Family means everything.......forever!

Floods, Thanksgiving, Black Friday & My view of being a stay at home mother.

2011-11-29T00:14:00.001-08:00

I thought I'd better jot a few thoughts down before the end of the year passes me by. Our upstairs bathroom flooded the Tuesday eve before Thanksgiving. The water went through the flooring (under the tile) in the upstairs bathroom, soaked through the ceiling of the downstairs hallway and downstairs bathroom pouring it's way out of the light fixtures & drywall seams. What a mess. But it really wasn't so stressful after all. Our insurance company sent out a demo drew to tear up what needed to be removed and set up fans and dehumidifiers to dry up the place. Although, the fans were extremely loud and difficult to sleep through for 4 days, we made it through.

Thanksgiving came and went. Kirk cooked everything and that in and of itself made me happy!! Dinner was great. Ricky stopped by after work at 10:30 am and spent the day with us-I so love that he lives nearby & having him spend time with us. Todd & Kristi, a few of their children stopped by for an hour or so-nice to catch up with them.

Kirk & I went shopping on Black Friday. The only stores we shopped at were Sam's club (we found many great buys) & Kmart (since they are an extension of Sears we wanted to show our support for our Military families). We had a great time together from 4:30am-11:30 pm. It was both of our first times shopping the Friday after Christmas. Neither one of us had ever done so prior to our marriage. So, we thought we would give it a try and we actually had some fun! we were able to pick out some furnishings that will need to be replaced from the water damage.

A few words about being a stay at home mother. Well, maybe more than a few. I love being a stay at home mom, nothing could ever compare in importance with that. I have worked all of my life & know the difference between working & being home. Gosh, I know how nice it is to come home and have your mom there waiting with a smile and open arms! I've paid a dear price for all those years of working out of the home. I missed out on lots =( I've also witnessed firsthand how it's affected my two eldest children's lives. Those times being away from my family & the painful trials that transpired because I wasn't home, can never be undone. I worked out of necessity especially when I was a single mom for nearly 6 years!. I know for a certainty I was a much more efficient, organized mother & made the most of every moment I had with my children when I worked. It wasn't a matter of choice but rather a HUGE sacrifice at a price.
Working as a nurse was very satisfying-serving others is what brings me joy. I'm probably one of the few who worked at a surgery center who was allowed to have fun, was treated well & looked fwd to going to work each morning. I was not working to buy a better car, have all the latest gadgets, jewelry or have the best wardrobe. I worked many tireless nights & weekends to provide the basic necessities for my family & I felt VERY blessed to have a better than minimum wage earning job.
I am so very grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ because I more fully understand my calling as a mother & wife. IF I ever do make the decision to go back to work it will be after much consideration & prayer & most importantly God's will with my husband's support.....when the timing's right. Until then, please don't judge nor ask me when I am going back to work. I have a degree & choose to stay home. It's where God wants me, where I want to be and where I am!!! There's nothing, NOTHING wrong with being a stay at home mom. It's a full time job x 4 (or however many children you have).
I've earned my right to be a stay at home mom after working all my life!! I've prayed and fasted about my decision to put my career on hold to have my daughter and raise my sons. I've prayed with my husband about it. We both knew it was right for our family. It was not a decision taken lightly. To put my career on hold especially entering a second marriage that increased our family size from four (myself and three boys) to 9 was no light decision.
I am gonna continue to soak up all that I can while I'm here. Motherhood has so much to offer & I'm going to keep on making it to baseball games, scouts, ballet, dance, birthday parties, play dates, park days, driving & picking them up from school, attending their parent teacher conferences, volunteering in their classrooms, help them with homework, teaching the value of respect, hard work, spiritually nuture, encourage, inspire, cheer, lead, cry, laugh, unconditionally love & give them wings to fly as only a mother can do.

Lastly, mother to mother, if my kids aren't doing what you think they should be doing compared to what your kids are doing, or if they fail at something, that's quite alright. I'd rather have them learn from their mistakes now then not learn from them until they are 40+ years old in life. I'm not in competition with any other mother nor are my kids. Judge on sistah!!

None of us are perfect and perhaps I am writing this message for my own benefit. What I do know and believe is everyone's fighting a personal battle. God loves each one of us imperfect beings perfectly & completely. If that were not so, he would not have sent his Son, Jesus Christ to atone for our sins. Our trials, experiences and imperfections are what make us who we are and who we've become. I believe in expressing gratitude by embracing all that God has blessed me with & most of all to "Be Present" in the lives of my family members! In the words of Elder Wirthlin, "Come what may & love it!" and I'm loving it-trails & all!!!

Aubrey's 6th Birthday Party

2011-11-20T00:27:00.001-08:00

Aubrey's birthday was quite an event. I started preparations a week in advance & it seemed to pay off. Although, it was a busy week filled with minimum school days, baseball games, Kirk away on business, I seemed to find enjoyment, relaxation & some stress putting on a nice princess birthday party for Aubrey. She was surrounded by friends & family on this special day & had a blast. I hope you enjoyed your day. We love you Aubrey Laureen!!

XL marshmellows coated with a pink tinted white chocolate. (Yes, I made all the treats & decorations).

These are Ghirardelli's dark chocolate covered Oreo's.

The table before all the fixings were out.

A little vinyl on her balloons

Tissue puffs & balloons dropping from the ceiling.

Home made place cards for everyone (I love my Cricut)!

Beautiful Princesses!!

Beautiful, cousin Addy!

Beautiful, Cousin Ryland (Addy's big Sister).

Beautiful, Cousin Ella

Beautiful sisters, Paisley & Taylor

Beautiful friend, Morgan.

Beautiful Cousin, Addy.

Beautiful Hawaiian Princess, Aubrey.

Cousin Ella all spun out and ready to paste her tiara

Pass the Poison Apple (like hot potato). This game was a huge hit with the girls.

Ryland pushing the stop button for the Poison Apple game.

Ella is on top of her game!

So fun!

Ella scored!

Well, Hello Kitty.

Little Mermaid punch

Make A Wish.....

Aubrey & niece, Kaidence!

Grand daughter, Kaidence loves Elmo!!

Aubrey also lost her very first tooth this week. It's been a great & exciting week!

Grandsons, Kage & Devin

2011-11-20T00:24:00.001-08:00

Handsome Kage. It's been a while since we've seen our grandsons, Kage & Devin. We were blessed to see them at Garrett's baseball pizza party.

Devin chowing down on his pizza!

Kage entertaining us with his eyeball crossing.

He enjoyed the responses he was getting from us.

Baseball & Baby Blessings

2011-11-19T23:58:00.001-08:00

Garrett's baseball team (The Oakland A's) made it to the playoffs. They had games everyday this week except for Friday. Their team beat the undefeated team (New York Yankees) twice this week for the win 10-9, a very good game! The children had minimum day release all week @ 12:20 so, it felt like I barely had time to get much accomplished before it was time to pick them up again. Irregardless, it was a great week!

I think Garrett has found a sport that he really enjoys! Now it's off to the Storm Monday & Tuesday for baseball camp with the pros!

My niece, Crystal Bangerter invited us to Maverick's baby blessing this month. Here are some snapshots of the day

Aubrey with Cousins, Ella & Addy.

Joseph lovin on his baby cuz, Mav.

Brooklyn you're a love!

& Brooklyn's identical twin sister, Scarlet is a love!

Love Addy!

Auntie is maddy about Addy!!

Joseph is sure a handsome lil guy (Manda's youngest son)!

Talia holding her baby cousin, Mav!

It was great getting together with the Henderson boys' family members, love them bunches!! It was also a treat to attend the first church building I attended just after joining the church. I was able to say hello to dear friends I hadn't seen in over 7 years! Thank you for inviting us to be part of your special day, Crystal & Mark.

2011-11-16T14:50:00.001-08:00

Making decorations for Aubrey's 6th birthday party this weekend!

2011-11-15T21:40:00.001-08:00

Someone lost her first tooth tonight!!
It was sent from my cell
at least we have the memory!!

2011-11-15T21:39:00.001-08:00

Here it is tooth fairy

2011-11-15T21:36:00.001-08:00

Plus this = yum!!

