A Day Off

I am off today because I wasn't sure how I was going to feel and thankfully I feel great! I am taking the kids into my work so everyone can see how gosh darn cute they are. I will stop by Eric's work too. Then we are going to go to Old Navy and hope I can get the kids some school clothes without going broke! Maybe we will even have lunch!

I am going back to work tomorrow but it is nice to be off just randomly mid week, plus Monday off. Yeah!

Will the fun never end?

I am about to leave to have an Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (say that three times fast!). It seems no big deal. They will put a flexible tube through my mouth into the Upper Digestive Tract. They can see why I have a dilated bile duct and if anything else is going on. I have severe stomach cramps most times after I eat. Ever since I had that darn gallbladder removed. I know they will come to find out that it is VERY important and you can't live without it (like your heart). hee hee

Wish me luck!

soccer, will it ever end?

Two games yesterday and it was hotter than, well hotter than 98 degrees in the shade. Today, he had one at 10am, we figured it wouldn't be too bad since there was at least a little breeze. For the most part we were okay. When Bradley's game ended at 11:45 (we won!) they told us we needed to be back at 1:45pm. GREAT! It is 1:30 now and I just bet it is going to be wonderfully comfortable out there. I would like to remind everyone that soccer season hasn't even started yet. Lord help us!

Saturday, what fun!

We are having a garage sale today. Bradley has two soccer games. My brother is having a party (that I am going to TRY to get to). Remember when you used to spend Saturday in front of the TV all day?

okay Andrea, I'll play

The Last....

Last Cigarette: never, gross!
Last Alcoholic Drink: too long ago, last night! (Might have one tonight to make up for waiting so long)
Last Car Ride: 2 hours ago, dropped Bradley off at soccer practice (again!) Eric's picking him up now.
Last Hug: moments ago, Siobhan on the couch
Last Time You Cried: 2 days ago when I saw my sad friend at work
Last Library Book: who knows!
Last book bought: Frankenstein by Dean Koontz
Last Book Read: Currently, The Experiment
Last Movie Seen in Theatres: A Day Without a Mexican
Last Movie Rented: Born Into Brothels
Last Cuss Word Uttered: ha ha, with my mouth, could have been anything!
Last Beverage Drank: water
Last Food Consumed: M&M's (right now!, it WAS a fundraiser though)
Last Crush: George Stephanopoulos
Last Phone Call: work, ick!
Last E-mail you wrote: to my mom to say "hi, and I love you"
Last TV Show Watched: Daily Show
Last band you saw: Keb' Mo
Last Time Showered: 7:30am this morning
Last Shoes Worn: Dr. Martins
Last CD Played: JOURNEY
Last Item Bought: gas (of course!)
Last Annoyance: Krystal didn't wash ALL the dishes like I asked
Last Disappointment: myself, always!
Last Soda Drank: Coke
Last Words Spoken: "How do you spell pistachio?"
Last Ice Cream Eaten: pistachio nut
Last Webpage Visited: Andrea's blog

A safe return

Ellen is a very good friend of mine and her boyfriend is leaving for Iraq tomorrow for the second time. I would just like to take a minute and say that although I totally disagree that he (or anyone) is going to Iraq, I hope for a fast and safe return. My thoughts and prayers will be with you everyday you are gone. I am dreading the sadness in Ellen's eyes until your return. Please be safe Preston and return home real soon. You WILL be missed!

One last day to relax

Okay, yeah, I had to work yesterday but we are not counting that. Today is our last day to relax. We have watched a lot of home movie DVD's (gone are the days of putting out the lights, closing the curtains and running the projector). Letting the kids run around and play. I have been reading (although I DID was some dishes), we are finishing up the laundry and getting ready to return to the real world.

Work? What the hell is that? hee hee. I hope to have the pictures from our trip up soon. I was just thinking about when we went to Mexico last year with Nan. I sure do miss her.

Hope everyone enjoys the rest of today! Eat a BIG Sunday dinner!

Just a couple of teasers!

Here is a picture of the pool from our room. Man, look at that ocean!












This is a picture of Siobhan and Bradley enjoying a drink at the New Port Beach Hotel by the pool.

Mexico no mas

We are back. We looked at the property and what a view! It is amazing. A normal person would never be able to afford a view like that here. The lot is 200 square meters and the asking price is $45,000. There are two lots next to each other but even if we wanted to, that is a lot of money.

We headed to the Estero Beach Hotel. We stopped at the fish market and had some wonderful fish tacos (carne asada for Siobhan). We all ate until we could eat no more. We had plenty of drinks and the bill was a grand total of $23.00.

When we arrived at the hotel, it was nice. We took lots of pictures of everything ( I will post later) and we were pleased. The room was average (two queen beds, TV on the dresser, table and chair) it had a little balcony with two chairs and a table. We had to watch Diego because he could have slipped between and fallen.

