Army of Four

The Kids 1st Close Shave

2012-01-20T20:47:00.001-05:00

I filmed this just last night. It is a bit long and mostly for the grandparents and those who have the time. We have horrible lighting in the bathroom, hence the 1980's video look. I found this shaving kit for Ian at Goodwill for just $1.00!

(I'll be working backwards on the blogging. Easier that way for me. So stay tuned for more later on.)

My Ian

2011-12-09T13:23:00.001-05:00

Another few things that Ian like to say that I must write down otherwise I'll forget.

I was sorting out the laundry and noticed Ian was in the bathroom going through a lot of toilet paper, wiping at his nose.
Me: Ian, it might help better if you blow into the tissue instead of just wiping.
Ian: No, it won't help. Its not snot its just a lot of goo.

Sorry if that's gross, but for me it was funny that he calls his drippy nose goo.

Last night he did one of his words that just makes me want to hug him so tight and tell him to never grow up and stay little forever.

I put in a movie for him in my bedroom that he wanted to watch. I needed to go shower, Isabel was playing elsewhere, and Shaun was fixing something so it was just Ian.

Ian: Mommy, will you stay and watch the movie with me so I won't be a lonely?

For some reason he says A Lonely, not alone. He separates it and adds the ly. It is the most adorablest thing that he says, with a sweet sad voice. So precious.

Its Beginning to Feel A Lot Like Christmas..

2011-12-05T14:43:00.001-05:00

Ian and I are in the car driving home.

Ian: "Mom, I want to listen to Jib Jab".
I figured with my hearing impairment I might I have heard him wrong, but sure enough, that was exactly what he said.
Interpretation: "Mom, I want to listen to Feliz Navidad".

The kids love watching and listening to the Christmas Jib Jab videos with their faces on the dancers. Then the day before, Feliz Navidad came on the radio and sure enough the kids started swinging and dancing exactly like how the dancers do on the Jib Jab video. Loved it.

My 32nd Birthday

2011-08-23T05:15:00.000-04:00

This year for my birthday Shaun wanted to take me on a Shark Tour at North Shore. Only time available was an 0600 slot (that's 6am for non-military personnel). So we dropped the kids off with some good friends of ours to stay the night, and set the alarm for 0415 so we can be there at 0530. Of course I was a bit out of sorts when we woke up and was definitely not able to eat much, but I did mange a piece of toast and peaches. And just so you know I did prepare myself with Dramamine an hour before so that it is coursing through my bloodstream in plenty of time for the boat ride.

We arrived just in time and boarded the boat with just a touch of light in the sky. Shaun and I sat at the front of the boat since there was no where else for us to sit and soon discovered that we were going to get quite wet before we even got in the water. The waves were huge that morning and causing us to dip up and down like a roller coaster. We were being splashed on and rained on. 3 miles out we finally made it to the buoy for the boat to anchor to.

I kept asking Shaun "didn't you tell me that morning time was the best time to see sharks because the water is really calm in the morning?". The waves were still causing the boat to lurch up and down, and was starting to feel a bit nauseous by now. Shaun and I got up and looked over the side of the boat, and there they were. Big, huge, multiple wild sharks swimming around. Crazy! Alas, seeing the water rising up at me and dropping so suddenly was the last straw. Heave, ho! I lost it. On the same side that the shark tank was on.

Whoops. Felt a little better though, for like a split second, and then made it to the other side of the boat before I lost it again. This happened repeatedly, for the entire time we were on the boat. I would slowly make my way to the end of the boat, and kept telling myself "if I could just get in the water I'll be fine". At one point I saw Shaun step to the side and did a little heave, ho himself. I thought he drank a whole bunch of water and then spewed it out to make it look like he was throwing up just to make me feel better that I wasn't the only one, but.. I was wrong. He was really sick himself, but luck guy felt better after only one session of throwing up.

Slowly I got myself ready to go by making my way to the tank which was ready for me to get in. As I'm trying to pull my mask on I told Shaun "I don't feel so good" and pretty much collapsed. Shaun and the Captain picked me up and laid me down on a padded bench to rest and recover till we were back on land.

Later on, Shaun told me that I wasn't the only one with a sensitive stomach. Pretty much the whole tour group was out for the count.

I was so excited! I couldn't wait to see the sharks. Oh, well.

Undercover from all the water coming down on us on the trip out to the sharks. Unbeknownst to me Shaun was already feeling a bit sick. Can you tell?

Love this guy!

This was when I started to get really sick. Blah! I hate throwing up.

We capped off the day with a movie and seafood dinner.

Ordered delicious snow crabs, and not so good steak combo. I even got a free birthday dessert that was yummy.

Thank you, Shaun, for yet another unforgettable birthday.

Ian Turned 4

2011-08-08T05:13:00.000-04:00

My sweet little Ian turned four August 6th. We already had this big Pirate Party for him on the Mainland so we did this quiet family birthday event on the actual day. He asked to go to Chuck E Cheese so off we went. Cheese pizza and rootbeer was his request, but he didn't eat or drink any of it till afterwards when we were in the car. He kept running around and doing all the games, he was too busy to think about eating. On the way home I picked up these gourmet cupcakes at Safeway, and I have to say WOW! They were good. Really good. Ian had a small bite off the top and he was good (sadly I finished it for him later).

Happy Birthday my sweet wonderful Ian. You make me smile every morning when you wake me up with your "its morning time" routine. I love that you let me hug and kisses you all I want, and you hug me so tight back. I love how easy it is to make you smile, and laugh. I love how kind you are to everyone, especially your sister. I love everything about you. Don't grow up too fast? I want you to stay my little boy forever.

Back to School for my 1st Grader

2011-08-04T03:42:00.000-04:00

My sweet little Isabel started school Monday! In 1st grade! She is so grown up, and pretty, and adorable, and I'm not just saying that because I'm her mom.

Finally Home!

2011-07-28T17:17:00.000-04:00

After a two month long vacation in Washington and Utah I am finally home and can start the blogging again. I'm seriously cringing at the idea of going through my 400+ pictures and videos that I took, and organizing it all for the blog.
"I..., I will triumph"
Meg Ryan, in ________ . (who can guess what movie?)

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-31T01:18:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day!

And a thank you to all you Military soldiers for sacrificing yourself for our country.

Mahalo!!

Memorial Day was spent at the Grandparent Elton's house with lots of cousins running around. It was a fabulous, beautiful day. It couldn't have been better. Except if Shaun was there with us.

First order of the day was to go for a swim with the Bug King handing out nectar for all the little ones.

After a quick rinse our kids were treated to a spa service by grandpa Bill. Totally awesome style.

There were lots of bikes riding back and forth.

Once the kids worked up a good appetite Grandma Chelle had a wonderful BBQ feast ready for us. Hotdogs, Hamburgers, potato salad, fruit salad with lemon whip cream, a variety of chips, and rootbeer/cream soda.

The bubble machine was a huge hit. The kids played with that thing forever!

Obie eating the bubbles is probably the Mann way to do things.

Gathering wood for the fire pit so we can roast those marshmallows.

Totally Posers.

All 10 grand kids, and happy as can be with Grandma Chelle's brownies.

The newest edition to our Elton Family, little Miss Hazel. Only 4 weeks old. So precious. So wish I have another one.

Gorgeous!

Marshmallow Monster!

Peter started this new "tradition" of spinning the kids on the tire swing with his own flair to it. Then he caps it off with a magic show. Totally cool.

Homemade Hill Ride

2011-05-21T19:25:00.000-04:00

Finding joy and happiness in little things is truly a fabulous idea.

Shaun came up with this idea to ride the kid's old plastic tricycle down the hill, and the kids just absolutely loved it.

Ian's 1st Soccer Pratice

2011-05-14T23:20:00.000-04:00

I found a sign up for a Mini Soccer team for kids 4-5 years old. I just had to sign Ian up for it. Plus it was an awesome deal, just $20 that includes a t-shirt for the boy and a parent, and a sweet little Nerf soccer ball for them to practice on. He had his first practice at Alimanu, Hawaii and just was the cutest thing ever. The program is just to teach the kids the basic of soccer, to just give them a bit of an idea what it is all about. Of course the next time we went he didn't want to do it anymore. We'll keep trying, no rush, but it was still fun to see him running around with the other kids. A great preview for whats to come.

Ian at his first soccer practice at Alimanu, Hawaii.

Like father like son. Notice how big the shirt is on Ian? It was the smallest they had, and it didn't help that he was also the smallest in the group, but still so adorable!

Listening to the coach

They are all running over to the coach

Can't have soccer without the team pile up and cheer. Ian is in the middle.

He did that all on his own. He is one cool dude.

My Fantastic Week w/ Sarah!

2011-03-08T02:38:00.000-05:00

With Shaun being gone for so long I put out an SOS to all my family and friends, and Sarah, my sista, answered my call. She was able to get an airplane ride out for just herself, and leave her four sad children behind with her husband, for one of the best week ever!

MONDAY: Sarah arrived at 2:30pm, leaving behind a snowstorm and entering a warm tropical paradise. Gave her the tour of my home then took her to Ala Moana Mall to look at all the fun stores and get some things at Macy. Then grabbed some food to go so we could sit out on the beach for her first sunset. Missed it by a few minutes, but we still enjoyed our food (Hawaiian for her, Panda Express for me), and listening to the ocean waves.

TUESDAY: Sarah was up bright and early (time change) and headed out with me to do my Stroller Strides. She did an amazing job for a girl who hadn't exercised in a long time. So amazing that her body just wouldn't let her keep up with her enthusiasm (she threw up like a princess, very quietly and off to the side. I didn't even know till I caught up with her. In her defense the time change, plus the heat wasn't making it easy.). We went to my local recreation pool afterwards for a much needed time in the sun. After a clean up, and rest at home we picked up Isabel and went on the Waimea Falls Hike. Very lovely, sunny and quiet. Sarah was even brave enough to take my kids out for a swim at the Falls.
On our way back we enjoyed delicious Sno Cones (w/ ice cream of course), and a sandwich at Maui Mike's. Best place ever!

WEDNESDAY: We took Ian to Gymnastics, and did a little shopping till Isabel got out of school. Its so much fun shopping with Sarah. She likes to take her time and look at everything and just stroll along. I always just run around and grab what I need and out I go.
Izzy got out early so off we went for our first day at the beach at Waimea. And guess what!? It was overcast, and windy. The waves were huge and crashing on top of our stuff. We debated whether or not to just leave or stay. We stayed. While I took the kids exploring along the beach Sarah, brave girl, swam out in the ocean, saw some whales spouting out water and enjoyed a bit of tumbling around head over heals as the waves dragged her back in the ocean. Had pizza for dinner and watched Off The Map, a TV show I like watching.

