Pensak Postings

Have you met Breven's new friend?

2012-01-26T12:38:00.000-08:00

This is Flat Stanley he is our new friend here. Breven has moved beyond the picture books he has been bringing home and grows bored with the lack of excitement and interest in the stories. Also he is ready to move on to chapter books he is always wondering what happened next or how a story could continue on past what the book showed.

In comes Stanley its a chapter book series for 2nd-3rd graders it has some pictures but mostly words which makes Breven happy. The stories are much more interesting with a good amount of appropriate humor. The chapters are just long enough to cover the time needed after reading one of the books in his bag without being overwhelming.

This boy gets flattened when a bulletin board falls on him and his adventures continue to space, a genie and in the series we are almost on around the world! This has sparked an interest in countries and travel which has led me to some ideas for summer vacation.

Its nice to finally find books that can keep his attention and a character that isn't questionable! I have a feeling Stanley will be around for a while!

Homework troubles

2012-01-20T14:51:00.001-08:00

Man when kids get to the homework phase of school sometimes it seems like it's parent work more than kid work! I am not complaining Breven has been improving on whining less about doing it but the other night Brad and I got a good laugh out of this math sheet.

Breven has this particular page and I am busy with Aubree so I ask Brad to help. Basically they wanted him to write 7-3=4 pretty simple. But we found that to be wrong. My husband is a math person with a very analytical brain and so that note on the bottom is all him!

By the way the teachers answer book is available in PDF format online!

Recipe time

2012-01-13T17:29:00.000-08:00

I am still here! Breven had strep this week so my schedule was all thrown off with him home!

I tried something new Wednesday night my mom told the kids it was chicken pot roast I don't know what to call it but it tasted good!

I started off by using a tiny bit of salt and pepper on some boneless, skinless chicken thighs I browned those in a large pan, once those were done I removed them and set them aside. I then added some celery, onions and garlic to the pan and let those cook down a bit then added a full package of fresh mushrooms. I then added two of those stock pod things(not sure of the brand name but its concentrated stock) and 2 1/2 cups of water to the mix, some fresh rosemary from my yard and then the chicken. I simmered it until it cooked down quite a bit and added a bit of cornstarch and water to thicken things towards the end and a little sprinkling of parsley.

It was good and my kids ate it no questions asked!

Breven's room re-do

2012-01-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

Though we are not 100% finished this is whats done so far. We are planning on some NFL print pillows and an Eagles Fathead on the wall and his parking sign and a few decals for the closet and then I say we are 100% done.

Breven has been asking for a year to paint his room green. After a lot of begging on his part, nagging on my part and hard work from his dad the room is re painted. It went from pretty blue ocean waves to Philadelphia Eagles green with accents.

Breven is so excited and thrilled to finally have what he calls a big boy room!

Christmas Vacation

2012-01-06T16:03:00.000-08:00

Brad took the same 2 weeks off as the kids this year and it was so nice to have someone else home to help keep the kids occupied and not fighting!

We started the week with the boys going to the desert for boys day they had lunch, did some Christmas shopping and bought paint for Breven's room makeover. Tuesday Uncle Ken and Aunt Suzie came out and we headed to the desert for a ymmy lunch at cheesecake factory and some family time! Wednesday we all had a trip to the dentist Breven had his first cavities and Aubree had her first xrays then a cleaning. Thursday we did some commissary shopping and then I took Breven to start his fillings. Brad was painting off and on and cleaning and organizing. In the middle of all of this the kids and Brad were sick before vacation and I got it and it turned into bronchitis and I got to spend an evening in urgent care!

Saturday started our Christmas celebrations we had Brad's family over and then put everyone to bed for Christmas day when my parents came over.

The next week was more painting cleaning and putting the new toys away. There was also lots of playing outside in the unusually warm weather, Lego building, and music and dancing in the house while mommy and daddy cleaned.

This week it has been back to reality of school, work and workouts. It was a fun vacation and I hope Brad continues to take time off of work to celebrate Christmas and the vacation with us!

Christmas for the kiddos

2012-01-06T15:55:00.001-08:00

As you can see mommy and daddy and Nana and pop pop were good to my kids! Oh and Santa too. Breven and Aubree both got leappads(glad we ordered them in September because leapfrog sold out in November) they call them ipads and love them to death. Breven has been practicing his math and some other games and Aubree loves that it reads her stories.

Breven got a cool RC car called an e revo, tons of legos and a few other random items. Aubree got an art easel, a new small doll house so now her people have a 2nd house instead of trying to crowd into one, and her princess babies. They are the animators collection from Disney store and they look like little girl versions of some of the princesses(so worth the purchase she loves them)

Brad got a new drill, saw, and a cool tervis cup that says best dad ever. He also bought himself an e revo and a new bike trainer(but he has to share that one with me) I got a camera, a cake pop maker a new blu ray and my parents gave us shopping money and new Oakleys. I got the TACA ones it stands for Talk About Curing Autism and it has puzzle pieces all over the sides and I love them and some of the money goes to charity which I like.

We stayed home all day and played with all of our toys and it is my favorite way to spend Christmas at home with the 5 most important people to me. We are truly blessed!

Time for a way overdue update!

2012-01-05T16:13:00.000-08:00

Ok so call me a slacker I have totally fallen off the blog wagon! Well with some new changes going on here and my kids getting bigger even faster I think blogging may be making a come back! So let the updates begin!

Brad- Well Brad has decided to return to school and since CBU closed the Beaumont campus he had to find another school that would take his credits and help him to finish. Enter University of Redlands. After a lot of work with counselors and some creative money juggling he enrolled and will be in school every Tuesday night for 2 years. (hence more blogging time since the kids go to bed at 8 and he doesn't get home until 10:30pm)

He also continues to ride his bike and got a trainer(a bike trainer you put your bike on it and it holds it in and you can ride year round) to work with while the weather is not so cooperative. Even though its 80 degrees riding a bike in the wind it way harder than you think! He gained the dreaded 5lbs of Christmas and is back on track to taking that off! If he doesn't his new wardrobe may not fit anymore!

Breven- Well Breven finally lost another tooth! he lost his first front tooth just before Christmas with a little help from the dentist that root was so high up she had to help us pull it. Breven also has experienced his first cavities and we are not happy! It was between his teeth so something a brush and floss could miss so it was not his fault!

He is working hard in school and had a great report card and conference. He is an amazing reader and with the exception of penmanship a good writer. His math still needs a little work he seems to have inherited my hatred and horrible issues with math!

He no longer has a little boy room and got a full room makeover(which I will post soon) we have changed a few of his chores and how his allowance is handled and things are going well for him. We are waiting for swim season with big anticipation. This year because his birthday is mid season he gets to swim 6 and under 1 more year placing him as one of the biggest and oldest kids in the division which is a big advantage for him.

Aubree- Is continuing in preschool and is doing great! She is beginning to recognize her letters and some numbers since we practice at home, she loves playing and has become better at relationships with other kids. She also has become good at coloring! She is almost in the lines which is pretty good for 3 if you ask me!

We have stepped her up here at home and she now has a few small jobs and is taking responsibility for her self more and more and is way too independent at times for her own good!

Charlee- Me well lets see..... I took over as class rep for Aubree's class and I now have a lot more responsibility in her class along with no maintenance days and less working in class days but I have a lot more work outside of class. Helping to coordinate schedules, doing emails and just a lot of busy work.

I have hardly had a chance to ride my bike but once we get a thing for my tires I can ride more in order to catch up to Brad. I am still going to Jazzercise 3-4 times a week and I have now successfully maintained my weight for 1 year(now just to shave off that stupid belly mess I would be happy)

I have been trying to squeeze in some crafting time and some hubby time in my schedule but its not going to be easy with Brad back in school! I am happy for him and a little stressed about me! The kids hate it when he is gone and throwing the routine off is not going to be easy. Plus keeping the kids wrangled so he can study is not an easy task either. And to be 100% honest I am jealous! It's not fair I always wanted to finish school but was always told no we don't have the money and well when Brad wants to do it the money magically shows up. He doesn't even really want to do it but he has to in order to be promoted and I would give my right leg to be able to go to school and finish my degree (yes I have 2 AA's but to me that's not good enough) Also I worry about if there comes a day when Brad can't work what am I going to do? How will I support the 4 of us or if the worst happens the 3 of us? I just feel like I will never be comfortable in that until I have something to protect me.

Well that's about it. I will have posts about Christmas, room make overs, grown kids and all sorts of fun with pictures! (I finally got a camera)

Family pics 2011

2011-12-06T12:27:00.000-08:00

This is us 2011 holiday photos more will come soon we have a surprise shoot with my dad who hates pictures!

Mud Run 2011

2011-11-22T13:00:00.001-08:00

So on Saturday November 19th me and a few of my fellow Jazzerciseres did a mud run...... Yes I know what you are thinking Charlee Pensak the girly girl who hates to be outside dirty or gross doing a mud run???

Well the story starts that week I was aked by a few of the girls to join I had to talk to Brad to keep the kids. When he said yes I was in. A mud run is on my bucket list its not a well known thing but I do have a bucket list in my head.

Saturday morning I was up at O dark thirty to get ready we headed to starbucks and were off. It was cold maybe in the low 60's and cloudy so we were ready to run to heat up! We went with the 3rd wave of people and took off. I carried a sand bag, ran through several mud pits, under nets, over tubes, hopped walls and k rails, climbed a wall and slid down an enormous muddy slide.

It was so fun! I finished in 57mins it was 3.9 miles and I got a cool dog tag and stories for my kids.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

This year I had to get a little creative. I hate to spend a lot of money on a costume that is worn for a 2 whole hours and then is too small the next year. So with that said after 3 years as spiderman the costume had to be handed down so Breven needed something cool and yet cost effective. We were going to make him a Lego brick but Brad didn't have time so Mom had to get creative. While out and about I got the idea that since one of Breven's favorite movies is Indana Jones and we already have the cool hat from Disneyland that it was a great costume idea. I got a pair of cargo pants that looked a little worn, and a white shirt(which I dyed the brown color with tea) and my mom bought him the whip at the costume store and she had a satchel("its not a purse its a satchel" Name that movie?) then I found work boots online used for $5 and we were set. When I was getting him dressed it didn't look quite right. I knew it Indy needed some 5'O clock shadow. So I hit my makeup drawer and used some black and brown eyeshadow on a makeup sponge to create the look and Indiana was ready to rock. He had a great time and people loved the costume and most people figured out who he was pretty fast!

Aubree got lucky our old neighbor has given us costumes from the Children's Place since she used to manage the store and got killer discounts. So I got out the dress had to buy a hat (the one that came with the dress was too small) and all she needed was a broom. We got her all ready and she practiced her witch laugh.

How did this boy get so grown up???

2011-10-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

Look at this school picture! He was just a tiny baby 6 years ago and now here is a big first grader with the most handsome school pictures. Mommy thinks her baby is getting too big too fast!

My new not so bad for you chocolate chip cookie recipe

2011-10-26T14:59:00.000-07:00

Yup I tweeked a recipe on the back of the splenda brown sugar package and came up with the most amazing and tasty chocolate chip cookies ever! So I thought I would share the recipe here with my friends and readers.

Ingredients
1c all purpose flour
1c. Whole wheat flour(you can use all white flour or all wheat if you use all wheat they tend to get dry)
1tsp baking powder
1tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 c butter
1/2c margarine (you can use all margarine but I like the browning butter has so using half the amount cuts calories)
1c. Splenda brown sugar blend (this product is great half splenda half regular half the calories and all the taste and moisture)
2 Large eggs
1tbsp vanilla
2 c chocolate chips(I love dark chocolate chips its tasty and adds antioxidants and all the good stuff about chocolate)

Pre-heat the oven to 375 and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper(I used to think this was a waste man was I wrong parchment paper makes it so much easier!)

Combine flours. baking powder, baking soda and salt in a small bowl and set aside

Mix butters, splenda,eggs and vanilla with a mixer. Then slowly add in the flour mixture then last the chocolate chips(I like to mix these in by hand)

Drop dough on to cookie sheets. Now I love big cookies so I use an ice cream scoop and space them apart so they don't stick.

Bake 11-15mins depending on cookie size and your oven mine is super hot and consistent so its only 11mins.

There you have it folks a tasty not so guilty pleasure that even the kids and the hubby will eat(and I know my family is more than half way done with one batch and it has not even been 24hrs yet)

Bike to finish MS weekend 2011

2011-10-25T10:17:00.001-07:00

After 6 months of training hard work and lots of planning and laughing along the way Brad completed the 100mile 2 day bike to finish MS event last weekend in Mission Bay San Diego.

Our journey started Friday we had bags packed and ready to go all we needed was ice and a bike and we were ready to hit the road. I went to get Breven at school and he came walking out to me holding his hand funny and in tears. He had hurt his finger and it was all swollen and bruised! I asked him what happened he said he got hurt at lunch the regular office clerk was at lunch and so they gave him ice and sent him back to class. He had a sub and couldn't write and they didn't send him back to get checked. By the time he got to me it was horrible and so I took one look at him and said he had to go to extended care and get an x-ray in case it was broken or broke into his hand. We were all so upset by the lack of caution or notice that we got. I got a phone call when he took a basketball to the face but not for this. Well almost 2 hours later we found out it was not broken and that after the swelling goes down they may have a hairline fracture.

So now we hit the road 2 hours later than planned making for one ticked off hubby and 2 hungry kids. We were on the road in traffic for 2 hours and poor Breven we had to let him go pee in a water bottle because we were trapped in the carpool lane due to a 5 car accident! We made it to our night 1 stop at my Grandmas house in Seal Beach and enjoyed a great dinner and some family time.

Saturday morning we were up nice and early at 5:00am to leave and be in Irvine at the start line. We met team members checked him and and then watched as he took off. We then loaded in the car and headed towards Carlsbad our night 2 stop. We arrived at the resort(which by the way the Sheraton Carlsbad next to Legoland is awesome and has great service and was the best hotel ever) we checked in and put our things in the room and headed to the finish line to wait for Brad. We met some relay great people with MS who were so encouraging and so nice and they were very positive when we told them he has MS and was riding they cheered extra loud for Brad.

Brad rode in and his time was about 3.5 hours to complete 55miles! We congratulated him and sent him to the room to rest, shower and hit the massage tents. The rest of us hit the Legoland aquarium(don't waste your money! we got $10 tickets and I was ok with spending that but the $20 it normally costs not worth it) The kids loved the fish and the octopus. We did discover that Legoland has a shopper pass you let them hold your credit card info and you get 1 hour to shop free of charge as long as you return in the time slot. Breven, Aubree and I got some cool Lego goodies!

We headed back to the hotel freshened up and joined the power peddlers for dinner and music. After we ate as a family my mom took my kids back to the room(I love my mom best support team ever) and Brad and I got to stay around for the Jersey fashion show, drinks and the VIP fundraising lounge. Brad raised $2600 as of today!

Sunday morning we said goodbye to Brad at 7am and we cleaned up packed up and headed out to the last stop at mission bay. We fed the kids and headed to the beach to wait for Brad to finish. We bought our MS swag and bracelet's and again met some more wonderful people and their families touched by MS like us. One man got off his bike took the hand of his mom and she and he crossed the finish line together she is walking with a cane and has had MS for over 20 years. It brought a tear to my eye.

Brad crossed the finish line a little over 3.5 hours again. We welcomed him with home made signs and lots of cheering! He got his medal and we had lunch and headed home.

We are all so proud of Brad! He is in line to be a top 150 fundraiser from this year which means he gets an automatic entry in next years challenge and no entry fee. Being so inspired by him I decided to take the next year to train to join him and his team maybe doing the 150 challenge!

Update on Breven

2011-10-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

So we saw the nutritionist on Friday and guess what the growth charts are a little false if your child is over the 90th percentile for height about his weight! Breven is off the chart for height at this time so that tosses the weight issue. The nutritionist said he is a little over but not to worry as long as his height catches up!

She loved his food diary even the day with the big frozen yogurt. She said his breakfast is perfect (he eats natural peanut butter on 45cal bread, with milk and fruit) she loved his kids cliff bar snacks and even his mini juice boxes in his lunch. She gave me a few calorie and fat reducing tips to use but not over use. A kid at his height ant weight should eat between 1300 and 1500 calories a day and he is right in that range.

