The Chelette Family

We've crossed over to the Disney side!

2012-01-08T18:10:00.000-08:00

We have officially crossed over to the Disney side! I realize we are one of the last people that I know to get passes, but I'm so excited to take full advantage of these babies!

We had so much fun with our friends from Florida at Disney. Oh how we've missed them....

They know this park inside and out which helped with long lines and getting the biggest bang for our buck. I didn't get very many pictures cause we were having so much fun! We put in a good 16 hour day so we could spend every last second we could with them before they headed home.

We drove there on Thursday night after Matt got off work and went over to Disney to get our passes. Then went back to the hotel and went to sleep.

At 8:00 (which is when they opened), we stepped into Disney and sped over to Space Mountain, got our fast passes, and then rode it. Then ~~ran~~ walked really fast over to Splash Mountain, Indiana Jones, and Thunder Mountain to get our fast passes. In between we went on Pirates of the Carribean and the tree (I forgot what that's called, I'm still a newbie). After that, went to California Adventure and got fast passes for Tower of Terror and California Screamin'. Next, we got our fast passes for World of Color (yellow section) and then went to grab a bite to eat. Then went on Tower of Terror and California Screamin' and then got in line for the Aladdin Show. That show is so funny. It's a must see if you haven't already. Then went back to the hotel for a swim and an hour of relaxing, coffee drinking, and chit chatting. Then went back to California Adventure and ate dinner and got our places for the World of Color. We watched World of Color (we'd never seen it). We were right up front in the middle! Then we finished out our night at Disneyland.

We got back to our hotel at midnight! We felt it too! We are still exhausted today. Now we know we don't have to get it all in in one day because we have passes. This time though, we didn't waste one second of our day and what a perfect day it was!

This is the the "Animation Academy" in California Adventure. We learned how to draw Tigger!

Jumping, jumping, jumping is lots of fun, fun, fun!

2012-01-03T22:01:00.000-08:00

Here are more pictures from our day at Pharoah's Kingdom. Kids and adults had a blast!

What a good lookin' group!

Christmas Pics!

2012-01-03T21:58:00.000-08:00

We're still on Christmas Break

2011-12-31T18:08:00.000-08:00

For our last weekend of Christmas vacation we decided to go out and enjoy this sunny December weather. Weird that it was 78 degrees today. I'm actually hoping colder/wetter weather will come our way soon. In the meantime, we'll enjoy whatever the weather happens to be. This morning we hiked up and down Mt. Rubidoux with some friends and their dog. Drew and Brenden have been friends since they were four which only naturally led us to be friends with their parents. What a blessing!

After our hike I surprised the boys with an impromptu visit to Pharoah's Kingdom. The best part was hanging with their cousins while we were there. They jumped their hearts out and then calmed down with miniature golf.

Christmas Round 4

2011-12-27T08:57:00.000-08:00

This is the view from their backyard.

This was our last Christmas visit. My Aunt Sharon and Uncle Ed had everyone over the day after Christmas to visit and go on a boat ride to see the houses all around the harbor decked out with lights.

This is where I used to go when I was young for most of the holidays. It brings back good memories.

Drew took a lot of these pictures. I noticed he wasn't in any of these pictures and then it dawned on me why.

Sal, Zach, and second cousin August

Jen, Lily, Mom, and Zach (he was such a ham with the camera tonight)

The Captain, Uncle Ed

Christmas 2011 Round 3

2011-12-27T08:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas afternoon was spent at my parent's house. I loved seeing my nieces. I haven't seen Sonia since she was born in August. She's gotten so big. Uncle Matt hardly gets to see them so it was especially special for him. He could have held her all afternoon. It was really cute.

The sisters

Christmas 2011 Round 2

2011-12-26T13:49:00.000-08:00

We always have a little Christmas celebration with just the 4 of us at our house. The boys wake us up, I make coffee and cinnamon rolls and we start with our stockings.

They were so grateful this year! It made both Matt and me smile when they opened up each and every gift they got and said thank you mom and dad. My prayer is always that they grow up to be self-sufficient, gentlemen that love the Lord. It seems to be coming along just fine, but I will never stop praying that prayer!

Dot always wants to be a part of our fun!

Yes, just in case you were wondering, those are underwear on Matt's head. Now you know where the boys get their quirkiness from!

Quick and Easy Dessert Recipe my friend Julie gave me

2011-12-26T13:34:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say thanks to my high school friend Julie (that I was always mistaken for in high school. It got to be quite funny) for this yummy quick and easy recipe that I got from her. I made this for round 4 of our Christmas festivities. For the recipe, see her blog. They are called cream cheese rolls. I taste tested one, and yes, they are delicious! Thanks Julie!

Christmas 2011 Round 1

2011-12-26T11:09:00.000-08:00

We start out Christmas at "the compound," as it has come to be known, every Christmas Eve. This year we started as late as we could hold off the kids, because Matt had to work. The menu changed a bit and we ate sandwiches, chips, a few soups, and a few other things. All delicious! I had it easy with only having to bring sandwich meat, cheese, and chips. All things pre-packed and cooked from the store. Sign me up for that next year too! After we ate, we opened a few presents until Matt arrived (we could only hold off the kids for so long, but they did good)! Then we had communion (another tradition), after Rikki read the Christmas story from Luke 2. Then one person from each family prayed and thanked God for His promise, and the fact that we can celebrate the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus each and everyday and not just on Christmas and Easter! It was beautiful. Drew was especially moved. He is at the age where things are starting to "click." Enjoy the many pictures and Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Dad arrived!!!!

I just can't get enough of this precious little princess! She wasn't feeling well at all, but you can't tell can you! A girl after my own heart! She just keeps trucking on!

Rikki is so stinkin' hilarious in this one piece sleeper. This is what she picked when we went on our Christmas shopping outing with Linda. I think it fits her quite nicely, don't you?

And there wasn't even a mistletoe! We don't need one around here.

Rikki is reading the Christmas story.

Family prayer. The two who started it all!

Drew during the family prayer

Drew is being initiated into the "oyster club." He took it like a champ. I personally think they are nasty, but he downed that thing!

He was giving me the "evil eye" when I was trying to take his picture.

These next four pictures are of the room where all the presents are. No one is even allowed in there because there's no where to walk! We have a big family!

Uncle Mark, Aunt Shirley, and Wesley (they live in Washington) sent these suspenders and a funny button.