The pool was cool (minus all the children), it was oddly shaped. It had two jacuzzi's and (my favorite) a swim up bar. I have never been to one, and I have to say it gets two thumbs up. We had a few drinks (you had to pay cash, how stupid is that?). Right before we leave I didn't know what kind of drink to have so Francisco said he would make me a California Iced Tea. Well, let me tell you, that thing has NOTHING in common with any tea I know. It tasted great and I was feeling it before I even finished. Of course I ordered one more (the bar WAS closing) but I only finished about half of it. We left the hotel to go get something to eat, bouncing around on the street, to finally decide where we would eat. As soon as Eric pulls over, I hop out of the car and let it go. Threw up right there in front of the guy selling watermelons (of course we bought one at one dollar). But man did I feel better. I ate three tacos, most of a tortas AND had ice cream afterwards! That damn drink, it was the devil (can't wait to have one again!)

The kids went swimming again while Eric fell asleep on the balcony and Siobhan and I fell asleep telling stories. Thursday we left the hotel and did some shopping and had lunch in Ensanada. Siobhan bought this Dora cape (wait until you see the photos) we are still laughing at it. We tried to look at one other property but couldn't find it. We had a very long ride home, and a jackass at the border (yeah, I said it, jackass!) But we had one hell of a time.

Hold on to your hats, we are in for a bumpy ride

I am writing from Mexico! We had a hell of a trip already. Bradley's soccer games took up all day Saturday and we arrived about 10pm. We checked in, got the crib we ordered and went right to bed. (Of course Eric and I went down to the bar for a drink first).

Sunday proved to be a good day in the beginning. We ate at the hotel buffet, swam at the pool, ate tacos and had LOTS of drinks. Wow, what a day. After cleaning up we decided to go have a nice BIG lobster dinner. WE piled in the car, and what the hell, the car wouldn't start. It wasn't giving anything at all. We walked over and had our lobster dinner but of course all we could think of is what we were going to do about the car. We went back to the hotel and we didn't sleep so well worried about how and IF we were going to get home.

On Monday we were invited over to our friend Oscar's house to meet his family and enjoy some shrimp ceviche (yummy). His kids were cute, (he has a one month little girl and three boys), his wife was really sweet. We enjoyed some wonderful food and even better company. Oscar brought us back to the hotel and had a guy meet us there to look at the car. He touched it, I started it and what do you know, it worked.

We swam, had dinner at the hotel, more drinks. Today we are shopping and looking for propery to buy. Wish us luck. By the way, they charge a buck for 15 minutes on the internet here in this internet cafe. hee hee, oh how I hope we can afford it!

say goodbye Diane

Goodbye Diane. Yee Haw, we are out of here. Everything is packed and most of it in the car. Two soccer games and we are ready to relax and enjoy.

I special thanks to Nick for staying at the house and keeping good care of the dogs (and making sure none of you hoodlums come and take my Doogie Howser MD DVd's). hee hee

What? You are thinking of the Jasso's? Then imagine them as they are, by the pool. Eating tacos, Eric with a margarita and Diane with a pina colada in a pineapple so big she needs two hands to hold it. Krystal, Bradley, Siobhan and Diego in the pool no doubt!

See you!

Tuesday Morning, no not the store

Hello everyone. Just thought I'd pop a quick hello. See how everyone's day is going. My alarm didn't go off this morning, so no training for me! I have wonderful left over's from Krystal's birthday dinner last night to enjoy for lunch. No soccer this week (at night anyway, so I feel like the whole week is a vacation (not really though!).

I hope I might get my car back today. At least I have a loaner car, otherwise, we would be going nuts with only one car. I would make Eric get the Nova out and running. Hee hee!

Have a great day everyone!

A sad farewell

Peter Jennings passed away. I will miss having him tell me the world news. I loved watching him. I loved his voice and his handsome face. Mostly I loved the way he would tell the news. I will miss his smile after something amusing at the end of the show. Mr. Jennings, you will live in our hearts and minds forever!

Aug. 8th

Happy 16th Birthday Krystal. Dang, I can't believe you are that old. How can I be a mother of a 16 year old. Clearly something is wrong here!

I love you mucho!

here kitty, kitty, kitty

yesterday when I was walking Siobhan to preschool we passed a cat. I could smell this cat about 10 feet away. It was curled up and looked to be sleeping (with a few flies on it). It was obviously dead. Siobhan said "Look mom a kitty", I was rushing her along, telling her that the kitty was sleeping. Poor baby. We were almost to her school and she said "Mommy, I smell that kitty again!"

Classic!

Sixteen Candles

No, not the movie, as great as it was (I put it on Netflix for Krystal).

Krystal will be 16 on Monday. August 8th. Wow! Do you know how old that makes me?! (no comment, thank you!)

I can't believe. My first baby, all of sixteen years.....I think I have to go cry now.

