all my blessings

Explorer Program

2009-10-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

He cleans up well this is the shaggy look he just shakes his head after a shower no comb needed

Daniel is applying to the Irvine explorer program it will be a great environment for him but also help get his foot in the door after college to become a fireman. Good Luck! I should have gotten the more clean cut, hair cut!

Grass is Growing!!!

2009-10-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

It has been a really long process but I see little baby grass shooting up

Toto's first trip to the puppy park

2009-10-19T08:29:00.000-07:00

Toto has no interest in the ducks

it is so beautiful here

making new friends

playing dead is good I am not sure why Toto walked right up to the biggest dog there but maybe he realized little guys need big friends just in case

See his beautiful smile that is a thank you for washing me in my johnson's baby oatmeal bath So he does look like a rat when he is wet but we love him after the puppy park and the bath he was exhausted and slept the rest of the afternoon

Christy is 12

2009-10-04T18:32:00.001-07:00

she had a make up / nail salon slumber party

poor Daniel messed up his face friday at football

We went to Disneyland for her birthday cash ( since she has a pass they give you disney money)

I could not stand the shaggy

2009-09-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

before.... fizzy hair all over the place

Daniel's hair was driving me crazy so we got a haircut not exactly the clean cut one I wanted but not the loser swap boy one he wanted I am trying to pick my battles

every cut was an ordeal seriously can you say drama queen

Julie was very kind and understanding she found a compromise so he doesn't look like a nerd

I love her tat

look there is a little boy under that mop bless you Julie your my hero!

Hanging out with Melissa and Kiya

2009-09-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

I got to see Melissa and Kiya friday and saturday it was great but I deleted the pictures somehow they were there..... and then they were not. We took a lot of great pictures wheelchair race, Kiya potty training and cute together pictures but they are all gone! Our weekend was cut short when Christy and Bryan got feveres and sore throats, this is just not my week. This is why I hate computers I downloaded them SAW them then cleared the camera now when I try to show off our visit the pictures are gone...... plus I had picture of my class graduation I actually wish I had old fashion flim right now

Old Photo

2009-09-10T08:11:00.001-07:00

This is the only youth picture I have at my house of us but I will scan some from my parents house ....... we picked those dresses????? wow

We went to see Lisa

2009-09-10T04:56:00.000-07:00

see that small spot between the dogs that was my sleeping spot the dogs did not understand I need personal space she Lisa sleeping no problem she is used to the dogs using every inch of the Ca. King bed

Loki looks like he is sticking out his tounge! I can hear the ha ha no room for you!

Cash-mire sweaters and butter do not mix so Lisa did not enjoy the crab with us (slave to fashion)

Crab shack

does anybody have a napkin?

yes it was cold my poor Daddy was sweating the hills of San Fran is not wheelchair friendly

Somewhere behind the " Lisa " is Todd the husband

We spent the day in Berkeley where the kite people and the sail boat guys loved the wind

Loki walked me right into a curb ................

Late b-day celebration

Notice my candle is not lit Lisa lost her flame rights her candle set in SAND caught fire and took one of Todds paintings with it so even with all of us at the table there was not enought adult supervision for Lisa to have a match

Do not even ask about my hair the wind was terrible

brat

R U ready for some football?

2009-09-08T09:36:00.000-07:00

Laugh of the day

2009-09-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

Disneyland

2009-09-01T06:52:00.000-07:00

it is a sticker but some day

as it should be

it's DANIEL I don't know what else to say

Somebody should tell these guys the BABY is not real SHHH!

My favorite painting -- never happen but it's pretty

It is birthday time!

2009-08-29T01:48:00.001-07:00

Melissa and I share the same birthday

My daddy

my hubby

Key Lime Pie

"Plantar Fascia" ligament issues

2009-08-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

I tore my plantar fascia ligament in May and finally my HMO ok'd the MRI and now I am on the way to recovery. I will be in the cast through September then I have physical therapy.

My personal care giver I really think I need a bell right?

Girl Day!

2009-08-17T07:56:00.001-07:00

Melissa and I got our free birthday facial/make over! too bad my arm is to short for all of my face to be in the picture but mel looks good trust me I also have (going out evening make up on)

Kiya wanted to be alone I guess, she pulled her hood down her face

we love her pink daisies even money got her ears pierced

I look horrible but this is an important moment

Every princess needs a tierra

We are off to get our ears pierced

Kiya shared some dirt with Emma

See my shoes

My Family ( random shots )

2009-08-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

My text'n queen

Toto

2009-08-02T07:55:00.000-07:00

We just adopted a beautiful baby boy Toto Sooooooo cute

he was cold really!

making new friends izzy and emma are adjusting to their new baby brother

Worst Day Ever

2009-07-23T07:54:00.000-07:00

At the shelter when we first found him 6 years ago

We had to put Sandy to sleep on wednesday morning. I am still sorting my feelings but I know we should have done it years ago he has bit many people and other dogs as well has killed two rabbits. Sandy has also been the greatest dog for our family he is so sweet and loyal. We got him from the pound 6 years ago when Daniel was struggling in school. His teacher recommended we get him a dog and it was so good for Daniels behavior but then Sandy started biting other dogs and any person who came near Daniel. He bit my Dad a couple times, my sister, my grandma and others so we started crating him when people came over. We hired a trainer who did warn us she believed he was trained to fight other dogs by his last owner and we can't remove that behavior. He did get better while in training but if I took him for a walk and he saw another dog he would shake and foam at the mouth trying to pull off the leash. Once I got him under control he would be so sweet and he knew it was bad his body language was sorry and embarrassed. I do not understand how some stupid jerk can trian a dog to tare apart other animals. I hate Sandy's first owner but I was warned the shelter found him in La Habra and said they believed he was from a dog fighting ring but we fought to save his life wanting to retrain him and prove that love can fix damage. We had a ton of interviews with the shelter staff and finally won the right to keep Sandy alive. He was the perfect dog for Daniel at home and alone but we could not trust him. We had to keep him in a crate whenever people came over and we could not walk him for fear another dog would get too close.

