Hi friends, Last weekend we celebrated Audrina's party weekend. Then this weekend we celebrated Daniel's birthday. We went to Sizzler's for Dinner. Then after we church we went to a taco place by church. Jr and Daniel went home and I went shopping. The weather has been hot and humid and it felt good to be in cold stores. I didn't by anything at either place. But I did at Michael's. I have been in a crafting mood and I have been getting my supplies together. Michael's also had scrapbook paper on sale and I got what I needed for some more Christmas gifts. So I am excited about my projects. Now if I can get away from the computer and get busy!

Last week was busy too being a birthday and Labor Day weekend. On Friday 9/1, my daughter in law drove me to my dad's house after we stopped at her house to pick up party supplies. She was lucky to get a lot of grapes and strawvberry's from her breakfast meeting at work. We got to my dad's around 3 and started decorating for Audrina's party on Saturday. After a few hours we stopped to have dinner. We joined my sister Ann and her husband and his mom at Sizzlers in Murrieta. After dinner, we dropped dad at the house and went back to the market to get a few more things. Marina had to leave the balloons to get blown up. We were surprised to find our there was a nationwide shortage of helium so they charged her a lot to blow up the balloons. Marina and I decided to get our hair done too. She needed a wash and blow dry to straighten her hair. I just had a wash and cut. If we had time, we would have had pedicures too. As we left, I noticed a diner called Jazzy's and made a mental check to try it out. We finished our decorating and Marina left. I stayed up late watching Air Force One on tv with my dad. I got to sleeep into 10am. Andrew and Marina showed up at 10:30 to drop off a few things and then we headed to the child play center. The kids have so much fun playing and the time is for just the party kids. I was able to pick up a few hair ribbons for the girls also. Afterwards we all headed to my dad's for lunch, cake, presents and swimming. Everyone had a nice time. Dad and I had steak tacos for dinner made from the left over from Sizzlers. Terry and I decided to go for an evening swim and then her sons joined up. While we were in the water, my sister got a text saying her grand daughter was in town and she could go see her Sunday morning. They all left and dad and I stayed up to watch South Pacific, enjoying some fruit pops I had picked up the night before.

We both slept in on Sunday and dad wanted to have lunch so we tried Jazzy's. Sunday's menu was "Soulful Sunday" We enjoyed the atmosphere and jazz music. We shared a very moist and tasty meatloaf. Dad chose mash potatoes and I chose sweet potatoes with raisins in it. I ordered a side of collard greens that we also had cornbread. I plan to go back again with my hubby to try the catfish. My sister came over and showed me the pictures of her her grand daughter Ysela. Ysela and her mom live in Northern California where her mom goes to school at UC Berkeley. We went swimming for a few hours and then we went to dinner at Terry's house because her son Sergio was making tostadas with carne asada. While Terry and I were swimming, we talked about her plans to move in with dad. Then we shared those ideas with dad. So we will start getting things ready in October. I slept in on Monday and then my sister Terry and I went shopping for a few things. We met my dad at Hometown Buffet. Terry and I decided to take one last swim. We decided to have Dad's birthday at his house on the 22nd since everyone had a nice time at the party. My dad told me was really happy I spent the weekend with him. He also gave me a box he got in Hawaii. It has 2 turtles on it and I said it was me and him. I am so thankful that I have my dad and I will enjoy our time for as long as the Lord allows. Have a great week!

Playtime at the Child Play Center in Temecula on Sept 2nd.


Food, cupcakes and Swimming at Papa Sams.


Birthday at Disneyland on Sept. 3rd!


Audrina loves Minnie


August 29, 2012
Today's Sayings: Rock N Roll!

Hi friends, Life has been busy for sure. The heat is back along with several earthquakes. They are in the desert, but we can still feel them. Just seems that when it is hot for a long while, things rock. But life goes on and I have been on a roll of activities. I finally got to work on Jazzy's birthday pictures. On Saturday we went to Fallbrook for my nephews wedding reception. They got married in Cancun. We had a really nice time and the hit was the photobooth. We spent the night and the next day we went to my dad's baptism ceremony. It was really nice because it was at "Robles Ranch" in Murrieta. Betty Robles who owns the property lets Calvary Chapel Murrieta use it for special occasions. Betty was also a bridesmaid of my mom. The weather was great and there was a bbq following. On Monday I was able to go to our church to attend the Women's Fellowship. "Crystal Rose" was the special guest. They are a group of women that provide support, prayers and more to women who are going through life threatening circumstances. 3 of the women are cancer survivors. At the end of the presentation, they asked if anyone wanted prayer and I went up. Afterwards we enjoyed fellowship and lots of food. Now I want to get things together to help out the Crystal Rose group. The Women's ministry is also collecting books for a library and I have a lot to donate. There are so many things I want to do. This weekend we will be celebrating Audrina's 2nd birthday so I may be in Temecula for the Labor day weekend. Enjoy your weekend!

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Wedding picture in previous post.


Yummies!


Cousins celebrating.


Dad-Sammy Sandoval getting baptized at Robles Ranch Pond.


Dad with is "kids"


August 22, 2012
Today's Sayings: Time to get back on track!

Hi Friends, it has finally cooled down a bit to the high 80's. My cold is better and I am waiting for my sinuses to get back to normal. My days have been a bit up and down and I am a bit discouraged. I went off my anti depressants meds about 3 months ago. I did it slowly after getting the ok from my dr. I was feeling ok while I was exercising and on my Hawaii "high". But I have noticed that certain things are coming back and I have to decide what I am going to do. First let me explain that depression runs in my family. My grandmother had it, my mom did and several other members do. Previous generations used alcohol to cope, but I decided that I would not go that route. I know the first thing I need to go get back on a regular schedule of eating, taking my every day medications and exercising and getting more sleep. I use to struggle to go to sleep because my brain would not turn off. I would think about several things, worry and figure our how to control the situation. When I went on my meds, I did not have this problem. I have also been more moody and sensitive and irritable. I know the heat is a contributing factor. When I was on the meds, a lot of things did not bother me. The dr said it was because of low serotonin and I just did not have enough to cope with stress. I lived like this for 8 years before going on meds because it got to hard to live. My faith and friends kept me going along with counseling. My counselor asked me to see a dr. My dr did blood work and took a family history. She said that I was suffering with depression and would benefit with medication. She said it did not reduce my faith in God, just enabled my body to work better to handle stress. Counseling helped me deal with past issues and let go of things that "controlled me" So now I have to get back on track. I have to let go of things I have no control of. At times I feel like "running away" As I have gotten older, I long for peace and tranquility. It is hard to find that in a busy house. I know one thing, being honest and open about how I feel is a big step of dealing with it. I was on the net with full blown depression and I kept quiet about it. I have learned that honesty helps and prayers are appreciated.

August 18, 2012
Today's Sayings: Time to rest!

We have been in the 100's all week and it is draining me physically and financially. I have caught a cold that has been going around the house. We have had to run the air conditioner a lot so I know my next electric bill is going to be high, probably close to $400!! So cost are up and funds are going down. I found out that my annuity has adjusted down and so I will get about $400 less a month. I am a bit bummed, but it was higher than I had originally expected. Turns our they had been overpaying me so I have to pay the money they over paid me. Well that is life and I will have to adjust. At least we had a great vacation and I am thankful for that. I sure hope the weather changes soon but it can be hot until October.

I got my website around 1998 through Geocities and so I have a lot of graphics and a few hundred pages. Today I went to my cpanel and pulled up my first blog dated from July 2002. I found lots of errors and I have spent a few hours trying to fix things. It remind me of the old days when I would spend hours working on pages. Then enters Facebook and games and I am addicted to Farmville. The past few days I have noticed that I am spending less time on the games. I think I realize that the days are going by too soon and there are so many thing that have to be done. I want to get my blog years copies to print out and that will take work since entries are done in reverse. Imagine 10 years of journaling to print out. It is hard to do things during the weekdays since I take care of my grand daughter my grandson is here on Monday and Friday.