Things really suck sometimes

I took my car this morning for an oil change. Come to find out it needs a new fan. The fan won't be in until Monday of course, so I have no van over the weekend. (Not to mention getting back and forth to work tomorrow, am I feeling ill?) And what next? Eric's car starts making a noise on the way home. Oh when it rains it pours (we could use some rain here!).

Well, if nothing else at least Krystal is done with summer school. No more dropping her off. (Thank goodness since I have no car!)

Bradley starts soccer camp next week, great! (Looks like he might spend Sunday night at my Dad's, you don't mind do you Dad?!) hee hee

Our vacation is set

Only a short one, but a well needed one!
Bradley has two soccer games on Saturday, after the last one we will be heading to New Port Beach Hotel, our favorite spot. We will be there until Wednesday and then we will head to Estero Beach Hotel, where I have never been but Eric stayed there many times but it was years ago. We will stay there two nights and come back home Friday (I have to work Saturday).

I can't wait. Relaxing by the pool, at the beach, eating lobster, tacos, LOTS of drinks. Wow! We will also be looking for property while we are there. Oh, what a vacation it will be. So close and yet a world away!

cold as ice

We took Siobhan to ballet this afternoon. We were talking to a guy who just happened to be the teacher for the Hip Hop class. He mentioned that there are no classes the month of August. That's nice. We are almost ready to leave and we hadn't heard this, not once. She has to wait a whole month.

She was a bit complaining after class and she fell asleep as soon as we got in the car. Eric and I went and bought some flagstone for the back, she slept the whole time. When we got home, what did Siobhan have with her, a FEVER. Great!

We were going to take her to dinner to see her Nino play. It is his last weekend for who knows how long. Oh well, poor baby. She came home after the car nap and slept another three and a half hours. (Eric and I napped with her being the wonderful parents that we are!)

Feel better baby!

It's about..

...21 weeks to Christmas. Yikes!

FRIDAY

It is Friday. Eric has his flex day. Krystal has no summer school today. We have NO soccer this weekend. What? A weekend to do whatever we want? What will that be like?

We still need to go look at stone for the patio. Siobhan has ballet tomorrow. There are a few other things to do, but we don't HAVE to be anywhere. Oh joy!

Of course, our cars are dirty, the dogs need a bath, lots of laundry to do, clean our room, take the cans and bottles, grocery shopping.. but still, joy!

Points, what points?

Didn't do so well at WW last night. So I decided I would start walking Cucui in the morning. So, from now on, every morning that I go to to work, I will be up at 6 and go for a walk. I used to do it with Eran and it was great, I wish I had never stopped (probably would be a size 4 by now, HA HA). Counting points again. It has been so long since I actually counted points, I couldn't even remember how many I get. How sad it that? Wish me luck!

1pm Galaxy game

Man, was it hot! Luckily little Diego and I found a nice seat in the shade. We were in the sun about 15 minutes, even with tons of sunscreen, we knew he would burn.
So, the Galaxy lost, 1-0. Damn it!

My birthday

Okay, it was earlier this week but I have been busy. It was great. My desk was decorated completely (thanks Vicky) I felt so sorry for the cleaning guys. I got a really cool frame, purse, wallet and goodies from Ellen and Vicky. ( The purse is big enough to hold my check book, I like to travel small!). Natalie got me movie tickets (Eric and I will be enjoying those!). Beth got me some wine coolers (yum yum), cups and a really cool thing I hung from my car mirror. Michelle gave me a new book (I can NEVER have enough). Lunch was great with Ellen, Natalie, Lourdes and Elisha. (Thanks for lunch Lordis!)

When I got home, I had roses from Eric (beautiful!) and Eric and the kids gave me a new addition to our family, Henry. (I will post a photo real soon!). I took Henry to work yesterday and everyone loved him. They wanted to touch and play with him. He isn't a toy you know. I showed Henry off real good. He was by my side all day. I even held his hand on the drive to work.

I had a great birthday! Thanks everyone!

My Night Out

On Thursday we had a party for a friend at work who is moving to Mississippi. After work we headed to happy hour. I had a great time (except the air wasn't working well and it was sooo hot in there and the service sucked!) but other than that it was great. Lots of drinks, laughter and talking.

Eric and I traded cars after he got off work because he was going to pick up Siobhan from preschool. On the way home someone ran into the back of my car. It didn't seem bad at first, just the bumper and one light. No big deal. Yesterday for some reason I thought to try the back door, and .... it won't open. I know we will have to replace the whole back door. I have a VW Eurovan, it isn't going to be cheap. They didn't make that many, they aren't making them anymore. oh well, I am just so glad Eric is okay, when I think what could have happened, who cares about the car.

I am thinking of putting together a Happy Hour once a month for work. Maybe somewhere different each month, that would be cool. Everyone wants a happy hour!

