Blog? wha? oh yeah

Okay, based on my lack of blogging and a few of my fellow bloggers lack of blogging, I think we are having the "Holiday let down's". Your still so tired and your mind is finally starting to mellow from all of the hustle and bustle. But here I am!

Carol is still in rehab center. Getting better everyday with her new knee. Hopefully she will come home next week.

I am off all week this week. Hoping to go visit my brother while I am off.

Last night Eric said he wanted to go to Mexico this week since the kids are off. Our favorite hotel closes for repairs for the next two weeks. I am trying to think of somewhere else we can go. Drive to San Francisco? Somewhere closer? I still have never been to that little "Holland" city. (Can't remember the name of it right now).

I am off to pick up K from track practice (YES on New Year's Eve) and then we are heading to Costco (with my gift card from my mom! WOO HOO)

Tonight, handing out. Playing the Wii, with the iTouch, DS. Good times. I gotta pick up some fire logs!

Happy New Year!

Christmas day and i am blogging from bradley's iPod touch. Both he and Krystal got one because they have wonderful parents
Ha ha Andrea it is the way of the world!

Merry Christmas!

Last song

Okay this is the last and probably the song that hits home the most when I think of my dad. I have been waiting to post because it is kinda hard to share these things but I have to get past them sometime.

Of course, seeing that it is almost Christmas, my emotions are pretty high anyway.

Here are some of the lyrics that really describe the pain I feel, not to mention the way he sounds as he sings them.
If I lay here, If I just lay here. Would you lie with me and just forget the world?
I don't quite know how to say how I feel
Those three words (for me it is I miss you) Are said too much They're not enough
I need your grace to remind me to find my own
I don't know where, confused about how as well, just know that these things will never change for us at all

I hope that song writers out there know that sometimes how they intended the song, is not how it is received. I don't know what I would have done without music to help me get through this seemingly impossible time.

This is a picture from my work holiday party. Left to right beginning next to Santa. Katie, me, Erika, Jennie and Priscilla.
The party was a lot of fun even if I didn't win at Bingo!

Alright Eric, this one IS cute

Who has time for a post anymore? This weekend was jam-packed.

Eric’s mom had knee replacement surgery on Friday. We spent our day at the hospital. She is doing well. She is getting ready to be moved to a rehabilitation facility. Did you know that you have 13 days after knee replacement to get the knee used to moving?

Saturday we went to visit Carol (Eric’s mom) in the hospital for a bit. Then we went to Siobhan’s dance rehearsal. Poor Eric and Diego were stuck in the car for an hour and a half! When she was done, we went out to eat, then back to the hospital.

Sunday was Siobhan’s dance! I dropped her and Krystal off about 12:45. My mom and I went to buy Siobhan some flowers. Her performance was at 2pm. She was brilliant (of course!). Eric took Diego to see his mom and K, B and I stayed to help. The Nut Cracker was at 4:30. We helped backstage until about 6:15. Man were we all tired (except for Bradley who got to sit down the whole time).

I took the kids out to dinner and then we headed home. Krystal and I ordered the same dinner but only one of us was up in the middle of the night throwing up. Lucky for me, it was her. Sorry Krystal! Ha ha

Today we will, of course, go visit Carol again. I am supposed to bake cookies for a cookie exchange at work with my staff. I told them I would probably have to pick them up. I am also supposed to pick up my boss’ gift. Ah, where does all the time go?

Beautiful Siobhan

Going to the performance of the year

We are ready to head out to Siobhan's school performance. She looks beautiful (of course). Maybe I will have video or pictures later.

Dr. Dr. give me the news

I went to the doctor yesterday. I have been feeling dizzy the last couple days and it got bad enough that I vomited. So off I went. Lost a few pounds (could stay to lose like a million more) and blood pressure is great. She tested me for Vertigo, nope not that. Probably something viral she said. Take some medicine she said. It should go away in about 2 weeks she said. TWO WEEKS! She said she could give me some medicine so I won't throw up. Nah, not necessary plus I don't really like to take medicine. I am just kinda bummed there wasn't anything concretely wrong.

She said move slowly (already figured THAT one out), take it easy, rest! Let your blood pressure catch up with you. Well, that is nice. $15 co-pay for what? To find out there is nothing wrong with me. I swear that is why I never go to the doctor. Even when you think you need to, nope!

Oh well, at least I got a refill on my Qvar (for asthma). That is something, right?!

It is a few years old, but still worth a giggle!

Practically home alone

Eric, Krystal and Bradley have gone to a UCLA basketball game. I am home with the little one's which is much like being home alone. They are eating at their desks and watching The Little Mermaid. Bliss. I could do whatever I wanted for an hour and a half. Ha ha not to say I couldn't normally, but somehow it is different.

We still need to get our Christmas tree. Maybe tonight or tomorrow. I have gifts that need to go somewhere!

The kids are ready for the holidays!

wanna see? Click here!

Santa is a bit prejudice

I was watching Rudolph and have you ever really payed attention? Santa told Rudolph and his dad that Rudolph can't fly with him because his nose glows. The Coach told everyone not to let Rudolph play and Reindeer games because of his nose. I mean, what is that about? Someone is a little different and WHAM, suddenly you are not welcome. I know that is what the whole story is, but I never really paid attention to that before. You think SANTA would know better. Frankly no one cared until they needed something. Nice!

Well, Bradley's room in half clean. I swear, I would like to move in some big a*s vacuum and suck everything in there. I don't care if he needs it.

I think I have a spider bite on my eye lid. (I HATE spiders). It is swollen but not as bad as this morning. I think I might not die.

no time to blog

If anyone wonders where I am, I am in Bradley's room watching him clean it. Nice! Real nice. I would rather be here, believe me!

Your Birthdate: July 18

You are a cohesive force - able to bring many people together for a common cause. You tend to excel in work situations, but you also facilitate a lot of social gatherings too. Beyond being a good leader, you are good at inspiring others. You also keep your powerful emotions in check - you know when to emote and when to repress. Your strength: Emotional maturity beyond your years Your weakness: Wearing yourself down with too many responsibilities Your power color: Crimson red Your power symbol: Snowflake Your power month: September

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Christmas lights? Check!

Yep, they are up! We only had to buy seven replacement bulbs. We use those big boy lights. You know the one's that are BIG bulbs. None of those small little icicle lights for us. Pffttt, who has even seen icicles in Southern California anyway. ha ha

Siobhan and I were coming home from her dance class this morning and I said, "Siobhan look how beautiful the sky is, you can see the mountains, the sky is actually blue and there are beautiful white clouds in the sky". She said " I want to go to the beach". ha ha Where was her head? I was at the mountains and she was at the beach.

Kids are playing a new game we got tonight for the Wii called Playground. Pretty cute. Siobhan likes it, Diego likes Wii Carnival better. We have a fire and it is a great weekend!

What is that?

I am so confused. It is wet on the ground. I am pretty sure I didn't leave the sprinklers on all night. Wait, it is wet on the street too. Did some crash into a fire hydrant? Did a really big dog go pee. My car appears wet as well. This is very, very odd. I am definitely going to have to Google this. This is really weird!

Oh my gosh!

Wow!
After hours trading, Apple stock was $185.62. I guess everyone BUT Andrea is buying an iPod! Better join now Andrea. Pretty soon you will be an outcast!