I planted my plumerias on my birthday and I don't know what will happen since it is so hot outside. My hibiscus is not doing to well. I killed a praying mantis today because it was on my plumeria. I am surprised I even saw it since it blended in so well. I figured it was eating my plumeria leaves. Later I read that they eat insects and so I wish I had not killed it. I think I have small spiders or something so I need to get some sort of insecticide that I can spray on the leaves. I hope I don't kill my plumerias. Well at least my tattoo won't die! Have a great week.

August 14, 2012

Today's Sayings: Enjoyed the celebration weekend!
One thing really nice about Facebook is
all the birthday wishes you get. Easy reminders
and easy to post and brighten a persons special day.

Celebrated out 38th anniversary at Kings Fish House.

We really enjoyed the Lilikoi(passion fruit) Sorbet

I was able to meet up with Tammy from Nebraska.

She treated me to lunch for my birthday.

My sister Terry with her sons in Cancun.


My nephew Sergio married Cindy 8/11/12 in Cancun.


Jazzy and I celebrated our birthdays together 8/12/12

I do not enjoy the HOT weather, over 100 for 9 days now! We usually have a few hot days off and on during the summer through Oct. But lots of days with humidity is not fun. The weather in Long Beach was nice when I was with Tammy. We noticed storm clouds while we were at the beach. Well once I got closer to home, I realized they were over us and it was raining and even hailing in some areas. I was happy to go to Saturday night church where it was nice and cool. After church my friends and I went out to dinner and desert to celebrate my birthday and my cousin Joanie's. We picked a date for all of us to go away for the weekend next month. Then we went shopping at Kohl's since I had a 30% coupon and the store was open until 11 where it was cool! Renee and Edward had originally planned the party for the park near our home. She rented the party area and ordered a balloon jump for the kids. But when the weather forecast 108 for that day, she found another place called Party Kingdom in Chino. The kids had a lot of fun and the first room allowed adults to play too. The food room was all set up for a pizza dinner with fruit and veggies. On a sad note, the Hello Kitty Pops melted on the way to the party so Uncle Daniel went to the market for Hello Kitty cupcakes. We got home in time for the closing ceremonies of the Olympics which were really good. So it was a fun and busy weekend.

August 10, 2012
Go Team USA!
Today's Sayings: Happy 38th Anniversary to my hubby.

Hubby is home today since his days off have changed. But as I write this, we have 2 of the grand kids here with us. We are going out to dinner and since he has to work tomorrow, we will not stay out late. Tomorrow I am meeting my friend Tammy who is here from Nebraska. We will meet in Long Beach which is way more cooler. We will be at 108 today. Afterwards I will meet my family at Saturday church and then have dinner with friends. I am wondering how my sister Terry and family is doing. They are in Cancun for her son's wedding and there is a hurricane out that way. On Sunday my grand daughter Jazzy and I will be celebrating our birthday's. Renee was going to have her party at the park, but has moved it to a Kid Ballon Jump place. We should be back in time to watch the closing ceremonies of the Olympics.

August 5, 2012
Go Team USA!
Today's Sayings: A day to relax.... kind of.

I have been enjoying the olympics. Friday I stayed up late watching and then I slept in until 11am. Saturday night I stayed up until 4m thinking I could sleep in on Sunday since I had gone to church Sat. evening. Well I woke up at 9:30am and I have been dragging all day. So I am determined to get to bed earlier tonight. I have been enjoying the comments at my blog about the Hawaii pages. I know there are a lot of pages, and I understand that some might not be able to read all in one sitting. I did another page about my personal reason for getting a plumeria tattoo and you can find the link below.

Today I went shopping and got a new turbo fan for my side of the bed. I also got the potting soil and lava rock to plant my plumeria stalks. The ones I got in Hawaii are already growing leaves and they have just been sitting in a bowl in the living room. They really are hardy! I hope to plant them this week, maybe tomorrow. It will be in the 100's all week so it will be hot for Jazzy's birthday party which is going to be outside. We will have plenty of ice water and I think we will get some spray bottles of water. Renee has ordered a jumper for the kids and Jazzy has a Hello Kitty Theme. So I got her a few activity books with Hello kitty and a few other things.

If things work out, I hope to meet up with my friend Tammy this Saturday in Long Beach. She is flying in from Nebraska. If it works out, I will post pictures for sure! I wonder how far we will be from the beach? I will have to check it out.

August 1, 2012
Go Team USA!
Today's Sayings:Hawaii on the brain....

Well I am about 99% done with my Hawaii 2012 pages. I plan to add a few more pictures, but over all I am done. So please stop by and let me know what you think. It takes a lot of time to adjust them and resize them and get them in the right order. I was using pictures from both my camera and cell phone. My cell phone was get to real time thanks to GPS. I did not set my new camera to Hawaii time so all the pictures times were off. I used a lot of pictures so the family members that did not go could have a good idea of what we did.

I have been busy taking care of the baby. She will be 2 next month and is really starting to talk, putting 2 and 3 words together now. Jazmyn will be 3 on my birthday and is excited about her Hello Kitty Party. Eddie graduated from his preschool program at the Y and is not in a Kinder program at a church. He is ready for school because he can count to 30 and he knows his abc's and can spell, read simple words. But California moved the start date from Dec 2. to Oct. Eddie turns 5 Nov. 10th. There is a pre-kinder program with the school district and Renee is looking into that. But the church program is all day and the school program is half day. We will see. Meanwhile I have Eddie on Mondays and Fridays and he keeps me busy along with Audrina. This Mema is work out at the end of the day! I have been making time to read again, but not exercise. We have hit the hot days not and in fact, we have humidity too that is not normal for us.


Last Sunday hubby and I went to the Orange County Fair. We were able to attend a discussion on Plumeria trees in the agricultural area. There is always so much food and it is expensive. We sure enjoyed the roasted corn on the cob, $4.50 for one. We shared a tri-tip sandwich and a rice bowl with garlic shrimp from the Hawaiian food truck. I bought a plumeria stalk and Jr got me a windchime that was from an island craft booth. I need to get to Home Depot and get some supplies to plant my plumeria stalks. I got 2 from a neighbor so I have a total of 5 to plant. I hope to do that this weekend. Meanwhile I am learning more about the. The Hawaiian name is Melia. The plumeria was brought to the Pacific Island from New Zealand, Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America.

July 4, 2012
Today's Sayings:

We got home today and though I miss the beauty of Hawaii, it is great to be home. I am working on my pictures now and I will have a webpage to share all of my pictures. But for now I will just mention some of my thoughts and a few highlights of the first week. I am always in awe of how a plane can defy gravity and fly so high in the skies. I was afraid to fly for so long. Then I finally realized that I had to put my complete trust in God. 2. I was in Hawaii 3 years ago with my husband for our 35th and it was very special. This time my dad was with us and he was the main reason we went to Oahu. I am really blessed to still have him and blessed that I have a husband that would not mind him being with us. In fact, it was his idea since he knew my dad wanted to see Pearl Harbor again and they both wanted to see the USS Missouri. We got settled in on June 20th after our 5 1/2 flight. We had dinner at the Shorebird where everyone bbq's there own meat. The rest of the food was on the buffet. On the 21st we went to Pearl Harbor and the Missouri. Then we went to the National Cemetery of the Pacific at the Punch Bowl Crater. Then we toured the downtown area. We got back and decided to eat at Roy's across the street. The food was great! Friday I was picked up by a tour guide and we hiked up to Diamond Head which was on my bucket list. Later we walked to the Royal Hawaiian and took our Outrigger Canoe ride. We enjoyed a pizza on the beach. Dad and hubby went back but I stayed to swim. We had left overs for dinner and planned out next days outing. Saturday we spent the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Sunday we went to the International Market Place to shop. Monday we enjoyed the 10 hour Circle Island Eco Adventure which included a swim at Waimea Falls and a visit to a private Island off of Koalua Ranch. Tuesday we took our rented car out to The Dole Plantation, enjoyed shrimp and shaved ice on the North Shore. We had dinner at Helena's Hawaiin Food. Wed we stopped at the Post office to mail some souvenirs home. We stopped at the Mission Houses downtown before heading to the airport to fly to Maui.