Candy Cane Lane

2011-12-23T08:43:00.000-08:00

I loved hanging out with my friends again at the lights in Rancho Cucamonga last night. The lights through Candy Cane Lane are all decked out! It must be a prerequisite in order to buy a house in these parts. I didn't get very many pictures. I was busy wrangling my kids making sure they didn't get lost or run into people or get hit by a car. Needless to say, it was crowded. The company and the beautiful lights are all worth the effort though. If you haven't ever been, I highly recommend making it out there one Christmas season. Some of the houses are really cool.

Christmas Lights and Good Company

2011-12-23T08:33:00.000-08:00

We went to our annual Mission Inn lights outing with some friends from work and their families. We started out at the ice skating rink watching others fall on their fannies and were glad it wasn't us and our kids in there freezing and bruising our elbows. We left there and headed around the Mission Inn walking and talking and ended up at Casey's Cupcakes.

The look on Drew's face is how I've felt these past few days with having to stay inside because of the wind! I hate the wind! We all have a little cabin fever. Wind, wind go away, don't come again another day!

We were glad Matt was able to join us on this one.

Drew's piano recital

2011-12-11T18:43:00.000-08:00

Today Drew had a recital. He composed the song he played. It's entitled The Bad Ending. Enjoy!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

This year's Thanksgiving was a little different in that we didn't have a lot of our family with us. My MIL is in the hospital with some asthma problems but she should be back tomorrow. It was weird not having her there since she is at all of our family functions. Matt had to work but surprised us by getting off early. My brother in law's family wasn't there either. There were foreign exchange students who needed a place to go for Thanksgiving there, so needless to say it was different. Everyone had a great time despite it being unusual. It was all good company. The kids took advantage of this beautiful weather and were outside most of the time. In the evening it got a little bit chilly, but the kids didn't care. They played outside anyway. We had lots of great family time and Drew sure did enjoy entertaining the UCR students from China and South Korea. Good food and lots of family always makes for a great time!

City Hall Tour

2011-10-25T21:16:00.000-07:00

This is yet another reason why I love scouts. We got the opportunity to tour Riverside's City Hall. Here is our crew.

Below is the room where the head peeps meet with other head peeps from other countries. The other countries are called our "sister" countries. Riverside keeps good relationships with them for various reasons.

The view from the 7th floor. It was a beautiful evening.

All of these quotes are engraved in the pillars that are on the balcony of the 7th floor. It's right outside the room where the head peeps from other countries come and meet with the mayor and other councilmen.

This is right after we ended the tour. They are right in front of the beautiful fountains outside.

This is inside the council chambers. They have their meetings in here where it's free for Riverside residents to come and say their peace about issues they are passionate about. This is where the people are heard. The chair Drew is in, is where our mayor, Ronald Loveridge sits.

This is not the mayor. This is the councilman for Ward 1. I forgot his name, but he was very, very nice to all the boys as was Rusty Bailey (not in this photo), the councilman for Ward 3.

My boy always finds the hot seat. Here is where they got to ask questions. Some were on topic, some weren't. I have to share one of the questions asked by one of the boys. Remember me mentioning "sister" countries? One of the boys asked if Riverside had "brother" countries? Ha ha, I was crackin' up. I thought it made perfect sense for someone to ask that.

It was getting dark so I know it's hard to see, but this is Matt and the boys racing. Matt didn't even let them win!

We ended our evening with good food, good company

throwing coins, and making wishes.

Thank you to our city for graciously giving us a glimpse of how our city runs and for welcoming 20 little boys who had a lot of questions. :)

Police Station Tour

2011-10-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons I love scouts is because the boys get to do things and go places that normally they just wouldn't get to do. It teaches them to be good citizens, polite, respectful, and to always do their best too. Those are some of things we truly believe to be the right way to raise our children. Today was one of those days we got to visit a place that under normal circumstances we probably wouldn't get to visit. While we were there, they were fingerprinted, got to beat on a dummy with a baton, hop on a motorcycle, go in and out of police vehicles, and finally they got to shoot a pepper gun at a target. Very fun stuff!

Basketball

2011-10-01T11:03:00.000-07:00

I have never thought of my kids as team sports kind of kids. They play piano and are in boy scouts but organized sports has never been our thing. Then a friend told me about a basketball clinic being offered at The Grove Community Church. I thought Zachary would enjoy it and it turns out he did! Imagine that! He said he couldn't wait to go back next Saturday. I call that success!

First day of school

2011-10-01T10:47:00.000-07:00

I know this is late, but this is us on the first day of school. Drew is in 6th grade and Zach is in 3rd.

Family Beach Day

2011-09-04T20:02:00.000-07:00

Uncle Luke gave all the kids a beach day as a Christmas present. He did such a great job of planning and organizing. The only thing we parents had to do was get the kids there and stay for a fun day! Sounds good to this mom! We went to Laguna Beach and loved it! It's a much cleaner beach than the beaches closest to us!

Summer Church Camp 2011

2011-08-04T20:48:00.000-07:00

The boys aren't home from church camp yet, but from the pictures I've gathered from the website, it looks like they are having a great time. I love this week, not only because Matt and I get some time to ourselves, but also because they get to make new friendships and become closer to Jesus. They are surrounded by love there. I got a card from Drew's counselor telling me about the things Drew is loving and how much fun my son is. That gives me "good mom feelings" inside. I'm so thankful to our church and all of it's volunteers who take a week off of work and out of their lives to love on our kids.

Tree Climbing, Good Friends, and Star Wars at the Park

2011-07-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

At the little park in our community there are great climbing trees. We had no idea that these were great climbing trees until we had this sweet girl come with us. We made the most of our day since this will be the last time we see her until Christmas. She is moving to Florida in 10 days. We are going to learn to be good long distance friends. We spent 3 hours at this lovely little park and then came back to our house to hang out. I also learned while we were there that this girl can climb! She's a monkey in human form. Scared me a few times but then reminded myself who I was worried about. Then realized there was no need. She's a machine!

Here's where they start their Star Wars episode that they created themselves. Who needs toys guns or costumes when you have trees, bushes, friends, and an imagination! Not these kids! Oh, and did you know that Droids can't see through bushes? Yeah, me neither.

They are getting the history of Star Wars from Drew here

Hiding from the other Droids. They can't see through bushes, remember?

I had to throw this one in

Knott's Berry Farm

2011-07-07T22:20:00.000-07:00

We went to Knott's Berry Farm for Drew's birthday today. He absolutely loves roller coasters and will go on anything. I really mean anything. There is not one roller coaster that he has ever said no to. I love that about him. Zach was very brave and went on everything we went on too! They even got Matt and I on everything they wanted to do. They both also love to get their face painted so that's what we did. It was hot and humid, but fun!

