The Brandow Family

I'm so embarrassed....

2011-05-14T16:57:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how long it has been since I've blogged. I'm realizing that I need to start before I have my third!

We are not UPS anymore...

2010-08-09T21:15:00.000-07:00

Isabella and Chase's school changed their name at the beginning of the year. We used to be University Public School (UPS) but now we are Vincent Shelvey Academy (VSA).

When Mrs. Fashner, our principal, first told us about the name change at a community council meeting, my first reaction was that I didn't want my kiddos school to change their name. After they told why and who it would be named after I was on board. I'm excited that we have the name we have now. Plus, I won't get the confused look anymore like my kiddos go to a postal service for their school. =)

What a week

2010-08-01T22:57:00.000-07:00

This week has been an emotional roller coaster! It was nothing that I expected.

Chase was SO excited to start school. He talked about it all the time.

The first day of school, Monday, went great. He was so excited and did a great job being separated from Mom. The first day was only 3.5 hours but he went with us to the name changing ceremony and that was about 2 hours.

The second day, Tuesday, he was fine. He was waiting at the door for me with his backpack on before it was even time to go. In line his look should have given me a clue that something was starting to happen. He didn't seem quite sure. He still did great and when I left was a happy camper.

The third day, Wednesday, was a hard day for both of my kiddos. First off, on Wednesday they only go to school from 8-12:30. I was talking to a friend outside of school for 2 hours. We were catching up and talking about the new school year. When we finally parted I thought that maybe Mrs. Tiede might need some help and it was so close to the end of the day at this point that I thought I'd just see since I was free. I found her on the playground because the kiddos were at recess. She did need help. The whistle blew and recess was over and then I saw Chase. He didn't look happy. He ran to me crying. I was shocked. I did not see this coming. I quickly walked him to his line and he was sobbing and wouldn't let go. I then pulled him off my leg and quickly left to go to the classroom. Mrs. Tiede had to get him so that he didn't follow. I didn't know weather I should leave or stay. I thought I'd try it out and if he was till crying then I'd leave. I'm not sure what was said but when he came into the classroom he walked straight to the carpet and wasn't crying anymore. I help Mrs. Tiede and then when I left I gave him a thumb's up and signed I love you to him. He waived goodbye and signed I love you and I left. He seemed fine when I left. Then the book buddies came in and Isabella was able to be his book buddy. When she left the classroom at 12:00 he then cried from 12:00 until the end of the day straight. When I picked him up he was sobbing and just ran to me and jumped into my arms and cried into my chest. I had to wait there with everyone watching because I didn't have Isabella yet. He cried until Isabella got out and until we got into the car. It took EVERYTHING not to cry. Isabella had a break down once we got home and said that she missed Mrs. Tiede. They were both so tired so they took a nap. Isabella slept for an hour and Chase slept for 2.5 hours.

Day four, Thursday, was HORRIBLE. Chase cried off and on all morning while getting ready and on the way to school. When I finally left him he was sobbing and crying for me not to leave him. He broke my heart on Thursday. As I walked out with parents watching me, telling me that it must be so hard, and hearing my son crying for me, I lost it. Angie put her arm around me and we walked out of the school with myself in tears. (Thanks Angie for being there for me.) I felt like I had deserted him. To be honest, Im not 100% okay with the new routine at school but I do as I'm asked. I called at 10:00 to see how he was doing and was told that he had been crying off and on all morning. Well, that didn't make me feel any better...it actually made it worse. I got off the phone and I cried off and on for the rest of the day. When I picked him up I expected to see him crying but he was so happy. He bounced to me and told me that he got a piece of candy for being happy and having a smile. I was SO happy to see that!!

On Friday, he didn't want to go to school. He cried to school and to his line. I told him that if he stopped crying I would ask Mrs. Tiede if she needed help in the classroom. He stopped and so I asked and she did. He was fine after that. I helped out in Mrs Tiede's class for 3 hours. Chase first starting crying right before recess because I originally told him that I would be leaving then but she needed help a little longer. I assured him that I would be staying until centers was over. He knew right when centers was almost over. He came over to me 5 times crying and telling me that he didn't want me to leave. He asked me if I could stay until the next recess. I ignored him and then he went and asked Mrs. Tiede. She broke the bad news to him and he again started crying. He went to his desk and I went to get my purse and he started crying again. I stood there for a couple minutes. Chase looked away and Mrs. Tiede mouthed for me to leave and I tried to quickly leave but he saw me and jumped up out of his seat and ran toward me. Mrs. Tiede caught him and I left. I was a little frustrated with him at this point because I had spend so much time in the classroom and I felt that he should have been better. I guess he cried a few more time and then was great the rest of the day. He was happy when I picked him up.

On Saturday we had Back to school day. It is a fun day for the kids and the parents learn all the the expectations for the year. We had a few tears on the way to Saturday school which was ridiculous. When I was finished and went to the playground to get them he didn't want to leave. He had tons of fun.

Here's to a better week next week...

Chase's first day of Kindergarten

2010-08-01T21:45:00.000-07:00

Here is my big Kindergartner. He looks so big!! I'm so sad that he is starting Kindergarten but also so happy for him. He is so ready and is so excited. He can't wait to go to sissy's BIG school and have Mrs. Tiede.

I just love his freckles.

This is Chase's new favorite pose. He has to do it EVERYTIME I take pictures of him. He is always my little jokester when he takes pictures.

He had to have "Rock Star" hair for his first day of school. I just love his spikes and those blue eyes.

Here are the shoes that he picked out. He is so proud of his new Sketchers. He wasn't to wear them the moment he got them and asked all the time but we saved them for the first day of school. Grandma Hockey bought these for him.

Here is the backpack that Chase picked out. He has a matching lunchbox too. Daddy helped him pick it out. He was so excited to use it. On the first day of school he was waiting by the front door with it on ready to go!

On the way back to school after the name changing ceremony. He was so upset that he didn't start school the same time Sissy did. He told me that Sissy was having fun and he wasn't.

Here is Chase with Mrs. Tiede on the first day of school. We are SO excited to have Mrs. Tiede again with Chase. She is A GREAT teacher!

I always get the teachers a present on the first day of school. We got Mrs. Tiede a class set of crayons and a teacher's journal.

Here is his new backpack and matching lunch box

Here is Chase and his best buddy Kaden. They have so much fun together. Thank goodness they aren't in the same class they would crazy. But I'm glad that they can play together at recess.

There he is my big Kindergartner. =( He is in his college stance and ready to go.

This year they did things a little different because of the name change ceremony. The Kinders started school at lunch, 11:30, instead of at the beginning of the day. They ate lunch and then played. Chase's playing time was off to a bad start with 2 first graders shoving him off the playground but he saw Kaden a little later and snapped out of it. After recess time they lined up and the Mommies said goodbye.

I know that Mommy was having a much harder time with this whole Kindergarten thing than he is. He was SO excited and Mommy was so sad. I knew this day was coming fast but it came much faster than expected. What a hard day for me. I hope this gets better.

Isabella's 1st day of 2nd grade

2010-08-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

What a big girl on the first day of school. She just looks so big to me here.

You have to notice all the details because Isabella was VERY specific about them. They had to be just right!

Isabella picked out a Wizards of Waverly Place backpack. She honestly doesn't love the show I just think she liked the colors. She really wanted a Scooby Doo backpack but it was on wheels and we can't have wheels at VSA. I don't have a picture of her lunchbox, but I should. She picked out a Scooby Doo lunch box. She's been wanting this lunchbox for years but I couldn't justify buying a new one when the other one was in perfect condition. I don't love the character backpacks but I don't allow them to wear things like this so I figured I'd let them at least get to pick it our for a backpack. I'm hoping that she will want a Jansport soon.

You notice that Isabella has two hair things in her hair. She has a headband that she picked out for the first day of school but we also had to add the heart scrunchie. After I finished Isabella hair, and it looked beautiful all curly, she started crying saying that it was too big. She just cracks me up. So we had to add this to tame it. Anything to stop the tears, right? You aren't supposed to cry on the first day of school.