2011-11-15T21:35:00.001-08:00

This. ..

Aubrey OCT 2011

2011-11-10T09:23:00.001-08:00

15 pictures
Click here to view these pictures larger

Photos

2011-10-23T03:04:00.000-07:00

This is just a sneek peek of the type of pictures Terina took of Aubrey. I can't wait to see how they all turned out. As soon as I receive them, I'll post them!

Saturday, was a warm & beautiful day. We started off our morning by watching Garrett have fun at his baseball game. We then took a pleasant drive down to San Marcos to Mama Katz (owned by family friend) for a scrumptious lunch. Garrett ordered chicken strips, fries and a chocolate shake (he was in heaven), Aubrey ordered pancakes, bacon and chocolate milk & I ordered a yummy chicken salad & water. We stopped at Fryes Electronics because I wanted to show the kids what a fun place it is-I really enjoy how they bring the ocean indoors with all the huge fish aquariums and decor...not to mention they have just about everything there! I will have to send a couple of pics from my cell here. After our trip to San Marcos, we headed home for Aubrey's pictures at the park. The setting and time of day being in the early eve @ 5pm couldn't have been more perfect with the sun just about ready to set as it's golden, amber rays of sun came shining down at the park.
I decided to take a few pics of Ricky & Garrett while waiting for Aubrey to finish up. For whatever reason, Garrett doesn't want to have his pictures taken lately which really bums me out! Ricky on the other hand, was a good sport despite not wanting to have his picture taken until he was feeling more rested. The poor kid worked from 2am-10am, then headed over to Temecula for some peaceful protesting. After Aubrey's photo shoot, we said good-bye to Ricky then headed home to get ready for our Ward Halloween Party/Trunk or Treat. I had to quickly frost the 48 cupcakes I baked the night prior. They turned out really cute and of course I forgot to take any pics )= the trunk or treat night was a great ward party with a nice turn out. Everyone seemed to be having a fun time.

October 2011 it's Fall, my favorite season of the year!

2011-10-21T01:54:00.000-07:00

September 2011 highlights

2011-10-21T01:03:00.000-07:00

In September, Aubrey was presented with an award from her Principal, Mr. Marble.

She was very excited & we are so very proud of her for toughing out 1st grade at the tender age of 5!

Pictured with her 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Wininger.

Aubrey was insistent about going to Cole Canyon with her brother Garrett. She did not want to start Kindergarten again (which was an option) since she had already completed @ River Springs. I've had a few reservations about pushing her so quickly but she is learning quickly and growing by leaps & bounds. Any day now, she's expecting to lose her first tooth. She is such a blessing to our family. We are so very proud of you, Aubrey!

Cousin Cymoni had grown out of a couple of formal dresses she wore when she was the flower girl in two weddings. Amy wanted a couple pictures taken so she could post them on the internet to try to sell them. She enjoys dressing up, twirling and having her picture taken.

Garrett signed up for Baseball in a Pony League this September. We learned it's also called "Fall Ball" which helps prepare them for baseball when it starts in the Spring.

A little coaching in the Dug Out

We also had a new addition to the family for a couple of months, my niece, Priscilla. She was easy to care for and so much fun to have around. She turned 2 while with us and had a great time singing happy birthday & opening presents.

Having fun watching cousin, Garrett play ball.

Priscilla loves bath time.

Mmm, delicious carrot cake!

Time to open presents!

She had a quick bath in between birthday cake and presents which was offered by Cousin Cymoni & thoroughly appreciated!!

BUBBLES!!!

Cilly loves her cousin, Aubrey!

A new telephone to call mommy.

Puzzles!

A new sippy cup.

A little movie....

We also celebrated Amy's 36th birthday!!!

I love how Priscilla & Amy were both wearing the same color, unplanned. Priscilla turned 2 on the 19th; Amy turned 36 on the 23rd.

Our next celebration was on September 26th. It was my mother's 62nd birthday. She rarely comes to see us. We enjoyed having her visit with us for a week.

July 2011 Highlights

2011-10-20T22:59:00.000-07:00

This is a snapshot taken while driving to the beach to meet my family. It was on our way just a few minutes from the ocean. This picture was taken in my hometown where I grew up. I've always thought this building was beautiful especially for a high school. I learned from my father, my great grandparents, Orpha & William Simmons, owned the land on which it was later built. I attended El Segundo High School during my teens-back in the day. Fond memories stir my mind when driving through my hometown.

The kids were so excited to see their cousins. They could hardly contain themselves! The thought of playing on the beach before the sun set and splashing in the water just couldn't wait. It was an unusually cool Summer this year & the water temperature wasn't very welcoming either. Aubrey, Garrett & cousin, Cody having fun just before the sun set.

Aubrey

Summer fun!

Cousin, Melanie & beau, Alex enjoying a California Sunset

Dad & Aubrey enjoying S'mores around the evening bonfire.

Ahhhh, toasty, warmth!

Cousin, Melanie & Alex came all the way from Wyoming to have a California vacation. (=

My brother, William clowning around. I shouldn't have dared him to do a handstand! My sister-in-law, Allison waiting for gravity to take effect.

Emily & Breana

Melissa & Chelsey

Washed out, tired, family fun, kinda night picture-which I think turned out pretty darn good for a self portrait!

Stevie, no ordinary kitten. He's a special little cat. He's called a Main Coon
Uncle Kirk really likes this kitty so much he's considered getting one...someday.

A little excursion to Beverly Hills & Hollywood was on our to do list for Saturday. First stop, Rodeo Drive ...gotta catch the trolley for our tour of the Hollywood Stars' homes.

Tired dolly on the Trolley

(SIGH) We only got to do a drive by. There was no stopping the trolley!!

Famous Morton Bay fig tree is nearly 100 years old!

=^o^=

Cody & Allison

Maybe one day....

Movie time!

A walk with the Stars (Star Wars producer)

(Aubrey & Garrett's piggy toes)

"Staying Alive"

I'm not a very huge Harry Potter fan but Garrett loves the movies & Chris reads the books.

Grauman's Chinese Theater

Fred Astaire

A famous Broadway Dancer back in the day!

I don't know if ALL gentlemen prefer blondes but I do know from experience when I dyed my hair blonde, they do get more attention & have more fun (=

Marilyn Monroe was truly a beautiful lady. Oh, let's not forget about Jane Russell a true brunette, beauty!!

I grew up watching Dean Martin on television. I always thought he was handsome.

Dad reading about Marylin Monroe's contribution to the Grauman's Theatre - a wishing well/fountain.

Jack Nicholson starred in this old movie-crazy!!

After our attempt to stop at the Griffith Park Observatory and no where to park...everyone headed home. A short stop was in order prior to driving back to Uncle William's home. The newly remodeled Visitor's Center in Santa Monica at the Los Angeles Temple brought many oooohs & ahhhhs (I didn't take many pics while inside) Hey, my piggies got in the pic.

I love this painting by Carl Bloch

Simply. Beautiful.

July 4, 2011

"Just Dance" on Wii

Samantha AKA "Sammy Samuri"

Christopher & man's best friend

That's my toy!

Let's dance, Chris!!

We love Sammy!!

A little contraction

So happy we made it to see her!!

It was 3 am and still no baby!
But we were laughing, having fun & feeling the love.

July 29th 3am and no baby so we went home. Jasmine was born just after 8am healthy as could be!

July brought lots of fun for our family. A day filled with fun on the 4th of July with Amy, Jonah & Cymoni, fun around the house with Sammy & we especially had a great time with my Brother & his family as well as Melanie & her boyfriend Alex, who traveled from Wyoming to spend time with us. AND last but not least, at the very end of the month we welcomed Jasmine Neilani. Congrats Johanna & Robert, she's beautiful!!

These pics only capture some of our memories but they will be forever etched in our minds.

FAMILIES R FOREVER!

