{ smile }

I love to Scrapbook with...

2011-01-13T18:17:00.001-08:00

2010-08-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

Just finished a 5 day conference on this AWESOME curriculum!

Did you know I am Certified?

2010-08-01T10:33:00.001-07:00

Check This Out

2010-08-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

2010-02-25T14:08:00.001-08:00

This is my Bird of Art creation. Hope you like it.

I have a macbook

2010-01-08T10:01:00.000-08:00

So...I got a mac book only I can't figure out how do get to my pictures to upload them. They are in pictures>iphoto>etc. but the iphoto is grayed out when I try to upload. The only success I've had is dragging and dropping them onto my desktop and then I can upload them to say shutterfly or whatever. Any help?

Joseph's First Day of School

2009-05-08T07:12:00.000-07:00

Arkansas 2009

2009-02-27T07:29:00.000-08:00

In January we spent a week in Arkansas visiting the newest member of our family Henry. It was my second time seeing my newphew but it was the kids first time to meet their sweet cousin. We ended up in an ice storm which took out the power for FOUR days and it was such an adventure. A memory we will never forget for sure. It also snowed so we got to play in front of the house and sled down the street. So much fun...we had a hard time leaving.

Abstract Art by Robbie

2008-10-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

Look Who

2008-10-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

Look who's playing football!

2008-10-17T17:09:00.001-07:00

I heard this song today

and I was prompted to pray.

I sat there, saddness brewing,

while life ahead stood looming.

As if I'm in a waiting room

I wait for life to resume.

With each breath I exhale

I know I will prevail.

For, It's by the wind and the waves

that I've learned how to praise.
*****click HERE to listen to the song...

B R A C E S

2008-10-03T19:21:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday John

2008-10-02T07:43:00.000-07:00

We MISS You! Sorry your sick on your birthday, we will pray for you to feel better. Don't get Henry sick! Love, R,M,B,R,J,G, and B,G,G,M (woof)

The Natural

2008-10-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

Grace went to a party...it was a costume dress up party and they had a fashion show. My daughter on the cat-walk was a natural. Scary! She loves the camera and I think the camera loves her right back!

Another Birthday for Rob

2008-09-21T18:39:00.000-07:00

Another birthday and it seems like we just celebrated the last one! The years go by quickly! We didn't do anything fancy. Just a few presents and some favorites. Robbie made one of Dad's childhood favorite recipes: Open-faced, sourdough, cheeseburgers. I made another one of Dad's favorites...Date rolls. And, since NO ONE else likes these 'date rolls,' Dad got them all to himself. I should add that Grace plugged her nose as she stood on the stool next to me while I made them. I have never EVER seen this girl plug her nose at any food before, EVER.

My Ringtone When My Marlowe Calls

2008-09-16T07:25:00.000-07:00

It's Not My Time by Three Doors Down

Looking back of the beginning of this

And how life was

Just you and m

loving all of our friends

Living life like an ocean

But now the currents

slowly pulling me down

It’s getting harder to breath

It won’t be too long

and I will be the one under

Can you save me from this?

Cause it’s not my time

I’m not going

There’s a fear in me

it’s not showing

This could be the end of me

And everything I know

Ooohh but I won’t go

I look ahead to all the plans that we made

And the dreams that we had

I’m in a world that tries to take them away

Oh but I’m taking them back

Cause all of this time

I' ve been just too blind to understand

what should matter to me.

My friend, this life we live,

it’s not what we have, It’s what we believe in!

Cause it’s not my time I’m not going

There’s a fear in me but it’s not showing

This could be the end of me

And everything I know

But it’s not my time I’m not going

There’s a will in me and now I know

that This could be the end of me

And everything I know

Ooohh but I won’t go

I won’t go

There might be more than you believe

(There might be more than you believe)

There might be more than you can see

But it’s not my time I’m not going

There’s a fear in me it’s not showing

This could be the end of me

And everything I know

But it’s not my time

I’m not going

There’s a will in me and now it’s gonna show

This could be the end of me And everything I know

Ooohh

There might be more than you believe

(There might be more than you believe)

There might be more than you can see

But I won’t go

No, I won’t go down

Yeah

Fight Like A Girl!

2008-09-15T20:18:00.000-07:00

Less than 24 hours from now...Marlowe will have her surgery. Please keep her in prayer. My MIL (mother-in-love) sent me this pin to wear and I love what it says, "Power Of Pink: Fight Like A Girl"

Please pray with me.

Princess Aurora

2008-09-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

Some things don't change...like Grace's love for Sleeping Beauty.

LABOR DAY at Knob Hill

2008-09-11T21:21:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to post a picture on my new and improved blog!! Thanks so much E-bug for making me pretty like you! I picked this photo to debut my new look. Aren't the children just beautiful!

First Day of School

2008-09-06T00:08:00.000-07:00

Look at these cute kids!

We started school on Thursday, although we have been doing a little bit here and there for the past couple of weeks. It's very different to homeschool 4 kids especially since the last time I homeschooled, I only had 2 students! I see that I am going to have to invest in some well thought lesson plans for the year. Enjoy the pics of all these cuties! Aren't they getting SO Big!

Barry's Bday #12

2008-08-24T12:38:00.001-07:00

I have to rewind time just a bit and post a photo of Barry on his birthday. He is getting older and he is more analytical than ever!

A-Camping-We-Did-Go / High-Ho-The-Merry-O

2008-08-23T19:52:00.000-07:00

We did it! We went camping and we made it home. If I were not so stinking tired, I would say more. But that is ALL for now!

2008-08-15T12:16:00.000-07:00

In case any of you doubted how much my sweet Henry-ree likes his BrickBoy...here is the proof!

Isn't he the most beautiful baby (I mean Henry-ree, not BrickBoy of course). This was taken a few months ago, but I never tire of seeing it ;)

Now, I hear that he is rocking back and forth on his front arms and 'crawling' backward. It made me cry to think of him growing so much and I can't see it up close and personal.

2008-08-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Blueberries...not in season anymore. This is what 50 cents of Blueberries looks like!!
Yesterday, I couldn't help getting one last pack (since I love them on my cereal) and I paid $4.99 for 93 blueberries. YES! I counted them.

2008-07-13T21:10:00.000-07:00

MEET Brick BOY!

This is brick boy. We bought him at Legoland...and he was the only one of his kind!

We shipped him off to my baby nephew Henry-ree and we hear they are best buddies.

We can understand why because we had some fun of our own with Brick Boy before he left.