The shoes that Grandma Hockey bought Isabella for the first day of school. Isabella like these because they had stars on them because our mascot at the school is the Stars.

The earrings that Isabella picked out for the first day of school.

I love this picture of the two kiddos together on the first morning of school. This year we are no longer called University Public School (UPS). We are now Vincent Shalvey Academy. I will have another post on the details of the name change.

Here is Isabella's adorable teacher. Her name is Mrs. Baumann. We just love her to pieces. We are so excited to be in her classroom. She is the teacher that we were hoping for. =)

I always give the teachers a little something on the first day of school that the entire class can use. We gave Mrs. Baumann a class set of glue sticks and pencils plus a teachers journal for her. I attached a cute little poem.

Here is my big 2nd grader standing in line. I can't believe that my little girl is a big 2nd grader. How time is flying! My goal now that both of my kiddos are in school is to be involved as much as I can so that I can be a part of this time in their life. Time flies and I don't want any regrets. Here's to a great 2nd grade year!

Kindergarten meet and greet

2010-08-01T20:59:00.001-07:00

Chase was SO excited to go to his Kindergarten meet and greet. He wasn't meeting his teacher for the first time because he has known her for 2 years now. Chase gets to have the same teacher as his sissy did. When we got there they were to sign in and then start decorating their letter. Then we went on a tour of the school and came back into the classroom for our snack. They made Chicka, Chicka, Boom, Boom trees. Weren't they SO adorable. I loved it! Then we went on a hunt around the classroom for certain things. Chase had so much fun. He is super excited to start school. =)

Tribute to Buttmuncher

2010-07-11T01:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read that right! We were lucky enough to have Buttmuncher in our life. We loved that cat tons and miss him tons too!

On April 1st I took Buttmuncher to the vet because he had lost a lot of weight in a short time. We found out that he had a mass in his stomach which she assumed was cancerous and spreading fast. We brought him home and we were going to take him back the next day to put him to sleep. Once we were home he acted so much better. It was the best that we had seen him in a little while. We decided to wait to put him to sleep until he seemed like he was suffering plus the next day was Danny's birthday. We were so fortunate to have another two weeks with Buttmuncher. We spoiled him a ton with special food and most of all LOVE.

Putting Buttmuncher to sleep was one of the hardest things I have ever done. It broke my heart but I know that it was the best thing for him. We took him to Sierra Vet Clinic. They were amazing! The worst part of it all was when we got home and explained to our kiddos that they weren't going to see him again. They were devastated!

Buttmuncher was an awesome cat. He was quirky but we loved him a ton!

(2001-2010)

Easter morning

2010-07-11T01:14:00.001-07:00

Isabella and Chase had a wonderful Easter morning. They are holding their favorite Easter gifts from the Easter bunny. Isabella's favorite was her new Zhu Zhu Pet. Chase was so excited to get his Phineas and Ferb DS game. We also loved the "big breakfast" that Danny cooked us. He is our breakfast man!

A first in the Brandow home

2010-07-11T01:08:00.001-07:00

I am so embarrassed to say that this is the first Easter that we have decorated eggs at the Brandow home and it only happened because of my cousin Tina. She came all the way from Fresno to spend the day before Easter with us and brought all the goodies to decorate eggs. It was tons of fun! My kiddos loved it. My kiddos have decorated eggs before just not at our house. I was always too afraid of the mess but Tina gave me hope that I might try it again next year.

Over the Hill

2010-07-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

My hubby is getting old! He turned 37 this year. I planned a last minute celebration with him and I invited the Casper's to come along. We went bowling because it is Danny's favorite thing to do that doesn't involve a boat. Then we met back at hour house for his Older than dirt cake. (The bowling alley wouldn't let us eat the cake at the bowling alley...stupid!) It was a fun evening.

(On a side note: I need a new point and shoot camera...I think my camera has seen its last day.)

Easter pictures in the mustard fields

2010-07-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to do mustard field pictures for quite a while now and I always procrastinate and then they are gone. This year right after I got my kiddos ready on Easter Sunday I asked Danny if we could run over to a mustard fields and take pictures. It was perfect timing! It was overcast and we finished them right as it started raining. I finally have my mustard field pictures! =)

Easter with cousins

2010-07-10T09:19:00.000-07:00

We were so excited that Serenity and Landen came to Grandma Cookie's to celebrate Easter with us. It was a total bummer that we had to hide the eggs inside because it was raining. The kiddos didn't care they had fun anyways.

California Adventure

2010-07-10T00:35:00.000-07:00

There are so many things that I love about California Adventure.

Isabella is my lil' daredevil and went on Screamin with me. She was so nervous before we got on the ride. Her hand were all sweaty and everything. But, she loved every minute of it and wanted to go on it again. She's just like her Mommy!

Soarin is another favorite. That ride is just amazing. We went on it three times. This was my Mom's first time on it. She loved it just as much as I knew she would.

Toy Story was so stinkin' cute! We enjoyed every minute of it....except the long wait!

I love the chill atmosphere at California Adventure.

(March 2010)

Happiest Place on earth

2010-07-10T00:07:00.000-07:00

In March Grandma Hockey took us to Disneyland. We had tons of fun but we were SO tired. My Mommy and I say that we are never going to do it again and after about a week later we are always ready to go back. Why do we always do that to ourselves? =)

We had the pleasure of my niece KK and Lindsey and my sister-in-law join us for the first day at Disneyland. The kiddos loved having KK there with them. Here are a few pictures from our Disneyland day.

Where does the time go

2010-07-09T20:03:00.000-07:00

Has it really been since April that I have posted? I'm such a slacker. No one probably even checks my blog anymore. =(

Well, now that I'm going to be home a little more, soon, I plan on catching up.

Sleepy Boy...

2010-04-28T21:35:00.001-07:00

I walked into the family room and this is what I found. My little man looking like an angel. (Sometimes looks can be deceiving. ;) ) Isn't he so darn cute!? I think so!

(Februray 2010)

No training wheels??

2010-04-28T21:32:00.001-07:00

Yes, we finally took Isabella's training wheels off, in February, and tried to teach her how to ride a bike. Needless to say, the training wheels are back on and Danny bent them up. We go biking as a family often and didn't feel comfortable enough to take them off. She rarely uses them but they are there just in case. We need to bit the bullet and take them off!

Valentine's Day at UPS...

2010-04-28T21:25:00.000-07:00

I was able to make it to centers on Valentine's Day in Isabella's classroom. I just love holidays and all the fun things that Mrs. Tiede does with the kiddos in her classroom. Here is a little taste of the day.

Why I love Isabella...

I love her compassion for others.

I love watching her play with Chase and all the sisterly love she gives him.

I love her hugs and kisses.

I love it when I pick her up from school and she runs to me with a big smile.

I love cuddling and watching a movie with her.

I love watching her grow up into a beautiful young lady.

I love the weekend, holidays, and breaks that I get with her.

I love her more than words can express!!

Get Schooled...

2010-04-23T08:54:00.000-07:00

Get Schooled Photo is having a birthday party! Over a $1000 in gifts from amazing vendors! visit the blog 4 YOUR gift http://bit.ly/awjv26

I love...

2010-04-22T23:46:00.000-07:00

I love that crocked smile that Chase has.

I love how loving he is.

I love having him with me at home right now.

I love so many things about this boy!

This is my cutie on Valentine's Day. He brought a Valentine's card for the card exchange in class and wanted to show it for the pictures. He was so proud of it.

Greg and Steve

2010-04-22T23:44:00.000-07:00

On February 5th Chase, Grandma Hockey, and I went to go see Greg and Steve for Chase's pre-school field trip. It was tons of fun! Chase loved it! We had great seats. He was so glad that Grandma Hockey was able to come with us. He still sings their songs every once in a while.

My Mommy turns 70...