Okay ladies

Tomorrow is it. A post today and a post tomorrow and fini! Wow. I don't know about the two of you but it hasn't been as hard as I thought. I think honestly the hardest part for me was thinking at random times, "Did I post?", "Oh my gosh, I have to post". ha ha

Still feeling a bit sick. Body feels sluggish. I am still wheezing (going through inhalers like crazy!)

Diego has been walking around with one hand in his pocket. I think it is adorable. It bothers Eric but I think it is cute. He looks like a big boy!

Bradley is playing varsity soccer. I wish he would grow up though, he still acts like a little kid. Fighting with Siobhan and Diego like he is still 10 instead of 17. Siblings, maybe they never grow up.

Gotta get to dropping four kids off at three different places now. Good times!

Back to work

I went back to work today. Ahh, I feel better. Of course now my stomach is a little tender. I don't know why.

Siobhan has her school Christmas play and her dance performance coming up. Thank goodness none of the other one's have too many things going on.

Short post. I still have to go to the pet store and then off to Siobhan's school.

Ta ta

A few photos

I am sitting here thinking "what to write". I thought I would post a few photos. Siobhan is singing "God loves me" so I have beauitful background music.
This is a photo taken in front of Notre Dame of Krystal and Bradley. Those birds HATED me and would not come to me no matter how much food I held out for them. Obviously a while ago. When we found out I was pregnant we thought we better take them to Europe while we still could.






Siobhan showing her art work for her Daddy's present. We are still not sure how she is getting a B in Art when it seems to be all she does.
Krystal and Diego at a party last year. Gosh they get big so fast.






Siobhan playing GH3 on the Wii. Could she be any cuter?

Song two

I am not even sure if I would normally like this song, but this one still hurts to listen to. Even the name, Breath. That is how I felt, "cradle your head in your hands, and breath just breath". It was all I could do. If I could do that, then the next one would follow. "Life is like an hour glass glued to the table". "No one can find the rewind button".

The pain is still so strong, sometimes it still takes over everything I am. Sometimes I feel like it almost defines who I am.

Lazy Day

Woke up to Krystal telling me my mom called and she is coming over. Great! We had to get up. Okay, it was 11 but a cold or something hit yesterday and I was sneezing and wheezing and feeling like crap. Siobhan and I watched I Love Lucy at 2:30am. I watched a couple of movies today.

Krystal took Siobhan to The Block. They actually took the bus (it is down one street and about 10 minutes), I picked them up. We had McDonald's for dinner. No, wait you don't understand. We NEVER have fast food. Never! It was yummy. Of course 3 of the 4 kids complained of hurting belly's shortly afterwards, but they are fine. Yum Yum McDonald's.

I can't believe it is back to work tomorrow. Ah, it is so nice to be off, even if the Christmas lights don't get put up like I REALLY wanted. Sigh, you can't have everything!

Song one

There are three songs that really meant a lot to me when my dad passed away. I was going to post some of the lyrics, or just all of them but I thought it wouldn't do them justice. So I have decided to post the video's so that you can hear them.

The first one, you have certainly heard before. Wake me up when September ends. I heard this for the very first time about two days after my father died. My dad passed away on September 20, 2005. (The song's release date that I found was September 27, 2005).

Listen to it again and just think of how much it made sense to me. The title alone says it all. I know it isn't what they intended, but that is the thing about songs. They mean something different to everyone.

Black Friday

Well, I didn't get up at 5am. It was more like 7am when I woke up on my own. As I was laying there, I thought "What the hell you are already awake. There ARE door buster prices". So off K and I went.

We went to Toys R Us, where it took us a bit of time to find a parking space. In we went. Oh my GOSH! There were people everywhere! The line was around the store! I actually got very little. One, because the sales were not that good. Two, I couldn't go down the row I really wanted to because there was another line down it. Now, if this had been the checkout line, no big deal. I could shop while I was waiting to check out but it was the line to check out in electronics (I was informed about 10 minutes after waiting in line, bitter). So, I didn't even get to look at what I wanted to get in the first place.

The checkout line, although VERY long went quickly. They were very organized and had staff everywhere to help with anything. I was standing around looking for Krystal and employee asked me if I needed anything. WOW! That never happens. Anyway, I spent less than $20.00. The items I got that I was so excited about weren't even on sale. They were a bargain 74 cents.

Since we didn't find any bargains there we went to Target across the street. The store was much less crowded and the line, wasn't one! I got a couple things, Krsytal got almost all her shopping done.

My opinion, stay home unless there is something you saw advertised that you really want that is a REAL bargain. Black Friday shopping, overrated!

Should I or shouldn't I?

Trying to decide if I should tempt fate and get up and go shopping at 5am tomorrow. On one hand I think it would be fun, on the other, hmm a crowd. Eric said they are supposed to have better deals later. I have never gone shopping the day after Thanksgiving before. Krystal wants to go too. I could be back in bed before the little one's even get up.

Hmmmm

Hey all you lucky turkeys. We are having ham!

Off to Bradley's soccer game!

Momma needs a new pair of shoes

I need new shoes. My feet hurt. When I was training for my (half) marathon, Eric said we have to get you a good pair of shoes. We went to the shoe store that specializes in running and they had me walk barefoot over this thing hooked up to the computer. It basically tells you what kind of support you need. They found three shoes that should be perfect for me. I tried one on, hmm nice. Then the other, feels funny. Then the last one, "Oh my God Eric, I feel like I am walking on a cloud". No kidding! This is it, I will take these. Eric takes them to pay and they are $109.00. Huh? Um. Well.

So I figured, okay over a hundred for running shoes, yeah it is a lot. But I AM doing a marathon (at that time I didn't know it would be a half). So I put them on and head out for our first training. Oh man. Everything hurt BUT my feet. I kept those shoes for months and put many miles on them. I bought another pair about a month before the event. I did not mind at all. At that point I was walking about 4 miles everyday after work and about 10 on Saturdays.

Now, hmm, only going around the neighborhood. I can't justify that much money for that. I know part of it is because I am so overweight. Part of me thinks, if you are in pain, you won't do this. Can't there be a nice middle somewhere. A good pair for $50. We are not cheap in this house when it comes to shoes. No Payless or no name brands here. We want quality.

Oh, I don't know. No matter what it will have to wait until after Christmas. Four freaking kids! ha ha

Dear Santa, I would really like a brand new all paid for Range Rover. I can buy my own shoes!
Love and kisses,
Diane

haha I am sending it out NOW!

A little about myself

I really like to cook on Sunday, the other six days, not so much.
I love to read. Favorite food- probably pizza, favorite drink- Dr. Pepper, favorite snack- popcorn
I like 3 musketeers candy bars and when I have one, I eat all the chocolate off first.
I am not a big fan of chocolate. I don't really like pie.
I love veggies and fruit. Really, almost all of them!
I love my teenagers but wonder what it will be like when they move out.
The little one's, I wish they would stop growing up.
I am very literal, it drives Eric nuts. I am sarcastic (got it from my dad)
I love music. I think people who do not have to have music around them have something wrong with them.
I have a few friends who I would do anything for and I would ask anything of them in return.
I miss my dad every single minute. I still cry randomly.
I can shower and be dressed in about 5 minutes (includes washing and conditioning my hair)
I do not like to plan things, I would rather go along for the ride.
I am really bad with money. I try, but still...
I want to write a book someday (doesn't everyone), I am pretty sure I would be good at it too.
I actually like fast food. I try not to eat but I like it
I like steak. I hate fish.
A few years ago I would never try anything new, now I will take a taste.
I have a friend I see most days and wished we were closer.