2011-08-19T01:26:00.001-07:00

Ever feel like you've arrived at the age where you finally have accepted you've entered the aging process? Yes, I'm starting to feel like my body is requesting I make some changes. I had my first upper GI study & it wasn't too bad. I didn't like all the weird stuff they make you drink as they are scanning images of the dye going through your upper GI tract. In March of this year I had some difficulty swallowing and the Dr I was seeing at the time didn't think it was anything to worry about. I've also been experiencing some really bad neck and lower back pain. My lower back pain is going on 5 yrs, my neck pain has been with me for almost three months. I had some xrays done last week. I got the results of my neck-structurally all is well. I guess I'm having spasms of the muscle where its painful. I received an order for physical therapy. Still waiting on my lower back results...I've been experiencing pain and some numbness of three of my toes in my right foot and my right heel.

2011-08-16T23:44:00.001-07:00

Murrieta Creek block party last weekend

2011-08-11T09:00:00.001-07:00

Aubrey & Garrett started school Thursday, August 11th.

Garrett managed to dodge pictures this morning by riding scooters with

his friend, Connor. Aubrey is super excited to be in the 1st grade at the same school as

Garrett.

First Grade

2011-08-11T08:59:00.001-07:00

Aubrey saying, "Bye, Mom. See ya later."

I had to make certain I waited until she walked into her classroom before I was ready to say goodbye! Bittersweet and tender feelings as my last child is

starting 1st grade..yet, I am excited!! I will have several hours to myself

to get caught up on things I've been putting off. It's hard to believe I've been parenting for 26 years now. That is how old Ricky is. It's been and still is a great joy to be a mother. I wouldn't trade it for the highest paying career in the world! Nothing can replace a mother's presence in the home, nothing!

I've worked many years of my life while my children were little and I can testify that being at home with my children when they've come home from school, being there to see them off on their first days of school, when they have been promoted, received an award, graduated, when they needed a listening ear, or to take them shopping or just helping with homework, I'll be forever grateful that I was there for them!! I hope my children will remember one day that Mom was there when they needed me (=

Inside Out, Chicken Pot Pie

2011-08-11T00:17:00.000-07:00

Here is a recipe that my family really enjoys called "Inside Out Chicken Pot Pie." I found it last year on the Frosted Cupcake blog. Our most discriminating palates in the family (our two youngest) really like it as well thus, I thought it blog worthy.
I usually double the recipe which feeds 6 of us with left overs to spare. I've altered the recipe to my liking as follows:

Inside Out Chicken Pot Pie

1/3 C unsalted butter
3/4 C chopped celery
1/3 C flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp of celery seed
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 C dehydrated onions
a few dashes of Cayenne Pepper
1 Can Swanson's Chicken broth
2/3 C milk
1 can of sliced mushrooms
1 C frozen peas
one large can of Chicken breast meat (from Sam's Club or Costco, it's part of our food storage)
Roasted Chicken from Costco or Sam's Club (where it calls for cubed chicken breast).
1 pkg. Grands Flaky Layers Biscuits

Directions: Bake biscuits according to package directions. Meanwhile, in very large pan, melt butter. Add celery and carrots, saute for 2-3 minutes. Add flour and whisk until golden and bubbly for 1-3 minutes. Whisk in broth, milk and spices. Bring to a gentle boil. Add chicken, mushrooms and frozen peas. Simmer on low heat for at least 5 minutes or until heated through. Correct the consistency with more chicken broth and flour if needed (I didn't need to). To serve, split the biscuits in half which come apart in layers, then generously spoon the filling over the biscuits and serve. Again, as I mentioned earlier, I double the recipe and purchase three containers of biscuits to feed my family of six which also is enough for left overs. It's a very good tasting recipe that doesn't take long to put together. It has a very nice consistency and home cooked, buttery flavor. I'd like to use this filling in a calzone in the future to see how it works. I hope your family enjoys this recipe as much as ours. Thank you Frosted Cupcake and Bon Appetite!

5 ingredient Peanut butter, chocolate chip cookies, YUM!!!

2011-07-27T23:42:00.001-07:00

We made these yummy little babies tonight. They were a big hit. Look ma no flour!

(recipe found at The girl who ate everything's blog)

5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 cup creamy peanut butter

1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp baking soda
½ cup milk chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix all ingredients except chocolate chips. When blended, mix in the chocolate chips. Using your fingers, form 1 1/2 inch balls (dough will be very wet and sticky) and place onto an un-greased parchment lined cookie sheet. You don't want to make them too big because they do spread. Bake for 9 minutes. Let the cookies sit on the cookies sheet for about 30 seconds to 1 minute before letting cool on a wire rack. Makes around a dozen small cookies.

Cymoni's new Do

2011-07-16T17:06:00.001-07:00

In our previous post, there are pictures of Cymoni with her long, gorgeous locks. Yesterday, she went with Kathy & her mom to get a new haircut and donated her 10+ inches to Pantene (who has a similar program like locks of love). I love it!!!

That's what I'm talking about Mmmm Mmmm

2011-07-14T21:33:00.001-07:00

My Niece Manda has some fruit trees in her backyard. Her peach tree was loaded with these delicious beauties. I cut them up immediately after arriving home, yep, I left the skin on, I need all the vitamins I can get. I added some granulated fructose (about 2 TBS) stir, refrigerate and use for a topping on salad, cheesecake, ice cream or angel food cake, the possibilities are endless.

June & July 2011 Memories

2011-07-14T03:56:00.000-07:00

Great friend & former co-worker Kathleen & I

Kathleen & Garrett

Kathleen & Chris

We had a mini nurse reunion which consisted of Kathleen, Krys De & I. It was great chit chatting, catching up & seeing one another again after 8-9years. Yes, we still haven't lost our silliness. Krys De & I posing with our dessert! We met at BJ's in Temecula for lunch in late June. I love getting together with great friends. It's the best (=

Love these two!

Kathleen & Krys De

Trying to be normal

Kathleen had a few pictures on her camera she took while she was here in March. Kirk helps her with her taxes and in return she watches the kids for us so we can have a date night.

I didn't notice the significance of this picture until Kathleen pointed it out. Kirk made some yummy spaghetti for dinner before we left on our date night. While we were out, the kids & Kathleen had dinner. Aubrey was prepared to say the prayer.. but as you can see......boys will be boys!

Just before this frame, Princess was sunbathing. The position she was lying in was hilarious-on her back with all fours up in the air for several minutes. I wasn't quick enough in locating my camera and missed the snapshot of the moment. This was taken right after she rolled over and was wondering what we were all staring at.

One of my cousins, John Simmons, played with many popular entertainers when he was living. To name one that comes to mind was The Righteous Brothers. Some of the guys he played with in various other bands were getting together for the 4th of July weekend at Elsinore High School. My cousin Jane (John's sister) actually told me about the shindig and encouraged me to attend.

Bruce Benson

They were quite a talented bunch.

Not pictured in this group of pictures but pictured on my Facebook account, is Lee Ferrell (Will Ferrell's dad) a very talented musician as well. Yep, were getting old but then again, who isn't!?!?!?!??

My husband found a really cool abandoned bird's nest

A picture of an orchid blossom that has been in bloom since February. This is one of two blossoms left on the plant.

Outside celebrating the 4th of July

"Man Cub" Garrett (9) & Aubrey (5)

Garrett & Aubrey pictured with Cymoni

Aubrey & Garrett pictured with Jonah & Cymoni

They were so done posing for us yet, good sports!

Had to get the mom's in the pictures, too!

Amy!

How many of us can touch our nose with our tongues? Not me!

The Rapunzel wig came out.

Thanks for sharing Aubrey (=

The 4th of July weekend ended by playing Apples to Apples, Jr., "Just Dance on the Wii" (that's what the kids are doing in these last photos) and Angel Food Cake topped with strawberries, blue berries & whipped cream for dessert. This year was a great year that seemed to be a non stop weekend of fireworks displays. We saw fireworks from the Murrieta Birthday bash & we viewed the Pechanga Fireworks from atop the hill at the Temecula Public Library parking lot. We could even see large flashes of fireworks coming from the Lake Elsinore Storm game. We ate yummy food, spent time with friends and family and remembered the freedoms we enjoy and love that we have for America!

2011-07-13T21:08:00.001-07:00

How long ago did Mexico change the look of their pesos? Well, silly me as I look at this picture I can see the dates on the coins. Last time I went to Mexico the coins were silver (1990's). Hubby brought these home from work today...yes, he was in Tijuana, Mexico. Just glad he made it home safely. Ai ai ai!