2010-04-22T23:26:00.000-07:00

It is so weird for me to think of my Mommy as a 70 year old. There isn't anything about my Mom that is anything close to a 70 year old. She looks young, she acts young, and like I always tell her, you are as young as you think you are.

Well, I bet you are surprised that you don't see a big party or a big trip for her BIG birthday but my Mommy made me promise that I wouldn't have a party for her and we are in the works planning the trip...right Mom?

So instead we had a great filet dinner and I got her a cake and her favorite ice cream from Baskin Robbins. We sang to her and the kids gave her their little homemade gifts. She said it was perfect. I hope so because for everything my Mom does for me I wanted to do so much more but at the same time I wanted to respect her wishes.

I love you SO much Mommy! There aren't words to express how grateful I am that you are my Mom. What a lucky person I am to have you as an example all my life. If I am anything like you then I am doing real good! =)

100th day of school...or

2010-04-22T23:20:00.000-07:00

At Isabella's school they are supposed to dress up as a 100 year old on the 100th day of school. So here is our 100 year old woman. Doesn't she look good for her age. =)

Cabin in Tahoe

2010-04-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

Isabella making snowballs to hit Antony with.

This is my niece Taryn and I. I love hanging out with her. We had so much fun at the cabin. (That is the cabin we stayed in in the background.)

Our little family by the snowman that everyone made.

Her is Antony and I after I kicked his butah in a snowball fight. It is hard to tell but we are soaked!!!

Serenity and Isabella sledding down the BIG hill.

I just LOVE her snow suit. Thank so much to my friend Jamie for the cute borrow.

There is nothing vacationing with my hubby. He is a totally different person.

My little man. I love his blue eyes with the white snowy background. He's so cute!

It was Kris's birthday while we were at the cabin and Isabella and Serenity were giving him extra loves on his birthday. They even swept the floor for him.

I just LOVE this picture with all the cousins. They have so much fun together! =)

We went to the cabin for New Years. It was SO SO SO fun! We had a blast. We don't get to the snow very often as a family because our first and only trip, until now, was a disaster. It was a cold and cold could get with a blizzard rolling through so my kids never had a desire to go to the snow. This trip was awesome. The weather was gorgeous. My kids still talk about it and would love to go back again. Thanks so much to Kris and Dawna for opening their cabin in Tahoe to us. We had so much fun! =)

Saturday School...

2010-04-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

Isabella had Saturday school on January 30th. Our 2nd Saturday school is always geared toward charity. This year we did book donations to needy schools in our area. Every child was supposed to buy a new book and at the Saturday school we made a bookmark, name plate, and book review. Isabella chose Purplicious for her book to give to another child in need. I am so glad that UPS does a Saturday school like this. I think that it is so important for my children to be involved in service. It was a fun Saturday School!

Chase's Pre-school picture...

2010-04-07T10:17:00.000-07:00

I love love love Chase's new pre-school picture so I thought I'd share it.

What this picture represents to me:

1. My baby boy is growing up WAY too fast!

2. My baby boy is going to start kindergarten at the end of July.

3. He isn't my baby boy anymore. =(

I'm definitely sad and excited at the same time. I know that we are going to start a new fun part of his life but I'm going to miss him being at home so much! I love this little guy.

I know that it has been forever since I've posted but things have been crazy busy. More posts to come soon! Promise. =)

Thank you so much!!

2010-01-24T22:20:00.000-08:00

Today was a great day. Fasting wasn't as hard as I expected it to be. Normally I am only able to fast for 1.5 meals. I usually feel so sick with a headache and shakiness. Today was great. I was hungry, obviously, but I didn't have any of the usual problems that I do and I fasted the entire time.

I've felt at piece today like everything is going to work out. Not sure exactly what that means because what Heavenly Father has in store for us might be the complete opposite what we want but I know that we are going to be okay. I just need to have faith that he has it all worked out.

The stress has definitely been getting to me but today I have felt at peace. The stress in my jaw and neck is gone. It is a great feeling.

Thanks so much to everyone who fasted with us today. I truly felt the support and love from you. It is amazing how many family and friends supported us today with our fast. We feel blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people in our life.

Fast

2010-01-18T15:32:00.000-08:00

Danny and I are having a special fast this Sunday to help us with our job situation. Anyone who would like to join us is welcome. Strength in numbers, right? I just wanted to give everyone a heads up so that you could be a part of it if you'd like.

Thanks for all your prayers and support for us during this difficult time. We love you!

Our sad news...

2010-01-13T23:24:00.001-08:00

A week before Christmas Danny found out that the warehouse that he works at is closing. =( After working straight for 19 years Danny will officially be unemployed as of January 29th.

We have applied to many jobs for him (like 10-15) and haven't heard a thing. It is pretty depressing.

So please keep us in your prayers because we need it right now!

New Year's Eve

2010-01-09T22:20:00.000-08:00

This New Year's Even we had the opportunity to spend it with The Huber's (and Danny Stocks) in Trukee at their beautiful cabin. We had such a great time.

We had chili chicken casserole for dinner and then we had munchies. We celebrated the New York New Year with the kids and then we played the marble game and then celebrated our New Year.

We had a great time! =)

Clemmons' Christmas night

2010-01-09T22:14:00.000-08:00

This of course is my favorite part because I finally get to spent time with my family. It is the best way to end Christmas.

My mom always makes the BEST Christmas dinner. We always have pit beef with a salad bar, cheesy potatoes, McClintock's beans, and pull apart Paranese rolls. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

I never get the many pictures of Christmas with my family because I'm always wrapped up in conversation and spending time with them. Since this always happens I went around before everyone got there and took pictures of my favorite things in my Mom's house. Most of these are memories from when I was a kid. Enjoy!

Christmas Morning

2010-01-09T22:10:00.001-08:00

We have traditions on Christmas morning.

First the kids find their Santa gifts and then we open all the rest of our presents. Then it is off to the stockings.

I always try to find matching Christmas PJ's for my kids to wear on Christmas.

Then after we open all of our presents, Danny makes an amazing breakfast. This year we had biscuits, eggs with cheese, sausage, and orange juice. It was yummy.

After the kids play with their gifts for a little bit we head to Bakersfield for Christmas night.

Brandow Family Christmas

2010-01-09T21:51:00.000-08:00

We have traditions during Christmas Eve that I love.

First we always have a great dinner with my favorite potatoes that Vola (my Mother-in-law) makes.

Then we had a great Christmas program to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. This year the kids were the nativity while Les (my father-in-law) read the story in the scriptures.

Then we bust into the millions of presents under the Christmas tree.

We always have a great Christmas Eve.

2009 Christmas Card

2010-01-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

We finally have a new family picture. Since I am the one who takes the pictures all the time I never have a great family picture. I begged Brenda, thanks Brenda, to take some pictures for us. She, of course, did and they turned out amazing. =)

Here are a few of my favorite along with our Christmas Card. Enjoy!

Chase's Christmas Program

2010-01-09T21:26:00.000-08:00

Chase's drawing of a Christmas tree.

During December Chase had a Christmas program at his pre-school. He was so cute!

When we first got there he showed us around and showed up different things that he does in the morning when he goes to pre-school. He wanted Daddy right by his side the entire time.

Then he had his program. He was so blessed to have Grandma Hockey, who came all the way from Bakersfield and Papa Tractor and Grandma Cookie, who just came back from Hawaii the day before, there!

Chase was Mr. Jokester as usual throughout the entire program. I wasn't surprised at all! As you can see in the 6th picture, it started right away! As the program continued it got a little better but that is our boy. =)

After the program we all went to lunch at the Elephant Bar. It was a great morning.

Christmas Traditions

2010-01-09T21:13:00.000-08:00

I LOVE TRADITIONS!!!

NUMBER 1: The first Christmas tradition that we always do is trim the tree as a family. I love our Christmas tree. It is full of ornaments that mean SO much to our entire family.