He wanted to play dead. He really does look disturbing.

Drew's 11th Bday

2011-07-07T22:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Drew,

Today is your birthday. 11 years ago, my life changed forever. You have taught me to be a more patient, kind, and understanding person. You have made me the mom I am today. When you were born our family was started. Your birth turned daddy and I into grown-ups! We are so thankful to you for that.
You are growing up to be a fantastic young man. You are in your first year of boy scouts. You have played the piano for 4 years now. You will be going into the 6th grade at the RUSD STEM academy this fall. You love to laugh, make others laugh, and go on roller coasters! You'll go on anything. You are a brave, courageous, and fun loving kid. I love watching you grow and mature. Thanks for being my first born!

Love,
Mom

Big Sur 2011

2011-07-06T14:37:00.000-07:00

We had a very relaxing time in Big Sur. We loved our company, the chance to get away from regular life stuff, and soaking in God's creation. We did lots of things while we were there. I read and finished The Help, we put together a 1,500 piece puzzle of mostly beautiful trees and bushes, threw lots of rocks, skipped rocks along the top of the water, we went to the beach, went on a hike, Matt & Matt went on bike rides, we went down the river on rafts, ate a lot of junk, roasted marshmallows, spent lots of great quality time with dear friends, watched movies, stayed up late around the campfire, and had some lounging/sleeping time too. Seven full days camping and two days of driving. Loved all of it but the drive home. It was just really long, not much else to say about it but that. Now back to the hustle and bustle of life and this heat! Yuck! What happened to my paradise?

Isn't she just adorable? I got to spend a lot of time with this little one and I NEVER got tired of it!

Readers' Restaurant

2011-05-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Zach's class held a Readers' Restaurant today in his classroom. It was super cute! They had menus and banners introducing how their "restaurant" got started. Too funny! The kids' jobs were to take our food order, take our book order, and our drink order. Then they had to take our "money." They turned in the order to the "chef," aka, Mrs. Diehl. They delivered it, we ate, he read us two books, and asked us questions about the books to make sure we were paying attention. We were.

So cute! We loved it, and the opportunity to love on Zach! Next for today is, off to Drew's 5th grade play. Can't wait!

Happy Mother's Day to me

2011-05-08T17:39:00.000-07:00

Perseverance

2011-05-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

Perseverance- steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state,etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

This is how Drew's 5th grade year has been, so I thought this award was very fitting. For him, 5th grade has been the most challenging academically. He's tried so hard and made it through pretty smoothly. We're thankful for his teacher Mrs. Smith and all she has done to help him be a more successful student. Here's to another year down, and to looking forward to many more ahead!

Drew's clarinet debute

2011-05-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

I couldn't hear him individually, but he started all the notes when he was supposed to, and told me he was right on, so we're going with that. Proud of my little man. I think he's musically talented, but I'm biased! Great job tonight Drew!

Does it get any better than this?

2011-05-04T22:03:00.000-07:00

OH-EM-GE (G=Goodness)! Does it get any better than this?

My Sis- in- law sent me this saying Kylee was thinking of me! Have a great day everyone! I sure will!

Fun

2011-05-01T21:49:00.000-07:00

After a wonderful birthday for my dad and Mother's Day lunch, we headed to the park. The parks are limited in Hemet as you could probably imagine, but we made do. Kids enjoyed each other!

The boys are usually the oldest at birthday parties and are older than most of their cousins. They've learned to dote on the younger ones and are working on tolerance. BUT, no one needs to be tolerant around this little cutie pie, because she's adorable and sweet each time we get the pleasure of spending time with her.

A Rescue

2011-04-29T22:45:00.000-07:00

I would never go out seeking an animal. I live with a bunch of animal lovers. I certainly don't hate animals, but I do feel like they are a lot of work that I wouldn't necessarily want to do IF I didn't live with a bunch of animal lovers.

Matt has a heart of gold. He was working way too late in the night last night and came home with a "surprise." When I woke up in the wee hours of the morning to a yelping sound, I thought, "oh no, what did he bring home this time?" I couldn't tell if it was a bird or a kitten or a puppy. You never know with Matt. He has brought home numerous animals of all kinds just to "show" the boys. He even brought home a skunk once...well, that was just the skunk smell after he was sprayed by one. I guess that doesn't technically count. Anyway, I feel like you just never know what that guy is going to come walking through the door with.

BUT this particular kitten lost it's mother to a car. It was sitting right next to her in the middle of the highway. Matt couldn't let it get hit and face the same defeat as it's mother. Sooo... now we have this little one and I'll tell you, it's growing on me. We already took it to the vet and surprisingly, it's in great shape. It doesn't have any fleas or mites. Did you know they run a test for animal AIDS? Crazy stuff!

We found out it's a girl and we think we're going to call her Molly. We're going to give it to Zach because he complains he doesn't have an animal of his own. So for now, meet Molly (name subject to change in case 8 year old doesn't go with it)!

It was pretty difficult getting a picture of something that wouldn't listen and sit still!

A favorite

2011-04-29T22:22:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to see is one of the boys snuggling up with their daddy.

Easter 2011 continued

2011-04-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

Easter then continued to Hemet to celebrate with my Mom & Dad, but sadly my Dad had to work. Here, we dyed eggs and hunted the plastic eggs with money inside. That was a first for us. The boys were really excited. I guess you have to give them more of an incentive to hunt eggs when they get older.

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T19:16:00.000-07:00

We started out Easter this year with serving at our church. Then we headed over to church with Grandma & Grandpa. After that, lunch at Grandma's with the whole fam. And lastly was Easter at my mom & dad's (following post). Busy, busy, but great love and fun!

The kids played Twister. It was hilarious and they were all great sports!

Two kids to a room to hunt for the loot!

The boys right before heading to church with Gma & Gpa

They are both very attentive to their Great- Grandpa. I love watching them be so caring.

Linda always does a great job of hosting.

The whole crew before the hunt.

He's done!

Cody turns two

2011-04-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend has already been busy. We had two birthday parties and then we were off to church. My nephew turns two tomorrow but we celebrated today because tomorrow is Easter. Part of the party was an Easter egg hunt.

At the first birthday party we went to today there also was an egg hunt. My heart was saddened a bit when Drew wouldn't participate in the egg hunt. He didn't want a basket and didn't want to hunt. I guess my boy is growing up. It's a bitter sweet place to be in parenthood. Watching your kids grow up and mature is exciting, but then you miss them being little.