School is going great! he is doing well and has had his first bad behavior day but other than that is doing great. He has been invited to 2 birthday parties in the next 2 weeks and has friends that he spends time with. He joined the running club and is now running 1 afternoon a week and one day on the treadmill at home(with adult supervision of course! and only at 2.5 mph and a minor incline)

He has asked to play basketball and his dad caved and said yes so we will be a b-ball family for a season. He has chosen his Christmas gift a new mountain bike and cool one at that the boy needs a bike with gears for his legs to keep up with us!

I am so proud of what he has overcome in his social issues and his health I am amazed by how my little boy is growing into such a big boy!

Poor Breven

2011-09-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

So poor Breven has had a rough couple of months of things with the start of school and now we have found out that at 6 and 65 pounds he is considered obese! Yup I said it weight and height and age he should be roughly 58 pounds. So he is 8 pounds over weight. So whats a parent to do? Well in being proactive parents we got him an appointment with the nutritionist. I believe we may be over feeding him a bit because he loves to eat! We have also started to try and shrink some of his portion sizes and working on a plan to get him more exercise. He has to sit in school all day and PE is not that great. Our solution is 2 days a week of running and 2 days a week we are biking.

Our goal is not for him to loose a lot of weight but to get him to when he grows inch wise for him to not gain so it evens out. Has anyone out there had this type of experience to try and help their kid to slim down a bit? What did you do? What worked?

He was out in havasu this weekend and told me he needed to hold his chest because its was jiggley. I know he knows he has some chub and that he shouldn't and now that Brad has hardly any belly he is noticing his standing out. We are doing this all on the down low. He knows we are eating healthy and that he was eating too much junk and we told him that with him not swimming that we need to find better activities for him. So he has some of an idea but we have never said hey Breven you are overweight and we are putting you on a diet.

We never had this issue until that darn first medication they tried for him and it made him gain 8lbs in 3 months! I have been fighting that mistake for so long and we had it under control until summer vacation! Summer vacation was snack party at my parents and it didn't help that it was 100 degrees and most days he was inside with the TV on. So here we are now trying to correct what went wrong.

Field Trip

2011-09-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

Aubree had her first field trip to Willowbrook apple orchard last week. This was the perfect trip for little pre-schooler short sweet and easy.

She first got to toss apples in and turn the wheels to press cider, then we saw bees and tasted honey. We visited the chickens and Aubree got to hold the corn and feed the chicken she was quite impressed. She also saw a horse, a pot belly pig and a huge rabbit. Then she got a tractor ride with Nana(mommy has hay fever and cant sit in a truck of hay without lots of allergy meds)

All in all she had a great time and since its a parent run co-op each family is responsible for only their kid so no watching every ones kids. I was able to focus on Aubree and truly enjoy the trip unlike Breven's where I have 4 other kids I have to take care of as well as mine.

A rough start

2011-09-13T12:07:00.001-07:00

Poor Breven first grade was a rough start for the poor little guy I am hoping that this is not how his whole year will go.

First he didn't get the teacher he had wanted which I knew would happen. Then on the first day we were told we could not follow him to class which upset him. Well when he got home he was ok and had a good day. He missed his old friends he ended up in a class full of afternoon kinders and kids from the other class room so he felt like the odd one out. Then a few days in a new kid came to class(we are the overflow school) he was mean and teased Breven, and was mean to a few other kids as well. In this boys one week at our school he made Breven cry 3 days and was sent home with a red card every day so I know it was not just my kid having issues. This made him miss me and cried every morning for a week straight! Also some of his old friends thought that they had to hang out with their 3rd and 4th grade siblings and not their younger friends so that was an issue as well. He was overwhelmed by the full day and was tired and thought there was too much work.

Thankfully the mean kid was moved back to his own school. Breven had jobs in class and is now up front where he can pay attention and be close to the teacher. He has adjusted to the schedule and is now not so tired in the afternoons. So things are looking up. His teacher is having issues with a few kids in class as I noticed when I was in there I mean like the same 3 kids every time doing the same things and having the clips moved all day! Breven has told me that these kids are not his friends because bad kids can ask him to do bad things and he dosn't want his teacher to think he is bad(glad he figured that out)

Those first few weeks were so hard for me as a mom there was nothing I could do. I told them not to call me unless he was inconsolable or just went too far. But I remember being teased by mean little boys and my heart broke for my son. Then he said he was bored with all his reading and that it was all too easy(which it was I wish they would test him and get a level so we can get books) Right now he is reading the little readers they send home and I supplement the rest with books I bought for him to challenge his reading abilities.

He has made some new friends and has met some new challenges and I am hoping that this is the turning point and now he has a great school year!

Aubree at school

2011-09-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Yup it happened a day I was not ready for my little baby started pre school. She was such a big girl all dressed up(which was the first and last time that will happen the encourage free play and exploration so that means messy and they have a water/sand area)

We went in and took pictures and it was a mommy stay day so I spent the morning learning what the parent helpers do and the kids learned what they would be doing. It was fun she is in a 3 day a week class with 17 other kids for 3 hours. The moms rotate days working and bringing snack so I work in class 3 days a month and bring part of snack those days. The other part of being in a parent co-op is that this lowers the tuition rates.

She has been going for 2 weeks now and loves it. She never cries when I go which is great for me. She has learned a few things not too much she is only 3 and this is a play based school so academics are not pushed. She has learned some songs, some colors, how to play in sand, how to sit on the rug and how to serve herself at snack. They encourage a lot of Independence the kids even pour from a measuring cup their own water and drinks!

She is such a happy girl when she goes and is so worn out when I get her that most days she skips lunch and sleeps!

Swim lessons

2011-09-05T14:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry its sideways I can't seem to turn it

This is Aubree on her last day of swim lessons 5 weeks and she is now a swimmer thanks to Darci's Desert Dolphins

Slacking again!

2011-09-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

I am glad to say its not my fault! My parents got a not needed new computer because my dad is the king of I want whats new so we now have the old one! Which means until everything is transferred over no pictures from the old computer. I have first day of school shots and disneyland and a few others but I guess I may have to use phone pics because who knows when we will be back to our usual computer. Also traditional keyboards stink! I love my ergo one!

So today I come to blog about products. With the family on the healthy eating plan(Brad down almost 40lbs, me maintaining and Breven gaining 3-4lbs not sure why Breven is up but he needs to go back down my parents have been giving lots of snacks and its not helping! neither are the 100 plus temps keeping us locked inside) so we have been buying produce at costco because its fresher and is lasting longer than the grocery stores produce. That and we up graded the membership and now get 2% back on purchases and 3% on gas. Well that leads to other purchases at Costco as well.

So far we have found a few new favorites. They had a salsa that's medium sweetened with blue agave nectar which is great! We got the kirkland signature shampoo and conditioner and its amazing! No phosphates, no parabans and its gluten free and vegan and great for hair! Protein power bars(good stuff and on coupon this month) and the whey powder in a huge bag! We have also grown to like the kirkland signature lunch meat the ham is a big favorite! We like the turkey burgers. We also had otter pops which are now made with more juice and have less sugar! The kids like the hansen's juice boxes and me I am loving my kirkland tanks(so comfy and not cheap material so they look nice and hold up!)

Some other new things we have tried Breven is loving the kids cliff bars he takes them for his morning snack and they have good flavor and as much sugar as a tiny standard granola bar but much bigger. 45 calorie delightful sara lee bread its so good and even the kids like it. Back to basics naturals granola the only granola I have found with no nuts(Aubree is at a school that banned nuts) its pretty good stuck on a banana which is how I ate it since yogurt is not my BFF (but I have heard that greek yogurt is ok for the lactose intolerant)

Breven now has to take lunch and snacks since he is in school all day now and I was sending him with a bottle of water and he said he was always thirsty and I asked what he did and he said well I drink off the fountains but its gross and the water in the sink tastes funny. So I got him a brita water bottle with a filter. I have to say that thing works! It makes nasty tap water taste better and it keep him drinking off the germ infested water fountains. They are 9.99 each and I had coupons and the refill filters are 7.99 for 2 but you only have to change them every 200 fills which will take a while for him.

Aubree is hooked on the Leap Frog DVD's she is loving letter factory, numbers ahoy and ready for school. She is loving and learning from them. She has taken an interest in letters and sounds and wants to learn to read. I told her 1 step at a time! Speaking of reading Breven is now hooked on a new book series called fly guy its a chapter book that chronicles a fly.

Me I just got my 2nd generation BIC band http://www.bicbands.com and I have to say they rock as did my first but its over a year old and I stretched it out. She has so much selection now so I am going to need more of course. I like that it holds my bangs and I can wear it under my helmet when I ride my bike and to jazzercise.

Ok so that's my current shopping list I hope you find it useful or a spring board for you to check some new things out.

My son the daredevil

2011-08-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

We have been holding off all summer going to Soak City in Palm Springs because we had to wait for Brad he wanted to go too. We tried several times then I told him we are going on the 12th with or without you(am I not nice) So he took the day off and met all of us there(me, kids, and my mom)

Breven loves water and can swim and is 48in which means any watersilde without a life vest. So first we hit the open slides which he loved then the ones where you ride in an inner tube. Then the big huge pacific spin(he loved that all 3 of us in one raft was crazy! Then he saw it the huge 6 story(I believe) solid yellow drop slide and said "I want to go on that one" to which Brad and I said are you sure its so high? He said yes and Brad and I looked at eachother we have never even gone on that one ourselves let alone our 6 year old son! So I sent Brad with him first.

I sat and watched as my boys climbed the tower, waited their turn and then I saw it a little arm with a green flip flop hanging on his wrist it was my little man waving at me! I am sitting there thinking OMG he is going first is my husband nuts! There he was my little 6 year old boy sitting and waiting then he went! Like a shot he flew down the slide not being able to hold his arms and legs together to the huge splash at the bottom. I was expecting him to say he was done and it was too scary. But no he proved me wrong and tried going back to the top to ride it again.

Then of course I had to go with him for round 2. I couldn't keep my arms folded and whacked my elbow and got a huge wedgie! But my son was happy and stopped calling me a chicken! Then he went a 3rd time. Serious he was the youngest kid up there and there he was like it was not big deal going down this gigantic slide! That boy is too brave!

I'm Baaaack!

2011-08-12T19:48:00.000-07:00

Yes here I am and yes we are still alive. I just needed a blogging break. I felt like I needed one time to think and re-evaluate things.

I had noticed that I don't have a ton of readers, nor do I get many comments any more and decided maybe I should stop. Then I thought again that I do this for our family and to remember things, and to ramble and complain. Then I thought again and since I don't have a camera(I have a sub but its not great I wish my hubby would quit wanting the $500-$600 camera and get me another cybershot so I can be happy) no one likes to just read they want photos so I should stop. Then my brain said go back and do the best you can for you and maybe the 5-6 people who read this.

So here I am back and maybe better and maybe not. Stay tuned for end of summer information, a few random pics maybe from disneyland and few other things(but not too many as I have no camera) first days (yes days) of school for both kids and lots of thoughts, musings and other randomness from me!

I missed blogging and I miss commenting on my friends blogs but for some reason blogger will not let me leave many of you comments and I am not sure why so I am sorry for my lack of comments but I am reading them I promise!

Whats Shaking?

2011-06-21T15:38:00.000-07:00

Well things have been crazy again and with no camera I have no pics to post so some days I feel like why post(note to self beg hubby for camera) So I am just giving a words only update.

Well swimming is almost over(yea) Breven has made it to all stars for his 3 events butterfly,backstroke and free style. He is 4th in the league for his division in butterfly and freestyle not so good in backstroke. Breven is enjoying his 2 days a week at boys and girls club and is adjusting to no naps, being gone all day and playing with new and different kids.

Aubree has one more ballet class and she is done and we can start swim lessons. I am so glad we are not in the show its just a horrible expensive mess and we are looking for a different activity for her in the fall.

Brad has been riding his bike, running on the treadmill and working his booty off literally! He is down almost 20lbs in a month! He just makes smaller portions, eats snacks and works out and drinks water and there he goes he looses weight(yes I am a bit jealous) but at the same time super proud of him!

Me I have been Jazzercising my booty off (trying to get the bag for the attendance game before we run out) and I need to keep myself looking good for my getaway with my hubby this week. Rancho Las Palmas better watch out cause I am so ready for this! I have been tanning outside my legs and arms but my poor middle needs some sun!

Brad and I got new droid x2's so I am working on blogging or uploading from my phone just have to figure out the particulars(hey maybe I'll get more pics here) I am also bleaching my teeth(thank you hospitality dental for spring specials and long time patients getting it for free)I have also discovered the best App ever! Its called my fitness pal you can scan bar codes of what you eat or enter manually and tracks your calories in relation to your goal weight and exercise you do! Then there is the addicting angry birds and words with friends.

I have discovered that whey protein shakes are not bad way sweeter then I had expected though I cut it with a sour fruit or something to take the sugary edge off it. 130 calories and lots of protein is always a good thing.

Well that's about it now I am off to pack my bag for my trip and get off to swimming with the boy!

Aubree at 3

2011-06-14T11:55:00.000-07:00

Aubree is now almost 38in and barley 30lbs and is in the 50th percentile(so average though she seems so tiny) she is in great health and developmentally on track. We will continue to monitor her speech and if some of her letter issues continue she will need speech. We are hoping preschool will help. She doesn't say L's and has issues with N' and uses a lot of W's and R's.

She saw the dentist in March and her teeth are good but they said they see braces in her future because she has huge gaps! She is quite good at letting me brush her teeth and she even uses the kids fluoride rinse.

She loves to eat and eats so often I wonder where she puts it all! She eats 3 meals and 2 or 3 snacks a day. Her favorite food is mac and cheese, her favorite fruit is strawberries, and her favorite veggie is broccoli.

She has recently learned and masted her tricycle and is almost ready for the big kid bike her daddy promised her she wants the princess one with the doll seat for her baby. She has mastered the slides, climbing and is working on big kid swings.

She loves to play dollhouse, strawberry shortcake and my little pony's and her big one is blocks she loves to build she may just have inherited her daddy's engineering gene. For the most part her behavior is great(nothing like Breven at all and no issues with motor skills or any odd behaviors) she has a bit of an attitude at times and throws little fits but nothing we can't handle with a good time out.

She sleeps great and sleeps all night in her big girl bed and doesn't have any accidents which will help with school in the fall. She is going to a play based preschool program 3 days week. Its scary with Breven at school and her gone 3 days a week for 3 hours its going to be odd I have never been kid free that long before!

She loves dance but ballet is super expensive so we are thinking of switching to hula which the 2 of us can go to together! she has also taken a little interest in swimming which she is big enough for next year(she can use the kick boards) so we may have 2 swimmers which is ok with me because heck I'll be there any ways!

She is the best snuggler and is such a lovey princess. We love our little girly girl she is our little sweet pride and joy.

With out her and Breven Brad and I would not be the same we love both of them and being parents to the two of them makes our lives great.

Breven at 6

2011-06-11T17:07:00.000-07:00

I didn't do my info posts about the kids for their birthdays!

Breven at 6 years old is 48in. tall and 60lbs which puts him at the 75th percentile for weight and height which has moved him out of the danger zone for being over weight(big relief) He is a very tall young man compared to his class mates and weighs a lot more then most. He has one loose tooth and 2 that have fallen out and grown back in already. His 6 year molars are almost all the way in as well. He is become quite good at swallowing his medication and even knows why he takes it.

Breven is now in what I call the little big man stage. He thinks he is super big and can do anything but still wants mommy like a little kid. He can read very well and is in stage 2 books about mid level first grade type reading. His writing is pretty good he loves to sound out and has creative spelling some times. He is needing to work on penmanship(poor boy has horrible writing like his momma) He can count to 100 and add, subtract and knows all his shapes.

Physically he can ride a bike, and a scooter, and he can sit and ride a skateboard. At recess he has taken a liking to basketball(which I am considering putting him in later in the year) and of course he is an excellent swimming competing in 3 events the butterfly, backstroke and freestyle.

He loves to play legos, cars, draw, video games, and surprisingly doll house. He has grown so much in terms of imaginary play he plays like he should have at about age 3 with his imagination in full swing something we thought he may have missed out on.