2008-07-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

2008-05-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday SixBit

I have been so full of thought today. I had plans today to do this and that but when we came home from dropping the boys at school...the dirt called. My mom had been germenating some seeds with Grace that I had bought to do. Pinky inspired me to do this after my last trip to her house. It was time to transfer some over to their own little pots. But when that was done, we started raking some weeds, then moved a withering gardenia into a pot for some shade. When I went to water, I found my bougainvillea plant was actually growing but wildly...so I took a trellis with a 90% dead star of jasmine out of the ground and moved it to where the bougainvillea was then worked really hard to get the two planted together and intertwined on the trellis. I kept thinking, I wonder if either will ever bloom? and if they do it will always remind me of this day, SixBits bday. I guess being in the garden was the best place for me to spend my day. My hands could be busy while my thoughts processed. So much loss, pain, grief, suffering...so much growth...spiritual growth.

"How can He (God), in giving Him (Jesus), lavish on us all things." Rom 8:32

He can't help but to lavish us with good things, having already given us His greatest.

And, so, even this untimely suffering is perfect timing and a good thing from the very hand of God. I beg the Lord for sweet mercies to fill this day for my loved Bug family!!!

2008-05-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

Annibelle Klein

10/31/98 - 5/17/08

I love this photo of Annibelle taken only a few months ago. You can really see her smile. She was such a happy dog and loved chasing the tennis ball. I know that it hurt her to run with such bad hips but she couldn't resist the tennis ball. Out of all the dogs we have, she was THE ONLY one that would get the ball and bring it back...the other dogs didn't dare interfere. Also, she would only bring it back to Rob or I. The kids would have fun trying to get it from between her paws and she would nip at their hands and growl under her breath. She had the softest ears you ever touched and this beautiful snow white chest. I remember the night I brought her home, I laid on the couch with her on my chest. She was such a little puppy...10 weeks old. I laid there and thought of all sorts of different names...I finally ended with Belle because her eyes reminded me of Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Of course, being a 'pure bread' (even though poorly bread), I had to make it sound regal, so I lengthened it to Annibelle. She went by Anni, Belle, Bellzer, etc. You know how we Kleiners have our own Kleinspeak.

I remember that after having her only a few short months, she got out through our open garage (I wont say who left it open, but I will say I was so mad at him!). We posted up fliers all day on Saturday. On Sunday morning we went to church. Those were the days when Pastor Paul would ask the congregations if they had any prayer requests. To our great surprise, Barry Michael (as he was called back then) raised his hand and Paul called on him. He said in his small four year old voice, "My dog ran away because I didn't play with her." I think everyone in the congregation gasped at the sorrow of this small voice. I was horrified that he was taking the blame on himself. Pastor Paul graciously prayed for her return. After church, I remember Dan, Dan and Mic, in a circle talking about how God hears the prayers of little children. Grown men were heartbroken over the sincerity of my little boy.

She had been gone for Friday night, Saturday night and now it was Sunday. We had the Guess family over to celebrate Robbie's 2nd birthday and we all tried to focus. Edie kept saying that she thought she heard whimpering, but we never found anything. That night, I laid down on the floor by the front door and just cried. Thinking of how helpless she was and how little. I prayed that at the least, someone had found her and would take good care of her. I then thought of how painful it would be to lose a child, knowing that the grief I was feeling was already so devastating. I prayed for those who were missing their children. At last, I decided to take a sleeping pill because I hadn't slept for two days. And I knew it was time to move on.

Hours later, in the middle of the night, I was groggily awoken by Rob saying, "Look who's back!" Barry Michael and I sat up (he was sleeping with us because he was so sad). The joy! The smiles and laughter! Both Barry Michael and I hovered over Rob as he bathed her in the tub.

To think, it was only earlier that morning that a little pudgy hand had raised tentatively to ask for prayer.

In the years to come, she put us through more agony...turning out to be epileptic and going into seizures that would scare us, each time not knowing if she would make it through. The phenobarbital aged her more quickly and she became a little more grumpy in her old age. When Boston came home, she snubbed him. She had lived with us so long, she was certain she was human. But, after more and more dogs came along...she actually began to realize she was a dog and would act like it from time to time. We felt like we had our own pack and had fun observing how packs interact...

I'm probably boring you all by now, but it has been therapeutic for me to remember her. Remember her zurking through the house (especially after a bath); zurk up the couch, up the back of the couch and do a 180 turn back down the couch.

But, my fondest memory of all, is how she comforted me after Rob's dad died. At night, when I couldn't sleep and Rob laid beside me asleep. I would grieve and mourn for the pain of my husband, sons and myself. It was then, when no one was awake that I could feel my sorrow and cry quietly. I wanted to be held but did not want to disturb my hubby who needed his sweet hours of sleep when he could rest from grief. Those were the nights, that I pulled her up to my chest and buried my eyes. She curled up in a ball and let me hold her, she let me just cry quietly and she was just there for me...there for me, so that during the day, I could be there for everyone else. She rescued me in as much as I rescued her from that horrid puppy mill. And the last think she heard before she died was my voice...saying, "that's a good girl Annibelle, good girl." Robbie and Joey each with a hand on her back, tears flowing and my forehead on hers.

When the doctor said she was gone...we cried. Huddled in a corner of the room, we hugged each other and prayed. We thanked God for giving us dominion over the animals, we thanked God for allowing Adam to name each animal as he walked the garden and we thanked God for blessing us with such gifts of pleasure. Thanked God for loving us SO much that He created wonderful furry friends to teach us how to love His creation. With our Amen's we gave her one last pat on the head and closed the door behind us.

2008-03-31T12:03:00.000-07:00

"Today, she will be a little girl, out

of step, and tuned in completely to a

world of bliss bubbles all in the perfect circle

of her swirling tutu, undisturbed."

2008-02-20T08:26:00.000-08:00

Last night, Stacy went home to Heaven. While I rejoice to think of the perfect worship she at this moment enjoys, I am filled with empathy for her loved ones, especially her daughters and husband. Please keep them all in your prayers. (For those that do not know, Stacy is a friend and neighbor of my dear friend E-bug who has suffered her own loss. We have been praying for Stacy and her untreatable pancreatic cancer since she was diagnosed in January.)

A Parable of Immortality

I am standing upon the seashore.

A ship at my side spreads her white sails

to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean.

She is an object of beauty and strength,

and I stand and watch her until at length she hangs

like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky

come down to mingle with each other.

Then someone at my side says "There! She's gone."

Gone where? Gone from my sight--that is all.

She is just as large in mast and hull and spar

as she was when she left my side,

and just as able to bear her load of living freight

to the place of destination.

Her diminished size is in me, not in her;

and just at the moment

when someone at my side says,

"There! She's gone,"

there are other eyes watching her coming,

and other voices ready to take up the glad shout,

"There she comes!"

And that is Dying!

--Henry Van Dyke -circa 1911

2008-02-20T07:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday B-Bug! I'm so glad I got to come and see you for your B-day! I miss you lots and can't wait to see you again! Don't forget to save that spot on your cast for me to sign...I almost cried when I remembered that I didn't sign your cast!!! Your mama kept me so busy...I was too tired to remember anything! Love you lots! --SillyBug

2008-02-03T22:28:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary!