NUMBER 2: Another Christmas tradition of ours is to look at Christmas lights. The kids love this and can't wait! THis is by far the best house that we saw this year or any year. This was a great evening. We even got to share it with Auntie DeeDee. =)

NUMBER 3: Every year our family does the 12 days of Christmas for another family who needs a little extra love during the Christmas season. This year we did it for Isabella's church teacher, Sister Cahill. She ended up finding out it was us but we still had tons of fun spoiling her. Isabella loves her so much!

NUMBER 4: We always have Christmas Eve with Danny's family (The Brandow's) and Christmas morning at home and then Christmas evening with my family (The Clemmons'). I am so thankful that we are able to spend Christmas with everyone!

Isabella's 6th birthday

2010-01-09T20:52:00.000-08:00

For Isabella's 6th birthday party we had a Scooby-doo swim party. Isabella had to have Scooby-doo. She actually wanted it last year but I put it off until this year. It turned out to be TONS of fun but we had a lot of drama to start out the party.

When we got to the indoor swim pool there was a sign on the door that said, "Pool is closed due to chemical imbalance. We're sorry for the inconvenience." You can only imagine the sick feeling that I had when I read that sign. I was honestly hoping that it was from the day before. Then the pool manager came up to the door and asked if I was Misty and told me that the chemicals were all messed up and he was doing his best to get us in there in about an hour and a half. (As you can see in the last picture, the chlorine was very strong!) That was totally messed up my plans but at least we would get to swim. I then called Little Caesars Pizza to change my pizza order to right then and we had pizza, cake, and presents first even though I wanted them last. Everything turned out great and the party was a success. The kids LOVED to be able to swim in November, including Isabella.

Isabella wanted to invite her entire class at school. This is another reason why her birthday party had to be somewhere where we could accommodate everyone. She had a great group there. She was also spoiled with her gifts which by the way the thank you will be out soon.

We had tons of family that traveled really far to be there to make Isabella's day very special! My brother and his family came all the way from Bakersfield. I was shocked when I saw him walk up. It was a great surprise! Then my cousin and her family came from Fresno and my Sister-in-law and her family came from Fresno also.

The cake was made by a really good friend. She did an amazing job. I couldn't have asked for a better cake. It also tasted wonderful!!

I made sugar cookies for the favor. They turned out yummy too. It was so much work...never again.

After the party we had tons of family over to our house and then went to Tio Pepes for dinner. It was a wonderful day but I was exhausted!

Promotion Ceremony at Gym Stars

2010-01-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

When Isabella turned six she had a promotion ceremony at Gym Stars with Miss Jessica. They make it a big deal at six years old because they go from the kiddy gym to the BIG gym. Isabella got a medal, certificate, and a poster to hang on her wall so that when she passes off skills she can put a sticker on her poster.

We were so excited too because Miss Alesha added a six year old class to her classes. Isabella had her class for three times and they cancelled the class. =( We had to switch teachers which was a total bummer. Miss Alesha was a little teary eyed even when we saw her the next week. She still talks about how much she misses Isabella.

All About Me

2010-01-09T20:14:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of November Isabella had "All About Me" at school. We filled out a poster at home and brought in fun things for her to share with the class. It was fun doing this poster with Isabella. Ribbon is my FAVORITE embellishment so I had to find a way to add it to her poster. Check out the top right of her poster. =) It is even her favorite color.

Halloween

2010-01-09T20:09:00.000-08:00

Halloween just wasn't the same this year since Chase was so sick. I'm glad that we were able to go trick or treating. First we got in our court to our neighbors. We always go to Ronna and Chuck's (aka Grandma's). Then we get in the car and head to Manteca to see Grandma Cookie. My Mom is usually here so she gets to be apart of all the festivities.

I added a new tradition to our Halloween Day, chili! I made a pot of homemade chili (that had chocolate chips in it) and it was WONDERFUL! This is going to be something that I do every year. It is nice on a cold Halloween evening. I even made cornbread muffins.

Halloween Eve

2010-01-09T19:47:00.000-08:00

Isabella went to the pumpkin patch with her 1st grade class on Halloween eve. I wasn't able to make it because Chase was SO sick. Chase even missed his Halloween parade at pre-school today too. =(

I did take a picture of Isabella before she left for school. It was wear orange and black day so I was able to dress her up all Halloweeny and cute.

Halloween Eve night we were supposed to go to a trunk or treat in Manteca but since Chase was so sick we weren't able to make it. So, I made the kids mummy dogs for dinner. They were a hit. =)

4 year plaque at Gym Stars

2010-01-09T19:45:00.000-08:00

Towards the end of October, Isabella received her 4 year plaque at Gym Stars. This is a picture with her teacher Miss Alesha. We LOVE Miss Alesha and are so bummed that when Isabella turns 6 that we had to move her to a different class. Isabella loves her and is going to be upset. She will truly be missed!! Isn't she SO adorable?

Fall church activity

2010-01-09T19:29:00.000-08:00

Right before Halloween we had a church primary activity at Sister Congrave's house. (My kids call it the pumpkin patch. ) The kids were able to carve pumpkins that they picked from the pumpkin patch, play games, go through the haunted house, watch scooby doo on the projection outside and have homemade donuts for dessert. It is always a ton of fun! Here are a few pictures from that day.

The bottom picture is of Grayson and Chase. Grayson and Chase love hanging out. Grayson is like Chase's big brother. He calls Chase," my little buddy." (So stinkin cute!)

Chase and the pumpkin patch

2009-12-30T23:26:00.000-08:00

Chase has a field trip to Countryside Farms for pre-school. We had a lot of fun there. We had a chance of rain during the day and it sprinkled on us a little but not too bad. We did the usual during the field trip. We picked out a pumpkin. Learned how a pumpkin grows. Picked out some walnuts. Learned how walnuts are harvested. Planted a plant. Took a tractor ride. Played in the play yard. Had a snack. Went home. Chase and I had a ton of fun!

Last time boating for 2009

2009-12-30T23:19:00.000-08:00

We went boating for the last time the on October 10. The water was already freezing at this point. It has to be really warm for me to get into the water! As you can see Danicia thought it was freezing too so she put the drysuit on.

When Isabella and Chase were out tubing we thought they were having the best time but as you can also see they were crying when we pulled them in because it was too cold. (It was actually really funny! LOL)

Chase's favorite seat on the boat is Daddy's lap. He'd stay there the entire time if Dad would let him.

We had a great last time on the boat for 2009.

Visiting Family in Fresno

2009-12-30T10:39:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of October I went to Fresno to visit my family. Pictured above is my cousin Tina, Aunt Jeanne, Mom, Me, cousin Becky, and in the wheel chair is my Great Aunt Dawn. We all went to visit Dawn because we hadn't seen her in a long time. We went to lunch at Marie Calendar's and talked. Then we went back to Tina's and had yummy dessert! It was a great day with family.

My niece gets married

2009-12-29T14:23:00.000-08:00

This was a horrible trip for us but it was a joyous occasion. My niece, Britney, got married in the LA Temple on September 25, 2009. She looked so beautiful. She asked me to do the pictures for her and so here are a few that I've proofed. I still have a ton more and will have more pictures later. Now that we are all well, knock on wood, and the holidays are over, I might actually have a moment to finish them. She has been so patient and I love her for that!

Isabella threw up 3 times on he way to LA and then threw up the entire night before the wedding. I was exhausted. She seemed better but threw up the next night too. It was a long weekend but we made it, barely!

Time Out For Women

2009-12-29T14:21:00.001-08:00

In September I went to Time Out For Women in Pleasanton. It was so awesome. This is my spiritual uplift for the year. Since I am in Primary and don't get much from church I really need this every year. Angie came with us too this year. We had so much fun. I can't wait for next year in Sacramento! =)

1st day of pre-school

2009-12-29T14:10:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that my baby boy is a big boy in pre-school. He is all grown up. It makes me happy and sad all in one!

His first job when he gets to school is to put his lunch box in his cubby.

Then to find an activity to do. He went straight to the train table.

Daddy was able to be there to see him off to his first day. =) He was so excited!