It's whats for dinner tonight

2011-07-13T19:27:00.001-07:00

Chili mmm, mmm chili!
Chili in the Summer time is a rarity for me.
I usually make chili during the colder months of the year. The weather has truly been wonderful, "California Dreaming" kinda wonderful in mid July, go figure! Truly, I'm complaining, I am soaking it up! I have two picky palates ages 5 & 9 in my home. So, usually I go for the tried & tested recipes I know will get eaten without all of the complaints & rude comments when introducing a new, slaved over and what I think will be delicious kinda, recipe. I'm sure I'm not the only mom who hears, "Ewe, gross, I ain't eating this!" So, to save my ego the pain from all the insults, I cook their usual. BUT lately I've been trying old recipes I haven't used for the past year & I am amazed they are liking them. So, yeah it's blog worthy............in my eyes anyway. Really, isn't all that really matters? It is to me because these entries are not going to be wasted on getting lost in cyberspace. Hopefully, these blog/journal entries will adorn the bookshelves of my children someday. Just typing that made me feel good. Okay, enough of my day dreaming, onto the recipe (by the way, I'm really digging the updates Google has done for us bloggers-nice job Google!!)

Chili

Ingredients

1 chopped onion
1 chopped green bell pepper
3 cloves minced garlic
1 (14 oz) can of diced Fire Roasted Tomatoes
1 (14 oz) can of Rotel's diced tomatoes
2 (14 oz) cans of S & W Premium Pinto beans (the can says pinto beans, chili peppers, onion & Garlic in a Zesty Tomato Sauce)
1 (14 oz) can of S & W Premium Pinto Beans (rinse & drain)
2 (14 oz) cans of S & W Premium Kidney Beans (rinse & drain)
1 (7 oz) can of diced Ortega Fire Roasted Chili's
1 (1 and 1/4 oz ) package of McCormick mild chili seasoning
1 lb of ground sirloin or 10-15 % extra lean ground beef
3-4 tsp of garlic salt- to your liking
1 tsp of black pepper
1 tsp cumin
2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp celery seed

Directions

Brown ground beef with onion, bell pepper, minced garlic and spices (EXCEPT the seasoning packet, this is reserved for the end) in the large pot you will be putting the ingredients in. I didn't drain my meat because there was very little or no oil to drain. Cook until done.
Add all canned ingredients and stir.
Add 2 cups of water then add the McCormick's mild chili seasoning.
Allow to simmer for 30-40 minutes.

Add your favorite toppings. (green onions, white onion, sour cream, corn chips, avocado etc). My husband and children used crushed saltines and some grated Tillamook extra sharp cheddar cheese. Serve with your favorite bread (corn, buttermilk, sourdough etc).

No one has to know you didn't slave over a hot stove for hours making chili. Once the left overs have cooled down I put the remainder in a freezer zip lock baggy and place in freezer for another meal/side dish.

Happy Trails!!

2011-07-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

At the end of June I had a friend of mine (Terina Matthews Photography) take some pictures of the kids. Here are 3 of my favorites. We also gave these pictures to Kirk framed, 3 Nerf water guns (one for him & each of the kids), a DVD called "True Grit" & made Kirk his favorite Hawaiian Dinner for Father's Day. Unfortunately, I did not capture any pictures that day )=

3rd Grade memories

2011-07-08T08:16:00.000-07:00

Garrett had a great year! He loves Mrs. Schroeder and is looking forward to starting 4th grade.

Kindergarten Graduate

2011-07-08T08:04:00.000-07:00

Saying her part in the ceremony

Singing

A few classmates

We love Mrs. Christine!!

Aubrey and fellow classmates enjoyed a day of Luau festivities

Aloha!

Aubrey & Evelynne have been friends since the age of two.

They met at church (=

These last three pictures were taken on Aubrey's first day of Kindergarten. Can you tell she was so excited to finally be able to go to school?!?!?!! What a great year it's been for her at River Springs Montessori.

A photography excursion

2011-07-08T07:40:00.000-07:00

Yep, you read it right....this once belonged to former President, Richard Nixon!

In May, the day before my birthday, a good friend from church took me out on a photography excursion. The purpose was to help me use my camera better. I never realized what a photo op gem Murrieta truly is! I have visited a few of the places where these pictures where taken but never thought of them as an opportunity for sharpening my skills. I'm truly a novice. I've never had any photography classes (yet) & I don't know how to photo shop nor have it! Photography has always been one of those mommy hobbies of mine. Julie gave me some very simple pointers & it seems it paid off. It was a noticeable improvement (to me anyway). I hope you enjoy them. I had lots of fun! It was such a fun little adventure~! Thank you, Julie!!

Happy Birthday, Dad!!

2011-07-03T01:59:00.000-07:00

First receiving blanket

2011-05-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

I learned how to make these receiving blankets this evening at a Relief Society gathering. I own a sewing machine but haven't taken any sewing classes since I was in Jr. High. I can pretty much sew a straight line and that is about it for right now. I must admit it was fun. I hope the desire to sew continues because it seems all around me everyone is expecting babies.....except for me (=
The first blanket was given to my sister-in-law, Kristi who had a baby girl in May. The last two blankets were given to my nephew Michael who is expecting twin daughters in July!

Learning to sew

2011-05-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

This is another receiving blanket I made out of flannel. For now, I'm keeping this blanket. Sew happy!

Five 72° kits complete :)

2011-05-17T13:34:00.000-07:00

Five 72° kits..

Our Relief Society leaders put together an evening of quilting & preparedness. It's always nice to know you have a backpack you can grab incase of an emergency. These 72 hour kits were put together in a matter of minutes.

Mother's Day 2011!

2011-05-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

I had the best Mother's Day! My day began with heading to church alone. It truly was a treat (I kind of hate to admit that but it's true!). I didn't mind since everyone was still recovering from bronchitis. Poor Garrett had a virus that gave him blisters/sores in his mouth, on his hands & feet not to mention his allergies were acting up & he was fighting bronchitis. I know he didn't mind being home from school at all last week. Fortunately, he was completely healed up (except for some coughing and sneezing) and ready for school today.
When I came home from Church, I arrived to find 3 smiling faces, 2 children running with open arms greeting me with warm embraces & jumping up & down out of their skin shouting, "open mine first" (as they waved cards & gifts), & the smell of Laureen's yummy spaghetti recipe wafting through the air was heavenly. When I asked if I should open my gifts the kids were screaming with excitement. I opened & read each card, including the handmade ones. I received my most favorite body oil in the whole world-Neutrogena Sesame Body Oil (2 bottles) & a Cuisinart Ice Cream, Sorbet, Yogurt maker. WOW!!
I felt (and still feel) totally spoiled!! We sat down & enjoyed a delicious dinner and fun conversation. I took a few minutes to call & wish my sister & mother a happy Mother's Day. I got to work on my calling and enjoyed relaxing the rest of the evening. I'm grateful to have been blessed with the best children & husband! I soaked it all in & loved every minute of my own very special Mother's Day.

a beautiful bouquet of pink & yellow roses sat on the table in the living room

My Mother's Day Cache

Gerbera daisies on our front porch in full bloom

Some final thoughts on Mother's Day

I shared a few thoughts about a talk given by a young lady in our ward at dinner this evening. She spoke about Mothers, Service & the Saviour. She was maybe 16 years old & lost her mother to cancer several years ago. She asked a few questions that got us all thinking. Who fed the hungry? The Saviour & my mom. Who clothed the naked? The Saviour & my mom. Who cared for the sick? The Savior & my mom. She mentioned how service for others, the service our mother's render to us & the ultimate example of service demonstrated by the Saviour were all selfless acts of love. She also reflected on the things her mother did with her before she died which at the time she felt she had taken for granted but now treasures. She loves & now treasures the memories her mother left behind-taught her how to crochet, bandaged her wounds, cooked for her and loved her. As she closed her talk, I don't think there was a dry eye in the room.

I never really thought much about how those three topics might have similarities but did after listening to her speak. I have reflected about my mother this past week & I want to share how grateful I am that she gave me life, for all of her selfless sacrifice in raising her children the best she knew how & that she is still here upon the earth to love & to tell her so. I love you Mom. Thank you for always being there for me and loving me!! I am grateful that I love being a mother & was again reminded that my role as Mother is a sacred responsibility that I feel very blessed to have.

