Our Crazy, Beautiful Life

Big Boys DO Cry:)

2011-07-07T22:31:00.000-07:00

And I mean that in the nicest, most sincere way ever. See, Juan is not an easy person to shop for. He is not a materialistic person at all and enjoys the simple things in life. For a person who loves clothes and decorating her house SO much, we have found a lovely balance amongst us. Father's day was coming up and I racked my brain. I have made him numerous photo albums. The kids have made him big posters of hand prints and their own special gifts. And they meant the world to him. But I wanted to do something else. Something that he could always have and would mean the world to him. And I didn't want to spend a lot of money. He isn't big on me splurging for him. See, great guy! Finally it hit me. Make him a slideshow of pictures with the song that reminds him of the kids. He loves the song by Creed, "Arms Wide Open". Great song. If you listen to the words, you will know why it is a great song to put with a slideshow of the kids. I started gathering pictures and got to work on the Mac. It took time, but so worth it. We also got him a new pair of swim shorts and a couple of work out shirts. And we took him to a baseball game. When he sat down to watch the movie, he was in tears. That means it was the perfect gift. Ever. And guess what I got for my birthday, the big 2-6? A new t.v. We decided to upgrade ours in the living room to something a little bigger and had the one in the living room mounted in our room. We love the results.

We have had an amazing summer and the kids have practically lived at the pool. They are so worn out by bedtime, they fall right to sleep and don't wake up until late morning. I love summertime!!!

And since this is all over the news I thought I would voice my opinion about the Casey Anthony case. I could probably write a book about how I feel. But instead I will just say it is completely ridiculous. Honestly, I can't believe it. It actually made me sick to my stomach when I heard she was found not guilty. She is so obviously guilty it makes you wonder who in the world these jurors were. So ridiculous. But I do know her Earthly punishment isn't what really matters in the end. (Even though I do not think this woman should ever be free and able to ever have more children) She will have to answer to God for what she did. And that might be a little more difficult than sitting in a Florida courtroom. I pray for her and the family. It is hard to pray for someone that is such a monster, but I know it is the right thing to do. And I will leave it at that.

John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

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It's Been A While

2011-06-19T22:49:00.000-07:00

Merci's new summer haircut:)

Andrew had a reptile birthday party!

One of Sophia's skirts I made:)

We had a blast at the Marine Corps dinner:)

Oops, I did it again. It's not that I have forgotten about the lovely world of blogging, I have just been extremely busy. We had a ton of stuff going on with the end of school year parties, graduations, etc... and we have been doing a complete makeover on our bedroom. I can finally see the light at the end of the dang tunnel. Whew. It has been a hard project, but oh so worth it. Let me tell you about it. Pictures will come as soon as it is completely finished. I started with painting the entire room and bathroom. We have a huge master bedroom so this took a while. I did the ceilings, baseboards, doors, everything. It took me several weeks to pick a paint color and finally just closed my eyes and pointed to one. Not really, but kinda. I love the color. It is a soft tan, not dark at all and it makes the room look even bigger. I did a chocolate brown accent wall in the bathroom and it looks great against the bright white baseboards. Now for the most painful of the projects....But first I need to back up a tad. Juan bought brand new bedroom furniture a few weeks before I met him. When we got married we kept his since I didn't have an actual set. I didn't like his furniture but it was new and good quality. But the color was not my favorite and I just didn't like it. So I jumped online and researched. I had the perfect idea! I would strip the varnish and stain it. Easy, right? Ha! I.was.so.wrong. The original stuff I bought to strip the varnish was a waste of money. I poured the entire bottle on the top of the night stand and it did nothing to it. So my brilliant husband brings out the paint stripper we used on the banister(that's an even longer story!) It worked like a charm. He scraped, without effort, right down to the wood. I am excited at this point and get the stain out and start putting on the black stain I bought. It did not go on black, it just turned it the exact color we had just stripped off. I was so confused. I put more coats. Nothing worked. I let it sit in our garage for several weeks when I finally decided I would try something else. I had a can of black spray paint sitting in my paint collection, so I sprayed it down. And it looked good! I researched the best way to spray paint furniture, went to Lowe's and got the primer and spray paint. We sprayed our headboard, nightstand, and my dresser. I put Juan's dresser in the closet, I just didn't have it in me to go on any more with it! After several coats, we achieved the look we were going for. It is not in any way near perfect, but for about 100 bucks we have a brand new, (old) furniture set. Beats paying $5,000 for the one I wanted! We added some antique knobs and we are so happy with it. We also out in a new light and did some organizing in the closet. It is still a work in progress, but I am happy with how it is turning out.

I have also been doing a lot of sewing. Headbands and skirts are the main things I am working on, but I am determined to make Andrew his pajama shorts. I turn 26 tomorrow and I couldn't be happier. I am so blessed to have another year. My family is amazing. I have a beautiful home. I have a hard working, loyal husband. My kids rock. I have friends who I adore. Life is good.

I will post pictures from our room makeover as soon as it is all finished:)

He Is Risen!!

2011-04-24T23:28:00.000-07:00

Every year the celebration of Easter touches me more and more. Maybe it is maturing in Christ, or maybe it is witnessing my kids learn about the amazing Lord we serve. Or maybe it is both. Today after church Andrew had a sincere tone in his voice and he proudly said, "mommy, Jesus died on the cross for our sins." The way he said it let me know he understood it. I am thankful we have found a church that has an amazing way of reaching children. Every Sunday Merci and Andrew come out with so much knowledge and can't wait to go back. Now if we could just get Sophia to enjoy it....

Yesterday we dyed eggs. I remember when Merci was younger she was convinced "dyeing" the eggs meant we had to kill them. We laugh about that every Easter. Andrew woke up from a nap in a grouchy mood so it took him a while to want to do his eggs. Sophia was so excited about getting messy and she mixed up some interesting colors!! Church was amazing this morning and I took so much away from it. I cannot say it enough how truly amazing the Lord is.

Sweet Girl

She was so excited!

Sweet guy

She was very proud of this egg!

Sophia's eggs

Merci

Sophia

Tired Boy

That's KrAzY!!

2011-04-09T22:01:00.001-07:00

No, I am not talking about my kids. Even though they have their moments:) I am talking about couponing. It is my new found love. I found a website that is totally awesome. Two women, one being a military wife, give amazing tips and deals when it comes to shopping. They are also involved with the TLC show that shows how people use coupons with awesome results. I have only been doing this a week and after only three shopping trips, I saved over ninety bucks! And I am buying things we use and need, not things just because I have a coupon. Juan is amazed! I have a stack of coupons I spend hours sorting through and checking back on her website to see what deals she has found. It is so FUN!! I ordered the book and I have been waiting for the mail like a little kid waiting for a new toy. I walked into Walgreens the other night and with out coupons would have spent about 35 bucks but instead only spent 12!!! That is huge savings. I came home feeling like I had done my good deed. Everyone should learn how to coupon. I know I can improve and that is why I spend time really trying to learn all about it.

My sewing is going along well, I need to make a fabric run to Joanne's because I am running low on fabric. There are so many projects running around in my head, I get so excited and don't know where to start.

The kids are doing good. Their two week spring break has officially started and I have already asked 100 times WHY in the world they have TWO weeks off?!? That is WAY too long! But luckily Juan's mom is coming for a week so that will help!!

Goodbyes STINK...With A Capital S!

2011-03-27T20:31:00.000-07:00

Ugh. Before I married Juan I lived in my comfort zone. Texas. All of my family was there and we were all close. Then I met Juan and fell in love. The thought of being able to move around sounded great at the time, everyone who lives in College Station wanted out, if only for a little while. But for some reason they all ended up back there. So the idea of moving sounded great. Then I had Andrew and when it came time to head to Florida, that idea did not seem to great anymore. I wanted to be around my family. But we loaded up and headed out. We were in Florida for about eight months. I had to tell my very good friend bye which was hard but had the idea of being stationed in Corpus Christi to help me through. It was Texas!! Even though I hated that city because of the crime, I was able to have Sophia in Texas, which meant a lot to me. But it didn't last long. We were in Corpus for five months and got orders to California. By this point I do not find anything fun about moving so much. We loaded up, with a newborn baby, a three year old, and a seven year old and headed to California. The worst drive of my life. Seriously. And if it seems like I am griping a lot in this post, I can. Military wives earn that privilege:) Anyways, we made it to California. We lived in a hotel for a month, I could write a book about that experience, and finally to our house. While we were in our hotel one of Juan's friends from college sent me a message on face book. Well, actually his wife did. We had met before but they moved before us so we never got close. They had just got to Cali a few months before us and they asked us to dinner. That started a great friendship. Ashley became one of the best friends I have ever had. And she was from Texas! Over the last couple of years we have formed a wonderful friendship. She was just like family. The kids loved her and her husband. I knew the time would come when one of us would have to move but tried not to think about it. But sure enough, they got orders...to New York. My heart sank inside but they were so excited I tried to be happy for them. The selfish part of me did not want them to go. Ashley was that friend you could call any time night or day for whatever possible reason and she was there. How would I keep going without her? She was my rock when Juan was deployed and helped me out with the kids a lot. I dreaded the day I had to say goodbye. It brought back memories of hugging my family and telling them goodbye. I didn't like it and wanted to avoid it. But the day came. Me and Sophia went over to get some things and I promised myself I wouldn't cry. But I did. A lot. But I knew they would understand. And the big baby I am, I am crying as I write this. Ahhh!!! So, she is gone. But I know we will be life long friends and look forward to visiting New York!!

We bought land in Texas and are SUPER excited!! We will have a house built on it and have big plans for our future. I am so lucky to have such a determined, hard working man. I am excited about moving back to Texas in about six years but scared at the same time. The military life is what we do. Anything outside of that is scary to me. I am a Marine wife, and a very proud one. I see my husband wear his camis and combat boots to work everyday and know how much our country means to him. So much that he is willing to die for it, when so many are afraid to. I have seen him deploy and the heartache it caused my kids. I cry every time I hear our National Anthem and know how significant and meaningful it is. Everyday I have to wake up wondering if we will get orders to pack up and move or if he will be deployed again. It is a hard feeling to explain but their is pride that comes with being a Marine wife. It will take a while to get used to living the "civilian" life again. But I am sure when I am around family again, it will be easier to adjust.

The kids are doing great. They are constantly arguing with each other and we have learned to ignore the petty things. Like if Andrew looks at Merci wrong and she is on her way to tell and Sophia slaps Andrew and pushes Merci all within seconds of each other. Yeah, we tend to ignore those complaints. I have the sweetest kids but I will be honest, they tattle way too much. I mean about every little thing. We are trying to teach them when it is okay to tell and when it is not, but it hasn't sunk in yet. Maybe one day!!