I just want to say that being married to you has been God's greatest gift to me. Twelve years and four kids later...I love you more than ever. I am constantly amazed at the patience you have for me. You are a wonderful father and the perfect husband for me. Thank you for loving God whole heartedly. Thank you for dedicating your time to our family. Thank you for making me feel like I am the most beautiful woman in the world. Thank you for making me feel safe...always filling my car with gas, seeing the tires are low in the dark at 4 a.m! Thank you for being a role model for our boys, coaching them in sports and in Scripture. I love how you work at loving each child in their own unique way. I am so in love with you and I can't thank God enough for blessing me with your faithful devotion.

2008-01-21T09:30:00.000-08:00

COUSINS ROCK!

2008-01-07T06:05:00.000-08:00

Henry Hamilton

WELL, Pinky, since you asked! Here are the pics of my sweet SWEET sweet nephew, Henry!!!

He's too cute. The kind of cute with sugar and spice on top!!! He's a handsome little man with with frog legs and each kiss reminds us he's already turned into a prince!!! But for some reason, we keep forgetting and kiss him again...and again...and again!

Without further ado, I give you Henry!!!!

2008-01-01T15:58:00.001-08:00

TEXAS TECH WINS
So, I'm not a football fanatic or anything...but I gotta say it's cool that TT won their bowl game today. After all, Brent's last night was spent watching his team win and they took that victory all the way to the bowl!!! I know that where Brent is, he's got a lot more exciting things going on than this game...but, heck...we're still here and...these are the memories he left us with, so, here's to his team making a great come-back from behind!!!

Alex Trlica kicked a 41-yard field goal

with seven seconds left to give Texas Tech

a 31-28 come-from-behind victory

over No. 21 Virginia in a wild Gator Bowl today.

2007-12-29T21:58:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas
to my Bugs!!!
I love you all and I miss you all!
and that's THAT!

2007-12-22T11:02:00.000-08:00

Enourmous HEEEEEED!

So I keep getting comments from people that they don't know why I say "heeeeed" instead of head. It dates back to a classic scene played by Mike Myers in "So I Married An Axe Murderer." (A silly flick if you haven't seen it. ) So, I searched and found and here it is....

And, at Pinky's request, here is the "ditty"...

Henry's Birth by Marchelle Klein

I would have been calling today

and asking you to PRAY...

But God heard little ol' me

and my friend Julie D.

Now baby Hank is finally here

bringing with him Christmas cheer.

Jax pushed for hours

a total of three.

Then the doc said

"It's time for a C."

We're not surprised,we all agreed...

It's because of John's Gi-normous heeeeeed!

The new family is doing great.

to see baby Hank, we can't wait!!!

But, it seems John has passed down

his baby nick name..."Charlie Brown!"

2007-12-20T23:32:00.000-08:00

Look who came in time for Christmas!!

Introducing ....

Henry Hamilton

6 lbs. 14 oz.

20.5 inches

December 19th

Isn't he just the sweetest little man.

I'm so proud!!!

I get to go and visit him on Jan 4th! And I just can't wait.

2007-12-18T10:35:00.000-08:00

O Boy! O Henry! O Boy!

My Sister-in-love is in the hospital...we may have a baby soon!!!

Keep her and my brother Big J in your prayers!

2007-12-09T21:16:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Robbie!!! You did it. Your team is guaranteed at least 2nd place in the AYSO regionals. You battle it out on January 12th for the title. Go Robbie D. The D stands for DEFENSE!!!

2007-12-06T20:27:00.000-08:00

This is Jezelle! She is the new princess in the newest Disney Princess movie, Enchanted. Gracelyn was very excited to meat her when we went to the El Capitan theater today. ALL of the princesses were there...Ariel, Aurora, Snow White, Jasmine, Cinderella, Belle...I have photos to prove it. Gracelyn was in her element and showed off her "princess arms" to each princess. Oh, so fun. But, I am exhausted. We just drove our neighbor's golf cart all around the neighborhood looking at Christmas lights and this has been a very long day (with lots of traffic on the 101 and 405!). Is it Friday yet??

2007-12-04T17:31:00.000-08:00

Seriously...my brother sent this to me and...I almost peed my pants. If you were me growing up...you watched a lot of Karate Kid. My dad liked to pretend he was Mr. Miyagi. I just don't what else to say...Barry asked why I thought this video was funny and I said, "you just had to be me growing up." Perhaps you will find it amusing OR maybe it will just reinforce your suspicions about just how weird I really am. Either way, in the words of Mr. Miyagi "Man who catch fly with chopstick accomplish anything"

2007-12-03T18:33:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday PopPop

2007-11-28T06:52:00.000-08:00

2007-11-25T08:46:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Friends and Family!

ISAIAH 61:1-3, 10-11

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me (Jesus),

Because the Lord has anointed Me (Jesus)

To preach good tidings to the poor;

He (God) has sent Me (Jesus) to heal the brokenhearted,

To proclaim liberty to the captives,

And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;

To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord,

And the day of vengeance of our God;

To comfort all who mourn,

To console those who mourn in Zion (the church),

To give them beauty for ashes,

The oil of joy for mourning,

The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;

That they may be called trees of righteousness,

The planting of the Lord, that He (God) may be glorified."

...I will greatly rejoice in the Lord,

My soul shall by joyful in my God;

For He has clothed me with the garment of salvation,

He has covered me with the robe of righteousness,

As a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments,

And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

For as the earth brings forth its bud,

As the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth,

So the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.

AMEN!

2007-11-17T09:51:00.000-08:00

So...I got this Question from my friend PurpleBug in London. She was looking at E-bug's blog and wondered what in the heck I was holding in my hand...So...in case anyone else is wondering (and because I love to show off how nerdy I am), I will answer the question here in my blog and put everyone's minds to rest.

The item I am holding is a "nature made" KYD-21 blaster pistol. Although expensive, it was the favored weapon by bounty hunters and assasins in the decades leading up to the establishment of the Galagtic Empire because of its impressive stopping power as well as its subtlety. First seen in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones, it was used by many during the clone war battle. The most well known carrier was Jango Fett.

Check out the photo of B holding my pistol and I'm sure you can see the resemblance. Mind you, mine is a customized blaster pistol and Jango Fett's is a stock issue.

I hope that you have all found this educational and useful. Remember, I am always happy to answer any of your Blog questions and in full detail...So, please, do not hesitate to ask.

Your's truly,

SillyBug

2007-11-15T19:02:00.000-08:00

Look ...

This explains it! Now I understand where my Princess G gets it from...

In the previous post she was simply doing Cinderella's pose (upper right corner for those that are princess challenged!) Do you see the resemblance? I do!

2007-11-14T07:14:00.000-08:00

She's ALL Mine

My princess...

She finally got a chance to sit on the princess throne all by herself and this is how she poses! I love it!!!