LA Galaxy vs Real Madrid

Not a bad game. I think the Galaxy did really well. Madrid won 2-0. I am sure many people thought the score would be worse. Not bad Galaxy, not bad!

ONE, The campaign to make poverty history

It only takes a moment to sign up, educate yourself. Click here!

aqua...aqua... everywhere

Last night I put in a load of laundry and what do you know? Water everywhere!

So this morning I called for a repair man to come to the house, we took Siobhan to ballet and raced home. Of course he comes about an hour later. We spent $25.00 for him to tell us there is a hole in the tub. So, off we go to Howard's. We decided we would buy a stove as well. We picked the washer, and moseyed over to the stoves. After going back and forth over a few different ones, we decided. Of course the model we wanted was not in stock. Isn't that always the way. Since it would be another delivery fee, we don't need one now and it wasn't on sale, we decided to wait.

Now, I am off to the market. Somehow having two teenagers in the house, all the food is gone. I hope Siobhan doesn't want more Princess cereal. (ha ha)

MRI? Not for me, says I

Okay, today I went for my MRCP (MRI) and I have to say, I think I could have done without it. I knew it was going to be confining. That a lot of people have a problem with it. I thought I would do okay. If I tilted my head just so, I could see a little bit of the room (which made me feel better). But I had NO idea how loud it was going to be. I mean, yeah they gave me ear plugs, but what good did those do? I had to pull one out so I could hear the guy talking to me. It was so loud. I was fine, it was over. I was getting dressed and all I could think was, "I am going to throw up". I knew I would be okay since I hadn't eaten in 14 hours, but still.

So, I feel okay now. My neck is stiff (from trying to see?), and I am glad it is over. I hope if I ever need another one that is for my leg or something. So I won't have to go so far into that thing. And just when you think you are all the way in, they move you in another inch, and then another inch. auuugggghhhhhh

Want to see some new pics? Click here!

Little D

Eric and I took Diego for his 12 month check up the other day. He is 30.5 inches tall. He weighs 21.12 pounds. When I put him on the scale, the nurse said, that can't be right. Put him back on and move your hands right away. Well, there he was, 21.12.

He is doing well. We are still concerned about his hip/leg. The doctor said to wait two months and they would do more testing then if it still seemed to be going out to the side instead of in front. He walks fine, but you can tell that he doesn't walk like he should.

Other than that, he is doing well. All over the house, starting to walk a bit faster although not quite running yet. He loves to get Siobhan's toys and then take off with them. He is so cute! I will be posting some pictures soon.

I love Jack, 93.1FM, that is

My husband does not like this station. I love it. They play everything. See unlike Eric, I have ADD. So I love hearing something that is nothing like what was on before. I want to be surprised by what comes up next. I mean, I have never heard such a range of artist in my life (except for random on my iPod!).

I know the station has no DJ's, which kinds sucks for DJ's. I usually don't want to hear people talking (I listen to the radio ALL day at work, day after day!), and it is nice to finally find a station that will play something I want to hear and haven't heard the previous day.

It is a nice change, and I like it! I think it is about time.

I miss the 80's

Last night, on the radio, I heard "Dancin' in the sheets". ( I can hear Eric now, "you should have changed the station"). Hee hee, I haven't heard that song in soooo long. I have to admit I toyed with the idea of looking on iTunes for it. I didn't. But I thought about it.

just because it is the weekend, it doesn't mean you can relax

Bradley has two soccer games today (has to be there at 8am). Siobhan starts ballet today (how cute is THAT going to be!) and we have to be field people at the soccer field for three hours later in the day. Who knows what tomorrow holds, possible more soccer. Can we have a couple of clones please?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

We live in the desert, damn it

I am always telling people to conserve water. We do live in the desert. It isn't a never ending supply. I do my best. I turn the water off while I brush my teeth (well, to be perfectly honest, brush while in the shower). I turn the water off while washing dishes. I basically try NOT to waste water. So, what did I do last night? I left the front sprinklers on for ELEVEN hours! Nice. Great. (Not to mention, I am the one who pays the water bill!). I would like to say this is the first time, but I think I do it two to three times per year. I should have to go on one of those commercials where the animal is telling the person to conserve water. Maybe, I should have to dress up AS the animal.

Diego's 12 month check-up

We went yesterday, five shots. He was supposed to have blood taken too, but we are saving that for a different day. He is 30.5 inches long and 21.12 pounds. A little on the thin side (where did THAT come from) but he is doing well. (He isn't aware we are going to have to go back for the blood work) poor baby!

Baja bound..feels baja down

Eric and I are STILL looking for something in Mexico. He sent me some links to places we could buy right now, how depressing. If you want something really nice, already built and near the ocean, you are looking at at least $250,000.00. Well, WE are not looking to spend that much (as if that needed to be said). Why the hell didn't we buy 10 years ago when we started thinking about it.
My dream fades day after day. I mean, it isn't as if we are suddenly going to come into a lot of money. We can go down more for something nice but cheaper. But I want to be able to go away for the weekend too. Oh......

