MOM OF 3 BOYS

Field Trip to our Local Firehouse!

2012-01-25T18:46:00.000-08:00

I accompanied Evan & his class on their field trip to the local firehouse. I was impressed at how nice and attentive the firemen were with the kids. They did a lot of explaining, role play/scenarios, they gave them a tour of the firehouse, their rooms, and the trucks, & even put the siren's on for the kids to hear! We then went to the local park that was right down the street from the firehouse where the kids ate lunch & played for a while. It was a great day & I'm glad I was there to share it with my little boy. Evan told me he wanted to be a fireman when he grows up so he can "save the day". lol

One of the firefighter's rooms

Kady-Ann

Christian

Evan trying to lift a heavy oxygen tank

Sitting in the ambulance

Kady-Ann with her mommy

At the park

Organizing Sippy Cup Lid Drawer

2012-01-18T17:00:00.001-08:00

Cleaning out Evan's sippy cup drawer that makes me cringe everytime I open it. I bought the plastic bins (that came in a 3 pack) at the Dollar Store. Posting a before & after picture. Hoping we can keep it that clean :)

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Pokemon Prize Pack!

2012-01-14T16:14:00.001-08:00

Wanted to thank Deal Wise Mommy for hosting the Pokemon Prize Pack that we were lucky enough to win! My boys loved it, thanks again!!

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Jazzy Superstar!

2011-12-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

Some pics from Evan's Jazzy Superstar Ceremony. The school chooses 2 students out of all the grades that are going well, stay on task, are polite, etc. We were so proud that Evan was chosen!

Gingerbread House

2011-12-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

Let the boys decorate their Gingerbread House this past weekend. It's one of my favorite Christmas traditions =)

Mission Pam

2011-11-20T15:19:00.001-08:00

I recently had the opportunity to participate in Mission Pam, by Smiley360. My kit included a free coupon for a can of diced tomatoes, a bottle of Pam spray butter, as well as a spatula & an awesome Pyrex glass dish. I usually use the storebrand spray butter & I always have a hard time washing it afterwards because the food really sticks to my dishware. I noticed that the food came off a lot easier when I used the Pam spray butter instead. Not only did it make the cleaning easier, but it's made with 100% Canola Oil & it has zero calories & zero fat so it is healthier than the other spray I was using as well. I would like to thank Smiley360 for the opportunity to try out this great product!

Great Savings!!

2011-11-07T08:09:00.001-08:00

Just saved $62.48 at Walgreens!! Thank goodness for great deals & coupons!!

Freebies

2011-10-14T08:22:00.001-07:00

Awesome freebies this week!! I received a Youth Tobacco Prevention Program, a Target cosmetic bag filled with awesome samples & coupons (love it)!! I got the razors, mouthwash, & flashlight at Walmart & I got overage with the coupons I used. I love saving money but nothing beats getting things for free. A big thanks to all of the companies that offer these great freebies :)

Sad

2011-09-26T19:19:00.000-07:00

Very sad week. My husband just lost one of his aunt's who is very dear to him. She has always been really sweet & she was a beautiful person inside & out. Such a great loss to the entire family :( My dad contacted me today to let me know that one of my favorite aunt's is in critical condition. I can't even write about her without crying. She has been with her husband for 50 years & they have raised a lot of children who have all grown up to be professionals. Each & everyone of them has a good heart. I always used to ask her how she did it all because in my eyes...she is perfect =) She is loving & sweet & she could always put a smile on my face!! As a little girl, I used to beg my mom to let me stay at her house because she always made me feel right at home. I am saying a lot of prayers for her recovery & begging God not to take her from us.

~trying to forget someone you love is like trying to remember someone you never even knew~

Rough Week!

2011-09-21T18:57:00.001-07:00

Recovering from last week. Not only did I have a crazy week, but I ended up being admitted to the hospital with a heart rate of 180! I'm a Virgo so I tend to stress about everything & it's starting to take a toll on my body :/ They poked my arms so much for blood that I still have some nasty looking bruises there. I'm just happy that I didn't have to spend my birthday in that place! My awesome cousin Lisa paid me a surprise visit, so I was very happy. I'm hoping to stay healthy because my guys can't function without me & this house fall to pieces in my absence.

9/11

2011-09-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

Can't believe that today is the 10th anniversary of September 11th!! I remember what a beautiful morning it was. The weather was sunny & just perfect. My oldest son was at school, my middle son was at daycare, & I was at work. I remember the girl that sat next to me always had her radio on. She tapped on my shoulder after I was done with a call & she told me that a plane had crashed into one of the Twin Towers. My response was "really??? How can u not see the Twin Towers??!!" I remember getting a bad feeling in my stomach when she gave me the news, but I kept working. A few minutes later she shouted "oh no, the other tower was hit!" & I remember saying "okay, that was definitely not an accident!" There was immediate chaos in the office. One of my good friends was hysterical because her husband was a firefighter in NYC & he was working that day. Another one was crying because she knew a father & son that worked in one of the towers. At that same moment, I got a call from the daycare to pick up my son because they were closing due to this, so I dashed out of the office without saying a word to get my son Gio who was 3 years old at the time. In the car, on the way to get Gio, I hear that the Pentagon was also attacked. At that point, I was really scared, but I tried not to panic. I lived on the 6th floor of an apartment building, so I rushed home, picked up some clothes & diapers for my son, & I drove to my parent's house who lived 10 minutes away. I couldn't believe what I was seeing on TV! People jumping out of burning buildings & the horrible collapse of the Twin Towers was on TV all day. I had to turn the TV off after awhile because it was so depressing. I remember not being able to reach any of my loved ones on the phone because the lines were all busy. I just kept thinking, "how could someone intentionally hit those buildings knowing that they were full of innocent people?" That day changed the world forever. It brought fear & uncertainty to everyone who lived through it. So many people died....the youngest victim on one of the planes was 2 years old. I had never paid any mind to the word "terrorism" prior to that day. To this day, I can't comprehend how they felt that they were pleasing God by committing such a heinous act. What kind of God condones the execution of innocent people? Not mine. Only a person filled with hate could orchestrate something so horrible. If it was such a courageous act, why didn't Bin Laden do it himself? I know why, because he was a coward. Only a coward attacks their enemy when their back is turned & when they least expect it. Even though he was captured & shot, I don't feel that justice has been served. A lot of those people had to lie under that rubble, agonizing & half alive, until they were either rescued or took their last breathe. He was shot & died instantly....an easy death! I pray that there is justice for every soul lost on that horrible day & to the cowards that use their religion as an excuse to murder & spread hate...u reap what u sow & I know that MY GOD will see to it that you spend an eternity paying for your actions!!!

