Marina and Andrew's baby shower was a success! Tradionally, showers are for women and so only women are invited. But Marina did ask that Andrew be present to open the gifts with her at both the family showers. She wanted to share the experience with him and avoid having to go over it all again. I enjoyed seeing his reaction to the many baby things. He did a lot to help out at both showers since they were at his house. He fried all the mini corm tortillas for me. We had a tostada/soft taco buffet. There were 3 types of meat toppings, chicken, pork and hamburger meat. The chicken was cooked and shredded. Then it was satueed with onions and spices. I got the pork shoulder at Ralph's where it cooked that morning and shredded easily. My sister Ann made the ground beef topping and it was so good. It was cooked with onions, tomatoes and potatoes and in a tomato sauce. She also brought the beans.Marina's mom made the rice. My sister Terry made the guacamole, sweet cream cheese dip for the strawberries and brought the shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. My cousin Joanie brought the Mexican shredded cheese bags. My sister in law Cindy brought fresh fruit. I got the cake from Ralphs. It was a white cake with fresh strawberries and fresh whipped cream. It had brown whip cream frosting with pink writing. So needless to say, we had lots of great food. The pie pan game was a hit. We did not play the bingo game because only the top card of the deck had words. The rest was blank so I am taking them back. Renee's game was a hit too. Everyone had to fill in a word for each letter that pertained to baby/pregnancy. Andrew and Marina got so many nice gifts. My sisters and dad got together and bought the stroller/infant seat combo and my nephew Michael was nice enought to assemble it.

Sunday we went to church and the messages was great as usual. Monday I stopped at my cousin Joane's work to get my study for women's Bible study. I was so tired when I got home from work that I fell asleep while studying. I sure needed that rest. We have "snacks" before the study began. There was grapes and stawberries, crackers and cheese, pretzels, strawberry lemonade and orange ice tea. It feels good to be back with the women.

I left women's ministry at the end of 2006 to spend more time with my family. Little did I know how busy I would be helping Renee with Eddie and Jazzy and helping to take care of my mom her last 2 years. God new though and I don't regret that time. As I approch my 55th birthday, I realize how much my mom meant to me and how much I miss her. I guess I was hoping she would be here for this turning point in my life, but God called her home and that gives me peace.

I got my prize package from Judy on Monday and Eddie and Renee watched as I opened it up. I have a date to bake cookies with Eddie in the near future. I love my angel and added her to the ones I already have. I brought my coffee mug to work and it brings a smile to my face.

Tuesday was our 36th anniversary and we decided to stay home and relax. After all we already had celebrated at the Mission Inn. We took care of Eddie and Jazzy for a few hours so Renee could take care of some business and she returned with dinner. I did enjoy a long relaxing bath and got to bed early for a change. We will be going out to celebrate mine and Jazzy's birthday and her big party is on Saturday.

The scrap page I made for the baby scrapbook I made.


The beaufiful coffee cup from Judy. Thank you!

August 4, 2010


Today's Sayings: My body is tired, my spirit is content.

whew! another busy weekend. It was great to spend Friday with Tammy of My Hiding Place formerly from Mo, currently in Alabama and soon to be in Nebraska. My cousin Joanie and I drove down Friday and parked the car in the parking struture. We were able to walk to Seashore Village. We had a great lunch at Tequilla Jacks and enjoyed wakling around in the great weather. Tammy and Joanie were thrilled to find The Purple House, a store that has tons of things in purple. Joanie left with a purse. Tammy had just bought one. So I learned something new about Tammy. She likes purple and hummingbirds.

That is the Queen Mary behind us and a cruise ship.
It was quite breezy that day and a bit cool, but great!

Saturday we went to another baby shower for Marina. This was a brunch and the food was great. Each guest got a little bear to take. I also won one a gift card as a prize for one of the games. Afterwards I headed to Walmart were I spent 2 hours shopping for party supplies for Marina's baby shower and Jazzy's birthday party. I have things all over my dining table now and I can hardly wait until it is all gone! Once I get past the next 2 weekends, I can rest. I am suppose to have a girfriend weekend Aug 20-22, but that can change depending when Audrina arrives.

Speaking of prizes, I won Judy's Give Away!!! So many cute gifts that she gives with such a generous heart. I will add the Willow Tree angel to my others. I can hardly wait!

Even though this has not been a hot summer, our grass has not been doing well in certain areas. I am tired of looking at patches and wasting water. So I asked my son to remove a large section of grass near the driveway. I want him him to lay bricks next to the drive way and then we will plant water wise plants in the empty area and fill in with bark. I sure wish I did not have a a bad neck/shoulder/back so I could just do it my self. Hubby is in the same boat as me and is busy helping his parents. So we will see. I can take a before picture but it may be awhile for the after picture.

I am tired. Besides getting ready for 2 parties, Renee is having yard sale so I have been going through things to donate and there is just so much. I had Daniel move a few things around for me too. Tuesday we all went to Chucky Cheese for dinner and to watch Eddie play. Andrew use to work there and trained many kids. Daniel, Marina and several of their friends worked there also. It was nice sharing memories and stay cool. I worked on something for the party while there. Well I better get back to work! Have a great week.

July 27th, 2010


Today's Sayings: Summer moodswing???

The weather has been nice this past week. 80's with a breeze. There has been morning "gloom" near the coast which burns off in the afternoon. It sure keeps things cool. It is cooler today, not yet even in the 70's and it is almost noon. I hope it warms up by Friday because my cousin Joanie and I wil be meeting Tammy from My Hiding Place. She will be here with her husband for a couple of days. The first time I met Tammy, it was just for a couple of hours back in 2003. We will have the whole day this time. She will be in Long Beach so there are lots of things to do. I am so excited!

Marina turned 35 weeks this Sunday. I went to a shower given by her mom. Ours is the 7th, so Audrina, Mema says stay put. Last week I used several coupons to buy things for Marina's baby shower on the 7th. I got baby bingo and will use the baby confetti as the markers. One game I always use is the address card game. Everyone receives an envelope, one per family that they fill our with their address. Then at some poing Marina will pull an envelope from the basket. The winner gets one of the floral arrangements. I leave the cards in the basket and give the whole thing to Marina for her thank you's The basket is the perfect size to keep a few diapers, small wipes and such that I will also keep in there.

I bought yarn and will make little rattle necklaces. Everyone gets one to wear. Can't say baby or cross your legs. The extra yarn will be for the tummy game. I need to get a few more prizes. I think I will buy a couple of Starbuck gifts cards. I am working on my check off list for the food. We will be having a tostada bar with all the works. I need to order the cake and my son Daniel will make it.

Jazmyns party will be the following week at the park. I sure hope we don't have a heat wave that day.Oh well, we will deal with it. Have a nice week. Hugs

July 20th, 2010


Today's Sayings: Summer is in full swing!

It was so hot last week that I did not get much done. Andrew and Marina came over for dinner on Thursday and she was not feeling to well but Audrina was moving all around. Marina had to go the hospital on Friday around 1pm because she was having contractions 4 minutes apart. The dr decided to give her a shot to stop the contractions. She was there until about 6. The contractions were gone by the weekend. She is 34 weeks now so if she can last another 2 weeks, that would be great for Audrina. Marina has 3 showers coming up. One on the 24, 30th and mine on the 7th. So we will see what happens.