THURSDAY: Today was souvenir shopping. First I took her to the Fabric Mart where there is row upon row of Hawaiian fabric. Next door was the Craft Store that sold foam mold Hawaiian flowers (the kind that you see tucked behind every Hawaiian girl's ear). Next I took her to the NEX so that we could get a good deal through the military. She got lots of fabulous stuff to take home. Once Isabel got out of school we headed downtown Honolulu to explore the Hilton Village and walk along the beach boardwalk. We were able to stay just long enough for another beautiful sunset. I decided I wanted give Sarah the Genki Sushi experience. She was such a good sport. The service was horrible and the food for the first time was very sub par. Not how I wanted it to go for her. She did like the spicy endame I picked out for her!

FRIDAY: I kept Isabel home for school so we could try once again to get a day at the beach with out the overcast, windy, rain following us. We choose wisely by beaching at Ko Olina. What we weren't wise about was our sunscreen. We got horribly burnt. Sarah and I had a very well cooked stomach and thighs, while my kids had ruby cheeks and noses. The sun felt good at the moment! We just are still suffering for it now. Before we headed back I wanted to see if the Black Pearl from the Pirates of the Caribbean was still moored at the docks next to Ko Olina. Avast, matey! Ther' she blows! Argh!
Later I got a babysitter for the kids so Sarah and I could have a girls night out. We headed back to Honolulu, but due to traffic didn't make it in time for us to eat at this restaurant, instead we ate at a food court and headed back the other way to catch a movie. We had to stop at this store first that makes Hawaiian quilted purses and bought a beautiful blue purse for Sarah. We cross over to the theatre only to find that they were sold out. We race back to Aiea to see if they were sold out there, and luckily they weren't. Unfortunately the movie stinked! (Beastly was the name and it was beastly to watch).

SATURDAY: I took Sarah over to the Kaneohe side to show her the beautiful mountains and scenery. Couldn't see them because of all the rain!! I did show her the stairway to heaven though. After a long lovely beach drive we finally make it to BYU/Polynesian Cultural Center area. We got a delicious shakes at the same MacDonald that we went to as kids last we were here together. The Laie Temple was next, and as we walked around it felt wonderful, peaceful, and calm with just being there. We had to visit the Turtle Bay Resort since we stayed there as a family when we were little and wanted feel the memories again. Yep, it brought back a load of memories. We enjoyed a dinner over looking the ocean with some surfers out on the waves while we were there. The day wasn't done yet. We stopped by the Dole Plantation next. We didn't feel like spending money on the tours so we just walked around the store (bought a big bottle of burn lotion that's supposed to decrease your burn by 68%, it worked pretty well I think). Sarah bought pineapple ice cream for the kids, and I got some cinnamon roasted macadamia nuts. Oh! Was that stuff good. So, so good! Mouth watering now.
We did take a walk around the grounds and found a koi pond that were jumping on top of each other just to get the food you could throw in. Crazy! Sarah made this hilarious interpretation of a koi fish eating that had me cracking up so hard I had tears running down my face. She is the funniest girl I know.
After a few fun pictures we finally headed home, and watch Miss Congeniality.

SUNDAY: Enjoyed a moment of rest and some aloha spirit at my ward. I started crying in Sacrament because I forgot just how much I missed singing with my sisters in church. And also that this was my last day with her.
Because it was her last night I took her back to Ko Olina to enjoy one last beach sunset. It was beautiful and sad all at once.

MONDAY: Super sad! I really didn't want her to go. To take our mind off of her leaving we thought we'd check out Pearl Harbor just to walk around the grounds, not the boat ride. It has changed drastically. Very different from when we were here last as kids. Way cooler. I took her back to the Fabric Mart and the Craft Store for some more flowers and fabric. Then off we went to the airport. We were a whole hour early so I sat with her for awhile and we talked about many things; how much fun we had, what are plans are at home now that things are back to normal, and plans for our next trip to be together.

Thank you so much for coming out to be with me, Sarah. You are a fabulous, brave, and hilarious woman. I am super proud to have you as my sister. Love you to bits and pieces!!

I really thought I could

2011-03-04T12:29:00.000-05:00

Totally feel ridiculous. I really thought I could keep a journal for the time Shaun is gone, but my mind would draw a blank on the day. I think I need brain surgery.
Life is good. My sister is in town and we are having a great time.
Kids are still around and thriving. At least I can't go wrong there.
I'm on day 17, so lets not go a long that topic.

26 More Days

2011-02-23T14:59:00.000-05:00

Shaun left for a business trip to American Samoa Monday. He is supervising a Dental Mission. He's making sure all the soldiers are either a category 1 or 2 dental wise. So far he has hit every brick wall imaginable. Its been one messed up thing after another. No Xray equipment, or surgical equipment, all on the day that 200 something soldiers were ordered to take the day off from work so they could be looked at. Shaun of course pulled a few magic tricks out of his hat and managed to save the day, but I can just imagine how stressed out he is.
Miss him terribly. The nights are the worst without him.
Luckily my sister Sarah is coming to town for a week!! Super excited, and can't wait to see her!
So for the next 26 days I may or may not keep a journal on our blog to kind of help me remember things for me to share with Shaun when he gets back.

My schedule for today:
Take Ian to gymnastic
Pick up Isabel at 12:35 from school
Maybe go swim at the Recreation Pool
Grocery shopping
Finish my Sister Quilt Block

Just in case some of you don't know what American Samoa looks like I added these pictures.

It looks beautiful there, but according to Shaun there is not a lot of recreation to choose from other then go to the beach.

Our new phone

2011-01-26T03:28:00.001-05:00

Shaun and I got new phones because our other ones kept turning off with the slightest bumps. Quite annoying. Our new phone has Android and I was able to download a blogger app. Lets see if it works.

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.6

The Man in the Grey Suit

2011-01-25T04:14:00.000-05:00

Posted by Shaun.

I just had a 4 day weekend and took advantage of it by going to the beach with some friends. Because of some heavy rains last week, the normal road that we take to a beach we like was closed from flooding. Determined to go to the beach that day, we took a different route and were still able to go to our beach. Fortunately we were the only ones at the beautiful beach the entire day. After eating lunch and playing with the kids for a while, my friend and I loaded up all of our spearfishing gear into my raft and went out about a mile to go to where the parrot fish hang out. I was at the front of the raft as we were paddling out and saw a huge tiger shark slowly swim by about two feet away from me and about two feet deep. It was definitely longer than I am tall and as wide as a car tire. I knew there are hammerheads and tiger sharks in that area but didn't think that I would see any. We were where we wanted to be so I threw the anchor over the edge of the raft, put on my gear, and decided to try to spearfish by just sticking my head in the water instead of jumping in. Both of us were real nervous being in an inflatable raft with a shark hunting nearby. Wasn't long before I decided to just jump in and take my chances. I love spearfishing too much to let this shark have all the fun. I caught a couple of fish and realized that I couldn't even see my buddy anymore. He stayed in the raft because he is sane. The sun was setting and the bright reflection on the water made it so I couldn't see a thing. I swam a couple hundred feet in the wrong direction before I finally saw him. I figured by then the blood from the fish would have attracted the sharks, so as I was swimming toward the raft, I tried not to be distracted by the fish that were taunting me to shoot them. I finally got to the raft and jumped in to find a very sea sick friend. He leaned over the side of the raft and fed the fish real quick before we started paddling back to shore. Our wives of course thought that we were crazy/stupid/irresponsible/etc. when we told them of our adventure. At work on Monday, word of our run in with the shark got out and people kept coming up to me saying, "I heard that you met a man in a grey suit".

Awww, I feel so loved!

2011-01-24T16:12:00.000-05:00

(Ian found a banana clip, those things that you use to seal up your chip bags, and wrapped it around my neck)

Ian: Mom, I'm going to lock you up forever, 'cause I love you.

Mom: oh no! So I can never get out?

Ian: (kisses me on the nose) k, when I do that that means you can get out, 'cause I love you.

He is just so precious! Moments like these where its all I can do to keep from hugging him too hard because I'm so grateful that he is mine forever.

Christmas Break: Part 3

2011-01-12T20:44:00.000-05:00

Christmas Day

Christmas day was spent at my mom's house in Sumner. The kids, thank goodness, slept in their usual time and was only woken up by me peeking in on them to see if they were awake yet. It was a wonderful relaxing Christmas with just our family and my mom. After all the unwrapping was over we had delicious homemade Belgian waffles, bacon and eggs. The rest of the day was just hanging around the house, enjoying each other's company and watching the kids play with their new toys.

Only one unfortunate event, and that was I forgot to take pictures of my mom and I when I gave her the bracelet and scarf that I made for her. So sad about that.

This year (helped a lot by my mom) was the best Christmas so far that we were able to give the kids. The three of us, my Mom, Shaun and I all picked out something to personally give the kids and then they had a few gifts that Santa gave them. I gave them the Hello Kitty and Snake seen here in the picture.

Shaun, for the second time, lost his ring in the ocean and didn't replace it for a long time. He was too busy. So I took the initiative and picked out 3 rings for him, all at $9 or less(they are stainless steel). That way he can pick one, and if he loses it in the ocean pull out the spare. I know you're thinking "why doesn't he just take the ring off before he goes swimming?". I have no idea.

Shaun's gift to me was the Pictionary Man game. I LOVE board games. It's going to be a new tradition where every year Shaun will get me a new board game for Christmas. Love it!

Shaun's gift to Ian was a Mighty Beanz Spiderman Capsules with some more Mighty Beanz to put in it.

Izzy got some sandals and a few other cute things from Shaun.

Santa knew how much Ian would love these.

Santa found these at a garage sale for just $6! How awesome is that!

Every time I ask Izzy what she wants to be when she grows up "I want to be a Scientist and a Mom at the same time". Santa thought this would help get her started.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Christmas Break: Part 2

2011-01-11T14:39:00.000-05:00

The Nutcracker

Isabel is old enough now that she can sit through movies and concerts. So of course I had to ask my Mom if we could take her to the Pacific Northwest Ballet Nutcracker. So glad we did because it was just priceless seeing the look of awe and wonder on her face as the ballet progressed. There is something wonderful about sharing something that you love with your children, and seeing how much they enjoy it as well.

Thank you Mom for this unforgettable moment that I was able to share with my daughter.

Isabel sat next to her cousin Emma during the production. They are inseparable when they get together. Like two little peas in a pod. So glad they have each other. During the whole ballet they would whisper to each other about this or that, and giggle whenever the male dancers would come out in their tight tights.

Isaac, Sadie, Isabel, and Emma right before the show.

Sarah Steveson, my sister with her daughter Emma.

In between Acts my Mom was able to reserve a table so we could grab a bite to eat. Emma and Isabel were being so cute by telling each other that while they eat they had to stick out their pinkie like a proper lady.

I told Isabel that she could pick out one thing from the store to help remind her of this moment, and she picked these butterfly wings. I also got her a ballet dancer ornament, and a children's book of the Nutcracker.

My wonderful mother and her grandchildren.

Thank you, Mom!

Christmas Break: Part 1

2011-01-10T15:41:00.000-05:00

We spent a month up in Washington for Christmas visiting all our family. It was absolutely wonderful to see everyone again. Miss you all so much the minute I got back on the plane.