June 14, 2012
Today's Sayings: Making a list, checking it twice......
and Happy Flag Day

Less than 1 week to our Hawaii Vacation!! So am working on my final list. The Yellow Folder, contains all the paperwork I need for our flight, hotel reservations and tours. We used this same folder for our last trip to Hawaii. Yellow is bright and can be easily located in my black backpack that I got in Hawaii, 2009. I made my mailing labels and hubby got me the Hawaiian shirt stamps pictures below.

Packing I have all my dresses and shirts picked out and I am washing things to pack. I tend to overpack, but everything is light. I decided to take a beach towel to use as a blanket on the plane and to use by the water. I am so glad I got the small carry on suitcase that is five 1/2 pounds light. Dad got his handicap sticker and he will have access to a wheelchair at the airport and at the Polynesian Cultural Center involves a lot of walking so even the Dr. said to use it there. There are lots of pictures at the link below listed Hawaii 2009.

Camera capersI have always owned a Cannon camera. The one I liked the best I used in New York and Hawaii. While I was getting out of the car in Hawaii, I dropped the camera and it hit the pavement. It ruined the zoom control and would not close right. So while in Hawaii, we found a Walmart and I picked another Cannon. I chose it because it was pink and compact. I liked my previous camera way better. Okay, so I got the Nikon and it was bigger than what I was use to. I took to the wedding practice and it would not work. So I took it back to Walmart. Then I checked the Samys Camera site and there was two I liked and I chose the one with the 20 optical zoom though I liked the way the other one looked. I chose the first one though it was more money and hubby picked it up for me. Well my advice to anyone is to purchase at the store, not online. A camera can have lost of cool features, but if it does not feel right and operate easily, forget it. So I called the store and they said to bring it back in. I told them the one I want and the manager said they were getting more in Friday. So I will call Friday and go in on Saturday to get it. I want the red one and I hope they come in because time is running out.

Today is Flag day and my niece's birthday. She gets married on Monday and my grand daughter is one of the flower girls. So I need to get busy. Bye for now. Hugs

June 7, 2012
Today's Sayings: Planning and Preparing.

Hi Friends, the days are going by so fast and our trip to Hawaii will be here soon. Dad is doing better. He saw his Dr. again and the Dr. gave him the OK for the vacation. He also signed a temporary handicap form so that we could make traveling easier. The Dr has been to Hawaii and so he told dad to pace himself and have fun. Dad and Jr will not go the snorkel excursion after all, but other than that, dad should be able to do the rest.

Yesterday I went shopping at Wal-Mart and got a 5.5 pound carry on suitcase that I will use for my pillow and reading material and then for souvenirs on the way back. I got one for my dad too since he wants to take his laptop. I will also have a small backpack I got the last time I was in Hawaii. I will use it as my purse. Hubby is taking a backpack for snacks and his travel pillow and a small thin blanket for the plane. So now we are doing the pre-packing. I also went to Kohls with my 30% coupon and got hubby 2 cargo shorts and a tshirt. I got a dress the other day for the wedding. We will be gone 12 days this time instead of 7 like last time so I need to make sure I have what I need.

I have booked some more things to do. In a way it is my peronal bucket list. I will be going on a sunrise hike to Diamond Head It starts at 6:00am and I am thinking the pickup at the hotel will be earlier. THe guide picks you up at your hotel. Once we reach the parking area at Diamond Head, we will get backpacks with water, flashlights, binocculars and we get a walking stick. I am glad I am doing it this way since my hubby will not be going. I have been walking at the park and around the neighborhood which is up and down hills. My legs are doing well and I am not getting winded like I was when I frist started walking. I have lost the 5 pounds I wanted, mostly in the midriff and rear. I will have to remember to take motrin at breakfast for my problem areas. Later in the day we will be going on an outrigger canoe. According to the site, Waikiki is the only place that does these rides for the public from 9-3:30 everyday of the week as long as the weather is ok. The last time we were there, hurricane Felicia was coming our way and we saw sandbags being distributed in vatious places. Luckily is downgraded to a tropical storm and it came in as we were leaving for home. I have already started working on my web pages to share the pictures. There is a link below for the 2009 trip to Hawaii.

I am working on a list of things I have to do before we leave. I got a new flash drive to downlaod the 3000 pics on my IPhone. I plan to use my new camera this weekend at the rehearsal dinner for the wedding. I like to send postcards so I need to get my address labels and you can see a picture of the new post card stamps that came out this year.

May 30, 2012

Today's Sayings: The Family heart is strong.
Happy Birthday to my niece Ysela who is one today,
and my brother and his son for tomorrow.

This weekend our family got together for a family bridal shower. It was really nice to get together. Hubby and I spent the night at my sister's and we all met for brunch the next day. I noticed dad was not eating because his heart was not beating regular. I told him to call the Dr first thing Tuesday morning. He end up calling my brother in law at 2am because his whole body ached. Turns out dad had been doubling up on his heart medicine he takes when his heart beats to quickly. So by the time he got to emergency, his heart was down to 40. Once they gave him oxygen, he started feeling better. My brother and I went to see him Tuesday evening and he looked a lot better. His regular Dr could not come so his assiciate came and told dad he needed a pace maker and my dad basically said he was not ready for it. We wrote down a long list of questions for the Dr. It is almost 24 hours later and we haven't heard anything yet from the Dr. He is a busy heart surgeon. So now we wait to see if dad can still go and if he can, what his limitations will be. We already took the snorkeling excursion off the list. My hubby said he would stay with my dad since it is a 5 hour adventure.
An arrhythmia (ah-RITH-me-ah) is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. During an arrhythmia, the heart can beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm. National Health-Heart While I was in Temecula on Monday with my sister, we did a little shopping and Terry got a couple of summer dresses for Hawaii and we got a carry on luggage for my dad's computer. If he does not use it, I will keep it. My dad has a new computer and though it is the same size as mine, it is lighter than mine. So we will see. He said if he does not go, I can still take it. But I am leaning on not taking it. I do have a new camera that I have to get ready. I also have to clear out the 3000 pics I have on my Iphone to make room for more pics. I need to get some underwater cameras too. I hope to have an update soon.

May 25, 2012
Today's Sayings: I am a bit distracted.

My right arm has been hurting me for a few months now and it getting worse. It is distracting and discouraging. My dr said I had tendonitis or tennis elbow. I suspect that it is from a combination of playing on the computer and taking care of the baby. It really bums me because there is so much I have to do over the next few weeks. I still try to manage my housework but the hardest is the floors. I told my hubby I was going to have them professionally cleaned and sealed after we get back from vacation. I will probably have to really cut back on my FV farms. I mostly just work on the Hawaii farms.

I have not exercised much this week. I have also craved more carbs and I bummed about that. I have lost 5 pounds, but I am at a setback. I have been off my anti depressants for 2 months now and I suspect that some of my problems, like not sleeping well, increased pain and and overall blahs is from being on my meds. I have had a hard time foucsing too but that could just be that I am busy and not sleeping well. My Dr advised for me not to go off them because she says I live with a number of stress factors and this pain causes a cycle of stress, pain and on. I tried working out with hand weights to firm my arms, but I can't do it with the right arm. For years it was my shoulder and now my shoulder is feeling better. I really need to get back on track because exercise is good for the mood. I may have to go back on the lowest dosage of my meds. Did I mention depression runs in my family going back 4 generations.

This is the first weekend of back to back parties. Saturday is the grad party and Sunday is the family wedding shower. I am making layered green chili and chicken enchiladas. My sister asked me to make these with flour tortillas so I need to get some low carb ones. It will be nice to spend the night at my sisters and come home on Monday which is a holiday. It will be nice when my hubby retires and we have more time together except for the days he goes to his parents. Hubby also said he could help me with the floor more too.

This past weekend we went to Disney's California Adventure and we had a really nice time The weather was perfect and we chose to go on the rapids ride while there was time to dry off which was good since I got drenched! I really enjoyed the World of Color, a water, light and music show. I am going to put some pictures together but here is one for now. I found a free photo editing place called Pic Monkey and this is my first attempt with it. I really like it and plan to use it more often. I am working on a new blog layout too. Got to keep this mind active! Oh and I got a new camera so I need to get better to use it because it is heavier. There is a cute page on Adult ADD listed at the featured links listed below. Have a great memorial day weekend!