Pre-School Open House

2009-12-29T14:00:00.000-08:00

Chase had his pre-school open house on September 11, 2009. He already knew lots of stuff because Isabella went to the same pre-school. He is so excited to start pre-school! He played in the sand most of the time. I just love this picture below! So cute! =)

He had to pick a cubby and he picked the tractor. Papa Tractor would be proud! =)

Chase has 6 teacher they are:

Mrs. Colleen

Mrs. Mary

Mrs. Joni

Mrs. Margaret

Mrs. Elena

Mrs. Bonnie

Grandparents Day

2009-12-29T13:50:00.000-08:00

Grandparents Day couldn't have been better. Well, if my Dad had been there it would have been perfect. Isabella really wanted ALL of her grandparents there and it totally worked out that they were all able to be there. When she called to invited Papa Tractor and Grandma Cookie. Grandma Cookie told Isabella that Papa might not be able to come and she told Grandma that she would just invite her other Papa. Since he other Papa passed away I'm not quite sure what she was talking about but it made me really sad that my Dad wasn't able to be there. My mom came all the way from Bakersfield to be there. When I saw that everyone was there I got really emotional. I'm not sure if it was because I missed my Dad or because Isabella was able to have everyone there. Maybe a little both but Grandparents Day was PERFECT!

Chase's birthday day...

2009-12-29T13:40:00.000-08:00

For the rest of Chase's birthday day we picked my Mom up from the train station and went to Mongolian BBQ, Chase's choice. Then we went to Toys R Us and Grandma Hockey let Chase pick out a bike that he wanted. We were in there forever!! He finally picked the "perfect" bike. We let him ride it out of the store. He was SO happy.

We finished his birthday off with some cupcakes.

Teddy Bear Picnic

2009-12-29T12:37:00.000-08:00

Gym Stars started a "Teddy Bear Picnic" on Chase's birthday. So Kaden and Chase went to it. It was so cute. They played a ton and did some fun things with their teddy bears. Chase and Kaden has so much fun together. Since it was Chase's birthday they sang to him and gave him a special birthday stamp. Chase has to strap in his teddy bear in Isabella's car seat so that he was safe. What a great way to spend your birthday! After the Teddy Bear Picnic we went to Taco Bell for some yummy lunch.

Labor Day in Pismo...

2009-12-29T12:02:00.000-08:00

We all love making trips to Pismo to see our family.

First we went to see Jordan play some football. He is an awesome football player! We love watching him. As you can see Isabella and Chase LOVE Hannah (Jordan's girlfriend).

Hanging out with Jordan after his football game.
Isabella and Chase went fishing for the first time with Uncle Danny, Daddy, and Papa Tractor. Uncle Danny ALWAYS finds something awesome for us to do while we are visiting. The kiddos were constantly catching fish. What a great first fishing experience.

This was our last trip to the beach for this trip. As you can see it was beautiful. We were so sad to say goodbye! We hope to be back soon.
Thanks Auntie DD and Uncle Danny for all the great memories we have visiting you. We can't wait to make more! =) We love you tons!!!

New cooking website!

2009-10-20T19:04:00.001-07:00

I just found this cooking website. I just love her recipes. We just tried one tonight and it was so good! Check her out...you'll love her!

Another Contest...

2009-10-07T07:34:00.000-07:00

Another great contest on the Savvy Photographer.

The Savvy Photographer

Isabella's first grade school picture...

2009-10-01T10:49:00.001-07:00

I can't believe how big Isabella is getting. She looks so big in her school picture. I'm not loving the school picture itself but everyone has to have copies of it for when they get older, right? I'm just glad that I have other pictures of her too. =)

The Savvy Photographer...

2009-09-23T09:56:00.001-07:00

I just ran across an amazing blog for photographer and clients of photographers. They have great ideas, spotlights, and give-a-ways, my favorite! =)

Go check them out and see all the wonderful things on this blog:

The Savvy Photographer

My baby turns FOUR!

2009-09-20T22:40:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go. Chase turned FOUR on September 9th. We had his birthday party on September 12th. Chase wanted to have a Hot Wheels theme for his party. It was a fun theme. I really enjoyed the details for this one. You can see most of them in the picture above. I also attached his invitation that I send out.

The party started off very interesting. We had a thunder and lightening storm roll through right at the start of the party. Normally I would love to see this but not on his party day. I had children scared and crying during the party. They aren't ever going to want to come to another one of Chase's birthday parties.

About an hour into the party the storm outside settled and we were finally able to put the bounce house up. That made it so much better!

The party ended up being a success. Chase loved it and that is all that matters.

Day 5 - Friday August 28th - Wear as much blue and yellow as you can day'ssa

2009-08-28T09:30:00.000-07:00

Today was wear as much blue and yellow as you can day. I wanted to paint half of Isabella's face blue and the other half yellow but I thought that during the day when she is playing outside and it is 101 degrees today that she would probably start sweating and that would make a BIG mess so for Mrs. Tiede's sake I just wrote words on her face. It was totally Isabella's idea to write "I heart UPS." I thought that was a cute idea. Well, today is our last dress up day. It was tons of fun this week being able to be creative and do fun things. Back to uniforms next week. =(

Trophy Day at Gym Stars...

2009-08-28T09:20:00.001-07:00

This is Chase and Miss Jessica. Miss Jessica is his teacher for his 'BIG' 4 year old class.

This is Miss Wendy. This is the teacher that Chase had while he was 3.

Yesterday was trophy day for Chase. I don't think he realized that he was getting a trophy yesterday but when they called his name the above picture is what he did. He was a total ham for how shy he normally is. All the parents are sitting right in front of him and enjoying this show and he was just hamming it up. Then he walked up to get his trophy and I wanted to take a picture and he wanted no part of that. He then decided that it was time to be shy. Well, eventually he took a picture with this two teachers but he wouldn't take a picture by himself. He is just too shy for that but he will do a stratal in front of everyone and ham it up. I'm a little confused.....but I'm proud of him. =)

Day 4 - Thursday August 27th - Crazy hair and socks day

2009-08-27T14:07:00.001-07:00

I love crazy hair day. It is just hard to think of new things to do with Isabella's hair. Last year I put her hair in a bunch of pony tails and then put a different color of ribbon on each pony tail. This year I made 4 braids with wire in them so that they were sticking out everywhere. It was a lot of fun but took me forever to figure out a good way to do it. We worked on her hair for 35 minutes and we were almost late to school but everything worked out. We didn't have anything exciting for crazy socks so I just put on two different pairs of socks.

When Chase woke up this morning he asked me what day it was. When I told him crazy hair day he started jumping up and down because he had planned from the moment he heard crazy hair day that he would have a mohawk. His hair was so much easier to do a mohawk now that it is shorter. He loves it. Everyone complimented him at Weight Watchers and at the Farmer's Market today. He was on cloud nine. I just hope he doesn't ask to wear it again tomorrow. =)

Day 3 - Wednesday August 26th - Guess who I am day?

2009-08-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

Well, for Wednesday we ran into a bit of a problem. I'm so glad The Casper's were at our house having dinner because Brenda helped me brainstorm. When I saw this day I knew that I wanted Isabella to be Dorothy form Wizard of Oz. Makayla had a dance costume of it and it is SO cute. The only thing I didn't have were the red sparkle shoes. So, Brenda and I made a Target run to get the shoes. They had them and I bought them. I was SO excited for Isabella to be Dorothy. (Danny wasn't too excited that I bought these shoes just for this day but I reassured him that I will use them for Guess who I am day, Halloween, and Christmas.) We got back from Target and tried on the dance outfit and it was SO SO SO cute BUT, it was very buttylicious. The skirt was really short and I was so bummed because it really wasn't school appropriate and I was afraid that she wouldn't be able to go to the bathroom because it was a leotard. Isabella is definitely going to be Dorothy for Halloween. (and Chase is going to be the Tin Man or the Scarecrow) So, at 9:15 at night I was freaking out trying to figure out what Isabella could be. I saw tons of idea on the internet that I would have loved to have done but at 9:15 there wasn't much of an option. So, I remember that when I taught I had a bee costume from it. I pulled it out and it was perfect. It was quite obvious what she was but it worked for 9:45...at this point. Thanks Brenda for brainstorming with me and reminding me that I had this costume.

