The Dorman Waves of Life

A bit of luck did come our way!

2011-03-26T21:12:00.008-10:00

Wow, I go a really long time without blogging. This St. Patricks day we were able to do something I have never done. Attend a Celtic Party! Jeremy has a friend from work who happens to live in our neighborhood who threw a interesting St.Patricks Day Party. There were Irish and Scottish attire, games and food. I wish I knew the names of the games, although the food was easy. There was yummy ruebon sandwichs, apple mashed potatoes and sweet potatoe casserole all Irish inspired. Needless to say it was such an interesting party.

Our Last Mele Kalikimaka In Hawaii

2010-12-26T21:11:00.003-10:00

It's always bittersweet when you know you will be leaving somewhere soon and moving on. This year we decided to venture down to City Hall and see the beautiful lights. It was something we never did with the kids so we thought we would do it since next Christmas we will be living somewhere else. We went with some family friends of ours and besides being the most humid night ever....it was enjoyable. Check out the Wreath made out of puzzle pieces

Jeremy was trying to show Kya how to act scared of the Snow Monster....cute huh

Kya Turns 9

2010-12-19T16:35:00.004-10:00

Well another year passes and my little guy turns one year older. Christmas is always hectic mentally for me. So I feel very blessed that I can just make birthdays simple and still let my children know how thankful Iam for them. We picked up Kya afterschool (oh and after I delivered 28 reindeer cupcakes which I forgot to take a picture of) then we took him to Baskin Robbins at the nearby PX. He had what was probably hes first banana spilt and he ordered it exactly how it looks in the picture. He enjoyed all of it oh and performing again at his school later that night.

She Did Good!

2010-12-08T19:50:00.006-10:00

On Monday December 6, Collai went into labor to give birth to what would have been her third baby. It came about eight days early and it was probably one of my worst nightmares when it comes to puppy births. Her water broke and then from there one it went fast. I actually went out to the shed to get a tub, and my friend Vonya yelled to me that baby was already out. We aren't sure what the sex was although it looked just like Skipper, all black with a tint of white on the chest. It was moving and even making noise, but something looked really wrong about that whole thing. Long story short it had a major birth defect and died about a half hour after being born. What a horrible thing to witness...and then to see Collai look for the baby has been hard. Im so gratful I wasn't alone, I had great friends around to help in everyway. I really love Collai and Im just grateful I didn't loose her. She's a little crazy yet so loveable. This is the end of her motherly years and that in it's self is a bitter sweet thing.

What A Great Concert Kya

2010-12-04T21:33:00.004-10:00

This year Kya expressed interest in joining the choir at school. Of course I was so excited that he said this....Kya never wants to join anything. He loves it so much....and tonight they had their first performance at the mall. The pictures I took are great although the video is even better. I would have to say that Kya was really showing off his moves. It was such a fun show, what made it even better is my girlfriend's son is also part of the choir so we all had fun together.

Let it Be Christmas!

2010-11-28T20:28:00.005-10:00

This truely is one of my most favorite times of the year. The kids and I pulled out the old Christmas Tree......it was a bargain from one of the many thrift stores in Colorado. Every year I put the tree up I loose a ton more ferns from the branches and I think that this is the last time I will put it up. Although we have had the tree now for about 7 years, so it's sort of hard for me to throw it out.
Skipper has some crazy booger glue, because almost everytime we look at hiim something is stuck to his nose. This morning it was a red bead from a wreath I have up. He looked like Rudolph.......you be the judge
We found the cutest toy navity at Toys R Us a couple of months ago and had to buy it. It is made by play mobil. The background isn't that impressive (as it is made from card board) although the people are cute and fun. Even Skipper wanted in the fun.

I just love Christmas!

Wow.....Im awful at this blogging Thing

2010-10-06T19:30:00.006-10:00

NOt sure that I can catch up on everything that has happened in the past few months. Although some things that have happened seem pretty important. This year we started are new school year. Kya is now in third and after much confusion Lucy is back in first grade with the hopes she has a positive more fulfilling year then last. I did take a picture of them on the first day of school and it wasn't the best one that they have ever taken. Although pictures never lie right?
We even had our back to school nights and got to meet their teachers. I love doing this because then I get a chance to see what they are really doing. Kya can be very sneaky sometimes.lol
Lucys teacher Mrs. St. Germaine and she seems to be a good teacher for Lucy this year.

Kya has Miss Vetter.....bless her for having the patience to deal with Kya. Kya is not a bad boy, or student. He is a distracted student....and that is where the issues begin. He is enjoying his class so far, his best friend Sam from last year is with him.

Well of course I have more to add.....I will jump on here again I promise. To all who read this take care!

Good Times with Uncle Race

2010-07-18T22:38:00.006-10:00

It's hard to believe the summer is coming to an end. I remember like it was yesterday when it started. Definitely one of our highlights is seeing Uncle Race. It's been a few years since we have seen him, and even then we didn't get to spend quality time together. His shipped passed through Oahu so we were able to go get him and have some fun. Of course we had to take him to one of our favorite spots...Bellows.

Jeremy decided it was a good day to Kayak......Race really enjoyed that.

It was fun to hang out and see him interact with his niece and nephew. Lucy had fun looking for crabs with Uncle Race...I love how Race looks ready to go to work with his tiny shovel!

Jeremy's schedule at work has been really erratic and hard to really go out and do some family fun activities. Although going to the water park was something we definitely wanted to do with the kids. Race was up for it as well.....and we had a great time.

Camp Pupukea

2010-06-20T09:32:00.007-10:00

I feel like I should share my true most honest thoughts about this whole Camp Pupukea......but I dont want to be in a bad mood today. There was just alot of weird drama surrounding this event for the scouts in Kya's so called pack. So anyways, Saturday our wonderful Daddy woke up from his barely six hours of sleep and we drove up to Camp Pupukea. It's a really neat experience for the cub scouts to earn belt loops for lots of different types of activities. Kya was able to go up on Friday and do the bee-bee gun which he did very well with. Saturday we did a hike together, played chess and did some gymnastics obstacle course. Lucy hurt her neck the day before so she was a little bit of a pill during most of the activities. During the hike we stopped and had snack...little micro smores.

Lucy even ended up having to go to the little doctor on sight for falling and scrapping her hip pretty badly.
Jeremy and Kya participated in chess.....this is a picture of Kya right after Daddy beat him in a game
But overall I was proud of her trying to get past her pain and let us have an experience together as a family. I can't wait till next year when I think we will have an even better time because we now know what to expect!

Catching up

2010-06-12T12:56:00.001-10:00

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What A Wonderful Job

2010-05-09T20:17:00.006-10:00

Before I was married I can honestly say I wasn't thrilled with the idea of having children. My mom would tell you horror stories of what my dolls looked like when I was a kid. Although once I fell in love with Jeremy and got married that all changed. Even though I don't really think I knew the extent of the responsibility, I was definetly excited about starting a family with him. We lost our first baby and then quickly had Kya after that. Kya was a happy happy baby....then he became a difficult toddler and now he is an amazing little boy. Even though we have our difficult moments....I can't imagine not hearing his contagious laugh or listening to his annoying whistleing everyday. Kya tries really hard to make good choices which tells me that he has a kind sensitive heart. Im so happy Heavenly Father let me be his mother.
Even though I had a little boy.....I was so excited that I would beable to raise one of each.....and then there was Lucy. She is a beautiful little girl and ever since she has been with our family I have felt like Angels are watching over us. Unfortunately I have had three horrorible moments in my life where I had a glimpse of what life would feel like if she wasn't here. Thankfully it has never been a reality and she is still with us. She is a very independent, sensitive and loving.
One thing I love about both my kids, is there love for family and the gospel of Jesus Christ. I love the way they trust Jeremy and I as we try to teach the morals they need to be good citizens. Yes being a mother is hard......but being a mother is also so amazing. I owe alot to my mom, who taught me so much. I wouldn't be the mother Iam today without her example.

Pine Wood Derby Time

2010-04-25T09:32:00.004-10:00

Jeremy and Kya worked pretty hard on making sure this year Kya would have a competitive car at the Pine Wood Derby. They learned certain teniques and gave extra attention to detail to get it just right. Kya had the fastest car about a month ago at the ward level competition. He received some ribbons and bag of gummies bears (which is always exciting for a kid). It also allowed him to go on to the district level races in Honolulu. It was intense....I think more so for the Dads! Jeremy was so tense and even a little upset that he was 2 grams under the weight mark. Ultimately Kya ended up at 6th place out of 40+ cars. He even had the over all fastest run time....but unfortunately the average of all his run times wasn't enough to give him a trophy.
At least not this year......"We will come back next year stronger". (Jeremy's words) Those of you who know Kya would expect as we did for a complete melt down, although he was the best sport and actually seemed pretty happy about where he placed. He was rewarded with a new video game....what little boy wouldn't love that!

2010-04-11T21:32:00.003-10:00

Im not going to lie, especially in my own blog. It's so easy to always ask ourselves "Why me? Why now? and How can I change everything. These are horrible questions that literally drive me batty. I know for a fact we are never given more then we can handle. I look, listen and think about all those around me and the things that they endure. Im constantly in aww... and inspired to keep pushing on. My mother is in constant pain do to her diabetes, my sweet older sister is a struggling single mom trying to manage life being unemployed and provide her daughters with the best possible life, my twin sister who is running in five hundred directions with five kids and despite what she wants to do for herself she is always thinking about her family. I draw strength from my friends too.........I have one who spends alot of time alone because her husband is deployed and she is so selfless and giving and keeps trucking through each day. So where am I going with this......well it just makes me think what others see when they look at me. Are they things that I want others to see. I have battled depression and anxiety for a long time. I have gone through spurts of time when Im completely unaffected..........but unfortunately things never stay unaffected for me. My cup will empty and I feel good....then it will slowly feel up till it over flows. The over flow is not a fun place, one I wish I could just run away from everyone so know one sees me. But the truth is I need everyone, I would never beable to do this alone. Thank you to everyone who listens to me cry, doesn't judge me just loves me for me and most of all your examples of seeing the joy in life. Truely our purpose in life is to feel joy not to let our trials destroy our feeling of joy. Im thankful for my fighting spirit that I have been given and of course for my knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Okay now I need to go and kill a flying bug that has hit my computer twice while writing this post. love to all

Listen to ulibkos playlist

2010-04-11T21:22:00.001-10:00

Skipper playing with Po

2010-03-01T16:02:00.000-10:00

2010-02-21T16:27:00.002-10:00

Our whole family decided to participate in the Give a Day, Get a Day from Disney. Its always nice to have an opportunity to teach our children the importance of giving service and in this case have a wonderful reward. We decided to do eight hours at our SPCA. At first it sounded dreadful because I had the fear our children wouldn't make it through the day. Although they pulled through and really jumped in and did what was expected of them. We had a fun time and really bonded together as we served. The kids don't believe that we are really going to Disneyland.....but Jeremy and I promise that we will get them there. I know that when they do, they will remember all the hard work they did to get there! Working at the shelter is always very touching, its hard to see so many animals that need homes. I hope each of us can remember giving just a little bit of our time to these critters really does make a difference in their lives too. Enjoy the slide show!