Kodak 1922 Kodachrome Film Test-Beautiful!

2011-05-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

I thought this was a beautiful short film by Kodak. I believe this was one of the test films they first used (in color) before using them in color motion picture. I read that somewhere. Either way, enjoy!

Friends become our chosen family

2011-04-26T17:20:00.001-07:00

Ever had one of those best friends who you did just about everything with??

I'm certain many have. I count myself fortunate Brenda & I shared many treasured memories during our youth. I've known Brenda since high school. We were pregnant at the same time, had our sons within 2.5 months of each other & they played together, waded in their swimming pool together & had their pictures taken together when they were under a year old. We lived next door to one another and have kept in touch by mail (Christmas Cards) for the past 24 years. When I really think of how long I've known Brenda, it's been since I was 15 (31 years this May)!! To think Brenda's son, Jimmy & my eldest son, Ricky are now 26 really makes me feel OLD!!! Brenda found me on Facebook last year (= It's truly one of the only things I really like about Facebook-keeping in touch with family & loved ones-if it weren't for that I would delete my account!! )

Brenda & her sister were down (from Mississippi) visiting their brother, David & his family this week for Easter & celebrating a few April birthdays. We tried to meet up once before but the timing didn't work for us so, this time I was determined. I think it's amazing it worked out so we could visit with each other over lunch for about 2 hours today!! For me, it was truly a tender mercy of the Lord. I wish we had more time but my kids started back to school this week & the drive during this time of the week to Orange County can be horrendous!! One of the funny things Brenda shared that always reminded her of me is Neutrogena Sesame Body oil. She said every time she uses it she thinks of me. I've been using it FOREVER lol!! You never know what will remind others of you so make sure it's something that at least smells good HAHAHAHAHAHA....she's so cute!! She's been in Mississippi for so long she's lost her CA accent (= She's a Southern Bell now & I just love her Southern Accent!!

I felt so very blessed I could leave home at 10:15 am, arrive by 11:25 and be home by 2:35 pm in time to pick up Garrett at 2:40, I couldn't have planned it better myself!! (Thank you Heavenly Father) Additionally, one of the best things about true friends is you can go years without speaking with one another, reunite and pick right up where you left off. That just about describes us. My close friends become my chosen family! We had so much to catch up on. We both promised we wouldn't allow 24 years to lapse before reuniting again!! BFF ( I have a few of those) !!

(In the picture Aubrey, myself, Brenda & Malaia)

Spring Break

2011-04-25T20:47:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness for quick Facebook posts-I'm referring to them now to help jog my memory so I can update our blog with all the fun our Spring Break brought us.
This year Garrett was off for two weeks & Aubrey just one. Kirk rented a Uhaul so we could load up Glenn's furniture, a few pictures and the piano to drop off on our way to Utah. It felt good to mop the entire downstairs tile once the furniture was loaded up & rearrange the room. love simplifying.

Anyhoo, we were up at 5:30 am Tuesday morning and left as scheduled @ 6:30 am. I know Kirk was surprised to see the boys & I up and ready to go so early! Had the kids not been excited about our trip, waking them up would have been difficult. It was barely an hour into our trip before Garrett was hurling out the back window at 70 mph (he didn't have time to announce it). I felt sorry for him & those behind us. The driver of the car to the left of me had a horrid look of disgust on their face as they watched poor Garrett. Thank goodness for AM PM mini marts, wipes, and Christmas tree car fresheners!! The barf mobile was on the road again. Kirk & Aubrey were hauling the U haul behind the Excursion while the boys & I drove the Fusion. Due to the incident, they passed us by and we met them at our next stop, Grandma's.

We made it up the Cajon Pass and to grandma's without having to pull over again, thank goodness!. We unloaded an area rug, bag of dresses, ficus trees and a few other decorations we no longer wanted. Chris stayed with grandma & JoJo while we headed up North. We arrived in Las Vegas at 12:30 pm, unloaded the furniture at Glenn's, headed over to Catherine's, dropped off the piano (we miss the paino). There were about 8 missionaries and one of Kirk's employees, besides Glenn and Mark....there to help move the piano. We said our goodbye's, left the Excursion at Catherine's place then headed up to St. George, Utah. We decided it would be best to pay for gas in Kirk's work car because it cost approx $200 to fill up the tank each time for the Excursion. (Gas cost me $4.15/gallon today. As I filled up the tank, I stopped at $100 for a total of 22 gallons because I can't handle seeing the price cost anymore than that! Yeah, I think it's a form of denial. So, I don't go many places right now unless it's necessary....which is getting boring FAST!!!)

We arrived in St. George around 4 pm, stopped for a bite to eat at Jimmy John's (which wasn't as good as our first experience in Wisconsin). We rested for about two hours while Aubrey searched for & played with lady bugs...(she's in love with them this right now). I had Kirk drive by the St. George Temple as the sun was setting so I could capture a few shots....this one was taken as we drove past while looking out the window....

Ever notice the American Flag at each Temple? I just noticed this during during our trip.

Be warned I was in the mood for taking Sepia tone pics this entire trip (it's a setting on my camera that I really like, even though a good friend told me she learned in her photo course to take all original pics in color then edit).

As we headed towards the fwy we noticed a buffet restaurant sign called "CHUCK-O-RAMA'S" I had to take a picture and say ummmm no thanks not today, not after how our morning started. As we headed on the 15 North toward Provo it was dark and we could see the whiteness of the snow because of the moon's light. The kids did remarkably well for that stretch of road minus asking 101 times "Are we there yet? How long til we get there and how long is that?"

As we got into Provo, we noticed the fwy was under construction. We followed the detour signs off the fwy then back on the fwy, or so we thought. I think our tiredness was catching up with us because we were four wheeling in a Ford Fusion and we were NOT on the fwy! I asked Kirk, "Where are you going?" He says, "I don't know I'm just following all the other cars in front of me." I said, "there are no cars in front of us". He replies, "Well, there're cars behind me." I look back & say, "Ummm...no there's not." We were on a dirt road which paralleled the fwy in the CONSTRUCTION ZONE with big earth movers and all kinds of construction equipment including those really big lights. I was nervous thinking we were about to see red and blue lights from a state trooper or whatever they call em in Utah. Luckily, we were able to get back on the proper detour road without a ticket and find our hotel room. The bed was calling my name & the hour time difference was really making a difference at this point. We were all checked into The Hilton & glad to be in our room by 11:30pm & ready to collapse!!

The next morning we slept in, stopped at Noodles & company (the kids love it there) for lunch then headed over to the Carl Bloch exhibit. It was a touching display of wonderful artwork, dare I say most of it seemed sacred (not to mention the price was PERFECT-free).

Our next stop was at the BYU Creamery. Since Kirk is the only one who has been there, I thought it would be a good idea if we went as a family. Everyone had ice cream except me. I ordered a small, peanut butter milk shake which was the thickest and best one I've ever had. I'm glad everyone helped me eat it. Because I am certain there was more ice cream in that small milkshake than all three of their scoops combined!

The daffodil's were in bloom right out side the Creamery & there was lots of snow on the mountain in the background, seemed like a perfect spot for a quick photo op.

Tickling dad...

going in for the kill.....

reminding Kirk of when she was one year old.......

The story here...when Aubrey was just a year old Kirk was snapping some pictures of her. Of course like any other photo loving kid, Garrett wanted to be in the picture as well. She didn't like that idea & pulled him out of the picture by his hair. Four years later, Garrett's hair is much longer than it was then and Aubrey's arms have grown in length as well. Thus, the get outta my picture war continues. Garrett managed to pigger hog the frame, eventually. (=

That evening we met with Ron & Lani Blood for dinner at Costa Vida in South Faaaaark (Fork). The "A's" add emphasis to how the locals say it. It was nice catching up with them. Ron was our home teacher for a couple years when they lived in CA before moving to Utah. Lani & Kirk's brother, Eric went to school together. You'll have to imagine what they look like, I didn't want to seem like an Asian Disneyland tourist by snapping any more photos that day (=

Our last day in Provo we decided to kill some time. So we stopped by to see what adventures lie ahead of us. We spotted the Tres Amigos at the DI. The funny part about these pictures, Garrett & I went into the store first while dad tended to temper tantrum Aubrey. When they joined up with us, we spotted them a few isles over trying on & attracted to the same sombrero Garrett tried on moments earlier. An aisle away, Kirk called my name and well....hence, the Tres Amigos...