Day 2 - Tuesday August 25th - Sports Day

2009-08-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday it was sports day. Isabella knew exactly what she wanted to be on this day too. Since she wants to be a cheerleader when she grows up (she doesn't quite realize this isn't a "job", thank goodness her second choice is a chef) so of course she wanted to be a cheerleader on sports day. Chase wanted to be a football player. I just love the picture of the two of them. Chase's haircut was perfect for sports day. He looks like a football player to me. (Thanks Terri!) Maybe one day Isabella will be a real cheerleader and Chase will be a real football player.

Day 1 - Monday August 24th - PJ Day

2009-08-27T13:18:00.000-07:00

For the first day we had PJ Day. Isabella knew right away exactly what PJ that she was going to wear. It was her Hello Kitty Nightgown. Of course, Chase had to dress up to. (Can't leave him out.) He also knew right away that he wanted to wear his Superman PJ. What a fun and comfy day.

Dress up Week...

2009-08-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

Isabella's school has dress up week this week. Mrs. Fachner, the principal, said that if the school scored at least a 900 for their API score that they could have a dress up week. Well, as you can see they did. Not only did they score at least 900, they scored 939. We are officially higher than the GATE school in LUSD. I feel so blessed for my kiddos to be at such an amazing school. =)

First day of First grade

2009-08-24T17:52:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that I have a child in first grade already. Isabella has grown up so much over the summer! She went from a size 5 top to a size 7. Most of her size 6 bottoms are too small. When I look at these picture I am sad and happy at the same time. I am sad because my baby girl is getting so grown up and I am happy because she loves life and loves learning and is loving the fact that she is grown up. I'm just trying to enjoy every moment that I can!

At Isabella's school they have uniforms and I really wanted to spice them up so I put some cute pink and blue hair bows in her hair and these adorable Vans. We got dinged for her shoes because they weren't school colors but she looked darn cute in them. =) At least she got to wear them once at school.

Welcome Back to School...

2009-08-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

On Friday, July 24th Isabella had a Welcome Back to School. Mrs. Tiede had some fun things planned, as usual! First we made our quilt pieces. Every month Mrs. Tiede makes a different quilt out of the kids work that goes with what they are leaning. Our two quilt pieces at back to school were about summer. She was to make a swimming scene at the beach and then she was supposed to write about what she did for her summer. It turned out way cute. Then we made a fish tank with a rice cake, blue cream cheese, and goldfish. That was so cute too. =) Chase was so good, he sat in a chair the entire time and played his Nintendo DS. That DS comes in handy a LOT!

Isabella was so excited to see her friends and she couldn't wait for school to start! =)

Ryan's Good-bye Party...

2009-08-24T17:40:00.000-07:00

The Saturday before Ryan left for the National Guard, Danicia and Ryan had a party for him. The party was great! It was so nice to see everyone who showed up and we were planning on leaving early since Isabella started school that Monday but we just couldn't leave. We stayed until about 10:30 or 11. We all miss Ryan tons and can't wait to write him and send him a package. =)

Bye, bye, Rye, Rye....

2009-08-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

Well, one thing that we had to do recently was say goodbye to Ryan for 7-8 months. That was really sad for my kiddos! Ryan and Danicia came over and we had dinner on a week night before Ryan left. It was so nice to have that time with him. Chase especially loved it as you can see. We had Tio Pepes, one of Ryan's favorites since he won't be having any good Mexican food for a while. We had a great evening! =)

I'm so far behind....

2009-08-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I have so much to update on my blog that I don't even know where to start. We were so busy over the summer that I have lots to add from the summer but I also haven't even blogged about Isabella's first day of school which was a month ago! AHHHHH! So here's to catching up! =)

Muir Woods...

2009-08-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

One of the places we went this summer was the Muir Woods. (Muir Woods is North of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.) Isabella, Chase, my Mom and I went there together. On the way there Isabella and Chase were talking about how boring it was going to be and the moment we got there they were in awe. They talked the entire time about how beautiful it was and how great it smelled. They surprisingly enjoyed themselves. The weather was awesome. It was nice and cool. A great change to the Valley weather.

1st annual 4th of July in Pismo...

2009-07-31T11:26:00.000-07:00

So, we have officially decided that we will be visiting Pismo every 4th of July. As always we had a blast this trip! =) Here's a quick review of what we did below.

Take a look at this monster. They were calling it the amphibian. It is a boat and has wheels for land. This was very fun for all of us to watch. We saw this on the first day that we went to the beach.

How is it that the ice cold water doesn't bother kids? My kids loved the water. They were covered from head to toe in it. They were also covered in sand too.

Auntie DeeDee and Uncle Danny saved this box for Isabella and Chase to play in. It was a definite highlight of the weekend.

Then on the 4th we staying in all day because we didn't want to fight any of the crazy crowds during the day. We had a blast playing Marble Madness pretty much all day. We got Jordan hooked for sure. Then we had an amazing dinner for a late birthday for Uncle Danny. After dinner we headed to the beach for the amazing fireworks show. Chase didn't love all the illegal fireworks, or "pre-show", going on. He thought it was too loud. Isabella did too but they eventually warmed up to it.

In this picture below is Isabella's new best friend, or Jordan's girl friend. Isabella loved her!

I couldn't believe how crazy the beach was for fireworks. I've never seen anything like this! It was so much fun to be a part of the craziness.

Our last day there we decided to spend the day in Avila. The kids loved playing in the water and sand.

The kiddos were also able to try kayaking all by themselves. They did an awesome job. Uncle Danny and Daddy are great teachers.

So, I can't wait for our next trip to Pismo, only 6 more days! =)

Finally boating

2009-07-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

Isabella and Danicia with their matching wakeboards.

Isabella trying to wakeboard for the first time.

Danicia and Isabella

Chase helping Daddy drive the boat.

Chase watching Daddy wakeboard.

I think this is the longest we have ever gone during the summer before we went out on the boat for the first time. Our first time out on the boat was on July 2nd.

Danicia and Ryan, Dylan and Brittany, and Papa Tractor and Grandma Cookie all came out on the boat with us. Ryan ended up not being able to come out because he has to work. We had a great time.

Isabella tried wakeboarding for the first time. She did an awesome job. She didn't get up but I am so proud of her for trying. You can see her attempt on the short video.

Kenzie turns one

2009-07-10T17:28:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't have a picture of adorable Kenzie. I did take her 1 year old pictures but I haven't proofed them yet. I will post a picture of her asap. =)

Isabella wasn't at Kenzie's birthday because she was having fun with her cousin, Serenity. She went to go watch her dance in Fresno with Papa Tractor and Grandma Cookie. So this is why all the picture are of Chase.

Happy first Birthday Kenzie! =)

Ryan was so nice to be Chase's little buddy for a little while. Chase was a big boy and was jumping off the rocks just like Ryan was. It was so cute. Chase had a great time and cried when we had to leave.

Mini-piano lesson...

2009-07-10T17:25:00.000-07:00

Well, Vola watched my kids one day so that I could go to the doctor. I came back and she was giving Isabella a piano lesson. It was so cute. Isabella was eating it up. Since Isabella can read I guess that means she is ready for piano lessons. I need to clean up around our piano so that she can actually practice on it.

Rocky Road Yumminess

2009-07-10T17:14:00.000-07:00

Since I've been on Weight Watchers I seem to always eat the same desserts. Dessert is one thing that I WILL NOT give up. So, I have been trying to be more creative in the desserts that I make. I want a great dessert that isn't too many points. Here is one of those desserts. I actually made this for the first time on Father's Day and then the second time for Danny Stocks birthday. Everyone always loves it and can't believe that it is a low-calorie dessert. It is made from frozen yogurt, slow churned ice cream, reduced fat Oreos, marshmellows, peanuts, and fat free chocolate drizzle. It is pure yumminess. (Drool Brenda, Drool)

Treated like a princess

2009-07-10T17:09:00.000-07:00

We went to Mikayla's birthday party this year. We usually aren't able to make it for one reason or another. This year was a great year to be able to make it.