So yesterday morning lost our brand new kitten Honey, Sandy got a hold of her and that was it. I feel like a monster but I had to do the right thing, finally! I held the kitten for a while and kept thinking this could have been a child or an adult poor Sandy does not know any better I feel sick and horrible but we did give Sandy 6 great years when the pound wanted to put him down then. I can not sleep or stop crying my son is sad he lost his best friend and my daughter is still at camp so I have to tell her saturday once she gets home her new kitten is gone and our first family dog is gone. sandy got Daniel thru so much and now he is starting high school at a brand new school with no friends and no Sandy. Why?

We went to visit Melissa

2009-07-19T07:35:00.000-07:00

we swam

made new friends

made odd discoveries

went to lowes to heal the plant

stopped for ICE CREAM

did a little dance

rested

read stories

played on the playground

then said good bye

Disneyland

2009-07-12T21:18:00.000-07:00

We got on so many rides and really fast cause of my foot

Our grass project is going slow

2009-07-09T00:40:00.000-07:00

Getting all the old grass and the roots is a very long process

Honey

2009-07-09T00:30:00.001-07:00

Uncle Daniel does not really care he has a new neice

I guess Honey likes her Grandma

Big sister Emma is not sure about having a baby sister

Auntie Lisa is here!

2009-07-09T00:22:00.001-07:00

Visit with Melissa and the kids

2009-07-04T22:02:00.001-07:00

We swam in the beautiful pool

New Grass

2009-07-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Daniel ia taking a much needed rest after running 7 miles in cross country, football practice and helping in the yard yes! those huge feet are a 13 and a half

Emma and Sandy supervised so they were beat

We even removed all my parents grass so we are get new grass together although my daddy is supposed to sit and watch not help

Marriott Palm Springs

2009-06-26T21:58:00.000-07:00

My parents took us on vacation and Christy brought her friend Tori

A Bonney Visit

2009-06-20T22:57:00.001-07:00

the boys went in search of bugs

Caiden is not a fan of the berry

Kiya is happy to eat his share

Caiden drew pictures for Papa and Daddy! but don't tell it's a father's day surprise

caiden got a new bike

those eyes.............................................

Doggie Beach

2009-06-15T15:07:00.000-07:00

waiting to cross the street to the doggie beach

why we should not carry tennis balls in our pockets

Emma is scared of the waves

Emma met a twin friend.........

and was ready for a story and a nap

8th Grade Graduation

2009-06-14T08:30:00.000-07:00

My 14 year old son graduated on friday and is off to high school at a public school, we were able to get him into Woodbridge where my husband teaches Thankfully

Both sets of Grandparents came to watch Daniel say good bye to Jr. High and Maranatha Christian Academy. My dad is still off work recovery from open heart surgery God blessed us with a sucessful surgery and I have given him strict instructions no more heart attacks

Even Auntie Lisa flew in for the event

Seriously can this girl sit any closer! I am not dealing with this girlfriend thing every well ! This is the only good thing about switching schools.......

Daniel said I am still the most important girl in his life but I think little miss thing stands way too close! This is not what a mother like to see but Christina loves to take pictures of her big brother misbehav'n

Half Marathon

2008-10-12T21:21:00.000-07:00

So my time was not great 2 hours and 32 min. but it does give me a time to beat for the next one. Our 13.1 miles was beautiful along the queen mary and the beach. We don't look so great but a long run will do that to a person.

The queen Bee was pleased you figure out which one she is I'll never tell......

These medals were very well earned my friends beat me but it won't happen again!!!!

Next year a hotel is in order it took us 2 hours in the car trying to get out of the area, we could have been ice'n our leggs and having a bite to eat

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-12T20:58:00.000-07:00

Kiya's busy afternoon

2008-09-12T21:21:00.001-07:00

Kiya is on the go we had a very busy day
She was very helpful with the laundry

we had a very short 10 minute power nap
Went for a wonderful walk around long beach

we even had to wear our very cool Barbie shades

and ofcourse we had water (a girl's best friend)

Fireproof

2008-09-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

There is a new movie coming to theaters the end of September that I am very excited about! It's the same maker as the Left Behind series, with Kirk Cameron. To watch the trailer go to fireproofthemovie.com kind of a reminder how important our spouse is and working at the marriage. I know I tend to get selfish and only worry about my own needs but this is a reminder to me to do little things to show I care.

Shirt

2008-07-18T11:48:00.001-07:00

This is the family running with the dog !