2007-11-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

Today Is Day 1
My mother-in-love started the first of three days in the Susan G. Komen walk today. We spent a greater part of the day with her in our prayers. I believe that she walked from the Del Mar Fairgrounds to Mission Bay today...but I could be wrong. Anyway, I know the bulk of the walk takes place the first two days and it is only like 13 miles on Sunday...ONLY!!!

My mom, G and I went down to visit on Wednesday and take her this "heart wand" we made to carry on Saturday. On one side it says "Sufficient Grace" and on the other side it says "Faith Triumphs In Troubles." Each has a scripture reference but I am a bit tired to think clearly right now. I know one was Romans and the other was I Corinthians. Mother-in-love really liked the wand and is nervours/excited for the walk. I'm sure she did fabulous today but there are no cell phones or music allowed. I add music to that sentence because it just shocks me. The event encourages the participants to get to know each other. I can understand it but...no music!!!

For G's bday, M-in-Love took us to this new place (a division of build a bear) called Friends 2b Made. G was very serious (as she often is in first time situations) but is in love with her new "friend." She took her to D-land for her birthday and introduced her to all of the princesses she met. Of course she named the new friend "Rora Princess" (which means Aurora as in

Sleeping Beauty, for those of you not up to date on your princess trivia).

I'll post some d-land pics soon but i have to get some sleep before the Princess Tea Party I am hosting tomorow for someone's birthday!!! In the meantime, please pray for my mother-in-love as she attempts to sleep in a tent outdoors.

2007-11-05T11:01:00.000-08:00

THE TIME IS NOW... this second

Happy Birthday to my BUG!!! You inspire me to be content in whatever state I am. (phil. 4:11)

2007-11-02T14:46:00.000-07:00

To Wig or Not Wig?

O.k. If you don't know already, I have the biggest girly girl in the galaxy. She could not have been happier. She was so excited to be dressed up. And! She had been waiting for months to wear the WIG!!! That was carefully put up high in the closet. Once she got it on...she realized it was a little itchy and a little cumbersome, but it was all about being "pretty" so it didn't matter. UNTIL...Daddy said the wig was "c-r-e-e-p-y." Then she wanted her hair like Dorothy's instead of the wig. Thanks DAD! After having done her hair up carefully to stay under the wig, we went back into the bathroom for take two.

I have to agree that her own hair was beautiful as Dorothy hair. She was so excited to wear mama's make-up too...blush, blush and more blush.

All in all, we had a great night. Once we got to church and she saw the jumper, the red slippers flew off her feet and she was off to jump away. Dress up is definitely her thing.

2007-10-31T11:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Reformation Day!

Wishing everyone a safe celebration of God preserving HIS WORD through the ages. Click on the picture above of the 95 Thesis for a related article in the Daily Breeze.

2007-10-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

Can you help?

My Mother-in-Love is participating in this 3 day breast cancer walk/run for breast cancer. As many of you know, she is a breast cancer survivor (yip-eee). Everyone has someone who has been effected by cancer. If you are able, she is very VERY close to reaching her monetary goal. Please consider donating to this very important cause. Any dollar amount is helpful and none is too small! Click HERE to go to her site and contribute.

2007-10-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

Out Buggin'

I saw this hydrant and thought of the fires back home. I hope they are contained...

It has been nice to breathe the fresh air out here in N.M. The weather has been beautiful. Church was wonderful today and I am excited to see my mon-chee-chees (oh so soft and cuddly) tomorow. I can't wait to come back out and hang with my BugFamily.

2007-10-23T19:06:00.000-07:00

Sew much fun!

We ladies can make some noise!!! The scissors were snipping, the iron was steaming and the fabric was flying...from room to room that is! It was cut in one room (thank you Barb, Janet, Julie, Reina, Staci & Shannon), then run to another room for stablizer iron on (by the lovely Aunt Fluffy), then off to the machines (thank you Debbie, Reina and Maria).

Meanwhile, Sandipants was busy directing the youth group girls and some non-sewing inclined women on making themed tag booklets....drumroll....they completed 250 books!!! Thank you Holly for bringing the youthgroup girls to our event! Thank you Deb, Beth, Michelle and Vicki for your awesome help!

Thank you to my hubby who set up and brought the drinks. Thank you to Wags for bringing the food and Jenny who made the "boy-stealer" cookies! They were scrumptious. Thank you to Pam and Jen for visiting. And thank you to our old neighbors who helped out last minute with paper goods (including T.P.), chairs and extra tables.

All that said...I just sat around and did nothing!

2007-10-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

I DID IT!

I may not power these bags out as fast as E-bug...but I did it. No...it was not as simple as she made it out to be. I was very glad to get a seam ripper form Pammerama. But overall, I felt very accomplished. It was my first time ever using a pattern! I hadn't used my sewing machine in so long that I had forgotten how to thread it. That took 30 minutes in itself. But today I did two bags at once and almost completed both. I just have to sew the straps on one and they will both be done. Wonder how many I'll get done tomorow.

2007-10-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

Again, with the GAK

Home Again - I brought back some borax from E-bugs house and we had some fun making more gak. Joseph thought it was funny when he made "pants" (see photo above). Grace found the only way to really make a mess with Gak is by putting it on your clothes...ugh. All in all, it was more Gakky fun.

2007-10-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

GAK!!!
I made GAK today with B and C! I have always wanted to make GAK but I have never been able to find Borax near my home.

But my friend already had it in her kitchen! B and C had been telling me about "Oooblik" and wondering if that was the same as GAK but once we made it they decided that they were NOT the same. They had so much fun playing with the GAK and after an hour B said, "I have no more laughs left!" It was so funny. B made mustard colored GAK, C made blue colored GAK and when A came home from school, she made lavendar GAK. If you are wondering...GAK is like slime-ee, cold, goo...it comes from the Flubber Family!

2007-10-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

Missing Arkansas

I have been thinking a lot about how much fun we had in Arkansas visiting UJ & AJ. When I saw this photo come across my screen saver, I laughed out loud. This photo was taken on our hike at Devil's Den in West Fork. each of the kids got a walking stick. The air was hot and sticky so the boys ditched their shirts. G was dissapointed when she didn't get to ditch hers too!

2007-10-13T17:54:00.000-07:00

Hangin' In Albuquerque

Hi all, I'm here in Albuquerque with E-bug. The Parkinsons are all here and we honored and celebrated BG's life yesterday at his memorial service. The message was so powerful and motivating. The pastor started the message in Hebrews talking about how Abraham was counted faithful--then went to Genesis to explain his faithfulness to the point of sacrificing his own/only son--that segwayed into Christ's sacrifice and the gospel message. He then went on to explain how BG knew what it menat to be counted faithful. He said the BG could afford to die and followed with a poignant question, "Can YOU afford it?" He said BG's death had got everyone's attention for a reason. God wanted everyone's attention. He said that BG would not have wanted to leave his wife and children...but he could AFFORD it; not because he was perfect but because he had faith in Christ and the salvation from Christ was his. He said that no one was more surprised by BG's death than BG himself! To have gone to sleep saying goodnight to his family and open his eyes in God's presence...just contemplate that for a moment....