I took a lot of pictures and figured I'd break it up into 5 parts. Here is the first one about our trip to Shaun's brother Eric's office at Bungie. For those who don't know, Bungie is the video game company that made (gasp) Halo! I know, I know. I can't believe either that I have a brother-in-law who was actually part of the process in making Halo, the awesomest game ever (according to Shaun).

Big huge poster on the outside of the office.

Shaun wasn't the only one who was in heaven at all the Halo paraphernalia. Ian was ecstatic! He already was clinching a Halo Man doll that Eric let him borrow before we even came. Look at that grin!

This was from the Halo short movie clip that they made about the game.

Totally in love.

Shaun and the one and only....Eric!

Always loved a man in uniform.

Such a cutie.

Our Halloween

2010-11-04T18:21:00.000-04:00

Isabel dressed up for her school Friday the 29th

I just thought it was so cute with her backpack on and everything. This was her idea to go as catgirl by the way.

Halloween isn't a very big deal here. They didn't have a costume parade or any Halloween activity at her school. They just let the kids show up in their costumes if they wanted. So I asked her teacher if I could take pictures and this was all there was to take a picture of.

This was a Pumpkin Carving Event that the PTG put on for Izzy's school. Parents and kids would set up their pumpkins, carve them while listening to Halloween music, and displayed them on the stage. The kids had a blast running around with all their friends while the parents did the carving.

This is a very nice family from our ward who's son is in Isabel's class. Laurie, Josh, Asialynn Horita

I carved Izzy's pumpkin, tracing her hands and doing a rendition of "Scream" from Van Gogh.

Shaun did Ian's with a deviled earred skull.

The kids all counted to three and the lights turned off to reveal the lit up pumpkins. It was great.

Saturday the 29th our ward (combined with another ward) put on a Potluck/Trunk-o-Treat/Game activity. Isabel dressed up in her catgirl costume and Ian was Superman. I originally had this fantastic dragon costume for him from Old Navy but he changed his mind.

Luckily it didn't rain that night considering it rained all the week before and the week after. Thats the church behind the kids.

Shaun's been teasing Ian about Asia being Ian's girlfriend because he likes to play with her in Nursery. She is simply adorable, my little boy's got good taste.

This is Hailey Wallace with Isabel. They are very close friends. They family moved into our ward from Korea(father is in the airforce) just a few months ago and Izzy hit it off right away with her.

This awesome boy is the son of a really good friend, Aikea, from our ward. Recently divorced with three adorable boys. They love playing with Ian. My friend named her boys, Mathias, Elias, & Zacharias. Pretty catchy I thought.

Heading to the Trunk-o-Treat part to get some free candy.

I love their costumes! They are Polynesian Firedancers!

This is at the exit of the Maze the youth put together. I have to say it was one of the best maze I've done. They taped together a lot of refrigerator size cardboard boxes on their sides so you have to crawl through on your hands and knees. Secret panels, spider webs, dangling moss, rubber rats and bugs. Even had a fog machine going and it was pitch dark in most of the maze. You even had to push through a secret door and crawl out onto a wet moss feeling thing, that grossed me out. Once you figured your way out you slide down a cardboard slide out to the exit. I was scared, and scaring the kids, and Shaun of course was laughing.

I know it was Sunday but treak-or-treaters were still going to come to the door so I let the kids pass out the candy which they absolutely loved doing.
It was a very lovely Halloween.

My twin (what Shaun calls it)

2010-09-02T15:54:00.001-04:00

(I had attached a picture of the teratoma that I got from Wikipedia, but Shaun was so grossed out by it that he asked I delete it and just add a link to it instead for those who really want to see it.)

This is so gross, I can barely look at the picture. I'm typing and blocking out the picture at the same time, but this is what was in my left ovary for who knows how long. Its a teratoma dermoid cyst. I just had surgery yesterday to remove my entire left ovary since the cyst was inside and not on the outside like they thought it might be. They are going to cut my ovary open and look inside and let me know at my next appointment all the gory details. Seriously, this is really disgusting, mine was worse than the picture, mine had teeth! Blechh!
I'm recovering OK so far. Problem is Shaun is really really sick and is not getting any sleep. He's having a hard time poor guy, taking care of me and mostly Ian. That boy is really testing Shaun's patience.

Ian's SuperHero Party

2010-08-26T19:13:00.000-04:00

For Ian's 3rd Birthday I wanted to do a Superhero theme since he was always running around saying "Superhero, to the rescue!". So my ideas just grew and grew, and the accumulation of it all was pretty awesome and fun. We had a Superhero boot camp so to speak. I set up an obstacle course to test their endurance. Then set up swinging pendulums with a bad guy punching bag for their agility. Last I had a whole bunch of water balloon 'bombs' with a moving target 'Shaun' to test their marksmanship. Once they completed the course they became official Superhero and I had capes and masks ready for them.
Then we fought the Evil Eye (pinata), and had Superhero cake and ice cream. It was a complete blast. Ian loved it. We especially had such good friends to share it all with too.

I completely ran out of time. Its supposed to be covered in blue sky icing, with the cupcakes in white icing so that it looked liked superman was flying in the sky. Oh well. It tasted really good though.

Here he is, 3 years old! He's wearing his dinosaur shirt that Gma Chelle & Gpa Bill got for him. He wore this for three days straight till I convinced him to let me wash it. He ask for it by the dino's name "I want my Triceratops shirt!"

Like, the best day EVER!

2010-08-23T04:18:00.000-04:00

First let me say that according to Shaun this took months of planning, and a trip to Saipan solely for the purpose of getting the money to pay for all this. And because of all the hard work he did, I had an AMAZING 31st birthday yesterday.
The layout of the 21st of August, my birthday:
Woke up early at 6:30am so we could be up at the North Shore area for my first Skydive.
Flew up at 9am to over 15000 ft! Normally they only fly up to 14000 but Shaun said nobody was complaining so why not go higher. (by the way I was gripping my knees the whole way and trying to remind myself to breathe! The anticipation is always the worst part of it)
After 15mins of flying they popped the door open and out we went. It was intense, and fun at the same time. I honestly think I could do it again.
Once we landed it took me a long time for my body to stop shaking from the nerves and adrenaline rush. Also felt sick to my stomach the longer I was on ground. My fault because I was too nervous to eat much of a breakfast.
Ate at a Mexican restaurant to calm down my stomach and reminisce how no matter where you go you'll never find as good of Mexican food as when we lived in El Paso. Oh, it was so good there.
Of course we had to get one of the local shaved ice cones. Its soooo good with the ice cream mixed in there.
Next we hit the beach, Pupekea to be exact. Ian fell asleep so I opted to relax and read my book while Isabel and Shaun went snorkeling.
We then hurried home to get ready in time before the babysitter shows up at 3:30pm.
Shaun and I arrive at the Aloha Tower and walk to Pier 6 and surprised me with tickets to go on a Sunset Dinner Cruise! Such a wonderful husband! I absolutely LOVED it!
We had a five course meal of :

Cocktail shrimp

Salad

Lobster

Beef tenderloin w/ veggies and mashed potatoes

Chocolate cake

We could walk around on the decks anytime we felt like it to enjoy the view of the Island and the ocean. They even had hula dancers and a Hawaiian singer playing throughout the whole cruise. It was so romantic and just perfect ending to an already amazing day.

Thank You Shaun!

This is my Skydive instructor John. He was awesome. He helped feel calm, and excited about my first time.
The photographer was Dan, he made it really easy for me to smile. Pretty cool guy as well.

Whoo Hoo!

Boarding my first romantic Sunset Dinner Cruise! Isn't Shaun amazing!?

We had access to the fore and aft deck anytime we wanted while we were cruising.

So excited to be doing this. Always wanted to for years.

The lobster was a bit hard to crack, but still good. Seriously though, does anybody eat the meat that's in the main part of the body? Anything that looked that mushy and a bit green tinted is not going in my mouth.

Handsome fellow isn't he? That's Diamond Head behind him.

And this was the Sunset part. It was perfect.

After church we went to the beach to and took a bunch of fun pictures.

Shaun felt completely at peace.

First Shaun tried it.....

....then I had to try it too. I was laughing so hard I couldn't do it! I'm such a wuss.

Beautiful Isabel

Precious Ian

Isabel's First Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-18T16:34:00.000-04:00

Isabel started her official first day of Kindergarten on August 9th! We had a parent orientation on the 2nd and then half-days on the 4th and 6th, but the following Monday August 9th was her first full day. I am super pleased with her school. They are very top notched about providing the best education for the children that they possibly can. They even were awarded Best Public School of the Year. Part of it is the parents. They really push the parents to be 100% involved in their children's education. I love it!

For the record her teacher's name is Ms. Ino

1st Newtown Ward Campout July 26-30

2010-08-16T12:41:00.000-04:00

Our little family attended an annual Ward Campout at a place called Camp Bellows AFB. It was an week long optional campout where people from our ward could come and go and stay however long they wanted. Shaun luckily was able to get the whole week off so on July 26th to the 30th we had a blast camping and beaching everyday. Our ward is chock full of such fabulous people.

The first four pictures were taken from my facebook, that's why they are so small.

Ian and I running around on the beach.

If Shaun had his way he would be at the beach from sun up to sundown, he loved being out there.

We had a ward event each night. Family skits, Charades, night time crab hunting, and this pic was of Karaoke night.

We also had a paintball session set up on one of the days. This here is our group shot.

I went jogging every morning with a very good friend of mine Trang Lafitaga. On one of the mornings they shut down the road to allow these huge hoover crafts on to the base to load and unload equipment and troops. It was awesome! They let us go up in one that wasn't being used.

Shaun taking Trang's daughter Jazmina out snorkeling.

Ian loved to lay down on the warm sand. Strangely, he is not a big fan of the ocean. Likes to be on the beach more than in the water.

Cute pic of Jazmina

This is a video of Shaun's first fish caught with a spear.

Ian really amazes me. I had to keep from cringing as I watched him, but its just so gross seeing him play with a dead fish! But he was purely fascinated by it.

My fabulous friend Trang.

There were a lot of little kids running around. Here they are all taking a nap together.

Jen Ta'a would give her boy a bath in the tub when it got too hot. I thought it was hilarious!

Just some of the kids and their sea snails.

Now for the paintball. Shaun of course sprained his ankle, which bruised and swelled up for days after.

That's Shaun dead center in the white shirt. You can imagine what Shaun was thinking, about all the rules he had to listen too.

He wasn't too happy about how expensive it was.

Guess how Ian got this mess on his face? All he did was press his face up against the mesh fence surrounding the paintball field. The thing was filthy.

Deuces!

Despite the rules and the money he still had fun.

I forgot, there was also a card game night. The game was called 'Trump'. They taught it to Shaun who told me it was a very complicated game. Notice the hang loose hand sign? People still do that here, everywhere, anytime the want.

We had a lot of fun and cant wait to do it again.

My first King novel

2010-08-14T18:33:00.004-04:00

(I love that my sister Heather blogs about what she is reading so I'm going to as well.)