Gypsyrunner.com

2008-07-18T11:17:00.000-07:00

I am training for my first tri - atholon and it's been fun I love to swim and run anyway. Now the bike thing is different I love spin in a gym in a air conditioned room but the riding a real bike outside I am not so sure. So at my last race a met a really nice woman Amy, she as a very cute running items boutique complete with items for the dog lover. So I sugguested a idea for a new shirt and she did it I call it the Katie but on her web site it's under awesome shirt. It says I'm not perfect but parts of me are awesome with a pair of great running legs. I love the Group Therapy shirt it's a picture of the whole family running together with the dog of course. It's worth a trip to her site www.gypsyrunner.com and you can see a picture of Gypsy the dog that started it all.

Wicked

2008-07-13T05:40:00.000-07:00

I finally got to see Wicked is was awsome! Hollywood was an experience to say the least but I am so glad I went.

Day At The Beach

2008-07-08T22:03:00.000-07:00

Emma is keeping a close eye on the girls while they try out their new boggie boards

Poor Emma, she was not very impressed with Kiya

I see Yoga in this girls future

AZ Vacation to see family

2008-07-07T06:51:00.000-07:00

The weather was so weird we had strong winds and the dark clouds with rain, then it would clear up just as fast but God gave us a rainbow. This is my brother- in- laws street the houses are beautiful and super cheap it's been 2 years and a lot of them are still empty guess the job market sucks everywhere.

Aunt Natasha and Christy reliving the "Little House" days

We had a blast in Tomb Stone watching the shows

Searching for gold

The Grand Canyon was so beautiful

Majorly Down And Out

2008-06-26T08:49:00.000-07:00

So I was off in my pursuit of life, liberty and happiness (okay so maybe it was not that noble) when the stupid County has a buget issue and once again I am a casualty of the unemployment line. Seriously I am concerned it's me I can't take another "no fault layoff" that does not make me feel any better as I contemplate putting my children in Public School my silver lining is that the housing market went to crap so selling the house would not put us in a better situation. Not too worry I have gotten out of bed and applied to several different agencies and I am going to hang out at the gym until I get something. I did a little retail therapy ofcourse I got a purse and my running group all got matching tattoo's of running shoes with wings so I am regresing to a bratty teenager for a moment after all it looks like I will celebrate the big 32 unemployed or maybe retired that will give me more time for Yoga.

Happy Anniversary !

2008-04-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

We got boxing gloves for me to practice "self defense"

I am learning to be ok with a punch being thrown my way, no really I just look scared!

My BABY is 13!

2008-04-14T18:53:00.000-07:00

He is not too old for the clown cone, but I didn't think about it ahead of time. After dinner he asked where the clown cone was? oops I forgot thankfully the guy made me one really quick but it did not have time to set so it melted.
Grandma Barbara and Papa Tony took the kids to Bubba Gump for shrimp (Daniel's favorite) for his big day --- he is a teenager:( They are going with him on the class trip to Washington D.C. they are all very excited about their upcoming trip
My parents stopped by to wish him a happy birthday

I am in a high stress academy so I did not have time to prepare a party or anything so August 20th when I get to join the world again I will take him out just the 2 of us. He has been very understanding of my being gone all the time, even on the weekends working out with my classmates, soon I will be back to the gym with him.

Mini Vacation

2008-02-15T14:36:00.000-08:00

I took a much needed short vacation to Sun City to see Kiya and it was worth the drive. She is beautiful and fun to watch sleep, the facial expressions are priceless. It was good to see Melissa and have some down time. I ended up spending the night which was nice I got to relax and sleep in there was no reason to be up at 4:30 so I slept and then studied my codes (for a up coming job I believe will start the 29th of Feb.) and did not go to the gym. It was nice to take a day off from the gym but I ate sooooooooo much. It was definetly a vacation I had a turkey burger with fries and a awsome carmel turtle shake plus chocolate covered strawberries, super crunchy orange chicken and some yummy cereal just to name a few items. I am back on the slim fast today but this was a very nice break.

the peaceful sleeping smile - looks like an angel

Kiya made a few funny faces too which kept us laughing

Girl's Day Out

2008-02-15T14:27:00.000-08:00

We found a beautiful staircase I had never seen before in my many adventures to Disneyland.

We all had a wonderful day in the sun it felt great to be outside

My Parents Birthday Party

2008-02-13T08:39:00.000-08:00

My mom's birthday is feb 11 and my dad's is feb 10 making him the all important "older than mom"

My grandma made a wonderful lemon pie which I did have a peice of and it was worth the 4 mile run needed to remove the remains from my stomach

My Aunt Jeanne brought the kids candy from see's as a early valentine gift

Game Night

2008-01-29T14:49:00.000-08:00

We had a fun evening playing clue. I am not a game person and this is not something I sign up for on my own but I have kids. Christina loves clue right now and yes the dogs must be present for any family event.

I don't think Emma figured out "who done it yet" I think it was Mr Green and something about a rope.

My boys Daniel and Sandy

I am starting a temp job tomorrow to pass the time till my dream job starts, so this is a fun mom - n- kids time

Since we had the camera out I had Daniel take me with my most favorite person in all the world! We never get our picture taken so this was a nice treat and it actually looks ok.

Our Zoo Visit

2008-01-10T16:37:00.000-08:00

They a have a Spider City thing going on now

It's great exercise and fun to be together the whole day.