There were estimated to be 460 in attendance. The chappel only held 350. More than 100 people stood in the lobby, in overflow and along side the walls of the chappel, the Parkinsons being one of them.

After the service, we proceeded to the burial site. It was park-like and E-bug was able to point out to the children a picnic taking place. The kids were happy to know they could visit this place anytime. The pastor offered up some more scripture and then we went to the reception at the church. The church was decorated with so many fun photos of BG (many of which he had a mullet in). There was food and the Dallas Cowboy's flag was hanging proudly. The same flag that Branch gave the family when they moved away from California.

It was a long day. It was full of tears and laughter, prayers and praise. E-bug's time in the limo with her children and parents (including BG's) was a blessed time. They prayed in transit wherever they went. The Holy Spirit's presence was strong and there was great peace.

At home later that night, we all fell like flies. So much emotion. As the kids started to wind down and go to bed. E-bug was able to talk a bit about the day and the blessings she received. She talked of how humbled she was by all those people. She talked about how BG's death would make an impact on many souls and God would use it to convert more souls. She and A perused the pages of the sign in book and were amazed by the many people who signed but they didn't even see.

This morning started with difficulty again. Many days will. We went to C's soccer game at noon. She had dedicated the game to her father and played hard. The game started on bended knee and a moment of silence for BG. The Parkinson's came to the game along with so many others. It was a huge cheering section for the "Snapping Turtles." After the game, A and C went to lunch with the Parkinsons and others went shopping. It was the first time there was some quiet in the house. It was just E-bug, her dad, friend Ross and myself. She was able to rest some and "be".

After a few hours, the house began to fill with loved ones again and by the evening there was a full on basketball game in the driveway and a soccer game on the grass. There was laughter and playfullness, smiles and joy. I couldn't help but watch and think of how much BG would love it. The sun began to set and we headed inside to prepare the defrosted casseroles.

Dinner is done now, the dishes are put away. The apple pie is half eaten and visitors are saying goodbye. Tonight will be another opportunity to catch up on our sleep. We will wake and go to church in the morning, where I will hopefully have a chance to thank the pastor for his message at the service.

Many loved ones will be leaving tomorow for their homes. Please pray for the safe travel of all. Edie's dad and sister will be headed home for treatments during the week. It has been a long and emotional week filled with grief, praise and dependence. Everyone has leaned on one another. Because of E-bug and BG's various moves, several saints have been joined together from states all over. It has been wonderful to experience the "holy catholic church" as described in the Apostle's Creed.

The Allison's left after the burial by plane. The Parkinson's drove out tonight for Durango. E-bug and the kids were so SO blessed by their presence. I will sign the book with my name and the names of all the branchkins I spoke with that expressed their condolences. Though you were not here in body, I caried you all with me in spirit. Your prayers and words have given me strength and have raised E-bug up so that she can offer praise in the midsts of her grief.

I miss my kids and my hubby but I know I am not quite done here. I have made new friends that will last a lifetime. I have received so many blessings from E-bug's family and BG's. It is easy to see why they are the incredible people that they are.

I apologize for my delay in posting. There has been much to do and recover from...I also have larengitus so I can't really talk on the phone. I look forward to seeing you all when I return. I will bring an audio of the service home and I may even have the video biography with me. I sent an articly home with Mr. Parkinson talking about Matt Napier, friend of BG, who is running the Hawaii Iron Man today in BG's memory. Last we checked he had 9 mi. to go and was in the 500's in terms of place. Amazing. BG was his inspiration for training and becoming involved in races.

I will be in touch. There are some pics here from C's soccer game. The one of C standing in the middle is a fun act of love that her teammates did before giving her a card at the game's end.

2007-10-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

Makes me LAUGH OUT LOUD!!!

2007-09-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Can you say...

BIG and RICH yip-ha

Last night we went to the LA County Fair for the Big and Rich concert. It was the boys first concert ever. We had a great time walking around the fair and the kids won prizes and went on some rides.

It was so much fun to hang out with just the older kids. They are growing up so fast. Robbie and Barry both said their favorite part of the night was the concert. Barry especially liked sitting next to the lady that danced like crazy the whole show...NOT.

Robbie's runner up was the ride "Starship 2000" which is an anti gravity ride that sucks you up to the walls. Barry's runner up was when he tried to pitch the ball into a catcher's mitt. Three out of four hits would win a major league jersey. He didn't hit the mitt but I was amazed at how close he came EVERY time, reason being, he was pitching from the same distance as the major leagues!!! His arm hurt afterwards. His talent and ability amaze me.

We snacked on kettle corn, ice cream cones, hot dogs and shaved ice. The kids went through two fun houses and one with funny mirrors that made them laugh. They were both too chicken to go in the haunted house. They worked together to get ping pong balls in red floating bowls to get a Strawberry Shortcake doll for their sister. Barry pitched some balls at some plates and broke them to get a monkey for Joey. Rob forked out the $5 bills and I just smiled as we walked. It was cold but as long as we kept on walking we kept warm enough. Besides, I hadn't worn my cowboy boots in several years...it felt great!

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid823406628/bclid823354850/bctid483268707

2007-09-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

Swim Lessons ... ALL SUMMER LONG

Every day for six weeks, we went to Akai and did swim lessons for Joseph and Robbie. The kids were fish! I couldn't believe how fast they took to going under water. By the end of the summer they were both swimming. Can't wait for next summer now!

2007-09-23T15:53:00.000-07:00

Reunion 2007

It was great to make our annual trip to Ojai and see all the girls from our trip to China. This year was especially fun because the girls were all so much more independent. The parents were all able to talk in a somewhat adult like fashion. We caught up on each others lives and chatted about how well our girls are doing. We all continue to feel blessed beyond measure. Ten out of 13 girls were able to make this years reunion...whoo hooo!

2007-09-23T15:40:00.000-07:00

Vader is no match for Jedi Joseph

I would attempt to dialogue on this clip...but honestly, what more can I say. It is every little boys dream to fight the dark side and so few are chosen! The fact that Uncle John was there to film/watch is only the iceing on the cake. The force is strong with this one...

2007-09-23T15:23:00.000-07:00

Daddy Daughter Dinner Dance (June 30, 2007)

Let me start by saying that I am aghast at how long it has been since I last posted to my blog! My only excuse is that I have been having too much fun with my family. Alas, I am going to go back to the beginning of Summer and try to recap a little of our happenings for you all to enjoy starting with my husband and daughters first date!

We had spent the day in Temecula to visit with family from TX and San Fran, so we were late in getting back to the South Bay for this big date. Hurriedly I did Grace's hair while Rob got dressed and we took some photos in the front yard.