~~God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, therefore we will not fear even though the earth be removed, though the mountains carried into the midst of the sea, though its waters roil and be troubled, though mountains shake with its swelling~~

Goodbye August!

2011-09-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

So glad to be done with the month of August!! I think it's the worst month of the year for me because we have so many things going on. My sister in law & her family came to visit us in early August which was awesome (very short visit, but we were very happy to see them)! My middle son's B-day was in mid-August. We had a lot of doctor/dentist appointments as well, but the most stressful part for me was dealing with the back-to-school lists the teachers sent. Every year, I notice that the lists get longer (and more ridiculous), but I have to grin & bear it. The backpacks alone cost an arm & a leg, so I have to be on the lookout for the best sales cause it is not cheap shopping for 3 boys (my oldest gets his clothes in the men's department which makes it even pricier). We usually buy the boy's clothes/shoes at JCP and we got really lucky because we bought a lot of stuff, but after using several coupons & store rewards, we only ended up spending $180! The 2 oldest boys got the same sneakers because they were at a great price. I was glad they decided on the sneakers quickly this year cause they usually take forever to decide. I'm not one of those people that loves to shop. I have my list, grab the stuff, & head for the door as quick as I can. lol Here is some of the stuff we bought. The supplies we bought at Target, Walmart, Staples, & Office Max.

The first day of school was crazy!! It's not easy keeping track of 3 different buses for 3 different schools. I tried hard not to cry as my 5 year old got on his bus for his first day of Kindergarten. He was a little emotional which made it a lot harder on me but I tried cheering him up & praising him for being such a big boy. Anyways, I'm more than happy to be done with the month of August & I'm glad that the boys already have their daily routine down packed. Now looking forward to my favorite time of the year.....fall!! Time for cooler days, pumpkin spice coffee, candy corn, and my favorite~Halloween!!

Fun In The Sun!!!

2011-08-23T20:40:00.000-07:00

Natural Cycle of the Forest

2011-08-18T17:01:00.000-07:00

We just received a series of posters from International Paper that are awesome!! It includes 5 posters & 5 handouts that explains the natural cycle of the forest. These are for children from K-6th grade. They also have a curriculum at www.iplifeoftheforest.com that correlates with the information included on the posters. In addition to this, they have a website that they share with PBS kids called ECOinvestigations. This site contains many lesson plans based on Air, Land, Freshwater, & Saltwater (the 4 primary environments). Can't wait to go over all of the cool facts with Evan =)

Toaster Oven Giveaway

2011-08-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

Check out this awesome giveaway!!! Kalorik Toaster Oven Giveaway at Shibley Smiles

21 Days of Prayer for Sons - Fall 2011

2011-08-15T23:45:00.000-07:00

I would like to share an awesome event created by Warrior Prayers-Praying the Word for Boys! The event is called "21 Days of Prayer for Sons-Fall 2011" and it will take place from Tuesday, 9/6 at 11:30pm to 9/26 at 2:30 am. This event will allow people to commit to pray for their sons (and/or grandsons), and ask God for strength and guidance in parenting/raising boys. This will help many of us get through those days when we are overwhelmed and close to giving up. For further details, please visit 21 days of Prayer for Sons!

Some Fun Family Pics

2011-08-09T00:25:00.000-07:00

Cute Capoeira Kids

2011-08-09T00:12:00.000-07:00

Adele-Someone Like You

2011-07-27T19:02:00.000-07:00

Love this song....her voice is awesome!

Awesome Capoeira Video

2011-07-27T18:53:00.001-07:00

Some Capoeira Pics

2011-07-15T23:05:00.000-07:00

Evan has been attending Capoeira classes for about a month & I absolutely love it! They also offer an adult class which I would join myself if my neck & back weren't so messed up :( Last week, the kids class was taught by Instructer Furacao from NYC. Such a great honor to meet him & he was great with the kids! If anyone is interested in finding out more details about the class, you can send me an email & I will refer you to the instructor. Here are some pics....

From the movie The Protector-love this scene!

2011-07-15T20:28:00.000-07:00

The first movie I ever saw with Capoeira & I still love it!!

2011-07-15T20:19:00.000-07:00

Only The Strong-Capoeira with Mark Decascos

Freebies & Great Deals

2011-07-07T00:02:00.000-07:00

Loving all of the awesome freebies I've been getting lately & I'm very appreciative because Lord knows that every penny counts with having 3 kids to raise. I also got a $5 off coupon emailed to me from Staples that I used to get some things I needed too. Some pics....

