fun. Mission accomplished!
Adam's job in working security detail entails walking around every 3 hours and collecting money from all the food/game/ticket booths. The three hours in between the drops he was pretty much free. I came to the Fiesta right after he did a drop and he was able to have dinner and do some rides with us. We feasted on DELICIOUS Filipino food then played some games for the kids stomachs to settle before trying out the rides. The games at the fiesta are pretty typical carnival. Throw a ball into a fish bowl and win a fish (I steered the kids clear of this one!) Throw dimes in glasses and win the glass (I am now the proud owner of a martini glass, campaign flute and a shot glass), as well as many other booths such as skeeball, balloon darts, etc. You name it, we tried it, except for the fish of course, we won nothing, except for the stupid glasses. Oh well, the kids liked it.
After finishing with the games I finally decided that we were ready to attempt some kiddie rides and so we headed in that direction. As we were walking there Alec tugs on my arm and points to a big white trailer with bold black letters saying, "ICE" on the side. No pictures, just that word. He says to me, "Mommy, does that trailer have ice in it?" I say, "Yes, how did you know that?" He says, "It says it!" I was so excited and told him, "Alec!!! You just read that word and knew what was in the there!!" How cool is that? He just read his first word without prompting, without sounding it out, without it being in a book where there is a picture next to it...SO proud!! GO Alec!
We went on as many rides as our tickets would allow and after smashing some confetti eggs on eachother we headed home. I have such fond memories of the fiesta at St. Phillip's growing up and this one had that same feel. Family oriented, good food, good fun and safe. I am so glad that my kids will have the opportunity to build similar memories to what I remember as a child.
Adam's job in working security detail entails walking around every 3 hours and collecting money from all the food/game/ticket booths. The three hours in between the drops he was pretty much free. I came to the Fiesta right after he did a drop and he was able to have dinner and do some rides with us. We feasted on DELICIOUS Filipino food then played some games for the kids stomachs to settle before trying out the rides. The games at the fiesta are pretty typical carnival. Throw a ball into a fish bowl and win a fish (I steered the kids clear of this one!) Throw dimes in glasses and win the glass (I am now the proud owner of a martini glass, campaign flute and a shot glass), as well as many other booths such as skeeball, balloon darts, etc. You name it, we tried it, except for the fish of course, we won nothing, except for the stupid glasses. Oh well, the kids liked it.
After finishing with the games I finally decided that we were ready to attempt some kiddie rides and so we headed in that direction. As we were walking there Alec tugs on my arm and points to a big white trailer with bold black letters saying, "ICE" on the side. No pictures, just that word. He says to me, "Mommy, does that trailer have ice in it?" I say, "Yes, how did you know that?" He says, "It says it!" I was so excited and told him, "Alec!!! You just read that word and knew what was in the there!!" How cool is that? He just read his first word without prompting, without sounding it out, without it being in a book where there is a picture next to it...SO proud!! GO Alec!
We went on as many rides as our tickets would allow and after smashing some confetti eggs on eachother we headed home. I have such fond memories of the fiesta at St. Phillip's growing up and this one had that same feel. Family oriented, good food, good fun and safe. I am so glad that my kids will have the opportunity to build similar memories to what I remember as a child.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Thursday Ten
Copying my dear friend Michelle, I am going to institute a new weekly blog, the Thursday Ten! Let's see if I can keep it going each week!
1. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my dear sister Amy! You have had an amazing year with a beautiful wedding to a wonderful man and settling into married life. I am so proud of your accomplishments and thank God every day for giving me such a special sister!
2. Remember 9/11...do you remember where you were on that morning? We were living in our Condo and I was getting ready for work and turned on the radio to listen to Mark and Brian as I always did. I heard what was going on but thought it was another prank by the comedy duo. No such luck. When I realized it was real I ran and turned on the tv and yelled for Adam to come and see. Adam came in, looked at the tv and ran to go get his uniform and gun ready in case he got called in. I will NEVER forget that visual of the airplanes hitting the towers as well as the towers falling. Two weeks before 9/11 we were in Washington DC and New York at both those sites. We went into the world trade center on the path train. As we were walking thru the mall we stopped at a small drug shop to buy some advil for me. The little old man working there commented on what a cute couple we were. He was very sweet. I will always remember that man and I still wonder if he made it out safe. As my husband said this morning, the tragedy on 9/11 truly changed our world.
3. Lots of prayers for my Best and Dearest friend Carrie who has been going thru so much but doing so with dignity and incredible faith. You inspire me.
4. Thank you to all who commented back on my post about Alec hugging and kissing me goodbye! Adam talked to him about it and he has hugged and kissed me goodbye every morning since.
5. Speaking of Alec, he is doing GREAT in kindergarten! His writing is improving tremendously and he is just a chatter box about his day when he comes home. His friends are Melody, Taylor and another girl whose name I can't remember. That's right. Girls. Why? So strange.