The Sims 2

I am in love. I decided to wait until I played a while before I wrote, and I am hooked. At first we didn't think my machine would allow me to play and Eric said I should just go buy another one. Somehow I just couldn't jusify buying a new computer so I could play the Sims 2 (although in all thruth, I might have IF it didn't play, but it does!). I have been very good about playing too. When I got The Sims, I played day and night. What family? I am doing much better this time (some 6 years later, ha ha).

So, I love it! I love the changes. I love the way it looks. I really love that my Sims get older. I haven't allowed one of them to become an elder, but it is only days away. You have to make them exercise. They tell you what makes them happy (as if I need more people letting me know what makes them happy!) I really enjoy it. Thanks Aspyr, you are the best!

ps, if anyone wants to know where I am, I am sitting in front of my computer, playing The Sims 2. (There probably is a Sim named after you too!)

I would like to say, yet again...

....that I am NOT meant to be a stay at home mom. I am on my second day home with sick little Diego and I would not have it any other way. At the same time, I feel another part of me pulling. The "I need people" part. I have called my husband TOO many times today, talked to Natalie a couple of times. At this point, I am hoping a tele-marketer might call.

Seriously, I give two thumbs up to the stay at home moms who make it work.

Para mi marido

Apenas deseo tomar esta ocasión le dejé saber te quiero. Usted me ha dado todo que nunca incluso sabía que deseé. Usted ha hecho mi resplandor entero de la vida con un amor nunca que terminaba que no sabía que tenía adentro de mí. Usted es mi compañero del alma. Usted hace diario un día brillante, feliz, cariñoso. Usted me ha dado niños hermosos y una vida cómoda sin se preocupa. Mi amor para usted crece con cada beso, cada abrazo, incluso cada llamada telefónica. Usted ha cambiado mi vida y soy agradecido y para a usted cada uno y diario. Usted es mi vida y puedo esperar solamente compartir tan muchos más años con usted. Te quiero Eric. ¡Usted me hace completo!

sleep? what sleep?

I have to admit I forgot what it is like to have a sick child. There is no sleeping at night. Actually Diego did fine, but that damn Tylenol only last four hours! So, like a good mommy, I set my alarm to go off every four hours. (There is NO way I would wake up on my own!)

So, I am home today. There is just something that aches if you can't be with your child when he is sick. Krystal is at summer school, Siobhan is at preschool, and Bradley is here with me. Of course I am going to have to go to the store to get MORE Tylenol, juice, and who knows what else. Still, there is nothing like holding a baby who is so big that you only get to hold him when they are sick. (It is the only time he will be still!)

yikes

When I got home today, I took one look at Diego and knew he wasn't feeling well. He had a temp of 103.4 when I finally gave up and just got some meds in him. He is doing much better now (about 4 hours later) and attempting to go to sleep. Poor little guy, I hate when kids don't feel well.

drummer boy

drummer boy, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Watch out Uncle Tony and Uncle Richard, this little boy is on your tails!

After dinner treat

mussles, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Eric and Krystal decided to make a little after dinner treat of mussels. Please, continue down and see Siobhan enjoy her share. She ate more than I did ( I am not too fond of the little fellows). hee hee

pre yummy

pre yummy, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here she is showing off her yummy treat before she ate the whole thing and went back for more.

yummy

yummy, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

I can't believe she actually ate it. She even ate more than one. Crazy!

Siobhan and her Nino Richard

Siobhan and her Nino Richard, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is a picture of Siobhan and her Nino Richard. Does she love him or what? We went to see him play at G. Billotas in Brea on Friday night. I would recommend going there, especially on Friday, Saturday or Sunday night when Richard is there with Lee Ferrell. Food is really great too!

None the wiser

The CT scan showed the bile duct is dialated ( but the GI Dr. said that shouldn't cause pain) all else seems fine. Auugghhh! So I am going to have a MRI done to see what they can see. Of course the MRI isn't for about 3 more weeks. What is three more weeks of pain?

Hee hee, thanks cousin for all your help! Thanks to the last Dr. I saw, he was great!

well...

...I went to the doctor yet again. I have had a pain since the gallbladder surgery and it has not gone away. Sometimes it hurts so much I can hardly walk. The doctor was great. He said he thinks I have gallstones in my liver. What? Figures! Tomorrow I go for a CT scan to find out what is what.

My Dad wants to know if I am shooting for a surgery per month, funny one Dad!

I will let you know...

Dog Park

Tonight Siobhan and I took Cucui to the dog park in Orange (corner of Yorba and E. Chapman). They two parts, one for big dogs and one for small dogs. I can't believe how many people were there, not to mention dogs! ha ha

It actually was pretty cool. They have plenty of balls around and there is fresh water with containers. Plenty of poop bags as well. (ick, but you must be a responsible dog owner!)