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A Sweet Day

2010-02-14T20:13:00.003-10:00

Happy Valentines Day to everyone reading this. It was a nice day for us as a family. I often think about the things in our life that define who we are. For me its my religious beliefs and my eternal companion. Im not saying that I have no other influences that have helped define who Iam....because trust me there are many. It's just I look at my husband and I can't help but think where the heck I would be if it wasn't with him in a wonderful marriage. Ten years ago our whirlwind love story blossomed, as he proposed to me in my bedroom which was then our second date (techinally). Six weeks later he flew back to California for our third date.....which found us in the Oakland Temple being sealed together forever. Im grateful for his courage and all the faith he had to follow his heart. He doesn't read my blog but that is okay because I make it a point to kiss him and tell him I love him everyday.
Tonight Jeremy amazed the kids with his crazy fire starting skills. Im not kidding, Kya really thought his dad ruled the fire world. Anyways it was warm, smelled good, and the marshmellows were roasted.

Oh and a cute picture of Skipper to top off the blog for today.

Just a Little Note

2010-02-04T20:03:00.005-10:00

Well I have no real reason to blog other then number Im completely laid up because of my pain in my lower back area, and two I have a puppy that I know quite a few people want to see. Jeremy bought me a really nice camera and I keep hoping that I have some crazy unknown talent. I just want to turn it on and take wonderful pictures like my sister can do. Although I went out in the yard the other night and I think the only really nice picture I took was of the teather ball. Then Lucy was so kind to model her new dress I just made for her for Valentines Day. It was a long time coming for her to get a new dress that actually fit nicely!
Ok then there is our little Panda.....because that is what I think he looks like. We even call him "Po" (kung fu panda). Enjoy the pictures he is three weeks old now.

Enjoy The Pictures..............

2010-01-16T11:26:00.000-10:00

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Welcome Baby Moo Moo

2010-01-15T17:12:00.004-10:00

It's been a long labor, she started at 5:00am this morning and finially popped the little guy out at about 3:30pm. Collai is a champ baby #number two for her and both were breech. Enjoy the video... love ya all and miss everyone so much
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUtGwJR5680

2009-12-26T19:43:00.003-10:00

I can't really put into words what it meant to see my little boy be baptized today. Of course I was so happy....although I felt much more then that. I shed my tears not while I watched my sweet husband do the honors, although it was while I listened to the music being song by the members who came. It reminded me so much of the spirit I felt many many years ago when Amy and I took the plunge. That day set the stage for so many wonderful opportunites for my life. I can only think of the same possibilities that will come Kya's way if he stays on his path and continues to follow the Savior.
We had so much support from our ward family.....I wasn't that surprised knowing how sweet our ward is. Kya received many aloha leis filled with candy, money and flowers. I think he was surprised to receive so many gifts. I didn't think it was nessesary but still really sweet to say the least.

A Quiet but Sweet Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T22:30:00.003-10:00

It was a good morning. On Christmas Eve I wondered how it was going to be, I wasnt in the best mood. Christmas Eve has always been a special night if not the best part of Christmas for Jeremy and I as a family. So him having to be at work everynight effected my attitude. I tried to turn things around, the kids and I went and saw Chipmunks Christmas Eve night. They loved it, and actually went to be bed for me really well.

Jeremy was a trooper, he woke up after only sleeping for an hour and half and did the present thing in the morning. The children were so happy with their gifts, that makes mommy happy. So we send our love to those back home........we miss you all. Sounds like Jeremy and I will be here longer in Hawaii then we were hoping, so maybe some of you can have a Melekaliki Maka with us!

Time to Kill

2009-12-20T21:39:00.003-10:00

Well I'm laying here in bed really, really tired, although I have 27 minutes left on an auction that I have to stay up for. So I then I thought well this is a perfect time to blog.....
This month has been too too busy at times. I still feel like there is not enough time to get all that I need and want to have done. The Christmas party was a fun project. So many members were so thankful and really appreciated the feeling that was created by all the decor! A few members of the ward showed up at the door tonight with their ukulele and sang Christmas Carols. It didn't take long for tears to fall from my face. Anyhow here are some photos from that night.

I will put more pictures later.....Im way too tired right now

Welcome to Party Central

2009-12-15T20:26:00.004-10:00

There is not too much to say, although my little boy turned 8. My wonderful husband helped me throw together a party last minute, and it turned out pretty smashing!

Big Changes On The Way

2009-12-07T21:04:00.010-10:00

Well first off, Jeremy and I (the crazy animal lovers we are) decided to foster some kittens. The two we recieved were completely ferrel. Turns out they are doing great. We have decided to keep the little boy "jackson". He is a great little guy, he tolerates everything and is so easy going. We aren't really sure how the dogs feel about it, although this picture say's it best!
Then there is Lucy with her new grill......we have been waiting what seems like forever for that awful dental work to fall out! Hooray
One more major change for us si that we have decided to up root and move. Those of you who know us well probably are not surprised. We are nervous but at the same time ready for this move. The school is one of the best in Hawaii (which is not saying that much) but we need every inch we can gain from the schools here. It's extremly close to work for Jeremy. There is a great park right out our back door and a beautiful place for a flower garden which Im excited about. Kya and Lucy will have to share a room again. So we will plant here and only pray that we can make it back to California in 18 months.

Why Do I Like This Time of Year!

2009-10-25T15:00:00.004-10:00

Well I really love Fall for all the reasons that don't exactly exist in Hawaii. I miss leaves changing color. The brisk fall air that hits your face in the morning when you first walk outside. I also miss having to find which sweater would be the best to wear. Although despite these things Halloween is still and always will be what it is no matter where you live and what the weather is like. Last night it was muggy and almost wet in Hawaii as our church did the annual Fall Festival. We had a great time. Lucy was a Pink Leopard and Kya was Wolverine. Jeremy and I did the famous cake walk game and then for the trunk or treat we spiffed up the old Astro to be nice and creepy.
This month has gone by really fast. Towards the beginning of October I threw a baby shower at my house. Im not sure if it will go down in the books as one of the greatest baby showers....although it was the only one I have ever thrown, could possibly be that last HAH! Congrats to Tawnie and a healthy baby girl Kaylani.
Well till the next update tata for now

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We had a Great Time Together!

2009-09-24T08:39:00.010-10:00

I know Amy will do a much better job blogging about her trip, although I wanted to share my own feelings. I can't explain what I feel when family comes to Hawaii. I enjoy the island, although I think I enjoy seeing them have fun on this beautiful island when they come. From the moment they arrived you could feel their excitement to have first off survived a long plane ride with five kids...and second to have landed in such a beautiful place.
The kids could hardly wait to get to the beach. Each one of the kids has such a unique personality. Emery is such a sweet young lady, you can feel her happiness when she walks into the room.
I can't remember not seeing a smile on her face everytime I looked at her. Especially when she was loving the puppies.....they do miss you guys (especially in the morning).
Then there is Kelci....really if she had a nickname it would be Cautious Kelci. She knows who she is, and before she does anything you can see her thinking it out. I loved seeing her overcome her fears and just dive in and have fun. Oh and I can never put my finger on who she sounds like when she talks, but I finially did it. She sounds like a Care Bear! Perfect for her...... For the little ones, I think it was a tireing trip and Cambree was the cutest when she left. We asked all the kids what was the best part of the trip "Beach, waterfall, magic show, etc" were the common answers. Then there was Cambree's, she said it was "Briana's house". So there you go Briana, your home is now a vacation attraction in Hawaii, hope you are ready for that. I love her little loving honest heart
Then there is Brody (or should I say my new birth control hah jk). This trip was the first time I have ever seen or really heard him do anything. His personnality shown like crazy.
I had no idea he had such strong Italian genes "Look mommy there is a sharka in the watera". We adored him and all of his defiance, we get to think it is cute because he is not ours! Ok I hate taking people to the airpoort, I can't even see driving home because I have so many tears pouring out of my eye balls. When I got back home the first thing I saw was the baby swing with no Landry. He has to be the happiest little guy, he smiles all the time. I love being mommy's twin because he loves me like her when he can't see her. I hope he stays that way forever!

We had such a great time. I know Amy will eventually put more pictures on her blog and talk more so I will close this off and get my real day started.

The Joke Was On Us

2009-08-08T20:26:00.005-10:00

Today we thought we were going to a cool airshow on Ford Island. Although it wasn't quite what we thought it would be. See it was called "The Biggest Littlest Airshow"....and that was exactly what it was to our surprise. We actually thought it was really fun to watch. These little planes did all the same tricks as a big plane. They even traveled at 150mph and they look so real when they fly.

Our Summer is Officially Over

2009-08-04T15:15:00.003-10:00

Today was the first day back to school.;)
Its been a anticipating school year because our kindergartner was suppose to have done kindergartner over as of about three weeks ago. But little did Lucy know she made phenomenal progress this summer, so the principal called me about week before school started to tell us she made all her benchmarks. She is moving on to first grade.
I love Lucy's teacher (as of now), she seems almost like a pre-1st grade class. I took Lucy to class this morning and as I was leaving I couldn't help but do a little how down dance to the "Oh What A Beautiful Morning" song her teacher turned on. Luckily Lucy was the only one who saw me...and of course couldn't contain herself. I decided I better leave!
Kya is going on to 2nd grade. He really wants to be a Lehua Star this year. So yesterday we talked about what habits he had to change to do that. No more talking in class, no more whistling in class while doing his work, and finish his work in a timely fashion. They seem to be easy goals, although today he already had to be told to stop talking and stop whistling. Poor kid takes after me with the talking in class thing and Jeremy with the whistling problem. I can't whistle anything!
The sad part today was neither one of my kids wanted me to walk them to their classes.......although I kind of had to because I had ALL there school supplies. Lucy let me take a picture of her before I left the classroom....Kya didn't want to have anything to do with that idea

Welcome Africa

2009-07-18T08:19:00.006-10:00

Normally Jeremy has taken the children to the zoo to perform service with the Navy. Then after they have finished their service duties they get to experience a part of the zoo. Although they have never been able to walk around and really learn and look at the animals. So one day I asked them if they wanted to go to the zoo, and their response was, "Do we have to do service?". That was sad to me.....I thought know they shouldn't always have to go to the zoo and pick up trash.
Anyways, so yesterday we took them to the zoo. Our favorite part was the monkeys.....they cracked us up. Check them out trying to find food outside their enclosure. The black monkey was enjoying his fruit loops until he turned around and spilt them all on the ground. He wasn't the brightest guy, because he put his head in the box trying to figure out where all the fruit loops went.
We might have spent too much time watching the monkeys, because now Lucy is convinced she is one....and has now been attempting to climb every tree in the neighborhood.
I think this was the first zoo I have ever been to where they had guinea pigs and goats but it's Hawaii what can we say.