Where Do I Begin?

2011-03-10T23:18:00.001-08:00

That's a good question. Andrew had his first game. I get confused what to label his league as. We signed him up for t-ball but it is actually a coach pitch league, unless the kid can't hit the ball by the fourth swing, then they bring out the stand. So, we will call it the ball league? Juan gets mad when I say t-ball. Maybe because they made him the "pitcher" and he wants to be acknowledged. I don't know! Anyways, Andrew had his first "ball"game. He didn't get a hit so he had to hit off of the stand. Which is perfectly fine. (Remember, we did sign him up for t-ball) He ran so fast to the bases, it was absolutely precious to watch. The biggest mistake I made that day was walking over to him, as he was talking to his teammates, and gave him a kiss and said "good luck honey, mommy loves you." Oops...major embarrassment. My brother-in-law informed me I had just ruined his life. I think he was being a little extreme.... Even though they don't keep score at this age, his team won. Andrew yelled it loud and clear.

Merci started soccer practice last week. She loves it. Her coach is stern, which is good. He knows a lot about the game and keeps the girls on track. Their practices are strictly for practicing, he doesn't allow goofing around. She has her first game Saturday. Apparently the Spring league is much different from the Fall league. They do not stress winning at all and their aren't any play off games. The parents from both teams sit on the same side of the field and we are encouraged not to "yell" out at the girls. This is hard for me. I like to yell. A lot. I like to get out of my chair and cheer. I have never been negative at games and have always clapped when the other team scores. But if they don't want me opening my mouth at all, they better have some pretty strong duct tape.

Sophia is doing well. Sorta. She is battling allergies or a cold, not really sure which one. Monday night she woke up screaming and scratching her body like a mad woman. When I looked I saw she was red all over and covered in bumps. Of course this is the night Juan had duty. Being the panicky mother I am, I shook Merci and Andrew to wake up so I could take her to urgent care. It took me forever to wake Andrew up. Finally, by 10:30 we were on our way. Sophia was crying asking me if I would make it all better. I felt terrible because I had no idea what the bumps were. I get there and she sees a neat playhouse in the waiting room. She gets down and runs over to play. She made me look like I made this up! Finally, she was seen by the doctor. She said they were hives and we would probably never know why she got them. She gave her benadryl and a steroid medicine and we went home. I took her to the pediatrician the next day and she said hives can be normal. Yesterday she woke up with them again and benadrly took them away. Andrew stayed home today because his cough was so bad and Merci seems to be coughing a lot, too. I can't quit either. Man, we do everything as a family. Remember that stomach virus we all shared? I am hopeful the kids will be better by Saturday for their games!

There are some fun stories to tell from the past few weeks but I am tired! More to come soon (hopefully).

I love this verse....

“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

With everything that is going on in the world, it is so easy to become discouraged. But I am glad I can find peace in it all. Goodnight:)

I Could Possibly Be The Luckiest Mommy In The World...

2011-02-24T14:53:00.000-08:00

Really, I think I am. My kids are such a tremendous blessing to me. The other day I got Sophia dressed and she told me, "mommy, I a cutie pie". I told her she very much is and she told me to take a picture of her. So outside we went. Here are a few pictures I got of her. Words cannot ever describe how incredibly blessed I am and how thankful I am.

One Sick Mama, Sick Kiddos, and Valentine's Day

2011-02-19T10:49:00.001-08:00

Well, the worst happened. We all (except Juan) caught the stomach bug. Sophia's was short lived, thankfully. By Monday she was reduced to a cough that the doctor said to keep a close eye on. Luckily it went away without any type of medicine. Monday morning I was feeling very nauseous and decided to put a bag in my car incase I got sick on the way to take the kids to school. I made it back home and was feeling a lot better so went on about my day...lots of washing since Sophia had been so sick. I went to pick Merci up at 2:00 and she was crying that her stomach was hurting really bad. I pulled into the shopping center to go in and get her gatorade. I decided she wasn't well enough to go in so I wanted to take her home to stay with Juan while I ran back to the store. I gave her the bag just incase. Thank the Lord I did, because within seconds she needed it. I pulled over very quickly and tried to not throw up myself. I cannot stand the thought, site, or smell of vomit. I just can't. Ugh. I get her home and fixed in her bed and ran back to the store. By the time I get home she had thrown up a lot more so I called the nurse hotline. She tells me to take her to the ER, which I thought was silly. I already had the medicine from Sophia's prior visit on Saturday and knew there wasn't much they could do. But I took her in anyways. They inform me there is a nine hour wait. There were two people in the waiting room waiting who insisted they were having a heart attack. I knew it would be so ridiculous to stay there for nine hours just to be sent home. So I took her home. We were home about five minutes and I started throwing up. A lot. I was miserable trying to take care of sick Merci and a spunky two year old. Juan and Andrew tried to keep their distance from us hoping they would avoid the virus. By 10:00 p.m. Andrew ran down the stairs throwing up. This was a nightmare. Juan looked like a chicken with his head cut off running around trying to tend to all of us. I gave him Merci and Andrew duty and I made a pallet in the downstairs bathroom. Juan went Tuesday morning to pick up the rest of Sophia's medicine. Luckily the doctor gave us extra knowing we would need it. We took some and that was the end of the throwing up. Juan went to work and we laid on the couch all day watching movies. It was an adventure. The kids were back to school on Wednesday. Thankfully it was a short virus.

I am so glad we were all better because Thursday we drove over to San Diego and met up with an old friend from Florida. Him and his wife became very good friends of ours and their daughters are absolutely precious. He was here for a short school so it was only him but we had a great time. We ate at Joe's Crab Shack on the ocean. It was beautiful. We played catch up and had a fun time. We headed back home and the kids finished up their Valentine's Day cards for their parties.

On Friday, the kids celebrated Valentine's Day and had a blast. I was combing Andrew's hair and he said, "mom, don't make me too hot, ok." He makes my heart smile, really. Merci had fun decorating her cards and spent extra time on her "favorites".

Juan was so excited about our gifts he gave them to us on Friday night. He got the kids books and play dough and some other things. He got me a two year package to a tanning/spa close to our house. It is awesome. I have been a lot since he got me the package. It is so relaxing!

Andrew had his first t-ball practice on Saturday. He did great! He is loving this sport, I don't know if he will ever go back to soccer. Merci starts soccer practice on March 1st and is super excited. I know she will do great.

I feel so blessed. And I have said this before and I will say it again, our God is truly amazing. The power of prayer amazes me and I feel incredibly blessed to serve Him. I look forward to growing each day in Christ. I am only human and recognize my faults and thankful I am forgiven for them.

The Invisible Mother

2011-02-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

I have over a thousand unread emails in my inbox. I do not log on to my email by the computer very often unless I really need to and I do not like reading them from my phone. So a lot of them go unread. However, I was checking my email to see if Merci's soccer coach sent any information out and saw an email my mother-in-law sent. The title "The Invisible Mother" caught my attention because I can relate. I opened it up and began reading. It was a very touching email. It spoke of a mother who, over the time of raising her kids, began to feel invisible to everyone. She merely felt like a woman who sacrificed so many things for her family being a mother and it all went unnoticed and unappreciated. A friend gave her a book about the cathedrals built in Europe. The little book changed her entire views. The people who dedicated their lives to build the cathedrals made a tremendous sacrifice for something they would not even see the end results of. One of the most touching things I took from the email is when she concluded "the passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything." This is true about mothers as well. There are days I am sure my husband comes home and probably thinks to himself "wow, what did she do today?" If he only knew...

Being a mother is one of the hardest jobs. As clique as it may sound, it is very true. There are days I am sure it would be easier to put the kids in daycare and head to a 9-5 job. But I want to raise my kids and we are blessed enough for me to be able to stay home with them. I love being able to watch them grow and knowing what is going on in their lives. So as some days it may appear I am "griping" a lot, it is because it is a very stressful adventure. It isn't only about making sure they get their homework done and are at school on time, it is about making sure they are being raised so they can function as adults in a society that is so harsh. It is about making sure the values you want them to have are implemented on a daily basis so they never forget. Because once they are out on their own, their is very little you can do to change your mind about how you want them to be. It is teaching them about their faith and how turning away from God will only bring them hardship. It is teaching them about the consequences of their actions and how much they can affect their lives. It is teaching them about waiting to have sex for when they are married and not to do drugs, and having to do that without being so harsh about it that they want to rebel and do it anyways. Being a mother is hard. A lot falls on our shoulders. A lot. And I am not at all saying it isn't hard for fathers. I know it must be extremely stressful to have to worry about financially supporting a family and making sure your family doesn't go without they need. I have a tremendous amount of respect for my husband and the sacrifices he has made, not only for us, but for our country. I know him better than anyone else and I can honestly say he is an amazing man. At the end of the day we both want the same things, to be appreciated and recognized. I am certain God sees what I am trying to do for my kids and I am certain as long as I keep praying and believing he will help me achieve what I need to. And if my kids turn out to be respectable people and serve our amazing God, I will feel that I accomplished what I need to in life. And if it goes unnoticed to others, I know God has seen the sacrifices I have made and he will always appreciate me.

The last thing she says that I found point on is this "No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, no Cub Scout meeting, no last minute errand is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become". (These were her thoughts of what God would say to her)

I think after reading this email, I should make an effort to open more of the unread ones.

Oy!