May 10, 2012
Today's Sayings: Springing into adventures...

On May 6, our baby hummingbirds flew the nest. They barely fit in the nest. I could see them stretching and flapping their wings as they prepared to take flight. I could see the mom flying in even on the last day they were there which was Cinco De Mayo. Now we can move the shell wind chime. The other birds left awhile ago and another bird is nesting there now. Someday my final to kids will leave the nest officially. Luckily our house is big enough, but if we have to downsize in the future, things will have to change. In my day, we all were married by or before age 20 and my parents were empty nesters while they were still in their late 40's. Times are different now and more kids stay longer with their parents. I enjoy having my grandkids around, but I do miss quiet and a clean house. Audrina is a whirlwind now, leaving a trail as she goes. She is daring too and talking and babbling up a storm. Go, ok, oopsie, shoes, side(outside)more(with the hand sign) Today we took a walk and I showed her stop and go and she laughed when I said stop, but she stopped. I wanted to spend more time with my grand kids than my mom did and I am getting that time for sure because I am retired. My mom was always busy working in real estate. When she was with her grand kids, she was good with them. So I will enjoy the adventures of my grandkids and be thankful that I can.

Lots of things happening in my family. My nephew Esteban got a principal position. He and his wife are getting a bigger house, closer to my sister Ann. She is happy that her grands will be closer to her. My nephew Michael graduated from Cal State San Bernardino. My nephew Sergio is graduating from Cal State San Marcos, and his fiance is graduating too with her RN. They are getting married on Aug. 11 in Cancun. My niece Madeline is getting married on June 18, and my grand daughter Jazzy is a flower girl. Madeline was going to get married on Maui, and that is why we end up going to Maui this summer. Things changed a bit so they are getting married here and we are all still taking our vacations in Hawaii. Andrew and Marina are going to Missouri next week and Audrina will be with me and her other grandma. Renee is checking into medical assistant programs to get her foot in the door, and hopes to get a nursing degree. Another niece on Jr's side is graduating and going to my alma mater, UCI. So you can see that this spring is moving along with graduation parties, showers and weddings.

We will finalize our final excursions for Maui by the end of the month. Time is going fast now and I have a few more pounds to lose. I have lost about 4 pounds, but more important, is getting fit to be able to really enjoy the things I want to do in Hawaii like snorkel and climb to the top of Diamond Head. I walked 2 miles yesterday and a lot of it was up and downhill. It felt good, but I was tired today, but not sore. If I am not back soon, I want to wish you a very Happy Mother's Day!

April 30, 2012
Today's Sayings: Baskets and Bins on my!

Hi friends, I hope you had a nice weekend like I did. On Friday I went to a Women's conference in our city. It was hosted at the biggest church and 5 other churches in our city, including our took part in it. I bought 10 raffle tickets and put them in the bags next to the items I liked. One basket had a bookmark I liked so I chose that. They had you put your name and phone number on the tickets. At the end they sent a text message if you were a winner. My friend Alice looked at our phones and found we had both won a basket. What pleasant surprise.

Saturday I unpacked my summer clothes bins and packed the last of my winter clothes. I have a lot to choose from for our Hawaii trip. Jr and I went to Polly's before church. We looked at a map of Hawaii while we ate. I downloaded a an app that has the bus schedule of Oahu. After church we went to Walmart to get a few things. Sunday was a nice day too. We slept in and then I enjoyed a long shower. Renee, Edward and the kids had left to church and then we all met up at Good Fellas along with my dad. Before leaving, I picked a plumeria flower from the tree outside the restaurant. I love the way the flower smells! I told my husband I was going to get a tatoo of a plumeria flower on my ankle and he just laughted. After we ate, my dad came over and we talked about Hawaii. Dad likes sailing but does not want the sub tour. He had to spend time in one while in the reserves and he did not like it. I need to find a picture of him in his Navy outfit. Dad also talked about finalizing his funeral plans. Not that he plans to go yet, but he wants to be ready. He will be 79 in Sept.

My laptop has been giving me problems so I have been saving my graphics to a flash drive. I use to have so much fun making my webpages, finding the right graphics to go with a poem or topic. I am one of the last remaining websites using original country graphics. I think I have my domain for one more year. I never thought I was creative, but I learned I was when I use to do the Women's newsletter for our church and I was working on my web pages at the same time. I think that is why I like my Farmville game on Facebook. I get to decorate and organize my farm. I especially like the Hawaii Farm since we are going in June. They have music to play in the background.

April 20, 2012

I finally got a chance to update my blog today and all was ok as I opened up my cpanel and opened up my html blog page. Then it was acting up. The cursor went straight to the bottom and then went in reverse order as it went up the page. When I tried to move the cursor to the top, it went straight back to the bottom and started the reverse scroll, letter by letter. Then I thought of what I read at Darylynn's and then I wondered if it was a virus. I am currently typing this on a text document so I at least get a journal entry in. I will try again. I have been spending a lot of time looking at information on Hawaii. We are using the same tour company that we used last time- Discovery Hawaii Tours. We have scheduled an Eco Circle Island tour and the Pearl Harbor/Big Mo/Punchbowl Cemetary/Downtown Tour. My dad booked the Polynesian Cultural Center and I think he got the best package they offer. We get there on a Wednesday but don't get our rent a car until Sunday. We are in Waikiki and can get around by walking or using local buses. We want to try things that we did not get to last time we were there not counting the tours. We are doing those for my dad since he had not been to Hawaii since the 80's. We will be gone for over 2 weeks and I know I will miss the babies, but we really need this vacation. Renee and Daniel will probably enjoy having the house to themselves but I am sure the grandbabies will miss us.

I am doing better with my eating and getting some exercise in. I think I lost 2 pounds and I can feel the difference in a pair of pants that were more snug a couple of weeks ago. I know the time will be here before I know it. I think I mentioned that my sister Terry passed her state exams to be a marriage and family counselor. She had a big party when she got her masters. But the state requires a tons of hours as an intern, then 2 test. I am so proud of her. I called her last night and told her I was getting a bathing suit from JC Penney and for her to pick one out for herself. Of course she didn't want to, but I told her it was a congratulatory gift. Plus we were small sizes and they run out of them sooner. Just a couple of petite 50 something women of want to have fun.

On Monday, my dad brought over a Yolanda from Spain. She is here visiting her daughter who lives in San Francisco. Yolanda's son was an exchange student that lived with Terry in the 90's Terry's son Sergio was able to go spend a few weeks with Yolanda and her family in Spain. Terry and Yolanda have become friends over the years and Terry was able to visit Yolanda in San Francisco a couple of years ago. So Yolanda was here for a few days and dad brought her over our hours before heading to OC to meet up with my brother and his wife. They had dinner at Downtown Disney in Anaheim. Terry took her to a few wineries in Temecula and dad took her to Pechanga and Old Town Temecula. They took her to San Diego on Wednesday before she flew out to San Francisco. She has invited all of us to come and visit if we ever get a chance to go to Spain. When Terry and Dad and my brother and wife went on their cruise to Italy, Yolanda spent two days showing them Barcelona. I don't have a big desire to go anywhere outside the USA at this point in time. I would like to g back east to Washington DC, and NY so hubby and I are talking about it for the future. We will see what the future holds.

April 14, 2012
Today's Sayings: Winter weather blows in.