I just finished this book Bag of Bones last night. Let me tell you, that was the first time a book has ever scared me enough to be curled up against my husband all night, and have nightmares of the story with me and my kids in it. King is a very vivid writer! This was my first King book because in the past I never really gravitated towards that kind of style, but I was at the library here and figured I'd find out just why he is always on the Bestseller's List. I believe I shall continue with his collection and see just how deep this rabbit hole will go.

*his writing is not for the faint of heart. When I said vivid, there are a few parts that make me cringe

'Hearing aids' for Ian

2010-08-13T02:17:00.003-04:00

I can only imagine what he's thinking, but I think it is so sweet how whenever I get the playdough out one of the first things he does is make 'hearing aids like mommy'. He is so precious. I feel so honored and blessed to have this special spirit as my son. He is so incredibly sweet it just melts my heart!

(yes, I did freak out a bit at first. I was worried the playdough would get stuck in his ears)

Our new dog KoKo

2010-08-11T19:30:00.005-04:00

As you've probably notice, its been a very long time since last I blogged. My life kept getting busier and busier. Now that Isabel is in school I have more time on my hand and I can keep up with my blog more.
I'll start off with a post on a recent addition to our family. A new dog named KoKo. We were unable to bring over our other sweet pup 'Sushi', and having a a dog in the home really helped with my hearing loss, especially if I don't hear if someone is at the door. So we looked around and found another that's the same size and all as our other dog, but pitch black. She's still a puppy, only 8 mths, so she is really trying my patience, but still a sweet little thing. The kids of course absolutely love her.

Super Hero Ian now has potty powers!

2010-06-24T20:01:00.003-04:00

Finally found the time to potty train Ian a few weeks ago. He did really well! A few hiccups here and there, but once I got him these super hero undies it was a snap. He loved wearing them and refused to wear anything else. Started running around saying "superhero to the rescue!". He is so adorable, I could just eat him up! By the way the underwears are huge on him. They were the smallest size I could get and they keep falling down unless I pin them up. Such a little skinny guy.

Shaun + Malaysia

2010-06-24T01:06:00.011-04:00

I just got back from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, all bought and paid for by my good buddy Uncle Sam. I won't waste blog space with details about the boring conference I had to attend. It took three days to get there from Hawaii. I flew from Oahu to Japan, then to Singapore, and then finally to Malaysia. I got to visit a bunch of cool temples and whatnot. I took around a few hundred pictures. Here are a few.

Thean Hou Temple near the kings palace. I thought I'd seen it all. How foolish was I. Consider me enlightened. I was nearly transcended but strangely found myself still tethered to this mortal coil. Maybe there are lessons I have yet to learn.

Dang Dude!!!! Makes me want to change religions.

I found myself tired from all of the walking I did. Fortunately these altars had something soft for me to kneel on and relax while looking at them.

Unfortunately for me, I was not born in the year of the dragon. I got stuck with the much less impressive snake. I didn't even want to take a picture of the snake which only stood two feet tall. Lame.

I couldn't find where to put the quarters so I had to pretend that it was moving.

Sweeet!

Batu Caves. This golden statue has only been around for four years.

272 stairs to a cave full of temple stuff.

These were everywhere. I couldn't decide which one to pray to, so I prayed to them all.

I couldn't resist.

The caves kept going with these little shrines scattered throughout.

We heard about this place that had fish that would eat the dead skin off the bottom of peoples feet. I didn't feel much different afterward. Had to try it out though.

Voracious like pirhanas.

Since everything was so cheap, I tried the "Cupping" as well. Said to remove the "toxins" out of my back, It, like the fish feet thing, massages, chiropractors, acupuncture, and anything else like it, are pretty silly. Shoot dang, I could make some real money if told people to smear manure all over their faces and backed it up with words like "removes toxins", "therapeutic", and "balances chi".

From atop Petronas Towers as seen on the movie "Entrapment".

Maybe I could look like this guy if I smoked these.

Japan, Just like I imagined. Didn't have time to go to Tokyo though. My flight to Singapore was leaving soon.

Manoa Falls Hike

2010-06-03T20:25:00.004-04:00

This was our first waterfall hike. There are lots of hikes here that end in a waterfall and we thought we'd start with this one. It started in a very lush jungle part of the island and was just beautiful all through out the hike. We quickly discovered that the next time we go on a hike we need to bring a ton of mosquito repellent. We all got lots of bug bites up and down our legs. The kids loved how the trail would get muddier and muddier, and loved climbing up the rocks and tree roots that sprouted up everywhere. My favorite part was going through the bamboo forest.

Such fabulous fun.

I forgot to mention that there are wild chickens everywhere you go. Never have to worry about a shortage of food here I guess.

Of course, since we were so dirty from the hike and a bit bug sore we all agreed a dip in the ocean was the perfect cure.

Pali Lookout

2010-05-29T03:36:00.002-04:00

We recently checked out a place called Pali Lookout. Its where King Kamehameha battled to unite all the Islands together. He did that by pushing the opposing tribe off the edge of the cliff to fall to their death. Pretty gruesome. Especially the a picture of the event, which was how Shaun found out about the place. One of his coworkers had a big painting of it up on his wall. Shaun of course thought "Awesome! Where is this place?" Thus the excursion to the historical site. I don't know if it is always this windy, but it was pretty intense up there, and of course absolutely beautiful.

This is a compiled video of the trip. A picture of the battle is in there. Towards the end Izzy was crying because the wind was so strong that she was blown off her feet and it scared her so bad because she thought she was going to get blown away. I had just turned the camera on so I didn't get a shot of the wind blowing her off her feet, just only afterwards. Poor sweet little girl.

Homemade Facepaint

2010-05-29T03:22:00.004-04:00

Izzy wanted to try the homemade facepaint recipe. It asked for simple ingredients: corn starch, cold cream, water and food coloring. It came out a bit watery but I think that's because I forgot to measure out the water before I asked Isabel to pour it in. We still had fun with it and it keeps for a while in a container. Only problem is that the food coloring in the paint does leave a faint coloring on your skin even if you wash it off with soap.

Ian didn't like it at first. I don't know why. He just didn't like how it felt I guess.

Izzy wanted a butterfly

After the initial shock Ian wanted me to keep going and this was what he wanted.

I let Izzy and Ian take turns painting my face. All in all I had a lot of fun and I think the kids did too.

Some fun in the sun with my brother Jeremy and sister-in-law Kennan

2010-05-17T02:58:00.004-04:00

My brother and his wife had already made plans to be in Hawaii before we even arrived so it was fabulous to have family here with us so soon from arriving. I was able to pick them up from the airport and give them my first Aloha welcome, complete with a lei, and take them back to our place as our first guest. I so loved having them here! It was fabulous. The next morning I treated them to my famous french toast and then off on a bit of a tour of the island. We started with a visit to a place called The Byodo-In Temple. Pretty cool place. Pictures and videos speak for themselves. Then we drove around up to North Shore and showed them one of our favorite snorkeling sites called Pupukea. After that we stopped for some delicious snow cones on the way home. The pictures are not in order. I didn't have the time to put them on right, sorry.
Thanks Jeremy and Kennan for such a wonderful time. Please come back soon!

This is Ian going "Ahhhhh" while smacking his tummy with how delicious the snow cones were.

Overlooking Pupukea

At Byodo-In Temple touching the turtles that were everywhere.
Lightening incense at the temple.

Burning an incense in hope that my peace offering for wealth and good health will be heard

Part of the Temple grounds You can ring the bell, which is pretty loud but pretty awesome too

Of course Ian had to do it

Inside the Byodo-In Temple.

You need to watch the 5th video down first to understand what happened. Basically there is this little Buddha statue for people to lay down their offerings to receive blessings and Isabel just thought somebody lost their "offering" on the ground and had picked them up and put them in her pocket. I couldn't help laughing at how innocently sweet she is.

Ian and his cute self. Don't know where he gets it from

The delicious snow cones in all their glory!

There will always be at least one of Shaun's documentary under-the-water film.

Look what I found!

Ian rings the bell.

Crossing the bridge over to Byodo-In

Starfish at Pupukea

Unpacking

2010-04-19T04:06:00.001-04:00

It's just never ending! We got our household goods Thursday and still have boxes piled up everywhere. Its a slow process, but will be done soon with more pictures later.

Hawaii Four-O

2010-04-12T02:00:00.003-04:00

After driving for 18 hours straight from Washington to California, we stayed at a hotel the night before our flight to Hawaii. The next day Shaun dropped off the truck to be shipped over and off we went to the airport, a full 4 hours early! We just kind of hanged out a bit, and I managed to put Ian down for a nap in his stroller, and as they finally called out the boarding zones I asked Shaun which seats are we on the plane. He said he didn't know and I pulled out the tickets to check. Imagine my stress when I find out we had no seats, that we weren't checked on yet. I got into a huge line and stood there while everyone else boarded the plane but us. Finally got our tickets but we weren't together. I was pretty frustrated, but it all turned fine because a nice lady and another nice couple volunteered to switch with us so we could be together. We finally arrived in Hawaii late that night and was greeted by Shaun's sponsor who placed gorgeous leis over each of our heads. They smelled fabulous. Our sponsor drove us to our military hotel, that is right on the beach I must add, called Hale Koa. The rooms are your pretty average hotel room, but the facilities were fabulous. They even had a PX downstairs.

Right away we were loving Hawaii. The weather is always beautiful, warm with a breeze, and cool evenings. I've already seen more rainbows than I've seen in my whole life combined. And of course we've been to the beach almost every day!

We kicked back a bit, and then got down to the serious business of processing Shaun in at his new workplace, and finding a new place to live. Shaun's official title is "Command Surgeon Senior Medical NCO (Non Commissioned Officer)". He pretty much is his own boss, in a very laid back environment. He was also told that he'll be traveling with people from work to places like, Guam, American Samoa, Palou, Micronesia, Malaysia, and Saipan. Pretty sweet job!

As to our living situation we jumped onto multiple websites and called a few Real Estate agents. Living spaces are small with a huge price tag. We luckily receive a very nice housing allowance from the military to help with the rent and utilities. After a bit of searching we found an apartment in Aiea, which is west of Honolulu, and just 15 minutes to Ft. Shafter where Shaun works. Its a basement apartment of a house that is a little over 1400 sq.ft. Three bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. SMALL KITCHEN, WITH NO DISHWASHER, but still usable. Our landlords are nice with kids who Isabel just love to play with. Unfortunately I hear them stomping around in their kitchen right above our master bedroom promptly at 7am every morning. Guess I'll never be late dropping Izzy off at school.

We took mostly videos, and some pictures. Its silly, but we can't figure out how to find the pictures on the camera, so there are only videos to show for you all.

Aloha, and Mahalo to everyone! We love and miss you all!

Below are videos that we took at Hanauma Bay.

This video was taken by Shaun underwater! It's his first attempt as a documentary videographer. Pretty sweet isn't it?