2011-02-07T10:32:00.001-08:00

There are only a few things I can think of that are worse than seeing your baby sick. Especially a two year old little princess. And the fact that it came out of nowhere makes it a tad worse. Saturday we got up super early and took the kids fishing at Pond Park. It is a catch and release pond so we just took Merci and Andrew's poles and let Sophia be in charge of the net. You aren't allowed to use live bait so we took a loaf of bread and hot dog weiners. We were walking up and saw an older man with a lot of fishing gear ready to fish. He was ahead of us and already thrown out his pole. The pond isn't huge. It is way more long than wide. We stayed a good distance from him but what my kids did next made him look at us like we were the most evil people he had ever seen. What did we do you ask? We threw a piece of bread to a single duck. This caused about 50 ducks to come out of nowhere running across the water, over the man's fishing line. They were quacking and diving for bread and it seemed like there were a million of them. I couldn't imagine why the man would be so mad. It wasn't like you were trying to catch dinner. It was a catch and release. And arent' parks more for kids anyways? I looked at all of the signs and nothing ever said to not feed the ducks. Finally the kids stopped feeding the ducks and started fishing. After a whole 2 minutes they were discouraged they weren't catching a fish. So they ran around and threw more bread. Another man walked up with about seven fishing poles and he had his game face on. Really? It is a catch and RELEASE pond. He knew every fact about fish. And I mean EVERY fact. He even showed us pictures. Finally we decided to walk the kids to the very end of the park so they could finish off the bread. They had a blast and afterwards climbed some trees. The perfect day. Around 10 pm Sophia told me her tummy hurt. I didn't think much of it and she fell asleep without a problem. I took her to bed and after I got out of the shower I heard her crying. She had thrown up all over her bed. I changed her, put the sheets in the washer and took her to my bed. She threw up again. And again. And again. By 1:30am she had thrown up about twenty times and I knew she should go in. As I am getting her out of the carseat she does it again. I take her in and they give her a pill and within 30 minutes she is feeling much better. But as we all know the ER is a very slow place, meaning they are bad about getting you in and out. At least that's how this hospital is. We finally get home by 6am and we are exhausted. The other part of the virus soon set in and Sophia was miserable. She finally fell asleep at 3pm and slept until 6am. Now she is feeling much better but has a nasty cough. I am hoping for a few things...Sophia feels better, the sickness skips me and Juan, and the sickness skips Andrew and Merci.

Prayers

2011-02-01T21:40:00.000-08:00

Life is short. Life is unpredictable.

I keep up with a family whose daughter is fighting brain cancer. I have followed the story for a while now. I have cried and rejoiced with the family. I have found myself on my knees begging God to heal this little girl. And things were going well. After a horrible round of treatments, she was considered in remission. And this family has kept their faith better than anything I have ever witnessed. And today, as the little girl went in for a routine scan, they were very confident they wouldn't find anything bothersome. But they were wrong. Another spot was found. I have never met this family and my heart hurt for them as if it were my own. I was in shock, as the little girl has come so far and has not shown any signs of a new tumor. The parents are begging for prayers. Praying to God for a miracle. They know He can heal her. I pray, and I ask you to join me. We serve an awesome God and He can heal her, if it is His will.

After I read the news of the little girl and said a prayer, I looked over and saw Sophia sleeping. She looks so peaceful. I cannot put into words the feeling that I had. For a split second I imagined her being the one who is sick. I couldn't fathom it. I had to quickly change my thoughts and pray some more. It could easily be her, Andrew, or Merci. Or me. Or Juan. Or anyone in our family. I cannot imagine the pain the family is going through. I cannot imagine the thoughts the little girl must have. All I can imagine is our Father. We are not guaranteed tomorrow. None of us, no matter who we are. Rich or poor. Beautiful or ugly. White or black. The only thing that is for certain is we are all children of God. We all have a chance to be saved.

Here is the link to her website. Please pray for her and her family. http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mcraekate

Juan is now a Captain! I am so proud of him and very grateful for his hard work. He is very dedicated to the Marine Corps and they are very lucky to have him!

Just Dance...

2011-01-27T18:13:00.000-08:00

So, last week a note was sent home with Merci about dance tryouts. Each participant needed to have a one minute dance prepared and tryouts were yesterday. Every child who tried out would be placed in a class but depending on their skills would decide which class. Merci tried out! And did good! She was nervous but still I think the judges were impressed. Tomorrow she will find out if she is in the beginners class or advanced. Also, yesterday was Wacky Wednesday. Andrew was not feeling it. But I made him get all whacked out and he loved it. He wore shorts, a green shirt, two different socks, two different shoes, a WILD hairdo and freckles. Yep, I got out my liquid eyeliner and made dots all over his face. It was really whacky. Merci wore green sweats, a striped shirt, purple knee highs, two different shoes, and REALLY whacky hair. We got to school and Merci noticed it looked like only the kindergartners were dressed up. I took Andrew to class and by the time I got back to the car she refused to get out. We sat there for ten minutes until we saw an older kid with blue hair. I was worried the dress up day was only for the little ones, but luckily I was wrong. Merci got out and I died laughing as I watched her walk away, she did look REALLY whacky! I picked Andrew up and he ran my errands with me looking like a wild child. He really soaked in the attention. The dots on his face made it really funny. Today was pajama day for the kindergartners and he sported his Scooby Doo nighties. This morning when he took a shower and scrubbed his face, I was a little panic stricken when he got out. The dots were still there, not even faded. I looked at my eyeliner and it read, "Waterproof". Greeeeaaaatttttt. I decided I would get it off with eye makeup remover, that didn't fade them. So I slathered his face with vaseline and rubbed off with a wet wash cloth and it worked, whew! Sophia still has hers I made on her cheeks and she goes into panic mode if I try to take them off. I guess I will just wait for them to fade on their own. If they covered her face like Andrew's did, I would make sure I got them off.

Oh, last thing. Today I took Andrew and Sophia to the mall with me for some shopping. We were at Forever 21 checking out when I looked over and saw my dear Sophia pottying all over the floor. WHAT?! She is potty trained and rarely has accidents so I was surprised. I asked the clerk for paper towels and she handed me a roll of toilet paper. She walked over and said "oh did she spill her juice?" I looked at her and said, yeah kinda. I mean I am sure she was getting rid of what she had just drank, right? I had to try to find humor somewhere in cleaning my 2 year olds potty off of the floor while everyone waiting in line was staring at me:)

"Be still, and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10

2011-01-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

"Be still, and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10

It's a sad day. Its a day to rejoice. Actually there are a lot of mixed emotions so that is where the Bible verse comes in. Today I will hug my family tighter, tell them I love them over and over, and I will know that God is in control. Yesterday I got news my cousin went to Heaven. He was in his 40's and had health problems since he was born. I am not going to go into details out of respect for family. I never lived close to him or got to really know him personally. But I do know I loved him. I remember him being such a good guy and asked about him often. I wish I would have made an effort to know him better. And now it is too late. But I know he is in a better place and will never suffer again. I know we serve a God who promised that and I feel at such peace knowing he is not in pain anymore and never will be again. I am giving today to God, I am praying for my family and those closest to him. I know without a doubt that God will comfort us and wrap His arms around us.

A Few Pictures

2011-01-22T14:10:00.000-08:00

Me and my Love

Andrew

Merci at Disneyland

Sophia:)

Sophia

Merci at her choir concert

The Simple Life

2011-01-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

Well, things have been going well. The kids finally are getting back into the routine of school and I like that. I don't mind my schedule being thrown off every once in a while, but I really like structure. Andrew and Merci really enjoy going to school which makes my life a lot easier. In fact, 99 percent of the time I pick Andrew up he begs to stay longer. Sophia even wants to stay. However, I know if she saw me leave there would be a complete breakdown. Maybe I will start her in preschool in the next year so she can get used to it.

Merci is in choir at school and had a performance on Thursday night. They sang in front of the school board and it was really nice. They did one song, which was perfect because Sophia was talking really loud the entire time. Juan let me know how teary eyed he got when they started singing. I love a sensitive man. I told him he was a big wimp and we laughed together. Even though we were laughing we were looking in each others eyes and it was one of those unspoken moments. Merci is growing up. And so are Andrew and Sophia. But they are still in the "baby" years. Merci isn't. It is sad. Period. As many of you all know it has been a rough ride for her over the years. She was 2 1/2 when I met her and Juan. That is Sophia's age now. And now she is 10. It just seems so unreal at times the way things happened. I know God has a reason for everything and as much as I hate the situation she has endured, it has opened so many doors for us and brought us closer together. We have laughed together, cried together, and we have came together as a family.

I am slowly learning how to cherish the moments I have with my kids. I know when I was ten I couldn't wait to be a grown up. If I had a dime for every time my mom told me to enjoy life while I was young because being a grown up would come so quickly, I could buy my own island. And now when Merci talks to me about how she wants to decorate her house when she is older and the pets she wants to have, I can't help but laugh. I was her not too long ago. I appreciate my mom more every day I live. She is without a doubt the strongest, most unselfish person I have ever known. And no mattter who I ever meet, noone will compare to her. It is impossible.

What A Vet Visit...

2011-01-13T22:03:00.000-08:00

Who knew taking a dog to the vet could be so traumatic. And I am not talking about for the dog. Note 3253: Andrew does not do well in veterinarian settings. Period. When I scheduled our Brussels Griffon's vet visit I made it for when Andrew was out of school because I thought he would like to go. He has a heart for animals and would take in every stray if we let him. So I thought this would be a good experience for him. Boy was I ever wrong. I picked him up from school and we headed to the vet. He was already asking if Cody's shots would make him bleed. I explained to him the process and it was not a big deal at all. We check Cody in and I ask them to check if he has a chip. Since we adopted him, I wasn't sure. Andrew freaked out. And this was just the little scanner that Cody could have cared less about. We take Cody back and Andrew and Sophia are fighting over who gets to hold the leash and I am now regretting bringing them with me. Finally they come in and we decided they should take Cody to the back for his shots, for Andrew's sake. I always like them to do the shots in front of me so I know I am getting what I pay for. But I really don't think Andrew could have handled it. His little body was trembling. At this point Sophia is crying too and I cannot wait to get out of there. We leave and Andrew is okay. The funniest part about it is he has never acted like that even when he has to get shots. His little heart is so tender.

Today we took Cody to the groomer and now he looks like a handsome Brussels Griffon. Another exciting thing...our dear Sophia decided 4am would be the new 7. She was wide awake at 4 and ready for her day to start. If you know me, you know I am NOT a morning person. I have a hard time falling asleep at night so I am up really late, kinda like right now. So I need my sleep. She also thought it would be nice to wake Andrew and Merci up. So now we had three little rugrats up before the sun. But that's not the funniest part, Sophia did not take a nap all day and did not fall asleep until 9:30 tonight. Today has been long. She was extremely cranky and I hope she gets a good rest so we can do it all again tomorrow!

The kids new mattresses come in tomorrow and I am way more excited than I should be. I don't know why I love new things, decorating things, reorganizing things. Some people like alcohol, I like rearranging things. It makes me happy, makes my kids happy, and makes my house neat. I actually just bought my first staple gun and I can't wait to use it. First project is to reupholster a chair. So excited!!!

This weekend will be pretty uneventful, which is good. I plan on making a fabric run to Joanne's on Saturday and well, you guessed it, rearranging and organizing some things. Oh, one project is to get block letters that spell "Bruce", paint them and hang above Andrew's guinea pig's cage. How fun! Sunday is church and lunch with a good friend. I love lazy weekends.