Some things on clearance I got from Staples with the awesome coupon they sent me!

Holiday Weekend

2011-07-06T23:41:00.000-07:00

Despite all of the craziness going on lately....we were able to have a small BBQ over the weekend (just us & my oldest son's girlfriend). My husband is an awesome cook! He made enough food to feed an army. lolll We were also able to bring the boys to see some fireworks. Despite poor hubby being exhausted from work & my horrible neck & back pain....we managed to take them because we felt guilty for not being able to take them last year. Ended up having a great night. Some pics.....

Evan is his bouncy house

Having fun jumping around outside

My oldest son with his girlfriend

Evan & Gio

Waiting for the fireworks

Some Fun in the Sun

2011-06-11T18:58:00.000-07:00

M.I.A.

2011-06-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

I've been missing in action for a bit. I've had a lot going on with my health & my 2 oldest boys are having issues with their health as well. On top of that....they had final exams & everything was literally happening at once. I have honestly been overwhelmed. We're waiting on my middle son's biopsy results to come back & I have faith that he will be okay. Trying to stay strong & breatheeee.

~~When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on~~ Franklin D. Roosevelt

When I Dream at Night

2011-06-11T18:31:00.000-07:00

Love this song <3

The Lonely by Christina Perri-love this song!!!!

2011-05-14T08:36:00.000-07:00

Love My Boys

2011-05-07T10:06:00.000-07:00

Another Mother's Day is around the corner & I can't believe that I've been a mom already for 15 years! Makes me feel a bit old. lol Seriously, I am thankful for having these 3 beautiful boys to raise & I'm lucky to have them in my lives. I think back to all of the sleepless nights, to all of the mornings that I wished for just 5 more minutes of sleep, to all of the hours I've helped them study/read/& do homework, to all of the trips to the emergency room, etc. So many hurdles we've overcome & so many wonderful memories. Now, as I look at my oldest son who is now taller & 10 times stronger than me....I wish that I could go back to when he was little. I really miss those days. Even my baby is getting old...he will be 5 in July & he will be starting Kindergarten this Fall. These children have brought so much joy to my life & I thank God for sending me 3 angels.

Weekend Getaway

2011-04-25T22:01:00.000-07:00

Glad to be home after an awesome & much needed weekend away! We tricked the boys & told them we were going to visit some family for the weekend but in reality....we had booked a hotel & surprised them by showing up to Bush Gardens!! We haven't had a vacation in ages, so it was great to get away. The hotel we stayed at was really nice & they even served a breakfast buffet that the boys definitely took advantage of. I kept telling my husband that people were going to think we didn't feed our kids cause they eat like grown men. lol The park was absolutely packed & the weather was perfect. Hubby took Evan on his first roller coaster ride & I couldn't bear to look because I thought he was too small to ride. I was surprised that he liked it and asked to get back on. The park also had a lot of animals we got to see up close (my favorite part). Anyways, despite all of the fun....I am so happy to be back because "there's no place like home".

Free Samples & Great Buys!!

2011-04-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

I've been so happy with all of the great samples I've been getting lately. Most of them bring great coupons too, so that is a plus! Today I got 2 bags of Starburst Jellybeans at Target (the best jellybeans ever....I am so addicted) lol! They were 2 for $4 but I had a coupon for a dollar off so it came out to just 3 bucks! They also had the MegaMind movie for $13 off, so I bought it to put in Evan's Easter basket. Oh, and they were giving out a free recyclable Target bag with every purchase =)

Motherhood

2011-04-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

"Blessed is the mother;

Who can hold onto her children while letting them go;

Who puts a tranquil home ahead of an immaculate house;

Who knows a kind act will be remembered longer than an easy word;

Who really believes that prayer changes things;

Whose faith in the future sweetens the present;

Whose Bible never needs dusting;

Whose sense of humor is alive and well

Blessed Are The Parents

Blessed are the parents who refuse to compare their children with others.

Blessed are the Fathers and Mothers who have learned to Laugh, for it is the music of the child's world.

Blessed are those parents who accept the awkwardness of their growing children, letting each child grow at their own speed.

Blessed are the parents who can say " No " without anger.

Blessed are the parents who take their children to church, for it gladdens their hearts.

Blessed are the parents who are teachable, for understanding brings love.

Blessed are the parents who love their children in the midst of a hostile world, for love is the greatest gift of all"

Christina Perri

2011-03-28T21:46:00.000-07:00

Definitely getting her album "Lovestrong" that will be released on May 10th.....I'm counting down the days!! I absolutely love her music!!

Batman Lapbook

2011-03-08T16:40:00.000-08:00

Had a great time doing this Batman lapbook with Evan. I got the idea from 1+1+1=1. This was fun for him because he loves Batman & Robin. Here are some pics....

My New Favorite Singer =)

2011-03-04T18:14:00.000-08:00

I'm Back!

2011-03-03T08:02:00.000-08:00

Finally back after experiencing some "technical difficulties". lol I've been very overwhelmed lately with so much going on. School, work, kids, doctors....etc. Sometimes it seems like the "to-do" list never ends. Just trying to stay optimistic. The vacation my hubby keeps begging me to take is starting to call my name =)

2011-02-11T18:07:00.000-08:00

So happy my dad came to visit!! I was so upset that I was really sick for the first 2 days that he was here. We had a lot of laughs because my dad is hysterical. The boys had no clue he was coming so they were ecstatic to come home from school & find him here. Evan wanted him to stay....he kept repeating "please don't leave grandpa". Anyways, he had to leave yesterday. Very tearful goodbyes but I hope to see him again soon. My dad is my heart!