I am listening to the wind blow and the heater running. Spring showers, spring storm, you name it we had it today. Thunder, hail, heavy rain, sun peeking in and more rain. So I did not take the baby on a walk today. I hope to get my walk in or a workout. My friend Tammy told me about My Fitness Pal. It helps you keep track of what you are eating and your exercise. I put in my beginning weight, and how much I wanted to lose and it figured I needed to eat 1200 calories a day and do moderate exercise to get to 112 by June 20th. My start weight is 118 and I took measurements too. Renee and I worked out on Wed to a dvd exercise to Hip hop and we probably spent more calories from laughing. We did the full 30 minute workout and I was worn out. I got another one that features salsa music and has hand weights. So we will see what happens. My niece's wedding is June 18 and we leave in the 20th. Daniel and Renee will be here with the kids. My dad booked the Polynesian Cultural Center for June 23. We will book the rest of the excursions for Oahu. Then we will get together with the rest of the family to plan the Maui activities. My link to our Hawaii 2009 vacation is listed below. I will be taking mostly dresses,since the weather averages 75 all day/night. If I don't lose weight, I won't be able to fit into one dress I got last time at Hilo Hatties that I really like. Oh well, if not, I will give it to my sister. I have purchased a new bathing suit top, board shorts and a cute dress and flip flops to match. Nothing too expensive. I have also been thinking of getting an Ipad. I wonder if it will let me journal on it. I will be away from the computer otherwise because this laptop is big, old and only works when plugged in. We will see what the budget allows. I am still working on my Easter pictures and hope to work on it Sunday. Bye for now. Hugs


Today's Sayings:

April 8, 2012
Today's Sayings:

We have had beautiful spring weather all week.I was able to take Audrina for several walks. I didn't watch her on Wednesday so I could attend my friend's mom's funeral. It was a very nice celebration service. On Thursday my friends and I had dinner together and talked about the funeral and many other things. Friendships are so important, especially in the times of need or celebration. The kids had fun at the church Easter egg hunt. Church was really good too. Pastor Jim talked about Facebook in relationship to how God wants to connect to us. The ultimate message is that God seeks us and He loves us! My family will celebrate an Easter BBQ at my son's house. I will have more pics to share. Have a blessed Easter!

Eddie and Jazzy ready to go to the egg hunt.


Audrina saying "ooh, what's that?"



April 1, 2012
Today's Sayings: Nature and the circle of life.

I can't believe how the days just fly by! Last Saturday we spent the whole day at Disneyland. You can see pictures at the link listed to the left. Audrina keeps me pretty busy these days and I enjoy watching her antics and my exercise is chasing her around. She loves to go outside "side" and says shoes which means she wants out. I took her outside in the backyard a couple of times for a short while. We have a sparrow and an hummingbird nesting on the patio so I try not to disturb them too much. I took these pictures with my Iphone and the mom flew really close to me to keep me from getting to her eggs. Last night it was windy and the windchime kept moving and I prayed the nest would be ok. This morning she was on her nest.

The mom is flying in from the left. Her nest is in the center.

Close up.

The eggs are the size of a small raisin.

My friend lost her mother to liver cancer this past Monday and she was just diagnosed at the beginning of February. When she first found out, she called me and we talked at length on what to prepare for. She knew I would be honest since I lost my mom almost 2 years ago this May. Her mom told her she was ready to meet her Lord. She was able to share her wishes for the funeral. Death is hard but a fact of life. My friend is glad that she could be with her mom until the end. I spent a few hours with my friend, showing her how to get pictures on Powerpoint. Then we went out for dinner after church on Saturday. Our church has 2 Sunday service and one service on Saturdays. My son is getting off work early on Wed. so I can attend the funeral.

Saturday we will be taking the kids to the Easter egg hunt at church and then going back for service. Not sure what we are doing Eater Sunday but my mother in law has her birthday that day as well as my Pastor.

This week I will start dieting and exercising since vacation is 3 months away. I will also start booking the tours. I know the time will get her before I know it. Have a great week.

March 18, 2012
Today's Sayings: Remembering the past

This weekend our church celebrated it's 20 year anniversary. We went to the Saturday service and it was packed considering it was cold and raining outside. They passed out 2 shirts and had the place decorated with pictures from the past. The service was great. Pastor Jim led a few older worship songs and he talked about a vision God gave him in 1984 telling Jim he would be a Senior Pastor. New Beginning's Community Church opened in March of 1992. We had received a flyer a few weeks early and I thought it sounded great. But being a traditionalist, I did not want to go to church in a school. So we went to Greg Laurie's big church at Harvest. Greg Laurie, is a preacher/evangelist that puts on the Harvest Crusades each year. I enjoyed the church, but it was so big and I grew up in a small church and I wanted that for my kids. So in February of 1993, we started attending and we have been there ever since. My son Andrew met his wife Marina there when they both young teens. Jr and I were baptized there together and I was very involved as a Sunday School teacher, leader in Women's Ministry, lay counselor and hubby and were greeters. In 2007 our ministry changed to home. Renee had her babies and mom's Alzheimers was advancing. I don't know what God has in store for my future, but as I say, "Life happens" Now my 3 grandkids are all at church and that bring me great joy!

I have been looking at my website and I believe I started working on it with Geocities around 1998. I still have my guestbook and that dates back to 2000. I started my blog in 2002 and I have all that. I enjoyed reading some of those first post. I am going to back it all up to a flash drive. I am also going to print it out and put it in a folder. It is like my diary. I will post my archives when I redo my next layout for spring. Oh, Happy birthday to my daughter in law Marina and brother in law David! I will leave you with a couple of pictures. Have a great week!

My family, Easter 2004

Outside church, March 17, after the service.
March 9, 2012
Today's Sayings: The many moods of almost spring.


Audrina keeps me super busy!

The weather was in the 80's so I added some
fake spring flowers in the backyard.
This week we will have cloudy weather with possible rain.

Been working in the house too. Lots of washing

Packing things up to give away. Old books to library.


Praying for my family and friends.



March 9, 2012
Today's Sayings: Spring forward, fall back.

The days just seem to fly by. Audrina keeps me so busy! The dr told her parents it is time for her to go off her bottle. She would not go to sleep this morning and she does not want to drink it out of a cup. Her sleeping was way off today. I worry because she is already on the thin side. I let my kids have a bottle until they were 2. By then they were able to put the bottle in the trash one at a time, gradually. We will see how it goes. Renee nursed her two until after a year and then went to a cup. But they were both good eaters and eat really healthy now. They never have soda or candy. They get special treats they enjoy. Renee gives them veggies every dinner and fresh fruit.

I go back and forth and so does my waist. When I am on the So Beach I do ok. I still eat pretty healthy, but I stay up late and like to snack. I still get up early and I really need to break that habit. Farmville has the Hawaii farm now and I really enjoy it since I am going to Hawaii, but it sure is time consuming and the time just goes by before I know it! The weather is nice now so I plan to walk the baby if her sleep schedule goes back to normal
My dad passed his brokers test and he has a few things going on now. He does not make much money because he helps family and friends and then gives them a lower rate. At least it keeps him busy and his mind working. He is excited about going to Hawaii. 7 days in Oahu and 6 days in Maui. We are looking at the things we want to do now that the flight part is done. I am excited about it!

Last Saturday our church stared a new service night and my whole family enjoyed it. We have been at our church since Feb. 2003. The church started in March of 2002. I was a Sunday School teacher for 2 years and on the Women's ministry team for 14 years. I also let small recovery groups while going through my own recovery. Hubby and I were also greeters. I stepped down at the end of 2006. Renee got pg in 2007 and I was busy with her and the baby. Then I was busy helping my dad with my mom. So my ministry changed from church to home. Life happens has been my motto. When I was young, in high school, I planned out how I wanted my life to go. I wanted to be like my mom, a career woman and a mother. I got a degree in Social Ecolgy, a combination of the social services and biological sciences. I worked a year with a social worker and I was always so sad. When I graduated, I was working at the Post Office part time and decided to stay there while I started my family. I end up working nights for 19 years and my career there lasted 36 years. I think the biggest lesson I have learned is to be flexible. I have learned to make time for myself. I have learned that days go by way to fast. This evening I enjoyed a long relaxing bath and enjoyed reading my latest book. Hopefully I will get to bed by midnight! Oh and clocks change this weekend so remember to set your clock ahead one hour.

Feb 26, 2012
Today's Sayings: Moving along and enjoying the view.

I am watching the Oscars while writing this. I have enjoyed it so far and glad that Christopher Plumber won and Octavia Spencer for The Help. She had on a beautiful white dress and I loved the style. I loved Penelope Cruz's lavender dress and her retro hairdo. Viola Davis had a pretty dress and I was sad she did not win. Meryl Streep won again. It was nice to see the Board of Governors award go out to James Earl Jones, Oprah Winfrey and make up artist Dick Smith. I have only seen 2 Best Movies, War Horse and The Help. I plan to see the rest and get them at the Red Box. I always enjoy when they give tribute to the ones that have passed away in the last year.