Okay, enough already, who cares. ha ha but I got a blog in!

But you just ate 4-6 hours ago

This is the game I am playing. I am so into that game. I have abandoned my family for that game. In the walk through, they say about the 9th (or something) day move your people into the tree-house. WHAT! I have put HOURS into this game. I just moved into the tree-house. I am on day 73! It is kinda like the Sims which is probably why I like it so much. I will get in whatever time I can. Kids are napping, game time. Nothing on tv, game time. One hour until Amazing Race, game time! Eric said, I am tired of seeing you play that game, yeah yeah, I am TRYING to help these people eat here. ha ha I can devote SERIOUS time to a game if I REALLY like it!

If you have a DS and have time to play and don't have children that require breakfast, lunch AND dinner, get this game. It is fun. Someone at my work bought it and she is hooked.

Why am I blogging? I could be playing my game!

Bradley's gift

Here is Bradley playing GH3 for the Wii that he got for his birthday. It is really cool. I have even enjoyed playing! Rock on! By the way, not sure WHAT Diego is doing there!

In honor of Conner!
Just kidding, be safe!

Soccer

The Jasso's are the proud (super super super partial) owners of a soccer team. We have a share in this futbol team located in Kent England. I can't wait to go to a game!
Click here to check it out

Worth the click

For some reason it won't save to my desktop. This was sent to me by my husband. One of his Flickr! contacts took his picture. Believe me, well worth the click. Oh yes! WELL worth it!
Well worth it!

Happy Birthday Bradley

My son is 17 today! Do you know how old this makes me. 17? Oh my gosh, where has the time gone? How have they gotten older but I stayed the same? Aren't I still 28?

Thursday or hell day?

What a morning. I would say a morning from hell but I guess it wasn’t quite THAT bad. I didn’t feel so hot this morning so I didn’t get my walk in this morning. I didn’t feel sick so much as exhausted. You know when you laying there and your body feels like dead weight? That was me.

I had Krystal put laundry in yesterday when she got home from school. Come to find out this morning she never put it in the dryer. Um, my work pants are in there. So, luckily they are of a thinner material and dry pretty quickly. I am getting really tired of things like this. She is supposed to be an adult. She actually wants to get a job, but she is home about three hours alone and can’t manage one load of laundry? Come on! Lazy! Needless to say she will be doing some housework tonight!

In addition to yesterday’s blog, Eric doesn’t want turkey, not a big surprise there. He said to get a Honey Baked Ham (he actually said, that really good ham, but I know what he mans) and tamales. Whatever. I can make baked potatoes and maybe I might try and bake a pie, maybe not. What I do know is the kids are going to find (or we will buy yet another set) of lights and put them up the day after. I am going to decorate some for Christmas this year! I am! Really! I mean it!

Crazy Morning

What is going on this morning? Things are crazy. The kids are acting like they had a bunch of sugar or something. The cat threw up. I think my dog is throwing up right now (outside). Weird.

So Thanksgiving is coming up. I was trying to talk Eric into going to Mexico. The hotel we stay at has a special for 3 nights and it includes Thanksgiving dinner for four. We haven't been there for an extended time in a while. I guess it isn't going to work out. I thought we might go to my mom's for dinner (she is ALWAYS ready to cook for us) but Bradley has a soccer game. Eric and I aren't big on the dinner thing but I think if we are going to be home I will give it a go. I HAVE cooked a turkey before. I think the best Thanksgiving I had since we have been together was the year we took my Land Rover to the park to go off roading. That was a lot of fun! (We took the dogs too, but Cucui got car sick with all that bumping around).

So, I have only decided as I was writing this that I would actually make a Thanksgiving dinner. I know Eric will say it is too much work. It will probably take a few extra hours with our P.O.S oven, but alas I shall attempt it. WIsh me luck people (better yet wish us ALL luck!)

Maybe, just maybe it will be okay

Maybe this getting up early and walking thing will be okay. Here it is 7am, I am usually just getting up, and I have walked and showered already. I am ready to go to work minus the shoes. It gives me a lot more time to get Siobhan ready. She requires light direction in the morning, otherwise her feelings get hurt and the tears come. And lookie here it gives me time to blog first thing too.

On thing about this blogging once a day is I don't have much time to read everyone else's blogs. I don't spend nearly as much time on the internet as I used to. And if one my favorite people posted a long blog, I have to come back to it. I could read them while I am at work but I don't want to be one of those people who does a lot of non work things during work.

I hope everyone has a wonderful day. I will be home early today where I plan to read about Julie's dogs and laugh again and Felicity's picture of food all over her face!

Well Eric is comfy in bed. Bradley and Krystal are off for the day. I have to work. Siobhan has half day (parent teacher conferences). I want to be comfy in bed too.

Fresh and Easy

Okay people, especially you Andrea, there is a new market out there. It is called
Fresh and Easy Neighborhood Market. It is similar to the markets they have in Europe (Tesco). There are not a lot of them yet. The closest one to us was very west Anaheim (almost Garden Grove).

Okay, here is my review of Fresh and Easy. First off, they have family parking right in front! I think there were four or five spaces for families. I love that idea. I love that Ikea had it and I loved it here. (I ALWAYS have at least one kid with me, usually three or four). It was larger than I thought but still on the smaller side, like a Trader Joes. The first isle is fresh flowers and fruit on one side and veggies on the other. Here is where is differs some. The fruit and veggies are already packaged for the most part. So, it isn't per pound (except for bananas). You get 2 pomegranates for whatever price. You get a bag of oranges and a bag of apples, but NOT like the bags at Albertsons or Ralph's. These are not plastic bags where some of the fruit is bad. Everything looked great.

They have a couple of isles that are prepared food. I will use Albertsons as my comparision for the most part because that is where I shop (I received another hand written thank you letter from the manager just yesterday). The prepared food is fresh (only good for a couple of days) and good food. We got a few for dinner that night, all for the microwave. I got the chicken fajitas (it came with salsa, sour cream, FOUR flour tortillas and chicken, grilled onions and bell peppers. Bradley and the little one's got chicken enchiladas'. Siobhan and Diego shared one, it had two chicken enchiladas (slightly spicy but yummy!) rice and beans. Bradley did finish his. Eric had spaghetti and meatballs. Krystal got California rolls. The meals were about $3.99-4.99 each. Not a bad deal. For a family of six, maybe not for everyday but NO more expensive than fast food really. One thing I really liked was they had a little package of carrots, juice, (now my mind has gone but it had only good for you stuff in a little package you could send as your child's or your lunch).

Eric got some ham that we have not been able to find in the US. Every thinly sliced different types of ham. They had so many cheeses that all I could think of was Europe. They have fresh breads (we went on Friday and they were dated to be eaten by Monday). They even had the small corn tortillas (I never see those anywhere). They have their own brands of many things and had people giving out tastes of different items. The isles are big enough and the store is bright. Everyone who worked there was very friendly ( of course it was only the second day). They weren't just "healthy" food. They had some frozen stuff you would find at Albertson's as well as vitamins and baby items.

Okay, I guess the thing I would be asking, what about the prices? The cereal was a bit more then when it is on sale at Albertson's. Just about everything else was cheaper. Considerable cheaper. I would highly recommend at least checking it out if there is one anywhere around you. It is worth the drive. I wish we had one real close, I would go very often. I would love to buy stuff every few days, I am at the store anyway.

If you do go, please let me know what you think!