~~I love my father as the stars - he's a bright shining example and a happy twinkling in my heart~~

Sad Goodbyes

2011-01-22T18:50:00.000-08:00

Feeling sad that my mother in law had to go back to Puerto Rico & it broke my heart to see Evan (and my hubbs) get all emotional & cry (so of course....they made me cry too). Looking forward to visiting her soon in PR. In the meantime....we have a few pics of her visit to make us smile =)

Children's Museum

2011-01-16T08:11:00.000-08:00

Haven't been to the local Children's Museum in a while & we were surprised to see that the new Pirate Ship exhibit had recently been opened to the public. It was super cool & the boys had a blast! We later walked along the pier then briefly went to the beach to smell the ocean & feel the breeze (way too cold to swim even though some people were brave enough to be in the water). Now relaxing a bit. Glad the boys are off from school tomorrow. Evan has his dental checkup in the AM so I still have to get up early =)

2011!!

2011-01-06T08:37:00.000-08:00

So thankful to wipe the slate clean & start a New Year. My father in law has returned to PR but my mother in law is still here until next weekend. It's been nice having them over but I am beyond exhausted with work, the kids, & everything else. Thank God hubby has been off these couple of days so I can get a break. I'm hoping this year has many blessings, health & good fortune in store for all of my friends and family =)

Mother in Law, Evan, & my hubbs

Huge bird in action

Evan outside....playing with the big boys

Evan and big brother Gio

My handsome boys =)

Busy Month!!

2010-12-21T19:22:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in a while because my in-laws are visiting and I haven't had any time to do much of anything. They've both been really helpful around the house & have been keeping me company (which I will miss when they leave). I'm really happy that this Christmas will be extra special because they'll be here to share it with us.
Some pics from this month....

Evan posing in front of our tree

Helping with the lights...brave little boy. lol

New friend at the park

With his "Nina"

Family pic =)

Busy, Busy, Busy!!

2010-12-04T21:17:00.000-08:00

Crazy busy weekend. First, my oldest son turned 15!! I can't believe how quickly time has passed & that he's growing into a man. He is such a great boy & I'm thankful for how sweet & considerate he is. Not too many 15 year olds cut the grass, cook, clean, & even change diapers without complaining. He's gonna make a great husband one day =) Today we went to Lowe's Kid's Clinic & Evan made a train....he really loves going there! Later on, we went to our new favorite park. Very peaceful there & the kids get a kick out of the fish that are constantly jumping out of the water. Gonna have a busy week too with stuff from work and having to prepare for some visitors on Saturday. It never ends.........

Koko's Birthday Cake

Birthday Boy

The Boys

Reading His Card

Evan's Choo Choo Train

Climbing In The Jungle Gym

Mores Climbing

My Favorite Pic

Posing By The Lake

Thankful

2010-11-24T20:38:00.000-08:00

Just spent 5 fun days with my little sister!! So sad that she had to leave so soon but so thankful for the little time we had together. Funny how it seems like time has never passed when we're together. Like we're little girls again laughing at everything & being silly. I'm also thankful for all of God's protection & blessings.....for my husband & handsome, healthy boys. Thankful for my awesome family, my home, my job, my health, & believe it or not....all of the obstacles I have overcome that have made me wiser & stronger. Looking forward to the start of another new year, another chance at a clean slate =)

Surprise Visitor!!

2010-11-20T21:30:00.000-08:00

My sister is visiting until Wednesday & we haven't seen her in so long. Really happy that she's here & enjoying some family time. My ribs hurt from so much laughing but that's a good thing.....I definitely needed some laughs =) Poor hubby has been missing out because of work. The boys are so excited too & Evan asked her to please never leave =(
Good times....

When Titi surprised him when he got home home from school

Right before our yummy dinner

Evan listening to a bedtime story

Being silly

At Lowes Build & Grow Kids Clinic

At the dock

About to go down the fast slide

Posing.....what my sister does best. lol

Busy Weekend!

2010-11-14T19:31:00.000-08:00

Had a busy but great weekend. The boys had fun making a periscope at Lowes Build and Grow kid's clinic. Evan is becoming a pro at using a hammer! lol Gio also finished his science project on Hydroponics (with tons of help of course). Just relaxed at home today & hubby made a delicious roast with mashed potatoes & broccoli. About to watch the Walking Dead now, a new zombie series that my husband is crazy about. Hoping this week goes by fast.

The boys hydroponic setup after 8 plants were transferred

Gio's science fair board

Reminiscing!!

2010-11-06T22:09:00.000-07:00

Spent a lot of time today watching old videos of when Evan was first born. I really wish that I could hit the rewind button & go back to several moments that passed us by way too quickly. It was cute to see how funny he was even as a baby...he definitely inherited my silliness & sense of humor. lol So blessed that God chose me to be his mother and I love him to the moon and back <3

Some Halloween Pics!

2010-11-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

The boys had a blast Trick or Treating last night! Here are some pics....

Parent Poem....love this!