We had not been to the zoo as a family in years. So it was fun to have the experience again.

My kids are getting older Daniel is 7th and Christina is 5th grade so I am pleased they want to spend time with me. The LA Zoo is a fun zoo because it's free to park and only 10$ for adults and 5$ for kids. We packed a lunch and had a great time. Is it just my family I am never in any pictures ? I promise I was there but I held the camera.

After the zoo we stopped at my parents, they are on the way home. My camera card was full or I would have taken pictures of the Taco's they were so good.

AZ Over Thanksgiving

2007-11-25T20:42:00.000-08:00

We drove to AZ the day before thanksgiving to see my brother and sister in law

It is very beautiful

got to spend some time with Blaine and Brandon ( Bryan's Dad and Brother)

Thanksgiving

2007-11-25T20:29:00.001-08:00

Unlce Brandon was able to make it to our holiday this year as well as grandma Dalot

We loved having everyone over

Grandma Dalot and Grandma Bergstrom had a good chat

My sister came for a visit

2007-11-20T12:35:00.000-08:00

This is the after shot - I got my hair cut at supercuts I even showed the nice lady a picture of Katie Holmes "see the cute bob " -- " yes " the nice lady says then boom this happen she said "oops, it supposed to be longer in the front" OOPS is not a word I want to hear when you are cutting around my head

CA. Adventure and Disneyland

2007-11-06T07:13:00.001-08:00

the castle has snow and the shops have Christmas stuff :) this is my favorite time of year (in 2 weeks when all the christmas stuff is up) it's beginning to look a lot like CHRISTMAS!

everyone needs a TINK santa hat

Christina loves the brother bear trail challenge at Ca. adventure she can climb a rock wall and run through a rope maze high above the ground

I passed the written CHP test so we had to celebrate and of course it had to be in the happiest place on earth

this is just like boot camp right?

Doggy Beach

2007-11-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

The dogs have a issue when riding in the car they refuse to be touched by eachother so the kids are responsible to make share neither dog cross the line

Emma found a beagle friend

Sandy said " this is great I love going to the dog beach, I can feel the wind thru my hair"

Follow me I know the way

Down On The Farm

2007-10-20T20:58:00.000-07:00

Yuck! they have those cat things- I guess with all the other animal noises it blends. You would have to have a pretty strong sound machine to sleep thru the night near this barn.

he must think the camera is food because he was very excited and walked right up to me

truly a face NOT EVEN a mother could love

Three year old gives birth to 12 healthy babies....

.....maybe I should be a newpaper lady. I got your attention !

Bran new babies so cute

This pig R-E-A-L-L-Y wanted us to pet him, I was scared he might bite me. Which ,ok! ( duh pigs don't eat people ) but at the time when this 700 pound thing was coming at me, I am not willing to find out. My daughter didn't appear to be helping save her dear mother's life.

I found two very nice ladies that are heavier than me. I believe I will stand here all day.

I can't believe I had wallpaper in my home in 2007

2007-10-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

I like the plain color so much better. I can't believe we had WALL-PAPER still but at least it's fixed now.

I can't find the before pictures of the wall paper - my computer is totally MALE it hides things from me and takes a really long time to do what I want.

I think I hate my cat

2007-10-14T23:31:00.000-07:00

So my cat, Phoebe has been keeping me up at night. This all started several weeks ago, he just doesn't sleep through the night anymore.He makes a horrible sound right outside my bedroom window ( not the I'm in heat noise- just a loud I am here deal with me noise) so I let him in which seriously takes a full 10 minutes to decide if he would like to grace me with his presents. Then S-L-O-W-L-Y gluides through the door like he is on the red carpet, careful to hold his nose high in the air, he is a confident little brat. All this to shortly there after change his mind and make a lot of noise to go back out again.
I was wasting time on the internet since the cat had woke me again when I found this article..... seriously anyone who has this much time on their hands WOW!
I didn't do this much prep getting my newborn HUMAN babies to sleep thru the night.
Well good night! I got ear plugs :) I know I am the worse pet owner ever but I have had this cat for years and now he can't sleep! Maybe the author of this book would like a new pet.

You can use this knowledge to help your kitty get on a nighttime schedule that's more compatible with yours. Here's how:
THE HUNT. Right before you're ready for bed, conduct an interactive play session, using a fishing pole-type toy. You can do other play sessions throughout the day and evening, but it's this pre-bedtime session that's crucial for resetting kitty's internal clock.
Next comes THE FEAST. Reward the Mighty Hunter with food or a treat. If you schedule-feed, divide up his daily portion and offer a meal after playtime. If you free-feed, take up the food earlier in the evening. After playtime, make a big production over placing the food back down.
GROOMING. Your cat will take care of this.
BEDTIME. If you've led a satisfying play session and offered a food reward, kitty will probably be ready to sleep.
Note: If your cat remains active at night, place a few treat balls or other activity toys out for him to play with while everyone sleeps.
For more tips, preorder my new book, Starting from Scratch.

Pumpkin Patch

2007-10-14T23:06:00.001-07:00

He said he was too old and wanted to skip the pumpkin patch this year but I saw a smile

The little farm was more fun than the pumpkins. My kids even asked if we could buy a goat, thankfully the city has zoneing laws and would greatly frown upon me having a goat.

My little pumpkins, clearly the most adorable kids here.