I plan to take her every Monday night while Bradley is at one of his (very) many soccer practices. Anyone want to join us?

Is this true or what?

Is this true or what?, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

I don't know where Eric found this, but he sent it to me, and it is funny or what? Please notice the little lines from the groom dragging his fingers. hee hee

This wasn't anything like our wedding. It wasn't!

Diego on a pony

Diego on a pony, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is little Diego on his first pony ride at Irvine Park. The first few seconds, he was trying so hard to laugh (without crying) but then he enjoyed it. What a big boy!

weather men know nada

We didn't go to Mexico this weekend because it was supposed to sprinkle today. Yeah right! It is so nice outside. Bastards!

Diego is one!

cake 2, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Happy Birthday little man. Here is Diego getting ready to enjoy his very first birthday cake. Please enjoy the pictures that follow. Oh, that poor cake!

For Diego

cake, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Diego's yummy cake. All for Diego!

The cake that was

after cake, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

This is what the cake looked like after Diego got ahold of it.

Nino and Diego

Nino and D, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is Diego with his Nino Nick. What a beautiful baby and oh, look at those eyes. (Oh, yours are nice too Nick!)

Nina and Diego

Nina and D, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is Nina Emma playing with Diego!

Diego w: Godparents

Diego w: Godparents, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is a picture of Diego on his first Birthday with his Nina Emma and his Nino Nick!

Spike TV...

... please bring back my MXC. They took off two episodes on Thursday night for some new show. Let the new show get its own time slot. I asked Eric to leave the new show on for a little bit so I could see if it was good enough to replace MXC, and NO, it is not! (Right you are Ken!)

So Spike TV, please give me back my four back to back episodes of MXC. If not Thursday night, any day, any time. I don't care when, just DO IT!

How old is he anyway?

Tonight Bradley (who is 14) and I were riding in the car. I had the windows down and the music up. Bradley says "Mom, can you turn it down? It is too loud!"

What the heck is that all about? He liked the song so it wasn't that. Whatever! Crazy teenagers!

JB's wedding

JB's wedding, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is a picture of Eric and Diane at JB's wedding. You can't tell, but I have a drink in my hand too!

One step, two step, three step, four...

...soon Diego will be walking out the door. Finally he is walking.

We were helping him yesterday, and all of a sudden, he was more sturdy. He quit throwing himself at whomever he was walking too. He even turned a corner yesterday. One year and three days old, FINALLY!

Craftmatic

You can get a lifetime of temporary relief.

Huh?

Dr. Dr. give me the news

Well, I went to the Dr. today and he said everything looks good. I have two pains and he doesn't know why but he doesn't think they have to do with the surgery. I am not sure how they could have to do with anything else, but what do I know.

He said it takes 2 to 3 weeks after surgery to feel yourself again. Why couldn't they have told me this before now? I have been feeling bad for feeling so tired for days now. I thought I should feel great!

Anyway, all is well. The plan is to return to work tomorrow. I like returning on Friday's, little to do and it helps me get back into the swing of things.

Eric and I are planning to go to Mexico over Father's Day weekend. Can't wait!

Got Milk?

I love the new Got Milk commercial. The one where all the men are buying ALL the milk because it helps with PMS. That is funny. Luckily for my husband (and me) I don't get PMS. And I better not see some comment on here stating otherwise Eric!

Not as tough as I thought

Okay, I always thought of myself as tough. Tough cookie, I can handle what comes my way! I am beginning to question that. My gallbladder surgery was a week ago today. I am still in pain. If I could, I would just lay in bed ALL day (instead of most of it). I seriously thought I would be up and as good as new in a few days. I stopped taking the pain meds because they weren't helping, but I am tired of say "ow" or "damn that hurt", especially when I cough or sneeze.

I am so ready to be over this whole thing. I had four children with nothing during labor, and here I am complaining day in and out. (poor Eric). I am one who is always saying, "You don't know until it happens to you" and I guess I just assumed I would do fine.

So, two more days before I go back to the Dr. I hope to be one hundred percent by that time. (okay 82% would be good)

Don't try and google "tough cookie", you won't find me there!

Where does the time go?

Diego will be one tomorrow? How has a year passed so quickly?

Do you ever find yourself thinking, "I can't wait until..."? I have decided not to do that anymore. I realized that even if I am simply wishing for next weekend, I am wanting a whole week to pass by. A week of hearing Siobhan sing, of "Mommy, I love you", seven days of having a freshly bathed child, seven chances to see Krystal and Bradley before they are adults. Seven days I might not remember to tell my husband how much I love him.

Really, what is the rush? Everyday is special. Even those boring, at home, doing nothing days, could contain some of our best memories. You just never know.