I had the opportunity to hold an Oscar. In the late 80's our neighbor Ida Florio invited us to her daughter's house on the beach in Malibu. Maria Florio had written a documentary and won. She married Paul Mayer, heir to the Oscar Mayer family. I think the documentary was called Broken Rainbow. We were able to go down to the beach and we saw Ali McGraw with her son and she was sunbathing topless. We also saw Nick Nolte strolling by. I think the house next door was owned by Robert Redford. That was a cool experience. I think I have a picture somewhere. I would still like to do to Hollywood Walk of Fame. I think I will request to see it for my birthday.

On Saturday I was able to walk to the park and walk almost 2 miles. It was nice to see families with their kids and other walkers enjoying the great weather. I also enjoy the cotton tails and squirrels that come out. After my fifth lap I left the park to head home the back way that included an uphill route. It felt good to move with the music I put together on my IPhone to walk with. I also got to do a little yard work and and clean up in garage. I felt pretty good except for my elbow. I have been suffering from tennis elbow for a few months now and I am not sure if it is from taking care of Audrina or spending to much time on the computer. So I do have to cut back on my time here. After all that work, I was able to relax in a nice bath and read from Sister Chicks Do The Hula. I read it years ago and now that I am going to Hawaii, I thought I would read it again. I look forward to taking a picture with my sisters and I on the beach in Maui.

After church on Sunday we went to eat at Good Fellas. The whole place has pictures of movie stars, many from the Rat Pack Era while playing music from that era. My mom and dad would go there with us when mom was still able to get out. Lots of people from our church go there since it is close by and the food is great! Afterwards, we went to Wal-Mart to get a few things. As we were getting ready to check out, I saw this cute dress for $12.99 and I grabbed it for Hawaii. I tried it on at home and it fit great and what a deal! I really don't need to by much because I have a lot of clothes and sandals for Hawaii. Last week I found some board shorts and a flowery top at Kohls and was able to get 30% off the sale price. I don't buy much now and that is ok. Well I will end with a picture of my dress. My daughter said it would be too short, but it is a little above my knees. I have a short black sweater I can wear with it in the evening if I need it.

Feb 23, 2012
Today's Sayings: Good new and plans to downsize.

First of all, my sister Terry passed her big state exam! I prayed and prayed and was so happy to get her text the she passed. Now she is at Berkeley visiting her grand daughter that lives with her parents while her mom is at the University. Terry's son Diego watched the baby and goes to college. There may be an opportunity for them to go to France for a semester with her program. Terry will get to go to Hawaii with us and to Cancun for her son Sergio's wedding. She has worked long and hard for this. My mom would be so proud of her and we all are for sure!

I have been thinking the past few days about downsizing my website. I have over 350 pages! I had more when I had my adoption shop. I have also consolidated some pages and I use to have 2 sites! This one and my family one. I consolidated them 2 years ago. I have a lot of inspirational pages with wonderful country graphics. The country graphic world has almost disappeared. At one time many of my friends had web homes like me. Then came the world of blogging and of some of us hosted our blog at our websites and then more left to Blogger. I am not sure how blogger stores the pictures that are uploaded. After spending hours to page protect our pictures and graphics, they are now free to anyone to take on Blogger or Facebook. But change is a sure thing and though I hate it, I will have to downsize. Just like at home. I have been going through paper work. Little by little I have been destroying my work papers. Mostly leave slips from over the years. I have several awards and they don't mean anything to me. I will just take pictures and save what I need for workers comp. and for a resume if I need it. I will be busy this weekend packing things up for the donation pick up on Tuesday.

Another thing that has changed things for me is Facebook games, mainly Farmville. I have spent hours on it. I am getting kind of tired of it right now. It is so addicting and I can't keep up with all the quest so I need to cut back on it. I have been walking the baby and enjoying it. I also took a long bath and read. I use to read with a passion and then cut way back. I think the games are wearing out my computer so I plan to save things and downsize on here too. I will leave you with this. It was sung by the Bryds in the 60's.

Ecclesiastes 3 (New International Version)
A Time for Everything

1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.


Feb 19, 2012
Today's Sayings: Summer plans developing.

Hubby and I spent the weekend with my dad and we had a great, restful time. Saturday we had dinner at my dad's favorite place, Black Angus. We had to wait an hour, but it was worth it. Once our food arrived, my sister Terry was able to join us. Terry is studying for her big final exam to get state board certified on Thursday. Please pray that she passes.

Saturday dad and I stayed up and watched tv until midnight. I always lay on mom's side and enjoy the fireplace. I showed dad pictures from our last Hawaii trip and discussed some of the things we ant to do when we are on Oahu. I slept in until 11 and then took a long shower. It gave my dad and Jr a chance to talk. Then we joined my sister and her hubby and son for lunch. We discussed our Hawaii plans. After a week in Oahu, we will join the rest of the family on Maui. Today dad, Jr and I finalized out flight arrangements with Triple A. We had spent 2 hours Sunday night looking at flights at with different companies like Expedia and cheap ticket and everything was over $800 and that was with 1 stop over in Arizona or Oregon. Then you have to figure in taxes. The agent Joanne was able to find us a good deal on a direct flight out of San Diego including car rental. We could not book things sooner until we could confirm the availability of my friends timeshare in Waikiki. At least we have a huge saving on that.

We missed the grandkids, but it was nice to enjoy the quiet. I did weigh myself and I have lost 3 pounds and I can tell how my pants feel. I really need to get the exercise moving. Luckily the weather will be nice this week and I can take Audrina for a walk everyday. I did eat a few carbs this week, but in small amounts and I feel good about that.

I started doing my Simple Woman's Daybook again and you can find the link on the right. Have a great weekend!

Feb 17, 2012
Today's Sayings: Pondering about the future.

I am almost through with my phase 1 of the South Beach Diet. I am eating better, but I need to increase the exercise. I have been walking more, mostly by taking Audrina for walks. My goal is to lose 5 pounds by June but I am more concerned with losing inches around my middle.

Eddie missed his first Valentine's party because it got sick. He had a really bad headache and threw up at school when Renee was dropping him off so Renee brought him back home. I was busy trying to give Audrina breakfast and holding the bowl when Eddie was sick. It finally passed after a couple of hours. Renee called the advise nurse and they had her bring him in. He was much better and they mentioned that Eddie seemed more like a 6 year old than a 4 year old. Audrina is eating better now and feeling better. I think the combination of having a cold and teething made her lose her appetite last week. Jazzy loves to dress up and pose. My niece called Renee up yesterday and asked if Jazzy could be a flower girl in her wedding. The wedding in on June 18. We leave to Oahu, Hawaii on the 20th and fly over to Maui on the 27th where we will meet up with my sister and her family and the Newlyweds. They will say their vows again after the Luau. So I have 4 months to get in shape. I want to be able to be as healthy/active as I can to keep up with my grand kids and life in general. This weekend hubby and I are going to my dad's so we can book our flights. Have a nice weekend!

Audrina ready to "GO!"


Eddie playing in his Cars Tent. I think Audrina is in there too.


Eddie is student of the month for Feb.


Jazzy posing on the stairs.


Jazzy posing in her plaid dress.


Jazzy posing in her Dora princess dress.

Feb 8, 2012
Today's Sayings: A touch of spring in winter again.

It was a beautiful day today and I was able to take Audrina for 2 walks. She is so active now and really keeps me busy. I don't spend much time playing my games during the day so I stay up late catching up. I am so tired that I have to take a nap with Audrina! Audrina is a picky eater and we were getting worried so her parents took her in for a visit. She is only 20 pounds but still looking good to the dr. She has reached all her milestones and love the Ipad. I don't have one but she does look at the pictures on my Iphone. She knows how to turn the pictures and she actively looks for the Snoopy application I have.