Disneyland with Grandma and Papa

2007-10-14T22:33:00.001-07:00

Papa Tony had a Birthday

This was the cutiest Tink hat but One Size fits All never fits me

Yes this is Bryan at Disneyland - don't blink you may never see it again. He hates Disneyland and jsut since he was in such a great mood already he ran into some students from his class (while the rest of us were on a ride) and he was holding my purse for me. I really don't think they notice they were trying to get over Mr. Pacheco in shorts and a t-shirt " Mr. Pacheco always wears a tie

I am the queen of fuzzy pictures, I just though I should share with the world my vision without contacts.

Obviously I didn't take this picture maybe my camera needs contacts!

It's King John the king of England from Robin Hood

Is it just me or is Daniel the tallest of us all?

Resting on His Promises

2007-10-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

So it has been 1 year and a few weeks since I thought my world fell apart. I have not even paid attention to the timing, God's perfect timing but here I am. None of my worst fears happened. God answered my needs and brought me through my "valley of darkness" without my lifting a finger. He saw me staring into the pit of my own failures. He saw me in my personal Garden of Gethsemane-and he didn't want me to be alone.
I am so quick to think money is the answer and rich people don't have my level of stress but I have made less than nothing for 13 months and God has carried me. My heavenly Father often blesses me through my earthly father but I have not a need that wasn't met. I still have my house, we have never missed a meal and we have had extra blessings. I shall not want, (not because I have learned true happiness does not exist on this earth) but my cup truly runth over and then some. I can't always see how God is going to pay the mortgage or the medical bills but He does and He did not need my help.
I am very close to having the job I want and God continues to open doors. On the way to my written test I heard the song "when I call on Jesus" and again on my way to the oral board reminding me ALL THINGS are possible. Satan has tried to ruin everything I even was in a car accident on the way to the oral board but truly when I come to the end of myself God takes the wheel. He is a gentleman so He does let me swerve all over the road but when I move out of the way He takes the wheel and all is well. So why do I need to re-learn this lesson every time? Why do I still get upset when someone hurts me or things don't go my way? I still have to get to the end of my earthly power before I let go and let God. So if I a sinful, selfish parent know how to give good things to my children why can't I relax and allow my perfect Heavenly Father lavish upon me, HIS CHILD. God is with me every moment and He does not need my help or advise. Even if I have to sing the pre-school songs in my head to remember "My GOD is sooooo BIG sooooooo STRONG and Soooooo MIGHTY there is NOTHING my God can not do" I shall not fear what can mere man do to me ?

Christina's Slumber Party

2007-09-28T23:18:00.001-07:00

The bounce house was a blast

I got colored wigs and light sticks at the dollar tree

Day at the Park

2007-09-16T20:56:00.000-07:00

Careful what the kids read in the doctor's office

2007-09-09T22:07:00.000-07:00

My daughter informed me that she "know's what mom's do after dropping the kids off for the first day of school". In my mind I am preparing the argument that not all mom's eat ice cream and watch soap operas, when she tells me "it's time to bleach the house to prepare for cold and flu season". Noooooo I am thinking in my head I do not have time. Last week she cleaned all the carpet in the house (which of course required all the furniture to be moved) but how do I calm her down without crushing her love of all things clean and in there place.

I informed her that THIS MOM is studying for a career exam in 12 days and it's pass/fail, cleanliness of my home is not going to score me any points. Her adorable little face falls as she said "but mom I was going to ask if I can do it for you" seriously how can I say no when this is all she wants in the whole world. Christina and I had the whole house done in about an hour and it does look better.

The tile really did need it, I had no idea how dirty it was. I am happy to say we are all clean and ready for flu season. I still hate house keeping magazines. I will make sure I bring a nice harmless chapter book for her to read at our next appointment.

Make-Up Counter

2007-09-05T05:21:00.000-07:00

Doctor said just to use claritin and stay out of the sun ( as if anyone would want to go out in this heat) she likes the cold baths in baking soda

So to stay out of the heat we have been hanging out at the mall. Along with a lot of other families sunday, it was too hot to shop people were sitting around everywhere just reading talking or playing board games. I am studying for a test and the kids played game-boy to pass the time. Christina and I decided to get all beautiful at the make -up counter - bad idea she is covered in this rash from head to toe. We don't know what line she is allergic to because we played at several. I appear to be going for the worst mom of the year award.

Pool Fun

2007-09-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

Bryan's brother got a new pool table so he gave us the old one

Sandy wants to play

Birthday Party Incident

2007-09-02T05:51:00.001-07:00

The girls - Steph's husband Cliff and Bryan are in his office playing computer games (BIG surprise) forgot to take a picture but I am sure you have all seen the boys ignore the world to play games before.

If you notice my knees look odd that is blood and glass. Steph made me a cake and my very helpful daughter Christina dropped it. The dish did not break in big sections- it shattered in little glass splinters all over the kitchen title. ( was NOT in picture taking mode needless to say this was not her first "butter-finger" incident )

Sandy was very glad to get to be out with company . Steph kept him on a leash just in case but he did great !

Emma was not happy to see my Grandma in her spot. Emma tried to push her out of the way. Clearly we need to read "Emily Post" with our dear Emma and get her some manners.