Side comment from Shaun: In my defense I plan on getting better with each time I go out.

We're Back!

2010-04-06T19:48:00.002-04:00

Aloha! We finally have internet. We have a new place, which I'll send an email out with the address. We just got our car yesterday, but no truck and nada on our stuff which is locked up in multiple crates somewhere over the ocean. As soon as Shaun figures out how to download our pictures from our new camera I'll post some pictures. So for now just know we are doing okay and loving it.

Still busy, but will post something soon.......

2010-03-26T03:03:00.001-04:00

Its been a bit crazy here in Hawaii. This is the first time we were able to use the internet, because we had to pay a huge fee we weren't too happy about. We will blog and contact everyone as soon as things settle down more. Love you all!

Here is where we're going.....

2010-02-20T08:45:00.002-05:00

Guess!

2010-02-19T09:44:00.003-05:00

Some of you already know so don't give away the secret yet, but who can guess where we are going on our next move?

Hint: It's next door to where Shaun and I went on our Honeymoon.

RITEAID Game Pieces

2010-02-19T09:41:00.002-05:00

This is silly and such wishful thinking, but I'M SO CLOSE! RiteAid has a contest going on, with lots of prizes and I am so close to winning quite a few of them. If you shop at RiteAid ask for a game piece (as many as you can get) and comment on what numbers you have. I'll give you....15% of the prize. ;)

A Recipe for My Sister Rachel

2010-02-15T14:32:00.002-05:00

Baked Peanut Chicken
Serves 4-6 people

2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 can A Taste of Thai Coconut Milk
1 packet A Taste of Thai Peanut Sauce Mix
(use both inner envelope)

1- MAKE Preheat oven to 350F. Add Peanut Sauce Mix (both inner envelopes) and Coconut Milk to a baking dish. Whisk until smooth. Add chicken, dredging both sides of chicken in peanut sauce.

2- BAKE uncovered for 25-30 min. or until done. Spoon extra sauce over rice, potatoes, or pasta.

Smurf Girl

2010-02-06T12:16:00.003-05:00

We were watching Smurfs while eating our grits, toast, and banana smoothie this morning. Shaun and I were talking how cute it would be if we had the kids dress up as Smurfs for Halloween next year. Next thing I know Isabel comes out with this outfit and said "Look, I'm a Smurf!" I helped with her hat, but the rest was all her.

Some Cute Videos

2010-02-06T11:05:00.003-05:00

We watched one of our friend's kids from the ward while she did some errands. They had a blast, but especially the boys. They ran around with the laser guns forever playing war games. I think it's fitting that while the boys were busy destroying each other, the girls were busy building pretty pink castles.

I know I said "prosperity", but I meant to say "posterity"! It's a bit humiliating. Oh well.

An Update

2010-01-21T09:42:00.002-05:00

Shaun finally was able to get through to HRC yesterday, and its not good news. The new system is still down, and she can't process our paperwork till its up and running. She said that won't be for another couple weeks, or worst case scenario, end of February. I guess there is really no rush for us to get out of here. Shaun has the best hours possible and is happy. Izzy will be able to finish her preschool year, and maybe I'll get to see a really good friend of mine baby before we leave. It's also good that we won't have to move in the dead of winter. There's no rush, but still......it sure would be nice to know where we are going.

I love my Izzy

2010-01-16T23:15:00.004-05:00

Last night.

During our bedtime routine of putting the kids to bed.

Mom: Izzy go pick out your bedtime books please.

Isabel: Hold on! Daddy's destroying me!

It's what Izzy calls it when Daddy wrestles around with the kids and plays with them.
Just love that girl.

Crazy Parenting

2010-01-11T19:28:00.005-05:00

I love my boys, but sometimes I worry that I let them get away with too much. Shaun loves to teach the kids to have no fear. As a Mom I'm cringing, but as a person who has climbed a mountain using just the tip of her fingers and toes, loves motorcycle rides, and will someday go skydiving I'm secretly cheering them on. Don't tell the kids though. The last thing they need is more encouragement to be more of the little daredevils they are.

I had this other video of Shaun snapping the towel at the kids while they kept running past him. Its not working for some reason, but Ian, again, is pretty fearless and thinks its hilarious. Silly boy.

JANUARY 18TH!!

2010-01-05T13:51:00.002-05:00

This is it. The tension is building. The stress is mounting. I'm seriously going to go insane with the waiting you have to do in the military.
Shaun called HRC (human resource center) to remind them that we are still here in Georgia, waiting in limbo. He was able to talk to this nice lady who is going to help him out with all that needs to be done. She said that our timing couldn't have been perfect because the program that they use to tell them what positions are available and where is being closed down and they will reboot it with a new program on the 18th with a whole slew of new positions available. She said to call her back on the 18th and she'll do what she can to help us out.
We are hoping to move back to Washington. That's our #1 choice. I asked Shaun if its possible if he could find out when he calls on the 18th if a Germany slot has opened up. He doesn't hold out much hope for that, but it doesn't hurt to try.
So that's just a heads up for those who are interested.
JANUARY 18th!!

Christmas Video

2009-12-26T15:04:00.002-05:00

Just a video of the kids opening their Santa presents.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T17:03:00.006-05:00

Merry Christmas, Ho Ho Ho! Here are the pictures of our Christmas events. It was so fun and relaxing to just have us and the kids opening up presents one by one, but we sorely missed being with everyone. We especially missed the Christmas Morning Scones for breakfast (need to get that recipe from you Michelle!).

This is actually Christmas Eve when we opened up the gifts from Bill and Michelle Elton. The kids are also wearing their fabulous Christmas PJs from Brooke and Peter Elton. Love them! We let the kids wear them as soon as we got them in the mail. I've had to wash them multiple times because Izzy will wear them all day at home.

The kids got these awesome Christmas bags, with books and stuff animals from Grandma Chelle and Grandpa Bill. I've read Ian's book 4 times already because he insists I read it before each nap and bedtime. It's going to be a new tradition. I'm going to have them open up their Christmas bag each C. Eve to find a new book for the year.

Another tradition I think I'll do is making a gingerbread house to put out for Santa instead of cookies and milk. We had a blast putting it together and decorating.

The floppy gingerbread tree that's in front of the house has two bite marks in it from Ian. Whenever he saw that I wasn't looking, he took a bite and quickly put it back. After the second time I caught him from the side of my eye and when I scolded him he just laughed evilly and wasn't apologetic at all! SILLY BOY!

This is Christmas Morning!

First thing first are the stockings! Ian already unwrapped his chocolate Santa.

Now we moved on to the tree. We wanted to open up the presents from family first. These are from Eric and Julie Elton. They sent us these games that (I kid you not) the kids have played over and over and over again all day. Thank you Eric and Julie!

From my Dad and Marilyn a new exciting church video called "Joseph Smith the Prophet" that I can't wait to watch. Also Dad and Marilyn are starting up the ole tradition that my Mamaw and Papaw would do which is send the grandkids a Christmas money card. I love that you added the pictures, Dad and Marilyn. Thank You!

These are from my Mom. She sent us the money to pick something out that the kids would like and we got them these LOUD blaster guns with lights and sound galore that they can keep in their army bags that I made. Notice Ian's bag says "ICE-Man"?
Thank You Mom!

Brooke and Peter Elton sent us these pop up books that are just amazing. Wizard of Oz and Star Wars. The Star Wars has actual light up sabers on the last page, how cool is that!?! Kids have already gone through and opened up every single pop up. Thank you Brooke and Peter!

This is from me to Shaun. I kept thinking that Shaun was missing something. Finally realized what it was...a mask to go with his secret identity "Papi Chunti".

I got jewelry from Shaun. Thank you my sweet husband. My dear sister Rachel sends us nativity ornaments every year. Here are the ones she sent this year. I love getting them. Thank You Rachel!

Grandma and Grandpa Elton got us this book that is written by this author that lives in their own neighborhood. Its even signed by him. Its a BEAUTIFUL book. Thank You Gma and Gpa Elton!

My other dear sister Sarah sent me the best chocolates ever! Along with a card and some serious mulah. Thank You Sarah!

Now on to the presents from Santa Claus.

Ian got spy binoculars, a big huge robot, and more cars. Isabel got a Thumbelina doll that folds into a flower, a Candy bakery, a barbie, and a lite brite.

This was after all the presents have been opened. Ian just went nuts over the robot. Couldn't get enough of it. In fact he went over to his movies and pulled out his 'robot' movie (Zathura) and watched it with his robot and spy binoculars just as you see in the picture. It was priceless.

Family Trip

2009-12-01T09:28:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago Shaun invited two other soldiers and their family to come with us to check out this India Temple that I found in the Southern Living magazine. We made a double trip of it and stopped by Stone Mountain as well.

Look what Shaun and I caught while hunting on the mountain top.
The temple was BEAUTIFUL. All transported marble, and built with no metal using the original building plans from ancient history.

Hummmmm....Shaun!!!

2009-10-12T13:06:00.002-04:00

Shaun was covering up some holes in the wall and left a bucket of wall mud unattended. Ian's internal sensor kicked in and guided him to this little boy's treasure, and was instructed by the boy genes to find out what happens if he puts his hand in the bucket. Luckily I found him before the inner working of his devious mind took him elsewhere with those muddy hands.

"Take me out to the ball game!"

2009-10-12T12:11:00.003-04:00

I've been dying to see an MLB game since I found out there was a team here called the Atlanta Braves. After much convincing (Shaun's not a big fan of watching sports) I secured $6 dollars! tickets to see the last home games of the Atlanta Braves. Deirdre and Andrew Davis came with us to make it even more super fun. It was a blast! Exactly how I expected it to be. The crowds really got into it. They did the wave, they did the tomahawk hand cheer (you bring your hand down in a chopping motion chanting like a Native Indian), and they even had a singer come out and start the "take me out to the ball game" song. One of my favorite was when one of the Atlanta players jumped up and slammed into the outfield wall and CAUGHT the ball! They did a hilarious skit up on the huge screen t.v. because of it. It was a movie clip of Jack Nicholson in the movie "A Few Good Men" yelling at you "You are the wall! Be the wall" or something like that. What else can I say except I had a really REALLY good time.

Cant go to the ball game with out getting the hotdogs and the works. They rob you though! It cost us almost $20 bucks! for Shaun and I to get two hotdogs and a drink. Insane!

It's pretty far away but if you can see it there is a HUGE drum that would start up the crowd to do the wave or the tomahawk cheer. How awesome is that?!

By the way, our team lost. Still went home happy though.

SYDNEY Blocks

2009-10-12T11:45:00.002-04:00

I tried to come up with something original and different for Peter and Brooke's new baby Sydney. I remembered the blocks that my Mamaw made for me when we were little. A whole variety of crocheted blocks. I thought that might be fun to do. I was going to knit them but thought that might take way to long so I sewed them instead. I asked Brooke what the colors were in the nursery so I could match, which is a variety of pink, white, and brown. It was fast and simple to make, except it took me a while to figure out how to do it.