His behavior is still a bit of a challenge he forgets who's the adult and smarts off often and we still whine. Nothing that I can't handle or dad can scare him straight with a little deep voice and taking away his things. He is never a problem at school however which is most important to me. I hate to see kids who treat school teachers and officials like crap! We still work on it and challenge it pretty frequently.

He does house chores for an allowance he empties trash cans, cleans his room, puts away his clothes, empties his parts of the dishwasher, and feeds the dog. He is very good at these things and enjoys the money he earns he has made some big purchases by saving his money for things he wants. He is even more careful about asking us to get him things because he knows we may ask him to spend his allowance.

He is now on summer vacation and will be spending some time away from home at the boys and girls club at his school to keep him active.

I never imagined what it would be like to have a 6 year old it seemed so far away. I have to say this I couldn't have asked for a more fun or interesting 6 year old and I love to see him growing up just not so fast!

To wait or not to wait??

2011-06-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

That is a question floating a lot on blogs, facebook and in mommy social circles as we finish out a school year and plan for the next. I hear alot of moms and dads too debating on when to start thier kids in kindergarten. First off let me say its a very emotionaly charged subject and people have very strong opinions either for or against waiting.

Well for some parents its an easy thing if your kids birthday falls in the guidelines of turning 5 by December first then you send them. Then there are those of us who have kids who turn 5 and will be 5 and a half at the start of the year so we get off easy. But then there are parents who are concerned about thier kids who are not yet 5 but meet the minumum guidline. Which by the way next school year 2012-2013 in California public schools will be changed to November first.

Let me start by saying I personaly pass no judgement on parents who wait or don't wait or don't care at all. I also come from a child development background my AA is in early childhood development and I have a lot of time in kindergarten without being a parent and being a parent.

Kindergarten has changed a lot since I was there 25 years ago there is so much more work in a short period of time and its hard work. Back in my day kindergarten you learned your numbers, letters, shapes and colors and how to socialize and be away from home and how the world works. In the late 90's early 2000's when I was in college I volunteered in kindergarten and it was a bit more work then I had personally remembered. I was told at that time that the no child left behind program was the reason for more academics. But the teacher that I worked with still had free play time and lots of fun little kid activites and there was no phonics and no real writing assignments and no adding going on. Flash forward to today and its so different from even the 15yrs I was gone from school.

First off a lot of kids go to academic pre-schools and come out like little kindergarteners to start with so there is a group of those kids in every class and those kids think school is boring and they need to move to first grade because they already know alot. Then there are the kids who went to a school but just know bare minimums. Then there is a group who have never been to school at all and know nothing.Now put all 3 of these types in a room together and its shocking at times how things go. So one step to know if your child is ready is to see what they already know academicly. I know its not required to start but with the ammount of work and the things they expect out of a short day and 1 year is a lot. If you can start them off with some basic knowledge and some practice you are doing a lot for them already!

The next factor to think of is thier mautrity level. In kindergarten now we have retentions there were 3 in Breven's class this year these kids are starting kindergarten well over the age of 6 and turn 7 during the year. Then we have the late birthday kids like October and November and they just turned 5 and it shows! Some kids are ok and ready at almost 5 and some are not. Some kids are ready to sit still(which is something they have to do regularly) or sit in a desk and not play in the chairs, to listen and write and follow along. If you even 5 year old is not ready for this another year of pre-school to mature them may do them and you some good. It will have them more ready for the tasks at hand when they enter. We had 2 late birthday kids in Breven's class and they were not ready and regularly had to be moved aroudn the room and sat away from eacheother(because they buddied up due to being immature together) Then there is an emotional readiness to think about is your child beyond timid? are they afraid of everything? that extra year will give them time to be more confident for you to help buid up thier confidence. We have a girl who still to this day at the end of they year cries 1-2 days out of the week over the silliest things and gets nervous to the point where she gets sick because she is afraid of the big kids being on the play ground. She is always an emotional mess(and yes she comes from a 2 parent home and has a good home life she is just a mess not anyone else) her mom dosn's even know why.

For me personally it was not a question last year if he was ready Breven had been in a mini kindergarten at pre-k (which by the way was too much and I regret some of the things he missed out on as a preschooler and a kindergartener in such an academic community) He knew how to sit still, how to listen and behave on the carpet, and he was ready academicly. Now I am not saying that academics are a bad thing they have thier place and are warranted but I think the push and all the sight words and hard work with little play at his school did some harm. (more on that in another post)

In some districts they offer what they call a transitional kindergarten program it gives those with earlier birthdays a chance to go to school at the right age and mature a little more before starting real kindergarten. It also gives those who are just not ready a chance to go to school as well and keep within the guidlines of having them in class or a program by age 6(not too sure about the legalities)

By the END of Kindergarten(notice I hilighted end not when they get in the door day 1) your child is expected to be able to count objects to 30, to be able to count out loud to 30(I will tell you they truly strive to have them count to 100) they need to know all thier letters and sounds and how to put sounds together to make words. There is a list of sight words they need to learn as well. They are expected to know thier shapes, and even 3 dimensional shapes. They are taught to read from mini books focusing both on phonetics and sight words. They are also introduced to the concept of adding and subtracting numbers. Also they need to be able to write clearly and copy.

Sounds like a lot?? It is alot and how they accomplish all this is cramming into a short day and then sending home packets of homework and flash cards for you to work with at home. Now if you are a dedicated parent and you work with your child they will do great and excell but the kids who don't well lets just say they don't fair so well.

So what do you do with that extra year at home/school? Work on basics make sure they know what they need to know.Practice writing, coloring, cutting, gluing and any other skills you think need some practice. Let them play! they miss out on so much socialization and playing let them have time to play (I have had to go back and intigrate more play time for Breven as a consequence of sending him to such an academic school to start with he has some social issues) visit places take mini field trips (the library, store tours, farms) whatever real world hands on things you can offer are great. Make things and get creative! arts and crafts are a great way to teach new skills and practice old ones. One thing I always did even with Breven's homework is make learning fun and relate it to where they are now! I still do this now that he is almost in 1st grade.

Its all up to you. You as a parent know your child better then anyone else! You know what they need and what they can do better then any one in this world. If you feel they are ready send them off and let them fly. If not then keep them in pre-school for another year let them mature and grow and learn some more. If you choose to wait I give you a lot of credit you are doing your child a great favor they may not thank you until they are adults but one day they will thank you! and thier success and love of learning will reward you greatly as they move along.

Birthday party pics

2011-06-02T10:48:00.000-07:00

Well the birthday party pics I have and the individual birthday pictures are on a different camera so I'll give what I have.

The kids party was between birthday's on the 14th the weather was perfect and we had a great party as you can see and yes the bouncer is huge and well worth it!

New and exciting

2011-05-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

Well I have yet to return with birthday pics that's because my hubby and I took most of them with his work camera and he needs to upload them first and I also need to get a camera(my hubby takes months to make a decision on what to buy me I walk in see one I like and buy)

So my hubby has taken up a new hobby for a good cause http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?px=9726828&pg=personal&fr_id=17111&s_tafId=196235

Yup my crazy man signed up for a 2 day bike race he is right now buying a bike and accessories he is doing this for the cause (he has MS) and to loose weight he has over 30lbs to lose. So I am being the ever supportive wife and helping him out. He has not even started riding and in 2 weeks with dieting alone has lost 8lbs(yea I know makes me sick too I work my buns off for months and eat carrots and water to lose 8lbs and he does it by just eating less food and being careful)

So if you are interested in donating to his team visit the site and you can do it on there even $5 helps. If you want to see him in bike shorts I may put that pic up for some laughs!

Swimming

2011-05-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

We have had an incredible season for swimming so far Breven is doing great he placed first in free style both meets and second in backstroke both meets with 5 second improvements on his times. We are super proud and now he has learned butterfly he needs work but they are entering him in anyways.

This video is him taking first place in his first meet he has never had a first place so it was huge for him!

Please excuse me while I whine a little!

2011-05-20T11:33:00.000-07:00

I promise I will be back with some fun posts pictures and videos later today I promise but right now I want to whine.....

I have been working out regularly and eating better I would not say 100% perfect for over a year now and while things have shrunk and moved there is one part of me that makes me sick and terrorizes me every day! its my stomach it looks like a huge lump of ugly pizza dough. No matter how many ab routines I do, no matter how little carbs I eat the darn thing never seems to look any better! I try hiding it as best I can with spanx, and tummy controlling pants and so on but I can't hide it in everything I wear so some days it sticks out like an ugly nasty sore thumb.

I am left to wonder is surgery my only option? Really I just don't have the money to do that. This stupid part of me is the only thing I am truly un happy with I hate it its so gross to me. Why is it that people can have babies stretch out like I did get a little tubby and boom their stomach magically shrinks away with a couple months of sensible eating and exercise but I work for over a year and mine does nothing?

I feel like I work out for almost nothing some days when I look at my self in the mirror or in certain tops(which look great everywhere else but there) I can wear a bikini for gosh sakes but my stomach makes it look all gross but the rest of its all good so some days I say screw it and wear it anyways and others I try to hide in a tankini.

So if anyone has any other options besides surgery I am looking for them I will even eat less junk if it means that this flab will disappear.

Long time no see

2011-05-04T15:36:00.000-07:00

I have been super busy to say the least but I am still alive but with no camera and lack of pictures I have not updated in forever plus birthday madness is upon us next week so I am running like crazy!

Easter was great the kids had fun and we had a great time with family.

Breven has had 2 meets swimming official(meaning for team points) He now has 2 first places in freestyle and 2 second places in backstroke and improved times.

Aubree is dancing away and is fully enrolled in her pre-school for next year

Brad loves his new car

Birthdays are next week and we are partying big as always.... for those of you that don't know in our house its Aubree's birthday on the 11th, me on the 13th and Breven on the 15th.

I interviewed for a job at Aubree's school and if enrollment is up I am a great candidate.

We went riding in the desert for the first time

Breven took his training wheels off his dirtbike

So that's whats been going on super busy and just little to no pictures because of a lack of camera and Brad has his camera at work so I can't steal his either but we are still here I promise!

Have lots to post (pics later)

2011-04-18T14:11:00.001-07:00

We have had a super busy week! After I got all the craziness of pre-school enrollment done(lets just say first come first serve means I want to be first) I still had a ton to do and Brad added to that stack!

Thursday we had a mock swim meet. Breven by the way improved his freestyle time by 10 seconds! that's a huge difference because in 6 and under there are not a lot of boys but the ones from some of the teams are just born swimmers so this makes him more competitive with them. It also leaves a lot of improvement for this year and next year closer to record times for league. He swam 25 yard freestyle 37.85 seconds.

Friday was errand day commissary shopping, toys r us run (got $126 worth of toys and games for $65 thanks to coupons)Target run and a trip to kohls and a swim practice. It was a hectic day to say the least!Then Brad called and said we are getting a new car Saturday so don't make plans.

We have been discussing it for a few weeks now we both have big cars but on a good note both are paid for. But with the price of gas and diesel going so high up the gas bill is killing us! So to save money we got a small car a chevy cruze which gets 38mpg compared to the 15-17 we get in our other cars. When Brad has a company car I will be driving it along with out of town trips.We are very fortunate to not have to finance the car my dad helped out and we are paying him back to avoid finance charges and apr so its still reasonable.

Sunday we went to church and shopping which if you check our church's website you can look at the video of Aubree waving a flag during a few songs.

School year 2011-2012

2011-04-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

I will officially have 2 kids in school starting in the fall. Aubree got in at the somewhat local co-op preschool 3 days a week and Breven moves on to full day school 1st grade. Wow this is huge for the first time in 6 years I will have kid free time on a regular basis! Its super exciting.

The great thing about the co-op preschool is that I get to participate on a regular basis in Aubree's early education and in turn it lowers the price that we pay allowing us to put her into school for 2 years instead of just 1. I have to work in the class room 2 days a month and that combined with my committee job will be how we pay the difference. Parents pick up a lot of the tasks allowing the school to hire less helpers and pass the savings along to the families that participate.

I will still work in Breven's school as well depending on who his teacher is (I have heard rumors that some teachers don't allow parent volunteers in their rooms which upsets me) I have a long wait to see who Breven has next year as a teacher we don't find out until the Friday before school starts. I know who I would like for him to have but having to cut down teachers at that grade level my see changes in staffing. There are I think 3 or 4 first grade classes with about 20 kids each and there are only 60 or so kids going to first grade next year from the current class.

This is all super exciting for me I will have time to get things done without the kids and get them done faster! I am hoping this will help me keep the house cleaner and get my workout schedule back on track a bit more. I also plan to use the extra time to keep up on my deals and couponing and taking care of things better for us as a family.

Aubree will get to make new friends, learn and get some away time without it being too much for her at 3. She is excited she says she can't wait to paint, draw and play at her school and she is happy mommy comes to class sometimes.

Its also sad for me my babies will be 6 and 3 in a matter of a month and well I'll be older too but I am not going there! They are growing up so fast and sometimes I want to hold on to them and say stop and keep them at the ages they are just a little bit longer.

A week that wasn't too exciting!

2011-04-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

Yup that's my title because this week was a typical week. I was hoping to get some swim practice pictures of Breven up but this week it got so cold Thursday that I could hardly get warm and Friday it was cancelled due to snow..... OK well I guess that's exciting we got snow. I woke up this morning and our yard had a nice dusting of fresh snow.

This weekend nothing much is planned either as its too cold and too wet to be outside much so here we are Saturday morning playing in the house. The kids are playing cops and Brad and I are on our computers listening to them play.

Also this week we decided to give both kids a joint birthday party with a Phineas and Ferb theme. Its gender neutral and both kids like the show and I have some fun creative ideas going to jazz things up.

So this week I plan to post a bit more and see how things are going. I have some knitting projects to show off lots of scarves and I am almost done with a baby blanket which I am not wanting to give away!

Dancer of the day

2011-04-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

Yup Aubree was dancer of the day which means she was a good listener, tried her hardest, and had dancers hair (which means a bun) and she had her shoes and proper outfit on.

Issues with blogger!

2011-03-29T14:27:00.000-07:00

Well I am not sure but my last post had no spaces! Sorry! Ok so I am asking again anyone have any suggestions or help for someone who is interested in running but has never run before like a plan or a workout guide or any help at all! This girl has never run and wants to run about 3 days a week while Breven swims at practice.

Weekend update

2011-03-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

Well it was a busy week and weekend as usual! We were out and about a lot running errands, meetings and general housework. Friday I got my new glasses very stylish I may add! then we had lunch and went to swimming. Its been a tough week she has had the kids swimming 500-600 yards each day so Breven is working hard. Me not so much I sit and watch or direct kid traffic on the other end of the pool(which I like I get to know his teammates) Saturday Aubree and I went out and got her tap and ballet shoes just the two of us for some girl time! She loved shopping with me and even got lunch. The best part is when its just her she doesn't have to use the stroller or shopping cart in stores. We finished off the say with family time in the loft that evening because poor Brad had a back ache pretty bad(not sure why every ache and pain with MS you never know what to make of it) Sunday we went to church and Costco and a few other errands then chatted with a newer neighbor. Breven had a major scooter crash so he was in a lovely mood :( then we ordered in dinner and had family time. Today is Monday the first day of Breven's spring break and its not going to be a very exciting one my mom has been sick, Brad has out of town meetings so we are pretty much staying home. Does anyone ever feel guilty if you don't do something big or exciting on your kids school breaks? I feel bad 2 kids in his class are taking resort style vacations and my kids never have. I guess we have different priorities then some families because I have had many tell me vacations are necessary and to put them on credit cards and that's not how we roll! So I am working on something fun this week but its hard to do alone and on a small budget. I am also thinking about something to do during Breven's swim practices its 1hr 3 times a week and most days I sit there freezing and Breven gets distracted by me so I have to move out of his visual range. So I was thinking about taking up running 3 days a week instead of doing nothing. But here is the thing I have never run before? In school I did some pretty low things to get me out of running the timed mile(nothing dirty just not very moral lets say) then as an adult it was hard because unknown to me my deviated septum made it impossible to get enough air having me diagnosed with exercise asthma not lack of air. So with my nose fixed and my fitness level up I was thinking running may help me get over that last 3lb hump I have yet to pass! I am also looking to flatten my belly more.(but I have been told that some of it is tissue damage and muscle damage that only surgery can fix) So anyone with beginning runners advice or websites or plans please pass those along.