We went up to the Albertson's and bought a cake to save the day :)

$14.99 one would think it would taste better but at least we had one to put the candle on right

Christy and her friend Victoria are drawing disney characters with my Aunt Jeanne. Christy is still glaring at me. I got a little angry about the cake :( Good thing my Dad was camping and wasn't here is see me in craby mom form. It was toooooo hot to count to ten and breathe before I reacted. After the company left I took her to the mall for some A/C and bought her a carmel apple . I guess I felt a little guilty

Poor Emma had to find a new spot doesn't she look happy

We love the art studio

2007-08-31T03:11:00.000-07:00

If was sooooooo hot that Bryan actually agreed to go to the UNhappiest place on earth to be in the a/c. The art classes are a lot of fun and the artist break it down into small steps so our pictures look like something.

I found a way to save money

2007-08-28T08:56:00.000-07:00

Kirby (the wonderful) cleaned my carpet beautiful and got the dog smell out amd we hope will help a lot with Christina's allergies

since noboby sleeps in their own bed I should sell Christina's and the dog's beds. Since Daniel pulls the sheets off every night I'll sell that too! All that should bring me to about $8.....

Disneyland

2007-08-27T22:04:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in the art class

Daniel is completely OVER the whole Disney thing - yes that is a game boy Disneyland is not enough entertainment

Snow White really like Christina's ear rings

I went to the the Fairy God - Mother to grant my employment wish

and I got a few ideas

a fairy

a princess

cow girl?

OK so I have way more soul searching to do

A Visit with Caiden and Melissa

2007-08-27T21:45:00.000-07:00

Chief Caiden made a very yummy dinner What a big boy on his bike

Counting the ladybugs at Homedepot

Cousin Lindsey

Cousin Kyle

Best Birthday gift Kirby Sentria

2007-08-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

I got a early birthday gift this year and wow! I am in love. ok so it's a vacuum and before anyone votes my huband jerk of the year I wanted it. I needed a carpet shampoo machine because I have 2 dogs and 2 kids enough said ... right?
My husband bought me me a Kirby it is a vacuum carpet cleaner and a title - hard floor cleaner.
The vacuum has the most awsome suction it picks up eveything which is great if your kids have allergies. He salesman vacuumed my house with my vacuum and then the Kirby and oh wow it picked up sooooooo much then we did the bed I couldn't belive all the yuck dead cell bed mites ofcourse my son got out his microsope to check it all out
the thing even has a massage attachment - which ofcourse is even more important than the dry shampoo attachment that removed the pet ordor

We went on a date !

2007-08-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

I know big shock we ended up at Disneyland but that is because this was where we had our first date Oct. 23, 1991 !!!!!

Disneyland

2007-08-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

Time to relax

2007-08-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to me in the moment and not stress about the furture. I want to enjoy my childrens youth and not be the crabby mom worried about everything I can't control. God wants me to relax in HIS arms and just KNOW that He is God. HE is in control and doesn't need my help..... what ? (I have to be in control and everything must be in my calendar and planned ) WRONG God said be still and KNOW that I am God.
I still try to control things every now and then but I am learning !
I am out of a job AGAIN (mortgage need I say more) but I know God has a plan and I pray super loud that it's not in that field but I trust if I am still and calm God will lead. He is a gentle - man He does not force Himself. I come to the end of myself and then I let God but I am learning to LET GO and LET GOD

Yosemite

2007-08-25T07:12:00.001-07:00

we saw 3 bears thru-out the week only a couple feet away they are so beautiful. We also got very close to a dear (I feed it cheez it's out of my hand)

This is a scarey thought my dad lets my son chop wood (and has been for some time) am I the only one who sees the ax coming straight for his left foot?

No worries Daniel informs me that he is wearing shoes! what ? sometimes my 12 year old is not the sharpest tool and I am wondering about my dad's judgment Thank God nothing happen -this trip!

So in the middle of this beautiful place is hotels, stores and resturants what I even saw a ice skating rink? what happen to untouch nature? at least the pizza was good :)

They are almost the same size - wow they are both a mens 13 shoe and Daniel doesn't seem to be done growing yet

Good help is so very hard to find - after sleeping on the ground for a week we all needed a massage

I love the self timer on my camera I hate asking people to take our picture and then praying they don't take off with my camera

Yes I ate badly - but it was good

Christy was the "Molly home maker" even in the dirt

So these pants went in the trash once I saw the picture I look like I gained 70 pounds ( the pizza was good but I didn't eat that much )

my daughter wants a horse soooooooo bad she just loves them - so to keep my good name as most awsome mother - I let her know that the city we live in is not zoned for livestock - blame the city! this mom can pick her battles limit the times you have to say no to your child

My Parents have been married 38 years

2007-07-24T08:26:00.001-07:00

Christina and I had fun setting up for the dinner. We had hawaiian food, I made rice, shredded pork and fruit salad.

my grandma and aunt jeanne came for dinner

Family Baptism On the Beach

2007-07-15T08:28:00.000-07:00

4th of july

2007-07-04T22:43:00.000-07:00

In my dreams this harley is mine

Luke Brett Christina and Daniel at calvary chapel bbq

Christy got to drive the golf cart

forget the live band - get me on the bike !