2010-10-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

1. Don't spoil me. I know quit well that I ought not have all that I ask for, I'm only testing you.

2. Don't be afraid to be firm with me, I prefer it. It makes me feel more secure.

3. Don't let me form bad habits, I have to rely on you to detect them in the early stages.

4. Don't make me feel smaller than I am, It only makes me behave stupidly big.

5. Don't correct me in front of people if you can help it.

6. Don't make me feel that my mistakes are sins, it upsets my set of values.

7. Don't be upset when I say "I hate you", it's not you I hate, but your power to hinder.

8. Don't protect me from consequences, I need to learn the painful way sometimes.

9. Don't nag, if you do I will need to protect myself by appearing deaf.

10. Don't make rash promises, remember I feel badly let down when promises are broken.

11. Don't tax my honesty too much, I am easily frightened into telling lies.

12. Don't be inconsistent, that completely confuses me and makes me lose faith in you.

13. Don't tell me my fears are silly, they are terribly real to me and you can do much to reassure me if you try to understand.

14. Don't ever suggest that you are perfect or infallible. It gives me to great a shock when I discover that you are neither.

15. Don't forget that I can't thrive without lots of love and understanding, but I don't need to tell you that, do I?

Disney Cars Lapbook

2010-10-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Evan was so excited about this lapbook! We saw it on 1+1+1=1. Evan has an obsession with this movie so this was a lot of fun for him (and very easy to do).
Here's a pic.....

Pumpkin Prayer

2010-10-27T11:31:00.000-07:00

We got this beautiful Pumpkin Prayer from church....

Dear Jesus, as I carve my pumpkin, help me pray this prayer:
         Open my mind so I can learn about YOU (Cut the top off the pumpkin)
         Take all my sins & forgive the wrong that I do  (Cut out the inside)
         Open my eyes so Your love I will see (Cut eyes shaped like hearts)
          I'm sorry for the times I've turned my nose up at what You've given
          to me (Cut a nose in the shape of the cross)
          Open my ears so Your word I will hear (Cut ears shaped like the Bible)
          Open my mouth to tell others You're near (Cut the mouth in the shape of a fish)
          Let Your light shine in all I say and do! (Place a candle inside & light it)
          Amen.

Carving Our Pumpkin =)

2010-10-25T19:21:00.000-07:00

Had a great night....carved a pumpkin with the boys. Oh, and Halloween 1 & 2 are on TV tonight!! You'd never know that I was terrified of Michael Myers growing up. lol
Some pumpkin pics....

Evan checking out some pumpkin brains. lol

Gio showing Evan what to do cause he was grossed out.

Laughing & holding his heart as he says "I can't do it mami". lol

"Ewwww, it's so nasty"!

Gio finally convinces him.

See, not as bad as u thought.

Goofing around =)

Getting the last of it.

Ta daaaaaa! I had to carve it since no one here has any artistic abilities. lol

Terrific Tiger Giveaway!!

2010-10-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Check out this awesome review & giveaway at His Wonderful Works!!

Sugar Rush!

2010-10-25T09:17:00.000-07:00

I surprised the boys with some candy apples a few days ago (I made them while they were in school). They were always my favorite when I was little & my heart still skips a beat when I see one. lol I didn't use all the sugar I was supposed to (2 & 1/2 cups of sugar is way too much). They came out great but I felt guilty cause I ate one the day after I went to the dentist to have my teeth cleaned (not smart but I couldn't resist). The boys loved them =)

Science Project....Hydroponics

2010-10-15T20:30:00.000-07:00

I've been super busy with work & not feeling that great that I haven't posted in while. Both of the boys were assigned science projects for school and a friend of mine suggested that we do a project on Hydroponics. Hydroponics is basically a way to grow plants by utilizing mineral nutrient solutions in water, without soil. We are using a rockwool medium (which consists of fibers from synthetic or natural minerals or metal oxides) to grow our seeds in and comparing them to a soil based medium. The nutrient solution's PH must be maintained between 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth of ours seeds. The 3 main elements in the nutrient solution are Nitrogen, Phosphorous & Potassium which are the 3 main elements required for plant growth. We were lucky to find a Hydroponic store really close to home. We even attended a basic Hydroponic class a few weeks ago which gave the boys an idea of what they're expected to do. The boys are actually excited about this science project...hope it turns out well =)

Sensory Bin-Fall

2010-10-05T08:54:00.000-07:00

Saw this great idea on 1+1+1=1 and I thought I would try it out with Evan because he loves to touch everything he sees. lol I came across some of the supplies at the dollar store & some at Michael's craft stores. I threw some pieces in there from my fall potpourri bag (some dried apples, cinnamon sticks, pine cones, & some small cornucopias) and I also added some pumpkin & bat decals & a little owl. Evan loved it & it kept him entertained for quite some time!! Gio also joined in on the fun. lol All of the pieces are in a small plastic bin for simple strorage. Here are some pictures....

Great Finds!

2010-10-05T08:33:00.000-07:00

Found some great buys yesterday....all were just a dollar except for the big Dry Erase Learning Mat which I found for just $2.00. The Nickelodeon books were from the dollar store. I found the awesome foam puzzles at Staples (those were my favorite....I wish I would've had those way back when for my anatomy class). lol I found the Flash Cards & the learning mat at Office Depot. I've been wanting to get them for quite some time but thought they were over-priced so I was so happy that I found them on clearance =)

2010-10-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

Had a fun day with the boys. Went to a Halloween event that had face painting, free pumpkins, & a petting zoo. Afterwards, we let Evan run around the water fountains. Exhausting day but great memories =)

Marine Day!!