Tiny dancer

2011-03-23T15:48:00.001-07:00

After asking her daddy since January he finally gave in and let Aubree take dance class. I found a local studio that has a ballet tap combo class in the mornings and today was her first day. There are no pictures allowed in the studio except the first class of the month so I took these at my moms.

She got all dressed and mommy made her a pretty almost perfect bun and we headed in. She loved class and needs to work a little bit on listening and taking directions but she was happy. So this week we are getting the leather ballet shoes and tap shoes so she has all the necessary supplies for class next week.

She loved chasseing around the room and tapping in her regular shoes(imagine when she gets the taps) I hope she likes dance as much as I did when I was little because I would love to be a dance momma!

Whole house fan

2011-03-22T14:37:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are friends of the hubby on facebook will know that he put in a whole house fan over the weekend. Its pretty big and took a lot of work but he is super happy he did it. For those of you wondering what that is here is a little example....

So lets say its a hot day but at night it gets lower in temperature outside and because your house takes forever to cool off you leave your AC on even though its cooler outside, because its hard to cool your inside or in our case your 2nd story. A whole house fan takes air in through your windows cycles it through your attic and pushes hot air out. It is a huge money saver during the summer(we had one at house #1) and you get an energy rebate from Edison once you buy one.

We are hoping to lower our AC bill because during the summer it gets pretty high and with the doctors saying heat makes MS symptoms worse we have to keep Brad and the house cool. This also helps the kids sleep at night because they are heaters like their daddy :)

This particular model is as quiet as a fridge which is great because in house #1 it was old school and loud! I will let everyone know when the true test of the fans ability and usefulness comes up this summer.

Our House Guest

2011-03-19T10:31:00.001-07:00

This is Koda he is our guest for the next week. His owners had to to go Virginia to visit a family member with ALS who isn't doing well. He has never been away from his family so a kennel was out of the question so we offered to keep him. The kids love him and he is almost better behaved then our own dog!

Zoo Pics

2011-03-19T10:29:00.001-07:00

Breven's 2nd trimester report card

2011-03-13T11:29:00.000-07:00

Was awesome! His teacher is super thrilled with him and all his progress. She is going to be doing some reading assessments on him and 3 other kids to get a more accurate gage as to where they are in class. She also did a writing sample and his writing is at about a 1st grade level he just needs to work on penmanship (he gets that from me I have horrible penmanship) He knows all the math concepts he needs to know and shows a great interest in whats coming up soon like telling time and adding.

She said socially he is doing great and is a major helper and a leader when they get new students(which has happened a lot since January) He has friends and has rare issues with behavior in class. He usually is perfect for her which is great.

We were so thrilled to hear all the good things that he has been doing so we took him to dinner that night and my mom is taking him shopping for a reward(in our house the rewards for grades are important we encourage academics) so he gets a few things.

In other Breven news he has half the moneys saved for his police boat he wants he has been saving tooth fairy money and allowance to earn his lego and is half way there! He has also got another wiggly tooth. He started swim season (he is a bit rusty and needs some work)

Things are going great and soon to come new zoo pics! and hopefully some backyard pictures as Brad has been planting new trees.

Was it worth it??

2011-03-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

I have had a few people ask me if the surgery that I had was worth it because it was elective and not totally necessary to keep me alive and my answer it yes! All the pain, all the blood, all the grossness, all the time lost, getting sick everything was worth it.

I had my doubts myself if what I was doing was going to help me but after they pulled out the packing and the swelling went down and I got my first real big breath of air through my nose it was great! I started sleeping better, my breath got better(yea), It was easier to take my nasal spray and most all of it stayed in. Its been great I get so much more air in when I breathe and I don't find myself mouth breathing as bad. I don't snore or sleep with my mouth wide open causing cotton mouth.

I will say that my scaring is a bit more then I had expected because he said he had to cut in more then he had expected. I had the surgery to stop my nose bleeds a deviated septum causes crowding of vessels and bleeding. When he got in he said he had to take out more bone and cartilage because at some point in my life I broke my nose and didn't know it and it healed wrong causing the deviation. So it fixed the vessels and stopped the bleeding, it opened a larger airway, and it helps to de-congest my nose.

So all in all I would say at this point even with the setbacks and such that yes deviation repair or septoplasty was totally worth it and the bonus in it all better breathing and some shrinking of my bump on the side of my nose.

Aubree Nalei Pensak at 2 3/4

2011-03-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh I just checked out the calendar today and realized in 2 months you will be 3. No longer a toddler, no longer a baby but now a pre-schooler. I can't believe it my last baby is no longer a baby but now a kid.

You are a little bit of a girl. You are all of 27lbs and about 36 inches tall. You need bigger sized clothing then your taller frame allowed. Most of your pants are now high waters because you are longer. You could still wear a 24mo or a 2t but I have to get 3t's otherwise you look like a poor kid with ill fitting stuff. You have long hair I have cut off about 2 inches of it and its still super long and you don't want us to cut it. We use it as a threat some times like if you don't let us wash and brush it we will cut it off. You have big blue eyes that you use to your advantage with those eyelashes to get your daddy wrangled into getting your way!

You are an interesting girl to say in the least. You love your dolls, kitchen and dollhouse. You also love to play with Breven's cars and make monster truck races. You have an imaginary friend named Sonia who comes over to play and make trouble often. You love to read and use your toys like your ixl and your tag reader to have them read you books as well as I read to you and you have 3 books memorized that you read to your dolls.

You love to eat! Some mornings all you do is eat. You get up have breakfast and sometimes 2-3 snacks before lunch. You love yogurt, goldfish, cheerios, princess chicken noddle soup, and anything mexican. You like to think your a big girl and toss your booster seat off the chair but Mommy makes you put it back because otherwise you get food on the chairs and your dad has a meltdown. You have the fork and spoon mastered but still prefer hands to eat.

You love to socialize you like to go to jazzercise and play with your friends, you love frogs at church and you are anxious to go to school or ballet soon. You love to sing and dance anywhere you can! You even sing for your Nana and pop pop at their house. You love to have conversations on the phone with anyone who will talk to you. You are our out going social butterfly.

One part of your personality that isin't fun is you are a stubborn girl! You have to learn everything the hard way! You always make things more difficult then they need to be. You also have a girl attitude with folded hands and pouty faces. You have a mean streak as well poor Breven has gotten lots of bites and pinches when he makes you mad.

You are a big imitator you love to do what Breven does. I see you trying to look at letters and numbers and figure them out, you answer the tv when it asks questions and you are usually right. You want to go to school and learn. You want to do homework and read like Breven. You try to answer me like him and do anything bubby does.

You are a girly girl! You love dress up, bows, makeup and hair. You love pink and pretty though you are not a big dress fan (but honestly neither is mom) You love to shop for clothes and shoes not only for yourself but for mom too. You are the best shopping partner!

You are a daddy's girl after my surgery you had to rely on daddy a lot more and I think it helped your bond more. You love daddy and ask him to do things for you all the time and you give him the sad face to get your way!

You are snuggler on your terms when you want, where you want and how you want. You love to cuddle in moms bed and watch cartoons in the mornings, and snuggle daddy on weekends. You love to sit on laps and watch tv or do things together.

Miss Aubree you are our little princess and you are growing up way too fast for mom's liking. We love you and your sweet voice and personality.

Egypt

2011-03-07T11:19:00.000-08:00

Breven got the privilege to participate in our Church's production of Egypt Josephs journey from prison to palace this last month. The play was written by church members and the songs were all arrange by them too. Unfortunately there are not many pictures as after 4 almost 5 years of faithful service my camera is now broken. I t may be that pesky sand that got in there when I took the kids to the beach. So until I get a new one I have to use Brads work camera when he is home I do have some pictures of him in his costume and that's about it

He was in the choir and he played one or Josephs brothers. He loved the experience and says he likes being on stage and singing so I have a feeling there will be drama in our future!

Sick

2011-03-07T09:24:00.000-08:00

Well this weekend has been interesting. Aubree had a slight cold for a few days and I got her all better with fluids, rest and dimeatap and then I started to feel bad. But being me I decided just to take dayquil and suck it up because the hubby says I am a wimp and waste co-pays on viral infections.

So as the weekend went on it got worse and last night was the final straw so this morning I went to urgent care because seeing a regular physician same day is impossible. Well I was sick I have strep! It has blown through Breven's class 2 times so I am assuming that's where I got it. The worst part of it all is that I still can't blow my nose! So here I am all snotty and sore and can't blow my nose!

I did get to read 2 chapters of my ebook while waiting and I am working on knitting since I am supposed to be resting and not doing much. (Which with that and surgery my house is in need of a deep clean) I am keeping up but not doing the huge tasks and its showing!

Today my dad took my prescription in and took Breven to school and is picking him up for me so I can rest here at home and pray my kids don't get what mom has. We have a trip to the zoo planned for Friday and I am determined to go! Its our last one before our passes expire.

Aubree is much better he nose is less runny and her eyes are less goopy(I don't know whats with this girl but every time she gets a cold it seems she gets some eye infection as well) Now if she would stop with the accidents I would be happy. I don't know what her deal is but all of a sudden she is having accidents again right by the potty. I think she is waiting too long and is getting to the bathroom too late. I am thinking about getting some diapers to prove a point that if she wants panties she has to be dry. Also her daddy told her that if she continues to have accidents he is taking her doll house away so she better get it together.

The great debate

2011-03-05T09:45:00.000-08:00

There is a great deal of debating going on in our house. We have found an opportunity to get Aubree into pre-school at age 3 I am all for it! Its a 3 hour either 2 or 3 day a week program for this year then a 5 day 5hr program the next year. Brad however isn't. His reasoning is that it isn't fair for Aubree to get 2yrs of preschool when Breven only had 1.

My point is that Aubree is different from Breven. She doesn't have the motor skill delays, doesn't need the intense OT and things that her brother did. Socially she is ready as well she isn't as clingy or needy for me as her brother was. At 3 I can tell you honestly he was not ready for preschool and at 4 he was. But miss Aubree is totally different. She is watching her brother go to school and wants to go. She is playing with his educational items and trying to learn. I want her to see that we do care and show an interest so we want her to go to school. She tries to find letters in things and makes sounds, she needs to play with more kids.

She also didn't get some of the same opportunities Breven did to go out and do some of the things he did. The economy was different and money was different at that time. Breven got to go to more things and the library was not as crowded for the pre-school programs. Its just so much harder now and to have to work around Breven's school schedule this year is not easy!

This preschool opportunity is also much more affordable then Breven's was allowing us to get 2 years for the price of 1yr at Breven's old school. It also allowed me to be involved in the class room and at the school.

I am not sure what the outcome is going to be but she is high up on the list to get in so I am hoping in the next month to change my husbands mind and Aubree gets the chance she wants to go to school.

Stepping down off the box

2011-03-02T12:59:00.000-08:00

Ok so I am going to step off my soapbox for a minuet and explain a few things. Ok first off I love to volunteer in Breven's class its one of my favorite things to do during the week. I love everything I do there from stapling packets, to sorting things, to playing librarian, and working with the kids who need extra help. I love it all! You have to remember that one day not too long ago my dream was to teach Kindergarten.

So why do I get on the soap box about parents its because it breaks my heart to see bright intelligent children being robbed of opportunities to excel like most of their class mates because their parents don't want to help them or take the time to pitch in. Sure a lot of parents work full time but how long is 5min? I know some of us have other kids but 5min a day? I know our kids have a lot of activities but its only 5min. There are kids repeating Kindergarten or moving to first grade so far behind when all they want to do is be like the others. I even had one girl tell me that she wished her mom would read with her like Breven and I do every day. It just kills me to hear that.

Will my disappointments make me stop caring nope! Will they make me stop helping? No will they make me feel bad for the parents? No but I will feel bad for the kids who miss out and slip through the gaps.

Do I blame parents for everything? no not at all. Some kids have unidentified learning difficulties, some of them have undiagnosed medical or psychological issues. I don't blame parents for those things but maybe a little more help on our parts can help them out? Breven was identified early as having issues and is on a proper ADD medication and that issue went away but we still struggle with things and I have to make accommodations for him to get past them. We have a schedule that we stick to all the time, we have a homework routine with breaks, we have a designated reading area and sissy doesn't join us for that time. I just learned what worked for him and I do it that way.

Report cards for parents

2011-03-01T15:46:00.000-08:00

So I was watching the Today show at my parents while waiting on Aubree to finish a snack this morning and a story ran about a lawmaker in the state of Florida who wanted to give report cards to parents. The areas graded were their child's attendance, their communication with the school, completion of their child's homework and the state that their child arrives at school(ie rested and fed and ready to learn.) I saw this and said heck yea. I think that parents should be held accountable for their students. We wonder why when the education system is trying their best and the students fail where are the parents this would hold them accountable.

Now I didn't agree with doing this for older students when your kids get to high school they are responsible for themselves but in a k-5 arena I see it as totally valid! For example I work in Breven's room 3.5 hours a week and I see a lot of parent failure going on.

First off school offers free or reduced breakfast to students who qualify the only thing is that the kids have to be at school early enough to get it. There are 2 girls in Breven's class that are regularly in class without breakfast because they said mom didn't get up and we couldn't leave. Come on people our school doesn't start until 8:25am and you as a mother who isn't working should be up by 8am to get your kids to school! Yes she has told the school she has not worked and its hard to get up in the mornings and most days she just sends the kids off and doesn't even walk them into the office for them to talk to her.

Another group of kids have lost countless books, homework packets, folders and class room items. They never touch their reading bags(they send home 5 mini easy reader books for the kids to practice.) How hard is it to find 5min a week to read with your child? Homework packets are the same thing how hard is it to make sure your child does their work? In kindergarten the packets are small whats going to happen in years to come?

Another group that frustrates me are the parents who's kids are receiving speech services and fail to help the kids with their speech work or practice their reading. The school is giving your child a free service that if you had to pay for is about $95 an hour and that's a low ball estimate why not help it along? Breven had private speech therapy and occupational therapy and I would never not do the work they sent home with us.

Parents who regularly are getting the kids to school late or picking them up late. Ok I understand there are times when we all run late. I have done it but I don't make a habit of it. I see the same kids going to the office once a week or more for late pick ups and I see the same kids coming to class late on a regular basis.

I think all these kids in these categories are being robbed of a part of their education and its their parents fault! So if we held parents accountable and made them responsible for a part of their child's education maybe they would take things a bit more seriously. So I say go Florida and if they can pass it anyone can!

Breven Doyle Pensak 5 & 3/4

2011-03-01T10:34:00.000-08:00

Breven I can't believe that you will be 6 in 2 1/2 months. How did you go from the tiny baby I brought home to the big boy you are today? Its amazing to think that 6 years ago I was still working full time, living in a tiny 2 bedroom house(that was full of baby stuff) and you were floating around in my belly. Now here you are almost 6 years later and such a big boy. Where did the time go?

You are currently almost 49 inches tall you are the second tallest in your class and that's only because the boy that is taller then you is a repeat kindergartner. You currently wear a size 1 shoe, 8 pants and 8 shirts. We had to cut your hair down for swimming but we usually leave it a little long for your signature spikes. Everyone at school knows you boy your spikey hair! In the last year you have relay thinned out. We made some dietary, medication and activity changes which has made you healthier only gaining inches and not much weight. You have long legs that's why the big pants I still have to go and sinch the waist unless I can find 8 slims or 7 talls. You still have big blue eyes and sneaky boy smile.

You love school but play that you don't! You like to read but don't like the fact that you have to sit still and focus to do it! Your teacher has you on the highest level books in her class and I have you reading higher books here at home with me as well. On Sunday you picked up your sisters card from the frog room and read most of the story by yourself! Your teacher says you are a leader and like to be the one in charge, you also are one of the kindest boys in her class. You have helped all the new students acclimate to her class and how things are done and have been willing to be their biddies. You like math but not the numbers you like the geometry, and measurement factors. I can always find your art in class because if you can make it green its green.

At home you love to play Legos and make all sorts of vehicles for your people and houses for them to live in. You have begun to put together the sets without our help. You like your nintendo ds but we wish you didn't sometimes. You are beginning to like your tag reader and are getting back into your cars. You are an awesome bike rider no training wheels for you and you even ride on the taller kids bikes. We did have to banish some of your favorite television shows but know we did this to help your attitude and behavior since banning them you have been a much nicer and less rude boy!