But then at Cody's birthday party, when his aunt told him he had to hunt, he did it and did it well. He had a good time and scored lots of

eggs, which of course made him happy. Happy birthday Cody!

Cody got the hang of it

Birthday boy!!

I love that smile

Love on your cousin

Whale watching

2011-04-23T21:05:00.000-07:00

My mother in law, the boys, and I went whale watching last Sunday. It was a first for all of us. We went out of Dana Point. Had a nice time relaxing, soaking in the sun, getting a tan, and eating snacks. I'm glad we had good company because we didn't see one whale. However, we did see lots of dolphins and a group of sea lions. Good enough I guess. I'd go again just for the chance to see a whale in action in it's own natural habitat.

Zach's little finger pointing to the dolphin

WWII Veterans Parade

2011-04-16T16:12:00.000-07:00

Drew participated in the WWII Veterans Parade today with his boy scout troop. It was HOT! We walked from RCC to the courthouse downtown.

I'm glad my sons got to participate and appreciate what the military does to maintain our freedom. We talked a lot about why they were holding the parade and what the military and it's Veterans mean to our country.

While we were there, they played the song, "I'm Proud to be an American." It brings tears to my eyes every time I hear it.

They needed an extra hand so Zach got to hold a banner as well.

Discovery Center

2011-04-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

During Spring Break we went with some friends of ours to the Discovery Center in Santa Ana. We've been there a few other times, but it's fun each time we go, because there's always something different to look at and touch. Even at Drew's age, he still enjoys it. We saw teenagers there too, so I think it's a place we can keep going back to. And we had good company!

Kylee Renae Chelette

2011-04-06T11:25:00.000-07:00

It's been 5 weeks ( I know, Auntie blogging fail!) since this precious little one came into the world in all of about 24 minutes! She surprised everyone, but what a pleasant one it was.
I got to spend most of the day with her yesterday while the kids played in her backyard on the slip in slide. No pictures of them. I was chit chatting and trying to get Kylee to open her eyes for the camera. Either way, eyes open, eyes shut, she's adorable.

Kylee Renae Chelette

Born: February 28th at 7:24am

Weight: 6.3 pounds

Length: 19 inches

Zach is such a baby hogger! He loves to hold her and will only give her up if you make him.

student of the month

2011-04-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

Zachary was student of the month this last Friday. He was awarded for reading comprehension. What a nice way to head into Spring Break.

We have an official boy scout

2011-03-28T22:14:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Drew officially bridged over to boy scouts. Here are the words that were said at the ceremony. I think it's a great representation of how we feel about raising men.

You see before you the bridge that these young men have assembled here this afternoon. It is a very special construction that reveals several valuable observations about life. There are key components in this structure that give profound meaning to this bridging ceremony.

Notice the stability of the foundation blocks that represent the knowledge and skills these boys have learned that will help prepare them to meet the challenges of the future.

The support beams in this bridge are the load- carrying support system that bears the weight of those who walk upon it today. The support beams in life are the parents, leaders, and fellow scouts who assist these young gentlemen as they make their passage from boyhood to manhood.

It is of particular interest that this bridge was created by two groups of people, working from opposite directions, both reaching out to build a unifying structure that will allow them to come together. So, it is in life, that we must build bridges to unite us, not walls that separate us.

Working together, the scouts and webelos have used the rope to attach the planks to the bridge. The lashings keep the unit cohesive and strong. The memories that are being made in the hearts and lives of these boys through their scouting experience will bind them together as friends and brothers and help them grow into manhood.

Some bridges are one-way only. When these young men step across this bridge today it is symbolic of leaving the comfort of the past and stepping out into the adventure of the future. Each plank they pass takes them one step closer to the fulfillment of their dreams and the reward of their hard work.

This is the tribe that told the story of bridging. Very serious.

This is what we gave Drew as his gift. These are the most important awards achievements he's earned

Tonight, Drew went to the boy scout ceremony and was introduced as one of their newest scouts

Happy 8th birthday Zachary

2011-02-21T10:20:00.000-08:00

Dear Zachary,

Today is your 8th birthday and what a pleasure these past 8 years have been! I remember the day when Daddy and I decided we wanted to have you. It was one of the best decisions we've ever made. Now we feel so lucky to be your parents.

Some things you do that melt my heart:

You say, "ahh" when you see a little baby

When you are upset and you will only talk to me

That you still love to snuggle and can go to sleep on your daddy's arm

You greet me when I come home. I love seeing the door open and your arm waving with a huge smile on your face.

You never want to disappoint anyone. You love to make others happy.

That you bring home all A's and P's on your work school work

You love hugs and kisses

You asked Jesus into your heart

Your eyes light up when you see your grandma

You can't wait to have all four of us together

When you wrestle with the dog

When you play with action figures and make "sounds" with them

Some things that are happening right now in your life:

You love quesadillas and you can make them yourself.

You have lost 3 teeth and are currently waiting for the front tooth to come in.

You hate to have the dentist clean your teeth.

You wear a size 13 shoe and you are very proud of that.

You would wear the same shirt and pants everyday if your mother let you.

You play the piano and are a wolf scout.

You are your brother's #1 fan.

You are polite and think of others before yourself.

You say please and thank you without being asked.

You like you hair combed "flat" as opposed to the side.

You are just now loving video games.

You are an excellent artist.

You love to ride your scooter, but always protest when you have to wear your helmet.

Your best friends are your brother, your cousin Eric, and your friend Dillon from school.

You are a great encourager.

You cry when you see others cry and you hate scary parts of movies, so we don't watch them.

You don't like white bread, but you eat sometimes when I ask you to.

You're are doing a great job at being a kid!

I love you with all of my heart! And the best part about that is, I know you love me too. Happy birthday Munchkin!

Love,
Mom

My littlest man turns 8!

2011-02-20T17:17:00.000-08:00

His actual birthday is tomorrow. He thinks it's pretty cool that we all took the day off from school on his birthday. He's pretending it's because of him. It's ok to pretend sometimes right? He cracks me up! Anyway, we took just him out for a birthday lunch today because Matt has to work tomorrow. It's not very often that he gets both of us to himself.

I love my toothless boy! This is his favorite place to be right now, right next to his dad.

Z loves these activities, especially with his dad. He hates word searches, so I did the word search. He pretended to help. Such a trooper.

Mac n' Cheese is always Z's chose when we go out to eat. It's funny because I can always make that at home. Maybe it reminds him of home.

For the past 4 weeks, Matt & I have been eating a lot of this....

And this... it all tastes pretty good now.