Friday evening I had dinner with my friends at my cousin Joanie's and we sat around the pool and talked. We were celebrating Alice's birthday and talking about how we were all in our 30's when we met. Then how we celebrated Alice's 50th five years ago. Time flies in good times and bad! We are planning a weekend get away to my dad's house in Aug but that can change if Audrina comes sooner. We have to be flexible. We plan to scrap while there and my sisters will join us. We had a great time scrapping while on our beach get away.

Renee and I and the babies went to my dad's house and we enjoyed the heated pool. Renee got Eddie a swim jacket and so he was able to jump in and gain confidence in the water. Jazzy enjoyed her little baby turtle float that had a topcover. She would bend to look out from under it and it was so cute. She did not like wearing her hat much. I found a straw hat in my mom's closet that I wore. I have a skin condition that is aggravated by the sun so I have to keep my face covered. The kids and I were slathered in 55 sun block. Renee on the other hand enjoyed sunbathing with her oil. My sisters came over and her son, DIL and grandson. On Sun we went out for dinner and dad toasted to mom because it would have been their 57th anniversary. We then toasted to dad. I plan to go back at the end of the month.

My mind has been on scrapping. I plan to get some pages done of the grandbabies. Renee is so busy with the babies, that I will help her. Next generation of memories!

July 15th, 2010

Today's Sayings: Hot & Muggy!

We are "use" to heat in the summer, but not the humidty. There were a number of fires started by lightening. I have been working on my pictures from the Mission Inn. You will find the link to the right. We have lived in Riverside County for 20 years now and though we walked by the Inn, we never went in. What a treasure in the middle of downtown historic Riverside. My daughter Renee and hubby planned this and found a great price on Expedia.com. We plan to go eat there again.

July 8th, 2010



Today's Sayings: Cool weather ok, earthquakes go away!

We had a really nice 4th and my dad enjoyed his weekend with us. He plans to stay again next month for Jazzy's birthday. Eddie was all excited about fireworks until they started. Then he did not want to see them so I took him back home while Renee and Edward stayed with Jazzy and the rest. Jazzy fell asleep through it. Daniel brought his friend-girl and she is very nice. I hope we see more of her. It was nice to be off work on Monday. Renee and I have been busy working on baby shower invites and Jazzy's first birthday. I was taking a nap and was dreaming when the earthquake woke me up. It was a 5.4 and sharp. We sure have had a lot lately. I think it is time to check our earthquake supplies.

July 4th, 2010

Today's Sayings: Happy 4th of July!!!

My dad is spending the weekend with us and we were busy getting things ready for him. Today Hubby and I bought some new flags to put up. We got several small ones and placed them along our walk way. We will be having dinner at Andrew and Marina later today. Monday we plan to have breakfast together before dad leaves to his sister's house. Renee and I are both busy making invitations for Marina's baby shower and Jazmyn's first birthday party. We got some exciting news today. My dad told me my nephew and his wife are having a boy! Scotty is the only son. My brother is the only son and so was my dad. So a 4th generation Samuel is on his way! Oh, I added the link called Encinitas to the right. Have a safe and happy holiday. Hugs

June 29, 2010

Today's Sayings: Happy Summer

I had a great few days away with my friends. We went to Encinitas, North of San Diego and were 2 blocks away from Moonlight beach. This get away was just what I needed. The Bible says laughter is good medicine and I had a large dose. What's even better is that I could laugh at my self. So we had lunch out each day and dinner at the hotel since we had a little kitchenette. We had planned this get since Christmas and I had wondered if I would be able to go with my mom being sick. Hard to believe that she has been gone a month already. We always go shopping because that is what girls like to do. Joanie and I found a cute "dress" to wear this summer. One day I was shopping at Michael's and I found these really cute stickers that made me think of friendship. One sticker said Friends, another Thick and Thin, another said Golden Girls and Glittzy Girls. It made me think of our frinedship and how we were in our mid 30's when we met and not we are all in our 50's. Yet we are just girls at heart. So I decided I wanted to offer a scrap night. I bought all the things we needed to do a page. On another outing to Michaels I found another cute set of stickers that had to do with friendship and the beach. I got those with my coupons and printed pictures from our get away last summer. So on Friday and Saturday evening we scrapped. my cousin Joanie and I are scrappers, so we helped our friends Alice and Olivia with their pages and they caught on quickly. It was a great time of sharing, snacking and being creative. Though we were at the beach, we really did not play in the water this time since it was cloudy and cool. We did enjoy a walk on the beach were we all collected rocks to take home. I have one on my desk at work. I still have one dated from our first beach trip to san Clemente in 1999. While we were in our room one evening, my dad called to say he and his friend booked a 3 week cruise through the Panama Canal ending in Baltimore Md where they will tour Washington DC Museums. I was so happy to hear this but sad that they decided they did not want any chaperones :) Dad will be staying with me this weekend and luckily I have the spare bedroom for him, formally my scrap room, formally my son Andrew's room. I am working on a webpage for my pictures and will hopefully post it tomorrow. Hugs

June 22, 2010

Today's Sayings: Happy Summer

A week ago my nephew graduated from high school. It was the only graduation my mama missed. Diego was #13 to graduate. So several of us were able to watch him including my dad. Afterwards we took lots of pictures and went out to dinner. On Friday I had dinner with my friends and I talked about my mom's death. My friends went to the service and watched Jazzy so that Renee and Edward did not have to miss any of the service. Makes me think of the song by Dionne Warwick-"Keep smilin', keep shinin' Knowin' you can always count on me, for sure That's what friends are for,For good times and bad times,I'll be on your side forever more,That's what friends are for..."

On Saturday we all met at my sister Terry's for Diego's graduation party. Terry's eldest made barbecoa, chuch steak that is cooked for a long time 8-10 hours and it mixed with seasoning. He got the recipe from my hubby. The meat is then shredded and is so good! He also made beans and rice. My hubby made salsa and my son made gucamole. There was potato salad and lots of fresh fruit. At Diego's request, brownies were servied with ice cream. The weather was great too! We also celebrated belated birthdays and Father's day. It was nice, great weather and great food. We were a bit sad that the matriarch, mom was not there but she was with her Abba and daddy in heaven and that is something to rejoice. My family went back and I spent the night with my dad. In the morning we went for breakfast and my sister's church. Here I am with my dad. All 3 of girls took pics with him too.

After church I went home and relaxed. So not it is Tuesday and I am working on my website, combining my blogs so they are combined into years. instead of months. I have done the same with my homework pages. I am planning on merging my family site with my GOF site so I need to clean things up. It was hard to let go of my adoption site, but hardly anyone has websites now and most graphics can't be placed on social networks because of copyright rules.