Gracelyn was so proud. Honestly, she never looked more like a princess. When she and daddy got to the church and she saw all of her friends dressed up and dancing, I know she must have thought she had finally found heaven.

She danced some with daddy but as the night progressed, the fathers were allowed to watch as all the girls held hands with each other and danced their hearts away with giggles and smiles.

On the way home, Rob took Grace to 31 Flavors and bought her a chocolate cone. She proceeded to eat it entirely! I couldn't have been more happy to see her when they came home. She was giddy with excitment and self worth. She was glowing from the inside out. When I asked her to tell me all about her date with daddy, she summed it up quite nicely...

"MY DADDY...MY PRINCE."

2007-03-04T20:44:00.000-08:00

Let's Play BALL!

Joseph has started T-Ball. He plays on the Mets and had his first game today. He really enjoyed it. His friends Braden and Roxy are on his team. I was out on the field taking pics of Joey and I heard one of his teammates say, "Who is Roxy?" because she hadn't made it to a practice yet. Braden responded, "Roxy is Joey's girl." Too funny!

Barry is on the Angels this year. His first game was Saturday and he was the starting pitcher. He also hit a triple with an error that brought him home. Later he hit a single and stole two bases. This is his last year in the Minor League; next year he'll be playing in the Majors. He loves baseball and he looks so grown up on the pitcher's mound, so in control and so happy.

2007-01-03T20:17:00.000-08:00

They Call It Puppy Love

Joseph got a puppy from Santa on Christmas morning. It was such a Kodak moment! Joey has always been my 'boyest' boy. He is rowdy and rough, loud and busy, so you can imagine how special it is to see him turn tranquil and tender when he holds his puppy. He is so proud and gentle. Just goes to show, you never know what hidden attributes lay waiting inside the little ones we love. The puppy's name is Mistletoe, "Missy" for short and she is a mix between a Min Pincher and Yorky Terrier.

2006-12-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

2006-11-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

The Morning After...

Looks like turning three wasn't enough excitment for this little girl. She got her hands on some scissors and gave herself a makeover...

I did my best to cover up the lost locks with some short bangs...

2006-11-12T15:40:00.000-08:00

Look Who Is Three!

November 11th, Grace had a birthday. We had a small family gathering and opened lots of presents. Grace was so tickled to have a party. She loved opening all her presents and eating cake.

It's hard to believe that she is growing up so fast! She is talking so much now...a regular little chatterbox. She loves to sing and dance, especially to princess songs.

Ariel and Snow White have joined the ranks with Cinderella and Grace just loves them all. Mom and Dad got Grace a big Cinderella Castle and she just loves it!

2006-09-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

Vroom...Vroom!
Check out Barry and Robbie on the quads! We had a family reunion in Pismo Beach two weekends ago. The boys had a blast riding the quads for their first time.

Unbeknownst to me, I had the flu. I thought I was having digestion problems or food poisoning but with what happened with the kids in Phoenix, I now know it was the flu. Of course, I spent most of my time with my grandma and Uncle Bob, so they both went home from the reunion with the flu. Ugh...I feel so bad about that.

It was great to see my uncles and get to know some of my cousins. Uncle Sam coordinated the shin dig and did a great job. Everyone had a blast. Uncle Ben is such a great dad with my cuz Ryan. Uncle Pete's got a brood of his own with Sean, Allysa and Austin. Austin and Joseph hit it off and Joey called him his "new friend."

The boys had fun playing poker with Uncle Bob and his grandkids. Cousin Tracy was great with the girls and had Allysa and Grace down at the shore gathering sanddollars.

I wish that I had felt better but I'm still glad I was there and got to see everyone!

2006-09-17T21:42:00.000-07:00

Phoenix Flu Bug Attacks...Three Fight Back

The boys were hit with a violent attack of the bug...the flu bug that is. Joseph was the first to go down. I should have listened to him when he said his stomach hurt. We walked into Albertsons to get a few things and.... <1>. By the time I got him into the car, Cuz was getting the items in Albertsons but before she got back <2> all over the car and my sweatshirt (I had just changed him out of his own dirty clothes). I demanded Barry's shirt off his back and got Joseph cleaned up again. For <3> we were able to get him out of the car in time. On the way back to the hotel, <4> made it into a grocery back which he shoved his whole head into. Poor baby! The rest of the night, he vomited ever 60-90 minutes. His little body was quivering and he kept saying, "I want daddy."

Barry was the next to go down. Later Saturday morning he got sick <1>. He had tried so hard to wash his hands and stay clear of the bug but it was no use. <2-5> all happened while mom was at the tradeshow and grandma was left to clean up the poor babe.

Robbie was the last to be struck. Some time in the late afternoon, it was his turn to hold the ice bucket. Joseph had been in the clear throughout the day...but during the night, he got a second wave and...was hit with another 4 rounds of illness.

Staci, mom and I were so tired. Somehow we have made it through and are still amazed that Grace is still standing. Hopefully we can get on the road and head on home tomorrow. The car has been doused with Oust and Fabreeze a zillion times over. Prayerfully, the bug will not come home with us.

2006-09-16T04:44:00.000-07:00

Fun in Phoenix!
Hello! I'm Here in Phoenix for another tradeshow. This time with Creating Keepsakes. But, one major difference from previous tradeshows is that this time I have all four kids in tow. I couldn't resist bringing them to this awesome resort with an incredible water park. It is only used by the resort guests and can you believe the kids have it almost entirely to themselves? You can see from the photos that there is hardly anyone else in the water. Robbie and Barry have gone down the waterslides and NO, Grace did not go down that steep waterslide. She wasn't even happy to be photographed near it!

While I'm off working at the tradeshow, my mom is enjoying the sun and watching the kids play. I must say that I'm more than a tad jealous. I mean, c'mon, who could resist these cool blue waters and stinkin' cute kids! The temp is in the mid to high 90's so that water is a welcome reprieve.

I'm hoping we can make a stop at the tradeshow in Phoenix every year so we can create more memories at this wonderful resort. There are four restaurants on the grounds and on the 2nd night (after setting up the booth all day) we went to the Rustler's Roost. As we walked up the ramp and turned the corner nearing the door, my cousin Staci leaned in and whispered unpleasantly, "it smells like horses." No sooner had her discreet comment come out, when Robbie blurted, "What's THAT smell!" and not because he was referring to a pleasant smell. Now...these are not typical remarks you would expect as you are entering a restaurant...but I must say, we weren't entering a typical restaraunt and I was soon dismayed that the camera had been left behind.

For there standing, larger than life, in a pen before us, was a Huge bull with two beautiful, long horns. He was exquisite (and stinky) and I half expected to see a ring hanging out of his nose! The kids oohed and awwed and we headed inside.

Having made a reservation at the time we booked the hotel, we did not have to wait in the crowd. We were escorted by a cowgirl to the stairs going down to the eating area...BUT, I didn't take the stairs down...I took the slide! That's right, they had a fun slide parallel to the stairs for ALL ages. Of course, Grace E. wanted me to take her down the slide, so I had to oblige and be forwarned, it is a FAST slide. Nothing like a rush of adrenaline to heighten your appetite.