I am back on the South Beach diet again and I am doing well on it. I don't know why I just don't eat well all the time. The holidays really messed me up. Well I mean I messed me up. There is only 4 months until we go to Hawaii so I need to drop a few pounds and firm up! I need to get myself to bed earlier. I am really looking forward to our vacation! I got an unexpected check today in the mail from the Post Office that I worked at. Almost $200 for 8 hours of vacation time I did not use. That will go towards the Hawaii vacation. I want to get some new pictures up in the next day or so. I have a lot to share, just need to resize them. Bye for now. Hugs

Jan, 29th, 2012
Today's Sayings: A touch of spring in winter.

The weather has been so warm and dry because of the Santa Ana winds and it really bothers my sinuses. Then cold season has been hitting all of us. Trees are budding and the bird and bees have been flying around. It seems like spring is here, but we still have February so we will see what happens. Once Upon a Time is one of the new shows I am watching. I think I like it for a few reasons. First it reminds me of the Disney movies I enjoyed while growing up. Second, I like how it goes back and forth between a present day community called Storybrook and the scenes of the Fairy tales. Finally, I enjoy the 3 main female characters. It was a bit confusing the first few episodes, but I like that because it makes my mind think. I want to make sure I get a lot of brain exercise. I play Word with friends every day. I'd like to think that even playing on my farms makes me think. I have 4 farms and I like to move things around and lately there have been numerous quest that keep the mind always planning. Ok so much for mind games. What I really need to work on is physical games or at least some type of exercise. Right now I am chasing Audrina around. She keeps me so busy! The weather should be nice so I can take her for a walk this week. Her parents left today on their Caribbean cruise, courtesy of Monavie. First stop is Florida at the Coco Beach Hilton. Monday they leave on their cruise and return on Friday. I will have Audrina all week as usual. Marina's mom will pick her up and take her home and watch her at night. I would say that Audrina is blessed to have to grandma's that love her. Maybe this little vacation will bring another grand chid! I am sure they will post pictures on FB. Speaking of Facebook, I am sure it has changed the habits of many. Like anything, there are pros and cons of Facebook. I like connecting to family and friends. I do miss how the country web homes have almost all vanished. Many people who were blogging have left. I made a lot of friends through them. At least many of those friends are playing games at FB. This year I decided I wanted to do more than just play games which are so addicting. So I am reading again. I have been reading a book called Cape Light co authored by Thomas Kinkaid the artist and "painter of Light" I read his first book years ago and enjoyed it. When I am finished with this book, I have 5 others waiting for me. What I really need to go is exercise. Our trip to Maui is in 5 months and I need to lose at least 5 pounds and do some strength training. I liked lifting hand weights, but I have been troubled with pain in my elbow and shoulder. I won't let the pain get the best of me, I have too much to do! Have a great week. Hugs and blessings.

Jan, 17th, 2012
Today's Sayings:
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord! Palms 100 (KJV).

My cousin Joanie and I saw the best movie Monday called Joyful Noise with Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton. We both want to see it again. There was such a good message in the movie, in fact several. Of course the music was great! We went to Walmart after the movie to get the Sound tract, but it was not in yet.

I went to get my physical before the movie and the Dr said I was doing well. My blood pressure was good. My weight was a few pounds off from the holidays and I plan to get more exercise in. She suggested Zumba. We talked about me going off the anti depressant and she asked why. She reviewed my family history of depression and she felt the low dosage I was taking would still help me through menopausal hot flashes and the life stresses of grandkids. As I have mentioned before, the body does not recognize good stress and bad stress. We also talked about Alzheimers and the correlation between high levels of depression and Alzheimers. She was happy to hear I had my mammogram and she did a manual check and checked my breathing. She also checked my carotid artery in the neck. She stressed the importance of taking 1200 mg of Calcium with vitamin D. She said to take Caltrate, twice a day. Not to take it all at once because the body can better absorb it taken with 2 doses spread out. I really like my Dr. She takes the time I need to ask questions. She gave me an elbow splint because I keep having problems with it. Now I just need to go in for my blood work after a 12 no eating fast. I plan to go Saturday morning. So I just have to get more exercise in.

Sunday we celebrated my son Andrew's 31st birthday. My sister Terry is his godmother and she wanted to know how her miracle baby was. After 3 miscarriages, I conceived Andrew. I had bleeding the first 4 months. I had to take weekly hormone shots and stay in bed. I was seen by the high risk group at UCI Medical Center. After 24 hours of hard labor, I end up having a C Section. He was 8 pounds, 7 ounces, 21 inches long and looked just like his dad. The Lord finally blessed me with a son and then another son=Daniel and a daughter Renee. I am blessed now with my 3 grand babies. God is good! I am writing this as the baby naps. She woke up late but still went down early for a nap. Guess walking wears her out. So now I need to get some things done around the house. Hubby just called to say they admitted his dad into the hospital so prayers are appreciated. Have a great day! Hugs

After Sunday lunch at Chilis.


Happy Birthday Andrew



Audrina finally deciding she likes walking alone.


Jazzy with her new purse will play make up.




Top 10 TV Shows (past or present)no special order
The Wonderful World of Disney
I Love Lucy
Lassie
Little House on the Praire
Dallas
Survivor
Star Trek
Carol Burnett Show
ER
Grey's Anatomy

Jan, 10th, 2012
Today's Sayings:
"A happy heart is like good medicine,
but a broken spirit drains your strength"
Proverbs 17:22 (NCV).

Hi friends, I have been super busy putting away my Christmas decorations and reorganizing them as I go along. Hubby and I have been married 37 years and I have lots of them. The last Christmas at home when I was engaged was special. My parents gave us a small box of ornaments. I put them up every Christmas. So over the years I have accumulated many. I started collecting Hallmarks when Andrew was born. When Andrew and Marina married, I gave them a box of ornaments along with many decorations. I love to decorate several rooms for the holidays. But it sure takes time to take it down. I am in no rush. I am also working on my annual Christmas page and that take time too. First I have to find the right graphics. Then I reflect the age of the grandbabies and the graphics to use for them. Then I have to pick the right pictures and resize them to fit on my blog. I know it is a lot of work, but my family enjoys looking at the pictures and working on the page keeps my mind active. I use to spend hours working on web pages, but with the advent of Farmville games, my time is now limited.

During the day I am busy taking care of my grand daughter Audrina. She is 16 months old now and keeps me busy! She can take steps alone but still prefers to crawl or hold onto things as she goes. She can take several steps alone if she wants to. She really is into climbing so I really have to watch her. She does not like the cage much and I don't blame her. I let her play in the kids playroom or Eddie's room. Means I have to be there to watch her so I do not get much done. I try to get the kitchen done while she is eating her Cheerios and 'nana" Once I out her down for her nap, I start laundry, eat lunch, watch my programs and play on the computer. Audrina is picked up around 4:45 and Renee gets home shortly after that and the kids come running in to give Mema a hug while I am working on dinner. It's like being a mommy of babies all over again! I am blessed and glad I can help out.

I am working on a Bible study on laughter and joy. It is a good way to start the new year. I hope to get more reading in this year with real books. I don't have a Kindle or Ipad. I am going to try to learn some new Bible verse too. I will end with some cool things about laughter.

Laughter and joy exercise the lungs.
Laughter and joy stimulate circulation.
Laughter and joy help control pain.
Laughter and joy reduce tension
Laughter and joy boost the immune system



One more thing I just found, a Tuesday Meme from Sue

My top 10 apps on my iPhone (in no particular order):
Word For Friends
Facebook
Bible+1
Flashlight
KLove- Christian music
ITunes
Michaels-coupons!
I need to add some more now.

December 31st, 2011
Today's Sayings:

It is hard to believe that another year is coming to an end. Time goes by so quickly! Yesterday was the 2 year anniversary of the death of my furbaby Reina. I was so heart broken. Last year was the first Christmas I did not have a mom and missed her a lot this year. Time does heal the heart that hurts. Hope fills the heart and keeps it going. The older I get the more I realize how blessed I am. My family is the most important thing to me and everything else is material. I enjoy watching my grand kids grow and I want to be around for as long as I can. So I decided to start out the New Year right. Yesterday I went to Kaiser with my husband. He has a doctor's appointment and I decided to get my mammogram done while waiting for him. They take walk in and no charge! I also got a flu shot-ouch! I have my physical on the 16th. Now to change my eating habits. I told hubby we are eating healthier too. After that I had to return my fireplace hooks since they did not work. The we went to the Mission Inn for dinner. They decorate for the holidays and there was a lot of old world decorations. We were sitting in the Las Campanas patio when the lights all went on. You could hear the people filled with wonder. After walking around the Mission, we went across the street to the antique store. I was able to find a Snoopy Hallmark ornament dated 1991 for only $6.99 and it was in mint condition! I am going with my dad later today. I want to wish you all a very Happy New Year! Hugs and Blessings!