I am going away for a few days with my friends on our annual beach get away. I am so looking forward to it. I had hoped to lose a few pounds for this, but with all the stress of the past several months, my eating habits have not been good. Losing my beloved Reina and my beautiful mom in the span of 5 months has been really hard for me and yet, life goes on. Our family will be okay and I need to keep focusing on my blessings. Audrina is due is 10 weeks!!!! Dad is adjusting well and keeping busy. I am so proud of him and my family. Thank you Lord for my family and friends!!!

Today is June 14, 2010



Today's Sayings: Happy Flag Day
and Happy Birthday to my niece Madeline.

I went back to work on the 9th and I have had a hard time focusing. My mind just keeps thinking about my mom and the events of the past few weeks. I know I have been grieving over my mom the past few weeks as I could see her declining. "Grief is a natural response to loss. It’s the emotional suffering you feel when something or someone you love is taken away." With Alzheimers, it is a gradual loss and it was hard to see my vibrant, intellligent, beautiful loving mom slipped away over the past few years. Many people thought it was just her mind that was affected, but since it involved the slow death of the brain, it also included the gradual decline of her physical body. If you could use one word to describe my mom before her illness, it would be Strong Woman. Mom could do it all and so I learned to be just like her, hiding feelings to that I could appear strong. I rarely saw weakness in my mom. So when I went through my depression and all my emotions were assaulting me, I felt like I did not measure up to my mom. Later I was able to see that I was very much like mom. She felt deeply but did not show it. She always kept her self busy. When one is busy, we don't have to feel. But at some point, our emotions do get the best of us. I remember the day I told mom how we were alike and shared the thinks I thought and felt and she smiled because now she knew that I understood her. We could show love, happiness and concern, but it was hard to show when we hurt. It cemented our love for one another. Right now I feel numb and sad. It is hard to focus and my mind is thinking of so many things. I know it is part of the grief process.

Today is June 6,2010


Today's Sayings: A time to rest.

Today is May 31, 2010

Today's Sayings:


Mama passed away on May 28 and is now with our Lord.
I am feeling Thank you everyone for the

I am working on the
photo montage
for the memorial service.

Time to order flowers now.


Today is May 19, 2010

Today's Sayings:
Time to make plans and get pictures together.

I am feeling
The dr says mom has less than 2 months to live.
She is getting weaker and is staying in bed most of the time.

Thank you everyone for the

I am working on the
putting a photo montage together
for the memorial service.

All my shows are winding down now

Tomorrow I will go with dad
to make the funeral arrangements.

Missing Reina.

Thankful for family and friends.



May 12, 2010
Today's Sayings: Lost in Farmville

I have been spending time fixing up my Farm with the Southwest theme. It reminds me of the time we took a family vacation to Colorado. We went by car and got to see a lot of the Arizona desert. I remember the Cliff dwelling in Colorado and the Indian reservations. I remember stopping at Four Corners and eating watermelon. I remember stopping at Meteor Crater. I was about 12 so I am going way back. I guess for now I am just lost in the desert but enjoying the scenry. It helps to keep me at peace when I know I am losing my mom. I did some Bible reading today at my breaks at work. I have been reading from Revelation. Dad called later and said he spoke to the nurse today and he said mom is getting worse. We will talk to the Dr. on Tuesday and I will take that day off work so that my dad can do a few errands the next day. Tomorrow he goes in to get his heart monitor because his heart is acting up again. I am worried because he is becoming forgetful and I hope it is just from stress which is probably causing the heart problems. Well I need to check my laundry now then watch American Idol.

May 9, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy Mother's Day!

We celebrated Mother's Day with my family yesterday. It was full of mixed blessings because we all know that our mom, nana willo probably not be with us next year. After we prayed for Mother's and the meal, Esteban and Jacquelyn announced they were expecting another baby. I know my dad was happy with 3 great grands on the way. Dinner consisted of fried and baked chicken, pasta salad, green salad, fresh corn on the cob, beans and rolls. I fed mom and she though she is not eating much she did enjoy her desert which was angel food cake with fresh stawberries and vanilla ice cream. Eddie thought it was funny that as I was feeding my mom her desert, Andrew was feeding me since my hands were busy. Dad picked roses from his garden and gave it to all the grand daughters.Eddie has become a little fearful of Nana because he sees the changes in her. At the end of the day as we left he did say "Happy Mothers Day Nana, I love you." A lot of pictures were taken with family and mom but I probably will not share many as mom declines. I had gone to bed thinking about my Reina and thought I would display the picture of me and Reina from last Mother's Day. This morning Renee gave me breakfast in bed. Then she gave me my gift that brought me to tears. The picture means so much to me and I hung it on the wall over the wicker table. Reina would wait in her bed under the table so she was close to the door when we came home. Renee says that being a mother has softened her heart and we moms know that is what happens. Seasons change so one minutes we say Mama and then later we say Mom. Somewhere in the past few years I have gone back to calling mom, Mama. The roles have changed now and we as we care for mom, she will always be our Mama.

I had to take the flash off but isn't this great!


Renee and her babies wearing the heart necklace
she got from them. There is a butterly on her dress.


Eddie and his Nina(godmother) at Disneyland
a couple of weeks ago.
Baby Audrina is 24 weeks now!!!


May 4, 2010
Today's Sayings: Changing Seasons again....

The weather has been really nice the past few days and it would be great if it stayed this way, low 80's with a breeze. I really need to get your to walk but I have been so busy both at work and at home. I watched the grand kids yesterday so Renee could walk and then I watched Jazzy today. I have been a bit down today just thiking about my parents. When I was with my dad helping my mom on Sunday, he felt light headed and he thought it was from getting up to quickly. But then on Monday his heart starting beating fast and irregular. He had a triple by pass about 9 years ago and has done well. I think the stress of taking care of mom is taking a toll on him. So he has to really slow down and he is getting more help from my nephews. The hospital bed came in today as it is getting harder to move mom now. I know that God will give us all the strength to endure what will come. It is a comfort knowing I have so many friends praying for us. Tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican holiday that commemorates the country’s victory over the French army during the Battle of Puebla back in 1862. Of course we all know that it is a party day especially in California. I will end with a picture from my Farmville Southwest decor. Hugs

April 28, 2010
Today's Sayings: Feeling like the weather.

This morning it was raining as we left to work. Later the clouds cleared out and the sun came through and then it got windy. That is how my emotions are, like the changing weather. I guess it is just hitting me that my mom is dying. I logically know the process of the end stage Alzheimer's but emotionally it is finally hitting me. The nurse told my sister today that she thought my mom had less than a year to live, something we have already thought. She will be 76 in October.I have to accept that it is out of my control. My faith assures me that she will be in a better place in a new body, no more pain or suffering and that is our hope. I am glad that my family is supportive of each other. Well I need to go and watch Jazzy for a bit. Just sharing makes things better. Please keep us in prayer. Hugs

April 22, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy Earth Day.