I am now going to lay here and listen to my little angel snore. Sometimes the most annoying sounds are the most precious ones:)

Silly California

2011-01-11T10:23:00.000-08:00

So, the kids FINALLY went back to school today. Yes, finally. They have been out for about 25 days and that is just a long time. Really. It is. And not just for me, but them as well. There is only so much you can do with rainy, chilly weather. They needed to get back into school, back with their friends. This morning went ok. I had to drag Andrew out of bed and Merci got up pretty well. We were out of the house on time and didn't forget anything. I even remembered Merci's lunch money! We were waiting outside waiting for the gate to open and Andrew was shivering. He looked to the sky and said "I wish Jesus would open the heavens a little and let the warmth out." It was so cute. I love to see my kids talk about Jesus and know who He is. It is truly heart warming. That reminds me of something. When Andrew was three he had a little tickle in his chest. He started laughing uncontrollably and when I asked him what he was laughing at he told me Jesus was tickling him. We have always taught them that Jesus lives in their hearts if they ask Him to and he was convinced that "tickle" was Jesus.

I signed Sophia up for gymnastics class. She goes for a trial visit on Friday so I can see if is is worth the money. She seems excited even though she has no idea what it is. She misses her Andrew and Merci today. She can't wait to pick them up, and honestly, I can't either. I am sure once the fighting sets in tonight I will be ready for tomorrow morning! I am super excited about making dinner tonight, chicken fried chicken with homemade mashed potatoes. Yummy, yummy!

Oops...

2011-01-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it again. I sorta forgot about my blog. Let's play catch up!! Christmas was great. We spent it as just our family of five and it was such a relaxed day. I was one of those crazy shoppers who finishes up on Christmas Eve. I ordered all of the "big" stuff online so all I had to get was stocking stuffers. I waited in line for 45 minutes at Claire's so I could buy Sophia all the princessy goodness she needed. Was she worth it? Absolutely! I also grabbed Merci a few things there, too. She was pleased. Then I battled Toys R Us. Even crazier. But I survived. Then to the awful, dreaded Walmart. Target is and always will be my first choice but they closed earlier than Walmart so I did not have a choice. Man, I was regretting not doing this shopping earlier. But I managed. My total Christmas eve shopping was about four hours and it was a nice break from the kids. They went to bed after baking Santa his favorite chocolate chip cookies. The elves made footprints all over the house and even put together all of the toys. How nice of the elves;)

The kids woke up bright and early Christmas morning and were amazed. They tore open their gifts and were excited about the note Santa left. It told them how they should always remember the true meaning of Christmas and left them a book about Jesus. They were thrilled. I made a huge feast for lunch...fajitas, refried beans, spanish rice, pecan pies, divinity, and fruit salad. We stayed in our pajamas all day and watched movies. It was so nice.

The next day we met Merci's aunt and uncle in Banning. They got Merci for a few days and had a blast. Merci baked cakes, played with her cousins, and went to an airplane museum. We picked her up on her birthday. She wasn't ready to leave but we were ready to have her back! We got her a "real" cellphone for her birthday and she was ecstatic. She has texted the life out of it. We went over the rules for having it and so far, so good.

That pretty much sums up the last couple of weeks. I am trying to update this thing more often, I just get so busy. The kids will be starting their sports soon; Merci in soccer and Andrew in t-ball. Sophia will also be starting a dance or gymnastics class as well. So to say I will be buys just might be an understatement. But it is my New Year's Resolution to keep up with this more often!

2010-11-24T21:20:00.000-08:00

So, we made it to Texas! Of course I could leave it at that, but I must give the details. Trust me, they are good! On Thursday we went to Andrew's school play. It was so simple and cute.

After his play we headed home and finished loading the car. We picked Merci up at 12:30 and headed out. About an hour out of San Diego things got interesting.

Fibi, our ten year old chihuahua got car sick. On my leg. Yu

ck, gross, ewww. I changed quickly in the car and we went on. Sophia did great. For those who know Sophia, you know she hates car rides with a passion. Hates them. She did not cry one time. We kept Barney on and around 9:30pm she fell asleep and slept all night. Merci and Andrew slept off and on but didn't

get any solid sleep. At 3am we were terrified when Merci and Andrew started screaming. Cody, our three year old Brussels Griffon pottied. Yes, on Merci's leg. I laughed so hard I cried. That is what sleep deprivation does, it takes something gross and makes it hilarious. I couldn't help it. We made it to Odessa by 7:30am. Juan took a nap and we hung out. My brother, sister-in-law, niece, and nephew came in Friday night. I have missed Finley and Atticus so much. It was heaven seeing them:)

While playing ball with his Uncle, Andrew got a nice little shiner on his eye:

The kids played and played:

We are in Angleton now and having a good time. I am looking forward to time with my mom and seeing my friends and family in Bryan!

Crafting

2010-11-15T17:13:00.000-08:00

So, I got a sewing machine for my birthday several months ago and love it. I had never used one and now I am really getting the hang of it. I love, love, love looking up different things to make for the kids and stay up late trying to master it. I went to Joann's and got some really cute fabric. However, I am still nervous to use the "good" stuff so I have just been playing around with little scraps and such. I have tried to add ruffles to Sophia's jeans and I get them on but I am not happy with how they look. It will take time but I am so excited that I have found something I love doing. And I do love it, a lot. It makes me want to have about then more kids just so I can keep making the cute baby stuff...I am so kidding. I will make it for other kids:)

We are so close to Texas time it isn't even funny!!!! I have most clothes for the kids picked out and just need to throw in a suitcase. I need to pack me and the hubby and get stuff for the actual car ride together. It sounds like a lot but I am a pro at this.

I got an email from Merci's soccer coach that she was one of the girls he nominated for all stars. Yay!! I think I am way more excited than she is. She is incredibly nervous about trying out. She goes Wednesday evening and they will do have an hour of soccer skills and an hour long scrimmage. I think she is most nervous about that part. If she makes it they will play a tournament in January! I am so excited for her!!! And so proud!!!!

Andrew is doing great, just being Andrew. He has convinced himself he is already a professional t-ball player and is going to make it big one day. We shall see...

Sophia is doing great, too. She is doing great on the toilet training process and loves to spend her days swinging. She also loves to watch Elmo sing the ABC's. She is at such a cute age, but the temper tantrums have made their way through our door and we are trying to calmly deal with them. When she is throwing herself on the floor after I told her no to a piece of candy at 6:30am, I tell myself this too shall pass. And it does for a moment. She is such a joy.

My kids rock, hands down. Each one brings such a sense of wonderfulness to my life.

Bittersweet...

2010-11-13T14:13:00.000-08:00

Well, the kids had their last soccer games today. Unfortunatley it worked out to where they were both playing at the same time. I dropped Andrew, Juan and Sophia off at Andrew's game at 8:40. I then took Merci to hers and unloaded the snacks. Then I rushed back to Andrew's game. He did amazing. He made three goals within minutes and he just did awesome. Every game he improves. I am glad he is wanting to try out other sports but sad he isn't doing soccer in the spring. After his half time I left Juan there with him and went over to Merci's game with Sophia. When I got there the score was 0-0. It was a few minutes before half time and the girls looked tired. The ending score was

2010-11-12T07:49:00.000-08:00

So, the past few days have gone over pretty smoothly. Actually, not so much. It started on Tuesday when I went in for what I thought was a simple dental cleaning. I am terrible about going to the dentist because I am petrified. Like, I would much rather drill a hole in each toe than go to the dentist. Ok, maybe not to that extreme, but I am scared. So instead of going to my six month cleanings, I whiten my teeth with white strips. This makes me feel better because white teeth mean healthy teeth, right? Wrong! So I get to the dentist and they let me know they need to do a deep cleaning that requires my mouth to be numbed. Eeeek. They start off with just putting a gel on top that is supposed to do the trick without the needle. Did not work. I endured the pain. I was sweating, heart racing, kicking my feet around. So she decided the shot was necessary for the bottom. She numbed me good, so good I could not swallow and was convinced my throat was closing in. I panicked. Big, big time. Finally, I was able to swallow, I was sweating so bad, tears streaming down my face. Was I seriously acting this way? After two long hours I was done. I could not talk because my mouth was so numb but they kept asking me questions. I was convinced they were doing that so they could get a laugh. I got home and Juan was able to get in a few "roll on the floors laughing" moments. Glad I could make someone's day! That night I went for a manicure and pedicure to get ready for the Marine Corps Ball on Wednesday...

On Wednesday I had a hair appointment at 1:00. We were leaving at 4:30 for the ball. Juan's brother was going to babysit. I had my dress. Everything was going so smoothly. I had convinced myself I would have a great time even though dressing up is NOT my thing. I was at my hair appointment until about 4:15 and my phone had died so I rushed home so I could do my makeup. I run in, up the stairs, and tear open my makeup. I am slopping it on when Juan walks in and says "babe, we have a problem". Great, what now?! He went on to tell me that he was ironing his pants when he noticed the iron left something black on them. Simple solution, wash them. So he did. When he took them out he could tell something was not right. They had shrunk, a lot. There are certain rules to where the bottom of your pants have to fall over your shoes. His were way off. But we didn't give up. We pulled them down and safety pinned them to his undies. Perfect solution. Not really. He was sagging so bad. His jacket did not cover it. He told me there was no way we could go. Really?!? I looked semi good with my hair curled and tons of makeup on. Ugh. His brother got there and he got a good laugh at his brother washing 100% wool pants. Juan and I decided to go to dinner since I was dressed up and we had a sitter. We went to Yardhouse and had a great time. I think everything happens for a reason so we just decided to laugh at the situation.

The kids had yesterday and today off from school. Yesterday me and Merci went through clothes and junk to take to Goodwill. I had an appointment at 2:30 and Andrew had speech at 4:00. We rushed him to soccer practice at 4:30, I left there at 5:30 to get Sophia her flu shot, and Juan took the Merci to her practice. When I got to the doctor's office there was a boy screaming "I don't want a shot, I don't want to die". He screamed over and over. It reminded me of my dentist appointment. Sophia walked in and sat down. I pulled her pants down, they poked her and she said "wahhhh". It was so fake. I asked her if she wanted a sticker and she got up and that was it. I am so lucky when it comes to my kids getting shots. They have always been awesome. Today I am taking her into the doctor because I suspect she has a UTI. I hope not but taking her in just incase. Tomorrow are the kids last soccer games. Bittersweet. We are leaving for Texas in less than a week and I am ecstatic!!!

Just Another Day...