It Could Be a Sin

2009-07-06T20:48:00.010-10:00

I was just thinking that it would almost be a sin if I didn't blog about the 4th of July. I really like the 4th and always have. Today was a good day we went to Kolina Lagoon Beach to soak up the sun and play in the water. We decided this time to try out the snorkling there, and we found it to be fun. It's not completely filled with fish like other places. Although we did get to swim with a few. Then we came home to have a little Bar-be-que with our dear friend Briana and her kids. Im so glad she came over, it made the day that much better for me. We did decide to do some sparklers.....I know we are the rebels.

Then after roasting marshmellows we walked to the pier by our house and watched the Pearl Harbor Fire Work Show. The best part of the day was NO CROWDS. Perhaps the worst part of the day...our house still smells like camp fire smoke from the grill, we learned next time we need to move the grill away from the patio door.

One More Thing....

2009-07-01T22:14:00.004-10:00

Summer has been difficult for me........
Basically my only explanation for it is that when the kids loose their structure they don't know what to do with them selves. I think that is what is going on with Kya. My poor son does suffer from bi-polar disorder, and although there could be worse things to deal with, it's never easy to watch your child struggle no matter what the issue is. His moods have been horrible and tiring to deal with, he has no appetite, sudden burst of physical anger, both Lucy and I really struggle during the day with him. I love him so much and as a mother I just try to be understanding although somewhat disciplinary as well (it's a delicate balance) I'm trying to think of some things to make the day a little more stable for him.....but it's just not the same as what he had at school.
All this being said, we took the kids to Planet Hollywood tonight for dinner. It's a big deal for us because we never go out to restaurants. I took a couple of pictures with my phone because it was so nice to see him smile, eating and taking interest to where we were. Oh and the food was so good!

It's never easy to say goodbye!

2009-07-01T21:50:00.002-10:00

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So when we first arrived to the island we went to the Humane Society and adopted a kitty. We thought at the time whe was full grown....she was so petite and seemed really sweet. Unfortunately tonight we had to take her back to the Humane Society. Ruby was a complicated cat that didn't like anyone but Jeremy. She slept all day and at night decided that was when it was time to demand attention. When Jeremy would get up at the crack of dawn to go to work....all you could hear was Ruby meowing like crazy. There was nothing I could do, she would just bite me. She played with Skipper sometimes, but really didn't care much for Collai. Tonight it's quiet and I find myself not missing Ruby, I really didn't know her. I know she will be adopted soon......as annoying as she was she did have those twilight gold eyes!

No Boredom Today

2009-06-20T09:25:00.002-10:00

Well this summer is going by fast, although we have days where I don't know what to do with myself or the kids. So Jeremy has Fridays off which is nice so we can go do things together that normally on the weekends could be really crowded. So yesterday we decided to go for a drive up the north side of the island to the church bookstore. On our way we stopped to help a stranded couple with their truck. Although their truck was sort of in a ditch.....it was a challenge to maneuver the van close enough to the truck so we could reach their battery. They were a very interesting couple to say it nicely. I will spare you the details. Shortly after we finally got everything hooked up the police arrived. It was a relief to see them, he asked us if we were ok and that if we still had all our belongings. I thought that was interesting..........then thought I wonder if we were putting ourselves in danger by trying to help. I felt bad sort of, but then realized these people didn't take anything and even though we couldn't start their truck (because it had major issues) I know we were being watched over. For Jeremy and I it is just in our nature to stop and help no matter what, not always sure we should but we do.
So we continued on our journey up to the bookstore, did our shopping and then headed back home. Then "bamm" our car over heated.........way out in the middle of no where.
As Jeremy started to make phone calls to get help, I wondered if anyone would stop for us today, like we had for someone else. Then maybe about 10minutes later after I realized we were completely out of engine coolant, someone stopped to help.
It was a nice sight to see a man with a uniform get out of his truck walking toward us. He was on his way to his nephews kindergartner graduation and decided to see if he could help. It turns out he had a huge container of water in the back of his truck. Oh and our car was thirsty........almost all of it went into the radiator and overflow. But it was good enough to get us home. We wouldn't need the tow truck and the cab we were calling. He was an angel to me that day.........and maybe it had something to do with what comes around goes around.
It's never fun to be stranded on a two lane rode 50 miles away from home.....with kids and dogs. I'm so thankful to my Heavenly Father for taking care of us. We love him and we never go a day without telling him this and how thankful we are that he does watch over us. For the last ten years our activity in the church hasn't always been steady. We made a decision when we moved to Hawaii that we would change that cycle. So many good things have happened for us since we have made this decision. I'm not trying to sound like a cheese ball......but I know Heavenly Father is so happy with us and he is blessing us. I don't always feel like we deserve everything he does for us, although that is what pushes me to grow. I want to serve more and give more so he knows that we truly love him and when we serve it is for him we do these things.
This weekend I will be called to Relief Society as a counselor in the Presidency........this is my third calling I hold. I feel so fortunate to be trusted with all of my responsibilities, now I just have to not let him down. :)
Alright enough of all that.........I hope everyone had a great day!

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-01T15:19:00.005-10:00

We had such a wonderful vacation. I love going home to see everyone, especially when everything goes smoothly. I also like coming back home to see that my wonderful friends took care of things while we were gone. The dogs were well fed and loved ;), all my plants and garden were watered and even sprouting strawberries, green beans and tomatoes. Such a wonderful feeling and relief to have wonderful friends that help make our trip so much easier.
We hoped on a military mac flight Saturday and we were lucky enough to get on a DC-8 (commercial plane). It was a nice fast easy flight. We were welcomed by surprise at my mom's house by Amy and the crew. So we headed up to good'ol Yuba City for some rural living. Typical weather forecast for that area is hot, so we went to a great pool that belongs to some members of our church. Since Amy and I were able to be together so close to our birthday we decided to celebrate. Happy 33rd to us....Jeremy made me homemade carrot cake muffins and for Amy she had her favorite strawberry shortcake. Stacey, Mom and the girls were able to come and join us for a our little so called birthday party.
Perhaps the biggest adventure was going to the Science Museum in San Francisco. Typical forecast there.....foggy, cold and windy. We all loved the museum, especially the kids. We saw a "Big and Old Sea Bass", an albino alligator, butterflies of all colors and sizes, tons of beautiful fish and even a bunch of fake stuffed animals. As we left the museum first big oops was loosing Kya, and second we lost our cars. To make a long story short, Kya was thirsty and wanted a drink although never told anyone that was where he was going. We eventually found him....but my heart was going to explode. We parked on a street......which street and how to get back to the street was a mystery still to be figured out. We all walked about 3 miles (even the kids) till we found the cars...not cool at all.
That night Jeremy and I had to make a decision to stay or try and get a flight back to Hawaii. We decided to stay and go see Grandma Jeanette. We ordered pizza in and enjoyed a nice visit, I know she would have liked us to stay longer, we are sorry we couldn't.
Before we flew out on Sunday we spent Saturday at the movies with our cousins and then bowling. It was just a great trip and one that I'm sure the kids will never forget.

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Im Alone Tonight

2009-05-05T21:11:00.002-10:00

Lately that is the case because Jeremy is working. But tonight it is different, Im sitting at the computer checking in on everyone else's lives and I read something that stopped my heart for a moment. A friend of mine from the past lost her husband. I do not know the details but I can only imagine the pain of her lose. Im sweating right now because well it's hot and my air conditioner broke. Im also enjoying, thanks to Briana great chocolate chip cookies and a pepsi (the pepsi was mine). But the best part about tonight will be that my husband will come home. When we say our prayers at night, we always pray he will come back to us safely. I love Jeremy, I can't imagine what I would do if he was gone all of a sudden. Like I said I don't know the circumstances.....but i will pray for Sallie tonight. Funny note, she is the one responsible for my camp name "hazard".....I don't know why she thought that would fit me! We love you Wooleys.....

Hope this works

2009-05-01T10:42:00.002-10:00

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ARGHHHHH!

2009-04-30T20:36:00.003-10:00

Okay that is me screaming because Im no good with electronics. Since my family left the island Wednesday I have been working on a slide show of photos they could enjoy. I guess I have sort of been holding off writing about their visit until I could get the slide show together. I won't give up......time is not on my side. I already miss everyone, it's always weird to go from a full house to a empty one. I was so shocked to have Mom come along with Stacey and the girls. I talked more in those six days then I have the six months I have lived here. That I think is why my tongue is scraped up and sore. It's getting much better now that I don't really have anyone to talk as much. We saw, laughed, swam, ate and just enjoyed each other altogether. Thank you so much for coming...........hopefully we can get the rest the family out here too.

The Parker Family Trip To Visit Us in Hawaii

2009-04-30T07:06:00.002-10:00

Adapting Is A Military Wife's Full Time Job

2009-04-13T21:22:00.002-10:00

Jeremy has finished his assignment in the colorguard and is finially working with the people he is suppose to be with. They have a class to take (of course) and it starts at 3:30pm till 11:00pm Mon-Fri for the next six weeks. It was funny this morning because after he got up and went down stairs for breakfast. It was only 15 minutes later when he came back up stairs to where I was sewing and said "I don't know what to do with myself". Poor guy, I of course found him something to keep him busy or at least help with the anxiety of starting something new today.
I won't be too lonely because Stacey and the girls are coming in 10 days and then Heidi and Clay will be staying here too.
We had a nice Easter, it seemed busy but I didn't mind too much. It was testimony meeting at church today, and Lucy asked us to take her to the stand to talk. She said she wanted everyone to know how thankful she was that her cousins are coming to visit. She wanted to say other things too but of course the cutie sort of froze at the mic and left Jeremy up there to take over. Thank you to Briana for a really nice Easter dinner and having us over. I hope you weren't just telling me you liked the rolls....I promise I have done better.:)
Well I should be sewing for a craft fair that Im going to try to do this weekend. But honestly Im so tired.......and mainly from sewing. Good night my friends.
We went to a baptism for a really neat girl. I thought it was such a wonderful day to get baptized. Then of course Landry was blessed......that was hard for me to not be there for. I saw lots of pictures and am grateful for the amazing support system that surrounds the beautiful Collins Family.