Happy Birthday little man. I can't believe we have been blessed with a whole year of those so cute little smiles. My life is so blessed (and I will do my best to see that next time I want to explode!) I love you, Eric, Krystal, Bradley, Siobhan and little Diego. I am thankful for everyday that we spend together.

Ms. Universe

Okay we were watching, I can't believe it either. But anyway, the girls had about 30 seconds to answer a question. One girl was asked what book she would recommend. Another was asked what mistake she made that she learned from. Another was asked "What is wrong with your country and what would you do to fix it?"

What the hell is that? How fair are those questions. I am against these kinds of contest just as a general rule, but come on. At least make them fair!

Diego and Siobhan

Diego and Siobhan, originally uploaded by cucsmom.

No, she does not have lipstick on! Blessed with red lips.

Mr. Big

I just saw a preview for a movie that has Mr. Big from Sex and the City in it. He was my favorite. I am going to have to watch that. I love Mr. Big!

Mr. Big! Mr. Big! Mr. Big!

amazing

I try really hard not to judge, but I don't know how people can do this. All I have to say is, damn that MUST hurt!

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art827.asp

Yes, those are IN the flesh!

Check this out!

click me!

Hush Little Baby

It worked! Diego has been sleeping through the night. Oh happy days (nights really!). Last night at about 2am, Eric heard him making some noise and he went right back to sleep. What a good boy!

Where are those past blogs?

That said Diego slept 10 hours? I need to look at those. He has been waking up every night at least once, but most of the time twice a night. Well no more Mister. I can't take it! Tonight I let him cry it out. I think it took about an hour or a little more. The odd thing is, we ALWAYS lay him down for a nap or bedtime awake. So you would think he is used to laying there in his bed.

I don't know if it is the change. His Nana usually watches him and she isn't right now. Maybe that really makes a difference. Whatever it is, MY body doesn't seem to understand. I blame his teeth. I blame this. I blame that. Forget it. I can handle a few sleepless nights knowing it should all blow over in a day or five.

We moved Diego in with Siobhan so of course he woke her up. She is in our bed. Looks like I will be hitting the couch!

Sad to see Gomez go

Gomez lost on The Contender tonight. I was so sure he was going to win. He has been my favorite all along. A family man through and through. He seemed to be the only one there who really enjoyed being there. He had a smile throughout and was a tiger in the ring. I do not follow boxing, I have never enjoying seeing boxing. This show has something more. For me, that something more, is now gone.

I know we will see you in the ring out there fighting the big fights. (I will be on the lookout!)

gallbladder, how about painbladder

Wednesday night Eric took me to the ER because I had severe stomach pains. After a mere three hours (although pain meds were given sooner) we found out I have gallstones. OUCH! I have never been in so much pain in my life! I just want to say thanks to my wonderful husband for making me to go to the hospital.

Surgery is scheduled for May 31st. Seems as though everyone at least knows one or two people who have had it done if it wasn't themselves. I can't wait! It is still really tender and bland food sucks!

Mouth of babes

Siobhan was telling me that there is a bird outside building a nest in the tree. She told me "you will see it when you open the door because it will fly in, open the fridge, and put the eggs in the fridge". hee hee how cute is that?!

Jaci and Krystal

Jaci and Krystal
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is a photo of Krystal with her favorite singer, Jaci Velasquez. We had the pleasure of hearing her sing one of her new songs and actually meeting her. Krystal was so pleased. Jaci was really sweet!

Dora's a big sister

If you are anything like us, you are watching Dora along with your little one (or at least hearing it!). Dora recently became a big sister. The whole show she keeps talking about how her Mommy is having a baby (a baby, a baby, a baby!). When Dora's Dad calls Dora's cell phone (nice!), Dora and Boots rush home to see the baby (a baby, a baby, a baby), and what a surprise there are TWO babies. Is it just me or does this translate into the fact that Dora's Mommy had no prenatal care? Otherwise she would be aware that there were going to be TWO babies!

Eric's mom

As I have been known to call her, had her back surgery last Monday (the 18th). It went well, although the surgery lasted about 2 hours longer than we expected. They didn't get her in a room until late afternoon on Tuesday, when we were finally able to see her. She is doing well, getting out of bed for short walks to help her adjust. She is having a little pain, but all in all I think she is doing real well. (Thank God!)

My mom is here watching Diego for us, (thanks mom!)

If anyone would like Carol's number at the hospital, just e-mail or call me and I will get it right to you!

LA Galaxy kicks grass

LA Galaxy beat the Chivas USA last night 3 to 1. Ha ha. Take that you Chivas fans who were giving us a hard time as we walked through a group of them last night. Who has the last laugh now!

For those of you who don't know, the Chivas USA and the Galaxy share the Home Depot Center, so the game last night was sold out! 37,000 people! It was great. There was so much electricity in the air, wow! I can't imagine how it feels at the World Cup (which I am trying to talk Eric into going to!)

Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole!

bee update

We went out yesterday morning and there was no evidence that there had ever been even one bee in our yard. If I didn't have a photo, I think I would have thought my mind was playing tricks on me.

We did notice later in the day our neighbors had a bee guy over there collecting some bees. I guess that bee guy didn't want to let the homeowners know that if they only waited a day or two they would probably bee (get it!) gone!

Bye bye bees!
Bee Bee go away, don't come back again some other day!

Bee Hive

Bee Hive
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Check out this bee hive on one of our lemon trees in the backyard. It isn't a great pic but the kids were afraid to get too close. There are bees all over the place.

Eric called to have it removed, but both places he called said to wait and see. They said bees usually leave after a few days.

I guess all our food will be sweet for a while!

Sad day for everyone

I would like to say a special prayer for Pope John Paul II. He was a very special Pope known for his love for children. He was always with the people. I am glad that he is no longer suffering but so sad that he is no longer with us here.

I was telling Eric that I know both of our grandparents are probably so pleased to finally meet him.

I wish I had been at home when I found out, but we were out eating. I would have liked to have learned of his passing in the comfort of my own home. Isn't it odd how we can grieve for someone we have never met but feel like we knew? He did so many wonderful things while he was here with us. I know he is finally able to feel young again. He is without pain. God bless you!

I would like to say a special thanks to my mom who called to see how I was. She knows how I am. Thanks mom!

eric and di

eric and di
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here is a photo from JB and Cynthia's wedding at the Queen Mary in Long Beach. We had a great time! What a great couple those two make (no not us, the bride and groom!)

Hello?

Is anyone there? Is that tumbleweed I see going by? Do I hear the wind blowing softly?

Ray

Wow! I think I always like movies the best when I know very little about them. I knew the movie was based on Ray Charles' life, but that is about it. It was really good. I enjoyed it. I would highly recommend this movie. I give it a 7.8.

okay, okay, okay

I was not going to post this, but I just have to. My husband sent me this site and if you look at at least 10 different links on this site, I bet you will be hooked. Check it out and let me know what you think. (This guy is crazy!)

Cute

What a weekend

and it is early Saturday evening. We finally made the call to have the acoustic removed from the whole house. They arrived about 2pm and told Eric they should be done about 5. So, yeah, they left around 7. It smells like wet wallpaper and it looks weird. They can't come back until Wed. to paint. So instead of putting the lights back up only to take them down again Wed, the kids are doing without in the bedrooms. It is finally starting to smell okay in here. There is still more work for Eric!

Today I took Siobhan and Krystal to the doctor. We spent a couple of hours there. Siobhan has pink eye in both eyes. (poor baby). Krystal's hip has been bothering her for about a week or two now. The Dr. took x-ray's and all looks well. She wants Krystal off the running for two full weeks and then to see her back before she starts up again. It is mid-track season! Great!

So, we are trying to reorganize our home. Good luck to us!

Check this out!

after you click on the link, type in a name, any name and see what happens!

Baby Name Wizard

let me know what you think.

Ahhh Mexico!

It is pulling my heart. It doesn't matter how recently I have been, my whole self longs to be there again. I was looking at photos from last July when the Cordova's and my good friends Natalie and Adrien joined us. Seeing Siobhan dance, the food, the pool, oh and of course, the drinks!

Plan, we need to plan another trip. How I wish we already had a house down there! How wonderful would it be to just go whenever we wanted? We could invite whomever we wanted and they wouldn't have to worry about a place to stay.

Isn't it funny how your heart can belong someone else where here is where you sit? I left my heart, in Baja, Mexico. Well it doesn't sound right, but it sure rings true!

Keb' Mo'

We went two nights ago to go see Keb' Mo'. He was wonderful! He sounded so great live. We have enjoyed his music for years and to see him actually perform was amazing. It was just him and one other guy and LOTS of guitars!

Check out the link to his web page. You can sample his music. He really seemed like a down to earth guy. How many grammy winners do you know that come out before the show (to where the fans are) and talk to people they know. He was funny, sounded great and, well, I think I like him more now!

Keb' Mo's web page

check it out and let me know what you think!

Mexico

all
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Here are some photos from Mexico. In this picture- Patsy, Mark, Bradley, Siobhan, Diane, Holly, Diego, Emma and Tony.

Thanks a bunch Tony! We had so much fun and the house was beautiful.

all 1

all 1
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

No one taught Daniel to look at the camera

2cuties

2cuties
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Holly and Siobhan

two handsomes

Diego Mark
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

This is little Diego with Uncle Mark

view

view
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

What a beautiful view we had.

Emma was taking the pic

all but Emma
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

That's Holly, me, Patsy, Siobhan and Diego!

Mark!

mark
Originally uploaded by cucsmom.

Yes, he is married. You can't take him anywhere!