Okay I KNOW it is a bad picture ( my cell phone stinks with photos) but this is a car on fire at our neighborhood Albertson's. It seemingly took the Fire Department some time to get there. It was so long I actually called 911 to report it. Of course, someone already had. There were Paramedics parked close by but they didn't do anything until after a few (long) minutes, they brought out a fire extinguisher.

Some guy (guessing the owner) was opening the door of the car to get something and swoosh, the fire really took over. There were people all over the place. Crazy! No one was hurt thank goodness!

UCLA Osaar Rasshan

I know it says he is a QB but he isn't. The first, second and THIRD Quarterbacks were out so he filled in. I thought he did an amazing job! Some of the passes he made were great! Especially considering UCLA doesn't play him as a quarterback but receiver. Way to go! I thought you did great!

Friday night's alright

At home watching Ghandi with the family. This is the first time I have seen the movie. Why did I wait so long? It is amazing.

Anyone want a cat?

Who are you voting for?

I wasn't able to put this on the sidebar. Stupid blogger! Oh well. I am not counting this as my post for the day either!

I told Diego we were getting Thai food. He said "Yeah, I love Thailand food". ha ha

As always, thinking of you Nan!

ER time

Today I took my mother-in-law to the ER (she is okay!) Everyone knows it takes forever whenever you go to the ER. I have a theory on that now. We got there pretty early so there weren't any other people waiting. They took her back fairly quickly, found out what was going on and took her to a room. All of this in about 30 minutes. Good timing.

A nurse came right in to find out the problem, a doctor followed soon after. They took the specimens they needed, then the wait began. Don't get me wrong, I realized tests take time. I have NO problem with that. THAT I understand. They decided to do an ultrasound and did that in a reasonable amount of time. Wait. Wait. Diego and I went to visit my mom who works at that hospital. We walked around a bit. She was still waiting. Wait. Diego went to the bathroom about three times, still waiting.

Finally someone comes back says "blah blah blah is wrong with you" "Do this and this" Great! Doctor says "here take this medicine". Super I think, we are OUT of here! Doctor says " I just need to get your Rx". Wonderful! After about 10 minutes, we agree that I will just take Diego to the car where he will enjoy listening to the Toy Story Disney Storyette on my iPod (yes, Andrea, iPOD!) So we head down, it is slow going because Diego really enjoys stairs!

I call Eric "Your mom is fine, Just waiting should be any minute" Yeah, any minute 30 minutes later. Seems they wanted to make sure she didn't react to the meds they gave her. Again no problem with that, but why not SAY SOMETHING. How about "We still get to get your Rx but we want to make sure you don't have a reaction to the medicine we just gave you so it will be about 30 minutes". Would that be too much to ask?

All in all we were there about four hours. Not really too bad. Only one trip to the gift shop (Diego couldn't understand why he couldn't actually get a gift for someone, yeah right at those prices!". One bag of trail mix, Diego was GREAT! Seriously Great!

So, my thought as I was waiting in the car. They make sure you aren't going to die and they make you wait. Do you want to know why? To discourage you from coming back. That is why! I am sure of it. They probably teach that in medical school, otherwise everyone would show up at the ER. How many times have you thought "Oh, if I go I am going to have to wait forever!". It doesn't take forever, get them in and get them out. How difficult is that!

It is a conspiracy, I am sure of that!

Are cell phone dangerous?

I was coming home from work the other night and I saw a girl walking down the street talking on her cell phone. She was so busy talking that she wasn't paying attention to anything else. What if she is walking down a street and someone is following her? She wouldn't even notice. Think about most people you see who are on the phone. They pay little attention to anything else. At the store I saw this lady on her phone pay for her food and start walking off leaving her wallet behind. I mean, come on people. I just don't get it. Do we have more to talk about? Do we need immediate gratification all of the time? Would it hurt to say "Hey, can I call you back in a bit, I am (fill it in) at the doctor, going through a drive through, in the store, AT DINNER!

Oh well, be safe out there people!

Oh yeah

Not only did I FINALLY get to enjoy my jacuzzi tub last night. My car was fixed today and cost a hundred bucks less then we thought. Oh yeah! So excited.

I almost missed Heros last night because I didn't want to get out of the tub. Man, that thing uses A LOT of water. I think I am going to have to limit baths to the weekend. I will have to start filling it up 15 minutes before I want to get it. But, oh it felt SO good!

I love my husband for making sure I got one. He kept saying "go pick a tub", but I put it off for years. Ahhhhh

Hang on, literally

I took my car in today because the seat belt doesn't work. The seat belt. These things only happen to me. Everything else works fine. My car hit a 100,000 miles and runs great and the dang seat belt doesn't work. It won't pull out or go in. What, seriously, is that about?! Grrr.

Hopefully it will be done tomorrow. I have the BEST mechanic ever! If you need one, let me know!

Turn your clocks back

If we got an extra hour, then why am I so freaking tired?!

We woke up earlier than usual for a Sunday but it wasn't THAT early. (Andrea I am so sorry, I know you are up at all hours!) I dropped K and her grandma off at the mall and Siobhan and I made a run to Lowe's for something else for the tub. Eric went to Home Depot for something else (this is his fourth trip I think!)

We have a LA Galaxy game today. It is a fundraiser for the people who were effected by the fires. There will be a lot of stars there. Again, hopefully Beckham will take off his shirt. (He is HOT!)

I just might get to take a bath tonight. Ahh, I think we have been without a tub for about a year and a half. Except for the two little one's I am the only one who really takes a bath. I LOVE a hot bath. Now I will have a hot jacuzzi bath! Oh yes, with my candles and wine cooler and a good book. What could be better? I might even post a picture.

I guess there is probably no time for a nap either! Dang it!

New links

Hey I messed around with my links. I added a couple. I added Julie's and my oldest son, Bradley. I don't know how often Bradley will actually update but he says he is going to keep it up!

Julie is a fellow mom trying to muddle through life. Gosh, we all need a vacation!

Andrea, Julie-let's go! Hey Mackey, Drama Mama, Melissa and Diet Coke Queen-want to join us?!

I am committed, well sort of, maybe, I guess

Okay I am putting it on paper (so to speak!) I am going to get my lazy fat ass (along with the rest of me) and get up at 6am starting Monday and go for a walk before work. I will walk everyday that I go to work (except if it is raining or I am ill of course). That should still give me time to shower, and get the brats off to where they all need to go!

I have been saying I am going to do it for a while. I thought since the time is changing it is the perfect opportunity to make this change. Besides, the morning is the only time it doesn't interfere with anything and everything else I might have to do.

So there it is. I am committed. It is in writing. I have told everyone. (I am convincing myself here!, I LOVE to sleep!)

Oh yes, may I help you?

Thursday I dropped Siobhan off at school and I swear I could barely see out of my windshield. I pulled into the only gas station between Siobhan's school and Krystal's school. There was a guy standing there (right in the way). I pulled up and left the car on. K jumped out to clean the windshield. He said "Can I help you?" She said "No, I am just going to clean the windshield". He said "I will do, I am not doing anything else.". He cleaned the windshield 100 times better than Krystal would have. He offered us a free calendar. No thanks. "Would you like coffee? It's free!". Again, I said "No thanks".

That was it. He said "Have a nice day" and off we went. He didn't ask for a tip. He didn't think we were buying gas. I didn't think you could do that anymore. I can't actually remember which gas station it was. I know it wasn't Cheveron because that is the gas we use.

Remember full service gas stations? Kinda reminds me of that!