The other person in the picture is my little sis. She works there, so she took her break with us.

To top off the afternoon, Z's favorite! I can always make him happy for a $1.79 with a Wreckless & Wild Sherbert ice cream cone from Baskin Robbins.

Leading the Flag Salute

2011-02-19T21:31:00.001-08:00

It was a great honor to have been asked if my son wanted to lead the flag salute at the school board meeting. Our principal selected him himself. That was a wonderful surprise and it was even better when we found out he was the first elementary student ever to be doing this.

A mom's stomach is always nervous for her littles when they do something so big like this. So needless to say, mine was. I thought he did amazing. He had no practice with the setting he was in. We had no idea the color guard would be doing their thing. He didn't know he'd be introducing anyone, but despite it all, I think he did awesome. He has come so far and I couldn't be more proud of him. I'm looking forward to more proud mommy moments! When you watch the video, go ahead and stop it after he introduces our principal and assistant principal because the rest is the entire board

meeting.

USS Midway

2011-02-10T21:17:00.000-08:00

For the boys' big Christmas gift from their grandma they received a trip to the USS Midway. It's really every boy's dream. Every part of it was everything they've ever thought of seeing on a ship. My nephew is particularly fond of anything military. All men/boys had a fantastic time and mom got a day to herself. It was a win, win!

Are you a match?

2011-01-14T11:28:00.000-08:00

Please join us on Tuesday, February 1st at Kennedy Elementary School for a blood/bone marrow drive to help King High School Student, Nick Melton (the son of Luke's kindergarten teacher). Nick needs a bone marrow transplant to save his life.

The drive takes place from 2:00-7:00pm at Kennedy Elementary School 19125 Schoolhouse Lane, off of Van Buren and Wood Road. The bone marrow screening is only open to those 18 and older. The test is simple and just requires a cheek swab.

Nick is 14 and suffers from Chronic Granulomatous Disease, an immune disease that makes it difficult for him to fight off infections. The condition has resulted in numerous hospitalizations and surgeries. Most children with this disorder only live to be 7 to 12 years old. A bone marrow transplant is Nick's only chance for survival. His three siblings have already been tested and are not a match.

PLEASE mark your calendars and tell all your friends and family about the drive. We hope to see you there!

https://nismail.rusd.k12.ca.us/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.rusd.k12.ca.us/start/fullArticle.aspx?articleId=861%26mp=1

Zachary's dinner

2011-01-09T19:59:00.000-08:00

Zachary amazed me and made me so proud tonight. He had a scout achievement to do and he took it head on. He had to prepare a meal. That included the cooking, setting the table, and cleaning up. He did everything himself with me 2 feet from him of course. He cut and cooked the turkey kilbasa, cooked (not strained) the pasta, opened the green beans with a can opener and cooked them. He set the table, ate and cleaned up everything without a complaint. THEN asked me if he could help me with dinner every night! On Tuesday, he's going to BBQ steak with dad! He kept talking about how he wants to cook for his wife and kids and be the best dad! It was such a pleasure preparing dinner with him tonight.

He's actually cleaning the whole pan, sauce and all, here. Then he filled the dishwasher and started it! I could get used to this!

Happy birthday Eric!

2011-01-07T23:15:00.000-08:00

This is my nephew Eric, and today he turned 8. He is such a blessing to us. He and my boys are the best of friends. They are inseparable when they are in the same place. Every time we go to grandma's house, the first thing that comes out of my boys' mouths is, "is Eric going to be there?" He loves to play army and can entertain for hours. We love this precious kid! Happy birthday!

Accidents happen

2011-01-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

"Accidents happen" is something I've heard all of my life. When they happen to you, it's not that big of a deal, but when they happen to one of your littles then it's a big deal. I can still say, we've actually never been to the emergency room. What I can't say anymore is that we've never had a broken bone.

There isn't much bruising yet. The doc said that would come in a few days and he'd have black eyes. Now it's swollen all through the bridge of his nose.

So this is what happens when one brother is ~~running~~ walking fast from one end of the house and the other brother is ~~running~~ walking fast from the other end of the house and they both don't see each other and then collide. You'd think that the older, taller brother would have made it out better in a collision, but not when the little brother's head is the exact level as the older, taller brother's nose. Enough said... except for very bloody! At least that's what Matt said. I wasn't home for this one!

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T20:41:00.000-08:00

There are lots of 2010 reflection posts out there today so I thought I'd join in too. Here's what I learned this past year:

I love, love, love being a mom. I know that sounds ridiculous saying that now since I've been a mom for 10 years, but the truth is, it's had it's challenges. But now I see those challenges as blessings.

The most important thing to me, besides my relationship with the Lord, is my family, including my extended family.

To be honest in the nicest way I can.

To show my husband, my boys, and others the love of Jesus through my thoughts, actions, and words.

My joy doesn't come from "stuff" but from the love of Jesus.

How to have long life friends.

To treasure relationships I have, and to invest my time into them.

I can't juggle too many relationships or someone or something suffers and that's not fair to anyone.

It's ok if the house isn't always perfect, neat, and tidy!

The laundry can always be done tomorrow.

To play with my kids, instead of clean.

Spending time together with people you love is a WAY better gift than any material thing.

There is more, but that's all I have for now....here's to a happy New Year and to many blessings in 2011!

Tooth fairy

2010-12-30T08:05:00.000-08:00

Do you believe in the tooth fairy?

He sure does!

Snow Day

2010-12-29T11:18:00.000-08:00

We finally made it to the snow, but unfortunately there wasn't much up there. We thought for sure there would be because of all this rain we are having down here, but boy were we wrong! We made it work anyway, and it was fun being with people who love and care about my family just as much as I do theirs.

Friend fun

2010-12-27T09:15:00.000-08:00

Our friends invited us over for appetizers, treats, and games last night. The only requirement was you had to wear your PJ's. So we gladly came dressed like we were going to bed!

The kids found some silly putty and started melting it by the fire. Kids are so imaginative!

We played a game while enjoying margaritas.

This was the "pot" to win.

Amanda won both times. She's the friend you want to take to Vegas! She's good luck!

This game was so funny! You had to get the cookie from your forehead to into your mouth without dropping it. Patience is the key to this game! So funny to watch!

This is me after I won the cookie game.

The boys built some pretty cool legos!

We had a Merry Christmas (part II)

2010-12-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Day, the boys and I headed over to my parents house. Matt had to work. We opened gifts first and then ate our Christmas dinner. Fun, fun, fun!