You love to eat. You live on PB&J for breakfast but like egg burritos as well. You stopped taking snacks for school because it cuts into play time so when you get home you are starving! You love to have a sandwich, fruit and milk for lunch then you go take a nap most days. Your favorite restaurant is still Red Robin and El Charro and you like Bakers, McDonalds, and Subway for quick meals. You love chocolate like your momma and any chocolate in our house has to look out for you! I did have to move all the snacks to a higher cabinet because we found you sneaking extra snacks. You are a well rounded eater you have few issues with what we make for meals.

You still love snuggles and tickles. You spend a lot of time in mommy and daddy's bed cuddling us in the evenings and in the mornings and weekends. We have lots of snuggle time in our house. You have also started to take care of and show more love for the dog. You snuggle her, you feed her and you take care of her for us. You are still a bit mean to your sister but for the most part you are a great older brother. You two play together so well that I almost hate to disturb you to take naps or to have dinner sometimes. You hate homework time I am working on a method to help this but I still have had no luck.

You love your Nana and Pop-Pop its just hard to have sleepovers like you used to because of your school schedule but we always try to stop by around school times since we have to pass their house to get to school and all our school related mail goes there.

You are taking a medication for ADD I am not sure if that's your official diagnosis but the medication has helped you to mature and control yourself better and others are noticing the positive changes in you. Its a non-stimulant medication and it has few negative side effects. I can see that it works and I hope in the future you realize what a tough choice it was to medicate you and the process to get you there. You no longer need all the therapies you used to attend and I think that is a combination of life skill practice, medication and maturity. You have changed so much from where you were at 3 we were afraid we were loosing you and we have succeeded in bringing you back!

Breven we love you so much and you will always be our little boy our B-man, Mr B, Breven D, and dude. Mom and Dad are so proud of you and who you are never change your loving kindness and beautiful spirit.

Educational toy review

2011-02-28T13:05:00.000-08:00

The Fisher Price iXL this toy was better then I had anticipated. First off it has little storage room so head to best buy and get a 2gb sd card and you will be happy. Aubree loves this and has 3 games plus the one it came with all loaded. The games are fun, entertaining, easy to follow, and the stories it reads are fun. One downside is there are not a lot of girly themed games at this time and it takes forever to upload to. It also is an MP3 player so she has music on it that plays on its own or during the drawing function. Aubree is good at the Kailan pack a snack and she loves the art studio. I had to get re-chargeable batteries for this one because she loves it so much.

The leapfrog world builder(we have the older one called a word whammer) it uses the magnetic fridge letters and teaches your child how to build words. It has different games like fill in the blank, build your own words and one other. Breven likes this one it builds a lot on what he has learned in school. One downside is that you have to have more then one set of letters to spell more words.
Fridge Phonics. Aubree loves this and has picked up a lot of letter sounds and loves to sing the song.
I know these are pricey but I love our Tag reader. Breven has the toy story 3 one and loves it the only part is the books are expensive. The games are challenging and they teach many subjects. You have the option of it just reading the story, sounding out the words or playing games. They even have like step into reading series that focus on phonics. He loves his rewards that get un-locked as he plays and the learning path keeps track of his progress and time spent in each book and what it covers.
The Tag junior I know it looks like a standard tag but each system only can use its own books no mixing. Aubree has the alien hat I picked up on a killer special and with coupons. She has lots of books as they were changing titles when I got it so some were on clearance. It reads the story, it has sounds and even interactive games. Aubree loves for it to read her the story and she is so great at the games. It even says hi and goodbye to her by name! It offers the same things on learning path and is easy to use and pretty sturdy.

Being a good steward of creation

2011-02-28T08:56:00.000-08:00

This was an interesting topic that was brought up in church yesterday. It first started out of why worship of nature isin't such a good idea but taking care of the nature and the earth is a good idea as long as it doesn't turn into worshiping something other then God. Which led me to thinking about instead of calling the things we do for the planet as being "green" but instead calling it being a good steward of creation. I have decided to use this to teach my kids as well using this term. So it made me think of some of the things and examples I can use for this term in teaching it to the kids.

In our house we recycle we use the city provided bins for things that are not worth too much money or hassle to take to the recycling locations. We recycle for money our #2 plastics and our aluminum cans. I have told the kids its good for the planet and we save the money for our annual trip to Disneyland. We recycle all of our newspapers(Which is only relay the small local one other then that I read online.) I hand down all my magazines or we use them for Breven's school work. We re-use plastic bags and when we do our big commissary shopping they bag it in paper which we either donate to the school or we recycle. Anything that can go in the city bin goes in no questions asked. We also save a few things for arts and crafts projects. I have found cereal boxes to be useful as cardboard for projects!

We usually buy big packages and use our re-use able containers to make our own mini snacks, and Breven has a stainless container for water and drinks for school. We recycle Breven's school paper and our paper shreds from our office. We melt old crayons to new ones thanks to our crayola crayon maker(which are being clearanced out at most stores because the light bulbs used will soon be banned) I will say we potty trained early not to be eco friendly but because I got sick of diapers! I have also taught the kids that when they are done with a toy or clothing that we need to hand it to someone else who can use it!

Appliances are a great place to be more conscious and the benefit is it saves $. Washing in cold water is a big money saver along with full loads, and using the dryer on lower setting. It also makes the clothes last longer! We don't leave un-necessary things plugged in. On our counters are our appliances but most of the time they are left un-plugged ghost power is a big money waster!(yes this is a true statement not just some campaign Edison came up with) Our household heater has a programmable thermostat so you can program the heat or air to be on when you need it and off when you don't.

We take care of our yard with mild chemicals and we always recycle the yard waste(I want to compost my hubby says no) We take care of our plants and trees and grass and we make sure the yard is full of things that grow well in the area its pretty and it helps with shade and things year round. We do have a few edible plants but we are gardening this year for the first time in a long time I hope things survive my brown thumb.

As a family we are going to try and be more conscious of what we are doing to impact the planet that God created for us and care for things in better ways so that the planet is left to our children in the future.

Dear Old Navy

2011-02-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

Dear Old Navy,

You have always been a trusted place to get awesome clothing. You always have the best jeans that fit me just right. I have found yoga pants in a size small long that I love. You stock adorable mommy muffin top hiding shirts, and great flip flops. You have incredible deals for my kids along with super fun items.

But I have one problem one issue with something you make. You always have things that are great for mommy bodies but one item has failed to meet that need. Your swimsuits. There are fantastic colors, patterns, bottom styles and great style but not a single swimsuit top has under wire! Some of us ladies have been blessed with boobs and sometimes they are not always perky and perfect as they used to be so we need a little help to keep the girls up and looking cute in our swim wear. We need a little lift, a little push a little help to keep the girls where they belong and looking good. Even smaller chested girls need the same thing because to be honest teens and girls who have not had babies should take care of that starting now so they continue to look nice as you age!

That leads us girls that need more support going to more expensive stores to shop! Yup VS is a popular one, or sports suit sites like your cousin athleta have great options but not as cute as yours. So with that said I think you should consider adding a little under wire at a low price to some swim suits to raise sales and boobs that need help.

Thank You for your time

Charlee Pensak
loyal customer and mom of 2

This week

2011-02-25T07:16:00.000-08:00

My poor kiddos have had a boring week with mom being not 100% and the weather being cold and icky my kiddos have been stuck at home a lot! It has been a real test in getting along for the two of them, and a test for me to parent with patience while in pain.

Monday Brad was home and the excitement for the day was haircuts both kids went to the salon and everyone got a haircut. Breven's hair is shorter then usual with swim season coming up we had to cut it down to put the cap on and to dry faster. Tuesday I got up early got ready and took the kiddos to my parents and my dad took me to the doctor to have the packing taken out (what a relief that was) then the monsters had to spend the afternoon with painkiller sleepy mom. I can function but I am not happy and I can't drive. So we spent the afternoon coloring, snacking and watching tv. I did manage to get to Michaels for some more yarn I am working on scarves to be used as gifts and I have gotten pretty far.

Wednesday I was feeling brave so I took the kids to the park. It was freezing but they needed to get out then our friends went to lunch and we went with. I paid for it when I got home I had a huge pressure headache and had to lay down(and take 2 pain killers). Thankfully dinner was an easy one my family settled for hamburger helper. Thursday my pressure headache was back so I had made plans to stay home. My mom came by and dragged me out to have lunch she said I have to get out before I strangle my kids from making me crazy. So we had lunch and went to best buy and got Aubree some memory for her toy then came home. The kiddos napped and I did laundry and rested my headache. I also made some bread for dinner and make a roasted turkey breast(which was good)

Today is Friday I am thinking about setting up a coloring activity and a few other things as we are home again today. I also want to get some knitting done and some laundry (my laundry pile got pretty big) it may snow this weekend so I am working on plans to keep everyone active while we are trapped indoors.

My funny get well card

2011-02-24T06:29:00.000-08:00

Sunday the kiddos went to church with dad and I couldn't go so when they got home Brad said Aubree made me something. He brought this in its me with a band aid on my nose. My funny girl made me something special and the whole house had a great laugh!

On the upswing

2011-02-22T15:51:00.000-08:00

Today they took out the packing from my nose. Pretty much it was a huge medical sponge. He said it looked good and straight (the septum) they only had to cauterize my turbinates (a part in your upper nose) and no removal. He did comment about my reach of my arms to almost hit a nurse when I couldn't breathe through my nose and wanted to see if I had bruising on my arms. I personally do not remember doing this at all but I guess waking me up is dangerous business.

It was nice to breathe through my nose for a while that was until the sinuses that have been all plugged with cotton got opened so I am a bit clogged but I have a clear air path which feels wider. For the next 3 weeks no blowing my nose, no bending forward to put pressure on it, no rubbing or excessive movement for my nose, I have to spray saline spray and use a netti pot to keep it all clean. When I go back in 3 weeks he will make sure its still straight and properly healed and then we can discuss allergy stuff since the season is almost upon us.

To the 3 wonderful friends who brought us meals. I want to send out a huge thank you! Brad had enough to worry about making sure the kids and I were ok and to take dinner off his hands was a huge help. The meals tasted good to me and the kids and hubby were happy and said they were good as well.

Don't know what you got till its gone

2011-02-20T10:19:00.000-08:00

As most of you already know I had surgery Friday morning to repair a severely deviated septum (so bad the doc wanted to fix it as soon as he saw me and asked how I managed to breathe) With that said the surgery went well. Friday morning I dropped the kids off to my parents and then Brad took me in. My nurse was a fellow Jazzerciser so we had lots to talk about to keep me from being nervous. My anesthesiologist was a cute (like I feel guilty now for going all goo goo in front of the hubby) they knocked me out did what they had to do and next thing I know I am in recovery asking for Brad and caffeine! I had a raging headace all morning from lack of coffee thats pretty bad!

They had to repair in both sides of my nose and I have no details because Brad didn't pay attention to what he said so I'll hear about the damage Tuesday. I got home and rested and I wasn't in too bad of pain until that evening. Poor Brad got crying in pain and miserable Charlee. She is not nice she whines, she swears, she cries she makes her nose bleed so bad it needed its dressing changed 3 times. But we pulled through got me to bed and by Saturday I was doing ok.

The bad part is you can't breathe through your nose only your mouth. Which has made me miss my sense of smell. I can't smell my kids or hubby when they are all shower fresh, I can't smell my wonderful clean sheets, or my food before I eat it. Which is great having my friends once again bringing me meals since I can't cook. But I can't smell their wonderful aroma when they open the containers. I miss all the wonderful smells around me! The other downer is dry mouth. Sleeping with your mouth open and no nose is horrible! My throat is dry and I have never had such bad cotton mouth in all my life! The good news is I have drank tons of water.

Today there was snow on the ground and I can't even go out to visit it! I baked bread in the machine and can't smell its goodness. I missed church which I am about to view online (thank goodness for that) I can't even smell my beautiful cup of coffee.

Ok enough whining. I continue to feel better and I look better (well as good as I can with gauze and sponges shoved in my nose) Tuesday they pull out the packing so now I will know what its like to get a full breath of air through my nose and not have to go half nose and mouth, no more getting winded too fast from nose breathing and hopefully less sinus and nose bleed issues.

To my family and friends helping us out. Thank you so much! I can't begin to explain how appreciated all your help is even if its just a simple dinner or a load of laundry.

Hard

2011-02-16T15:22:00.001-08:00

Well I told you that Sunday Brad started daily injections for his Multiple Sclerosis(MS) and it has not been easy. Sunday the training nurse came by to do injection 101 for both of us she said I have to learn in case he can't do it for himself. So we practiced with fake medicine in real needles for a few times then came the real thing. He had to inject himself he managed to do it correctly but had a hard time getting the grip on the needle to push the medicine in on his leg. Immediately his site began to swell and a nice bump appeared(which is normal.)

We were supposed to get an autoeject but it had not arrived yet so he had to do normal injections until it arrived so Monday after the kids went to bed and we had some mommy and daddy time he went to do his injection for the night. He had an easier time then the first one but this time he had an after effect of feeling sick, and flushed(which again they said is normal.) It was so hard to hear him downstairs fumbling with the shot he didn't want me there so I stayed upstairs while he did it. But he didn't look good when he returned upstairs and went to bed.

Yesterday the Autoeject arrived and that night it was time to use it. I was super worn out so I listened for a while while he set up and waited but I guess I fell asleep because he said he spent 20min deciding if he was going to give himself the shot or not. He had a hard time shooting himself with a pen. He got another welt but luckily no feeling weakened or tired.

He never knew it would be hard to sit there and decide to do it or not. In the end he decides to give himself the shot because his doctor has said to him do you enjoy your life now?? well the injections will help keep you that way longer.

Its even harder for me because I can't do it for him decide to do the shots or not nor can I give him the shots all the time(well I could but I have not done it at all yet and honestly I can't even take a splinter out without crying.)

Bang- Pop

2011-02-12T15:21:00.000-08:00

That describes my mid-day today! This weekend so far has been a disaster yesterday was the Subway incident today I am driving on the 10 freeway headed to take Breven to rehearsal at Church. My morning was going great Brad went dirt biking the kids were ok minimal tears. Then we had a nice breakfast I cleaned up the kids got showers and I showered and we were all ready looking good and on time(I was so happy)

Then bang pop. I heard a bang and then my car said check tire pressure and we pulled off to the nearest parking lot. My dad asked why a parking lot well with 2 kids alone mid day I new one would have to potty or get out. So a parking lot was a good choice. I called my dad because Brad is gone and asked him to pick up the kids because from past experience tow trucks do not like taking kids and usually don't have room for car seats. My plan was to have the car towed and change the tire. They wanted to put me on a spare(which doesn't work when you have speciality tires and rims)

My dad made it and while he was attempting to see what was wrong Breven started throwing up! It was quite an impressive amount of puke! We got him all done before the tow truck arrived. My dad stayed with the car and I took the kids to my parents to await my cars return. Luckily we are good friends with the tire shop owner and he got me a used tire to use until my new one arrives Monday.

We got my car back and Breven said he didn't want to eat he wanted to go home so I got Aubree and I lunch and headed home where Breven proceeded to throw up again. I cleaned him up and then he went to sleep. I have Aubree napping too while I drink a huge coke zero and eat ice cream to cap off my crappy day.

I hope tomorrow is better its Sunday it has to be!

Had my first public bad mommy moment

2011-02-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday it happened I had my first bad mommy moment in a public place!

Fridays Breven gets to choose lunch for himself at any restaurant he would like for a good school week courtesy of my dad(a good week means before school, during school and pick up.) With it being any footlong month at Subway that was his choice. As most of you know subway restaurants are notoriously small and crowded so usually my mom keeps the kids and I get lunch. Well yesterday she had stuff to do so I decided to brave it anyways(bad choice.)