A Beautiful Night!

2009-04-08T21:53:00.005-10:00

So tonight Jeremy and I went on a wonderful sunset cruise for our 9th anniversary. We were worried about what actual sunset we would see because of all the cloud cover there was that day. We shared a dinner table with another couple celebrating their 1st anniversary....so that made us feel good or more like old justkidding:)
After dinner Jeremy and I went to the top of the ship and we saw a whale. Not just once but quite a few times. We weren't so lucky with getting a picture of the whale....although we did see the tail twice and Jeremy saw the nose. We received such a beautiful sunset as well....and Jeremy even got on the dance floor with me. Overall night I give it a 9 out of 10. A 9 because when we got home the babysitter we had wanted to hang around and talk forgetting that Jeremy and I might just want to be alone on our anniversary. It's ok though, won't be the last night together. Oh I was a little disoriented on the boat and at one point while I was walking I ran right into the ship singer's microphone. That was embarrassing, but a very Angela thing to do.

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Spring Break is Coming To An End!

2009-04-02T21:37:00.004-10:00

I just realized how long it has been since I blogged last. We do have a little catching up to do. The kids have been home on spring break the last two weeks. I complain sometimes about that but really I would rather have them here then be alone so much during the day. They have enjoyed playing outside with all the neighborhood kiddos, starting piano lessons (thanks to Briana), scout pinewood derby races (and yes even me and Lucy were a little involved in that one and perhaps the highlight for them getting new awesome bikes for Easter (thank you so much mema). Speaking of Easter.............what are you suppose to say to the Easter Bunny when you sit on his lap. I wasn't going to pay for a picture with the Easter Bunny today at the Nex, although I couldn't resist. Lucy was so happy to see him....she smiled ear to ear and I think just thought he was so cute and cuddly. I don't think she knew what to say, and truthfully I didn't know what she was suppose to say either. Maybe "GoodLuck hoppying around hiding eggs!" Well anyways, I talked Kya into taking a picture too, I told him I would make sure to hurry that way noone he knew would see him sitting on the Easter Bunny's lap. At least the fur ball did give him a high five and not a hug.
Jeremy has been enjoying a short kind of special duty assignment here at Pearl Harbor.
I admire him for doing it, he joined the Navy Colorguard team. Here is a picture that made the local Navy News with a picture of him doing a full burial for a Pearl Harbor Survivor. This assignment ends next week, and it's back to the language world of Chinese and what ever else he wants to speak. We celebrate our 9th anniversary next week....Im so thankful for him, I love him.
I was hoping to go home and visit Amy and the new little guy. It's made me a little on the sad side that I have not been able to get home. The weird part is, Lucy actually feels the same way I do. But she helped me work on odd jobs around here to keep our minds busy. I finially got Easter dresses done and sent off to my beautiful neices between those and selling on my Etsy site I stay quite busy sewing. Well it is getting late. I love you all!

Welcome Landry!

2009-03-22T08:26:00.004-10:00

First off what a great name, one I have never heard of before. Second, I wish i could be there with everyone, new babies are so much fun and bring so much joy. I handled being absent from the hospital yesterday pretty well. I just tried to stay busy and in between my cell phone dying and running around chasing kids....tried to not miss updates.He is so sweet I can't wait to see him and hold him in person. I chose this song to play on my blog because it was the song that was playing on the radio the day I drove home from the hospital with Lucy. I was so fortunate to have my mom and Amy there during the birth. This song hit all the out of wack hormone junk....but I still love it anyways.

Not up to much!

2009-03-13T08:31:00.008-10:00

Well I just wanted to post something, even though it's not profound. I'm looking forward to April....we are getting a new cousin and maybe even having visitors come to Hawaii. I told the kids by the way so neither sister can let me down! Anyways the kids are growing up so fast right now, even physically (they are so much taller then a few months ago). I love this picture I took the other night. ;)I never did get a good picture of skipper on here, so there you go. Cute little guy is now potty trained. We accidently left him out the other day for almost three hours. He minded his house rules. We love him!

Jeremy is doing the man and his car thing....he has been painting pieces of plastic inside to match the outside. It looks really nice, he is very good with details. I think he could do it as a side business. Seriously though I'm impressed with his steady hand and determination. I don't get anything out of saying that in my blog, since he doesn't read my blog HA HA LOL! He didn't take any pictures yet of all the pieces back in the car, Im sure he will later on.

Yesterday I cleaned straight for 8 hours and made a whopping $105 dollars. But the nice thing is I can now buy one of my kids a bike and I was able to watch the beautiful ocean while I cleaned, oh and by the time I got home the kids were tucked away in bed and Jeremy killed a 4inch long centipede (that just made me happy because for once I didn't have to kill the nasty huge creatures.)I love you all my friends and wonderful family

What A Sad Night! Oh And I Love This Song....sorry about that one bad word!

2009-03-09T13:23:00.004-10:00

Ok, maybe that title is a little extreme considering the circumstances. Although those who know my son know that he has a slight problem with forming habits. I guess you could call it OCD. Although seriously the last thing he needs is another diagnosis. Well anyways, back to my point. We have let his hair grow out since moving to Hawaii, and really fell in love with his thick beautiful brown curls. Jeremy was even getting a little jealous that he cant grow his longer too. One big problem.....it was time for all of us to say goodbye to the locks. Kya could not stop twirling his hair until he put a knot in it. It seemed to me the more we reminded him the more it continued. We even tried putting a hat on him....he still found a spot in the back he could twirl. I normally wouldn't make such a deal about it, although his hair was falling out. I know that with Kya habits don't break by themselves. So last night I cut all his hair off. I gave him a nice hair cut, but when he looked in the mirror he flipped out. I kind of expected it and actually besides telling me he wasn't going to leave the house for two weeks he did ok. He looks handsome, of course he is my son, but he has the most beautiful big green eyes and now that his hair is all gone you can see them. Even Lucy told him he looked great that says alot coming from the fashion queen. Hes funny too because before he left the house this morning he told me everyone was going to laugh at him.....although I thought about who those people might be, and they all have the same hair do as Kya. In fact he was the only one in his class that had long hair.
Sorry no photo....it was sort of late last night

Isn't it Fun Sometimes To Be a Girl!

2009-03-05T10:41:00.003-10:00

Well I get easily bored looking in the mirror..........and my hair color has been the same for quite some time. So I did it, I put a red color on my hair. There is a on going joke about Jeremy always really wanting to marry a red head. He went to Russia on his mission and brought back three beautiful hand painted porcelain dolls. They all had different color yarn for hair (red, yellow, brown) The red one he wanted to give to his future wife. You could probably imagine my feelings on this. Why the heck would I want a doll that represented something he didn't have (a red headed wife). I can be a little harsh sometimes, needless to say I do not have the red head in my house. Yesterday I surprised him when he came home from work. He liked it, although he knows it's not permanent either......I'm not that dumb!
Have a great day.........and never be afraid to have a bit of fun!

One Rule Broken, One Tough Lesson Learned

2009-03-02T21:56:00.003-10:00

So Bakugon is a big game out here. Im not sure if it is on the mainland, although as for Hawaii it's a little too crazy. Well Jeremy is watchful of Kya and his collection and has made some rules to protect his it. One of those rules is do not take them out to the parks unless Jeremy goes with him. Today Kya wanted to play with the neighbor boy Isiah who is 5. Jeremy said no, and of course I thought he would just stay in the yard, so I said to Jeremy "Why not, what's the point of having them if you can't play with them". So Jeremy changed his mind and said "ok although don't take them to the park". Unfortunately Kya must have a bad memory, because that was where he went and his brand new Bakugon he just got in the mail today was missing from his box when he came home. Of course Lucy delievered the news and we began the investigation. Jeremy even went outside and started questioning other kids. Poor Kya was devastated....I think he finially realized that mom and dad don't just make rules because we can, but to help protect him emotionally and physically.

Skipper

2009-03-01T21:35:00.004-10:00

Well today Jeremy tried to take some pictures of our little skipper. They aren't the best........but really how could a dog that small take a bad picture. Today the neighbor girl was holding him and accidently dropped the poor little guy right on his head. It really scared us, him too Im sure. So needless to say no more holding the puppy by the kids friends.;)

Thank you

2009-02-28T21:07:00.002-10:00

Im not sure how to respond back to comments when you all leave them. Although, I figured I would just write a note to everyone. It means so much to read comments that contain love and support. Thankyou. Today we had a pretty good day. As some of you know I use to have laser hair done....then the company I went to went bankrupt and all of our money was lost not to mention I was half done ;) So I bought a Tria, it came today. Jeremy is a great tech and it was so nice to get that going again. We
enjoyed staying around the house. Tomorrow I will have to post some pictures of our new edition. His name is "skipper", he is a very itty bitty long hair chihuahua. At 10 weeks old he weighs in at a whopping 1lb. All black except for the little white chest hair. Collai...has accepted him and is really cute with him. She might be trying to play a little too rough at times, but she makes up for that by cleaning his eyeballs (a very chihuahua affectinate gesture). Hes a really good puppy.....never has had a accident in the house, sleeps through the night, and seems to really love everyone. Like I said I will get some photos up tomorrow. In away he is theraputic for me, both Jeremy and I are suckers for dogs especially puppies. He brings me joy and right now his joy is greeted with open arms.
He went to sleep with Kya tonight, although to avoid any mishaps (falling from the bed, or being accidently rolled on top of) we took him out.
Right now he and Collai are both chewing on the same bone in their crate. toooo cute
good night

How to Welcome back an old Demon

2009-02-27T21:21:00.001-10:00

I know that titles sounds sort of weird. Although that is what I feel like I'm going through. My demon in life is my anxiety and depression. I've had to start taking medication about 4 1/2 years ago to deal with it. In these same years I was almost certain we would not have more children so I wasn't worried about the medication or birth control. Although then we both decided that maybe now we are ready to have more. It felt good at the time.... I told my doctor, she removed my birth control and then told me that I must come off the meds. I was pretty confident that this wasn't going to be hard since I never took anything with the other two. Anyways, getting off these meds is easier said then done. I haven't given up yet, it's too early. Although I can feel my demon trying to regrow in my brain. Today I was soooo tired, even though I had plenty of sleep, irritable to the extreme, and I had my first crying spell in I don't even know how long ago since the last one. I don't want to feel this way at all and I wonder when and if it will end soon. Jeremy is so understanding and never walks away from me when I'm falling apart. He just wants me to be happy. I don't want to let him down in any way.I did end up taking some more medication today so that I would stop crying and panicking over nothing. I feel alot better as I lay in my bed ready to call it a day.
I don't express myself much in my blog, but I find it therapeutic. I have wonderful people in my life who love me and can help support me, for that I feel comfortable sharing these kind of embarrassing and humbling experience.
I love you all...good night

Catch Up Time

2009-02-22T20:25:00.007-10:00

........