We had a Merry Christmas (part 1)

2010-12-27T08:58:00.000-08:00

We gathered at the "compound" again for our usual festivities on Christmas Eve. Full of family memories. We all brought in an appetizer and we snacked all night on those. We opened gifts and in the midst of all the craziness, we manage to see a few opened. This year there were ten and a half kids, all of which are 12 and under and 17 adults. You can just imagine the chaos! But it was all in creating fun family memories.

This is one of my favorite pictures. Not because the picture was taken well, but because this is Luke reading the Christmas story. This year we had a toast to our Savior for sending his son down to die for us and giving us a hope and a promise for eternity with Him. Praise the Lord for His promise!

The boys' big gift from grandma was a day with their dads to go the the USS Midway. Again, creating fun, family memories instead of getting stuff that we'll forget about in two days. Love it!

This year, Uncle Luke is taking the kids to the beach. Last year he took them all camping. The entire family came and created more good memories. I'm looking forward to it again.

Mission Inn lights

2010-12-23T21:25:00.000-08:00

Tonight we went out to the lights at the Mission Inn. We needed to get out. Being cooped up in the house for 3 days finally got to us, so we were happy to head out in the cold. It really wasn't that cold. We stopped for Casey's Cupcakes and some very hot, hot chocolate.

Horse back riding

2010-12-23T21:02:00.000-08:00

Matt took the boys horse back riding a few months ago. They had never ridden on horses outside of a fair. These were real live horses in real live stables with real live trainers. The women who own this stable works with Matt. They board these horses and have a little riding school there. It was very sweet of them to offer for our boys to go there to ride. They had a blast!

Rock climbing

2010-12-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago Zach went rock climbing at an indoor place called Hangar 18 owned by a Christian organization. This kid had no fear. He was the only one who made it to the top. He told his dad that he would make it in 2 minutes and guess what? He did!

Who says?

2010-12-22T21:28:00.000-08:00

Who says knights don't carry nerf guns?

Happy anniversary Grandpa & Grandma

2010-12-21T16:45:00.000-08:00

This happy couple have been married for 63 years. You all know how I treasure everything they represent. Happy anniversary grandpa & grandma!

They are still so cute!

2010-12-21T12:29:00.000-08:00

They are still so cute, but slowly turning into handsome! It brings me to tears, but gives me joy all at the same time. Love these two with all that I am.

Happy Birthday Brian!

2010-12-21T12:19:00.000-08:00

This is way late, but better late than never! My wonderful, caring, fun loving brother in law turned 33 the other day and we wanted to say, Happy Birthday!!

Rainy days

2010-12-20T23:24:00.000-08:00

Can I just tell you I love the rain? I mostly love the rain when the house is stalked with good things to eat and drink, two loving, wild boys, a scruffy dog, and a very fluffy cat! There's just no real good reason to leave the house. But we did anyway....

Actually today we made the best out of the rain starting with a tour of the old historical court house, part of the jail (we didn't see any bad guys), and then into the newer court house where we met a very nice grandma judge. I always have to gear myself up for these events because D is so ~~impulsive~~ curious. Every new place is a challenge. Poor kid can't touch ANYTHING, but wants to touch EVERYTHING! But it turned out fine as it usually does. Fun, fun, fun, and interesting! Then we headed off to my favorite FF place, Del Taco right there on 14th St. where my oldie, but goodie friend from my Taco Bell days works and we chit chatted a little bit and enjoyed lunch together.

Earlier this morning, I did get the call after 4 days of waiting, that I do indeed have strep throat, so then the boys and I jaunted over to good ol' Kaiser and picked up the meds that were really needed 4 days ago, but whatever. I should be on my road to recovery soon! I promise I haven't kissed anyone or let anyone drink after me for the past week. I couldn't even get close to my cutie pie nephew and kiss those big cheeks! Sad..

Then the rest of the day was spent inside enjoying the sound of rain drops that our Earth so desperately needs, laughs, wrestling, video games, and food.

Hope your rainy day was dandy!

Scout Christmas Party

2010-12-12T20:37:00.000-08:00

Pack 703 did a fantastic job of shoeing their love to the cub scouts for Christmas. This was our first year with this pack and we are so glad we came. It started out with a safety lesson by a police officer (I didn't catch his name) and his partner Officer Bird. It was really cute. I'll post a video later. It is good for any kid to see. It's entertaining and teaches a great safety lesson.

This was the gift exchange. The cub scout master told a story with the words right and left in it. Every time he said left or right they had to pass their gift in that direction. You get the idea.

This is what the boys got for their gift from the gift exchange. That look on Zach's face is him trying to be happy. He brought a nerf gun and he got a camping cooking set. Not an even trade in his mind. We are working on gratefulness and it's not the gift that counts. It's better to give than to receive. He's not convinced yet! Ha! I wouldn't have been either.

Zach's den did a skit. Zach was the sled. Can't you tell?

Utter (is that the right way to spell that kind of utter? It seems like its the, you know, cow utter, anyway) chaos during the attempt of getting 75 kids in three circles.

They did it!

Drew earned 2nd place for popcorn. He was given a gift card to walmart and this marshmallow gun. Ahh, every boy's dream. Needless to say, he was super happy!

Zach earned a gift card too! He's a little shier so he would only ask people (teachers) he had. Drew on the other hand would ask a stranger. I have to watch him carefully. LOL!

Winter Piano Recital

2010-12-12T20:15:00.000-08:00

They did great! This was Zach's first time performing. He's very shy when he is in front of a group, but he did it! Drew did wonderful as usual and isn't afraid of a crowd or anyone for that matter!! Ha Ha! So proud of these two little men!

Ahhh! It's quiet!

2010-12-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

Aren't they sweet when they are asleep?

I do not iron

2010-12-11T09:55:00.000-08:00

It's true. I'm not proud of it, but it's true, I do not iron. I was never taught how. But when your two precious angels have a piano recital and the ironer isn't home, you gotta do what you gotta do. I'm not sure if they look better or worse from their original state, but the boys said they looked good to them and they'd be happy to wear them. Score!

For the life of me I couldn't get these two pictures to turn up even though they are saved up in my computer.

This was before they were completely done. Daddy wasn't home yet do their hair and get their shirts tucked in and pulled out (I know that's a word, but I can't think of it).

Happy birthday Grandma/Great Grandma/Grandma 3

2010-11-20T15:16:00.000-08:00

Our grandma (really Matt's, but I consider her mine too!) had her 80th birthday this past week and we celebrated it with a surprise brunch at a fun restaurant! This picture is of her walking in to us singing happy birthday.