They served warm fried indian rolls and butter, followed by a delicious family style salad. Drinks were served in mason jars and salads were eaten from chilled tin plates. The antique horse and wagon parafanelia was so fun to look at and I thought of my old neighbors, the Beardsleys. They would love this place.

Most of us ordered steak. I had two medallions with swordfish. Mmmmm! It was delish! I dared both Barry and Robbie to order the snake appetizer, but I had no takers... The kids all ordered chicken fingers and fries, except, of course, for Grace E. She had ribs but I ended up snacking on because once she saw Grandma's fresh steamed veggies, she was smitten by the green beans. I am still amazed by her verocious appetite for all veggies.

During the dinner, a magician came and did magic for us. Barry, my ever analytical child, came up to afterward and demanded me to answer "HOW did he get that lime out of the cup? It was too big. That CAN'T be done!" But in fact we saw it be done with our own two eyes. He shook his head and said, "I know he tricked our eyes with his hands. The hands are quicker than the eyes. I just know it." He was more bothered than entertained.

Unfortunately, the night ended on a bad note for Grace E. A balloon artist came up and made balloons for the children. Grace E. said she wanted a flower. She said she wanted a balloon. She said she wanted it pink. But once the balloons were blown and twisted and twisted and small portions were popped and then twisted...she FREAKED. She has a significant fear of a particluar sound...the "pop" sound. "NO POP!" she squeeled, "NO POP!" Try as I could, she would not come out from under her plink blanket. She cried "home, home, home." Joey ordered a green monkey. Robbie ordered a green kitty cat and Barry ordered a blue dog. Finally, I asked my mom to take Grace to see the bull until we could pay the bill and leave. There was no consoleing her. She watched the balloon lady move through the restaurant with trepidation. Poor baloon lady. She felt awful.

Joey must have gone down the slide twenty times during dinner and, balloons aside, it was such a fun evening. Oh, and I almost forgot, the view was beautiful to boot! If you ever have a chance, I highly recommend this sawdust floor covered, boot scootin, live music tootin' restaurant.

2006-09-04T19:30:00.000-07:00

2006-08-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

To Blog or Not To Blog?
So I wasn't very motivated to keep bloggin because I didn't think anyone was every reading my blog. Only one of my girlfriends was posting comments BUT then...I got a call from my hubby asking me to update the blog for his co-workers. I was so excited that someone was interested in my blog. SO...post some comments when you visit and I'll keep updating the blog :)

2006-08-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

Yo Ho, Yo Ho, A Pirates Life For Me
We found it! The Black Pearl right here in Palos Verdes. Can't wait to see the next movie. There have been many sightings of Jack Sparrow in the area...er, I mean, Captain Jack Sparrow.

2006-08-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

Can you say BEACH BUNNY!
Grace loves the beach...she just loves it! She loves to fight her fear of the ocean and run from the waves. You can't help but laugh as you watch her sprint for her life (so she thinks) as the waves creep up on her. If the waves don't get her, she beams with pride as though she has won a gold medal!

Joseph, on the other hand, does not like the beach at all. Almost from the first minute, he is asking to go home. So the chorus goes something like this:
"Mommmmmmm, Can we go home now." Joseph whining
"NO HOME!" Grace demands, "NO HOME!"

It can get unnerving, I must admit. I'm sure it wont be the last thing they disagree on. But being that they are both the babies in the family...they both think they are entitled.

Good thing this is NOT a democracy and I get the last word :)

2006-08-28T16:06:00.000-07:00

A DECADE OF SMILES
So, look at these three handsome boys!!! Aren't they huge? Especially that one in the middle...Can you believe he is 10 years old? I can't. I cannot believe I have a 10 year old son. I can still remember the day he was born and it doesn't seem like it was 10 years ago. He was such a great baby. I remember how Rob would hurry home to our 2 bedroom apartment, just anxious to see his new son. He would play sports with him with soft little rattle balls. He would throw his arms up in the air and say "touchdown" and try and get Barry to copy him. Fortunately, each year is better than the last and, as hard as it is to believe, it is a pleasure to see him becoming a young man!

2006-08-21T12:31:00.000-07:00

It would seem that I only have an opportunity to blog once a month...So here it is. We just returned from another show, this time in the Bay Area.

The show was wonderful. The people were so much fun! I have more photos to upload but not quite yet.

On our last day, we had minutes to cram in San Francisco. So sad that we didn't have more time to play...

2006-07-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

Oh my, my. It has been a very long time since my last post. Suffice to say that Summer is a very busy time. Just came home from CHA (Craft Hobby Association) Summer in Illinois and had a blast with my two very close girls Mar and Bug! What fun we had. It was a crazy time. Sandi could not go to this event because she is too pregnant to fly...so my girls came to the rescue. I don't know what I would have done without them.

We ran into Margie at dinner on Friday night where she was dining with the funny gals from Rubin Rouge in Florida...we shared some good laughs. Saturday night we went to the CHA dinner and saw some hysterical skits by a local Chicago comedy troupe. Sunday night we went to dinner in downtown Chicago with Sophia and Autumn (our LSS: Strictly Scrapbooking Buds) and can I just say that the architecture is beautiful there! Loved looking at all the buildings.

On the way home from dinner, we told stories that made us laugh so hard I thought Sophia was going to drive off the road. Seriously, I laughed so hard I had to ask for a time out before the next story was told, just to catch my breath.

Sure was refreshing to spend time with the girls and be silly.

Notice I talked about what we did in the evenings because there's not much to say about what we did during the day. I mean, c'mon....we sold. We sold and we sold and we sold. It was a fantastic show for us and our new product was a HUGE hit with everyone. We loved watching mouths drop open when we did the product demo.

Time for me to process orders. It is HOT HOT HOT and my body is NOT adjusting well to this heat after being in A/C at the convention center/hotel room the past 5 days.

2006-06-20T14:02:00.000-07:00

SeaMonkeys
Barry has been caring for these sea monkey creatures and now they are mating...ugh!!! A little on the yucky side if you ask me! Enjoy the photo, Pinky...this post is just for you.

2006-06-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

for the birds
we inherited two birds from our special friend Sue who has just moved to Virginia. She is in the air as I type. She gave us her two beloved canaries named Sonny and Cher but she did say we could change their names. We loved Sonny Boy's name but Gracelyn kept thinking that Cher meant to "share" the bird...so we have started to call her "Goldie." Joseph keeps asking which one is the girl and which one is the kid. He even told Dylan this morning, "One is a gurllll and the nother is a kid."