We walk in and there is a line I ask Breven if he is sure he really wants Subway and he answers yes so we stay in line. Only to see that 2 coaches for a girls wrestling team are ordering 20 different subs for their team of wrestling girls all loaded with tons of stuff! So all 3 workers are taking care of this one order and all of the rest of us are stuck! So we wait Breven and Aubree annoy each other as always and they go back and forth I issue several warnings. When the line moves and we get by the bathroom Aubree says she has to potty. I loudly say well if I get out of line we will have to go to the back and wait again(I was hoping the old lady behind me would say I will hold your spot but no she just kept right on glaring at me.) Breven offered to take her. I told him all h needed to do was help her get on to the potty and she could do the rest then help her pull up her pants.

Well they head to the bathroom and all is good then I hear Aubree scream. I run out of line and in the bathroom he is attempting to hold her down on to the potty. I told him that's not what I had asked him to to. Aubree fights his hands off her and in the struggle she falls in the potty! and begins to cry. This was it for me. I started yelling cleaning up Aubree and stormed out with 2 crying kids from Subway. I will be calling their manager to ask why every single employee has to do one order when 1 was just kind of standing writing names on paper. And I will not be returning to that subway after that experience for a long time!

Shots

2011-02-12T07:08:00.000-08:00

Well it has started the first box arrived of Brad's medication overnight shipped in a Styrofoam container with special ice packs and sharps container and a mountain of paperwork. I didn't know this before but with MS treatment you have to use inject able medication(this is not easy for a man who passes out giving blood) So this week in order to get more comfortable with the idea he called up a friend who's wife is a nurse who teaches diabetics how to give themselves their shots.

We went to her house Tuesday night and when Breven saw the needles he panicked thinking he was getting a shot and he ran for the hills! Brad had his lesson and felt a little better. Tomorrow Peggy a nurse assigned to him by our insurance will be coming with an injector gun type thing to teach him that and traditional injecting.

This is all so new to us I mean now we have a box of medication in pre-filled needles sitting in our fridge and it will be this way forever. Its going to be interesting seeing him to this every day(especially since he hates needles)

The TV debate

2011-02-09T11:06:00.000-08:00

I posted a few things back that Breven was banned from watching certain TV channels. Well this all started when we had noticed that Breven's mouth and attitude resembled that of a teenager not a 5.5yr old. Well as the weeks went on and things got worse and my tolerance got low I sat down while he was watching TV and I discovered a possible culprit. He has been watching Disney Chanel and Disney XD and these shows feature teenagers. And yes they are dis-respectful, rude, make snide comments and are just overall teenagers. Seeing this made me think is what my son watching causing his change in attitude?

After watching a few of his favorite shows on my own time I had decided that yes this may be a factor. So after talking to my hubby Disney, Disney XD, and Nick's tween/teen shows are all now on a 1 week ban in the house. The only exception to this rule is Nick Jr, and Playhouse Disney and Phinneas and Ferb are allowed. He had a major objection to this as I had expected but we have stuck to our guns and he has to watch other shows.

Have we noticed a change? In the first 4 days his attitude, smart talk and things have cut back. He is playing more in his room and is less worried about times and situations on his TV shows. In exchange he can watch anything on PBS(which I always advocate they have great stuff) Nick Jr or Discovery(non reality shows) Science channel or anything else not teen drama or comedy related. So far its been good I am thinking to see real progress we may have to extend the ban to 2 weeks and then after that evaluate our choice as to what he can and can not watch.

So to moms of older kids what have you done? What shows or things can your kids watch? Do you care what they watch?(I have met plenty of parents who don't or who allow them to watch things they are not mature enough to understand) How is the TV show rotation between kids in the house?

14 years

2011-02-08T11:26:00.000-08:00

Today marks a big day in our house 14 years ago today Brad and I started dating. Yup I have been with him for 14 years the top picture was this winter. The 2nd one is us in about late March of 1997 when we started dating. Wow do we look different! I couldn't imagine spending the last 14 years with anyone else. He truly loves me as I love him and together we have tackled so much and gone through some tough things which has made us who we are today.

Even with everything going on with Brad's health we are committed to each other and our family now and forever!

These are a few of my favorite things!!

2011-02-08T11:08:00.000-08:00

Now its time for a fun post these are a few things that are making me happy or smile these last few days. Now Brad and the kids are included but not pictured!

Box tops these little babies are like $$ for schools I started saving last January before Breven started school and now a year later I have turned in almost 250 and at $0.10 each I have given the school $25 just by saving them from food we usually buy! Its contest time at the school so I am hunting for box tops!

Rice Milk I am lactose intolerant I can do processed products like cheese, sour cream and such but regular milk sets me off. So this allows me to get milk without the nasty soy taste(I can always taste soy milk and its not good and it makes me burp!) I like it in my cereal mostly I love me some special K with red berries.

Wholly Guacamole. It usually comes in big packets which is a pain because I am the only one eating it now they make it in 100 calorie packs which are just my size and taste yummy. I eat it on all Mexican dishes, its a great replacement for mayo on burgers or sandwiches.

Coke Zero its a nasty habit but its healthier then regular coke!

My teakettle. I got a Rachel Ray one a few years back and it was recalled this is my replacement. While its not as cute as the original its new and it matches all my Rachel Ray stuff!

My Keurig this is my baby. It makes em coffee every morning and sometimes mid day or evening when I need a fast hot buzz. This item is well worth the cost if you don't drink more then 3-4 cups a day. Since its only me its perfect!

Vitamins with cold and flu season and my working out I needed something to supplement. Well traditional vitamins make me sick ever since I got pregnant with Breven they make me sick and want to vomit. So I had been taking the kids vitamins because for some reason the gummies don't make me sick! So I found grown up ones at a reasonable cost at Costco. Next to it is my calcium being lactose intolerant I need extra and my mom has Osteopina which is a pre-cursor to Osteoporosis. So Its a big essential to me they are like giant tums so they are not fantastic but they work!

Life in general

2011-02-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

Sorry things have been so heavy around here lately but with all this stuff in the air at one time that's how life was feeling for me heavy! But now that we know more, and are feeling positive about things and are in a good place my heart is less heavy and ready to move back to the fun of life.

Lets start with me! I have been busy with getting ready for my surgery on the 18th. I am having a severely deviated septum repaired along with vessel cauterization on my nose. So I have been planning babysitting, meals(my friends are taking a few of those off my list! Thanks girls don't know what my kids would eat that weekend!) making sure the house is ready and clean(because we all know men and kids don't clean, and I can't bend over or forward or put any pressure to my head for a few days) then I discovered that I have no tops that button or zip up the front so I had to shop for that, lounge pants, and other things. I have been working out my 4-5 classes a week and my Jazzercise classes are moving to their own center! I have downloaded and bought my first e-book on Breven's gift that he can't use and its so cool to have books just there without having to think or remember where I left off if the kids got to it. I have to say for being a non Nook or Kindle its great! Its a pandigital and has B&N loaded to it and its WiFi so its great with less $$$ involved then a big brand name. I have been cooking much more and being able to use things from our own back yard which is always good!

Breven has lost his 2nd tooth! and is a reading machine he has finished all the books in his bag on the first night and we practice the other nights and he is now reading the level 1 books you can find at the stores(which they say pre-k but that's a joke unless your 4yr old is a genius.) At school they learned about measuring which is right up Breven's ally he has been measuring, estimating and just going to town here with his new skills. At Church he is in the show he isn't speaking but he is still very excited. We have had 3 new boys move into the area which is great because they all play outside so now he has buddies(the other kids here are either way younger or don't play outside much) Our one down side is that Breven has began to have the attitude of a teenager. I am thinking Disney Chanel teen shows and XD teen shows are not helping it any so for this week they are banned no Nick ,No Disney only PBS or educational shows on Nick Jr or Qubo.

Aubree she is growing up way too fast! She has become proficient in getting to the potty and taking off her pants and going and wiping she just needs help getting her pants back up, she can now use regular toothpaste, and she is eating more full meals and using her fork properly. She has developed a little bit of a diva attitude and says princesses don't clean! I made her watch her favorite Cinderella and showed her that she cleans and so did Snow white so that fixed her fast! She is playing me I know and its harder with a girl because she it too darn cute. She also stands up when Breven is in trouble and when she is in time out Breven gets mad at me. They are way too protective of each other! She has learned to ride her scooter, and loves to be outside riding her things with wheels.

So things around here are getting back to normal before next months swim team sign ups and practices start(then it gets crazy again!) I am hoping this nicer weather sticks with us it makes swim practices more tolerable and easier on all involved! I'll update you on Brad and whats up with him next week after he visits the doctor for his treatment schedule and I learn how to give him injections(This should be interesting)

Finally an answer

2011-02-04T15:43:00.000-08:00

Remember a few weeks back I complained out something that I couldn't tell?? Well now that its official I am going to tell because I need to tell someone so my readers get to hear it here first. If you are a friend or family member who didn't know we have not told everyone yet so that may be why you have not heard anything and I am sorry you are reading it here for the first time.

Let me back up and give you all the full story. Back about a year ago Brad started having issues with his neck. We thought maybe it was his pillow so we got him a better pillow and fixed his sleep position. This didn't help so he went on. Well then he started getting headaches along with the neck issues. So he went to a chiropractor and got a massage. Still no good after several appointments. So he went to his general physician because a new problem started so when he would look down his hands would tingle or go completely numb. His doctor being good said lets get you an MRI and an appointment with the neurologist it may be a pinched nerve or something in your spinal cord. So insurance denies the MRI and says ok for a conductive nerve test and a visit to the neurologist.

He sees the neurologist and tells him his symptoms and he says that sounds like lhermitte sign. There are a few causes degenerative disks in the spinal cord, B-12 deficiency, or Multiple Sclerosis. So he sends him for a full MRI and blood work. The MRI comes back and the doctor says he needs to go in the same day..... now we have been with this particular medical group for over 10yrs and have never seen a doctor same day so we knew something was up. But still hoping for the best we said severely degenerated disk that needs surgery we were prepared for that. Then he went in and we the answer he didn't want. The doctor found 1 lesion on his spinal cord at the neck and 3 in his brain these lesions were tell tale signs of MS. Still in shock they scheduled him for a spinal tap 2 days later to give a final answer. In those weeks we did research and discovered that MS isn't a death sentence and that medication therapy is actually helping patients experience less issues for years upon years. While I had become more comfortable with the possibility of MS I still thought it was a huge mistake and the spinal tap would say he was normal.

Well yesterday we got that final answer and his spinal tap says he has MS. The good news is his symptoms are minimal, his lesions are small, and we got it early and he is young. Now after the initial shock wore off we started with the questions on what to do next to keep him healthy as he is now. He is now deciding on a treatment plan and working on an exercise plan and just what he needs to do in general. Me I am his support system. I am researching with him and if need be I may have to learn to help him with his treatment as MS treatments are all injectible and he is afraid of needles.

To put it in a nut shell MS stands for multiple sclerosis. Lets say your nerves are an electrical cord. Now electrical wires are bundled together with a plastic sheeting over them. Now for people with MS their body attacks this sheeting causing scars(sclerosis) all in the brain and spinal cord(multiple) now there is no cure for MS they do have treatments to slow or prevent symptoms. People go for years with just little things some get rapid progression we will not know for years what type Brad has. But what I will say is that we are lucky it was found early and by a good doctor and that he is still able bodied and moving so that he can enjoy life and be normal.

Our goal right now it to research what we can do to keep the disease at a minimum and to take care of our family like we have been. Does this mean our lives are changing in most ways no. We are still young, fun loving, caring and everything we were before we just have to make sure Brad is healthy and takes his treatment seriously. Please don't take pity on us this is not why I wrote this I was writing this to keep all my friends and family informed and to let people know that we are a normal family on this new part of our lives if things change I will let you know as always! I want everyone to read more about MS when you have time the national multiple sclerosis society is a good place to start(don't get me started on Montel Williams he is a marijuana advocate) web md is good but don't visit any out there sites. There is no diet for MS, taking out fillings and dental work are not going to fix things so if you see that close your browser!

All right that's enough for today I am leaving you for now and I'll be back with our usual fun light hearted posts soon.

Day in our house

2011-02-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

I have seen a lot of TV shows, blog posts and talks about a typical day in a family. I have to say I am pretty interested to see how others get it all done and so I thought I would share a typical day in our house.

5:15-5:45am Brad gets up. He never gets up on time and is usally shutting off his alarm a few times before he gets in for his almost 20min shower.

6:00-6:30 this is the window of time when the kids wake up. Most days its 6am straight up but some days are special and I get to sleep until 6:30. They come to my bed and watch morning cartoons because they are notiorously horrible when they wake up so this helps them to adjust to the morning. We all say good bye to dad and he is out. If it is a shopping day or Thursday I shower and get myself ready with the kids.

6:30-7:20 Kids are in my room I check my phone and emails and FB because you never know what happened over night and what plans may have changed for the day. Once I am done I go to Breven's room and get his clothes and then to Aubree's room to get hers. I take their stuff to them and I get Aubree dressed and Breven takes care of himself.

7:20-7:30- I help kids finish getting ready, I do hair(yes those spikes you see on Breven are daily and Aubree has to at least brush her mess) Then I hurry put on my workout gear and make a pony and add an extra layer of deodorant before I work out(just keeping it real here)

7:30-8:05 Breakfast. I head down and turn on the Keurig and start to make breakfast. I am lucky I only have to make hot breakfast maybe 2-3 days the others are easy and Breven eats a PB&J with milk and his pills, and Aubree eats a yogurt and cheerios. I then get to eat and have a cup of coffee. Then I check Breven's bag and help him get his shoes on and everything ready to go. Aubree packs a snack, and I make a water for Jazzercise and we are out the door. If its a shopping day I get the coupons and clean out the car. If its Thursday Aubree goes to Nanas.

8:15-9:00 I drop Breven off at school (no I can't send him on the bus we do not go to the school we are districted for and I refuse to pay for my kid to ride the bus!) if I have an early class I head straight to Jazzercise if not then I make a quick trip to my parents to drop off things, or pick them up or for Aubree to see Nana and Pop-pop because she misses them. Then we head off to Jazzercise and I get Aubree settled into childcare and get me ready to go. On Thursdays I stay and volunteer until 11:55 when Breven gets out of school. I prep books, I make homework packets, I do make up work the list goes on and on.

9:00-10:00 I work out

10:00-11:45 I leave Jazzercise(unless its Monday. On Mondays I babysit for an hour for 2nd class) when I get home Aubree has yet another snack, and I let her watch cartoons and I do housework if I have nothing else planned for that afternoon. If I do have plans I shower and get ready.

11:45-12:15 I get Aubree loaded into the car and we head off to get Breven. I do my afternoon check in make sure he has a green card and how his day was and get all his papers. I also swing by the mail box and get the mail.If its Thursday we get my mom to run errands and get lunch sometimes we do this Friday too. I do all my appointments on my mom's day off because kids at my things is no good!

12:15-1:00- I make the kiddos lunch and they eat and I eat at the table. Luckily they are simple and like sandwiches and fruit with milk. Some days we get fast food(treat days) some times we go to lunch and shopping with Nana.

1:00-2:30 nap time. Yes I said nap time both of my kids nap! I get about 90min a day of no kid time! I either do Internet stuff, or knit and watch tv and catch up with my friend DVR because my kids don't nap well if I make too much noise. I also make my phone calls and do all of our appointment scheduling at that time as well.

2:30-4:30- I do laundry, housework and sometimes Internet stuff. The kids watch TV and play, have a snack and wake up. My kids need a good 30min or more time to wake up and be pleasant after sleeping! Breven does his room cleaning some days and Aubree as well. This is usually when I tackle mount laundry!

4:30-5:30 dinner prep, cook, and homework. In this time window I set everything for dinner that isn't done ahead of time, I cook the meal while Breven does homework at the table that way I can help him and still do something. Aubree colors during homework time as well. The kids help with parts of dinner. They set up thier spots, sometimes help cook, or empty dishes from the dishwasher for me. During this time Brad gets home if he is on time.

5:30-6:15- We eat at the table as a family (unless Brad has to work late then we are minus Brad) but we have no TV or anything else to distract us and we eat dinner. I package any leftovers for the next days lunch and clean the kitchen and start the dishwasher if need be. On Wednesdays I drop Breven off at Awanas and its just Aubree time!

6:30-7:30- I finish any un-finished chores from the day and any laundry. I help the kids straighten up their rooms if we didn't do so already, and they have some play time. Then I get ready for baths. Breven showers in my shower and I run the shower in her bathroom for Aubree. I get both kids cleaned, lotioned, and all comfy. Then they take their vitamins and brush teeth. I also blow dry Aubrees hair.