These kids are her great grand kids (4 out of 10 and the 11th on the way) patiently waiting for her arrival outside the restaurant.

Many moons ago, I was privileged to be able to get to know this wonderful lady. She's so thoughtful, caring, and good hearted. Everyone knows that when a crisis happens to call grandma and she'll start the prayer chain. When a new baby is born, she'll be the one to let everyone know. If you call her and tell her you're craving something for dinner, it will be on the menu on family dinner night. She makes my own grandma's red dill potatoes for me because she knows I love them and they remind me of my grandma. She makes me white cake for dessert because she knows I don't like chocolate. She and grandpa have created a legacy that is truly special that I can only hope to leave for my own children and that is that God, family, and friends who are like family are the most important things in this life and not the "stuff" that our generation "thinks" are so important. I'm so blessed to be a part of her life and to have learned so many things from her. I love you grandma!

Halloween

2010-11-01T18:45:00.001-07:00

This was my first time decorating my van for trunk n' treat and I'm so glad I did it. I'm not very creative so I bummed the idea for my van from my friend Kathryn. The best part about decorating my car was that the whole thing was free. I borrowed everything. I got to bless kids from our church and make people feel loved all for free! The turn out was amazing! There were over 2,000 people who came out for it. All I can say is WOW! It was so fun!

The Bourbonnais family. We've known them for years. Our boys are BFF's. Aren't they adorable. Melissa is really playing the role here.

My niece, nephews, and sis in law

My nephew

My niece

My other niece

My other nephew, isn't he so cute?

She is the daughter of a fellow paramedic school student. She made it too!

Hulk Hogan!

Pastor Matt & family

One of the creatively decorated cars.

Brian & Rikki's decorated truck

I just liked this one.

I serve at Flip Flops with Jamie and this is her husband. I thought their car was so cute!

Drew with a friend from church. They bonded at camp.

Finally, my van. Can you guess what my theme was?

Can you guess what my theme was?

Matt's graduation party

2010-11-01T18:29:00.000-07:00

Friday night we threw Matt a graduation/birthday party. It turned out so nice. I'm not supposed to brag about how wonderful my brother and sister in law are, but I just can't help it! We had it at their house. When I got there after work, everything was set up! The food was heating in the oven, there were fruit and veggie trays, and chips & salsa ready to eat. The yard looked wonderful. The trees were trimmed and the grass was mowed. They are such a treasure to us! The camera ran out of battery, so I didn't get that many pictures.

Family & friends

The guys

This isn't even close to all the kids. There were 20 kids there counting babies and we wouldn't have it any other way. For them we decorated pumpkins and roasted marsh mellows.

This is my dad, my brother in law, niece, and my sis in the background.

These are two of my dear friends Amanda & Brianna

A picture of the food that I didn't make!

Here is where we ate!

What a lovely evening and perfect weather! We give God all the praise and the glory for blessing us through this year. Congratulations and happy birthday my love!

Matt's graduation and a gettaway weekend

2010-10-24T19:53:00.000-07:00

This past Friday Matt graduated from RCC's paramedic school program. The best part is, he did it with a 4.0! This was a long journey for all four of us, but I look back now and realize Matt had the hardest part in all of this. He didn't want to let me and the boys down. That's a lot of pressure to put on someone.

The first semester was 16 units. All four classes were science classes with labs. He went to school from 6:45 AM to 5:30 PM and that was on a good day. Often times he was later than that. There was physical training every morning starting at 6:45 and it went until 7:45. He had to be showered and in a uniform with shoes polished and clothes ironed by 8:10. From there he did skills labs until 12:30. Lunch was an hour then it was lecture until 5:30 and this was Monday through Thursday. The first semester was extremely rigorous. When he would get home, he'd eat and then lock himself in the office to study until all hours of the night. He's get some sleep and then get up and do it again.

The winter session was two days a week of classes and then 2, 12 hour shifts in the hospitals all the while working 2, 24 hours shifts to earn money. The spring semester entailed 2 days a week of class and 3, 12 hours shifts in hospitals a week. The summer was the end of the road but was a LONG road. This was his time to go out with the fire department and the ambulance company. MANY, MANY hours and MANY MANY nights away from home later, he was done!!!

The last leg of this journey happens November 3rd. On that day, he takes his written National Registry test. We would really appreciate your prayers.

The graduation was lovely. After it, Matt's friend from work took us out to dinner to celebrate. Delicious Chili's! Yummy!! Next we were off to Rancho Mirage for the Sandals Marriage Getaway!! We missed the first session because of the graduation, so we joined everyone on Saturday morning. Two other couples from our fantastic small group were there and our dear friends, the Bourbonnais'! We all had a great time connecting! I loved the sessions. They really hit home for me. I realized I need to get my priorities in order and coming to some conclusions on what or who I worship. All serious stuff and now a lot to ponder on....

Here are a few pictures of our time this weekend.

Happy birthday Nathan!

2010-10-22T17:49:00.000-07:00

This is my sweet brother in law who helped me so much when Matt was gone this past year! Thanks for always stepping in and unclogging toilets, nailing fences, and fixing sprinklers for me. I think you're awesome! Happy birthday! We love you!

Happy birthday Linda/Grandma/Mom

2010-09-26T15:10:00.000-07:00

This is my awesome wonderful Mother in law. She's the best MIL a girl could ask for. She just had her 61st birthday. We are still recovering from last year's surprise 60th birthday party, so this year she got a happy birthday song sung to her early in the morning on her actual birthday. She's so easy to please!! Here's to a lot more wonderful years to come. Happy birthday Linda, we sure do love you!

Happy 83rd Birthday Grandpa!

2010-09-23T12:33:00.000-07:00

Here is Grandpa! He's the sweetest, most loving, courageous, God fearing, God loving man I know. I'm thankful everyday for the example he's shown his 7 grandsons! We love you!

Where are my brains?

2010-09-21T19:49:00.001-07:00

When I was pregnant, I remember thinking that the baby has sucked out all of my brains. I worked at Taco Bell as a manager when I was pregnant with my boys. It was quite the task to run a store with no brains! I was definitely not myself as my boss would tell me. When I went on maternity leave, I had 9 employees. For those of you who don't know, THAT'S NOT ENOUGH! My excuse was that I gave all of my brains to my babies!

It's been 7 years since I was last pregnant and I've managed to teach for 6 years and be responsible for a lot of little lives along the way, so I know I've got something in there, but lately I'm not sure where my brains are and I'm not pregnant. Here's what I've done in just the past week:

1. My husband and I had a conversation last night that I can't remember and I did the opposite of what we "supposably" talked about.