I promised the kids they could build a snowman and play in the snow. We stopped to fill up the tank on our way back to St. George and found some snow to play in (=

Garrett just couldn't resist trying to imapail dad with a snowball!!

Luckily he missed.

Later this afternoon, we arrived in Las Vegas in time for the family dinner prior to Nate & Sarah's Temple wedding. Here are a few pictures from the dinner.

Catherine & the back of Glenn's head

Sarah & Nate having a moment

Eric talking with his in laws, Danica & Cydney talking

In the background, the back of Cyd's head, Myrna Conger, Catherine, Mark & the back of Glenn's head (again, sorry).

Danica

April 15th, Nate & Sarah are married in the Las Vegas, Nevada Temple. A beautiful day indeed, followed by a beautiful dinner reception.

Anxiously waiting for the bride & groom to make their exit

Aubrey Laureen Jorgenson

Mr. & Mrs. Nate Jorgenson

fascinated by the lady bug

Friends & family

Group picture

The Jorgenson Family

Squeeze in tight

Snapdragons in full bloom

Kirk & Aubrey

Angel Moroni

Aubrey sporting mommy's sunglasses during lunch @ In N Out

Ready for the evening dinner reception with a plumeria in her hair

Jorgenson Cousins (wiggly ones)

Todd & Kristi Jorgenson Family with bride & groom

Officially sisters (in law)
Danica & Sarah Jorgenson

Centerpieces

The Car leaves nothing to the imagination courtesy of Nate & Sarah's friends (=

Aubrey holding her giant firework sparkler waiting to send off the bride & groom

Here they come.........

Tada!!!

Nate carrying his new bride to the vehicle & off to an "undisclosed location"

It was a great gathering of family, new family & friends.

We wish these two every happiness today & always.

Black bean Salsa & brown rice

2011-04-21T17:22:00.001-07:00

Yippee! It worked! I text my picture to my blog from my cell. I tried these two new recipes with a few minor tweaks & they turned out yummylishous! Just a half a cup of each & I'm stuffed! Not to mention they're super healthy for me. Thanks Melskitchen.com for sharing your recipes. To the balsalmic black bean salsa recipe, I added 1/2 tsp of ground chipotle peppers, 4 TBS Swanson's chicken broth & 2 TBS lime juice because I didn't have a fresh lime sitting around. To the baked brown rice recipe I added a can of mushrooms (drained), 4 TBS dehydrated onions (from our food storage), 1 tsp parsley flakes & two dashes of ground cayenne pepper. These two recipes are keepers in my book!

Spring Break

2011-04-11T15:05:00.000-07:00

Geez, never realized how big our formal living room was until it was empty!! Uhaul 3/4 loaded, Old Piano-next. We're NV & Utahrrr bound. Carl Block Exhibit here I come (been looking fwd to it since LAST YEAR)!! Then polishing it all off with our nephew's Temple Wedding in Las Vegas. Looking fwd to a week with family & friends & seriously hoping Aubrey & Garrett don't kill one another on the drive. =) (= Can't wait to take pictures of the Temple with my cameras! Stay tuned for the pics. Here's one I took a couple of years ago of the San Diego, Temple.

"Old Days"

2011-04-02T20:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning started off with a field trip to Copley Symphony Hall with Aubrey. We ended our evening by attending a concert by one of my old favorite bands, "CHICAGO." Since we had a rather filling Mexican lunch, we decided to skip dinner at a sit down restaurant and stopped by Chick-Fil-A. I'm a cheap date for the most part & pretty low maintenance (or so I'd like to think). So, I settled for a small vanilla ice cream cone & some lemonade. We headed over to Pechanga Casino for our evening of music. The last time we were there we attended a concert with some of Kirk's friends and saw Big Bad Voo Doo Daddy, they were really good as well. Pechanga really offers quite a variety of entertainment & all of the concerts I've seen there ( which is a lot) have all been great. What really sweetens the deal for me, there truly isn't a bad seat in the place. Anyway, I didn't have high expectations knowing most of the original band members aren't in the band anymore. I just wanted to hear the old songs. That was what they mostly played and that made me happy. They provided a great show...raised money for breast cancer research, had a young gal (16-17 y/o) from the audience come up and sing with them and played great music for almost 2 hours.

Yes we had great seats

Here's a clip (courtesy of Youtube) one of my favorites called "Old Days" I love the lyrics & they way I feel when I listen to it...reminds me of my childhood.

Old days

Good times I remember

Fun days

Filled with simple pleasures

Drive-in movies

Comic books and blue jeans

Howdy Doody

Baseball cards and birthdays

Take me back

To a world gone away

Memories

Seem like yesterday

Old days

Good times I remember

Gold days

Days I'll always treasure

Funny faces

Full of love and laughter

Funny places

Summer nights and streetcars

Take me back

To a world gone away

Boyhood memories

Seem like yesterday

Old days - in my mind and in my heart to stay

Old days - darkened dreams of good times gone away

Old days - days of love and feeling fancy free

Old days - days of magic still so close to me

Old days - in my mind and in my heart to stay

Old days - darkened dreams of good times gone away

Old days - days of love and feeling fancy free

Old days - days of magic still so close to me

We tried to capture a few pics with my cell phone but it just wasn't working. It took two of us to try to take the picture hahahahahahaha! We both concluded how very tired we were and felt !! We had a great time together & isn't that what's important after all? Yes!!

I'm going to a SNIFFONY....

2011-04-02T17:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we took Aubrey to The Copley Symphony Hall. It was a field trip with her school. Because it's a Charter school each family provides transportation to & from. An added bonus is they allow family & siblings to attend. Fortunately, Kirk was able to get the day off. Garrett couldn't come because he too, had a class field trip. His class went to the Santa Rosa Plateau. Since we'd been there before Garrett didn't mind that we went with Aubrey. On our drive to San Diego Aubrey found it challenging to say the word SYMPHONY. Kirk and I couldn't help but giggle to ourselves as we listened to her pronunciations. "What is a Fiffony?" "How much longer til we get to the SNIFFONY?" We practiced saying SYMPHONY with her. Nonetheless, she would still say "SNIFFONY" each time she referred to our destination. It turns out Copley Symphony Hall was celebrating their 100th year. In addition, they were celebrating 100 years of transportation which they incorporated into their presentation . They played a piece written by Strauss, called "An American in Paris" (in addition to several others) and how musical instruments were used to make sounds of the bustling city. They demonstrated to the children the instruments being used make specific sounds then asked them to listen for them. I enjoyed the way they engaged the children by including them as part of the whole experience. I have to admit I was having my doubts about how long she would last in her seat listening to music. Surprisingly, we found her attention span was about 30-40 minutes before she was letting me know she was bored, hungry and ready to go home. Overall, it was a fun & new experience for both Aubrey & myself as neither one of us had been to a symphony before.

CANCER Strong Family History

2011-03-31T12:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Family Members,

I'm sharing this note to help educate us....blame the nurse in me! We have a VERY strong history of Cancer in our family.

My Paternal Great Grandfather

Wm FRANK Simmons (Mouth, tongue)

3 of his children

Lucille Simmons (Kotick) (Paternal Great Aunt) Breast, Eye, Skin, passed 2009

William F. Simmons (Paternal Grandfather) Prostate CA, Skin CA February 09, 2004

James BYRON Simmons (Paternal Great Uncle) Brain Tumor June 28, 2004

Myrtle's Simmons (Flenniken) (Paternal Great Aunt) has a son who has leukemia

My Paternal Grandmother

June Leral (Simmons)-Breast, Lung 1996

Here is a link on youtube (safe to click)

http://www.youtube.com/JustAskHBOC#p/c/5A3CD608C65F792F/3/-GwdZIqJf8g

The link explains why you should have a Comprehensive BRAC analysis (simple blood test) which will let you know if you carry the cancer gene mutation. This doesn't mean you will get cancer but are at a higher risk for developing it.