2010-09-25T13:36:00.000-07:00

Awesome afternoon at Marine Day!! They had a lot of cool activities for the little ones. Evan loved playing with the colored sand & going on the huge inflatable slide. Fun filled day....the boys are all tired out now =)

Lowe's Kids Worskshop

2010-09-25T12:57:00.000-07:00

This morning we went to the Lowe's workshop & Evan was a bit bummed because he was looking forward to working on a firetruck but we were told that they were recalled so instead ,we worked on an awesome puppet theatre!! Evan is almost a pro at hammering the nails (maybe he can help dad around the house). lol Oh, and once he saw the real firetruck & ambulance that were there...he forgot about everything else! He was allowed to sit in the firetruck and little man was in heaven =)

Candy Corn Worsksheets

2010-09-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Since Evan & I are candy corn fanatics....I printed these cute sheets for Evan to work on. He was anxious to complete his candy corn math so he could eat them all. lol

Another Year Younger

2010-09-23T00:07:00.000-07:00

Recently celebrated my birthday and I always like to think I'm getting younger instead of older (young at heart anyways). lol My guys surprised me with this beautiful rasberry cheesecake that was beyond delicious!! I'm so thankful for another year of life, another year to enjoy watching my boys grow up, another year to learn more, live more, & love more.

~~ It takes a long time to grow young~~
~~And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years~~

Pom Poms with Numbers!

2010-09-22T23:45:00.000-07:00

Found these great printables at 1+1+1=1 and Evan had a blast doing them! He knows all of his numbers so this was something he could do more independently. I didn't laminate them or cut them into separate squares otherwise they'd end up all over the place =) He was so proud of himself & couldn't wait to show his work to daddy as soon as we walked through the door. lol

Feelings Lapbook

2010-09-05T23:07:00.000-07:00

This was an awesome Lapbook for Evan to do because the 1st thing they do every morning at his preschool is send them to the front of the classroom & ask them how they are feeling. Evan has to pick a laminated square with an expression (which is always the smily face) and he says to the class "I AM HAPPY!!" Cutest thing ever!! This was lots of fun because I would state a feeling & Evan would act it out (his angry expression was hysterical...he sounded like the hulk). lol We got the great idea from http://1plus1plus1equals1.blogspot.com/2009/08/feelings-tot-book.html & were able to download the pages to complete the lapbook from that site. All of the books we read were awesome! Evan's favorite was, How Are You Peeling?, which used to be Gio's book when he was small. We also own My Many Colored Days, The Loveables, and The Way I Feel....Evan loves them all (and so do I). lol Here are some pictures =)

Savings Galore!!

2010-09-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

Just had to post some great deals I got yesterday thanks to the heads up from Mojo Savings. The packages of 184 count Huggies Wipes were on sale for $3.99 each with the $2 coupon from the Walgreen Booklet (found in the store). I also had a $1 coupon for Huggie wipes which they let me use. General Mills cereals were on sale for $1.99 and I got $2 off with another coupon. I also got a chapstick (they go like crazy here) which ended up costing me 50 cents with a coupon from the Walgreen Booklet. Shout stain remover was 2 for $5 but there was only 1 left so I got it half off & the Xcel detergets were on sale for $1.99 each!! My total savings was $18.99!! I'm always happy when I can save a few bucks =)

I also saw this coupon on Mojo Savings http://mojosavings.com/2010/08/30/staples-free-avery-label-pads/.
I printed the $1 off coupon and the cost of the Avery Label Pads were $1 at Staples so I got them for free =)

Another great savings from Staples was the HammerMill copy paper. The cost was $5.99 with $1 instant rebate, then you apply for the $4.49 easy rebate online (which was very simple to complete), and the total cost comes out to 50 cents!! Super deal!!

Gio's B-day

2010-09-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

We bought Gio an Oreo cake on Sunday for his B-day & it was delicious!! Thanks to my friend Misty who gave me the idea =) Didn't get to do way too much besides take him to I-Hop for dinner the night before but he was totally okay with it. This year things have been hectic since his B-day fell on the Wednesday of the 1st week of school. All he wanted was an SD card for his Nintendo DS (he was bugging me for months) so I got him one and he was on cloud 9. My little boy is all grown up (*tear*). I'm going to be a wreck when they all go off to college in a few years.

Marine Science Day!!

2010-08-28T22:49:00.000-07:00

Today we went to 2 different Marine Science centers which were super cool & educational for the boys. Evan got in both places for free & the cost for us to get in was only 1 dollar! Anyways, the 1st place we went to is a few feet away from a beautiful, sandy beach. I really loved this location because it has a long sidewalk along the water where there have been many dolphins & manatees seen swimming around. There is also a fun playground for the little ones to enjoy. When we first entered, there was a tank with small animals such as hermit crabs, snails, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, & starfish that the kids could actually touch & hold. We were at that tank for a loooong time. lol I had to pry Evan away from there because he was so fascinated with all of the little sea creatures. There were several fish tanks with beautiful salt water fish, crabs, & starfish, and then the path led to an educational room which has some interactive things for the little ones such as a magnetic board for them to match debris with the length of time it takes it to decompose if thrown into the ocean (I thought that was a great way to teach the kids to keep the oceans clean). There were also little cubbies with the names & a little toy as a example of certain sea creatures such as a seahorse or a humpback whale & there were little laminated squares with velcro on the back for the kids to place on the corresponding pictures. They also had little stations with sea puzzles & coloring sheets of mangroves for the little kids & Evan's favorite.....a tank with all of the real fish that resemble the one's on Finding Nemo! My 2 oldest enjoyed the microscopes they had with live samples for them to examine and a small flat screen TV next to the miscroscopes that displayed what they were looking at in a larger size. The gift shop was pretty neat too. I got these shirts for Evan & Gio which are all white with sea creature designs (Evan got sharks & Gio got sea turtles) and when u go in the sun.....colors magically appear on the shirt! Coolest thing I've ever seen =) Koko got a shark's tooth necklace....I was surprised that the prices were so reasonable. Next, we went to the Manatte Center which was my favorite! It was so perfect for Evan being that we did a unit on Manatees not too long ago. I was shocked to see that he remembered a lot of facts about the Manatees. They had lots of stuff for the kids to explore....Evan's favorite was a sand table full of shells. The coolest thing was seeing how a fisherman outside got a seahorse caught in his net & they put in into one of the saltwater tanks in the center. Evan couldn't stop admiring it =) Here are some pictures....