Let the games begin

Okay, ladies, are you ready? I have plenty of things to at least post in case my brain stops working. Think about it, photos (small caption extra bonus?), blog about someone else's blog, write a review. There are endless things to blog about.

The day after Halloween, the kids aren't so eager to get up. Lazy they are. Of course we were so busy yesterday that it wasn't until very late I realized that Siobhan's pe uniform needed to be washed. She is out of drinks for lunch. I was supposed to prepare a crock-pot for tonight's dinner (something I am trying, be prepared, obviously NOT working!) where did the night go?

Can you imagine how much more difficult it would have been if the time had changed already?

Day one, completed BEFORE work. Oh yeah, I rock!

BOO!

Siobhan and Diego. I can't believe Diego actually left this on all night! Classic!

Good Morning

I can't sleep. I tossed and turned all night. I feel like I had a pot of coffee or something. Geez, I was so tired too. Well, it is giving me a chance to catch up on some blogs I haven't read in a little while. I always love to check out the links that the sites I read have posted. Usually if I like someone I will enjoy reading who they enjoy reading!

Want to check out some moobies? click here!

Want to see some really good scary pictures? I really like these! click here! You have to scroll down some, to the post dated 10/18

Ahh, now the decision. Do I stay up? If I could fall asleep I could get two more hours. BUT will I be able to fall asleep? Why is it somehow worst just laying there? Okay, maybe I will click Next Blog for a while and see what there is to see!

A blog a day in November

I was going to sign up for NaBloPoMo but they want you to blog once a day on their site. I thought you could do it on your current blog. So, I will do it on my own. I will write once a day in the month of November. They may be REALLY short but I will make the commitment. I know you guys are waiting everyday for something exciting from me everyday anyway (yeah right!) so now you will get something!

Siobhan and Bianca

Beach Boys

Eric is playing the Beach Boys. Hearing them always reminds me of spending summers with my dad here in California (I was living in Tennessee). I remember sitting in the van, head out the window listening to the Beach Boys in the 8 track. Spending a lot of time with my Aunty Sylvia and Uncle Russ. I used to love going to their house. There was always so much to do.

I really miss all of them. I wonder what my kids will think of when they hear the Beach Boys in another 10-15 years.

I guess my dad, my aunt and uncle and grandparents are probably in Heaven playing cards. How many hours did I spend at my grandma and Pap Pap's house watching tv while they played cards. My dad would pick me up from skating at midnight and they would continue still playing cards. I would fall asleep watching Eddy Murphy on Saturday Night Live. Ahh, no worries.

God, I miss them all so very much!

a few things

Siobhan is collecting Pennies from Heaven at her school. The change goes to unwed mothers and a shelter that helps support them. I told one of the girls at work and she started crying. "That is so sweet, she is so little". I said well it is the school and I told her "you help them everyday", we laughed over that!

The air is still bad here due to the fires. I thought there were a bunch of bugs by my car, it was ash! My eyes are burning like crazy, asthma isn't so great either.

Bradley goes tomorrow to have all four of his wisdom teeth removed. Should be a fun next couple of days for him! ha ha

I can't believe Christmas is only two months away. Everyone is getting a "Merry Christmas" as a gift this year! (yeah right!)

I think my mom just got back from Hawaii where she runs off to every so often with her boyfriend. Sheez, whatever!

Siobhan has a dance performance in December. They want her to dance with the older kids. Her teacher said she might need her to dance both since she will need her to fill in with the little one's too (She is moving up as of this week!)

Ahh, that is it!

from nbc7.com

Keep your hat on!

The winds are supposed to be 50 MPH today. Yesterday in some places they were over 100 MPH. We have many large fires going on here, even in Orange County. Scary. I saw the news early this morning. There was a coral of horses and the fire was just on top of the hill. The poor horses were all at one end. Someone finally let them go so they were able to run to safety.

In Orange County, horses can be taken to the OC Fairgrounds.

Thanks bananaland

Eating a banana can cheer you up. Bananas are the only fruit to contain the amino acid, tryptophan plus Vitamin B6 which together help the body produce seratonin, the natural chemical which alleviates mental depression. (It's also found in Prozac.) That's why we call them "nature's good mood food."

My two beautiful girls

California Law

Did you know?

Your dog can not be tied up for more than 3 hours in a 24 hour period.

In order to ride your bike on the sidewalk you must be 12 years of age or younger.

Blog Action Day

Okay boingboing here you are!
Want to save some water? It might not mean too much to some of you but for those of us who live in the desert it is REALLY important! I have a friend who washes her hands forever and leaves the water on the whole time (she knows who she is!)

1. Take shorter showers. One or two minutes less time in the shower
can save up to 700 gallons a month.
2. Turn off the water faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving.
3. Fix leaky faucets, toilets and pipes.
4. Wash only full loads in your washing machine and dishwasher.
5. Refrigerate drinking water instead of running the faucet until water
runs cool.
6. Don't use the toilet for a waste basket you will save hundreds of gallons.
7. Water lawns early in the mornings and only if needed.
8. Mulch around trees and plants to hold water and cool the soil.
9. Wash your car using a bucket of sudsy water followed by a quick hose
rinse. Be sure to use a shutoff nozzle.
10. Clean sidewalks and driveways with a broom, not water from a hose.

Twitter anyone?

Anyone on Twitter? I am new to it and need some people to follow. Let me know!

A trip to the swap meet for some new glasses.

Life is in my way

Well, this week has been busy. Monday was a holiday for everyone but Krystal and myself. Krystal took Siobhan to her old preschool to see her teachers and friends. One of her teachers was crying she was so happy. Siobhan had such great experiences there.

I thought I was going to the PTO meeting at Siobhan's school only to find out they had rescheduled for the previous day. The meeting I was at was the planning for Casino night. Ah, well... I still earned 2 service hours. 18 more to go!

I took Bradley to the dentist earlier in the week to get a referral to have his wisdom teeth removed. Yesterday we went to the dentist that will remove them. It can take THREE weeks to get the approval through our insurance. Good thing he isn't in too much pain!

I am taking my friend Yoli to the airport tonight. She has to fly to Mexico because her Grandpa isn't doing so well. So very sad.

Siobhan has a two hour dance class tomorrow, so I have to be there by 9am instead of 10. Yikes! I will really need my spiced chai tea. Maybe K can volunteer at Martinez Book Store.

Well, I need to get ready for work. Fridays! I love Fridays at work!

Change by Tracy Chapman

If you knew that you would die today,
Saw the face of God and love,
Would you change?
Would you change?

If you knew that love can break your heart
When you're down so low you cannot fall
Would you change?
Would you change?

How bad, how good does it need to get?
How many losses? How much regret?
What chain reaction would cause an effect?
Makes you turn around,
Makes you try to explain,
Makes you forgive and forget,
Makes you change?
Makes you change?

If you knew that you would be alone,
Knowing right, being wrong,
Would you change?
Would you change?

If you knew that you would find a truth
That brings up pain that can't be soothed
Would you change?
Would you change?

How bad, how good does it need to get?
How many losses? How much regret?
What chain reaction would cause an effect?
Makes you turn around,
Makes you try to explain,
Makes you forgive and forget,
Makes you change?
Makes you change?

Are you so upright you can't be bent?
If it comes to blows are you so sure you won't be crawling?
If not for the good, why risk falling?
Why risk falling?

If everything you think you know,
Makes your life unbearable,
Would you change?
Would you change?

If you'd broken every rule and vow,
And hard times come to bring you down,
Would you change?
Would you change?

oh, hello there!