2. I went to the store to get cash back, but forgot I don't have the pin number to my new card yet- Mission failed

3. I totally flaked on my friend (I don't do this and I can't stand flakiness). We were supposed to walk on Sunday night, but I went to evening service instead. I didn't bother to run it by her because I forgot we were supposed to walk. AGH!!

4. For Drew's birthday I forgot to pick up the cake. I realize that was more than a week ago.

5. I forgot my lunch twice.

6. I forgot to set my alarm for the right time, so I woke up 25 minutes late today.

7. I almost forgot to brush my teeth before work until I ran my tongue across them and felt that film (you know what I'm talking about).

8. I forgot an entire pile of stuff I needed for work the next day sitting on my table.

9. I totally messed up my last blog post and didn't count all of the great grand kids correctly. I had two different numbers for the same group of kids!

10. I just forgot what I was about to write. Grr!

I hope this doesn't get any worse. I can't write that many lists to remind me of things.

Grandparent's Day

2010-09-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

Some of you may not know, but Grandparent's Day was Sept. 12th. We love, love, love these two special people right here in this picture below. They are the two who started it all here in Riverside for this special family I belong to. This is Grandma and Grandpa as we all call them. They have other names like Grandma 3, Great Grandma, and Small Grandma, Great Grandpa, Grandpa 2, and Pops! They will be married 63 years on December 13th. They are the rock of the family and a huge blessing for all of us. They live at "the compound" where we all meet and gather for dinner once a week that is so graciously made by grandma. They love having us all around. They say it keeps them going. God has truly blessed our wonderful family.

We all gathered together on Saturday night at Brian & Rikki's to celebrate the grandparents. We gather a lot, we're good at that!

Grandpa, Grandma, Jeff, Nathan, and Brian

Grandpa and Grandma with 8 1/2 out of 10 1/2 great grandkids. The half is on it's way! Congrats to Brian & Rikki. The new arrival will be here around the end of March.

All of my kids grandma and her 8 1/2 grandkids

Happy Anniversary Nathan & Shannon

2010-09-13T15:23:00.000-07:00

Another anniversary for our family happened a few weeks back. Congratulations on 8 years of marriage Nathan & Shannon! We love you!

First day of school

2010-08-28T19:51:00.001-07:00

These are pictures from the first day of school. They are a little blurry, but they are all I have. I can't believe how grown up they look. Drew started 5th grade and Zach started 2nd. It's so hard to believe that Drew will be thinking about what he wants to do and actually has the right to move out if he so chooses, in just 8 years. That's less years than he's been alive. Brings me to tears just thinking about it. But until then, there is much work to be done in raising them to be God fearing, God loving, independent, gentlemen... what blessings I've been given.

Drew and Rachael's Zoo day

2010-08-28T11:47:00.001-07:00

Drew & his girl BFF went to the San Diego Zoo this summer with her mom & dad. They have a special relationship that has been developing since the second grade. They only really like for it to be the two of them when they are together. They love to use their imaginations and play a game with their fingers. Their fingers have characters and they are the only two who really understand this game and they are the only people they play it with. It is really cute. Her mom & I just sit back and crack up at how they interact.

Happy Birthday Casey!

2010-08-22T19:39:00.001-07:00

My cousin in law turned a year younger on Aug. 21st! Happy birthday Casey! We love you!

Happy birthday Shannon and Leanne

2010-08-22T11:04:00.000-07:00

My sister in law Shannon's birthday was Aug. 2nd! She turned a year younger! Ha ha!! Happy birthday! We love you so much!!

Happy birthday Leanne! My beautiful, intelligent, wonderful niece turned 12 on Aug. 17th! Happy birthday! We love you so much!

He's back!

2010-08-13T21:18:00.000-07:00

There was only this one picture of Drew that I could find on the camp web site. He looks pretty serious but this is totally my son. He's analyzing the situation and figuring out what he's going to do next.

When I picked him up today he was a different kid. He told me that he is on fire for the Lord and that he can feel Jesus allaround him! He said that he was going to listen to his parents and tell people how camp changed his life. He said he would take the anger and frustration energy that he has sometimes and give it to God. Today, he even stopped an argument with his brother (something he never would have done before) and told Zach that he didn't want to argue and that he wasn't going to talk to him about it anymore! Wow! Very wise for a 10 year old I thought. I hope this all continues. I just keeping praying for him to follow God's lead.

I think church camp is the best experience for any kid. I'm so glad he has the opportunity to go. We love our church family and how they have accepted our son for who he is. They've embraced him and brought the best out of him. So thankful for the blessings in this life that I don't even deserve and Drew is one of those.

Amber's Allies

2010-08-04T15:31:00.000-07:00

This is for my friend Casey's sister's best friend. Please help if you can. Click here to visit the Amber's Allies Blog.
Get the word out!!
Join the fight, bracelets unite! Help out Amber Pangan in her fight against Hodgkin's Lymphoma by buying a silicone bracelet for $4, 100% of which goes towards the Pangan's bills.Our non-profit organization, Amber's Allies, was founded solely to provide economic relief to the Pangan family after Amber was diagnosed July 29, 2010 with Stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma. If you'd like to purchase a bracelet, please contact me by text message (949)235-7302 or email "erynsmith22@aol.com". OR click here to purchase We are also in the process of setting up a bank account for Amber's Allies so that if you'd like to donate directly, you may.Thank you so much for your contribution and let's keep fighting with Amber!!

Matt's half way done

2010-07-30T22:13:00.001-07:00

Matt's first round of his preceptorship is over and he's on to the next one. For his last night we came over with lasagna and dessert. Matt was able to show grandma and grandpa the engine and all the equipment that goes into what he does. Grandpa was giddy with excitement. It was really cute and grandma made a mean lasagna. The boys had a blast pretending to be firemen.

Back yard camping

2010-07-30T21:48:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago my mother in law, the boys, my nephew, and I went camping in a really cool backyard. It was exactly like being at a real campground but we had a cleaner bathroom.

Memory Lane

2010-07-27T20:27:00.001-07:00

This is a picture of Matt and me at my midwinter dance in 1995! It was a major ordeal for me to get this picture up here so this is the best I could do.This is us again 15 years later! A little chunkier!! Ha ha, oh well!

I was brave enough to post mine. I challenge you to do it too!!! Are you brave enough???

Random pictures

2010-07-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random pictures from the last week that I hadn't gotten a chance to post yet.