We showed up and Isabella had her hair done. She was so excited and loved every moment of it. She sat so still in the chair and let Terri do whatever she wanted. End result...a beautiful Princess Jazmine.

Then we made jewelry/photo holders. What a cute idea.

We had tons of fun at Mikayla's 5th birthday party! =)

Fun in Bakersfield...

2009-07-10T13:24:00.000-07:00

I just love this picture of Isabella, KK, Chase, and Uncle JJ. Yes, my brother is wearing some crazy pants...he always does. =) We love visiting Bakersfield! =)

Scrapbooking CKC style

2009-07-09T14:45:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity to go to Pasadena for Creating Keepsakes Convention. It was so much fun and SO exhausting. On Thursday we scrapbooked from 9-5 and made a 20 page 12x12 album. I finished all but one page with pictures and everything. Then from 6:30-9:30 we had a sketches crop where we make a ton of 12x12 pages. On Friday and Saturday we went to many classes, shopped, and we even went to a crop on Friday night. We got so much scrapbooking done.

One bummer was that Wednesday night my Mom got the stomach flu so I had to juggle my kids around for a 24 hour period while she recovered from that. I was a little stressed about it.

I also went to a Whole Foods market for the first time and I was in awe the entire time in there. It was amazing!

We also ran across a little shop called Dots cupcakes. It was actually right next door to our hotel. It was so cute and they had the best cupcakes ever. We figured they did since they were SO busy! Check them out at www.dotscupcakes.com. They are so stinkin' cute!!

I don't know why I didn't expect Pasadena to be nice but it was extremely nice. It is a VERY high end town. I loved our trip to Pasadena.

Celebrating the boys...

2009-07-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

In June we finally had a "baby shower" for Heather and Darlene. It was a fun shower because Parker and Brew were able to come to it since they were already born. =)

The theme was chocolate so we had a chocolate fountain...yum! I also gave baby blue M&M's as a party favor to go along with the chocolate theme. I didn't do too much since it wasn't supposed to be a shower but rather a get-together for all the girls. I just had to do a few things. I couldn't resist. =)

MIchael Jackson...

2009-07-06T13:03:00.001-07:00

Well, since I have been traveling so much I haven't had the opportunity to write my thoughts on the death of Michael Jackson. What a shock it was to hear that Michael Jackson had died. As I thought back to when Thriller was released (I was 6) I remember it still years later and watching it on MTV. As a child I LOVED Michael Jackson. His music, dancing, and style were so popular and beyond their time. I loved every hit song of his and remember dancing and signing to them with my friends. I even remember trying to do the moonwalk and totally sucking at it! =) Then in college I did a sign and song to this song still 13 years later I loved this song!

I also feel very sorry for Michael Jackson. He had to grow

up very young and also dealt with an abusive father. Then the allegations of child abuse came and the media hung him. He wasn't even able to have a fair trial. The only person who truly knows Michael Jackson's heart is God. I feel that he got screwed. He was rich and there were some who saw the perfect opportunity to make some great money. Michael Jackson in my eyes was like a child. Never having the opportunity to have a childhood he strived as an adult to have one. If someone abused my child there isn't a dollar amount that I'd take to let him go. That person would pay. I would hope that others would love their child enough to do the same thing. This is one reason why I feel that Jackson got screwed.

Well, now he is a peace with himself and now he will

be remembered as the King of Pop!

1958-June 25, 2009

Also the same day we had the death of Farrah Fawcett. What a remarkable woman she was. I saw a documentary of her struggle with cancer and it broke my heart at all the fighting she did and ultimately cancer won in the end. To have to watch someone die of cancer is the worst thing. If you haven't had the chance you have to watch the documentary. It is amazing!

Summer pictures...

2009-07-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I took pictures of one of Isabella's best friends, Olivia. I didn't have intentions to take pictures of my kids but happened to snap a few. I went to a few new places in Lodi that I hadn't been before. We had such a great time.

Official last day of school..

2009-06-16T20:14:00.001-07:00

The last day of school was a half day and the day was spent at Micke's Grove Zoo. It was tons of fun. Isabella got to hang out with her buddies and I got to hang out with my buddy, Jaime. We had an interesting group but we made the most of it. All in all it was a great end to a great year! =)

They have a perikeet section at the zoo right now and you can actually feed the bird. Some of the birds were even on arms and heads of those in the area. It was very cool!

Last day in the classroom as a Kindergartner...

2009-06-16T20:02:00.001-07:00

On the Thursday of the last week of school the parents were invited into the classroom to see their Kindergartners for the last time. Mrs. Tiede did many things. She also made each child a scrapbook and presented it to them tied up with a book from her. She read that book to them. My mom was here so she was able to come in and see Isabella as a Kindergartner for the last time. Isabella was so excited that her Grandma Hockey was there!

Then we, parents, presented Mrs. Tiede with a new lunch bucket with all the students' hand prints and their names written by them. We were also able to present her with a $100 gift certificate to Wine and Roses. She will now be able to get a well deserved massage, pedicure, manicure...whatever her heart desires.

Field Day..

2009-06-16T19:57:00.000-07:00

Isabella last week of school was full of FUN things. One of those was field day. I was able to help out a lot the last week of school thanks to my wonderful Mom who came and stayed with me for the week so that she could watch Chase.

Isabella had a lot of fun at field day. I love the picture where she is playing volleyball. She kept that stance the entire time she was standing there. It totally cracked me up because she was the only one who was ready the entire time. Not sure where she learned that but I'm thinking maybe we have a volleyball player in the making. =)

Donuts for Dads...

2009-06-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

I'm so glad that Danny actually took pictures at Donut for Dad's. I'm not exactly sure what went on but you can tell by Isabella's face that she had TONS of fun with her Daddy. I'm so thankful that Isabella has such a great Dad who is involved in her life. It makes her happier than he'll ever know! =)

Britney and her "boyfriend"..

2009-06-05T20:22:00.001-07:00

I was surprised to see this picture on my camera since I didn't take it. I'm thinking that someone was nosey and got into my purse and took my camera out and started taking some pictures. But, I am grateful that she took this picture so that I can introduce her "boyfriend", David (we all really know him as her fiance).

End of the school year...

2009-06-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

This year for our teacher gift we got a great idea from Brenda. We too fortune cookies, dipped the corner in chocolate, and then dipped it into sprinkles. They were tons of fun to make and Brenda and I were able to do them together. Then we had chinese take out boxes to put them in. To top this gift off Brenda found a cute children's book and another book on fortune cookies. I made a tag for it that said, "I was fortune-ate to have you as my teacher. Love, Isabella Brandow" It was bright and colorful and I think that Mrs. Tiede loved it. I love doing creative things rather than just putting something easy together.

Pismo Beach - Day 3...Last Day

2009-06-01T22:26:00.000-07:00

Today was a fun but exhausting day. We packed a lot of stuff into this day. First we headed down to the beach to meet Danny and Danny. They went out kayaking and met us. They brought us 2 starfish to check out. We love seeing the starfish. Then we hung out for a little while. Then the boys decided it would be fun to surf the waves in the kayak through a cave. YES, they are crazy! The video of Danny falling in and making it is above. They are fun to watch!

Then we left and went to HotLix in Pismo. Deanna had to buy the kids a sucker with a scorpion in it. It made for great show and tell in Isabella classroom last Friday. They also had worms and chocolate covered and flavored crickets. So disgusting but the kids had to check them out!

We then headed back to Deanna's to eat and then the girls did a little shopping and then we packed up and headed to Avila. (If Chacos would have been open I would have ate there.)

We went on a bike ride for about an hour to Avila beach and back. It was so fun. I just love that bike trail. After we biked we headed back home. We got on the road at about 7pm. We have to use every minute we can when we are in Pismo.