Ok no slide show.....although I wanted to post some things that we have been up to over here in Hawaii. First, Kya and Lucy painting together. I love to listen to their conversations when they are working on something. I only wish Kya could be more creative.....he totally copied Lucy.....probably to show her that he could do a better job (unfortunately he would do that)

When any of you ever come to visit you can meet cute little creatures like this one. Oh and I'm not talking just about Lucy.....look closely you will see the humongous moth on the box in the garage

We finally got to go out to the Ko'Olina Lagoons. It was beautiful.......we got there kind of late in the afternoon so there was a little more wind and less heat then we would have liked. But it was relaxing, Lucy could not go in the water because she had too many scraps on her legs and the salt was making them sting. Then she was playing in the sand and my chair blew over and hit her in the head. Her and I always joke, that if there was an accident and Lucy was around it was bound to find her. I asked the kids each to tell me three things about the beach that they loved. They actually had many more then three things which made me happy that they loved to be at the water as much as we do. The water at this resort is so clear....really nice.

Valentine Day coupons

2009-02-14T08:06:00.002-10:00

So I got a card from Jeremy with some coupons. They can be redeemed for different things. It was really cute......although he added a surprise coupon on the back .....
this is what it said

"I know we have 2 kids, one 5 and one 7, but you can redeem this for one more from heaven. We made two cute ones, Lucy and her brother, let's do this together and give birth to another"

I have been talking about having another one with Jeremy for about a year. But the timing has been a big factor for us. I think we are in a good place now, and he finially feels the same. Oh I thought the poem was awesome, he wrote that on the fly pretty good Jer.

Well a few things have to happen first but the ball will get rolling soon

lova ya all

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T11:55:00.004-10:00

I thought it was about time to put together some pictures from the last little while. I really do love my family and friends that I have been given. Not only the ones that live under the same roof or in the same vicinity as me but the ones afar as well. I miss everyone, sometimes it's difficult when you want to share milestones especially from the children yet the one's you love most aren't close enough to be with you. I think that is why I love to blog every now and then. It's such a good time to catch up.......for some reason I don't talk to everyone as often as we use too. I think it's just busyness that stops that from happening. So this is me sharing and catching up with everyone!
My wonderful husband has started a fun tradition I like to call it. He takes the children every couple of months to the zoo to do volunteer work. After they are done with their service they get to enjoy the zoo. This month they picked up garbage that was on the outside of the zoo perimeter. They really loved going and are starting to understand the difference their actions can make.
I have been thinking alot about my children lately. I love them tremdously even though I can't always figure out what planet they are on. They make me laugh and bring so much joy and certainly anything but boredom to our household. They love Jesus and have really embrassed him and the teachings. For instance Kya praying the other night for his teacher to get her voice back so she can talk again, and praying the little boy next door might find his bike that was stolen. It makes me smile inside knowing these prayers are his own and come from his heart. Lucy is growing in her own way as well. She knows I would like to have another baby, and tells me that only Jesus can bring me another baby but since I have her still then it won't happen.
Well I think this turned more into a "here's what's on my mind today" then a time table about what's been going on.
Enjoy the slide show. we love you all!

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A Time For Change

2009-02-08T14:57:00.004-10:00

Well there is always that time I think every girl feels it is time to change the "do". It didn't exactly turn out what I had in mind, although it's done. I was just going to let it grow long while we were here in Hawaii....but it just sometimes takes way too long to do. So I went and had 5-6" cut off. The funny part is only one person has noticed besides Jeremy and the kids. (thanks Briana)
Makes me wonder if cutting it was the wrong thing to do. But whats done is done now. Tell me what you think! OH but i have exciting news, the same day my hair was cut off I was able to buy a size 8 jeans. That was a nice feeling. Maybe the walking is paying off. Even Collai has benefited from all the walks.

Lovely frames

2009-02-02T12:01:00.001-10:00

Here are those pictures just for you mom.

Apology

2009-01-28T12:25:00.003-10:00

I need to apoligize for my last song choice. I didn't realize it had bad lanuage in it. I need to pay closer attention to that (thanks mom)
Here is another nice song.....with no yucky words.

Lets Go Ride A Bike

2009-01-25T21:48:00.003-10:00

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I have been meaning to get on here for a couple of days....but time just isn't always there. Jeremy made a deal with Kya that he cannot play the WII until he has at least practiced riding his bike without training wheels everyday. Well I have excited news.....he did it. Today Sunday January 25,2009 the training wheels were off and he rode his bike. I was so excited for him, I cannot really explain what it meant to Jeremy and I to see him pedaling a bike especially with no training wheels. I did take some pictures of the other day when my wonderful husband helped the kids begin the independent journey of bike riding. It was a eventful weekend between garage sale, neighborhood gossip, bike riding oh and hurting my back at the grocery store. Im tired tonight....so I will have to write more later about the some of these events.

Another day out of school!

2009-01-19T17:03:00.003-10:00

Well friday all schools on the island were closed due to bad weather(which I didn't really see to much of). Then of course was Martin Luther King Jr. Day so no school. We took the kids to the Pearl Harbor pool to swim since the weather looked so nice today. The best part was going to be the water slide they have. Kya could hardly contain his excitement. I knew he would go down that thing at least one a hundred times. The water was really cold so we all mostly sat around and waited for the slide to open. It took like an hour and a half. Then it was time all, the kids went running to the slide including Kya. Although we made a devasting mistake, not taking off the life jacket that he was wearing. NO LIFE JACKETS on the slide. So he took it off and went back to the slide, although it was too late. He was officially labeled as a kid that cannot swim so the Lifeguard told him he could not go on the slide. Poor Kya he was so sad! Then the other lifeguard said he could take a 25yard swim test. 25 YARDS....that is alot for a 7 year old. I was proud of Kya he got in and he swam his hardest for as long as he could. At least over 12 yards till he couldn't hold his head up above the water anymore. The Life guard broke his heart when she said "Im just going to say No". I couldn't believe it he had swam more then enough distance to handle the slide drop off to the ladder. I really don't even think half the kids going down the slide could swim 25 yards. We held our cool as our son cried with dissappointment. Then we decided once Kya started talking about grabbing the birds and throwing them into the pool we should leave.

Gary, is that really you?

2009-01-11T19:45:00.003-10:00

Here is what we found in our backyard Saturday.....oh what cute little creatures live in Hawaii with us. Im not sure if you can tell just how big he is.....although it was by far the biggest snail I have ever seen. The kids loved him and even were so nice to make it a bed in the grass to slither away too. Too bad I didn't take a picture of the smashed dead gecko the cat brought in. She laid it right next to my head for me to see when I woke up! Gross!

Not Really, Just Like The Beat

2009-01-08T08:33:00.005-10:00

I love this song, I thought it would be perfect to play while I introduced my new ride. Those that know us well can understand why we are so excited. It's an immaculate 1987 Astro Van............here are some pictures. We used the insurance money from the other van that was totaled to buy it. It is in such nice shape, there are a few quirks about it, really to be expected with it's age. Although it can fit 8 people rather comfortabley and it has AC, oh and only 40,000 miles on it. That would explain the condition...........no one hardly used it.

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Now this is a good way to start the New Year!

2009-01-01T18:59:00.006-10:00

Collai and Ruby are sleeping next to each other on the couch at their own will.
too cute. I hope everyone had a safe new year. We couldn't be any safer then our own beds. The fireworks were constant here in Hawaii.....I mean constant. Not that I mind, it doesn't bother me at all that people celebrate. Jeremy, Kya and I have all been battling colds so we cut the night short....well 11:00pm. It was quiet in Hawaii today, we did some errands and there was no one out. I forgot to mention my baby turning five on Saturday. I didn't have anything planned (surprise) but my cute daughter took it upon herself to plan a party for 3 o'clock that day. How could I say no, I made a not so good cheesecake (per her request), wrapped that gifts added a couple of friends wola! a party is born. She loved it.

Merry Christmas..now on to the next thing

2008-12-26T08:50:00.005-10:00

Well December can be quite an adventure for us, only because both kids have their birthdays way to close to Christmas. Kya had a nice birthday the day I came home from California with Collai. I made him a Chocolate Cherry Coke cake, he ate the cherry off the top and made a wish since mommy forgot the candle. It was a nice intimate night, just how we like it. Since then we have been enjoying our guests too. Jeremy's sister Keri and her boyfriend Jeff. They are really Hawaiian enthusiast's and love just being in the nice weather, relaxing on the beach, and scuba diving. The kids are enjoying not going to school and they are just wanting to play at home all day long. We also found out first centipede.........digusting little creatures and after we admired it's grossness we killed it with raid so it wouldn't bite anyone. Because I have had that experience before and it hurt.
Then we had Christmas morning...........it seemed a little chaotic but the kids were very excited to open presents. Later Jeremy went to the beach with his sister and boyfriend. I stayed home so the kids could play with toys and friends. I also took the Christmas stuff down pretty much because I had nothing else to do for three + hours. Besides we have to get ready for my baby turning five tomorrow. Yikes!
Enjoy the pictures!

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A Bitter Sweet Day

2008-12-22T21:18:00.003-10:00

I want to tell my sister that Im so thankful for taking such wonderful care of our dogs for the past four months. Dogs are such funny little creatures that tug on all kinds of emotions. Today we had to say goodbye to Koda, indeed not a easy task. It's hard to talk about, although Amy and I are both sure that it was the best thing to do. The lady who adopted him, seems to be willing to open up her mind and heart to understand his corky personanlity. Collai on the other hand has adjusted well to Hawaii. I never want to let her go she is my little sweetie. Again, thank you again to the Collins family. you rock

A Wonderful Time of The Year

2008-12-07T19:20:00.010-10:00

I really do love this time of year. Christmas is my very favorite followed closely by 4Th of July. Our military community has embraced the holiday with lights everywhere. It's really nice to be in a neighborhood that does that. I made a batch of sugar cookies, although I have a love affair with eggnog, so I changed out some ingredients to satisfy my eggnog desires. It turned out really well, the cookies are great. But eggnog is really only one reason why I love this time of year. There is truly a spirit of the Savior that floods every city in the world, as people do what the Savior always did, Love, give and give some more. Charity is the true love of Christ and when we give it radiates and grows. So many people give in so many ways this time of year. Whether its treats to the neighbors, or cards to friends and family to say Merry Christmas, volunteering to help those less fortunate, and every ones favorite "giving gifts". Though this time has a special feeling in the air because of all love going around. Some do not feel it, they are lonely and for what ever reason they have heavy hearts. My prayers go out to them to find peace within. love to all- Oh and here is some pictures from our Christmas's long long ago. Enjoy

Tom The Turkey was Terrific

2008-11-28T21:58:00.002-10:00

Well I did it.....I prepared my first real Thanksgiving dinner. I don't think it was exactly how I imagined. I would have liked to have had some family there to partake as well. But despite that the turkey cooked wonderfully and the yams were great. Lucy (no surprise) only ate olives. Kya was in love with the food that was cute. Our friend Melissa joined us for dinner so that was nice to have someone else to share dinner with.
Okay that was that....just when I was so proud of myself. We went to a friends house for another Thanksgiving dinner tonight. She was an amazing cook....yes she blew me out of the water. Her yams consisted of three different colored yams that I didn't even know existed, and they were divine. So was everything else. The one thing that made me still feel good in a weird way was that Lucy didn't eat any of her dinner either. So I had something goind for me. It was a nice evening eating and getting to know new friends better.
Well my body wants me to shut down now...ta ta

I thought it was a great movie

2008-11-21T19:37:00.002-10:00

Well today a friend of ours ask me to go see Twilight with her. I knew nothing about this movie, just that it really had a bunch of hype everywhere...TV, radio etc. But I have to say it was really well done and very intriguing. I wish Jeremy could have seen it too because he would have really liked it. It was a great love story and Iam completely hooked, now whether or not I actually read the books is one thing. I can't remember the last time I read a book (other then maybe the Book of Mormon). But I'm definitely going to see the next movie. So go see it everyone...it was good. Now I can't wait till "Australia" comes out next week.