Today we are celebrating the 40th anniversary of Earth day. I don't remember what I was doing then when I was 14. But I do remember learning to take care of things from my grandfather who was a gardener. Today he would be called a landscape artist. He taught me how important it was to take care of the things that God created. He had many clients that wanted very elaborate and expensive landcaping and he was good at what he did. In the summer time I would go with him a few days and a week and on certain days we would go to the dump. He would take out the grass and greens and I would explore. I would show him things I found and he would complain that people threw away good things that could have been donated to the poor. I don't know about poor, but a used lunchbox or book seemed like good stuff to me. At times he would let me take things home. When I was in elementary school we use to have paper drives. Grandpa would get tons of paper for us and tie it up in bundles with jute and then pass it out so that we all could show up with our fair share for our class. I think the winning class got icecream. Speaking of icecream, grandpa would always buy us ice cream from the Good Humor ice cream truck. He would buy for the neighborhood kids too and they end up calling him grandpa too. He told us to put our paper and sticks in the trash, and not to throw them on the ground. Since then, I have always set the papers aside and recycled.I miss my grandpa but I do have my memories. Hugs

April 20, 2010
Today's Sayings: A tv show takes me down memory lane.

Tuesdays I watch Jazmyn and she is pretty easy. She took a one hour nap after we played for 30 minutes. after she woke up,I put her in her highchair and gave her a baby cookie as she watched Mickey Clubhouse. She loves her cookies and don't try to take it from her because she will throw a fit! When she was finished, I cleaned her up and played with her in her play area. Then grandpa took over for while I made a simple dinner of tuna sandwiches. We put her in her activity chair while we watched a special on the Smithsonian's Mysteries and some were from the Postal Museum. While watching that she started to whine and I rocked her and hummer her a song and she fell aleep on me again. Once Renee came home I went upstairs and watched tv with Eddie until he had to take a bath. He did not want to go." I want to stay and watch Mickey with Mema" But he left and Jr and I watched Idol. I loved Crystal again and her song. She is unique and special. I kept the tv on and watched Glee. The show was all about Madonna and her music and I really liked her music from the 80's. She had really good dance music and it got me back in shape after having my second baby.
I like the title of the show...Glee. When I was in the 7th grade, I was in Girls Glee. I loved that class. I wasn't the best singer, but the teacher was encouraging and I loved music so I did well. I was looking forward to 8th grade glee only to discover that another class I needed to take would be at the same time as glee. So I gave up a class I loved for a class I needed to keep on track with my educational course. That class was physical science. I needed that class so I could take biology in ninth grade. I liked the physical science and I had the biggest crush on my biology teacher Mr. Early. That class really challenged my beliefs as they discussed evolution. I spent hours trying to figure how things worked out. In the end, my faith one out and kept me grounded while I took evolutionary biology and anthropology in college. I learned a lot, but after 42 years, I can still sing those songs I learned in 7th grade glee. I sang them to my babies and I sing them to my grandbabies and they don't care how I sing the Impossible Dream, or If I had a Hammer. Music lives in the heart forever!

April 19, 2010
Today's Sayings: Shoulder pain again!!!

I stayed home this past weekend with shoulder pain that has flared up again. It is a re occuring problem that normally does well with ibuprofen, but not this time. I went to the drs this morning and she is sending me to physical therapy and acupuncture. I have had that for my neck and it really helped. But I am right handed and this is my right shoulder. When it is bad it shoots down to my wrist and it hurts with anything I do. It bothers me because there is so much I want to do. I am in the middle of reorganizing my scarp stuff. I would like to do something outside but I can't and when I an out there I miss Reina. Renee and Edward went on a picnic to Irvine park and Andrew and I watched the kids. Here is a picture Andrew took. Notice my Simple Woman's Daybook link on t he left. Have a great week. Hugs

"Is this how I do it?"



April 16, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy Birthday Renee!!!


Daniel giving Renee 21 singles.


Renee surprised by her Ipod, a gift from Judy.
Just what she needs now that she is walking.


The red velvet cake that Edward made her.








Balloons and flowers from her dad.



Renee's family. Edward made several scrap book pages
for Renee to add to her scrap book. I will have to take pics.


April 15, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy Birthday!!!

To my mother in law Movita, and tomorrow to my daughter Renee. She turns the big 21. Tonight we are going to dinner at my inlaws. Everyone is taking food. Tomorrow we are going to Islands for dinner. Renee wants to try her first drink and is thinking of a strawberry margarita or dauqori. Is that how you spell it? We don't drink much and Renee is still nursing so we will probably share the drink.

I have been busy reorganizing my craft/scrap items. I am moving it all upstairs and you kow how one things leads to another. I have reorganized my bedroom closet too. Thank God I have sons who can help me move things and my future son in law helps too. Edward made Renee a birthday cake and it is in the refrig as we speak. I am taking the day off work on Friday and I hope to complete my project and get a few things for Renee. I have to go now. Hugs

April 13, 2010
Today's Sayings: Pictures say it all.

This is more fun than that jar food.

Ok so now what?

Wearing my daddy's shoes.

April 11, 2010
Today's Sayings: Relaxing

I am home in bed watching tv and enjoying a maple leaf shape candy I got in Canada. It sure is good, not to sweet but really tasty. Saturday we went to my sister's for her grandson's 2nd birthday. I had a tummy ache and could not enjoy the food. Toward the end of the party we got some great news. My nephew Scotty(Sam) and his wife Cynthia announced that they are expecting a baby in Nov. I am hoping it will be a boy and be named Samuel Scott the 4th. Mom and Dad had left before the announcement so they went over to my parents to tell them. Dad was thrilled. My dad was an only son, my brother is an only son, Scotty is and only son and so you can see why a boy would be cool. But they plan to have 4 kids so if not this time, next time. Scotty works at the same place as my son Andrew and I am sure it will be exciting for them both. Things were a little better this weekend with mom and dad got more rest on Saturday night. I probably will be in Temecula more often now but at least we got the wireless set up. I hope to post pictures in the next few days. Happy Monday! Hugs

April 8, 2010
Today's Sayings: Why am I Blogging????

I think when you do anything, you have to ask yourself why? I guess some things are done because it is the right things to do. Sometimes we do things to please others. Sometimes we do because we have to and sometimes we do things because we want to do it for ourselves. When I first got on the net, it was all so new and I had so much to learn. I learned about graphic artist and how to put pages together. I used Geocities and it took some time to learn html. I found that if you asked, most people were helpful. So I went to a webhome and I remember the excitement of finding graphics and putting pictures together. I enjoyed meeting new friends and sharing things we had in common. Communication was done by leaving a message at a friends Guestbook. I still have the guestbook and comments date back to June of 2000! The big thing was having a custom banner for your site and then exchange banners. Then came blogging and banners gave way to linkies. I think it was Tammy who got me started and that began in July of 2002. Graphic artist were doing great making our webhomes/blogs look special. I have all my blog journals housed at my webhome and I do go back and read things. This is my online journal-diary and it is primarily for me. But I do have to admit, it is nice to get visits. It is nice to have friends to share the ups and downs of life. God created us to be in relationships...one to another, friends. Things are still changing, some use Word press and some use Blogger and sadly, some have left the world of blogging for various reasons. It is one's personal choice to do so. Each persons life has many situations. Some of us work and some don't. I would have to sat that abut 95% of the original bloggers did not work. I have worked forever and so I have always had to make time to blog. I would say that one of my memory highlights was Darylynn's Homework. Her assignments took me down memory lane and I will refer to these pages for my scrapbooks. Because of my blog, I have lots of pictures of my beloved Reina. She was about as old as my website. Now I have my grandbabies. I suspect that someday I will downsize depending on my life situation. When I retire, I will have to make cutbacks. My webhome may eventually have to go but there is always Blogger. Well this is becoming an essay so I am going to end here. Since I am going down memory lane, I will leave you with an old picture. Hugs and blessings to my friends, old and new.