How have you been? Really! Glad to hear it!

This weekend my brother David is coming for a visit. I haven't seen him since my dad's memorial service two years ago. He lives in Vermont now. It will be nice to have all three of my brothers in one place!

Work is going well, although I have to work this Saturday. Ah, well.

Diego and I had some work done at the dentist. Seems I need a crown (great!). Diego had a tiny itty bitty little hole in on of his front teeth. Took all of 5 minutes for him to fix it. I LOVE my dentist. He explained and showed Diego every single thing before doing anything. He also let me stand there and hold Diego's hand!

Sounds like Krystal might have herself a regular babysitting job for Saturdays (minus this one of course!). She is doing well at school and enjoys being a Senator.

My mom is going to Hawaii next week or the week after with her boyfriend. Maybe they need someone to carry the luggage next time?

Siobhan is doing well at school. She isn't talking about her preschool as much anymore. All the kids and Eric are off on Monday so I asked Krystal to take Siobhan over to her old preschool and let her visit. I know she really misses her teachers and Katie.

Okay, well it was nice talking to you. Hope to hear from you soon!

A little more please

Okay, so apparently I have gray so tough it will not be overcome by something so simple as hair color! I decided to color my hair last night (after two people whose opinions I trust because they are very upfront said "yea, you should") and do you think my gray got colored? Oh, it wasn't having any of that. Oh no, still hanging out, although less noticeable, I will admit.

So I color my hair last night and check out my horoscope today:
You are feeling extremely good today, and boy oh boy, does it show! Your intense positive energy is amplifying your sex appeal. You are getting noticed in a way you may have never have been noticed before. Expect double takes and slack jaws wherever you go. Are you wearing a new cologne? Did you get a new haircut? Just get your teeth whitened? Whatever physical change you have recently made for yourself is working wonders, so just keep on doing it!

Ha ha too much! I don't even do horoscopes but I read it because it is there on My Yahoo!

Maybe my husband will want to go to dinner or something. With me AND my gray!

applause please

My daughter made it into the Senate at Fullerton college. Yeah Krystal! You rock! Want to find out what is going on in Senate girls head? Then click here!

Check out the new video

I swear I laugh EVERY time I see it!

Next Blog

Often when I have little to do and I am not checking on my Sims, I hit next blog. Over and over "next blog". Here is what I find. There are many blogs out there in other languages, that is so cool. I remember coming across one months ago that was in, I think, Japanese. The song she had on there was so beautiful. I commented on her blog and said I couldn't read it or understand the words of the song, but it was beautiful. She actually e-mailed me back.

Some people put music on their blogs. Usually I can't hear it because they use Windows Media Player. As I am using a far superior Macintosh, I am probably saved from listening to something I don't like anyway. (although frankly I have no idea, I might be missing something I love). Don't even get me started on those cell phones that you have to hear someone else's idea of music instead of a ring. Bring back the ring, please!

Sometimes you come across some not so nice sites, that's right, porn! Isn't anything safe? I am looking for someone out there whose blog might peek my interest and whamo, boobs! Now, my computer is sitting on the counter that separates the kitchen and the dining room. Since I do have four children, it is guaranteed that someone is walking by at some point at any time. That is nothing I want them to see. Can't these people confine these sites to sites you would expect to see something like that?

Also, people like to put pictures up. I put pictures up. I like looking at other people's photos (just not the above mentioned). More people are using Slide. The thing is, they will usually put quite a few of these on the current blog page. This causes the page to take a while to load. So while I might want to view the photos, I don't want to sit her waiting for them to load. Unless of course it is one of my regularly viewed blog pages.

There are my insights of "Next blog". You can now empty your mind of anything you read here as it is not worth keeping. Well, except for bringing back the ring!

A trip to the zoo

Krystal had some extra credit she needed to do for her Anthro class so we went to the Santa Ana zoo to check out the monkeys.
(A little tid bit, the Santa Ana zoo has to have 50 monkeys at all times). This is a pic of Siobhan and Diego with a monkey.

We had a great time, the whole family went. As usual, we found it was only a little bit more money to get a membership, which we did. We will be able to go back through the year for free as well as discounts to many other zoos.

So many emotions

Today marks two years since my dad passed away. I won't say things are better, but they are...more distant I guess. I still break down and cry for seemingly no reason. I still have to push the emotions down sometimes. Right now is not a good time.

My life long friends dad is going to have a triple by-pass. I can't tell you the emotions that brought up, for both her and I. Our dads worked together many, many years ago. That is how we became friends. We both started out in CA, moved to Tenn. and back to CA. She has since moved back to Tenn. Doesn't matter, our bond is tight! I pray for her dad and hope you will as well.

A friend of mine just found out that her son, three years old, has leukemia. My dad died from a form of leukemia. Her son is only THREE! I can not imagine the pain and fright she is experiencing right now. More prayers please.

I think the thing of it is, there is nothing I can do. I can pray. I can continue to raise money for LLS but I can't do ANYTHING. I can't make Melissa's dad get better. I can't cure my friend's son. I can't bring my dad back. What do we DO?

I want to again, thank my wonderful husband. He has been there or not been there, depending on what I need. He general knows if I am off crying, that it is because I miss my dad. He says I need to talk about him more so the little one's don't forget. I try, but it is so hard. I loved my dad so much. I know most everyone loves their parents. I always had a special bond with my father. He was not perfect, but he was perfect for me!

I miss you Daddy! I miss you so much.

Could it be so?

Okay, as you probably know, my faith in Weatherman is nil. Nada, zip, zilch. They stink! Although they are saying it just might rain Thursday or Friday. Oh gosh, I hope so. I am off Thursday. It would be ideal. Hope with the little man, a good book and rain. Come on rain!

Wii fun

Diego giving his all playing Carnival on the Wii. We finally found a game the little one's can actually play. He was so funny. He uses his whole body when all the has to do is move the wiimote! Too cute!

Last night on my business trip

and to be honest, I wish my husband were with me. Didn't think I would miss him this much.

Ahhh, one more night in this lovely hotel room. Big bed. Tv all to myself. Bath. Not much else needed.

Tomorrow I will see my family. Five days. Longest time yet (except for when Eric and I went to Europe for 3 and a half weeks) but Siobhan and Diego weren't here yet. How long until the kids make me mad once I am home? Bets anyone?

Dinner alone

Eating dinner alone, I noticed more things that I might not have otherwise. I was sitting there enjoying my book and I saw at least at 2 other tables, a mom and daughter and a two friends having dinner. At each of those tables one person was on the phone for at least 10-15 minutes. Why?

Why go to dinner with someone and then sit there with them on the phone. How rude is that? The other person is just sitting there and looking around. I kept thinking, you have such little time in life, if you made the effort to go out, can't you at least "talk" to the person you are with? Especially when there is no one else there for that other person to talk to.

I think cell phones are great. You can be reached anywhere and get what you need when you need it. Just the same, you don't HAVE to answer. You can say "Can I call you back?". Ahhh, I am just venting...

still tired

How is that? I am by myself in a HUGE comfortable bed yet I wake up tired. I have been waking up a few times a night but that is pretty usual. Arrgghhh is it 7 am ALREADY? Everyone keeps telling me that this hotel has a great (free) breakfast but I am NOT a morning person. How could I possible get up early enough to get ready and sit down and eat? I can't!