Yes, even the men ought to be tested. As the video explains, one father was a carrier who passed it on to his daughter...she got breast cancer in her 20's.

I'm truly not trying to be an alarmist. I just want to be part of your lives for as long as possible. Knowledge is power dear family. I pray we can view this note as informative and perhaps we can use this to share what we know of our family members specific Cancers so that OUR CHILDREN will have some record to refer to for themselves.

I'm sorry if this comes as a shock to some of you (my children, nieces, nephews, cousins) but I believe it's better to be informed than not.

I love you all.

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?saved&&note_id=10150146871411777 (I actually posted this on my facebook page) There are pictures of my family members who died from Cancer contained within this FB Note.

Godly Parenting

2011-03-30T13:01:00.000-07:00

Finally someone who totally understands & explains my parenting style-THANK YOU, Wallace Goddard!!!! PARENTING with COMPASSION. I believe everyone could gain some insight from this article. It's a little long but worth the read & I highly recommend it.
I strongly feel when you believe in Christ the love we have for our Savior, especially when entrusted to care for His children, should be mirrored in our example to them. How we treat them really does matter. If you are struggling with differing parenting styles stay the course that is rooted in COMPASSION for you will teach your children more than anyone who does not ever could. They will wax strong when they know they are loved. They will trust you when they feel they are understood. They will turn to you when they ought to. They will look to you & remember what you've taught, how you've raised them & most important your example!! How do I know this? I have a 26 y/o, 18 y/o, 9 y/o (3 sons) & a 5 y/o daughter. Experience has taught me this. Ruling by an iron fist really gets you nowhere except hurts everyone. Anyhoo, it's totally obvious the world is growing in darkness & wickedness at a very rapid pace which makes it more challenging to raise our children in these latter days but it can be done. We need to be watchful, prayerful & consistent. I'm so very grateful for the Gospel which leads, guides & directs me in all aspects of my life. What a great compass it is. I don't know how parents without the Gospel find answers, peace & solace. Our Savior had a great love for all children. I believe having compassion for someone else is a gift. It is a very selfless act that brings about feelings of brotherly/sisterly love for another. It leads us to serve those in need. As we've heard many times from our leaders, teaching starts within the walls of our own homes & I believe this couldn't be more true! I believe you can't go wrong as a parent if you practice compassion combined with teaching proper principles rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Here is a link to the Article. Enjoy! http://ldsmag.com/index.php?option=com_zine&view=article&Itemid=3&ac=1&id=7722

Garrett's Birthday, Flu, Phlebotomy school & Seizures

2011-03-29T00:55:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a past three days it's been. Saturday started off in Temecula to watch Garrett's last flag football game (which his team lost) but what a fun time they had playing. (I'll post a pic as soon as I get one from my friend Kathleen who happened to remember her camera-great friend). We then celebrated Garrett's party from 1-7. Garrett's really growing up...maturing in ways.

Me sitting on the floor at the surgery center while taking a break (drinking my cranberry juice) in 2001 5 months pregnant with Garrett.

Here is a picture of Garrett, myself & Dr. Weiner holding Aubrey...she was a week old. As you can see I'm still swollen from my C-Section. Dr. Weiner was a coworker, friend and anesthesiologist who did the anesthesia for me (C-Sections) when I delivered Garrett & Aubrey. We worked together for 13 years at a local surgery center.
A quick flashback. On the day Garrett was born, I remember being at the doctors office having my ultrasound, I was told my boy would weigh between 12-15 lbs....I nearly fainted! I was in major denial. They also discovered I had extra amniotic fluid and the cord was around Garrett's neck twice....thus, I was granted enough time to get my baby bag, round up a favored anesthesiologist, get Ricky & Chris situated and turn around and head back to the hospital...for my first C-Section. Needless, to say I was a little bit nervous. I was surrounded by great friends, Stephanie & Kathleen. Amy drove me to the hospital (and my Dr.s appt that day). Dr. Weiner was my anesthesiologist, a great friend and coworker for many years. Garrett was not happy to be disrupted from the womb-he had and still has a set of lungs on him. He weighed in at a whopping 9 lbs 15 oz. I was told by Dr. Lebo it was a good thing we got him out when we did. Had I gone into labor it most likely would've been a red blanket..emergent situation-prolapsed cord delivery. Our Father in Heaven was watching over us. Garrett has brought much joy into my life. He's an old soul. He loved flag football this year, has enjoyed Cub Scouts and is ready to advance into Bears. Here are some of his birthday pics.

Are we having fun yet?

Make a wish..........

Christopher started his clinical rotation at Rancho Hospital yesterday. Today was round two and he said he was running all day....didn't even have time for a lunch break, poor kid. Not to mention he feels like he is coming down with the flu......which he would have got from me =/

I woke up yesterday feeling lousy. I tossed and turned all night with what I thought was indigestion....NOT. Incase, you didn't know I'm one who HATES to vomit so, i'll wait as long as I can or until it passes. Anyway, it happened several times and I spiked a crazy high fever which climbed up to 103.6 until I got my blessing. As I received my blessing, I started to sweat like crazy it was embarrassing. I also began to feel very weak and had to lay down. All I remember was moaning myself to sleep then waking up again at 1am to visit the porcelain. I am happy to report today I'm 60% better. I just wish the neck, head and body aches would disappear! So, if mom got you sick, I'm sorry son. =( I'm grateful for priesthood blessings!!

Then this late afternoon I got a phone call from my sister. She was in the ER with Priscilla who had a seizure. After a sedative & testing they released her with a diagnosed ear infection. The seizure was due to her high fever. We're all grateful it was related to something simple vs unknown or more serious. It was a scary experience for my sister though. Johanna is also expecting another baby and found out today she is having a baby girl!!!

Priscilla's pouty lips when she was just a few hours new.

Going private

2011-03-28T21:56:00.000-07:00

I'm toying with the idea of going private. The reason I keep my blog is more for personal reasons...my family. Some of my posts are just things I find interesting. But my overall intention is to have my blog published into a book/s starting this year. I've tried it for a week...and I'm lifting the privacy til the end of April...to mull it over.

Rubik Cube Solved in 20 moves

2011-03-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

I thought this was interesting... probably since I am one who never solved my Rubik's Cube.

Did you know that the inventor of the Rubik's Cube was an architect?
Via: FIXR.COM

Jury Selection process

2011-03-01T16:10:00.000-08:00

I slept maybe 3.5 hrs waking up every 30 minutes worried I'd miss the alarm for jury duty, made it in time. I managed to make a new friend who has two sons serving our country, both Marines (God Bless them).
I was selected in the first round, then fortunately was excused!!! (Thank you Father in Heaven)! I came home, my hubby made me lunch, watched a movie w/my (ill) children, then took a short nap! If I had a full week to be part of the trial & no young children to care for, I'd have done it in a heart beat! Next time (=
I am happy my husband had the opportunity to get the children both in to the doctor before I came home.
Oh, in case I forgot to mention this was my first experience with Jury duty, as I usually get pardoned. Yeah, it's probably not a really big deal to most of you but for me I found it an interesting experience.

Rain, Hail, Rainbows, Pull back Race Cars & Birthdays!

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Saturday & Sunday

It seems like February flew past rather quickly. Garrett started flag football early this month & twice games were canceled due to inclement weather (lots of rain). Saturday morning, I headed to Lowe's for our Cub Scout meeting to attend the pull back race car workshop with our Packs, 524 & 536. We had a great turn out not to mention it was a really big hit with the boys. I can't believe a year has passed since I began serving in Cub Scouts such a great calling, I truly love it. Maybe I enjoy it so much because I have three boys of my own & I love this age. The boys are such fun, can be so silly & are eager to help. As we were walking toward the exit at Lowe's, it started hailing, talk about stirring up excitement! There is something about hail bouncing off the ground, white fluffy clouds, large puddles resembling lakes, a usually dry Murrieta Creek bed overflowing with rushing water & the sky etched with rainbows that stir up great feelings within me. Heavenly Father, has a great way of reminding us how much beauty there is all around us even in the midst of the storm if we will but look for it. We can either rejoice or grumble our way through the storm. It's all a matter of perspective.