Back to School Chaos

2010-08-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

We survived the boys first week back to school!!! Glad we've finally got our morning routine down packed. The first day was definitely chaotic as I had to dart from one bus stop to another because my boys attend 3 different schools. Once they were on the buses, I worried about them getting there safely & finding their classes without any problems and thennnnn, I worried about how there day would go & whether or not they would like their teachers. Anyways, everyone was happy with their teachers and I'm hoping it stays that way. Although I start missing them as soon as they leave, I'm not gonna lie....I've enjoyed the peace & quiet at home (no whining, no messess, & no noise for 8 straight hours)!!! I could definitely get used to this =)
Here are some pics (Couldn't post Gio's pic cause I took it with my phone)

Check Out This Great Giveaway!!!

2010-08-19T00:45:00.000-07:00

Click on this link to find out about an awesome book giveaway!! http://thelegacyofhome.blogspot.com/2010/08/novel-about-homeschooling-giveaway.html

Fun Day Learning!

2010-08-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

Had an awseome day learning with Evan today. We put Gio's Spell Time by Cadaco (which I bought several years ago when Gio was smaller) to good use!! Evan had tons of fun using it. It's only missing 1 or 2 letters but all 15 of the cards are in great condition. He had to match the color to the letter then put the letter in it's correct spot. It was fun....we could've done that all day =)

We did some workbook pages. Evan did a super job! We are trying to work with him on how to hold a pencil. It's kind of tough cause he is ambidextrous like his mama & he's always switching the pencil from one hand to another.

Evan also enjoyed this book of mazes we bought him at Target for just a dollar. He would've done the whole book in one sitting if I would've let him. I liked that it brings stickers....I let him pick the one he wanted =)

We also did some fun art with seashells, playdoh, & paint. I had just as much fun as he did with this =)

Botanical Gardens

2010-08-15T21:58:00.000-07:00

I decided to take the boys to our local Botanical Garden because I've been wanting to go see it and the admission was free for a day. The scenery was peaceful & beautiful & the boys loved it (to my surprise). Here are some of the pictures we took.

Manatees Lapbook!!

2010-08-15T21:26:00.000-07:00

This is Evan (and my) favorite lapbook so far.....Manatees!! They are such gentle giants & we love marinelife so it was so much fun to learn about them. Big brother Gio joined us on this one & he had fun too =) We saw the lapbook on 1+1+1=1 and just had to do it (thanks to Carissa for sharing all of her great ideas)! We read several books about Manatees but Evan absolutely loved "I Am Manatee" by John Lithgow. It's a fun rhyming story about a boy that dreams that he's a Manatee. Oh, and we were surprised to see an episode of Diego yesterday which focused on Manatees (perfect timing)!!

Grocery Store Lapbook

2010-08-09T21:31:00.000-07:00

This lapbook was a lot of fun to do with Evan because it reinforces the difference between healthy foods & junk foods. Evan did a great job of matching the foods to their corresponding colors & he loved buying groceries with his fake money & coupons (I clip tons of coupons all of the time so I had fun with this too). lol

Great Buys!!

2010-08-09T21:10:00.000-07:00

Just had to share some great buys we've found. First, we found some more awesome educational puzzles at Target for only a dollar!! We found one about 5 senses, one about body parts, & a cute one about sea animals. Evan has been really into puzzles lately so he loved all 3 of them.

We also found some cool Lift A Flap books at the dollar store about US Presidents, States, and The World. I like these a lot because when my 2 older boys read to Evan, they can learn important facts & refresh their memory at the same time (tricking them into learning). lol

We also found these little brain teaser cards at the Dollar Store. I love these & Evan has so much fun with them. The first two are for ages 4-6 & the last one is for ages 5-7.

We also found these cool wheels with tons of information about States, Presidents, Animals, & Dinosaurs. These are great because the older boys can use them as well. They have tons of interesting facts....very entertaining. Evan loves the dinosaur one =)

A Day In My Life.....

2010-08-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

Just had the craziest day ever. Had to work until the wee hours of the morning to then muster up some energy & get Evan to swimming practice early this morning. I was so exhausted but I didn't want him to miss his make up session, so I took him (in the sweltering heat). Afterwards, I brought Evan over to the lab for some routine bloodwork. I was impressed at how nice the phlebotomist was & at how she took the time to explain the whole process to Evan & even gave him a big hug & some stickers when he was done for being such a good sport =) After that, we grabbed a bite to eat then went to the library and reminded Evan a million times that he had to whisper in there. lol He was so excited because he loves books....he couldn't contain his excitement. We signed out a bunch of books then headed home to drop him & big brother off to relax at home while I went to Gio's school to buy him this years uniform & school planner. I'm so glad that I got that overwith because I was about to lose it with them the year before (they kept messing up our order). Thank God things went smoothly & Gio has his stuff. I just have to find someone to fix the length cause the slacks are a bit too long but I'll worry about that on Monday. We then ended up going to the bank then back home to find hubby looking miserable and asking me to go Urgent Care with him (I was so ready to collapse from exhaustion, but I took him). The staff worked quickly and gave him a shot of penicillin & some prescriptions so I'm hoping he gets some type of relief cause it's been 2 weeks of him coughing up a lung. I THENNNN had to take him to the pharmacy to get his meds, picked up a few snacks for the boys at Target as well as a pizza cause I had no energy left to even think about cooking. We finally got home, took showers, & ate. I went to lie down in bed & I passed out until 10pm (which means I'll probably be up all night now). This is why I can never, ever relax.....always something to do, always on duty as mom, nurse, cook, taxi cab...etc. but I wouldn't have it anyother way =)