Work has been great. Earned my keep yesterday. Today is Wednesday, I will be leaving Friday. I miss my kids and I miss my husband but I am still enjoying sitting in this big room alone doing nothing! I imagine by Friday I will be SO ready to go home!

Siobhan has Open House tonight at school and she told her teacher I was out of town. Her teacher told her for me to come see her when I get back. I asked Eric "Am I a single parent now?". Funny. Siobhan said she wanted us both to go. Where do kids come up with this stuff? Too much!

Well, it is almost 7:30, I GUESS I should be gettting ready instead of sitting here in my pj's watching the Daily Show.

Have a good day people!

my horoscope for today

How funny is this? I am away on business and this is what they tell me?!

While things in your professional life are coming together quite nicely right now, not everything will be going as smoothly in your home life. This will definitely not be an easy day in terms of keeping that promise you made. You need more time to devote to this issue, so if you can, reschedule your day so that you can pay attention to the people who really matter. You don't have to address a certain issue or accomplish a specific goal -- you just need to spend more time with your family


Too much!

Yuba- day one

Thanks again Yolanda for picking me up and dropping me off at 6am! The flight was good but VERY full, so not so comfortable. I got the rental car right away, it was a Grand Prix, whatever. I got a little lost picking the right fwy to find the hwy I needed but I was early so it was okay.

I got to the office and we went to lunch, Who wouldn't love that schedule? We did some work and I left about 3:30, TIRED! I went to Target to get a few things I forgot, like a toothbrush. I decided to just pick up dinner because I wanted to relax. I video chatted with the kids and took a nice long hot bath. I read and enjoyed sleeping in this big HUGE comfy bed. I slept well.

I got to hear my beautiful babies voices this morning. You have to love the internet. All things possible.

Gotta go get ready for day two. Oh I had to stop yesterday while a chicken and rooster got out of the road. I couldn't believe it. I almost took a picture!

ta-ta

It is 5:30AM and not only am I ready to go, I have said my good-byes and am blogging. My friend Yolanda should be here any minute to take me to the airport. I bet she is regretting offering about right now, ha ha.

Siobhan said she thought I was leaving in the morning. I told her it was morning the sun just isn't awake yet. My friend Cheryl gets up at this time every morning so she can do her crosswords before work. I thought it before, now I know, Cheryl you are crazy!

Family, I will miss you SO much!

Getting ready to depart

Friday night our softball game was postponed until next week (which I will not be able to make). So we enjoyed an evening home. Yesterday Krystal and her friend made posters. They are trying to run for Senate at their college. We had a LA Galaxy game last night. They actually won 3-1. Without Beckham or Donovan. Oh and UCLA won too!

I have to pack today. I am going to ask my friend Yolanda if she will drop me off at the airport tomorrow about 6am. Think I owe her lunch? ha ha We don't want to leave the car at the airport for 5 days. Eric will be using my van and sometimes his car has this thing about not starting when it has been sitting for about 3 days.

I am really going to miss my babies. Oh and Eric, K and B too. Just not as much!

It has cooled off so much since last week. The nights are wonderful! I don't know what Yuba is going to be like, probably HOT! I will make sure the ac in my hotel room is UP all the way!

A sad farewell

I am not a big fan of opera but it doesn't take much to realize when someone is amazing. Pavarotti passed away today at age 71 of pancreatic cancer. You know heaven is filled with even more beautiful music now!

boo

A little background. My good friends and family will vouch for me here. I am not a scary cat, an easily frightened person, or scared easily. As a matter of fact, my husband often spends time trying to scare me around the house. I love when he actually does, which isn't often. If I hear a noise at night, I don't wake my husband, I get up and see what it is. The worst is not knowing, so I might as well just figure out what it is.

One may not have to do with the other. This month is September. The month my father passed away. Two years ago in a couple of weeks. The other night I felt the tears coming. I fought them off as I often do. I was in bed and ready to sleep, but if I turn off the lights and try to go to sleep, the thoughts will come. I fell asleep with the lights on.

The night before last my husband went to bed before me (not usual). I went to bed and laid down and I swear I thought I saw someone standing in the hallway. My heart was beating fast! I thought "Oh my God, there is someone there!". This is NOT normal for me.

Last night we went to bed at the same time. I was unable to go to sleep. Thoughts might come. I got up and watched a little tv. When I went back to bed I turned over and actually reached out because I thought something was standing right there. I was scared. I didn't want to go to sleep but knew there was nothing to really worry about, right?!

I thought a little bit and said "Dad, if that is you, you are freaking me out, stop it". Of course, I don't really think it is my dad. He would be wherever the tv is.

Is Eric keeping these things away since he is usually up when I go to bed? Is it because my body realized before my head that it is September? Could it be my dad? Could it be I am going crazy? Could it be I just need more sleep?

Whatever it is is freaking me out! I am not sleeping well. Ahh, we shall see..

Weekend Update

Last night I took three of my friends (Yolanda, Natalie and Stephanie) to a Galaxy game. We had a good time. They were so excited to see Beckham. He wasn't playing but was seated behind us in the players booth. Stephanie said it was the best day of her whole life. ha ha. They lost but we will still had fun hanging out.

It is freaking hot again today. I went to the store earlier today and the probably 45 second walk from the store to the car, YIKES! Thank God, again that we had central ac put in!

Tonight we are going to a German place where they have food, music and lots of BEER! Some of our friends and cousins will be there as well. I don't like beer but it is still fun. They have shopping and desert and hopefully kettle corn! yum yum

I love the long weekends! So nice to have one more day off.

Next week (10th) I leave for 5 days for work. I will be heading to our Yuba office again. I will go on Monday and come back Friday. I asked Eric if he will miss me, he said on Thursday. NICE! He lies anyway. It will be hard being away from the kids for so long but it will be nice at the same time. This is my third trip in a year and I am pretty sure that I will have everyone trained by the end of this one so I don't foresee another visit in the future.

Kinder Update

First day of school she did not cry. I did not either. Eric didn't either. I think we were so worried about her, she WAS nervous. When I went to pick her up, she ran out and couldn't remember a thing she did. (Typical!) She did get a BIG ice cream afterwards!
Second day she was worried about getting there late. She was fine.
Today, ah the third day. Did NOT want me to leave. What is it about a few days later. Like they figured out this is a day to day occurrence and she is going to have to do it again. There was one kid crying like crazy with his head down on his desk. Another girl was crying in the back of the room. Siobhan's eyes were filled with tears, "just stay", "why do you have to leave?". Gosh my heart was breaking!

She will use after school care beginning next week. I am NOT sure how that is going to over. I think she understands how it is going to work now but...

Siobhan's first day at school

Getting ready to leave

to take Siobhan to school. A few butterflies in the belly. I actually am looking forward to picking her up more than dropping her off. She will be able to tell me all about her day!

Frik it is hot

Heat! Hot! Ow! It has been about 97 this week. Stay inside people!

Siobhan starts Kindergarten tomorrow. We went to her school last night for a tour! We visited her classroom (she wanted to know why there was no potty in there), the Science room, the computer room, the library and where she will eat lunch and play.

She said "Why are there crosses everywhere?" I laughed and told her it is because she is going to Catholic school and she will learn about Jesus. She thought a minute and nodded her head like this answer was good for her.

Tomorrow I will cry. I am sure Eric will have a picture or two I can post.

Good luck big girl!

"You need to grow up. The fact that you don't realize that you need to grow up shows how much you really need too".
-Diane Jasso

Softball

We didn't do too bad last night. We lost 12-9. I am sure that was our closest game yet. Most of our players weren't even there! I hurt my back though. In a weird spot. I was trying to kill that ball. Good hit and I just barely missed making it to first. Grrrr

Only one more game!