2010-11-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

Last night we decided we would take advantage of the kid's school family fun night. It benefits the PTA and was extremely cheap and fun. We ate hot dogs and watched How to Train A Dragon outside under the stars. We took chairs and blankets. All of this fun for only five bucks, total. And since we brought in canned food we got free popcorn! Sounds like the perfect family night, right? Wrong! Well, it wasn't terrible but Sophia was freaked out by the huge blow up screen and screamed, loud. So I took her to Sonic to get a drink and we sat in the car watching Toy Story. I talked to my mom and dad for a while on the phone so it passed time. Merci and Andrew had a blast and Juan enjoyed the movie, so overall a good night. This morning Merci had a game at 9:30 and unfortunatley her team lost. They had one goal and the other team had five, or six...maybe seven? I stopped counting after four...But the girls had fun so that is what counts...

Andrew played at 11:00 and I really do not know what has gotten into that kid but he has been on fire at his games. He stays so focused now and is really starting to understand the game. He played against two boys who were on his team last year and they had a good time. This age they are really good sports. Andrew did not score but played really good defense. Next weekend is the end of the season. I am sad. I look forward to going to their games, cheering them on. But next season will be here before we know it. Now the Texas A&M game is on so I am sure I will not be seeing my husband for a few hours...

A Few More Andrew-isms....

2010-11-05T07:03:00.000-07:00

Ok, I looked over some old posts and wanted to "document" a couple of funny things Andrew said in the past....

I had forgotten about this one until I read it again. About a year ago Andrew was playing with toys as I was playing with Sophia. All of a sudden he looked over at her and then me and said "they grow up so fast." It was really funny coming from a then four year old.

Andrew had to get a TB test for preschool, along with a few shots. I took him in and they did the test, told him it was a TB test and to come back in a few days so they could check it. When we left he was eerily quiet. I thought it was probably because he had so many needles poked into him. Finally I asked him what was wrong. Here is is response "well, mom, I know they need to do that TV test and, well, I am really worried because I watch a lot of TV, do you think that will show up?" I almost had to pull over, it was really cute.

That is a couple of things, I need to scroll down my facebook posts so I can share more.

Merci and Andrew both have games tomorrow. Right now Merci's team is in 7th place, out of 9....winning tomorrow's game isn't going to make a huge difference but will help their pride:) We are so proud of how far she has came, her coach is even putting her on the list to try out for allstars!!!

Laughter Keeps Me Young

2010-11-02T13:47:00.001-07:00

Ok, if you read my blog, (and I have no idea if you do) you know that my kids are funny, especially Andrew. God gives us all special gifts, what I like to think of as our tools for life. One of Andrew's is his sense of humor. He puts no effort into trying to make us laugh, it is all natural. I am going to start making special posts that are just about the funny things my kids say and do. Let's face it, this world is spiraling down hill. Laughing and smiling is what keeps me going.

Last night we were watching a lady sing "God Bless America" on t.v (a baseball game). The camera is showing people in the audience and it closes in on George and Laura Bush. Andrew got the most puzzled look on his face and said "hey what are Mammow and Gary doing at that baseball game?" It was so funny, really. I called my mom right away because I knew she would get a great laugh out of that. Andrew came in and heard I was telling her and he said "wow she's a cutie". See, he is a mess.

Today when I picked him up from school he said "mom, I got chased by girls again, third day in a row, can't I get a day off?"

There are so many funny things he has said and done. I need to go over all of my old facebook statuses to remember some things he has said. I love my kids, I love my life;)

November, Really?

2010-11-01T09:04:00.001-07:00

Wow, I seriously cannot believe it is November. This time last year Juan was deployed and I was not excited about spending Thanksgiving in California away from my Texas family. I remember taking the kids to pick out a toy that morning and they were so excited. I was glad to be able to sway their minds away from being away from their daddy and Texas family. But inside my heart was breaking. I remember talking to my mom that day and family was there, when we hung up all I could do was cry. It was the first holiday I had ever spent away from family. Of course the kids kept my spirits up but it was still different. BUT this year we are getting ready for our road trip to Texas and I am super excited. We are taking the kids out of school for an extra week and we are going to have a blast!!

The kids had a great weekend. They were so excited to wear their costumes to school on Friday. Merci was a candy corn witch, Andrew was Buzz, and Sophia was a pirate. I went to Andrew's Halloween party Friday morning but after 10 minutes ended up in the car with Sophia. She was terrified of the teachers dressed up as crayons. She. Freaked. Out. Like she was shaking. I felt sorry for her because she was so scared and sorry for Andrew because I couldn't stay with him. But he still had a blast. Friday evening Merci went to her friends Halloween party and stayed the night. We signed Andrew up for t-ball. He was beyond excited. He was sure to tell the ladies his dad knows everything about baseball. So cute. I will miss watching him play soccer but so excited that he is wanting to try new things. Merci is doing soccer again, she really likes it.

Saturday morning Andrew had a game at 9. However, it was raining pretty hard at 7:30 and still at 8:30 but the game was not cancelled. When we got to the fields it had let up a lot but there was hardly anyone there. Four of our players showed up and we combined some boys from other teams so they got to play and did great. Andrew made two goals and loved getting dirty.

By the time Merci's game came along at 1:15, it was perfect weather. They played a team they beat before and the girls were certain they would beat them again. Nope. The team got revenge and won 3-0. Ouch. The girls were upset and surprised. But that isn't the worst part of the game. Sophia was running to the field and when I picked her up she screamed. Not just a regular mad scream. But a horrific, painful scream. Why? Because a bee stung her ear. It was terrible. Parents came running to her while I held her. They got the stinger out and we put ice on it. As soon as a mom offered her M&M's she was so over it. Her ear swelled up pretty big and was bright red. She is fine now, thank goodness.

Yesterday we went trick-or-treating around the neighborhood. Andrew and Merci were pros but it took Sophia a while to warm up. But once she did, she was on fire. They had a blast and good memories were made. So glad Juan is home so we can share the memories together. I can't imagine what he felt last year going through all of the holidays without us. Pray for all of our troops sacrificing for our country. What wonderful men and women.

Well, Hmmm...

2010-10-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Well, here is the soccer game break down for past Saturday's games: Andrew played first. He did really well. Two goals. No injuries. Loved his snack. Too bad they don't keep score at this age, his team has played fantastic. And Andrew knows it. He will tell anyone willing to listen to him exactly how many goals he made. And if he didn't make any in a game he will tell them exactly how he set up goals for his team. It's really cute.

Now for Merci's game, the game that meant a lot. They played great. They really, really did. But lost, 3-0. It was crushing for them. The score at half time was 0-0 which meant for all that time they played an amazing defense. The team they played is undefeated so that was a big deal. So, to say the least, they were upset. But it is okay. I think as crushed as they were it was a good life lesson for them, Merci at least. It gave me an opportunity to talk to her about winning and loosing. Being respectful, a good sport. And about taking pride in her accomplishments while recognizing what needs improvement. As soon as I mentioned we were going to Buffalo Wild Wings, she was so over it.

We went home and picked Juan up and headed to lunch. It was a lot of fun to sit down and relax. After lunch we headed to the pumpkin patch. I remember going last year with my friend Ashley and it was burning up. This year it was really cold. Sophia is old enough now to really enjoy seeing everything. She loved, I mean LOVED the petting zoo. She would not leave a particular goat alone. She chased it all over the place, hugged it, kissed it(ewwww). We drug her away to head to the pig races. It was so fun! Andrew and Merci rode the ponies, Sophia was too scared of that. And then we waited for an hour to enjoy a 3 minute train ride. And by 3 minutes, I am talking about the time it took to load, ride, and unload. But the kids had a blast. By this point Sophia is filthy and has a dirty diaper, so we leave.

The next day is Juan's birthday and he has to work. Bummer. So we celebrated Saturday night. He had a good time. I got him a new pair of running shoes. Merci got him a book, Andrew got him a flashlight, and Sophia got him a back scratcher. He had a red velvet cupcake and we made hotdogs. I could tell how much it meant to him, that makes me happy:)

The next morning, Sunday was not so good. Andrew was up during the night with croup. Sophia had croup the previous week but it was getting better. Anyways, by 7am he was still having a hard time breathing and Sophia had a lot of green drainage. But most worrisome to me was her finger. Yes, another horrific finger story. A few days earlier while I was taking out my disgusting turkey meatballs from the oven, Sophia touched the oven rack with her pointer finger. OUCH. She cried a few minutes and was fine after we put ice on it. By Saturday she had a blister and by Saturday evening the blister popped. Sunday morning her finger was swollen and it looked gross. From our previous experience with an infected finger, I wasted no time in taking her in. So we went to Urgent Care. The doctor gave her antibiotics and she is doing great! I have finally convinced her to keep her band-aid on so I feel comfortable taking her out in public!

Andrew went to the zoo on Tuesday and I completely overreacted to him being gone. I had every fear about him going on a bus to San Diego and another parent being responsible for him. And the bus didn't get back until 3:45 so it was a long day. He jumped off of the bus like a big boy and ran to me like a little boy. I was so relieved. No more field trips for a while!!

This weekend will be busy for us. We are signing Andrew up for t-ball Friday night. Merci and Andrew have games Saturday. We have church Sunday morning, the fall festival at church and a little trick-or-treating Sunday evening. I can't wait until November, so close to Texas time!!!

It Really IS The Little Things In Life

2010-10-20T17:10:00.001-07:00

So, I really don't have too much to update on. The kids are doing great, besides Sophia's runny nose. She runs to me and tells me to "huwy, get the boogies out." Who knew anything related to snot could be so cute?? Today when we went to Target I asked her if she would like to go look at the Halloween stuff. She shook her head no and told me "this baby scared." I love this age.

My title pretty much sums it all up. The last few days have been uneventful but I cherish every moment I am alive and able to see my children grow. They are all three miracles and I feel very lucky and blessed to have them in my life. I love to see their love for the Lord developing more everyday and when complete strangers compliment me on how I am raising them it assures me I really am here for a reason. I have been thinking about my New Year's resolution and one thing on my list is to start enjoying and appreciating simple things and not dwelling on the big negatives.

Happy Wednesday to you all:)

P.S. Merci's team is in 5th place. Good!! BUT on Saturday they are playing the number two team. Her team REALLY needs to win this game. Cross your fingers, toes, braid your hair... whatever needs to be done. I will update after the game!

Wonderful Weekend!!

2010-10-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

This weekend was great!!