This was a great trip. I love all the memories that we make with Deanna and Danny! We love having out with them.

Thanks Deanna and Danny for such an amazing weekend. You two are the best! =)

Pismo Beach - Day 2...

2009-06-01T07:10:00.000-07:00

Well, we were pretty lazy on Sunday. But it felt SO good! The highlight of Sunday was our bonfire on the beach. Every time we go to the beach we have a bonfire. Deanna made sure to bring the S'Mores and I had two. And they were SO yummy!! Nothing better than a S'More when you have been dieting for over a month.

This was our first time to the beach that weekend. Even though it was dark and late the kids were totally into playing in the sand since we hadn't been to the beach yet. That's what they did the entire time which was nice for our adult socialization.

The boys were totally into melting the water bottles. They especially loved the one above because of the bubble that was made. They were funny! They were actually trying to make it explode but it never happened. It just always melted.

After we bathed the kids and they were in bed we pulled out Sequence and played a few rounds. Danny and I were the champions of the night! =) I just love playing Sequence. I could play it all night but the others wanted some sleep. Can't blame them.

Tough girl...(Pismo extra)

2009-05-31T23:30:00.000-07:00

Before

After

When we were in Pismo Isabella wanted to get her ears pierced. Danny and I had decided that when Isabella wanted to get her ears pierced and that it was her choice that we would let her. She actually been asking for a little while but we have been delaying it. When we passed the Claire's outlet in Pismo she noticed that they pierced ears and she was begging to do it. I warned her that it was going to hurt and that if she did one side she HAD to do the other.

So we walked in and I know that she was nervous because her hands were sweaty. Her Daddy does that too when he is nervous. =)

There was a lady about ready to get her ears pierced and Isabella wanted to watch her. After she was finished Isabella decide that maybe she didn't want to get her ears pierced. We told her that was fine and that it was her decision.

Then right after that a 5 1/2 year old girl, the same age as Isabella, walked in to get her ears pierced. Isabella insisted that she wanted to watch her. After Isabella watched her get her ears pierced she deceided that she wanted to do it again. I am so glad that the little girl didn't start balling when she had hers done or it would have been all over. She was also a tough girl and gave Isabella a lot of confidence.

Well, of course, I had to video the experience and I think that Isabella's face when the earrings go in is priceless. They also had an option to do both ears at the same time. I am so glad! It was perfect. We couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Isabella picked out pink daisy earrings. Of course they HAD to be pink! =)

Pismo Beach - Day 1...

2009-05-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

Well, everytime we go to Pismo we do SO many things. We never even do everything that we want to. So hopefully next time we can stay longer. On Saturday we went to Strawberry Festival. It was so much fun. We went last year by accident but we planned on it this year. Maybe it will be our annual trip to Pismo. I hope so! Even though Deanna didn't have the boys that weekend we were able to still see them. Isabella and Chase were happy. Isabella pretty much sat on Jordan's shoulders the entire time. Thank goodness for Jordan because she was still weak from being sick and I don't think that she would've made it. We got to park at the fire-station which was a huge plus!

We had Chacos for lunch! Ahhh, it was SO good. The chips just melt in your mouth and the homemade tortillas are to die for. Every time that I go to Pismo I HAVE to go to Chacos. Even the kids love it.

Then on Saturday night we went to the dirt track races. This brought back so many memories of the many times that I watched my Dad race or went to the races with him. Dirt track racing is by far the best to watch! We all enjoyed ourselves. The kids loved it at first but then started to get sleepy. Isabella cried herself to sleep because she thought she lost her ring but Uncle Danny saved the day and found it. Then Danny and Uncle Danny carried Isabella and Chase into the pits. Isabella and Chase got to get into a sprint car (one of Uncle Danny's friends) and sit in it. They were both so sleepy so they didn't quite enjoy it as much as they should have.

We had a great first day!

Are you ready for some football??

2009-05-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

What a great friend I have. My friend Catherine rented a suite at the last Arena Football game and invited a few of her friends to join her in the fun.

So Danny and I experienced an arena football game together for the first time. We had a lot of fun.

When we walked into the stadium Danny was approached by an employee and asked if he wanted to play a kick off game after the first quarter. Of course we egged him on and he reluctantly told them he would. The video above is what he did. He had to try and kick a field goal from the 20 - 15 - 10 - and then 5. He almost made it but we still got a certificate for a dinner for two to the Old Spaghetti Factory. It was so cool to see him down on the field.

We had a great time! Thanks Catherine for being such an amazing friend! =)

My first time ever...

2009-05-15T10:42:00.000-07:00

I made strawberry freezer jam for the first time yesterday. It was SO easy. I made a little basket as a gift to Mrs. Tiede for teacher appreciation. It turned out so cute! =) I'm so glad that Brenda talked me into trying it. Thanks Brenda!

Kaehler Dairy

2009-05-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Isabella's class went on a field trip to Kaehler Dairy on Armstrong in Lodi. This dairy has been in business for over 100 years. They milk the cows 24/7. They have someone there at all hours milking. Dairy farmers are HARD workers! It is amazing eveything they have to do to get us that little glass of milk on the table.

Isabella got to feed a cow. (There is a video below of her feeding the cow.) She was very nervous at first. I don't think she wanted all that slower on her hand. =)

Isabella go to pet a 2 week old cow.

Isabella got to feel the suction that they milk the cows with.

These girls had so much fun together the entire day!

This is the group that we had and the dairy. Left to right we have: Emaleah, Stephano, Isabella, Tess, and Giselle.

Isabella got to milk a cow.

Isabella got to feed a baby cow.

We got to see a baby cow that was born that morning. She was so cute. They only get to stay with their mother for less than 24 hours. So sad! =(

We had an awesome time. Isabella went to a dairy in preschool but she didn't get to do all of the fun things that she did yesterday. What an awesome experience. At the end they asked who wanted to be a dairy farmer and I think Isabella's hand shot up the fastest. =)

Teacher Appreciation Week..

2009-05-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

UPS is celebrating teacher appreciation week this week. Tina Borra asked me if I would be in charge of a treat on Monday. This is what I did. With the Polinsky's help we made chocolate fondue for the teachers. It turned out awesome and yummy. Doesn't this just make your mouth water? =) I had to do something for this week because having been a teacher I know how much we need to thank them for all they do. I am so thankful for Mrs. Tiede and all she has done and continues to do for Isabella and all the other kids in her class. She is awesome! =)

Hot 104.7's baby shower..

2009-05-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple pictures from the baby shower that I hosted. I put a lot of time into all the details of my table and everything turned out exactly as I pictured it! I stressed for nothing! This was an awesome opportunity for Misty's Portraits. I am very excited about that.

Muffin's for Mom

2009-05-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

The Friday before Mother's Day the Kindergarten and first graders had Muffin's for Mom. It was so awesome. All the Mom's were sitting and the kids came in and sang about 5 songs to us. (The first one that they sang is below. It is hard to see Isabella because I was at a weird angle but toward the end of the video she turns and looks at me...too cute!)

They made these cute purses and inside was a letter to Mommy's. We also had a homemade corsage, my favorite! (I actually wore it to church on Mother's Day.) They also chalked a picture.

Each class had a poster that each child said why their Mom was special.

I've always wanted to be special for going to the movies with my daughter! LOL =)

This would be a picture of me that Isabella drew. Love it! =)

Here is a closer look at my corsage. This picture was actually taken by Isabella herself.

Here is the picture that Isabella chalked. This is definitely frame worthy! I love it!

You have to listen to this song. It is so cute! It's really short. Enjoy! =)

Dear to my heart...

2009-05-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

Well, at Isabella's school a few years back they had a teacher that died of cancer. Ever since then they have been a part of Relay for Life in Lodi. On May 1st they had the kids wear purple to support the fight for cancer. Since my Daddy died of cancer two years ago this is something that is dear to my heart! I'm so glad that they involve the school in great events such as this!