Why can't they always be this sweet!

2008-11-12T10:41:00.006-10:00

I love my children, but man sometimes they really wear me out. I don't understand....it's not like there are ten of them. Anyways, on Sunday night we like to walk down to the waters edge by our house and enjoy the peacefulness. I was able to take some fun picture of the kids too.

We also found some clue treasures that washed up on the beach....of course unfortunately none of it was going to make us rich. But Kya was excited to find a coconut and a few other really neat shells that we didn't see while we were in Monterey.

Well Wishes From Grassy

2008-11-05T20:13:00.003-10:00

I had to show everyone this cute moment in our house. Of course we see Geckos running around alot here. Although they usually are so fast there is no way anyone can catch them. But apparently the little tiny ones don't move as fast. Kya was able to grab it easily, then Lucy had a turn and named it "Grassy". They wanted to keep it, although I just couldn't do that he was so cute so we let him go in the backyard.
The pictures aren't the best but you can still see the little guy.
I suppose we might have a special place for geckos in our hearts. Mine and Lucy's middle name "Cecile" means lizard.

Talk about being thrown off course

2008-11-03T20:36:00.002-10:00

Okay, so we had a great fun trip to California and now we are back home trying to get back in the swing of things. I still feel unorganized here at the house. Im still trying to figure out what should go where so that I dont have to look at clutter everyday. So by now you are probably wondering where Im going with all this. Well I needed to go do some errands today around 12:15.....drove right by the elementary school and thought "hummm weird that the school bus if there so early". But I just continued on my way. Then about an hour later I returned home and as I was driving into my court I saw Lucy. She was sitting in the neighbors garage playing with the other kids. Then I saw Kya...I was way confused. They weren't suppose to be home until 2:30. Well long story short, it was a half day and they went home and found I wasn't there. I guess they hung out there for a little bit then decided to go to our neighbors house. I was so thankful to her for taking care of them for me. I felt horrible and a little stupid that I didn't know they had a half day. (would explain the bus I saw early at the school)
So tonight I got organized even more, so that these retarded things don't happen again. We are also going to go over a telephone lesson tomorrow so the kids can call me when this happens.

The First Official Trip Back Home

2008-10-31T09:25:00.002-10:00

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Well I wasnt sure how long I would wait till we ventured back to California for a visit. Although we went to the AMC terminal and actually was able to get a flight on a medivac military plane. It was actually a great trip on the plane we had a lot of things to watch, as the crew was doing training routines. Even a crash landing event. The kids thought it was pretty cool, and I think they even liked the ear plugs....well I know Lucy did. Kya insisted that it wasn't loud and he didn't need them.
We went to Auntie Amy's house to discover that Collai was in heat and Koda could care less that we were there, she was all he wanted. We could'nt allow anything to happen between them, so we ended up boarding Koda (poor guy). But other then that event, it was so fun to be with all of them in Yuba City again. It was beautiful weather....very crisp fall air that felt so good on my skin. All the trees were changing as well. We were trying to make a choice between taking the kids to HSM three or the pumpkin patch. I'm afraid I was a bit selfish because I really wanted to go to the patch. It was wonderful and the kids loved being together so much. I would have to also add that staying at Amy's house is exhausting.....I don't know how she takes care of kids all day and be pregnant. I included a picture in the slide show where all the kids were finially sitting down at the same time (thanks to tinkerbell).
I had some unexpected difficulities with flying back home. I really did want to spend Halloween in Hawaii with Jeremy. So mom was so nice to help us do that. We went to Fairfield and were able to visit Auntie Stacey, Kieanna, and Jenae. They have a nice new home and Kya and Lucy had a blast with their cousins. They also thought it was cool to sleep in Mema's living room.
We made it back home and were able to go to our church and enjoy a Trunk or Treat. Although we didn't use our trunks do to rain. Jeremy wore my favorite custume on him, which is a snow beanie with hair attached. It fooled alot of people in the ward. Some even thought he was my brother ( like kind of grossed me out ). The missionaries looked pretty excited too, until they found out it was actually Jeremy. They had some really fun games for the kids, Lucy was a belly dancer and Kya was Indiana Jones. Check out some of the treats I found in their candy bags, only in Hawaii.

I can't believe the "Shooka van" is gone

2008-10-18T20:00:00.003-10:00

The insurance company is calling the van a total loss because the damage done exceeds the worth of the vechicle. This van was bought brand new in 2000 by Amy and Bryan. They have so many memories in this car.......so many children came home from the hospital in this van, rode trips taken for birthdays, holidays and graduations. It hit a few bumps in the mechanical department but it was strong and pulled through. I don't know why I call the van Shooka, besides the fact it looks kind of like a killer whale. Amy and Bryan sold this van to us over two years ago. And it was such a blessing for us, unfortunatly we never were able to pay them in full before transmission went out. But I will pay you back.......I promise. We always felt that we needed to keep it going....so we did all necessary repairs to do so. I feel horrible that the legacy of Shooka is over. And yes it's a just a van.......but to me everything that passes in my life deserves a proper eulogy. Goodnight

A Little Mainland sick

2008-10-10T11:31:00.002-10:00

I haven't figured out why in a place so beautiful I can feel so lost. I watch my children going through the same thing. I see my daughter go outside and stand right in front of a group of new faces and be completely ignored. I watch her come back home with tears welling in her eyes. Everything is so different then what she is use to. I can tell she misses her nerdy little friends that she made in Monterey. It can break my heart because I want it to be different for her. Then I feel like it is my fault. What kind of mom am I....I read other blogs and sometimes I just feel worse about my mothering. Im not sure what to change....my first step will be trying to get back to church. It sounds easy but it's really not.
Kya is adjusting too, luckily for him he can read and loves video games so that is his escape. I think Lucy's escape from loneliness is her new little art station that we made for her. She loves it. Always creating, of course everything is very abstract....but sweet all the same............
I can't wait for tomorrow because we get to explore the island and forget about any problems for a moment, plus the air conditioner is broken, even more reason to get out of here.

Everything but the Dogs

2008-10-03T21:19:00.002-10:00

Today is the day that we received the rest of our household goods. I think because I have not completely accepted the fact that this is now home.....I didn't have a whole lot of excitement. I was use to living with the basics and rotating through the same five shirts. Then Bamm all of a sudden I have a house full of stuff. Now some of it is important to me, although most of it just sits around and collects dust. Ok enough about that, highlights of today was that really nothing was broken just a few minor things. The other thing was the hamburger that i found in one of Lucy's toy boxes.....yuck. We really miss the dogs....it's interesting to unpack and find their hair on things or toys they love. I can't wait to have them join us here. I'm so thankful Amy and Bryan are taking such amazing care of them for us. We owe you guys!
Alright it was a long day time to hit the hay!

Do you ever feel like your dreaming?

2008-09-29T19:59:00.003-10:00

I have very much felt like I have been dreaming since we arrived in Hawaii. Im not exactly sure why or what it is that makes me feel like this. I like it here, Im not sad that Im here although I do miss everyone and the thought that I can't just get in the car and drive to visit anyone is hard for me. So it's been a month.. that we arrived here on the island. Slowly but surely we are trying to rebuild our daily routine. It will really help when we get our furniture and other personnal belongings this Friday. I was so happy today when we pick up our van from the ship yard, it was like seeing an old friend. It felt good driving it and being able to put on High school musical for Lucy. I think I might have woke up from a dream for a minute.
Then all I remember next is Jeremy sayng " I can't believe that just happened!",
I looked in the rear veiw mirror and said "Oh my gosh did we just get hit?" Jeremy said "UH Yeah". All I saw was the broken glass. I was driving on the hignway in the commute traffic and at the time of impact I was pretty much stopped. I think I suffered a pretty good case of wip flash.....judging by the conversation. Luckily besides high blood pressure and a little pain in our necks we are all fine. Maybe the next time I wake up from my dream it wont be so dramatic.

The man that hit us was in his work truck, I feel bad for him he probably will loose his job. With the way the economy is, I can't imagine what he is going through tonight.

Some Fun at Kaneohe Bay

2008-09-28T17:20:00.002-10:00

Well here is my first official slide show in Hawaii. There is a picture of our new house too, plus the car we are trying to buy still. Today we went to the Marine Base with some people Jeremy knew from Monterey. It was fun, I would have to say the the waves were a little bigger then what I like (although Im a ocean wimp). Jeremy was loving it, he was catching some great waves that were big and carried him for a long time. Lucy actually played in the waves for the first time, she loved it and it was fun to watch. I love watching the kids just laugh and play in the water. Kya actually will lay down and let the waves throw him all around. We were all such sandy messes when we left there to go home but it was worth it.

Wow this was a long day for me

2008-09-23T20:28:00.003-10:00

The only reason it was really a long day was because I didn't have anything to do. We still dont have our belongings with us, which really makes it difficult to keep yourself busy. Yesterday I did what chores I could find to do....laundry, dishes, a little vacuming, bathrooms. So that left pretty much nothing for me to do today. Needless to say I was excited to go to the bus stop at 2:10pm to get the kids. Although I see the bus coming and then my phone rings, and the school calls to tell me that Lucy has missed the bus again. Sure enough the bus pulls up and I see Kya in there mouthing the words " Mommy the bus left without Lucy again ". He is such an observant brother. It turns out that the sister of Lucy's bus buddy was late picking them up from the class room.
I have know attempted to talk to Kya and see if he can take the responsibility of picking up Lucy and going to the bus together. We will be experimenting with this tomorrow. I dont understand why Lucy can't say something like .........hey teacher I know where the bus is can I go. She can be quite perplexing child.