Susan with baby Renee, 1989



April 6, 2010
Today's Sayings: Up and down feelings, crazy weather, quakes!

Saturday morning was our church Easter egg hunt and it was fun to watch Eddie collect eggs. Afterwards we went with Andrew and Marina to Baby's R US and they started their registry. Then we went to eat at Lucille's. The food is so good there and I love the sweet potato frieds. Renee and Edward took the kids to the Santa Ana Zoo. On Sunday, Renee and Edward brought the babies to our bed and we gave them baskets. Then they gave them baskets. We all want to church and I stayed in the baby room with Jazzy and she decided she did not want to sleep. She sure looked cute though trying to look at the other babies around her. After church we headed to Temecula. We stopped at Walgreens in Temecula when the earthquake hit. I hate earthquakes and I don't even remember putting my hand on Jrs arm. I just know I was looking at things move and fall off the top shelf in the isle with the Eater things. It seemed to go on and on and Jr said I was squeezing his arm pretty hard. Turns out it was a 7.2. in Mexico, about a 3 hour drive from where we were at. We were all talking about it at my sister's house were we celebrated Easter. The weather was cool but we still enjoyed ourselves. For the first time we just brought in fast food. Jr. and I stayed overnight at my parents house and woke up to rain. Since it was Monday, we called Verizon and I was able to get my wireless connection set up. I did not get much time on the computer because I was busy with my mom. She is in a wheel chair more now though at times she can walk. We have to do so much more for her and dad will be ordering a hospital bed. He is also going to buy a twin bed and then he will store his queen bed. So on Monday we were able to go out to eat with dad to Sizzlers so he could have a good steak. Flora stayed with mom. Daniel my son came down and he made them dinner. I was pretty sore this morning and it must be from helping mom.

Today I used down time for a bit after my 1 hour drive home. Normally it is not to bad but they had the funeral for the Orange County boy who died in Iraq. I got an hour to relax and then I watched Jzzy from 3:30-6:00. She slept for an hour and then I played with her. She is not pulling to stand. When Eddie and Rene got home, we went outside so Eddie could blow bubbles. Of course he spilled most of it. So I got the hose and I showed him how to hose it down. I "got in the way of the spray" but luckily it was warm because we all got wet. I did miss Reina because she loved to be out and if water was on, she would go after it and bark her head off. Well I will end with a couple of pictures.

Susie, Terry, Ann with Mom (Madeline).


Dad(Sam) with Jazzy


Eddie hunting for Eggs


The new families.

A basket of bibs for baby Audrina.


Me with Jazzy and mom




April 3, 2010
Today's Sayings:Happy Easter

Audrina Chanel in on her way!






I told Eddie I wanted to take a picture of him and




March 26, 2010
Today's Sayings: TGIF!

Another week has gone by and it was pretty nice. I watched Jazzy on Tuesday and Wed. She is a pretty easy baby, but that little miss stubborn trait is starting to emerge. She does not "say " much, but when she is mad, you know it. She reminds me a lot of Renee at that same age. She is back to her old self now. Eddie reminds me of Andrew.He is a talker and ask questions and is very inquisitive. But his activity level reminds me my other son Daniel. The other day Eddie wanted to watch tv with me. I said common Eddie. He said no mema' Eddie boy!" He was telling me to call hi Eddie boy because that is my name for him. He recognizes that too and only wants me to call him that. Tomorrow my home family is going to Disneyland and we are all excited for Eddie. This will be his 3rd visit, but his frist visit where he will know what is going on around him. He knows all the main characters because he loves to watch Disney Clubhouse. We all plan to go early to be there when it opens at 8am. Jr will join us at lunch time. His dad is in the hosptial as they try to find out what is going on with his heart. Last night they were trying to get his fever down. So please keep "Smiley" in prayer. Yesterday I got my FMLA papers indicating I was approved. So now I can use my sick leave to help take care of my mom. I have up to 80 hours. If I need more time, I will have to use my vacation time. Last night I had dinner with my best friends to celebrate a birthday. We were talking about how were were all in our 30's when we met. Now 2 of us will be 55 this summer and are expecting grandbabies in Aug as well. We are planning a get away for this summer which we usually do at least once a year. I am looking forward to it. We always have so much fun when we are together. I hope to post on Sunday or Monday sharing some pics from Disneyland. Hugs

I told Eddie I wanted to take a picture of him and
he said "over here by the rocks Mema."


My Jazzy baby wearing this cute overall outfit I got her.


March 21, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy to be home!

It is always nice to be home relaxing after a busy weekend. It takes about 50 minutes to get to Temecula which is known for its wineries. I stopped at Walgree to get some root touch up and they have discontinued my Revlon touch up. I end up getting something else for now. Then I stopped at the market to buy things to make tacos and sopa. Our family recipe uses ground beef and potatoes. The recipe is at my family site. Terry came over and helped me get things ready. Then my cousin Joanie brought her mom Rosie, who my mom's baby sister. Mom was happy to see her and it was a nice visit. Aunt Rosie fed mom dinner and we had a nice visit. Joanie will come by next month with my aunt and spend the night. Afteward we got mom in bed, Terry and I went to her house to play on out laptops. We slept in this morning and then headed to my parents who live around the corner. My brother and his family came down and my sister Ann brought over food for a bbq. It is really nice to see how the family has come together to be there for mom and dad. Dad gave me FMLA papers that were signed by the Dr. This will allow me to use my sick leave to care for mom. When I got home, I took Eddie for a walk aroun the block. He talks non stop about everything. Jazzy is still not herself. She is really whiney and I suspect Renee is in for a tough night. We have nice weather scheduled through next weekend.

Aunt Rosie and my mom.


March 20, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy Spring!

Hi friends, I am enjoying a cup of coffee before I get ready for my visit to Tememcula. I plan on making my dad tacos for dinner which he is looking forward to. This past Thursday we celebrated Marina's birthday at Olive Garden. Marina is 4 months now and will have an ultrasound at her next visit. Renee is taking Jazzy to the drs today. She has been running a fever and has not been herself. Today she refused her cereals and she just wants to be held. Well I better get going. I leave you with a picture of Marina and Andrew with Eddie in the middle with his new big boy haircut.