7:30-8:15- Reading time Breven reads me books from his reading bag 2-3 books a night, then I read to both kids from our collection. Aubree always requests the very hungry Caterpillar(I am over it) and Breven mixes it up because he gets books from the school library. After we are done reading we have a little snuggle time in my bed or on the couch before bed.

8:15- the kids go to bed! We tuck everyone in and the kids go to sleep

8:15-9:30 or 10- Mommy and daddy spend time together we usually watch tv or talk then I crash well before Brad.

So that's a typical day in the life of the kiddos and I and every day is different and things are never the same twice. I do manage to keep the house clean with 2-3 hours a day because I laxed my standards. The house doesn't need to be prefect just clean and healthy for all of us!

Breven's ride

2011-02-01T14:56:00.001-08:00

For Awanas they have a movie night that they make cars for every year this year was Breven's first time so Dad went all out and made this awesome Chevy for his boy!

What next???

2011-01-26T11:13:00.000-08:00

That's the question I am left with these days what's going to happen next? Life is sure strange sometimes how everything happens and goes on at once it seems and never ending.

First there is Brad's thing which I will share with you soon I promise. Then my Dad's mom who is over age 85 and has been in a nursing home for the last 4 years got pneumonia which for those of you who have ever worked in a nursing home know that's the beginning of the end. Which after a few weeks of not eating much and just kind of being in the room she passed away. It is sad but I am glad she didn't suffer too long. My parents are now headed to NJ for her funeral. I can not go I didn't know her to well and it would be next to impossible for me to take both kids to the east coast in the middle of January as they would need a whole new wardrobe. So my parents are going to represent for my family.

Then my nose bleeds have finally got me sent to an ENT. Who decided to numb my nose and take a look to discover my true problem. My nose is so deviated that he is surprised I don't snore and that I can breathe. My vessels are so compacted that they bulge then decide to bleed and get dried out. So as soon as my parents get back I am having nasal surgery. Which will make room for my vessels, clear the path so I can breathe better, my nose will now drain properly, I will sound less nasal, and they bump in my nose will shrink(free nose job!)

Breven is back to some lousy behaviors which we are trying to get back under control(I wonder if he senses the chaos) so today I am taking away his DSi and some TV time. I think he needs to see what dis-respect and bad behavior gets. Then he needs some quality mommy time once he is in a better frame of mind to put him back on track.

Ok well that's enough life drama. I will be back soon with pictures of Breven's car for the drive in at Sparks tonight(its the cutest cardboard truck ever!)

Oprah's big announcement

2011-01-25T14:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday TV was a buzz as Oprah made a surprising statement on her show about something going on in her life..... If you are an Oprah watcher and missed it this is a total spoiler so stop reading............ She has discovered after over 40yrs that her mother gave up a child for adoption and she has a half sister that she didn't know about. Now everyone out there is surprised at how the family kept it a secret and how could this happen to her of all people, and she is the queen of adoption reunions and so on and so forth. This is a common story and not so shocking to some of us in this world and adoption reunions are not as un-common as you may think.

Before I go on I better say I didn't ask my mom before posting this but I know its no huge secret but if it bothers her this will be removed later on.

I too have a half sister that I didn't know about until I was 11 and after years of searching she found us and we even had a reunion. So let me share our little story. I will not post dates because then that gives away my mom and sisters ages and I don't want to blast that without asking.

So in the late 1960's my mom was a teenager and still in high school. She was in a relationship(I would assume relationship I have no details about the dad and wish to not know) this relationship led to a child being conceived. With my moms young age and not being married at the time the thing to do was to have the child and give it up for adoption. So she went to live with another relative(in the same area she was not shipped off) and continued her pregnancy and delivered a daughter in July. She was all set to be adopted but the family that was to take her didn't make it there or was not ready for her(not sure of all the details) but the baby was almost returned to my mom. She was adopted by a good family of a nurse at the hospital. The baby went on with her family and my mom went on with her life.

Flash forward to 1991 my mom was watching a talk show about adoptees and was bawling my half brother and I seeing this asked her what was going on. At that time she told both of us her story and she wanted to register to find the child(who was now an adult) I was surprised as an 11yr old could be but thought it would be cool I always wanted a sister and with the relationship I had with my brother(who at the time was making horrible decisions and continues to this day but that's a whole nother story) So she did her thing and we just moved on.

Flash forward again to 1998 my grandparents who lived in town at the time got a phone call. The girl on the phone said she was looking for Denise and it was her daughter. My grandma didn't think and said Charlee is at work we just saw her and you don't sound like her. Then it set in who this was. My mom's maiden name was the information she had and my grandparents were listed in the phone book so she put a lot of pieces together and found them. After some long calls and emails it was confirmed that my mom was her birth mother and they arranged to meet. My mom flew to where she was living at the time to meet her and her family(she was married with 4 kids) in 1999 she was in California and I got to meet her and her children as well.

This started a relationship with our 2 families that is a friendship that is very beautiful and special. All my questions were answered she didn't look like me, and her personality was not like mine but she was nice and we do have some similar traits. 2 of her 4 kids are adults now and I have contact with them through Facebook(good old facebook) and my nephew who isn't much younger then me has a daughter and she is my moms first great grandchild!(She is adorable by the way)

Now alot of people ask how the relationship is well its not what most think it is or should be. We are all friends we talk, we exchange emails and pictures but there are no trips to visit and all those things. We don't want to replace the family she has I mean the people who adopted her are her parents not my mom, and their children are her siblings not me. But this is great and comfortable for all of us. This has enhanced our family greatly and one day I hope to tell this story to my kids about the Auntie they never met.

Reunions like ours and Oprahs are not un-common and happen all the time adoptees finding their birth families and their roots and their heritage and its a beautiful thing to be a part of.

Fun game

2011-01-24T14:11:00.000-08:00

First Car- 1998 Dodge Ram truck! (My dad got transferred for work so he took the small car that was for me and I drove this)

Ketchup or mustard- Well it depends on what we are eating. Hot dogs both, hamburgers just ketcheup and lots of veggies or guac instead of ketchup and no mayo. Fries Ketchup for sure!

Currently reading- Nothing still trying to get a gift card to B&N to order books

What are you listening to- Hannah Montana(Breven is having rest time) and the dryer

Favorite board game- Scrabble (its the only game I can beat Brad at)

Whats for dinner- Its Monday and Brad says it makes his Monday to come home to fresh made burritos so that's whats for dinner every Monday night!

Plans for the weekend- I wish! We never have plans!

Do you crack your knuckles- No! But my knees crack every time I bend down.

Famous person you resemble- this I have no answer to!

Favorite soda- Coke Zero Cherry

Busy, Busy

2011-01-22T10:55:00.000-08:00

It has been another busy week. Breven lost a tooth, went to school, went to church, he got a part in the play at church, we did a mad 2 day reading bag bash, and lots of errands.

I was not feeling great all week I had major allergy and sinus issues and lets add to that random nose bleeds. I caved and went to the doctor Tuesday in hopes of having my nose cauterized again (yes this will be my 4th or 5th time doing this) and for the first time they are sending me to an ENT (serious just burn the vessel and get it over with I don't have time for ENT's!) We had our drywall fixed 2 times because the first guy did a horrible job! So I spent a lot of time here this week getting things done!

On a good note when I did our bi-weekly commissary trip I save $23.54 in coupons which was 8% of the bill and that is on top of the 20% we save just by shopping at the commissary. Our bill was a bit high we needed a lot of meat my stash in the freezer is low! I also had to stock up on things to make our selves. As part of my plan we are weaning our house off of pre-packaged things. Like I'll make mashed potatoes or rice or whatever and not rely on a box.

I am still on the secrecy policy for Brad so nothing to report yet just still waiting.

Aubree has been my little patient rock start this week. She went with me to the doctor and she was great she played with her Fisher Price iXL and was quiet as can be(this is a learning toy my parents got her it has its goods and bads I'll post a review soon) she has been stuck running around with me all week and has been great!

On a creative note I have finished a few scarves I need to post pics before I give them to the intended people. I am also going to make a few new bows for miss Aubree and I am looking into making a few new things. I have been wearing Aubree's hair flowers and may need to get back to making some more after my next haircut.

The weather has been warm and in the 70's so it stinks that my allergies are not taking this well and we are missing out on being outside! But I love CA and I love having beautiful sunshine and warm weather in January!

Ugh

2011-01-19T12:34:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had it happen where something in your life is going on but because its someone else's thing you can't talk about it? Like lets say your husband for example. I relay want to talk about it with him or with a friend or anyone relay but he doesn't want you to talk about it at all with anyone outside of him and you.

That's where I am right now its not like its a life or death thing and no we are not divorcing or separating so no worries there.

I just feel ugh! Like stuck! I want to vent, I want to talk, I want to yell and everything else on the emotional scale but I can't!

I know this post is odd but I needed to vent something and this is the only way and place I can!

2011-01-18T12:37:00.000-08:00

After many weeks of this tooth being loose he finally got brave wiggled it and then mom stepped in and pulled it out! There it is the first baby tooth! It went under the pillow for the tooth fairy and he got $5. (I have heard this is the going rate for a 1st tooth) He says he saw the tooth fairy and she had pink wings! (Funny thing is it was Daddy who went in to handle the fairy business) so we know the secret is safe! Not too long from now we will have another post as the tooth next to it is loose as well!

Growing up too fast!

San Diego Zoo pics

2011-01-17T09:01:00.000-08:00

Friday we had a ditch day at the zoo. We are members so for the last year we have gone every few months or so for free! It has been great being members each time we learn or see something new. This trip didn't disappoint. Breven is learning at school what animals and people do in the winter and animals that live in cold climates. So we talked about hibernation, and thick fur coats and what animals need to live in winter. But this day was not the best to do it because it was 78 degrees outside and sunny!

We spent a lot of time with the lizards and frogs. Did you know frogs hibernate? I didn't either they hide at the bottom of lakes or ponds. Aubree liked snakes and was so happy to see one against the glass. While visiting the lizards we went to see the turtles! My mom got to touch one he was over 100 years old! Breven said he had to be old because he had cracks like Nana!

Aubree got to see flamingos fight over lunch and man do they honk loud! The pandas were hungry and pacing, the leopard was pacing as well and the female lion was sleeping with her paws on the glass.

The kids were impressed with the animal actions this time and what was going on. It was a perfect trip one or two more of these trips and our memberships expire and we are done with Breven in school all day next year in 1st grade out trips will be lessened. I hope that they remember these times and trips we take when they get older.

Been super busy

2011-01-15T17:14:00.000-08:00

Pictures to follow soon! I have been super busy. Wednesday I did some retail therapy at Target I got Aubree the $45 Tangled table for $13 and bag for me $17 and some yarn at Michaels that I didn't need but wanted because its so pretty!

Thursday was work day at Breven's school. My job now is to handle reading bags its supposed to take up most of my morning but sad to say its quick because only half the kids bring in their bags read and finished! Come on people how hard is it to sit down and have your kid read 5 short books to you and turn them in? Then we got a new student she came from foster care and knows nothing she can count to 10 recognize to 8 and barley knows how to write her name. This child is so far behind the class. But on a good note my son stepped up her first day became her buddy showing her how things are done and what they do at school. After that I had lunch with mom and a PTA meeting(which took way longer then I could handle)

That night my mom and I talked and the next day was a half day with assembly for Breven and it was one about elephants that paint with photos(so nothing too important) so we thought perfect day and weather to head to the zoo. We told Breven he was not going to school the next day and he was excited then he got even happier when I told him we were going to the zoo! Our passes expire at the end of March so these are our last trips for a while. We had a super fun day(post to come soon)

Today is another beautiful day and the kids spent most of it outside on their bikes! Gotta love So Cal sunny and 77 in January.

Food favorites

2011-01-12T16:20:00.000-08:00

In our house we eat a lot and with our health in mind here are a few of our families favorite things...

Barilla pasta plus is great its whole grain pasts, has added DHA, has fiber and protein and isn't like most whole grain or whole wheat pasta because it doesn't taste like cardboard!

Applesauce unsweetened preferably. Its a great food all on its own but when used as a substitute for oil and eggs in baking saves a lot of calories, tastes great with pork, and is a good all around food!

Splenda yup I use it in my ice tea and when I make the kids kool-aid(a very rare treat) and I use it in coffee and almost anything I can. Recently I have used the sugar blend for baking and brown sugar as a substitute in cookies and it cuts the sugar and calorie counts in half! I will say however if you are using it in a dough or in a bread maker I didn't like it as much. Pilsbury started using splenda in a cake mix and there are some recipes out there for that I plan to try as well.

Craisins great in cookies, great on salads, in trail mix or on their own. My kids hate raisins but love these! So do I and they are not too bad for you either.

Almonds are great for cooking, baking salads and alone they are a great nut with lots of nutrition and not too high in fat (if you buy them raw)

I sub in wheat flour where I can make sure to look for similar recipes though in breads and pizza dough it bakes a little different if you are not careful but it makes a mean cookie!

Canned tomatoes they make easy sauces and just have so many uses I always have all kinds and all sizes on hand to make meals.

Double fiber orowheat bread this is a major staple Breven has digestive issues so from an early age he had to have extra fiber and this is the best bread for that without being heavy. It grills well, it toasts well and it tastes good with PB&J

Skippy natural PB Breven only likes PB&J for breakfast if I am not cooking eggs.

Smuckers all fruit spread no sugar added is the plus and its all fruit

Stony field organic probiotic yogurt this is Aubree's favorite breakfast

Egglands best eggs(yup I get fortified eggs) and they make hardboiled eggs in a bag for easy use. I also buy a carton of egg whites I make my eggs 1 whole egg and 2 egg whites to save calories and cartons make it easy!

Kraft 2% milk cheese(block style) the hubby only eats fresh shredded cheese so that's what we get and we use it often.

I can't believe its not butter spray it gets the kids to eat veggies and is good when I make air popped popcorn and since it has no calories or fat its a freebie food!

Popcorn seeds we make air popped popcorn 1-2 times a week its a healthy fun snack

Dips such as light ranch, hummus and things for fruits they get the kids to eat them with little to no questions. Cream cheese on celery is actually relay good!

Birdseye stemfresh premium veggies best frozen veggies ever!

Fresh fruits, veggies and herbs all 3 are good for you and great to cook with when you can.

Healthy eating

2011-01-12T11:57:00.001-08:00

We are always striving to eat healthy here because the hubby and I are majorly bad eaters if left to our own devices and our waistlines have shown it! and our son got a little chubby from some medication coupled with his sweet tooth and passion for junk. I am always on the look out for healthy makeovers or recipes for good nutritious healthy meals.

Well this site http://skinnybites.com has weight watchers calculated healthy meals. I am not a WW person and I have never done it. But she has tons of healthy low fat and tasty alternative meals.

Last night we had the turkey meatballs and marinara (which I adjusted to cook in the crockpot) and tonight its lemon rosemary roasted chicken! I love the fact that she and weight watchers has desserts! I am a huge sweets fan. I love the ideas of desserts with lower calories and fat so you don't feel like a fatty eating dessert! I will post later today my personal recipe for my skinny choc chip cookies. My hubby and kids loved them and it was just a few minor adjustments to traditional cookie recipes.

What I didn't get to post Wednesday!

2011-01-12T11:38:00.000-08:00

Well I attempted What I Wore Wednesday. But failed my pictures didn't show enough detail on the clothes to tell what they were and then also most of it was black!

So this week I'll start over again and attempt to get better photos I do still need a full length mirror when my allowance isn't spent!

Update on the leak

2011-01-11T10:53:00.000-08:00

The leak was in the pipes for the water heater leading to the downstairs bathroom. The builder sent out a whole crew we had a plumber fix the leak, clean the hot water heater and check all the plumbing for our downstairs.

Next there was one of their contractors who took out all the soggy drywall, baseboards, insulation, and wood.

Next came the mold removal people who took all the moldy stuff they could out and then sprayed a fungicide, and set up dehumidifiers and fans in the areas that had mold and such.

Now after a few days of drying they will come back to check things and patch up and repaint all the walls and things affected, they will be sending out a flooring person to see what they can do about the dis-colored vinyl and take care of all the cleanup work.