It's About Time To Write

2008-09-22T08:54:00.000-10:00

I spend everyday on the Internet reading blogs from others. I read stories that impress me so much and in many ways, keep my emotions in check. Hawaii is suppose to be a breath of fresh air and new start. Those who are close to us know that we have really struggled to try to keep afloat financially. We foreclosed on our two houses in Colorado this summer.......but it is far from over. The debts are too much for us to bear and we see nasty alternatives to rectify them. Where is the manual on life that you can open up and tells you what exactly you should do next so we dont have to make what seems like mistake number 100. I know our faith can help us, so right now I try to say as intune with my inner self to seek guidance.
This is where all those other blogs come in......my trials seem much less painful to those I have read about. A friend lost her mother (something too trerribly painful to imagine), another young mom lost two legs, an arm and went blind while giving birth, and another young mom my age is in critical condition suffering burns 80% of her body, and another young mother who surprisingly is pregnant with her fifth child despite the stress of money and the financial responsibility of having children (how do you grow to love something that you didnt expect to happen).
Perhaps that is the biggest lesson of all............how do we learn to love or at least deal with what we dont expect to happen.
Maybe its true what they say in the church, burdens are easier to deal with when you let the savior share them with you. His light and love has saved me out of some pretty dark moments in my life. So that is my pledge to myself in Hawaii. The new fresh start will have nothing to do with money (like I thought it would) rather it will be a much closer relationship with the Savior. Let the courts take what they want, they can never take the greatest gift of all which is my testimony and love for my savior, family and close friends.

Our Last Few Days in Monterey

2008-08-24T05:19:00.000-10:00

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Yes, the movers will be here tomorrow to start packing. And for the most part I think we are ready. We have been trying to keep ourselves busy and not stressed out. Jeremy past all of his tests with great scores and will be speaking at his graduation. He will also be up for the prestigious commandant's award. I'm very proud of him. He also left his mark here by starting up a safe driving program for people who drink a little too much and need rides. That has been going for about two months, and since that time there has been no drunk driving incidents for the Navy.
We also went to Laguna Seca raceway with Jeremy's Grandmother and watched some old fashion cars race(1940's-1950's). Then we had dinner at a famous seafood restaurant in Moss Landing. When we walked on the beach there we could see why it was called Moss Landing.
My cute daughter is so in love with the puppy that we had to bring it to preschool. The children were so happy. And Lucy was like a proud mama, on the way home her eyes welled up with tears and told me that she didn't want to move because then she would have to say goodbye to the puppy. But I told her that she would just have to say "see you later" not "goodbye". Auntie Amy is keeping all the puppy and will love it all the same.
This past week we also drove to Oakland and wished our car bon voyage, then we took the kids to the Oakland Temple. They were really impressed. We even accidentally went out the emergency door at the visitors center and set the alarm off. I wanted to stay and make sure everything was going to be ok, but Jeremy said we should make a run for it.......well not run but just go. Then we went to the mausoleum where my deceased Grandparents and Late Uncle are resting. I think the kids were creeped out by it all. Although I was filled with a flood of memories from when I was kid. It was a huge place, my mom was on the phone guiding us through what seem to be a maze. She did a great job. Although I was glad I finially made it there, I also felt a little guilty that it's been so long since I was there.
Our last final event of that day was Jeremy's class graduation party. So on our way home we stopped by that. Well I think this is long enough. I feel time is short for me these days, but I had a chance this morning to catch up.

Chance Two Days Old

2008-08-15T14:37:00.001-10:00

A Fun Night at The Fair

2008-08-15T06:01:00.000-10:00

Tonight was military appreciation night at the Monterey County Fair. So I forced everyone to go! We got in for free, then the unlimited ride passes which are normally $25 were on sale for $10.
So we were pretty excited about the instant savings. It was so pretty, it had to be one of the best looking fairs I have ever been. There was green grass that the rides were sitting on, and not only that it was a really big fair. They had an entire kids carnival which was completely different from the adult carnival.
The kids had a fun time riding all the rides, and they are so different. Infact they did not go on a single ride together, Lucy plays it safe and Kya has no fear at all. The faster the better. The highlight was when he went on the lightening ride (which is way fast) he had to go without one of us because we did not have bracelets. Although as soon as he sat in his seat a cute little brown hair girl walked right up to him and asked to sit with him. My first thought was "oh no she should be sitting on the inside so Kya doesnt smash her to death" but then again, she probably weighs more then him anyway. The pictures of the ride say it all.

There were also a ton of really cute animals to look at. I dont know why I think I have time to blog, although I have to stop for right now and take care of business YUCK

Mr Puppy has finially come

2008-08-13T09:08:00.000-10:00

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We call him "Chancey" (short for chance). We were never intentially trying to get Collai pregnant, although there was always a chance it would happen when she was so young. This morning at 5:00am her water broke in our bed of course....
She labored quietly for about an hour then got up all of a sudden like she was going to poop and out came some little legs. Yes it was breech! I was so afraid right then expecting the worse. Although she managed to push him out then she left him lying there still attached. Jeremy had to pull the placenta out, and then about a half hour later she finially cleaned up the baby and fed it. But she had me worried for a moment. Right now they are doing great, we are all adjusting to the new guy being here. Im just so thankful it's alive, healthy and that it came today and not right when the movers come.

Momma always wins!

2008-08-12T18:41:00.000-10:00

Well last night I was trying to put my slide shoe on the blog, and I was having troubles with my music player (like always). This time I thought I would ask Jeremy to help me, although he just ended up deleting my template completely. So tonight I was just trying to find something that I liked. I'm not sure I really like the one I chose....just bare with the indecisiveness.
So my biggest event of the day went almost exactly how I was hoping it would'nt go but it did! I had to take Lucy and Kya to the lab to get blood drawn. You would think Kya with his anxiety disorder that he would be a wreck. Oh no, he did great....a little nervous although had it under control. Lucy on the other hand went into fit mode before she has to go to the room. She ran behind the lobby chairs and just started to cry, shout at me, and scream how she was not going anywhere but home. I was really frustrated, and Im a very stubborn person, Lucy was not going to win this fight. So ten minutes of brivery was failing I had one more thing that popped in my mind to do. I looked at the nurse and told her to get ready in the room. Then I told Lucy "that's it, we are going home." She quickly came out from behind the chairs and I grabbed her. I told her that I wanted to walk around the corner and look at something. I had her trust......so I started to walk away from the lab, then turned quickly around carrying her back into the lab room. Lucy was getting upset, so I told her that I wanted to talk to the nurse about her hair color! (I know it was random, but it was the first thing that came to my mind). I casually started to talk to the nurse about her hair then sat down on the table wrapped my leg around her legs.......and they did what they needed. She was screaming but at least we got it done and when she needs to get into school, she can! I told her later that I was sorry for lying to her, and she told me that it was ok. Like I always tell Kya, I told her I will always win!

A Trip to Lake Solano......sort of

2008-08-11T12:01:00.000-10:00

Well we had a great time taking a spontaneous trip to Fairfield this weekend. The plan was to go to Lake Solano to have a nice picnic and just let the kids all romp around together. Stacey did a awesome job preparing the whole food portion.....oh and Amy brought brownies. And as for me and my family we did a great job at basically spoiling the initial plans. We had to bring our dogs because Collai is due to have her puppy any day. We drove the 20 minute winding rode all the way to the lake......to get there and find out that there are no dogs aloud. I'm not sure why nothing ever goes right for Jeremy and I ...........but I felt bad because we ended up just going to a random park in Vacaville. But the park was beautiful.....and the kids did have fun together, the dogs did too. The slide show tells the rest of the story. I will get that soon. Dont worry Stacey I didnt put the pictures of you bending over picking up all the napkins that were blowing off the picnic table.

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Well they went back to school today

2008-08-04T06:02:00.000-10:00

Right now Im sitting at home, wondering how the kids are both doing at school. It's weird to drop them off and then walk away, hoping they will be ok. Kya was happy this morning and really excited to get to class. He actually got to sit assigned right next to a girl he knows from his kindergarten class. Although she is the most busiest little girl ever, I think it made him feel good to have a familiar face next him. He was already making friends when I went to say goodbye. I tried to kiss him and tell him that he had toothpaste on his face....but he was like get away. Lucy seemed excited more nervous....although she was already jumping back into routine. She hit the paint area painted a quick masterpiece then headed off to the table for breakfast when I left. I will miss them a little bit today.....tomorrow will be better for me. :)

Getting ready for the Puppies step one

2008-07-31T17:52:00.000-10:00

I just thought I would blog this very important mile stone for Collai..... She is pregnant and should be having puppies in the next couple of weeks. As most of you know we are moving in about 4 weeks, so this is just great timing. Although I feel everything happens for a reason. I think it will be really neat for the whole family to have a part with this puppy experience. Koda and Collai will not be leaving to Hawaii at the same time as us because we cannot see putting them in Quarintine for 3 months...not to mention it cost over 2 thousand dollars. So our wonderful family is making a joint sacrifice and take care of not only Koda and Collai but her puppies as well. So absolutely wonderful. Anyways, I wont write to much about this. But her are some pictures of her in her welping box (she seems to like it) Lucy gave her one of her pillows and blanket (shes very nuturing). I took a picture of her belly....she looks really huge in the picture.