Here's a photo of Goldie aka Cher

2006-06-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

scrapbook expo - san diego
What fun we had in San Diego. It was our very first consumer show which means we sold directly to the customer instead of store owners. It was so exciting to see the response everyone had toward our product! It was loads of fun and lots of work. Our booth looked so cute! My brother John and his beautiful girlfriend Jackie helped make the whole thing a success. They drove the trailer to our warehouse in Sylmar and loaded all the product, drove it down to San Diego, helped set up the booth, sold product with us and tied ribbons on the cans and then tore the booth down at the end. They were such troopers. We were very blessed by their support and dedicated hard work.

In all, we sold almost $7,000 in product! What a great way to kick off our business. Next month we will head to Illinois for the Craft Hobby Association tradeshow where we will unveil at least one more new product.

Thanks for your continued prayers and support!

2006-06-19T21:42:00.000-07:00

family camp
Family camp was a blast...the kids always have so much fun. Paintball is the biggest hit. The boys (Rob, Barry and Robbie) all like to show off their war wounds after and see who has the biggest welts. Robbie won this year. Graceyln, Joey and I spent our time at the pool. I had to leave camp early for the tradeshow in San Diego so I missed the talent show on Thursday night. However, I heard that the kids had a great time and Joey and Grace performed some interpretive dance moves.

2006-06-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Baby Samuel!!

Samuel was born on Tuesday night and weighed in at 8 lbs 11 oz. He's so beautiful. Mommy and baby are doing great. Samuel's blood sugar is not quite regulated after having been dealing with mommy's gestational diabetes. Hopefully he'll be released today and they can all go home and spend some time bonding as a family.

2006-06-05T21:34:00.000-07:00

2 or 3 dogs?
I woke up and had to take a second look...do I have 2 or 3 dogs? Oh! That's just Joey sleeping with his "tail" in the air. He's such an unusual child...

2006-06-05T20:40:00.000-07:00

Houston...We have furniture!!!

How excited are we to cast our lawn chairs out to the, well, lawn! No more lounge chairs in the living room...our furniture arrived from Houston last week. It was so generous of Rob's mom, Suzie, to share all of her beautiful things with us. Amazingly, everything fit like a glove...as if it was bought to go just where it was put! I have to share some photos. My brother and mom worked NON-STOP to make my home so comfortable and beautiful for our house-warming party on Saturday. For three days straight, it was nothing but sweat and more sweat! And, it all paid off. We had such a wonderful evening with all of our friends from church, old neighbors and many new neighbors. The food was spectacular and catered by Rob's very close friend Jack Alexander's new place North Beach Deli. If you live in the area, I highly recommend it! The service was incredible and everyone commented on it.

At the end of the night, we had so many gifts and were humbled by everyone's generosity. We will have to have quite a few dinner partys so that we can share the wonderful bottles of wine we received. Thanks to everyone who came and made our new home celebration such a joyous memory!!! We are truly blessed.

2006-05-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

Bowling Anyone?
Well, we made it bowling for Robbie's bday and there was hardly anyone there! What fun we had. I have to admit, I threw the most gutter balls! Dad-gummit! Barry won both games, but where is the surprise there. He's so good at sports...bowling is a sport isn't it? After bowling, all the boys played two games of lazer tag. It was fun to be together as a family and just hang out. I really got some priceless photos from the bowling caper, so I thought I would have to share!

2006-05-29T17:49:00.000-07:00

A little gardening on Memorial Day. Let's hope Grace E. has a greener thumb than her mommy!

2006-05-28T20:38:00.000-07:00

happy birthday to robbie!
Today we celebrated Robbie's 8th birthday...he has grown up so fast. He loves to be the center of attention so birthdays were made for kids like him.

He got some fun gifts, mostly Power Ranger toys, and had his favorite food for dinner: STEAK. Boy, can he ever put it away. He chowed down three helpings of steak. I admit it was deliscious. My hubby's a master at the grill. Corn on the cob, sticky rice, kilbasa and watermelon made up the rest of the meal. Mmmmmm.

Robbie asked for a chocolate cake with chocolate iceing...so that's what he got. I couldn't resist the trick candles for my little prankster boy. It was very amusing to watch him try and blow out the candles again and again. Although, I wasn't sure I'd want to EAT the cake after all that blowing/spitting on it.

In a couple of nights, we will go to the bowling alley. Robbie wanted to do this for his birthday but, being Memorial weekend, we were told it was the busiest weekend of the year. We're a family that avoids crowds like the plague. It's the homeschool mom in me. I've been spoiled by getting to take the kids out when others are at school and I'm become accustomed to not waiting. In the words of Inigo Montoya, "I hhhate waiting!"

2006-05-26T19:15:00.000-07:00

So, we bought a new house and it came time for Rob to buy a lawn mower...he went out to get one, came home and got right to work. After a while, I decided to take a peek and see how it was going...

To my GREAT surprise, I saw the strangest contraption...somewhat of an antique. "THAT'S the lawnmower you bought!" I said in shock, "I didn't even know they still made that kind!" To which he replied with excitement, "Yeah! It was hard to find." Huh?????????

2006-05-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

So today I spent the day with my son at our warehouse in Sylmar. He was such a great helper! We repaired 100 cans in 2.5 hours. He was so on top of things. I just can't believe how much he has grown up. 100 out of 3,000 may not seem like a lot but it is enough to send out 25 cases tomorow. Yippeee!

In the photo, Barry is standing in front of boxes that are ALL filled with Lazy Scrappers. They go all the way up to the ceiling and there are a few more columns to the left of him that I couldn't get into the photo. He is so enthusiastic about his mama's business.

On our way home from the warehouse, we were both tickled pink to find the carpool lane open on the 405 south. We were so excited. We were on the freeway for 40 minutes! That was really good for the 4 o'clock hour :)

Yesterday we went on a field trip to the Science Center where there is a special Marvel Comics Exhibit going on. There was a great turnout from our church and the kids had a lot of fun. I have to admit that science is simply NOT my thing. I am totally uninterested. The older boys liked it and Joseph had a blast getting mommy's attention to himself (my mom took Grace for the morning). I found myself very thankful to have all these wonderful moms and children in my life. I was thankful that we didn't move and we were able to stay with our wondeful church family.

2006-05-23T23:03:00.000-07:00

Here we go...let's blog! I look at this as a chance to keep a journal. Perhaps I will be more faithful at writing, if I get to type! It seems like a fun way to keep in touch. My sweet friend 'Pinky' has turned me on to this craziness. You can check out her blog in my "friends and family" section at the right.

My daughter is growing up really fast. She is 2 1/2 now. Her little personality is shaping quickly and she is quite amusing (like her brother Joseph). This morning when I went into her room, she was not awake yet. When she heard the door open her eyes fluttered open and she immediately said, "daddy....at work." I thought it was so sweet that the first thought that hit her sleepy little head was about daddy. "Yes," I said, "Daddy's at work. Did you have a good sleepy?"

And that's how today started. It will end with me saying good night right now. I'm off to bed. I'll have to tell you about our field trip tomorow when I can upload some pics.