We started Friday night off by doing crafts for fall. The kids had fun tracing their hands and putting stickers on papers. We ate an awesome fall spice casserole. Well, we thought it was great but the kids ended up eating cereal. Oh well, that's life:) We sipped hot chocolate while watching movies in Sophia's bed. It was so much fun to just relax with the kids. But I think we had a little too much fun because the next morning at exactly 7:28 I went into panic mode. We overslept. This does not happen often, but we were just so tired. Juan was already at work and I was rushing around like a mad woman. Why? Because Merci had to be at the soccer field at 7:30. Yes, I had TWO minutes. Of course it was so unrealistic to get her there at that time but her game did not start until 8:00 so we had time. Merci and Andrew got dressed as fast as they could. I threw on some sweats grabbed Sophia some clothes and ran out of the door. We were at the fields at 8:45, even though none of us were very awake.

I am so thankful we got there in time. Merci's team, Sugar Rush bombed the other team 5-1. Two goals went to Merci. She might have been tired but she played great. After her game we went to the store to get things for the pool party her coach was hosting for the girls doing so great at their games. We rushed through the store like crazy people because we had exactly half an hour to get home and changed for Andrew's game. And we did. We got home, I threw some stuff in the crockpot and got us changed and out of the door. At this point I am feeling like Super Mom. Keep reading, I totally earned the title...

We get to Andrew's game and he is pumped. I get our blanket laid out and Sophia settled down just when the coach lets us know we are on the wrong field. Ugh. So we move. As we are moving, I hear a screaming cry. I didn't have to turn my head, I knew it was Andrew. That is totally a mom thing. He came running to me with a bleeding mouth. Andrew is a dramatic child and it was blood but the way he was crying you would have thought it was gushing out of every body part he had. He bumped into another player and hit his mouth. He was fine, even though I had to threaten him that we were leaving for him to stop crying. He got in the game and did really good. He thinks he made a goal and I don't have the heart to tell him that he didn't. So we will just keep that between us;)

We now had exactly one hour until the pool party started. So what do we do? I get my eyebrows waxed. It was much needed and did not care at this point how long it took. I was getting it done. We went home, I made peanut butter sandwiches and got the rest of the stuff together. We stopped at the gas station to get ice and headed to the party. My plan was to drop Merci and the food off and take the younger two to eat. By the time we got there Sophia was out. I decided to lay her on the couch and let her nap. Andrew was able to borrow a bathing suit and jumped in. Sophia woke up an hour later crying to swim. Being the super mom I am I went to the store to buy her swim diapers, left her shirt on and let her jump in(she borrowed floaties). An hour later it is time to go. Whew. I have made it through half of the day. Our plan was to run to the mall to get jeans, head home to pack and head to San Diego. Juan got us a hotel room on base so we could stay with him and we had a birthday party Sunday morning. Our "quick" trip to the mall turned into two and a half hours. Before you get jealous that I got to shop that long, stop. It was the worst shopping trip of my life. Sophia acted like a mad woman. The worse incident of the adventure, and there were a lot was when we were all crammed into a tiny dressing room while I tried on jeans. I was getting ready to put them on when she slid under the door and took off. Great. No pants on and my two year old was gone. I hurried and got them on, ran out and didn't see her. I turned and she was curled into a ball laughing. AHHHHH. I brought her back in, got dressed and decided on those jeans, I didn't care they weren't my favorite, I HAD to get out of there. Finally we headed home. I packed us all up and we headed out. It was already getting dark but I was excited to go. So we went. I hate driving to San Diego without Juan and it was raining, but we did great. Oh, except for Sophia taking her arms out of her car seat. Gasp. I swear the hairs on my head are turning gray. We finally got to base, rented some movies and ate. The room was really nice and we had good family time. Except for my ticket I found on my car this morning. Since my car is fairly new I have not gotten stickers on it yet.

We went to a birthday party this morning and even though it was rainy and cold, the kids had a blast. We went back to base and went bowling. Sophia won. Weird, I know. We came home, rested and ate dinner. Overall it was a wonderful weekend. I am exhausted but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Here are some funny things the kids have said/done:

Merci: She could not believe teachers got paid. She thought they just did it for fun and went to work after the kids went home.

The other day when she was reading her sewing book she frantically started looking for a pen and paper. I asked her what she was doing and she said the booklet said to take note.

Andrew: He needed to wear red, white and blue to school. Juan picked him out a shirt that had a visible stain. When I pointed it out Juan insisted it wasn't noticeable. When I said it was very noticeable Andrew told Juan " yeah dad, listen to the woman."

Today at the birthday party Andrew looked sad and I took him to the bathroom to see what was wrong. He was staring in the mirror and when I asked him what was wrong he said he looked like such a geek...

Sophia: Hmmmm, she is just a mess!! She decided to color the cabinets and walls upstairs blue for us. How nice of her...

Today when she bowled she would throw her hands in the air and yell "YAY" really loud:)

I could get used to this...

2010-09-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

So, we are back. I kept thinking during the game that I couldn't wait to get back and blog. But I realize that I wrote the last blog a little too late, not enough time for my readers to cross their fingers and toes. Yes, Merci's team lost. 6-1. Ouch. But don't you worry. That proud "1" goes to MY daughter. She scored the one and only goal. She is still upset because her time as goalie they scored two goals on her. But hey she got the only ONE goal:) Proud mama, I am. And can you believe the temp was 106? WHOA. I mean I was on the verge of a heat stroke just sitting there and the girls were playing there hearts out. I personally think the game should have been cancelled, but I am only team mom. So, they played. We were all proud that they didn't give up even though they knew the game was lost.

Andrew and Sophia ran around playing with other kids and drinking a lot of water. I kept calling Juan to let him know how the game was going. He hates missing their games. But I try to keep him as up-to-date as I can.

I am excited about possibly keeping up with this blog. We will see how it all goes. Even if noone ever reads it, it feels good to just write, vent, brag...

OK, so blogging isn't my THING....

2010-09-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am REALLY bad with updating this thing. Actually, I had forgotten about it. I went to my Facebook page to add my school and saw the link to this. I got super excited and decided I would try to keep up with it now. So, did you catch that school part? Yep, that's right. I got into Texas A &M Commerce. I will be taking classes online to get my degree in Business. I am super excited and feel like I am on the road to success. Ok, maybe not but I feel like I am at least setting a good example for my kids. I will be starting in the spring and so excited!!!!!

I am not going to play catch up on this blog...For two reasons: 1. It would be a book, it has almost been a year since I have last written. 2. If you are a follower of this, chances are you already know everything...through facebook or phone calls. So, no playing catch up here.

Andrew had a soccer game this morning. He didn't make any goals but did so good setting some goals up. This is only the second game in his soccer career he has not scored a goal. Last year he was too excited for his birthday party that he kept running off of the field asking if it were time to go. And this time, well, lets just say a cute little blonde who is in his class was playing on the field next to his. He was fascinated. I mean, a cute girl who he has adored since the first day of class AND she plays soccer. Wow. So to say the least, his mind was not on the game today. But his team won and that's all that matters:)

After the game we went to the mall to get little Sophia some new shoes and then to McDonalds. Now we are getting ready for Merci's game. I will blog about that later tonight. Cross your fingers and toes, they need to win this game!!!

It's Been TOO Long!

2010-01-17T08:27:00.000-08:00

Wow, it has been such a long time since I have written on this blog. It is crazy how a mom of three with a deployed husband has little time for things. Let me see if I can play catch up without writing a book...This past summer was spent in Texas for me, Andrew, and Sophia. Where was Merci you ask...in Hawaii!! Yes, lucky girl! She spent a few weeks there with her Granny and Grumpy and now she wants to be stationed there. Me, not so much. Anyways, we all had a good summer but it was good to get back home into our routine. But that "routine" did not last too long...September 23 my love deployed. While he wanted to be in the actual fighting (it's a Marine thing), I was super excited he was on a ship. It really helps a wife sleep better knowing her best friend isn't over "there". It is now January and we are halfway through this. YES! I have to tell myself everyday "you can do this" over and over. And by the grace of God, I have done it. I must also point out that my precious little nephew, Atticus, was born the day he deployed. It was a bitter sweet day. I was so very sad, yet so very happy. I finally got to meet my precious nephew over the Christmas break. It was a long drive to Texas, which I wouldn't have made it through without my wonderful Nana. The stay there was great and my mom endured the trip back with us. We stopped in Tucson to stay the night and I woke up with a horrible stomach virus. It was no fun driving back with that. Sophia got her finger smashed in the bathroom door and I knew it hurt her terribly but thought it would heal just fine. However, a few days ago it started looking very gross and swollen and she started running a temp. That scared me because first thing I thought was infection. So, being the paranoid mommy that I am I took her to the ER. We got there and Sophia had a look on her face like she knew we were there for her and she did not like it. So, they go to take her vitals and she is screaming her head off. Then they pull out the thermometer. I said "I don't think she is old enough to hold that in her mouth." The nurse grinned and said "I know, that is why we are doing it there" (and pointed to her bottom). I wanted to run out of there because I knew how Sophia would act, and I under-estimated her lungs. That girl can scream! Finally, they sent me to the waiting room. I was told I had at least a four hour wait, probably seven. I started questioning why I was there, then I remembered Sophia's temp was 102.4 and she HAD to be seen. Finally, after about two hours, we were called back. The PA looked at it and said she wanted the Dr. to look. He came in and said in the most casual way "we are going to have to remove it." I started sweating and thoughts were swirling. I finally asked if they had to deaden it with a shot and he said yes. I have had stitches and know how that shot feels. It hurts very bad. So, he came in with a few others and I was so dizzy and nervous they had to literally sit me down in a chair. Sophia was screaming, I was crying. They wrapped her in a sheet and the procedure began. I cried and shook. She screamed and screamed. I could not bring myself to look at her. I felt terrible I could not be right there by her. But I just don't do good with those type of things. Juan does great with it. So...she had her nail removed, put on antibiotics and is doing good. She will not keep her bandaid on so that has been our biggest battle. Mom left today and it was very hard. But I have to keep my head up for our kids. And I will. Hopefully I can start writing this everyday to unwind my thoughts and at the same time keep everyone up to date on our lives.

Ahhhhhh!

2009-05-31T18:13:00.000-07:00

So, finding time to blog is near impossible these days. Chop is gone all of the time and has been in the field since last Wednesday. And a lot has been going on...

First, Andrew tested for his orange belt and made it!! We are so very proud of him. Let me tell you how the day went...