Marriott's Desert Springs Villas

2007-06-28T23:48:00.000-07:00

We had wonderful meals

played with our food

even over-ate

swam a lot

took a few boat rides

and went to Joshua Tree

and laid around doing NOTHING..... I did finally get a job so we are all very thankful that God has provided again

Disneyland

2007-06-14T23:07:00.001-07:00

Nothing going on lately

2007-06-11T16:17:00.000-07:00

The cat got a free toy with her cat food purchase

Christy is making herself a dress with the help of great grandma

But a least we have old pictures of exciting times

Graduation Day

2007-06-07T20:54:00.000-07:00

My little boy is all done with elm. school

So we went to Red Robin for shakes and onion rings with grandma and papa

Christy lost a tooth at the table (think she like attention?)

Life Stinks "Delete Delete"

2007-06-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

So as if everything wasn't crappy enough. I went to a temp agent this morning who kindly informed me that finding me a job would be very hard. Companies don't like "people from the mortgage industry" so I was sent home to "change the wording" on my resume. Thinking this isn't so bad I can research exactly what I want to do the rest of my life. (Oh yes the best part is my high school teacher husband referred me to her she was surprized by how old I was, NICE !) So I am on the drive home and a cop pulls me over for speeding (which crap - I am) 56 in a 45 to be exact. So I really wish there was a reset button to life "do-over".

Go Angels

2007-06-03T20:30:00.001-07:00

The angels won at the end of the 9th

There was so much yummy looking food Pizza hotdogs french fries chips and this tray looked very yummy but I am on a Diet and passed on it all..... oh well it will be worth it

Christy and her cousin Mateo before Grandma and Grandpa got them Angels T- shirts

We had a great afternoon

Mother Daughter Day

2007-06-02T23:49:00.000-07:00

We began the day at the dog beach

went to the doggie park

checked in with the ducks

and the geese

I bought a slip and slide .... so much fun we laughed so much

then we went to the movies and saw Shrek 3 and Pirates 3

all in all it was a great day

My Parents Have Gone Home

2007-05-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

Lisa is looking better more color and awake a little more . My parents left monday we all had a nice visit.

My parent's are here for the holiday weekend

2007-05-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

The kite surfer's are very cool to watch. They do all kinds of ups in the air and stuff

This is some guy that came in very close to the boat. It looked like a very good workout.

Somebody took their dog out on the water

I borrowed Todd's sweatshirt so you can't see that I have lost 2 more pounds I am loving Lisa's gym (Tennis Club really) I am so soiled with the classes and separate woman's gym with trainer advise for free. The showers are even clean

We had yummy chicken - Lisa is not able to sit up at the table yet so she has her chair with the chicken broth and bread

We are trying to keep the dogs calm they are excited to see Lisa but they are 80lbs each

Sunflowers

2007-05-25T21:20:00.001-07:00

The nurse today was wonderful kind and very helpful. Lisa is still in a ton of pain but a caring nurse makes it a little easier. She got beautiful sunflowers to help her heal

Very Crappy Day

2007-05-24T16:55:00.001-07:00

Lisa is in so much pain the the nurse today is evil, the nurse last night was stupid. They had her get up and walk today but the cleaning staff picked that moment to mop the floor leaving it very wet. They even had all the full trash bags in the hall with the lunch cart and nobody moved anything they watched. I pushed her medicine thingy and tried to help her manuver thru this jungle gym the morons created for her first trip out of bed. After ignoring her rash and major pain they all (yes all 6) had a lunch break at the same time while the nurse station buzzer went off constantly so other patients were ignored also- at least they are a equal opportunity abuser.

No luck on the job front the temp agents can't even find something same to tide me over.

Lisa's Surgery went very well

2007-05-23T21:38:00.000-07:00

Lisa is doing great ... she is in a lot of pain but the staff is very prove of her progress

Freya and Loki miss their mommy

Her friend Victoria and daughter Nicole came to visit

this is the before picture I got a free makeover

and this is after wow! now I just need to lose the second chin

Freya and Loki on their hill

2007-05-22T21:29:00.000-07:00

Had a wonderful day today but stupid me I forgot my camera. After the doctor app. we went to visit Diana in Discovery Bay she has the most beautiful house on the water with a boat dock. We sat outside and enjoyed the view it was gorgous. Absolutly perfect lazy afternoon on the dock- and me with no camera. One the way home we passed farm land cows , horses , tall rows of corn on the cob and my camera was in my suitcase.
We are getting nervous surgery is hours away God will take care of Lisa but she is so small - tiny really.

The food has been remarkable

2007-05-22T07:56:00.000-07:00

Not the best picture but this is her beautiful back yard we sat by the fire for hours relaxing

Mahi Mahi with green beans and wild rice yummy

A Visit with my sister

2007-05-20T23:04:00.000-07:00

Todd is a amazing cook, this was the first night crab cakes. The other 2 meals of the day I am having my shake. Hopefully I will get enough exercise walking the dogs and going to Lisa's Gym

The hockey game was fun Todd is in the middle in the gold and red I am working on taking pictures thru glass and on ice

Lisa's babies Freya and Loki

Fulfilling my potential to be fat....