After our Cub Scout Workshop, we headed home, wrapped a few gifts & headed over to Nikki's place to celebrate Devin & Nikki's birthdays. I was fortunate enough while at Lowe's, to receive two extra car kits for Devin & Kage. Kirk was able to help the boys build their race cars. Kage especially enjoyed hammering nails. His smile made it all worthwhile! We ate dinner, sang happy birthday followed by the kids playing with Devin's new toys & a surprise game of jump rope.

This past weekend the temps were in the low 30's both at night & in the early morning not to mention it rained a ton!! I love getting all bundled up probably because I was born n raised in Sunny, Southern California where it rarely gets this cold in the city not to mention having lived here all my life. A fond memory I have is when we lived in Hemet, we'd bundle up, pack up the car & drive up the hill just about 20 minutes from our home to Idyllwild so we could play in the snow. We did this yearly & the boys truly enjoyed themselves. We haven't taken the children to the snow this year, not yet anyway. Snow was predicted in Murrieta on Saturday evening which really excited the children who were hoping to wake up to the ground covered in snow Sunday morning. Garrett kept asking me, Mom, if it snows & I'm asleep wake me up please! It didn't happen but there was lots of ice on the roof tops of our home and vehicle, not to mention it was COLD! Sunday was a beautiful day. Hardly a cloud in the sky! Yet, it was cool & the air was crisp. How I love, cold fresh air!!

Murphy's Law Monday

Today, I received a phone call to pick Garrett up from school because he was throwing up. The nurse seemed rather frantic & stressed when she called. I was expecting my visiting teachers when I received the phone call & briefly mentioned I was expecting company, needed to inform them & would be there shortly. The nurse said "I have six children in here throwing up & injured children coming in here from recess to deal with so how long is it going to take you to get here?" Thus, began my Murphy's law Monday. I planned to visit with my Visiting Teachers, get my visiting teaching projects & lesson ready for Thursday, Prepare our FHE lesson, start painting Aubrey's dresser drawers, & send out my Monthly Calendar for Cub Scouts! The day had something else in mind planned for me. Regardless, I made the best of it. I called in for jury duty last night & today. I could sense Tuesday would be my day to report.......& it is. I'm hoping I get dismissed because I have things planned this week (RS Dinner, Cub Scouts, VT and volunteering in Aubrey's class) not to mention I have a sick child here at home. The Lord will provide (=
Now a few pictures taken with my Nikon camera which I am still learning how to use & loving the pictures. Sorry if that's bragging but I can't help it (=

Taken from our backyard facing East looking across the old airstrip, the Murrieta Creek and you can see the steeple of our church just beneath the beautiful rainbow.

A little bit closer.

I'm not certain if you can see him/her but there is a large & beautiful crane in this shot. I loved watching it move, it was so graceful.

Devin, Nikki & Kage

Nikki lighting 8 candles for Devin

Enjoying his new DS

Kage, he is so darned cute! I just love his smile. I think he was rather proud of his race car he built! What do you think?

Enjoying his new "Paper Jam" guitar

Aubrey plucking a few strings (with Mo Tab on the screen behind her)

Jump! Jump!

Wearing mommy's new reading glasses. Aubrey is such a silly, fun little girl!

Uncle Garrett & Devin

"Hammering nails, building my car"

" Happy Birthday, too you!!"

Balloons are so much fun when you're little

Sea World!!!!

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It's been since 1994 that I last visited Sea World. We had an opportunity to attend with Aubrey's school yesterday. Originally, the family was going to attend but Kirk's boss decided Kirk needed to be in Los Angeles for three days this week. So, with an extra ticket I had to find someone who might be interested in attending. We finally found someone who said yes, Christopher & Ricky's cousin, Jonah. We had a wonderful day of fun & learning which caused me to appreciate how awesome our Father in Heaven is to have created such beautiful creatures, placed here upon the earth for us to enjoy.

There were so many great shots to choose from. I hope you enjoy them as much as we do.

My favorite Hawaiian Island...........so far.

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Our stay at Kingsland, Waiakaloa Village was quite a treat.

Dinner at the Outback in Kona. Gorgeous view. Gorgeous Sunset.

Great dinner, great trip, great friends.

Kona temple

On the last full day of our trip, we decided to start off our morning with an early trip to the temple, with the Mathesons.

It was grey and cloudy but it cleared up to be rather gorgeous day filled with snorkeling adventures all day long.

Yellow butterflies were hatching out of their cocoons and fluttering everywhere. They were a beautiful site.

Look out towards Captain Cooks Cove a popular place to snorkel I'm told. One must travel there by boat to take in the sites of the majestic ocean. Maybe one day......

Eric and Kirk snorkeling. I didn't know this was Kirk's first time snorkeling as was mine.

I loved the waterfalls surrounding the pool at our time share.

Beautiful Hibiscus flowers begging for their picture to be taken

Before we left the temple grounds, Kirk & I headed back to our rental car to retrieve my camera. I decided I wanted to walk up towards the temple from the grassy lawn which lie to the West (in my memory that's how I remember it but direction in Hawaii is a little different). To my amazement there were beautiful horses grazing in the lushous green neighboring fields. I have a secret love for horses. Had one named April for a few years.

This is where the lava met the ocean, thus the black sands. I find beauty in the blackness of the sand. It sparkled like diamonds. The whitewash of the ocean looked whiter than white.

Waves, I spent many hours of my mis spent youth sitting on the shores of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, El Porto and Grand Beach in El Segundo soaking up the sun like a Goddess, playing in the waves, watching the grunion run, collecting sea shells, walking the shores and sitting silently with my eyes closed, listening to the sound of the ocean. I was blessed to grow up along the ocean during my young life.

This spot here in Hawaii was peaceful and caused me to reflect upon my blessed life.

Our trip to the islands started off rather interesting. I don't want to sound like I am bragging about myself but I felt I was truly blessed to have the skills I possess as a nurse. 21 years and counting! During our flight, an elderly gentleman had some serious difficulty en route to Honolulu. Myself, two other RN's and an anesthesiologist were able to set up a makeshift mini ER to keep this gentleman alive. It was a great feeling that total strangers could jump into action and work as a team never having met one another previous to this flight. It was a satisfying feeling to have been there for him and his family, whom were especially grateful.
Turbulence didn't seem to bother me as much when I was focused on helping someone else. I had never been on a flight where we arrived at the airport almost 30 minutes ahead of schedule because the pilot was encouraged to "high tail it" to the airport for our patient. I did receive a nice thank you letter from Hawaiian Airlines for helping during the flight.
The next day, day two of our trip, we had planned to check out our local surroundings & unwind from our trip, then head to the temple that evening. My friend Kristi, became ill and fortunately, I was able to help her that evening as well. On the third day, I fell ill with an upset stomach during the night which left as quickly as it came. By morning, we were off exploring the island like nobody's business. We discovered we like "malasadas" and became experts on who had the best ones on the island. YUM!! In a nut shell, it was a great getaway without our children, whom we missed dearly, but enjoyed the time we had to appreciate one another and the beauties our Father in Heaven created and take time to get to know our friends even better.
A L O H A and until next Christmas!

Male bonding time

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Boiling pots

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Hibiscus

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Again, heed the warning

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Looky, it's an LDS church :)

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Kristi

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Heed the warning

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Bye bye cave

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Up & outta here

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I was so glad to get out of the cave entrance, I was being eaten alive by mosquitos =(

The boys had fun exploring

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Exiting the Kamauna Cave/LavaTube

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Inside the Cave

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Inside the Kamauna Cave

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Telescope Atop Mauna Loa Volcano

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There was ice on the ground, snow to play in if you wanted to drive up about 1/2 mile from here, it was windy, and in the mid teens with the wind chill factor. The visitors center had a movie playing about the weather, volcano and points of interest particular to this volcano. They sold hot chocolate and hot top ramen noodles to their visitors.
This was a surprise to me.

Parker Ranch Sunset

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Parker Ranch Sunset

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Parker Ranch Sunset

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Beautiful vista on our way to the volcano

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Eric standing by massive tree

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Loved this tree, love this man

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