They had it all set up very nice. Andrew was a bit nervous once he saw how official it was. So, they call Andrew and two other little boys up. The instructor asks to see their steps. When they call Andrew up and tell him to go he first looks at me and gives me a thumbs up. He wanted me to give him a thumbs up back. I guess his way of feeling secure? I don't know, but everyone thought it was the cutest thing. So, he did his steps perfectly. Then it was time to recieve his belt. They wanted the kids to run around the back of the rest of the kids and go down the line of instructors to give high fives. So, a few kids went. Then they called Andrew. He just sat there. They were like "Andrew, come on Buddy". He got up. He just stood there. So they told this seven year old boy to let Andrew follow him. Well, that boy went and picked Andrew up to carry him. Everyone laughed. He put Andrew down and ran around the back and Andrew walked so slow. It was hilarious. He got his belt, finally. Everyone was off their seats laughing. Andrew didn't see what was so funny. Anyways, Chop missed it but we texted him and told him about it..

Merci has a dinousaur play on Thursday and her talent show Friday. Please keep her in your prayers. She is VERY nervous!! Chop painted her room pink a couple of weekends ago and I finally got in there to hang up her pictures. I decided to move her bed to the center where it looks better and gives her more room. She loved it until it came time to go to bed. For some reason she was very, very scared. After about an hour and some negotiating, she got on her floor. About four a.m she ended up in Andrew's bed and I put her back in hers.

Sophia is moving like a mad woman! She can crawl up the stairs faster than I can! She is into everything. I don't have much time to sit because I am constantly chasing her. She is so darn cute! She eats cheerios now and they are her new best friend:)

Yesterday was spent cleaning house. I literally cleaned from morning to night and finally got it all done. And I am not talking about light cleaning, I mean scrubbing windows, tubs, toilets...everything! It is done, I am tired. I pulled weeds a lot of today. That got very boring so I convinced myself to let them grow a bit longer so they will be easier to pull out? I don't know, it sounded good! I have had a lot of anxiety about flying with two kids and a dog. I am very nervous about Sophia. Once we are in the air there is no turning back and she does not like to be around people or in the car. I am praying she loves airplanes. Please pray for this as well. I joked to my mom I hope there is a doctor and a priest on the plane with us. I think we may need it!!

I will be turning 24 in a matter of weeks. I feel a lot older than that. Maybe because I became a mom to Merci at 18, married at 19, gave birth to Andrew at 19, and I am done having kids at the age of 23. I like where I am at in my life right now. Things are good:)

When Merci had her field trip, we took Andrew fishing in the mountains. It was a lot of fun, but didn't catch anything. However, something ate the worm off of Andrew's pole. He was a little mad about that.

Anyways, I know this blog has random thoughts thrown around but I have a bad headache and Sophia is screaming in her jumper. Just wanted to catch everyone up on our life. It has been hectic and a lot coming up:

Thursday:Merci's dino play

Friday: Merci's talent show, Jason and Kristin get here:)!!!

June 12: Merci's last day of school

June 20: My bday, Chop's unit family day

June 21: Father's Day

June 25: Merci heads to Hawaii and us to Texas...Soooo darn excited!!!

How Great is Our God...

2009-05-16T21:55:00.001-07:00

So, it is Saturday night and I am sitting here in bed on the computer watching my beautiful princess sleep. Every so often I hear my other two laugh at a funny show they are watching together in Merci's room. I was just messing around on the computer and I came to a blog. To sum this blog up:
A baby girl was born three months early(June 08)
She weighed 1 pound, 1 ounce
She never got to come home from the hospital and she went Home to our Father a few days ago.

We have all read and heard sad stories such as this one. But this one touched my heart. I can't explain it but I felt the words and the strength of this family melt on my heart. These parents posted daily blogs, as hard as it was. And in EVERY single post they never failed to mention our Father, our Saving Grace. Nor did they once ever blame Him. Instead, they thanked Him for allowing them to meet and know this precious little girl.

I honestly with all of my heart belive that God led me to read this. I forget how blessed I am. I think we all do. I get so caught up in my every day life and I don't take time to reflect on what God has given me. I have a husband who works so hard at what he does. I am so blessed to be able to stay home with my babies. And yes, I am human...I gripe about them sometimes. I need a break sometimes...But how blessed I am to be here with them! Sophia gave us a big scare when she was born, and look at her now. Our beautiful little princess. I thought a week in the NICU was torture, and this family never even got to bring their baby home. I feel overwhelmed at times when the house work falls behind and the laundry is not done. But I have a house...that is so much more than so many people in this world. Sophia screams when she is in the car or when she is put down on the floor to play. But I have my baby at home, something this family will never have.

I know this blog is random, but that's what blogging is for, right? I feel like I want to get on my hands and knees and thank God right now for what He has given me. I strive to be a better person in every aspect of my life. I am so blessed, we all are.

Sick kids=No FUN

2009-05-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

So, remember how I reported in the last post Merci was sick? Well, Andrew caught the bug. His temp. was 104 at its highest. He felt cruddy. Unlike Merci, he had NO energy. It was wierd seeing him that way. But like Merci, his lasted a day and he was as good as new. Well, Monday night my little monkey had a fever...103.2. Having sick kids is scary in itself but having a sick baby is VERY scary. So, I ended up taking her to the dr. because she kept pulling on her ear. Luckily it was not an ear infection and I guess she just had what the other two did. She was miserable. And today she is keeping her diaper full for me, if you know what I mean and she is teething big time. She is still not at her best, but the fever is gone which is a blessing.

Mother's day was wonderful. Merci and Chop made me breakfast(Andrew is impossible to wake up) and brought it to me in bed. Then they gave me my presents. I got an elephant and monkey candle holder and another candle holder that is really nice. I love them. And I got the sweetest cards. Then we went to church. The sermon was by far the best I have heard. Wow, it was very encouraging. I always knew being a mom was one of the most rewarding jobs, and the pastor shed light on the impact a mother has on her children. What a wonderful job God has given me. I pray I can raise my kids to have values and morals they will pass on to their children. After church we packed up and went to Lake Skinner. We only stayed for about an hour because it was so hot, but it was so nice to be with my family. Sophia LOVED the water. She splashed around and soaked up the sun. We had to take her out when we found a mouth full of sand. That kid will eat ANYTHING! Merci and Andrew had a blast.

Andrew had taekwondo yesterday and got another stripe on his belt! He was so excited! Hopefully he will get to test in a few weeks for his orange belt. And the teachers told all the kids yesterday about respect. So if the kids show respect for a whole week, they get three stars on their patches. It is amazing how well Andrew has been behaving!

Merci's school sent out flyers a few weeks ago about a talent show. Only the first 25 applicants get to be in it. I hurried and got hers in and crossed my fingers she would be picked. Well, SHE WAS!!!! She will be singing the National Anthem on June 5. I will video tape it. We are so excited!! I told her in the beginning to convince her to do it that if she got picked I would make her an awesome red, white, and blue costume. She hasn't stopped talking about that now...I guess I need to figure out how to sew and get busy. Any suggestions would be GREAT!!(Nana, Silva, Mom, Debbie)

I realize everyday how blessed I really am. I have three of the most wonderful kids I could ask for. I am going to give a little preview of some funny things they are doing at this stage in life:

Merci, 8

Everything is "Totally" cool, or SOOOOO awesome. Is that Cali talk or what??

She is in to boys...big time. She asks me for advice. I guess that is an advantage for having such a young, beautiful mom...haha. I tell her she isn't allowed to date until after college so not to waste her time right now

You would not believe the drama that goes on in second grade. WOW!

Andrew, 4

Andrew puts a B in front of his words...For example

I had a great time at the Bzoo

Or remember when we went to the Bmuesem

The other day he said I am so bexcited we got a blarm so I can sleep better.

I could go on and on...

And the other day he was on the phone with nana and he asked her what she was doing. She said me and poppy are outside making a flower bed. She went on to ask him if he had a flower bed. He said oh nana, I am a boy I have a cowboy bed...

That kid is a mess, not to mention he LOVES girls. We are going to have to watch out for him...or the girls are going to have to watch out for him.

Sophia, 9 months

Sophia is spoiled. She hates to be put down. But she is the cutest little(well, big) thing ever. She is in the 90th percentile for her weight and is in 12-18 month clothes. She is well fed! And she crawls everywhere, even up the stairs. It is scary at times.

When you put on music, she will dance. It is so cute

She loves Merci and Andrew. If they leave the room, she cries.

She loves animals

Our kids are such a blessing to us. All are unique and very special. They keep us on our toes, that's for sure.

Motherhood...Ahhhh:)

2009-05-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

So, it has been a while since my last post. Three kids and a military husband keeps me very busy! Let's see what has been going on... I got a call Thursday from Merci's school telling me she had a 102.3 temp and I needed to pick her up ASAP. So I rushed down there and got her. Go figure it was at the exact time Sophia fell asleep...but what do you do?!? So I got there and could tell she didn't feel well. My mind went straight to the swine flu. I got her home and made her change and wash her hands and cover her mouth to talk. Yes, I am a bit OCD when it comes to germs. I gave her lots of juice and told her to lay down and rest. The next morning she got up and her throat was sore, she had a headace, and she was dizzy. So, I cancelled Andrew and Sophia's well check appts. and took Merci in. They swabbed her for strep and did a urine test to check for infection. Both negative. In the meantime, while we were waiting, I put Sophia on the scale. A whopping 24.3 pounds! My little chunky monkey:) The dr came in and said she thought it was just a virus and if it was swine flu it was a very mild case. By Saturday Merci was feeling a lot better. Sunday morning Chop's brother came to pick him and Andrew up to go fishing...at 7am. They left and me and the girls went to breakfast and to see Hannah Montana. Sophia was suprisingly good during the movie. Even slept the last 45 minutes. Then the guys got back and Chop said he has never seen Andrew so happy. Andrew was playing in the water and just being a boy. Chop made it a point to tell me that Andrew did not miss me a bit. But when I asked Andrew, he said of course he did:) The guys grilled for dinner and we just hung out. It was nice family time. Sophia has been pulling up on anything and everything. She is trying so hard to walk. It seems so early for that! Speaking of Sophia, she gave us the biggest scare Saturday. First, I had her in the bumbo on the kitchen floor as I was cleaning the kitchen. She was playing with the magnets on the fridge. I smelled poo so I went to change her. Layed her on the couch, changed her diaper and put on her new dress. Then I took her outside so she could see her daddy. I was kind of flipping her down, making her laugh when I saw something big in her mouth. It was a huge sticker. Not like a grass sticker but what Chop calls a hitch hiker sticker. It was huge. I pulled it out of her mouth. I had no clue she put it in there. When I think back and how I layed her down to change her, it could have gone right to her throat and when I was flipping her over... I hate to think about it, really. God was watching over her, for sure. Then later on that day I put her in the bumbo by the back door so she could watch her daddy grill while I was cleaning the kitchen...yes, I clean the kitchen a hundred times a day. And I think God just gives us intuitions because I had a huge urge to look over the counter and check on her. That silly girl and gotten out of her bumbo and was trying to pull up on the kitchen chair. And again, God was watching over her. She could have easily crawled outside. She keeps us on our toes.
It has been a good past few days. We are thinking about going to Disney Land this weekend...I'll keep you posted:)

Andrew is FOUR!