A Good Halloween Read For The Kids

2009-10-08T09:42:00.003-04:00

When I was a kid I came home every day from school quoting the words:

A horrible thing is coming this way,

Creeping closer day by day.

Its eyes are scary

Its tail is hairy

I tell you, Judge, we all better pray!

My dad was baffled and curious as to what I was quoting this from so he talked to my teacher and found out she was reading this book to us called The Judge. He thought it was so cute he asked to borrow it so he could make a copy. I still have my copy 25 years in my own children's collection of books. Thought I'd share it with you all.

Cheers

2009-09-25T11:01:00.002-04:00

My sister-in-law Kennan sent me this quote in response to the email I sent out regarding our situation. It cheered me up immensely and I wanted to spread the cheer even more by posting it for all to read.

"No matter how serious the trial, how deep the distress, how great the affliction, God will never desert us. He never has, and He never will. He cannot do it. It is not in His character. He is an unchangeable being; the same yesterday, the same today, and He will be the same throughout the eternal ages to come. We have found that God. We have made Him our friend, obeying His gospel; and He will stand by us. We may pass through the fiery furnace; we may pass through deep waters but we shall not be consumed nor overwhelmed. We shall emerge from all these trials and difficulties the better and purer for them, if we only trust in our God and Keep His commandments." George Q. Cannon

The love and support from all of you has been like an ointment to my wound that's been festering with discontentment. Thank you.

On my Mind

2009-09-14T11:24:00.004-04:00

Every year at this time I have a few things constantly on my mind and this is one of them: Love love love the Puyallup Fair. So many memories. Since I am clear over here on the East Coast I beg of those who can to please attend for me and blog your favorite things about the fair.
Love the fair food, especially the scones. Never, EVER leave without one. Couldn't find a picture but the taffy comes 2nd as my next favorite. I love it right off the machine, when the clip off a piece, wrap it, and hand it right to you still warm.Also love going through the pavilions and looking at the food arraignments and who won the blue ribbon. Love the Candle maker too, and the hypnotist show, OHH I cant forget to mention getting a free sample of milk and watching the cows getting the udders drained. Love how they started doing flavored milk. Surprisingly I really like the orange cream milk.

And you are never too old to get your face painted. Who doesn't want a butterfly painted on your cheek?

Mine Yours

2009-08-31T16:47:00.003-04:00

I have more pictures, but I am short of time and some are on my phone that I haven't yet downloaded. This is just a few shots of Ian's birthday and one of mine. We invited three of my closest friends and their family to come celebrate Ian's 2nd birthday. He got some fabulous gifts from everyone, and had a fun time at this place called Hollywood Connection that has a indoor fair kind of thing with rides. He got his first race car track set from the movie Cars.

He had Cars plates, napkins, cups, and goodie bags as well as a red car cake made by the mom. The wheels were devils food cake, and the rest was red velvet with cream cheese icing. I forgot to take a picture before I cut it, but there was a front bumper with headlights.

Shaun did awesome this year for my 30th birthday. Took me out on a date to a Sushi Bar, then surprised me with beautiful glass jewelry, an Army Wife hat and t-shirt, and......Rockband 2!!

I am so addicted to Rockband right now. Its totally awesome.
P.S. this post is titled 'Mine, Yours' because Ian is at that stage where he thinks everything his "mine". Somehow we started teasing him, trying to get him to say "yours". So now when ever he wants something, like a toy, he'll say 'mine, yours'. It sounds cuter when you hear it for yourself. I'm not explaining it very well.

Family Photos

2009-08-29T14:29:00.002-04:00

Its that time of year were I bug Shaun about taking the annual family photo. This time I wanted to hire a photographer with my birthday money that I gratefully received. It was so nice and FUN to hire Kim Ence to do our family photos. Even Shaun had a lot of fun doing it. He even said "From now on lets hire a photographer instead of setting up our camera on self timer". I grinned and him and couldn't resist saying "I told you so!".

Check out Kim's website to get a preview of our family photos here.

Hold Your Horses

2009-08-24T13:29:00.002-04:00

My blogging has been pretty lack lately. Been busy. Been tired. Been lazy.
My goal:
post Ian's Birthday Party
post My Birthday Party
post how awesome my kids are

Did I forget anything else? Feel like there is one more thing that I'm missing.....

I do want to do a quick thank you out to all who sent me the birthday cards and called and left me birthday wishes on my phone. I felt so loved! It put a huge grin on my face, and helped erase the gloomy thoughts of how I am now 30, and no longer in my twenties.
Love you all!

1st Day of School/ Ian's Birthday

2009-08-07T11:02:00.003-04:00

Isabel's first day of school was yesterday. I was so excited I couldn't sleep very well. We laid out her clothes the night before, and in the morning I made sure she had oatmeal so it would stick to her ribs and give her plenty of energy. Of course I miscalculated the time frame and we almost were late, but not quite. Shaun and I just love this Pre-K program called Growing Room. It's a little kids paradise. Izzy has a fun classroom with tons of stuff, and her teachers are Ms. Amy and Ms. Janey. Both are such nice ladies. I think this is going to be a fantastic experience for her.
She immediately sat down and just wanted to play and hang out. There were no tears or anguish. I gave her a hug and felt my heart ache at the thought of leaving her and not having my little girl with me during the day anymore. I was pretty sad. Once I got home I couldn't get over how quiet it was. I was able to get all my chores done and more. I missed her, but at the same time it was pretty nice having more time on my hands.Ian's birthday was the same day as Izzy first day of school. We are throwing a big party for him on Saturday, but I thought it would be nice to celebrate the actually day with some ice cream cones and watch one of Ian's favorite movies "Cars".

Happy Birthday my darling Ian!

More of !st Day of School

2009-08-07T09:50:00.002-04:00

Just a little video of her walking to her class. I forgot to mention in the other post that when I picked her up she was upset. I asked her how her first day of school went and she said, "They made me slept!" She was referring to how they do a little quiet naptime during their day and she was upset that she had to lay down and not play. I asked her if she slept and she said no, she just laid there. I couldn't stop laughing. I told her not to worry about it, its good to have quiet time and that you don't have to sleep, she can just think about all the things she did and what she wants to do when quiet time was over.

Wakeboarding

2009-08-02T08:02:00.005-04:00

I have a fabulous dear friend, Deirdre, who wakeboards with her husband on their speed boat. While Shaun was gone back in June, Deirdre would take me out on their boat to learn how to wakeboard for the first time. I have to tell you, it was awesomely fun! Loved it! Can't thank Deirdre and Andrew enough for teaching me. Just recently I finally remembered to bring my camera so we can take some videos. The first video is of me with my third time out on the lake.

Stop the video after 55 seconds. Otherwise it goes on for another 16 minutes. Umm, Deirdre forgot to turn the camera off.

This is one of Shaun. What can I say except my husband is one hot stud. He is pretty awesome isn't he?

Songs to move you to Tears

2009-07-22T11:15:00.002-04:00

I've been practicing the piano everyday recently. I have a new calling as a Relief Society Pianist so I'm trying to keep my playing skills toned. I've been going through all my piano books and playing a variety of music. Today I played my Les Miserables book which my family bought after my dad and stepmom took us to Broadway to see it back when I was a kid. It was one of the best experiences I've had. Incredible affects and heart wrenching songs to tell the story. I never knew what they said till I read the words in the piano book. For those who don't know the story I strongly recommend looking into it. I cried when I watched "A Little Fall of Rain" on YouTube. It's such a sad, SAD, story. Very moving, and humbling to remember all the wars that have been and are going on in our history. They shaped the way our world is now. So much death and blood is shed in the name of freedom.
P.S. Couldn't find out if Les Miserables is ever coming back to tour the U.S. Does anyone have any infomation on that?

Isabel's Gym Pictures

2009-07-10T08:51:00.003-04:00

I've had these for a while but I couldn't find them. I found them as I was pulling out my old photo album of the good ole' days. Isabel had these taken in May at the end of her gymnastic year. Aren't they classic?! I have a few copies if any of the grandparents want them.

2009-07-07T17:21:00.002-04:00

Shaun loves me so much that he bought me my fourth camera since we've been together. In my defense the cameras were not intentionally ruined, its just that sometimes accidents happen. The last camera we had took videos in a format that wasn't acceptable by Blogger. With this new camera you can change the format. So I am excited to finally post videos again on our blog.

This video was just a test run to see if I could upload it to the blog.

4th of July Trip to Savannah, GA

2009-07-06T14:48:00.007-04:00

We took a trip to Savannah for the 4th of July. Saw plenty of fireworks, sun, and sand. The first day we spent at the beach. The second day was spent at the beach as well followed by dinner on River Street in Savannah were the firework show was going to be. Then home sweet home after that. It was fun.

Izzy getting hosed down with sunscreen.
First things first was to check out the water.

It was delightfully warm. Perfect.

Its so fun to play with his hair when it has sunscreen in it.

Surprisingly Ian was the beach baby this time around instead of Isabel. Ian didn't last long in the water and preferred the beach instead while Isabel was out in the waves with Shaun nearly the whole time.

The one time I did get to play with Isabel in the sand I made her a Mermaid.

On our way back to the hotel we saw this Thai place and thought we'd check it out. The best Thai food I have ever eaten, period. Delicious. They were very kid friendly too cause they had all these children books to read while we waited for the food and they gave them these monkey plates as well. Isabel is awesome. Lately she'll try anything we give her. I mean ANYTHING! We asked if she wanted to try a some mussel meat, she said yes and promptly ate it. Didn't spit it out and thought it was good. Crazy girl! This is a picture or her after eating it.

The cute monkey plate to go with the cute little monkey himself.

Family

2nd day at the beach Shaun found a squid floating around along with some other sea animals, but this was the only one I took a picture of.

Down on River Street waiting for our table. It took too long so we didn't end up eating here,

but went further up the street to eat

here at a burger joint.

Its blurry cause its a night shot but the kids were sitting on the dock watching the fireworks.

Saw this on our way home after the fireworks. It's Paula Deen's Lady and Sons restaurant. A bit cool for those who like to watch the Food Network. Which I do when I can and felt pretty cool driving by the place.

Happy 4th of July Everyone!!

Watched it and LOVED IT!

2009-06-23T12:56:00.002-04:00

Never heard of this movie, but saw it as part of the new releases at the Redbox so I thought I'd check it out with the kids. Absolutely loved it!! You all must try it out. The artwork reminds me so much of Eric and his friend Marilee. Again, Loved It!

My time in Utah

2009-06-15T09:21:00.010-04:00

Our camera is malfunctioning. Meaning the button that you use to take the picture broke off so you have to maneuver the tip of your fingernail to get it to click. So after a few frustrating pictures I gave up and just downloaded my dad's and my mom's camera pics. As most of my loyal readers know I have been in Utah for a few weeks, thank you to my mom for making that happen. During the trip I got to share in Autumn's baptism (my niece from my sister Rachel), Liberty's Blessing (also my sister's daughter), and see my brother's new home all while hanging out with my fabulous family.