March 15, 2010
Today's Sayings:Taking time to recoup....
Hi friends,

Hi friends, another week has gone by and it looks like spring has arrived. I sepnt the weekend with my parents this weekend and my husband went up with me this weekend. He drove and I knitted. I had knit about 4 inhces when I realized I had lost a stich somewhere and had to take the 4 inces out and start over. Oh well at least I caught it. I was working another scarf and I do not remember where I put it. It happened when I went to have my colonoscopy procedure. I was a bit out of it that day. I am sure I will find it. So back to the weekend. We got settled in and then we went to the Mexican food restaurant my dad really likes. For the past couple of years, dad and mom would go our for lunch at one of the many new palces in Temecula. But mom's health has declined since after the NY and it is too hard for dad to take her out. But if other's go, dad has help. So my sister Ann and her husband Ernie joined us. Ann and I sat on either side of mom so we could help her eat. Dad got to enjoy his meal and conversation with the guys. Once we got home, mom took a long nap. Then we set dad up with a Facebook account so he could see what his family is doing. Later we heated up left over and had dinner. Whenever I go and stay at my parents, I sleep in the room that is attached to the study. The previous owners extedned the bedroom into the garage since it was a 3 cr garage. So the actual bedroom is my dad's office. The additional room has a sofa bed, tv, table/lamp reading chair. I am small so I just take the cusions off, add bedding and I sleep just fine. It works out great for me since I can go on the computer and stay up late and not disturb anyone. Only problem is that my dad's computer is slow when it comes to FB games. I will need to get the wireless setup for my own use. Ok, so hubby decided he would sleep in the 2nd bedroom which has a full size bed, knowing that the two of us cannot sleep togther in a full size bed. We need our space. He likes to watch tv so it worked out great. Both of us slept well. The next morning, I started making breakfast, but mom needed me so Jr took over. Dad ened up calling the Hospice exchange and they sent a nurse over to help mom. They gave mom a little morphine which we thought would make her sleepy and relax. Turns out she is like me and had the opposite reaction. So she was walking all around and I was following her. Dad and Jr took off to take care a few errands and brought lunch back. We end up leaving after 5pm. We stopped at a placed called Rosa's tortillas factory amd bought 5 dozen tortillas, rice and beans. We took some to Andrew and Marina. Marina is 16 weeks now. The flour tortillas taste pretty good, warm off the press. They remind me of my grandma Louisa's and they are so good with butter and a bit of salt. I spent time with my grandbabies. Edddie ran over to greet me and gave me a big hugs and asked ofr his grandpa. It always feels good to get home.

March 7, 2010
Today's Sayings: Colonoscopy done!

Wow a whole week has gone by.I had to remember that I could not eat things with corn, beans, nuts and seeds so I would be ready for my colonoscopy. Thursday was my liquid diet/clean out day. The stuff I had to drink was not to bad I had to drin it cold. I don't think I drink that much fluid in a week let alone in a few hours. Let's just say I did not get much sleep that night. I had to get up at 5am to drink the last of the fluid before 6am. My appointment was for 8am. The whole thing went pretty well. After I undressed and made one last trip to the restroom, I got into the bed and they put warm blankets on me. The one thing I did not like was the iv they put in my hand. The staff was great and there were a lot of patients in the GI ward going through various procedures. The dr was very nice, asking me questions in the procedure room. Then I saw the nurse with the needle and they put the breathing thing on my nose. They said to take some deep breaths and after two I don't remember a thing. Then I faintly remember the dr talking to my husband and the nurse telling me to pass gas. I was back in the recovery ward. I don't remember getting changed or the wheel chair ride to the car. I think I remember getting in the car and then I dozed off. I had soup for lunch and then slept for about 6 hours. I woke up Saturday with my back really hurting and wonder if it was because of the procedure. But my lower back had been hurting from carrying the baby. My neck is sore too. I wasn't able to go to Temecula this weekend so I will go next. Mom is getting worse now, unable to feed herself. It is so sad to see, but it is good to see how the family is coming together to help and make mom comfortable and support dad. Enjoy the pics.

Jazmyn having her first cereal at 6 1/2 months


Tummy satisfied, time for a quick bath.


Eddie all boy racing cars.


Here is one of the scarfs I just made.


A rose from my garden. It smells great!


I took this one morning on my way to work. This is a lake
in the city, in a neighborhood community. It was so serene
and I would have loved to stay longer. I think my soul longs
for quiet serene times to enjoy God's beauty.

Have a great week! Hugs



Feb 28, 2010
Today's Sayings: Goodbye Olympics

I really enjoyed watching the Olympics this year. I especially enjoyed the final hockey game giving Canada the gold and USA silver. Cool that the USA won the most medals. I really got to relax this weekend. It rained most of the day on Saturday so half the day I stayed in my jammis with my toy Reina next to me. Eddie will play with her and then give her back to me, even pushing her by my side. He use to ask for Reina after she died and then he would do a choke sound and say Reina all gone. We have chair by the foot of our bed that Reina used to jump on our bed. We put a blanket there so that she had some traction for her jump. Jr took the blanket off tonight to use it and he found a candy tucked away in the corner. We figured she hid that for us. The heart wrenching pain is easing and I can think of her more often withoug tearing up. I will always hold a special place in my heart for her as I do my Missy. I am blessed to have my grandbabies that bring me lots of smiles.I am blessed that I still have my parents for as long as God wills. I am blessed knowing that we will welcome a new grandchild in Aug. Though mom grows weaker and declines, I am thankful that through it all, my family grows stronger. That is a blessing for us. Hugs

Feb 23, 2010
Today's Sayings:Random thoughts of today.

At work I have a picture of hubby and I in Hawaii. It has the ocean, the lush green mountains, blue skies and billowing white clouds. It was such a wonderful week for us. The only downfall was the impending huricane that was headed in. There is a link to the left with tons of pictures from that vacation.Let me know what you think of them. On our last day there,we celebrated my birthday and the birth of our grand daughter Jazmyn. Hard to believe that 6 months has passed since then.

In 6 months our next grandchild will be born to my son and his wife. So many things to get ready for. I will be eligible to retire then. I would love to, but financially we are not ready. But I will keep all options open but it will mostly depend on where I am working at my job. The other factor is my mom who continues to go downhill because of her Alzheimers. It is so hard to watch and I feel bad for my dad. But God gives us strength to go on and our family will be ok. I was so devasted when Reina died, I miss her so much. But the sharp pain in my heart is easing a bit.

I am listening to Amy Grant at the moment. She is one of my favorite singers. She is going to be in concert next month and I would love to go. But though I want to go, I am not. I am learning to cut back on things as I prepare to downsize with my spending in preparation for retirement. I have cut back on buying CDs and really thing about whether it is a want or need. Then there is the matter of the large bill I have from Reina. I make sure I use my coupons when I can.

I joined a book club last year and just bought my final book to complete my obligation. It is called Journey to the Well. It takes the Samaritan women story from the Bible in John 4:3-42. The author created a character called Marah and weaves a story of what might have led to the encounter with Jesus at the well of Jacob. I love historical fiction when it takes the history of the past and brings it to life. The author uses Jewish names and culture to tell a story. I have a figurine and you can see it here: Woman at the Well

Feb 18, 2010
Today's Sayings: Eddie's Sayings!

Eddie's language skills are growing quickly. We really have to watch what we have to say around him. So thanks to uncle, Eddie says "what the heck!" Thent here "ooh that's gross.! He is a real character. He is also learning to pray at meal times and that is really cute. Jazmyn is very quiet and watches everything. She reminds me a lot of Renee. She is on track with pre crawling and sitting up. I love watching my grandchildren grow.