Hey I added a new link

I have three brothers. All of them are older than me. (Meaning I am the only girl AND the youngest). The newest link is my middle brother, David's blog. Check it out!

Pictures from Mexico

Beautiful little girl!
Fun in the pool
Daddy and his little girl!
All of us enjoying lunch in Ensenada

These are the first two pictures I put on Flickr!

Siobhan and Diego August 2004

Yummy tacos from Mexico

Tell me you don't want to try it

A newly emerged "fish spa" is becoming fashionable in many hot spring resorts, and has attracted even more customers, all curious about this peculiar treatment.

At such a spa, many Garra Rufa, a type of small tropical fish, also nicknamed Chinchin Yu, nibble fish or simply doctor fish, are put in hot springs. As they can live and swim freely in at least 43-degree-hot waters, they are naturally used for the treatment of skin diseases in such spas.

When placed in the spa, these fish can feed themselves on the dead cells of the human body, since they only consume such cells, leaving the healthy skin of the human body to grow. The whole process is reportedly free of pain. It won't hurt and the bather might feel a pleasant tingling on his or her skin.
Link

Huh? What? Oh me?

Where have I been? Oh, just got back from Mexico! Great time! Great sun, drinks, food, drinks, shopping, did I mention drinks! Nothing like sitting by the pool sipping a nice big drink out of a pineapple while the little one's swim around. Siobhan will make friends with anyone. I am sure she held conversations with at least 3 girls who don't speak English. She doesn't seem to mind. She will boss them around just the same.

Enjoyed a nice lobster dinner. Okay, let me tell you the deal we get. All you can eat rice, beans, guacamole, salsa, homemade flour tortillas, a free margarita with a shot and 5 lobster half's for $15.00. We had three orders and were stuffed! Yummy!

Okay so I lost the hotel room key. I actually found it the first place I looked for it, at the liquor store. Kinda ruined the night as Eric was mad I lost the key, but well, I found it so no harm done.

We rented and drove ATV's (four wheelers) while we were there. Krystal got stuck and ran out of gas. Siobhan enjoyed it. Diego LOVED it! He kept telling Eric "Faster Daddy, faster!". That was fun and something we hadn't done before.

We didn't get to do too much shopping. We saw a really big rocking chair that we might pick up next time. Really big and so comfortable!

I will post pictures later. I got the new Sims expansion pack. I hear them calling my name!

Happy 18th Birthday

Well, she has gone from little to grown up. When the hell did that happen? 18 years old today. I can't believe it. Such a beautiful, talented, loving and happy girl. Now she is a college student with dreams all her own. At least I can say with my whole heart that we did a GREAT job with this one! God bless you sweetheart, enjoy your day!

Nan sent this hat from Thailand for Diego. He wears it everywhere. People love it!

To my love

It is our 7th wedding anniversary today. We have been together 14 years. Most days of the week I realize how much I love my husband. Of course, there are always the hum drum days, but I LOVE him. I am lucky. We are lucky. I know that. My husband is all I have ever been looking for. He is full of love and kindness. He is man with emotion. He shares with me and our children verbally and physically how much he loves us. He is supportive of everything I want for myself. I know I am a hard person to live with, yet we fit just fine.

He supported me emotionally and helped out with the kids while I was going to school. He has supported me through finding the right job and helps me know he will be there for me. I work for a Non Profit and although the money I make now is okay, I could certainly be making a lot more somewhere else. Luckily for us, it is okay and we both feel that you should LOVE what you do.

We agree on how we are raising the kids. We fight about money. We kiss and hug. We both still get teary eyed when we talk about the kids. He fills my heart and my head. We want the same things from life. He has been my life. For seven married years I have been lucky enough to call myself his wife.

My love is yours always Eric. You allow me to be me. You support me. You comfort me. You have given me the most beautiful children inside and out. We have and continue to raise some wonderful children. God really blessed me with you!

Happy Anniversary.

Big girl

Siobhan had her last day at Childtime (preschool) yesterday. She has been there three years. Man, what an emotional day! She took a cake for her class and one of those BIG cookies that said "Siobhan's last day". She gave all the teachers a really cute angel in a heart that her Nana got for her to give out. She gave her two teachers a note that she did all by herself (plus a little gift card from mom and dad).
One of her teachers made her a really cool book with pictures from the last year or so. What a keepsake. She list the children's names and there were some really great pictures. She had the kids sign it (like a yearbook) and the teachers as well. Her teacher wrote something so sweet I started crying.
Her other teacher gave her a Hello Kitty jewelry box that she can decorate. She will have a great time doing that.
One of her friends gave her a High School Musical Doll. Yikes if I have to hear that thing sing ONE more time!
She got a few cards from her friends.
The Director and Ass. Director gave her some school supplies.

Wow. I know she is an amazing little girl, but it is so heartwarming to see that other people see it too!

Three weeks of hanging around with Nana. Kindergarten starts at the end of this month. We still have to order her uniforms and go supply shopping. They have a very detailed list of what she needs to bring. Very particular with the shoes too. hee hee she will be so cute though!

I got an out

That's right. Caught a pop up fly ball. Anyone could have caught it, but I did. Woo hoo, I earned the right to play. ha ha

I always hit the ball but if I had kept running I would have made it on base tonight. Grr, always keep running, you never know!

Still, we were off our game but it was fun!

Honey, can I have this?

Pretty please?

Oh yeah

Saturday Siobhan had her last dance class for the summer, which we missed. Her dance studio is great because they have all kinds of different types of dance for everyone, they are very inexpensive but man they LACK serious communication. Oh well.

I came home on Saturday to Bradley cleaning the garage (we have a nightmare garage, just like Dad's!) and Krystal painting in the kitchen. Oh man, really what more could you want. Kids doing ALL the work. Ideal!

There is so much work to be done, but it will get done. Slowly.

Missed two day of work this past week due to having the stomach flu. Man, I was so behind. I am looking forward to tomorrow to catch up. I LOVE my job!

Eric and I are trying to figure out when to take a few days to go Mexico in the next couple of weeks. Krystal will already be there so it will just be the rest of us. Any one else want to go?

The Pediatric GI thinks Siobhan might have acid reflux. I am not sold on that. They are running all kinds of test. There is a three day poop thing we are doing at home. Talk about fun! I guess we have to wait and see. Still, doesn't seem to account for the fact that the x-ray shows a lot of poop in her belly.

Anyway, in the background in the movie "Like is Beautiful" (La Vita è bella). That movie is all about love. Amazing!

I say it again

If babies came out as teenagers, couples would only have ONE baby!

CHECK OUT THE POLL I ADDED

Over there on the right! No, your other right! ---------------->
It will change every week. ------------->
Take it! ------------------------------------------------------->

hungry?

Last night Eric and I went out to dinner. We went to Amazon BBQ which is a Brazilian BBQ restaurant. You pay a set price (in this case $25.95 per person), there is a salad bar with lots of goodies (shrimp, all kinds of salads, chicken, onion rings, etc) and they bring by the meat for you. There is a color coded thing on your table. Green-bring the meat. Red-give me a break. ha ha I didn't get to try the alligator. I would have tried it, at least that is what I tell myself. It was GOOD meat too. All of it. Man, you could really eat your fill. It would be a great place to go if you plan to hang out a while.

Obviously we left the kids at home but they might get to go next time.