2009-04-27T20:46:00.000-07:00

Andrew turned four today. When he woke up and I started to sing him happy bday he told me to stop "that I had already sang him that yesterday". It was cute. My friend and I took him to Island Burger for lunch. He had such a good time. Then he went to karate where he earned a black stripe on his belt! Go Andrew:) He was super excited. Then I made dinner, with his special request of Macaroni and cheese. He had a good day. He did not want to go to bed at all, but he finally fell asleep.

Just wanted to look back four years ago and recall how this day went:
I had already been on bedrest for over a week because Mr. Andrew tried to come into this world at only 34 weeks. My labor was stopped because it was way too early. So, April 27th, 2005 I started the day watching tv on the couch. My dr. told me I can get up to go to the bathroom and that was about it. That was pretty easy to follow! Anyways, Chop came home from school around 230ish and I told him I wasn't feeling well. I had tons of pressure in my belly. So, I called the dr and she said to come in. So about 330ish Chop took me in to the dr. She told me I didn't look like I felt well and she checked me. She said my water was about to break and she was going to send me over to the hospital(it was right next door) She had guessed my water would break on the way over, it didn't. Anyways, I called my mom and headed over. We registered and got in my room. I watched my epidural movie, signed the papers declaring I wanted the drugs!! My brother and sister-in-law came to visit. The dr eventually broke my water around 830ish. She told me it would be the next day before I had him. So we watched American Idol, the contractions got really intense. Next thing I know, the nurse is telling me to push and calling for the dr. I kept telling them to wait because I hadn't had my epidural yet. They informed me there was no turning back and I had to push. So, I did. And at 11:25 pm my precious baby boy came into this world. He was absolutely perfect. And when I say perfect, I mean perfect. He was wide awake and stared at his daddy for several minutes. After a couple of days in the hospital, they let us go home. And now four years later he still melts my heart just like the day he was born.
There is such a special bond between a mother and son. Andrew is my angel and I love him more than I could ever put into words.

Just wanted to share that memory. Here is to another wonderful year with my beautiful family:)

Tell Me It Isn't So...

2009-04-25T22:14:00.000-07:00

Well, we celebrated Andrew's fourth bday today. However, he will not be four until April 27th at 11:25 pm. He will be three until the clock turns! It was a good, non-stressful day. It could have been a bit warmer, but it didn't rain and was sunny, so I can't complain. The spider man jumper was a success. It got here about 9am and the kids jumped themselves out before the party started at 1. Andrew got a lot of really cool things. He got a Nintendo DS (Merci got one, too), batman, action figure things and a soccer goal. He got some clothes but he wasn't too into that. Overall, it was a great day. I can't believe that he is turning four. It seems like yesterday I was giving him a bottle. You never can really appreciate time until you just want it to slow down, if only for a moment. Merci was almost three when I met Chop and she is already eight and Sophia will be nine months old this week. It is just amazing, really.
I will post pictures soon of Andrew's party. We are taking Chop's dad to the airport tomorrow, then back to the routine on Monday...Goodnight:)

Happy Early Bday to Andrew...

2009-04-15T20:58:00.001-07:00

Today was a cold, windy day. But that didn't stop us from getting in the yard. My dad and I have been working really hard on the front. We left this morning to go to Lowe's and when we got back my neighbor had mowed the front for me. How nice! We have a tiny front yard, but the kindness was great! He knows that Chop is gone a lot and him and his wife have been great neighbors. Too bad they are moving in a few weeks...
Anyways, since my dad won't be here for Andrew's actual bday party, we took him to Chuck E Chesse tonight. Him and Merci had a blast. My dad goes all out and bought 175 tokens, so my purse is heavy with leftovers. But they had a good time. Sophia loved hanging out with dad until she saw Chuck E and flipped out. My dad leaves early Friday morning, so I am hoping tomorrow goes by super slow. I love it when he is here. No matter how old you get, the comfort of having your mom or dad around brings such a sense of security. I love my parents! They are both so very wonderful and supportive of me. I am glad they fly out to see me. (Although some may argue they are actually coming out to see the grandkids, but it still counts in my book!)

Another day...

2009-04-14T20:47:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday was very productive! We all got in the yard and pulled weeds. My dad sprayed the yard and fertilized. Our backyard is nothing but dead grass and weeds, so he had his work cut out for him. But for some odd reason he loves this stuff. Today we got a rose bush and red mulch and the front yard is looking good! Finally! The previous owners either neglected the yard all together or it was vacant for a while, because it was in BAD shape. And our Home Owners Association had some nerve sending me a letter right when we moved in giving us 14 days to have our front yard looking "green". And Chop was in North Carolina, so I was like, okay, I guess time for new grass...and new grass we got! Anyways, enough about yard work...
My dad goes home Friday which I am not looking forward to. He is such great company and is a neat freak, so when he is here my house stays spotless. My dearest hubby gets home Sunday and that is so exciting:) And his dad gets here Wednesday for Andrew's bday party, so we are really looking forward to that. Andrew's newest saying is that he is such a jerk. I have no clue where this kid gets these things. It is hard not to laugh, but don't want to encourage it. Sophia is getting around so well. She just takes off crawling. And as soon as she finds something to pull up on, she does. Bad thing is that she hasn't figured out that if she lets go, she will fall. I am thinking after a few tumbles, she will learn! We are in the process of putting up the baby gate. I didn't have stairs when Andrew was a baby, so this whole tumbling down the stairs is new to me. I know that is totally dangerous, so the gate is a must. Sophia is so quick! Merci is dreading going back to school next week. She loves being home, lounging around. California schools are so much different from Texas. They get almost a month for Christmas and two weeks for Spring Break. But they go until June 13ish and start the second week in August. So I guess it balances out. I don't know, just seems like they get a lot of time off. And they are always getting half-days. Not sure, but Merci loves it. I tell her to enjoy school because she has much more to go! If I would have liked school, it would have been so much easier. She will learn:)
Anyways, overall the last couple of days have been good. Just wishing the time would slow down so I can have more time with my dad and speed up so I can see my hubby. Just can't have it all, can I?? Looking forward to the next couple of months and coming to Texas to visit:) Miss and love everyone of you!

Last thing...In my first post I put that Chop deploys September 13. It is actually September 19th...

A Wonderful Day!!

2009-04-12T20:11:00.000-07:00

Today was great! First, we celebrated an amazing day. How blessed we are to have a wonderful Lord to serve.
The kids dyed their eggs and had a great time. It was hard for me to not have Chop here to share these times, but I know he was thinking about us, and us about him. We all went to lunch at Roadhouse. The food was good, but I am so spoiled to going to Nana and Pop's house for Easter! My heart ached inside for all of my Texas family but I am so glad I had my dad and brother-in-law here.
Okay, now for the super exciting news...you all ready for it???????????
1. Sophia pulled up!!! She crawled to the otoman, got on her knees and pulled up! Talk about a proud mama:)
2. Sophia drank from her sippy cup!!!! Some may say oh big deal...but as most of you know Sophia is a nursing only, bottle-refusing child. So, this is a HUGE deal. It was Gatorade, but who cares! She drank from a sippy! The future for weaning her is looking bright:)
3. My absolute favorite....... Sophia said Mama!!!! Plain and clear at the table! She usually says dadadadada all day long, but she put that word aside for a second to say mama!!

See, told you it was a Great day!

A day in the life of an almost four year old...oh boy

2009-04-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, so how does an almost four year old little boy deal with his daddy being gone??? He saves his poop in the toilet to show his him. I swear in the last week at least one toilet in the house(we have three) has had unflushed pooey in it at any given time.And Andrew claims this is because he wants his daddy to be proud. I mean, when Andrew was two and potty training, it was rewarding for him to save this special surprise for daddy. But he will be four in a matter of weeks...oh goodness. It is so funny but at the same time gross! I can't wait until he is 16 and I remind him of this story...
Today was good. My dad got here around 9am. I think I finally got into a deep sleep around six this morning and the alarm goes off at 6:30, so I am a bit tired. There was tons of traffic on the way to San Diego, I guess because it is Easter weekend. The kids are excited about tomorrow. Their Uncle Lucas is coming over for lunch and watching them find their eggs. Sophia crawled all over the house today...so cute. I am so glad my dad got to see her crawl. And she is actually not scared of him, which is a relief. That means I get a break from holding her! Yay:)
Hope everyone has a wonderful Easter. God is so amazing!

I jumped on the blogwagon...

2009-04-10T20:56:00.000-07:00

So, I caved. I joined the world of blogging. I figured this is a great way for our families to keep up with us, if they choose to do so. Chop will be getting home on April 19th and he told me yesterday he does not leave again until June 29th!!! That is a HUGE deal to us...we spend most of our time apart, so to have him home for more than a month is a blessing. He will start his at sea trainings in June and deploys September 13th. Not looking forward to that...
Merci has her Hawaii trip with her grandparents set for June 25th. She is so excited:) I found her an awesome little sundress that she thinks she will wear everyday there. She is doing excellent in school. She is at 3rd grade level in everything except math, but where she needs to be for math. She has met some great friends, some interesting ones as well. These Californians...ha
Andrew will be four on April 27th...where in the world did these past few years go?!? He keeps us laughing...he always has something funny to say.Even when he is in trouble, that is how he tries to escape, by being funny. The other day he asked me to teach him to read, so I have been working on that. He is learning his phonics pretty good.
Sophia is still spoiled rotten. My arms are sore from carrying her around all day. Most people say to put her down and let her cry it out. I will buy you a plane ticket to show you how this goes...I would rather have sore arms than to go deaf...seriously. She is crawling, well if that is what you call it. She gets on her hands and feet, with her bottom in the air. It is entertaining, but hey, she gets to where she needs to go. Which means the baby gate at the top of the stairs goes up this week.
And as for me, I am doing good. Life can be so hectic and it is easy to loose myself in all of the chaos. But at the end of the day I have time to sit back and realize what a wonderful life I have. My husband and kids mean the world to me and the support I have from my family is amazing. My relationship with God grows more and more everyday. He has taught me so much in the past couple of years. He has been my Light and helped me see my way through obstacles. I have realized in the past couple of months that I am a lot stronger than I ever gave myself credit for. I am a firm beliver in "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" He is an Amazing God...