6. Aaron, Ashley, myself, my Mom, my Dad and Brooklyn all went to Disneyland yesterday while Alec was in school (ssshhhh...don't tell Alec) We had a wonderful time and the kids were EXHAUSTED by the time we left at 2:00 p.m. I ran into an old friend, Patti, working there that I have not seen in over 10 years. It was so nice to catch up with her and reconnect!
7. The Angels clenched the West yesterday!!! GO ANGELS!!!!
8. I received a link from Baby Center yesterday where you could put in your child's age, height, weight and parents height and it would predict your child's height at 18 years old. Mom and I of course had to try it! Predictions - Alec 6' 1" Aaron 5' 7" Ashley 5' 9" Brooklyn 5' 3" It will be interesting to see how accurate it is!
9. We were in the car on Sunday driving to church and hit some traffic. Adam stopped a bit fast behind one car and once we stopped we hear from the back seat Aaron say, "Come on people!!" hahaha! That is SO something that I say!
10. My sweet little girl is going to be 1 in a couple weeks. That is CRAZY!! Allie and I went to LA last Friday and bought a bunch of stuff for her birthday party. She is growing up SO fast!!
1. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my dear sister Amy! You have had an amazing year with a beautiful wedding to a wonderful man and settling into married life. I am so proud of your accomplishments and thank God every day for giving me such a special sister!
2. Remember 9/11...do you remember where you were on that morning? We were living in our Condo and I was getting ready for work and turned on the radio to listen to Mark and Brian as I always did. I heard what was going on but thought it was another prank by the comedy duo. No such luck. When I realized it was real I ran and turned on the tv and yelled for Adam to come and see. Adam came in, looked at the tv and ran to go get his uniform and gun ready in case he got called in. I will NEVER forget that visual of the airplanes hitting the towers as well as the towers falling. Two weeks before 9/11 we were in Washington DC and New York at both those sites. We went into the world trade center on the path train. As we were walking thru the mall we stopped at a small drug shop to buy some advil for me. The little old man working there commented on what a cute couple we were. He was very sweet. I will always remember that man and I still wonder if he made it out safe. As my husband said this morning, the tragedy on 9/11 truly changed our world.
3. Lots of prayers for my Best and Dearest friend Carrie who has been going thru so much but doing so with dignity and incredible faith. You inspire me.
4. Thank you to all who commented back on my post about Alec hugging and kissing me goodbye! Adam talked to him about it and he has hugged and kissed me goodbye every morning since.
5. Speaking of Alec, he is doing GREAT in kindergarten! His writing is improving tremendously and he is just a chatter box about his day when he comes home. His friends are Melody, Taylor and another girl whose name I can't remember. That's right. Girls. Why? So strange.
6. Aaron, Ashley, myself, my Mom, my Dad and Brooklyn all went to Disneyland yesterday while Alec was in school (ssshhhh...don't tell Alec) We had a wonderful time and the kids were EXHAUSTED by the time we left at 2:00 p.m. I ran into an old friend, Patti, working there that I have not seen in over 10 years. It was so nice to catch up with her and reconnect!
7. The Angels clenched the West yesterday!!! GO ANGELS!!!!
8. I received a link from Baby Center yesterday where you could put in your child's age, height, weight and parents height and it would predict your child's height at 18 years old. Mom and I of course had to try it! Predictions - Alec 6' 1" Aaron 5' 7" Ashley 5' 9" Brooklyn 5' 3" It will be interesting to see how accurate it is!
9. We were in the car on Sunday driving to church and hit some traffic. Adam stopped a bit fast behind one car and once we stopped we hear from the back seat Aaron say, "Come on people!!" hahaha! That is SO something that I say!
10. My sweet little girl is going to be 1 in a couple weeks. That is CRAZY!! Allie and I went to LA last Friday and bought a bunch of stuff for her birthday party. She is growing up SO fast!!
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Only 5 days into school...
So, we are what, 5 days into school? I guess Alec is comfortable and likes it there! Grammie and Papa came over with Brooklyn this morning so that I could take Alec to school and get some errands done. It is always so nice taking Alec to school without having to worry about the other two kid-o's. Alec and I chatted and listened to some pirate songs on the way to school. We got out of the car and he held my hand on the way to his classroom. As we walked up to his classroom I leaned down to kiss and hug him, but he walked right past me into the classroom without even looking back! I called after him and he turned around looking at me like, "what?" I guess my little boy is growing up! :(
Now, the question becomes, do I say something to him that it hurt my feelings and that I would like a hug and a kiss from him each morning, or do I accept the fact that he is growing up and let it go? Any opinions my faithful readers?
Now, the question becomes, do I say something to him that it hurt my feelings and that I would like a hug and a kiss from him each morning, or do I accept the fact that he is growing up and let it go? Any opinions my faithful readers?
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