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Last week of summer break

2008-07-29T05:11:00.000-10:00

Well I can't believe it's the last week before school starts. I have so many thoughts and feelings in my head it's crazy. Im excited for the kids to go back to school, I will miss them a little. Although my days will be filled with packing and getting ready to move once again. My own blog page makes my choke up with emotion. I have loved my life the last couple years being so close to my family and making new beautiful memories. Hawaii is a nice place to get to live for a time, but it cannot completely fill the whole in my heart that comes after I leave the mainland. That is why I hope everyone will come to visit us!
Anyways, everyday is filled with something new that sometimes seems to want to try and bring me down. But I try not to let it. Example.....my left hip is out, I lost my wedding ring, yesterday Lucy scared the day lights out of me choking on a piece of hard candy, Kya is experiencing alot of anxiety right now and completely exhausts me with his energy. This is making it very diffucult to get things done, taking him any where is almost impossible. Yesterday I had to go to DMV (that alone sounds yucky) but I Kya couldn't handle being there at all. I waited about a half hour with my number but then I was forced to leave. I just hope school is a different experience for him....(but I would be lieing if I said I wasnt worried about it)
On a lighter note, I still wake up everyday and start fresh. Dwelling on yesterday does me no good. Im trying to embrace all the good here in Monterey before we leave. Well I vented I feel better, now i must get ready for today!
love you all

My little rock star

2008-07-21T05:28:00.000-10:00

I had my guitar out yesterday, and that always seems to spark some new ideas for the kids. So here it is Lucy being a rock star in the back yard. Check out the mic! She did have chairs set up for the audience on the other side....which were filled with fluffy friends. Too Sweet

My kids are growing so fast

2008-07-19T13:12:00.000-10:00

This past week I decided to go and see everyone up north. Of course I missed Stacey and the girls, although we did see Mema and Amy's family. While we were in Yuba City Amy's friend Lindsey was so nice to take some pictures of Kya and Lucy for me. She does such a great job, I have always loved the photos she has taken of the Collins Clan. I wish I could discribe the atmosphere upon which these pictures were taken, then her talent of photography would be worth a million dollars. Another words she does a great job. Enjoy the p

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A Fool's Trip For The Fourth of July

2008-07-07T20:05:00.000-10:00

Ok, so why am I calling it that. It's because I tried to plan a vacation to Lake Tahoe in hopes to see one of the best Fire works show west of the Mississippi. But I think it flopped, next time I will leave the planning to the travel agent. I know it's difficult to plan a trip to a place you have not been too before (or at least alone) but I really wanted to try. Despite all the crazy obstacles that seemed to cross our paths we did make some fun memories of our own. Jeremy's grandma joined us and really seemed to be a trooper, she never complained and just enjoyed being with us. We love her so much and are glad she came with us. We stayed in a nice condo in Incline Village, and really despite the people stomping upstairs it was comfortable. The kids loved it and probably wished we could have spent more time in it. I love this holiday, and no matter what happens I always catch me tearing up during the fireworks. I can't put it into words why I do, I just do.

Gilroy Gardens!

2008-06-29T17:53:00.000-10:00

We found out that Gilroy Gardens is letting active duty military in for free, and the rest of the family half off. We decided to take advantage of the discount, and the fact we both had the day off to go. It's an interesting place, basically a amusement park designed for children. The weather was nice, and there was no crowd which was even better. The kids got to ride on merry-go-rounds, a ferris wheel, and they even went on their first real roller coaster. Im not sure that was the best idea for the day. I didnt think it would be scarey considering everything was designed for kids! Lucy was barely tall enough to ride. But we did it, we rode in the front cart of the coaster. It was good for the first thirty seconds. Then we went over the first peak and they speed picked up pretty good. I turned around to see how Lucy was and she freaked me out. She was complerely purple.....like she was having a heart attack. Kya was loving it, although Lucy was just screaming she couldnt breathe. I think she could breathe, although she might have that wind taken out her feeling. Either that or she really did have a heart attack. We survived.....although she was a mess after we got off. I felt so bad. But then we went on some other kiddie rides, and I think she forgave me and had a good time. We didnt stay too long, because we ran out of money pretty fast. The drinks were 3.50....yikes.
This weekend for the 4th we are going to Lake Tahoe for one of the best fire work shows west of the mississippi (thats what they say)

Well we have Orders

2008-06-24T19:24:00.000-10:00

Well Jeremy came home from work today and annouced that we have received orders to Hawaii. This is somewhat of a relief to us, only because we thought it would be Japan. Since we have lived there before I feel pretty relaxed about things. It will still be a little crazy with all the changes, although exciting at the same time. I think the kids are excited about it as well. Although Lucy just isnt looking forward to being hot! Me neither, although at least we will beable to swim in the water and not freeze like in Monterey. Oh, and I do expect company now that we will only be in the middle of the ocean rather then on the other side of the world. :)

Sprinkler Fun

2008-06-23T16:18:00.000-10:00

Last week the kids and I took a quick trip to Yuba City to visit cousins. It was so hot up there, we had to turn on the sprinklers to keep cool. I brought the dogs, and even Koda surprised us how much he loved the water. Brody too, he was all about being in the middle of the sprinkler. I love visiting up there, I wish that i didnt have to work so much because I would stay longer then two days. Enjoy the fun pictures

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Kung-Fu Mama

2008-06-16T17:49:00.002-10:00

Oh and speaking of Kung Fu from a previous posting, apparently no-one including myself realized I had a little martial art strength. Today I was cooking in the kitchen and a bottle of sauce fell out of the cubbard and I went to catch it before it smashed and broke all over. But what happened was that my arm actually got caught between a coke glass cup and the bottle of sauce. I saw glass and thought the sauce broke and my efforts were a failure. Then I looked a little closer and the glass was from the coke cup, which was broken by the bone in my arm. So yes I broke the glass with the back side of my forearm. Pretty crazy! Just call me PO....

Happy Fathers Day

2008-06-16T17:49:00.001-10:00

To our Daddy, we love you so much. Thank you for playing, bathing, feeding, taking us to Kung Fu, reading to us, hugging, holding, listening and just being a awesome Daddy to us.
Kya had a little friend who asked what he gave his Dad for Father's Day. Kya responded " We didnt really give him anything, although we had a big family group hug this morning. Then later Daddy bought each of us our own box of cereal". Oh yes, what Jeremy wouldnt do for his kids. jk So what really happened was that we did have the group hug, then we took Daddy to his favorite restaurant, then we had to go to the grocery store and that is where Daddy let the kids pick out a box of cereal each. Here is a picture of Lucy spending time with daddy (yes doing a craft)

Summer is Here!

2008-06-10T05:48:00.001-10:00

Well there are good things about summer and bad. One good thing is I dont have to get up and drag children out of bed for school. We can be a little more lazier in the morning. The bad thing is that this might be our last summer being so close to family and we can't really even afford to go anywhere. This last weekend Amy and her family came to see us for our 32 birthday...... but really it was a excuse to be together again, I dont know too many people who throw big birthday bashes after 30 ;) Monterey is not a big place at all, and there isn't a whole lot to do once you have done the tourest things a few times. Although I would have to say our highlights were doing out usual 20 minute freeze at the beach for Amy and the girls, going to see Kung Fu Panda, and riding the Trolley through Monterey to go have lunch on Cannery Row. I love when they come to see us, and we miss them when they leave.

Another great thing this visit from Amy and the clan was that she was able to go to Lucy's last day of her preschool. Here is a cute picture of them two eating lunch together.

A Memorial Day Get Together

2008-05-26T16:56:00.000-10:00

Sunday we traveled to Fairfield to be with family for Memorial Day Weekend. This holiday means alot to me, I love driving around here on Fort Ord and seeing all the yellow ribbons tied around the poles. Im grateful for the military and all that they do. I really do feel it is a blessing for our family to be apart of it again. We went to my moms house and visited with my Aunt Sandy and Uncle Terry (Dad's sister). The kids love seeing their family. Then Memorial Day we actually stayed around home and it was pretty low key. I tried to go on a walk while the kids rode their bikes although ended up carrying Kya's bike most of the way because he can't peddle up the hills. Lucy on the other hand......refused any help and did the hills all by her self. Funny how my boy wimps out and my girl keeps going. :) I know someday Kya's muscles will be strong enough to ride any hill......

A cute moment to not forget

2008-05-20T18:57:00.000-10:00

I just have to write this prayer down that Kya said tonight. He said " he was thankful for our cars, and he was thankful for batteries and electricity so we can have our cars." I dont know where he gets these random thoughts, but it was definetly worth writing down.

Lets Get Serious

2008-05-18T12:14:00.001-10:00

Wow twice in one day, is very good for me. Anyways, I wanted to share a couple of new photos I have taken. Im quite proud of myself, I have been able to sit down and really read and learn my new Canon Rebel. I went to a Relief Society Homemaking night....that's probably not even what it's called anymore oops. But anyways, a lady in our ward spoke about taking pictures. It wasnt a technical lesson, probably the most inspiring thing she said was that she only had three photo albums in her whole house. All three of them were here kids mission pictures. When she captures that moment perfectly on camera it goes to her kids or on the wall. It just made me want to really understand picture taking better.....the real in and outs to try to capture that magic she talked about. Plus my wonderful hubby paid alot of money for my camera that if I dont learn how to use he might not ever forget it. So it will take time and practice but I think I can eventually get some right.

Sudden Outburst

2008-05-18T12:14:00.000-10:00

Well I can't believe it's been a month since I typed on here. Ok, sudden outburst, this phrase probably should have been Kya's middle name. His whole six years of his life have been a up hill climb. Although he continues to evolve and change every year there are things that never seem to change. Kya has been taking medicine for anxiety since he was three, although recently we have taken the steps to take him off the meds and see what lies beneath. It's too early to say exactly how he is doing although he is pretty comical to be with. Part of Anxiety is the expression of dissappointment or excitement.
Yesterday Jeremy and the kids participated in a organization that the church is involved with to feed the homeless. Jeremy told me Kya bursted out to everyone "Hey Daddy the poor people are here!" when the homeless started to arrive. Jeremy was really embrassed and did have to have a talk with Kya. Then today we were a little late for church and we missed part of the sacrament. Kya was devastated and right there in the foyer, he said "OH NO...........we missed the Sacrament, we dont get any bread" he was crying and completely upset. We did get some water, then he thought the bread was coming although I did not have the heart to tell him that we would not be getting the bread (basically to avoid another emotional breakdown). Ok, enought of all that, I just hope he can pull it together eventually because I dont want to have to medicate him again.

We started Kung FU

2008-04-18T05:28:00.000-10:00

Well I have heard that Kung Fu helps children (well any martial arts) with ADHD. Last night we took Kya and Lucy to a class for the first time. It was very fun for them. Kya is definietly made for Kung Fu, he had great stances. Although his little constant debateing is what gets him pushups. Lucy was actually doing really well, Im very protective of her, especially because she can be very sensitive. In Kung Fu when you do a move you are suppose to make a noise (usually) "I". Lucy needs to work on that part, she is really quiet. I was also impressed with a little girl in the class we has one finger and one toe on each of her hands and feet. She was amazing to watch. They will go every Tuesday and Thursday I think it's going to be a positive thing especially for Kya.

Oh I have one more thing to add to this. Im very proud of Lucy, she has not made a real friend in her preschool the whole year. Im not sure why, I think it could be lanuage barrier mixed with the fact some of the little girls are kind of mean. Although this week a new little girl came into her class, she has MS. But even though her movements look a little weird because of the MS......Lucy has been able to look past that and she is her new best friend in class. They eat together they sit together in circle time and everytime I pick her up she is playing outside with her. I dont think Lucy understands fully what is wrong with her friend, but she is nice and that is why Lucy loves her.