Coat

2011-01-10T19:34:00.000-08:00

This picture is so small! But this is my new coat its a Jessica Simpson Collection called the Kate zip up coat its so adorable and fits like a dream! It flares out and looks great with dresses, pants, jeans and everything! It was a big splurge for me but I am so in love with it.

4 things

2011-01-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

4 things I am passionate about

My kiddos I believe my purpose in life was to be a mommy
My hubby couldn't ask for a better partner
Jazzercise(yup its a lifestyle and something I love)
My relationships with friends and family

4 things I have learned from my past

Never forget who you are(no matter how crazy life gets don't get sucked in to forgetting your a woman not just mom)
Never neglect your relationship with your man even though the kids make it hard its something you should never do
Learn to be financially responsible at a young age never let your parents do everything for you!
You can forgive but honestly never forget

4 Places I would like to go

Caribbean
Hawaii(with the kids to show them my mom's side of the family culture)
Australia
this one is a tie New York and Las Vegas

4 things I did yesterday

Went to church
Made Pizza
Worked on a scarf
Read some magazines

4 things I am looking forward to

This leak business being over!
Going out of town without my kids (I hope my hubby reads this sometime!)
Swim season for Breven is starting soon
Looking into dance classes for Aubree

4 things I love about winter( i don't love winter so I'll say like)

Snowboarding(yes I know we have to have winter to have snow but I hate cold!)
Pretty coats(I'll brag about my coat purchase later)
Boots
Blankets

Update on Opperation Organize

2011-01-09T13:08:00.000-08:00

I started on one resolution quickly. I started with Aubree's room because she got new furniture. All the baby gear is gone, old clothes gone, and her room was done. Before Christmas I started with Breven's room and so I just moved his new toys in and his wooden Lego bins up to his room and for now his room is clean and organized. Next was the linen closet. Our was overflowing with old bedding that Brad wouldn't let me toss and towels we didn't use and so on. So I got permission to do a major purge and cleared it all out to what we use. Thanks to that our Craigslist Dyson now has a home!

The kids toys in the loft are all away and cleaned up and the baby toys are now all gone. My closet is done and even my knitting bin is cleared up and neat. Brad did a closet purge and now his is good as well. We hit our bathroom cabinets and cleaned those out(I donated all the un-opened and still good items to a Chruch) We took care of the laundry area cabinets where I am now able to keep a full set of cleaning supplies in!(no more carrying them from downstairs to up and up to down) Brad took care of the gym room and I am working on getting my craft bin down there worked on. But now we can use the gym and the closet! The closet now has my craft things, the kids playdoh and Breven's school work station.

Next stop kitchen cabinets(my worst nightmare) We cleared out the out of date stuff(which was not as bad as I had expected) Moved things around and got that all done. Now that I no longer need a baby cabinet I moved all the snacks (that I found out the kids were sneaking) into a higher cabinet which means no access without me. We cleared out the 3 junk drawers, and cabinet. Which lead us to discovering the big leak!

All that's left is the garage and office(which are Brad's areas that I am not allowed to touch) and that's it we are organized!

Leak

2011-01-09T13:00:00.000-08:00

Yup one word sums up our house right now and that's the word. Let me start back the week before Christmas we noticed a spot above our dining room table Brad thought that food got flung up to the ceiling and went to clean it. Well he went to do that and his finger went in the drywall! So we found out that a pipe had a leak in the joint and we called a friend who is a licensed contractor who owed us a favor and the pipe was fixed and drywall patched that day. No biggie.

The next week I was cleaning the downstairs bathroom and noticed something brown on the base boards that didn't wipe off I thought I needed cleaner and would get back to it later. So this weekend we were cleaning up the last of our organization and cleaning project and my husband found that the baseboards are soaked, the drywall is soaked, and we made holes in the wall and found a major leak in the wall to the downstairs bathroom. Thankfully there is a 10yr warranty on plumbing on the house and since we are original owners and not part of the lawsuit they are sending people out this week to remedy the problem. We are now on a leak hunt for any other leaks in the house.

The bad part is we have mold growing already(so nasty) and it looks like they have to tear apart the downstairs bathroom and the water heater area which means no water for a few days. Looks like I may be spending some time at my parents house!

Knitting

2011-01-03T13:06:00.000-08:00

I have reclaimed my time and have decided to get back to knitting so if you know of any yarn on sale(and I mean cheap sale) or any knitting blogs or fun projects pass them along to me! My goal is to attempt an article of clothing by the end of the year!

End of the season

2011-01-01T16:32:00.001-08:00

Today we took down the tree, lights and everything holiday related. This signals the end of another great holiday season and an exciting new year! We are cleaning out the house, cleaning out the food(mostly all the treats and things we don't normally have here) and cleaning out everything to start this year off fresh and lighter so to speak.

The crib is gone, the elliptical is gone and the rocking chair is leaving. We got rid of all the old bath towels, blankets we no longer use and cleared out the linen cabinets. We cleared out all the old toys and put away new ones, we made plans for new ways to organize and keep things neat.

It feels good to start off this new year with a clean slate and less clutter in some areas almost refreshing.

We know new things are to come. Breven is reading faster then ever, swim season is near, Aubree is getting closer to dance lessons, and swim lessons this summer. Our zoo passes expire but we have plans for other trips and things. River season is 6mo away. Breven will finish Kindergarten and move to first grade. Mommy will be working out and continuing to try and look less like a shlump and be better read. Daddy will be working on new projects at work, and maybe taking a well deserved vacation. All exciting and new things headed our way!

Aubree's big girl furniture

2010-12-31T14:18:00.001-08:00

This is it we got rid of the crib and have moved on to a big girl room!

She has been asking for a few months and even asked Santa for a big girl bed so we got a special Christmas gift from my Grandma in New Jersey and it was perfect timing. We took her to Ashley furniture and this is what we all decided on. I spent the week shopping for reasonable and matching bedding and getting the room all ready. And today it arrived and she is so excited she is now napping in it!

I am sad the crib is sold and leaving the house as well as the glider rocker since there are no more babies for us. It was a good crib and is now going to another family to make them happy!

New Year 2011

2010-12-31T14:00:00.000-08:00

Its that time when we all make resolutions well not for me its goals always goals resolutions are easily broken and goals can be attained in steps which is much easier to see progress as it goes along. So for 2011

Is to tone up this body of mine. I lost the almost 20lbs I had wanted to lose last year its now time to tone it up and make it sexy! I want more of my tummy to tighten up, get a little arm definition, shape up the booty and get toned legs.
Maintain my weight loss. Its all good to lose it now to keep it off!
I say this every year but be more organized. I have been cleaning out stuff and getting rid of things for almost a month now in an attempt to have less stuff to organize this will help. I did get better this year and there are areas that I hardly have to touch any more.
To be better with my time. To make the most of the time I do have. To get things done in a timely manner. I want the house to stay clean and not spend days doing it all. I want to waste less time doing nothing. To better use my time with the kids.
Spend more time with the hubby! This one is always on the list too but I am hoping he reads this and agrees and maybe I can finally get a weekend away!
To be more financially responsible. I have gotten better and I am improving every year at not having spending sprees and doing crazy things. Now to work on saving us more in our daily routine, to save a bit more and to make more out of what we have.
To eat better and be more active as a family. I am on track now its time to get the rest of us there!
To read more, myself, Breven and all of us together.
To cook and eat at home more. We did this last year and I want to improve more and learn to cook and make more things ourselves and be less reliant on boxed things which I am not sure how and what they are made of.
To help Breven to control his behavior and his attitude. He made huge improvements in 2010 and one day I hope to have him off medication if it is possible if not well then we did our best!
To get Aubree involved in more activities(she always feels left out)
Help my hubby get better health wise for him to loose weight and exercise and take better care of himself.
To find inspiration to get this house more decorated and home looking and less just like a blank shell of a house.
To be less frumpy to take better care of my appearance and start looking nicer on a regular basis. Not just sitting around in yoga pants and t-shirts all the time.

I think those are all manageable and attainable goals that I can strive for in 2011 stay tuned to see how it goes!

Christmas morning

2010-12-28T17:01:00.000-08:00

My kids awoke to a tree full of presents more from my parents then Santa and Us combined(what can I say they are spoiled grand kids) Aubree got her wish list as did Breven for the most part. And me I got a sparkly surprise from the hubby, and a kinect from my dad! Brad got new jeans and new work shirts(he is hard to buy for)

After the opening was all over we had a yummy breakfast of Belgium waffles and all sorts of bad for you goodness. Then we stayed home for the day and played with the kids and all their new toys! That evening we had a casual night at my parents house and came home to watch Shrek the final chapter.

Christmas Eve

2010-12-28T16:58:00.000-08:00

We had Brad's family over and my mom came too to have Christmas Eve dinner and gifts for the kiddos. I was cooking and serving so there are not too many pics but every one had a great time and a great meal(if I do say so my self)

Whats on the Menu for Christmas Eve

2010-12-22T17:22:00.001-08:00

So we are hosting Christmas Eve as always so here is my menu for 12

Veggie tray
Meat and cheese tray with crackers
Spinach and artichoke dip with tortilla chips
Shrimp with cocktail sauce

Prime rib
Garlic mashed potatoes
Grilled asparagus
Steamed green beans
Corn
French rolls

Glazed chocolate sour cream cake
Cookies

Getting hungry???

Whats shaking

2010-12-21T16:17:00.001-08:00

Its 4 days before Christmas so its time for some randomness and stuff thats just oozing from my brain.

Took Breven to the dentist perfect check up(which took forever! they were so busy and people were being stupid like you can't use all your insurance benefits for the year in 1 visit) as always just needs to work on brushing better and wiggling free his first loose tooth. I took Breven to get a gift with some Christmas money he got from a relative (I am done guessing what to get) so I let him pick, and I got Aubree a gift too!

I am half way done wrapping and noticed Aubree is coming up short in gifts so daddy is going to get her something extra special for her tonight and he better do good!

I am over this rain! It stinks I am over being trapped in the house, I am looking for Noah and the ark and I am looking at buying me and the kids rain boots because it so stinking wet!

I am going to lazy cookie bake and buy sugar cookie mix and just decorate! I am also making basic chocolate chip for "Santa"

I was expecting something and now its going to be late so all my shopping for me is over until it arrives! Its ok Ill hit the after Christmas deals with Aubree in tow!

I am on the hunt for big girl furniture for Aubree I know what I want I just have to narrow down a selection and bedding for it to match her current room colors.

I am excited for Brads vacation! I get to have some time with him and he can keep Breven occupied!

Well I think that's enough randomness for me today I'll be back with pics for the next post!

What a week

2010-12-18T14:55:00.001-08:00

This week went from one that was supposed to be normal and easy to a pain in my buns quick! Monday Breven woke up with a sore throat and said it was the worst ever so I take him to to docs for them to say virus ride it out. So I keep him home he is crying, not eating and ruining a fever all day. So Tuesday his fever is worse and he is worse so I take him this time to the NP and they swab his throat (correctly this time) and sure enough he has strep! So no school until Thursday. So I spent 3 full days mostly at home because Breven was sick putting a serious kink in my plans. He never gets this sick he didn't even want to eat or play and this boy always eats!
By Thursday I was ready to be released from prison so I went to school and spent the morning doing his make-up work and then stuffing stocking and getting gifts together for the next day. My mom called and she had to shop so off we went to do that and of course my kids got bored and Breven started acting up(always a favorite) thankfully my mom bribed him with taking him to dinner and he started behaving. Then I come home to a tree(Brad finally found some where with nice live trees) it was a great surprise but I had to now get the kids to bed and get the tree done. Which thanks to my mom happened and the kids were only 30min late to bed!
Friday I could finally go back to Jazzercise and I had childcare duty with 1 kiddo since my parents came and stole my kiddo. That afternoon Breven and I rushed out to see Tron(assuming the theatre would be busy) and we sat in a half full one because we did 3-d (worth the $3 a ticket upgrade) By the end of the day I was beat I still am beat so that's why today all I am doing is laundry and that's it!

Holiday photos

2010-12-16T13:37:00.001-08:00

Yup those are the best ones I have a funny gag reel to add but I won't post those some are not appropriate(my hubby things being a perv is funny) so this is us in 2010.

Phineas and Ferb

2010-12-15T08:36:00.000-08:00

Yup this crazy team has become a favorite in our household and not just for the kids! Yup Brad and I watch is as much as the kids do. For those of you not familiar with this show its on Disney channel or Disney XD(its a boy channel in my opinion)

These 2 step brothers are crazy smart and are on summer vacation their goal each day is to make it the best day ever. They come up with inventions, schemes and all sorts of craziness to make their day great. They have an older sister Candace who is always trying to bust them but just as the boys are about to get caught the contraption disappears thanks to Perry the Platypus. Perry is their pet who is also a secret agent(trust me it adds a lot to the show)

I have to say I have noticed a pattern Breven has a thing for smart or creative characters. He loves this show, Indiana Jones, Transformers, Sid the science kid, and any other character who is smart. He also has a collection of toys, CD's and such related to the show which is always fun.

Update on mommas wish list

2010-12-14T08:35:00.000-08:00

Well with some rewards shopping and my dad I got a few things on my wish list. I did get the cowboy style black boots from Old Navy along with workout pants and new tanks (thank you verizon for the $100 for referring my parents to fios) I got my Ryka shoes and my iPod nano(thank you Daddy and yes I still call him daddy) I even got an additional $15 to spend at toys r us so I am getting an iTunes gift card.

I am still waiting on one Christmas check and we are done shopping. My grandma from NJ sends us a large check for everyone to get something fun. She sends the hubby and I a big one because she loves to spoil us as parents because she knows we never do it ourselves. Its the one time a year that I get to be selfish and spend it all on me with no guilt. I am thinking I am getting the handbag, the ugg style boots, and the sunglasses if they look good on me.

The kids will be getting a few enhancer items for their gifts. Aubree has fallen in love with her Rapunzel doll and wants a Cinderella to go with her and some princess dresses like she saw at Disneyland. Breven wants a lego sorter(yup my clean freak wants to clean) and some Tron goodies and a Phinneas and Ferb stuff. I am also in need of little girly stocking staffers. Breven's stocking was easy Aubree not so much!

Singing in Church

2010-12-14T07:05:00.000-08:00

Breven has moved up in the world this year instead of singing with the pre-school kids he is with the K-5 and he loved it. He almost had a speaking part but right before they went on stage the original speaker showed up. He had a good time and is hoping to continue to do this every year. It makes me happy that he loves it so much.

Disneyland

2010-12-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

We survived Disneyland on a Friday it was so crowded we are never doing a Friday again! We had a great time dispite a few hiccups. The kids saw Santa and Pluto all the other character lines were an hour plus wait. We rode lots of rides just not 2 favorites because of almost 2hr lines.

Stressed

2010-12-08T14:25:00.000-08:00

Every time I feel stressed this week I just keep thinking Disneyland on Friday!

Its been so busy and when the kids got mild colds Monday it threw me all off! But things are good now I got what I needed done yesterday and even grocery shopping(big relief there) I got a haircut today, and a brow wax at the same time. (Yea for grooming) Then my dad surprised me gave me his hiding cash and said go to Toys R Us and get you and your mom your iPods and keep the gift card! I am so excited that makes almost half my wish list fulfilled.

Tomorrow is Christmas pics everyone has color family related outfits, hair has all been cut, and we are ready to go.

Later on today I'll post some pics of our Christmas stuff that's up and there will be lots more this weekend after Disneyland, getting the tree, brunch, and singing.

What I wore Wednesday not workin!

2010-12-07T15:02:00.000-08:00

Well since I was having a good clothing week the last couple of days and this week was going to include a few of those I was going to participate in WIWW on the Pleated Poppy (thanks for the link Genn its a new favorite read) but when I went to take pics I noticed that I have no 0 zip zilch nada full length mirrors in this house!

Well the house didn't come with mirrored closet doors and when we moved in Breven was 6mo old and I was still chunky so I didn't want to see all of me at once. I continued to not want to see all of me for a few years with not loosing weight then having a 2nd baby.

But today I want to show off my work and no luck! So where is a good place to get an inexpensive nice mirror for my room so I can take pics and see the whole me when I get dressed?