December 29th, 2011
Today's Sayings: A tease of spring weather.

It was 82 today and sunny. I was able to take Audrina for a walk and she loves her walks. I hope to take her to the park Thursday since this weather will continue until after the New Year. The nights on the other hand have been in the low 30's. I am so glad I don't have to go out in the early morning like hubby. It is good that I retired when I did since they changed his hours to start at 5am instead of 6am. He is really hoping to retire this year. I am thinking of my NY resolutions and as usual, better health is on the top. I plan to do more reading too. I am so addicted to FV and I know how I need to spend less time playing. I do enjoy playing Words with Friends and it is good for the brain.

I took tons of pictures for Christmas and now I need to work on my annual Christmas page that are at my family Christmas site linked at the left. The highlight for me was Christmas dinner at my sisters and taking my grand niece and her mom. My sister Terry was so happy! We stayed at Terry's and watched while the baby's presents were opened. Another nice thing was Daniel taking his girlfriend and her son. Edward was able to be there and he left back to Vegas on Monday evening. I was able to pick up a few after Christmas sale items. A Charlie brown musical moving ornament and wrapping paper. I also got another CB tree that has the Linus blanket and plays music. I took the stocking down yesterday but I am not rushing to get things put away. I will go at a pace that is relaxing and organized. I am planning on spending the weekend with my dad and come back on Monday. Jr goes to bed early because of his hours so he doesn't mind me going with my dad. Bye for now. Hugs

December 19th, 2011



Today's Sayings: "I will honor Christmas in my heart,
and try to keep it all the year." Charles Dickens

It is countdown to Christmas. Today we had a church play that showed Jesus on the cross. There were specific things Jesus said like "I thirst" and "it is finished. Then the scene would change to a Jesus as a boy. It was an interesting play with a great message. Then Pastor Jim dismissed us but not before telling us to enjoy our Christmas meals. After church we went out for lunch with my dad and my inlaws. Edward arrived from Las Vegas and joined us too. The babies were really happy to see their daddy. Dad brought down gifts from Temecula and took ours. The kids are all excited about Christmas now. Oh the picture above is the ornament I mentioned in my previous post. I found it online and I love it!

Audrina kissing her gingerbear we got her.


Audrina in her kiddie cage.

So what is on your Christmas menu? Christmas Eve dinner is normally tamales. We will go to the Christmas Eve Service at church before heading to my inlaws. Saturday I will be making enchilada casseroles for my family's Christmas dinner. My daughter will be baking so we will be busy in the kitchen. I was suppose to go make tamales on Saturday with my cousins and aunts, but I woke up feeling sick and decided to stay put. I felt bad because I really wanted to do this. I have learned to listen to my body. Hopefully I can go next year. But what I really want to do is make my own. Traditional tamales are made with pork or beef. But my husband can't eat it and my daughter won't eat it and everyone likes chicken. I am going to try to make some for the New Year. I just need to find and easy recipe. Mexican markets sell the masa already made so I will get that. If I find a good recipe, I will share it at my Recipe site.

On Thursday, my cousin Joanie and I drove to Downtown Disney to meet our friend Judy and her daughter. Judy's family was taking a Disneyland vacation and I planned to meet up. We had the best time. We got to listen to the Dicken Carolers at the Grand Californian. We had mocha cafe coffees and this wonderful chocolate fudge cake with warm caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream. It was yummy! The time flew and before we knew it, it was almost midnight. I met Judy online around 2001 and we have met 4 times now. What a blessing she is! Her daughter Emily is a little blessing to with the most sweet spirit. She gave us each a Minnie angel and it is on my tree next to the Minnie ornament that I got from Melanie, another online friend. God is good to bless me with sweet friends.

Our yummy desert.

I do not watch Audrina this week. I put away the cage and all the extra toys and now my living room is in order. Right now my dining room has presents that need to be wrapped and a couple of craft projects that need to be fixed. I am listening to Christmas music and relaxing in my chair. I like to stay up late and sleep in late. I have always been a night owl. I like to play my games when the house is quiet. I still work on my website, but not as often. I do have this page to share and I am going to add it to my Christmas index. Merry Christmas if I don't post again.

Christmas Blessings

December 12th, 2011

Today's Sayings:"Let inspiration generate hope today" LIGHT- Thomas Kinkade

I was watching an interview of Thomas Kinkade and learned that he was a student of Cal State Berkeley in Ca. It was there that he found more than education. He found a personal relationship with the Father of Lights, the inspiration for his paintings. It made me think of the children's play today at church. The "stars of heaven" told the story of the "Light from heaven" They told the story through songs. There was "the Star, Shooting Star, "Falling Star" and more. They also sang a song called "This little light of mine." It was one I sang in Sunday School and one I sang to my own children. I sang it with the the kids in the class I taught in Sunday school. They enjoyed it because it has hand motions. Now I want to show the hand motions to my grand kids. I was also reminded of a play I was in when I was a child. Each child in my Sunday school class held a candle and recited a verse. This was mine. "Christians lit the light, that all the world may see, the gift of love, from God above, God's son who set us free. That was about 48 years ago!

I love all the Christmas lights on the trees in the house. Last week we took the kids for a walk in the neighborhood to see the lights and displays. Yesterday we went to Knott's Berry Farm, and I enjoyed the lights come on as the sun was setting. I especially enjoyed the music playing, the traditional songs I learned at school and church while growing up. I was especially happy to see a Nativity displayed as we entered the park. I was thinking of Kia and how she shared a picture and asked if we had one to share. It has inspired me to do a web page on my many Nativity displays/ornaments. That will be my next web project. Meanwhile, you can see some at my Christmas site linked at the left. Each Sunday our pastor reminds us as we leave, Love people! Have a great week!

Jazzy is afraid of Snoopy.


The ourdoor Nativity at night.


I wanted the little Nativity on the lower left but it was sold out.

December 1st, 2011



Today's Sayings: Happy Birthday to my sister Terry!

Well look who the wind blew in....me. Well we are experiencing the Santa Ana winds which brought in colder weather and knocked over a lot of things in the backyard. I will have to go look at my front tree to see how many leaves have fallen. I did take a picture yesterday. I am all decorated now and will post pictures at the annual page I make. My daughter asked what I wanted for Christmas. I told her a day to talk with my mom cause I miss her voice. Of course I will have to wait until I get to heaven. I miss her more this year than last year. I guess because since I was the oldest, I got to stay up and help her decorate, and wrap presents. We sat on the couch with hot chocolate and watched Christmas movies like White Christmas. That was before there were cell phones and laptops and multiple rooms with Satellite TV. Life is busy and I thought it would slow down once I retired, but I am busy with the baby and taking care of the house. The kids enjoyed putting ornaments on the tree. Last summer when the ornaments came out, I bought some for my grandkids. Now that Christmas is here, I have no idea what I did with them! Well I am sure they will show up. I have been helping my dad with his Christmas list and getting ready to do his cards. We both send pictures to Costco to have cards made. I will be spending the weekend with him and I am sure we will get a lot done. Dad has already decorated and set up his tree. He got a smaller one and set it in the living room instead of the family room. We went to my son's house for Thanksgiving and took some pictures for our Christmas card. Hubby and I went away for the weekend on the Friday after Thanksgiving. We stayed in Orange County and went to Downtown Disney and Old Town Orange. We had a nice time, enjoying the sites and sounds of Christmas. I got a few trees to decorate and an antique store. We did go to Target and found some items too. It was a nice and much needed weekend. Our next get away will be in June for my nieces wedding in Maui. Well the baby is up and I need to go. Hugs

Some weather Minis by Sonia

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