I am almost over my cold but am more tired than usual so I have been napping. I have been working on my Bible study and knitting. I have been busy watching the Olympics along with my regular programs. Thanks goodness for DVR!

So, Survivor is the Heroes verses Villians and some people are on the wrong team. Grey's Anatomy was great! It went back to the early intern days of the chief, and few other drs. It showed the obstacles they went through in the early years and how they learned from it. I have had great Drs at Kasier and I always keep in mind, that Drs are humans just like us. Have a great weekend!

Feb 7, 2010
Today's Sayings: Go Saints!


"Mama, I play with baby Jazmyn, I be soft"
"Hey, this is my new playpen Eddie"


Feb 6, 2010
Today's Sayings: I am OK!!!!

After work we went to Kaiser for my post biopsy visit. We got there early because Jr got off work early. We shared a cup of no sugar caramel macchiato. I knitted and he read the paper while we were waiting. I felt like I was pretty calm but I guess I was a little stressed when the nurse called us in because my blood pressure was elevated. We had to wait in the exam room for awhile because the dr was on the phone. Dr Edwin Burke came in and said "It is good news, there is no cancer!" Then he checked my biospy site and I asked him about all the brusing. He said that is common for the procedure but I did not have any large hematoma. He asked me a few questions. My test showed I have fibrocystic breast which in not cancerous. I may have to give up hormones. The dr said I looked much younger than 54 so that made me smile. I will have another mamogram in 7 months to check the are and then 1 a year after that. As it turned out, Andrew and Marina were having their OB appointment a few floors below. So we all went to Red Lobster for dinner afterwards. Thanks for all your prayers! Thank you friends for your prayers and support! Hugs.

Playtime with daddy before bed time.
Eddi
Eddie riding his bike inside because it is raining again.

Feb 3, 2010
Today's Sayings: Staying calm, and praying.

I am glad I stayed home and relaxed on Tuesday. My cousin Joanie brought me lunch as shared how she had to have the same procedure more than once. We were discussing all the health issues in our family as we enjoyed our indoor picnic. Eddie was happy to see Joanie and Jazmyn had a lot to say to her too. After everyone left, Jazmyn slept in my arms for 2 hours and woke up just before Renee came home. Hubby was nice enough to make me sopa and we will have that today too.

I kept busy at work today and made sure I took my breaks. It was a bit chilly out but I did get to take a small walk and it made me feel better. I still really miss Reina. I was able to get some of her pictures framed and I do plan to make a scrapbook of her. Eddie asked about her yesterday and I told him no more Reina. He said, "Reina sick?" He did see us take her to the vet. I told him she was "all gone" he knows what that means. I asked him if he wanted to hold the toy Reina and he did while he watched Mickey's clubhouse.

Tonight I take the bandage off the biopsy after I shower. Friday we will go to the Drs after work for the results. I read about the procedure I had and what they are looking for. I did not ready further. I will cross that bridge if I have to. Otherwise I will focus on my faith, family and friends.

Meema and Eddie

Meema and Jazzy

Susan and sons Andrew and Daniel

My dad Sam with Jazzy


Feb 1, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy Ground Hogs Day!

I had a great time with my family this weekend. My younger sister Ann hosted a goodbye party for her son Paul. He moved to NY on Sunday. Renee and the babies and I spent the night at my sister Terry's house. Eddie just loved all the attention he got. Today I had to have a biopsy done because the mamogram found a spot. I am really sore now and will take a day off work on Tuesday. I am typing this with one hand. I really have a peace about it and I leave everything in God's hands. I hope to post more pics soon. Eddie is so active. He loves to sing. He ca sing the abc song and a few others. He has learned the sound each letter makes. He can count to 15 and is counting things. He is right on track with the terrible twos. Jazmyn has been trying to scoot and today she did 2 crawling steps. She does not like to be her back, just the opposite of Eddie. Ok need to go take some Tylenol. Hugs

Jan 27, 2010
Today's Sayings: God Bless the USA

We just watched the Presidents state of the Union Address. I never cared for politics but I am more interested now. I know were I stand on some issues and not sure on others. But I do know this, I will pray for the President because he is the leader of our free nation and we need all the prayer we can get. I am more concerned because decisions today will affect my grandkids in the future. I leave you with a few pictures. Hugs

Jan 25, 2010
Today's Sayings: Health Check

I was off work today to have my annual check up. Got all the female things done and I am so sore from the mammogram. I had to go in on a 12 hour fast so after the blood test Iate an oatmeal cookie that Renee made with raisins and walnuts. Well I have gained 5 pounds since July and that is a lot for me. So I need to pick up the exercise and cut out the junk. Losing Reina reminded me that I have to take care of myself because I want to be around to see my grandkids grow up. Saturday Renee and I took the kids to Temecula to visit my parents. We stopped at Toys R Us first because I wanted to get Eddie some Mega Blocks. He had fun playing with them at my parents and they really enjoy the kids. I want to have lots of pictures so when my parents are gone we can show them pictures. Sunday was Sanctity of Life Sunday and the message was good. We saw life size baby models and were able to see the peanut size baby of Marina and Andrew's baby. Here is a picture of the first ultrasound.

Jan 20, 2010
Today's Sayings: Grandchild 3 is on the way!

We actually got the news on Christmas Day, but my son Andrew and my daughter in love(as Tania says it) Marina asked us to stay quiet until today when they got to see the ultrasound of a beating heart! They had a miscarriage over a year ago and so we are all excited. Please pray that everything goes ok. This new baby will be due Aug 29,my birthday month. My grand daughter Jazmyn will be 1 on August 12, my 55th birthday!

I wrote the following at work while on my break. It has been 3 weeks since Reina died and I miss her so much. The pain of her loss has lessened, but so many things make me think of her and I feel there is a void in my life. I know in time this will go away, but for now I have to deal with it. Those who have lost a beloved pet know what I feeeling. I am blessed to have my grandkids living with me and when it is time for them to leave, I know I will have a sense of loss, but I know I can still see them. I also know that my time with my mom is limited and so I make the most of it. There is nothing permanent about this life that is full of constant change. This verse always comes to me from the Bible. Ecclesiastes 3:1.2 says " There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to harvest." The only sure thing I have is my faith that allows me to believe that I will see my loved ones in heaven and that includes my pets.

Dru asked about my job. Well thank God, I am still at the same location. Several things happened that have extended my time here and I take each week as it comes. It would be great to be here until I retire, but I won't count on it. I took everything home when I thought I was leaving. So now I have brought back some pictures and few things I need daily like my coffee cup, spoon and a few other things. Everything can be packed up in a box/bag if I have to leave.