Ian finally got to play with some man toys, unlike the girly toys we have at home because I just give him Isabel's old toys. Bradyn was so sweet to share his dinosaurs and cars.

My brother Jacob's house that he recently had built, designed by him and his wife. They live in Logan, UT now.
This adorable baby is my brother's new baby Makayla.

Not sure Rachel new a picture was being taken, but this is at her baby Liberty's blessing.

Rachel's three precious girls.

The Olsen Family

Autumn waiting for her turn to be baptism at Veil Crossing.

This is Rachel's 2nd daughter Elizabeth. Isn't she just adorable!?

We have some family names on the board I believe. Not sure, but this is a list of names who did the Veil Crossing.

In Utah

2009-05-31T23:05:00.003-04:00

I'm in Utah for the next two weeks. Will post later if I remember to take pictures while I am here.

Eggman

2009-05-23T12:14:00.003-04:00

Ian has a fascination with eggs. For a while, every time I would open the fridge he would grab the egg carton and beg me for an egg. Well, during a very busy moment in the kitchen I wasn't paying attention and I had the refrigerator door open for a bit. I remembered seeing Ian looking in there, and had a suspicion that he was in possession of the egg carton when I turned around to see he was gone. I thought to myself "I'll go chase him down as soon as I put this away." With Ian, if he knows there is something he shouldn't be doing he'll hide out in the 'blind-spot' part of the porch. So this is what I saw when I found him.
It was quite a hassle cleaning it up, and it didn't smell too good either. Still I think he finally got his egg mania out of his system because he hasn't begged for an egg since. Silly boy.

My strong bearded men.

2009-05-23T12:01:00.003-04:00

How awesome is this picture?! For those who don't know, whenever Shaun has time off from work he will grow his beard out in different shapes. I don't know why, it's just something he likes to do. This look is the Hell's Angel, Harley Davidson, hardcore biker look. It's only a week growth but you could tell how incredible cool he would look if it was thicker. He loves his little girl so much he wanted have her be a part of his awesomeness too. Isn't he gorgeous!?

These boots were made for walking.

2009-05-11T19:17:00.016-04:00

Shaun was able to take two weeks off before he left last Monday for his 7 week E7 course. We spent one week of it camping and touring Graceland and the Mammoth Cave. The first place we camped at was Chewalla Lake, Mississippi. After a 6 hour drive we were glad to find out that this place was gorgeous, with a kids playground, showers, even a sandy beach. Alas, it was too good to be true. While I was in the tent changing into a swimsuit I noticed a few bugs crawling up my legs and my clothes. I wasn't sure, but Shaun confirmed that we were in for a Tick infestation. Let me tell you, I was bugged about having to deal with ticks. Hate 'em. Shaun, being the wonderful husband he is, offered to take us all to a hotel. I knew how much it meant to him for us to camp out so I said no we'll stick it out.

Take notice where Ian is. Now picture this: Sushi(our dog) ran into the water and started swimming around. Ian saw how excited Sushi was and wanted to join her. He kept walking right out into the deep end and was underwater with his eyes open frantically splashing around. I yelled out to Shaun cause he was closer, and pulled him out. I tell you, oh man did that scare the life out of me seeing that.

here he is all wet after the incident.

There was enough time before dark for us to swim for bit. The water was a bit cold, and apparently had some broken glass or something sharp enough for Isabel to get a very deep cut in her big toe. Thank goodness I restocked our First Aid kit before we left home.

The kids loved camping out. Especially Ian! That boy was all over the place exploring, digging, collecting rocks, climbing, everything.

When it was dark there where some crazy looking bugs that I've never seen before that came flocking towards our light. I really do like camping, I just don't like the bugs.

We got some breakfast in before we headed off to Graceland that was only 45 min. away.

Graceland had a setup of five different Museums that you could go through. All with different themes. There was a movie theme, Elvis's Automobile, his airplane, the Mansion, and the army theme. There was so cool stuff, but some weird stuff too. Elvis sure had style.

Loved this pink Cadillac. It said in the museum that Elvis loved to buy cars, but was well known for his generosity because he would end up giving them away to family, friends, even coworkers.

Add a wig and he would be Elvis.

The airplanes were AWESOME! So awesome I completely forgot to take pictures of the inside. The bathrooms had 24 karat gold flake sink! It was all decked out in 60's retro colors, and totally amazing.

At the Mansion. You walk through with headphones as your audio guide. Very informative, and some crazily kooky rooms. No flash allowed inside, so some of the pictures aren't very good.

Front room.

Downstairs T.V. room. Completely yellow, with his signature lighting bolt which means TCB, taking care of business.

This was his gym/racquetball court that the museum turned into an award room.

This suit is one of my favorite because its the same picture as the one tattooed on Shaun's back.

They are both hunks, but my love will always burn for my husband.

In case you didn't get the play on words I used "a hunk a hunk of burning love" song by Elvis as my inspiration.

This was all Izzy's idea to pose like this. She is so adorable.

After Graceland we decided to check out this place called Mud Island. It didn't exist back in the 1800's, but formed over time accumulating enough 'mud' to form the island it is today.

When we got there there was an exact replica of the entire Mississippi River in concrete. We found out later that the whole thing normally has water running through it, but it was being worked on.

Shaun wanted me to put "Dam".

This is me in front of the state I was born in.

Shaun is always making me laugh.

This is Shaun in front of the state he was born in.

Along the replica there would be cities that look like a grid map. This is Memphis, TN and we put the family around Graceland, which is that square by Izzy's hand.

This is Sun Studio, a very famous recording studio. Also where Elvis started.

Its the next morning and we are packing up and on our way to Mammoth Caves, KY. The first night we camped here we figured Ian could sleep in one of our sleeping bags with us, BAD IDEA. He is a roller, so we bought him this Wall-E sleeping bag. Isabel loved it so much we gave Ian her bag and Ian still end up in my sleeping bag. What can you do, but just deal with it. I hardly got any sleep the entire trip.

We arrived at Mammoth Cave Park 5 hours later. Set up at this beautiful campsite, with fabulous anmeties. I didn't take very many pictures during this part of our trip because we dropped our camera and the button to take a picture came off. You can still take pictures, just not very well. This is the following day on our way to the cave to take a tour through the place. Some very fascinating history with the caves. A conninving devious man is part of the history.
Have you ever walked into a cave by means of a concrete doorway? Crazy!

The metal stairs were built by a guy who built submarines, they were pretty cool.

Our Ranger guide was pretty funny. When we came to a big cavern with benches we sat down and listened as he told us the history of the place. Towards the end he turned off the lights so we could get an idea of how dark and scary it was. Ian hid his face in my neck when that happened. Before the Ranger turned back on the lights he said "Raise your hands if you want me to turn the lights back on". I thought that was pretty funny.

We would have more pictures of a place called the Lost Caves, which is an underground river tour, all on a boat! They closed the entrance though when we got there because the rain from the previous night raised the river too high to get a boat in. Shaun was super bummed out. I should mention that our night camping out in Mammoth Cave Park was intense. Towards midnight a fierce lightning and thunder storm rolled over followed by drenching rain. You know how you can count in between the lightening flash and the thunder boom to estimate how far away it is? Well I could only count up to 3, thats how close it was. We woke up to water puddles all around our tent. Instead of staying another night like we planned we packed up and head home. I had a memorable time. Some fun, some intense, but very blessed to have such a wonderful family to share it all with.

By the way, I was stilling pulling ticks off the dog and Isabel only a few days ago.

Taking a Trip

2009-04-28T09:25:00.001-04:00

We are taking off for about 5-6 days to see Graceland, TN and then Mammoth Caves, KY. We'll post pictures when we get back.

Our Easter Event

2009-04-17T21:31:00.005-04:00

First we started with some egg dyeing
It was a marble kit, but it didn't turn out

then Ian wanted to try on Izzy's butterfly wings. He just too cute.

He still is such a boy despite the wings.

Then we went to the Calloway Garden Conservatory to look at all the spring blooms

the petunias aren't in bloom yet, but these baskets hang over a beautiful pond.

Tons of lilys and daffodils

afterwards we took Isabel for a bike ride.

Then we went to the ward Easter Egg Hunt. Shaun helped hide them.

Ian thought the bunny marshmallow peeps were toys and was playing with it the whole time. He licked it a bit then kept playing with it. It was SO ADORABLE!

Getting ready for the egg run. I had to hold Ian back because he could see the eggs but couldn't understand why I wouldn't let him pick them up yet.

my two little Easter egg treasure.

Checking out the hidden goodies in the eggs.

Sadly I was only able to get one blurry picture in on Easter Morning before the camera died. We just got them a few candies, and toys. Then off to Church. When we came home we watched "Barabbas", one of the many Easter movies that was on. My first time watching the movie; it was good.

It was a good Easter.

A good reminder of all that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ did for us.

Marriage Retreat courtesy of the Military

2009-04-04T07:53:00.012-04:00

For a month Shaun was secretly trying to get our name on to a list for a Marriage Retreat to Panama City, FL. He literally jumped through hoops, bent over backwards, walked a tightrope and came home last Friday to say "How would you like to take an all paid vacation to Panama City, FL?!" Yes! Yes! Yes!

The Military Chaplains arrange for these Military Retreat to help soldier's in need of rejuvenating their marriages. Our retreat was three days, two nights at Bay Point Marriott (which was right on the beach), two breakfast, one lunch, one dinner, AND daycare for the children ALL PAID FOR!! All we had to do was listen to the Chaplain on how to better improve our marriage. Shaun and I learned a lot, but we really just loved that we had a vacation for free. At the beach. With lots of sun. It was great.

This is the Marriott's personal boardwalk that leads out to their own private beach with a boat dock and Restaurant.

These cranes were walking everywhere in the shallow water next to the boardwalk.

Ian was always getting to close to the edge. He's a crazy one, that boy.

We were so excited to see the beach we took off running as fast as we could.

My two sweet boys.

Izzy making her sand cake.

Shaun bravely walked out as far as he could to see what there was to see in the water.

All part of the private beach.

This is heading back to the Marriott. That's the Lime Restaurant behind us.

It was a bit cold in the wind, but we are just super excited to be here.

This is the next day on our way to Shell Island. The Marriott offers a free boat ride to the island that's 20 minutes away. It was beautiful and so wonderful to smell the ocean again.

I got new sunglasses for the kids, thank goodness, because it was really bright with the sun reflecting off the water and white sand.

My little sillies.

It was Ian's nap time so he was asleep most the time we were at the beach.

Shell Island is appropriately named because the beach was covered in shells!

She couldn't wait to start digging.

Izzy and I made a beach car!

Back at the Marriott. Shaun fell asleep at Shell Island so he wanted to go exploring one last time. He found tons of hermit crabs of all sizes covering the shallows. He brought some up for the kids, which they promptly tried burying here while he went back out for more.