2007-05-20T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have had some success in the weight lose area. I weighed in on friday and am down 10&1/2 pounds and lost 4% body fat. I can live with the shakes twice a day but I really look forward to the 1 meal however what I have forgotten is that that meal is to be sensible.
I am learning to change my eating style now that I am in my 30's. My doctor made a comment about being obese and don't I want to be around for my children's future. (yes I want to be here but I never thought I am making a choice not to be around every time I put something in my mouth)
On Tuesday I was informed I no longer had a job so ofcourse I see us living on the streets and all is lost. I tried to pretend I was ok but our little Caiden was over and he gave me a hug and asked in a tiny little voice "my katie don't cry, please " after much thought he informed me "mc nuggets make me happy" so ofcourse we got to try it.
Now being the food therapy moron that I am I proceeded to have a big mac, fries and a chocolate sundae with my mc nugget.
When things are bad I allow myself to eat (to feel better) but I felt huge and gross. Also when things are good I reward myself with food. Both leave me with heartburn when I indulge for comfort. Since I cannot afford to have my jaw wired shut I have to make peace with food.
I am currently with my sister which helps a lot A) she is tiny B) they don't eat fast food - everything is healthy C) I brought my shakes.
So on the plane ride here I am feeling great (remember I am down 10 and a half pounds) but the woman next to me was large poor thing she was so large she could not put the arm rest down so her butt and legs travelled along on top of me and it dawned on me that if I was not also heavy I could give her more room.
Once we landed I headed to the gym with new motivation ( totally love my sister's gym they provide the towels the water with lemon and they do your laundry so your not driving around with sweaty clothes in your trunk) after the shower I notice they provide the q-tips the hair dryer and there is a iron available ( I wished I had a nice blouse to iron and wear ) I brought comfy clothes and we will be in the hospital most of the trip.
The trainer advise is free there is a womans saide with weights so you don't have to work out with boys around. I hope to push myself and learn to burn the right calories so I can lose the remaning 40 pounds so I can go back to the doctor and say "I am a good mom and I will be around for awhile " I am learning to be confident and not make excuses. For now I still hate food but I have a choice to make everyday.

our big swimming guy

2007-05-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

Mother's day BBQ

Big Jump! Poor Caiden is lost in the big life vest suit

It's hard to see in the picture but Caiden is kicking his feet and moving his hands it's official he is a frog

the big kids were diving for pool toys

kick kick kick - and he is off

Saturday got to love it

2007-05-12T21:50:00.000-07:00

I put suncreen on the kids but not me once we got home Christy was nice enough to put aloe on my burn. Caiden walked in to see my big ouch and said "my Katie thank you put sun screen on me " so sweet

He kids enjoyed a game of horse while we got ready for the BBQ

Caiden picked flowers in his new cars outfit we got at cost co

Everything is cars right now !

they all feel asleep on the way home from the beach

My dad had never been to the dog beach so we had to show him

Caiden was very concerned about the water so he rode up high

Emma needed a bath to get all the saltwater and sand off

walking back to the car

So after losing 6 pounds I thought I could wear a suit in public

not a good idea

Bryan brought work to the beach ON A SATURDAY! at least he came with us

Caiden came for a visit

2007-05-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Emma let Caiden wear her beach hat

We always run to the park - duh why would we walk?

Daniel had some trouble on the slide

I can Fly

Emma loves her hat

He sat very still so the lady could cut his hair straight

Happy Birthday Bryan

2007-05-05T14:52:00.000-07:00

Our Anniversary was wonderful

2007-04-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

Bryan got me a BIKE! so we of course rode on the beach

Celebrate

2007-04-24T20:17:00.000-07:00

Yes Bryan actually left the computer for an hour or so .... the event our anniversary! We all went to dinner to celebrate.

We ended up at red robin a favorite of the kids. Yes those are onion rings and no they are not on the approved diet. Special events don't count right?

The day is thursday April 26th so this was the dinner with the kids. Bryan will have to leave the computer again Saturday when he is taking me (somewhere) .........

Kyle and Lindsay Naffin are home from the hospital

2007-04-21T22:24:00.000-07:00

Lindsay woke up for a minute

Christy holding Lindsay

Dave was trying to wake her up enough to eat

Caiden saying hi to his new cousins

Working on the baby books - we even got foot prints done on both babies and foot / Hand prints done for Kyle. So glad I had my notary stuff.

Auntie Melissa with Kyle

Lindsay likes to sleep and Kyle likes to be awake so far ..... we will have to see as they settle in at home

Great Grandma is 86!

2007-04-21T17:33:00.000-07:00

Birthday Party for Great Grandma Helen

Caiden even colored us a picture (notice the blue marker on his nose)

Caiden told Daniel and Chrisy's Great grandma all about the flower shop.

The kids played baseball

I like Daniel and Caiden are ready for cake

Happy Birthday Grandma

How to enjoy a weekend

2007-04-17T22:16:00.000-07:00

go for a ride

Lay Around

Relax with the family pet

Laugh

nap

Going back in time

2007-04-17T21:48:00.000-07:00

this kid loves shrimp he is so happy

I don't actually remember this day but we look happy don't we ?

These pictures are BS (before the stroke) it has been a very long eight months. I would love to say I have achieved much but I have been holding on to a lot of hurt. I have decided that it is time to let go, what happened is over and it is time to move on. A lot to be thankful for I have a wonderful family and extended family , a job and a chance to start over ( not just with the bank account). I will not take my job title or my $ to heaven, so I am done trying to please people don't worry I am not going to wear all black and stop paying taxes. I am just going to be me without imput and without judgement.