Speaking of leaving, yesterday the weather was crazy, wind, rain, thunder and even a tornado less than 10 miles away. My pants were all wet by the time I reached the car. It was flooded too so my shoes and socks got wet. I got in the ba ck seat and changed my shoes and socks and then climbed to the front seat and turned on the heater to get my pant legs dry. I could only drive about 10 miles an hour because the rain was coming down so hard. By the time I got to my husbands work it was just a light rain and as we left we say a huge rainbow. Today a bigger storm will hit.
Time to watch American Idol. Hugs

Jan 15, 2010
Today's Sayings: Happy Birthday Andrew!
My firstborn son that is now 29!

I can't believe how the days and gone by. I am almost through packing up my Christmas decorations. Did I mention I have a lot??? I had 6 trees decorated. The slimline in the living room where the new Hallmark and favorites go. We can't put them up so everyone chooses some they want to go up on tree decorating day. The I did a few smaller theme trees. One had angels, and crystal. Another one had my Noah's Ark ornament with a few Nativity ones added to it. I had my usual skinny gingerbread tree in the kitchen. Then Daniel wanted a small tree to hand his cooking ornaments. The final small tree and ornament was in the family room and displayed all snowmen. I will have pictures for my annual Christmas Page. Things are behind because of Rein's death. I just had a hard time focusing as I greive the loss of my furbaby. Sometimes I just feel lost. I know it will take time.

Renee and Edward packed their ornaments. Some show signs that baby Eddie had his little hands on them. As I was packing some of them, he was trying to tell me to put them back on the tree. I separated out all the doggie ornaments. I will pack those last. A few need pictures. I actually have wrapping paper that has snowmen cats and dogs on it. I will wrap the lid and have everything ready for the doggie theme tree I plan to do next year. Then Reina's box will go under the tree. She will always be with us.

Saturday we will be celebrating 2 family birthdays. My aunts and my Father in laws. My FIL just finished a year of chemo therapy and he doing much better. Monday we are off work but Jr and I will babysitting so that Renee, Edward and Daniel can do community service through the Disney Community Service program that allows them to earn a ticket to Disneyland. Jr an I did ours already. We each made a complete personaly hygiene bag, including towels and washcloths. He did a man and I did a woman's bag. It was for the OC Rescue Mission. I think when I am retired I will look into doing something for the animal shelter. Well I better go now. I need to work on my Bible study. Have a great weekend!

Jan 9, 2010
Today's Sayings: Music ministers to my heart.

Listening to
There Will Be A Day by Jeremy Camp
While I am Waiting I will serve you by John Waller
Miracle of the Moment by Steven Curtis Chapman
What Faith Can Do by Kutless
He is With You by Mandisa

I am doing better today. On my way to work yesterday, I was listening to Christian radio and certain songs were on that were really ministering to me. It was like God was telling me to hold onto Him, to turn to him and it was almost like He was telling me to let go and let God. It gave me peace. Then when I got home I found a gift waiting for me from Judy. There were 2 picture frames. One said Granchilden and had a picture of Reiy babys that is on her tribute page. The other is a doggie frame with Reina's pillow on it. I was thinking it is time to take Reina out of the bag. Then while rocking my sweet grandaughter, the doorbell rang and Jr brought in another package. I asked him to open it and he read a loving note from Darylynn. Then he opened the box and it was a Willow Tree angel. One that I did not have called the Angel Of Friendship. It was an angel holding a dog. Her thoughtfulness and caring brought me to tears. I am so blessed by so many of you have been there for this time in my life," a time such as this" It is time to set her box up and think about the wonderful memories that will live in my heart. Then Sue sent me an email reminding me of the blessings I have in my life now. And like the song says It is time to let go, there are the miracles of the moment. God is holding my heart with love using family and friends. All our furbabies will be taken care in heaven until we meet again. God bless you my friends. Love and hugs!

"You will find your way if you keep believing"


Jan 5, 2010 Today's Sayings: Taking Time

Thankfully, my boss was understanding about Reina and said I could take a few more days off. I have had a hard time sleeping, but I did better last night. I still have so much Christmas to put away. I just have not been in the mood to do much. I watched Jazmyn for a few hours today and she is such a good baby. I just held her and rocked her and she slept in my arms.
We got Reina's box and paw print today. It came in a pretty bag with a heart attached and her name on it. There was also a angel dog pin. There was an envelope that had her certificate, the Rainbow poem on a lovely rainbow paper and then a poem that says Don't grieve for me. I will add that to the page I am making her. Thanks for the continued prayer. It is the first day that I have not cried though I have teared up. So many things remind me of her. At least I feel like a part of here is back home now and I do find some comfort in that. Eddie has asked about her a few times. We said she is all gone now, she went to doggie heaven. He now tells us, "Reina, all gone, doggie heaven." But the first time he asked for her and we said she was all gone, he said' "I go find Reina ok"
It is good that I am off work Wed. because the Hospice lady is coming over and I can be there with my dad as he signs the papers. Mom is getting worse now. She tires more easily and dad has to do more for her and he needs more help. Please keep us in prayer over this next thing we have to go through.

The "Duck Pond" in Temecula, a beautiful 80 degree January 2nd.

Jan 2, 2010 Today's Sayings: Happy New Year.

First I was to thank so many friends on the net for your kind words about the loss of my beloved Reina. There is such an ache in my heart for her that only time can heal. My husband and I have some of her blankets and toys in our bed. She always slept in bed with us, under the covers and at times with her head on my pillow. Well I will hold on to the good memories. I am really blessed to have my grandkids here and they make me smile. We went to dinner to dinner at my inlaws on NY eve. We took rice, beans and tortillas. Jrs dad had menudo, a Mexican soup. We went out to breakfast on New Yeas day, then came back to watch the Rose Parade. Today we went to Temecula and met my parents and sisters at Pat & Oscars. It was a beautiful sunny, breezy day, around 82 degrees so we were able to eat out in the patio. We went down to the lake afterwards and Eddie loved feeding the ducks. I say many different colors on the ducks and there had to be 300 ducks there. We left there and stopped and Andrew and Marina's. Eddie played Super Mario Cart with his Nino Andrew. Nino is short for Padrino which is godfather in Spanish. I was able to hold and scratch Pepper, a doxie like Reina. It felt good and she enjoyed it. Well I will end with these picture and hope to post more soon. Hugs

Marina singing with the babies but they were mostly laughing.


Eddie is a good big brother and Jazzy loves to see him.


Eddie and Edward playing Guitar Hero together.



Dec 30, 2009 Today's Sayings: I love you my dear Reina, my precious baby.

I can't believe my beloved Reina is gone. She died today in my arms. It happened so quickly and I am glad it did. It was painful for her and she had too many problems with her organs. The vet believes that once we were there for her, she could go. I stayed as strong as I could for her scratching her and talking to her. My kids and daughter in law were there. The vet was nice enough to let us be with her for as long as we were. There will always be what ifs but Dr said we were good parents and she knew she was loved. I am thankful for so many of my netfriend who have wished me well on FaceBook. Writing is helping me and I plan to make a tribute page. Judy is fixing up a few pages for the page. The room we were in has a mural of lots of animals in a meadow with a waterfall and a rainbow. She has gone over the rainblow bridge now and is in doggie heaven. Even my pastor feels that we will be reunited with our loved ones including our pets. Until we meet again my dear Reina.

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Smiles brom Mageguy

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