Our last night we decided to check out the place called Smuggler's Cove. It had a go cart track like I've never seen! It was 3 stories tall with the track itself made out of wood planks. It was awesome. Izzy has finally grown big enough to ride as a passenger, so Shaun was the first to drive out with her next to him. She was terrified of Shaun's driving. As they went under the bridge I was on Izzy was crying and reaching out for me. Shaun desperately tried to get her to calm down, but she more than ready to get out when it was over.

I went next and had a lot of fun. I couldn't stop smiling.

This one and the next picture are of me cruising by.

After the carts we played some games at the arcade for awhile. He was adorable dancing on the DDR pads.

This is our last day in front of the Marriott, just about to take off. Amazing it stayed sunny the entire time we were there, till on the drive home it started to pour down rain. Talk about lucky! Or a huge blessing, whichever way you want to call it.

2nd Attempt At Stone Mountain

2009-03-25T07:52:00.004-04:00

Shaun and I took the kids to Stone Mountain for a second time this last Saturday. We were joined by one of my good friends from church Deirdre Davis and her 10mth boy Ashton. Its been warming up quite considerable, and how better to take advantage of that than to go for a nice hike up a steep stone mountain?

Shaun had Isabel in our backpack (its a little too steep for her, but she did walk down the whole way), Ian was in his sling with me, and Deirdre bought a brand new backpack to put Ashton in. This backpack was pretty awesome, with a sunshade, and a little mirror so you can see your baby without taking the pack off. Unfortunately with the baby, and all the gear it was roughly 30lbs on her back. Her legs were extremely sore by the time we headed home. She was such a trooper.
We stopped midway for a breather, and a snack.

There are these depressions all over the top of Stone Mountain that many people mistakenly take for lightening strikes. According to the park its actually just weak spots in the mountain that eroded away. I'd like to think its lightening, much more exciting.

We made it to the top!

Deirdre and I, with our favorite little boys, in front of the Confederate carving.

We relaxed by the lake to recuperate after the hike.

PAY IT FORWARD!

2009-03-20T14:27:00.006-04:00

If someone needs a little loving to assure them its okay,

you hug and laugh together,

and pay it forward.

How I want to Pay it Forward:

1. Be one of the first 3 bloggers to leave a comment on this post and you will win a handmade item from me!

2. Winners, you must post this challenge on your blog, meaning you will Pay It Forward, creating a handmade gift for the first 3 bloggers who leave a comment on YOUR post about this giveaway.

3. You have 365 days to make/ship your item which can be in any price range. Remember it’s the spirit and the thought that count!

4. When you receive your gift, blog about it and share the appropriate link love. Don't forget to post your winners and your handmade gifts when you're done, too.

*If you are not one of the top 3 commenters on this post, you can still play along. Post it on your blog to start your own Pay It Forward chain and encourage your readers to do the same!

Fun Kid Recipe

2009-03-20T11:50:00.003-04:00

This Goopy Goo recipe is just SO AWESOME!

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose white glue

1 cup water, divided

food coloring

1 tablespoon borax

Blend:

glue and 3/4 water until smooth

Add:

desired amount of food coloring; blend well and set aside

Blend:

remaining water with borax in a small bowl; stir wall

Add:

borax solution to glue mixture; stir until goo begins to form, then remove from bowl. There will be some liquid remaining in the bowl.

Make:

another batch of goo by blending 1/4 cup water with borax in a small bowl

Add:

to the remaining liquid in the first bowl; stir until goo begins to form

STORE: Goo in plastic zipping bags.

I made a batch of goopy goo for Isabel months ago and I still have it. It keeps forever as long as the goo gets put back in the bag when the kids are done. Isabel and Ian play with this stuff for hours! I give them a bunch of my cooking utensils and off they go. Keep in mind that it is very hard to get out if you let it dry on the carpet, clothes, anything really. Even still this stuff is awesome!

Izzy Starts Pre-K!

2009-03-16T17:02:00.002-04:00

I am so excited!! I just signed Isabel up for Preschool today! She starts August 6th, and its free! Pre-K in Georgia is funded by the Georgia Lottery for Education. So Izzy gets to go to school on other people's gambling money.

Her schedule is going to be five days a week, from 8am-2:30pm. What am I going to do with all that time?

The Spectacular Binky Boy!

2009-03-12T20:04:00.004-04:00

Watch this spectacular event of not one but TWO binky's disappear!

Okay, they didn't exactly disappear, but he is pretty spectacular isn't he!?

Warm weather means bubble time!

2009-03-12T19:54:00.002-04:00

For those who aren't in the know, when warm weather finally comes around it's best to be sure you have plenty of bubble solution on hand for the kids. My kids end up on our porch for HOURS playing with the bubbles. I admit I have fun doing it too. It's relaxing.

Another excuse to show off my kids

2009-03-11T00:08:00.002-04:00

This was taken by Deirdre at a playdate at Calloway Gardens. Isn't he just adorable!? Thanks Dre for the picture, I love candid photos.

Getting an 'Egg' start on Easter

2009-03-07T10:37:00.002-05:00

We were at Lowe's getting a new plant for our front room and I saw all of these ceramic eggs that you are supposed to crack open, water, and watch a flower plant grow. I thought it was fabulous, and wanted Izzy to try it out. She dropped it as we were paying for it which put cracks in it that went the wrong way. That is why there is a rubber band around it. So far no plant.

2009-03-07T10:13:00.005-05:00

I am constantly trying new shampoo, make-up, perfume, etc. Every once and a while I'll find a keeper, but nothing to really rave about till now. As you all know I've started jogging everyday, and I am not one of those type who can sit around in your sweat all day (sorry to be gross). So I've been trying different liquid Body Wash soap to see which was the best, and I have a winner!

C.O. Bigelow Mentha Body Vitamin Body Wash!

Absolutely love it! It really makes your skin tingle, and the peppermint smell rejuvenates me after a hard work out. Totally recommend it.

Drinking Chocolate

2009-03-01T10:51:00.002-05:00

Speaking of Hot Chocolate (mentioned in my post before this one) I was watching the Food Network a few days ago and they did a segment on Drinking Chocolate. Apparently its NOT a new concept in Europe, but there is hot cocoa which is a powdered drink and drinking chocolate which is actual chocolate melted down into a drink. Now wouldn't that be something to try! I'll have to try it one of these days.

Its Snowing in Georgia!

2009-03-01T10:30:00.002-05:00

Yesterday it was raining so hard that it was dark midday. It finally cleared up at about 6:00 p.m. Imagine to my surprise when I took the dog out this morning to see slush coming down. I made a mental note to dress myself and the kids warm for church today. As I finished getting everybody ready I noticed that slush had turned to snow and it was coming down fast. Big huge fluffy snowflakes are covering the ground right now as I right this blog. Its amazing and so beautiful to see here in Georgia. Shaun didn't feel comfortable with me driving the kids to church by myself so we stayed in (Shaun had to work) and I made Hot Apple Cider. Its Izzy's and I favorite drink now because I cool it down with some flavored cream, like the kind you put in hot chocolate or coffee. It may sound weird but it turned out really yummy. I can no longer go back to hot chocolate, plus cider has lots of good vitamin C.

2009-02-26T09:41:00.002-05:00

Last week I told Shaun I needed some time to myself and he literally pushed me out the door so he could have the kids all to himself. Sweet husband. So off I went to watch a chick flick all to myself. I thought this movie was so cute! Loved it! Recommend it!

Tag 6th to the 6th

2009-02-25T22:05:00.003-05:00

I got tagged by my sister-in-law Heather. This is what she said to do: go to the pictures folder on your computer, go to the sixth file, go to the sixth picture, post it, then tag 6 people.

This one is mine taken October 2007, in El Paso, TX. Ian was only two months old, the sweet little thing. Izzy is already loving being a sister.

My tags are: Cariss, Mindy, Deirdre, Shannon, Melinda, and you!

Shopping for a Jogging Stroller

2009-02-25T17:41:00.003-05:00

I need opinions! Lots of it! What jogging stroller do you use? Can it fit two kids? How expensive? What do you love about it?

With our tax rebate coming in I wanted to use a small bit of it get a jogging stroller for me since I go almost everyday.

So please, send in those reviews if you have one.

Thanks

2009-02-25T14:59:00.006-05:00

So I'm finally feeling guilt free enough to take a moment and write a quick post. Let's face it, my blogging capabilities, not so good. But I've come to terms with it and realize that what I lack in one area I make up for in others.

Here is whats going on in my little life:

Mommy Playdate

Every Wednesday is a the day I look forward to with much anticipation. I get to pack up the kids and a lunch and meet a whole group of Moms at a different park every week. Love it! I love being with other women and talking about anything that we want while our kids play together. Unfortunately Ian is at the age where he is too old to sit still, and too young to go off by himself so I end up following him around and helping him where ever he goes instead of socializing with the girls. But just being there and not at home makes it all worth it.

Stroller Jogging

Now hear this, I, who gets very discouraged easily, have been jogging these past couple weeks with 3 of the moms from my playgroup. I load up my small Cooper with my huge bike stroller and meet the girls on post at Ft. Benning every Tuesday and Thursday. Friday, Deirdre, one of the moms and a fabulous friend, comes up and jogs with me around the lake by my apartment.

It was tough at first pushing the two kids in a wide stroller, but knowing that the other Moms are right along side me keeps me going. I could never do this by myself, I needed the support and companionship of someone(s) who was feeling the pain right along with me. And trust me there is pain involved. But so worth it! Now if only I can get my sugar craving under control I'd lose the weight I need to get back to my pre-pregnacy size and look great in a swimsuit. Any suggestions on how to kick the craving? I've tried everything: not having any sweets at all in the house, only having a small bit after dinner every night, just going cold turkey, you name it I've done. I have no self control when it comes to cookies, or donuts. I wish I could be hypnotize to hate sugar.

My kids

Isabel and Ian take up the rest of my time. With Shaun gone so much during the week I just try to get by with as little t.v. as possible and more fun and playtime. Most the time I don't do to well. I admit I get grumpy a lot because Shaun is never home and I miss him so darn much. I hate doing this family thing on my own. I am trying really hard to just find a happy place and learn to be a calm and energetic mom. There are lots of other Moms doing the same thing, I know I can do it too. Its just so exhausting and frustrating. Can't seem to find the energy most days. Luckily my playdates and jogging dates keep me sane.

So this goes out to my mommy friends here in Columbus:

Thank You!

I love you all so much and I am so glad we have each other!

Izzy and I are crafting up a storm!

2009-01-24T12:02:00.002-05:00

Izzy and I love this Gooseberry Patch cookbook made especially for kids. I traded one of my own cookbook for this cookbook that my sister Sarah had. I really love the recipes. There are breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, AND craft recipes! Our first one was the French Toast Sticks, then the Super Sweet Play Clay. I have to tell you this recipe was AWESOME! I was really skeptical at first because it was so sticky, but the more I worked the dough with the powdered sugar the better it got. The finished product was this amazingly, silky smooth, moldable, AND edible clay. We of course tried it and it tasted good. Best part, it keeps for a while in an airtight container.