~~Mother love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible.~~

~~It's not easy being a mother. If it were easy, fathers would do it.~~

Relaxing Day at Home

2010-07-31T22:30:00.000-07:00

Finally....a relaxing day at home!! We all really needed the rest. Evan behaved and kept busy with some puzzles we picked up for him at Target. He also used his chalkboard & is getting good at writing his letters. Might stay home and relax tomorrow too....I could get used to this. lol

Evan's Ocean Lapbook

2010-07-30T21:29:00.000-07:00

Evan's ocean lapbook (big brother was a big help in helping complete it). We all had so much fun with this & Evan loves it =)

Back to School.......

2010-07-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

Very sad that my sister in law & her family leave early tomorrow morning. We had to say our goodbye's tonight because they have to leave around 2am. They spent a whole week with us then went to a few theme parks in Orlando this past week. I'm gonna miss the company....I sometimes hate being so far away from everyone I know but I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world (well.....maybe I would trade it in for a beach house in Hawaii). lol Anyways, the countdown to school has begun!! I have to get a move on things because Gio's school uniform still has to be ordered. I also still have to get Koko's school clothes & buy them shoes & backpacks. We try to shop smart but the uniforms always end up costing us an arm & a leg (>200 bucks for Gio's school uniforms alone)!! I shouldn't complain though because he goes to an excellent school. Thank God Evan's school supplies are all taken care of. We got some him some great, inexpensive school clothes at the outlets plus we got 15% off of our purchase at The Children's Place (I love that store). It's so easy getting stuff for Evan because he could care less what clothes we make him put on. lol Gio, on the other hand is super picky & his clothes have to fit him just right or he won't wear them....he's not into baggy clothes like the rest of us. Gio's birthday is coming up as well. July & August are tough on us because we have so many birthdays in the family along with the task of getting ready for school. Talk about a double whammy! One good thing is that my cousin Lisa & my baby girl, Alison, are coming to visit around the end of August......I can't wait!! It's always a relief to have some girls in this house other than myself =)

~~“The difference between school and life? In school, you're taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you're given a test that teaches you a lesson.”~~

Nuttin But Stringz - Thunder

2010-07-23T07:23:00.000-07:00

Summer Visit

2010-07-20T22:05:00.000-07:00

Having a great time with the family!! We went to the beach & to the Children's Museum the day after and the boys had a blast!! Took a detour to Ikea and got a cool desk for Koko for only $25!! I love that store.....I just wish it wasn't so far away. I couldn't join the family this morning....had to get 2 intraforaminal injections in my lower back. Had to wait an eternity in the waiting room....so aggravating but my doctor is good & I only trust him with those huge needles. lol The shots hurt like crazy though!! Afterwards, I hobbled over to Toys R Us to redeem one of Evan's gift cards from his B-day & I got him an awesome easel....I was happy to see that it rang up to be $10 cheaper than the price on the sign!! He absolutely loves painting & drawing & I am so happy that one of my boys finally inherited my love of art =) Evan had swimming lessons today but I couldn't make it thanks to my back. It hurts so bad that I can't even cross my legs (bad habit). Anyways.....was able to put together a great taco meal (my SIL & her husband are still raving about the tacos I made them during their last visit). Oh, and we got a cake for both my SIL & hubby who share B-days just 3 days apart & the cake had cream cheese filling....super delicious!! Read the boys a few books and thank God they fell asleep fairly quickly cause I desperately needed some meds & my heating pad. Regardless of my back issues....we've had some great laughs. It's gonna be rough when they leave & I am stuck here all alone again with the boys as hubby goes back to work 24-7.

~~Other things may change us, but we start and end with family~~
~~A happy family is but an earlier heaven~~

Imperfections

2010-07-16T19:12:00.000-07:00

Once again....a long, exhausting day!!! Preparing for my sister in law to arrive with her family. We are so excited to see them!!! I'm starting to feel like I feel a vacation myself. My neck & back pain is out of control & it gets soooo hard for me to function but, I do what I can. Thank God the boys step in and help do most of the hard stuff when hubby is at work. Not sure what I would do without them. I can't help to want things neat & in order (I'm a Virgo....it's in my nature). Plus, it's the way I was raised. If I made 1 spelling error on my homework, it would be ripped up & I'd have to start again. Whatever questions I got wrong on a test....I'd have to write a hundred times so I wouldn't forget it. Oh, and whoever knows me well, knows that I ALWAYS had to clean.....everything!! I remember not being able to find socks for church & my mom dumped the whole drawer & made me perfectly match all of my socks. It never made me learn....it just made me resent my mother & wants things to be perfect & lets face it, that doesn't exist. Anyway, now that I have my own kids, I let them make mistakes, I let them cross things out on their homework even though I secretly wish they would just do it over =) They don't always get every question right on their tests but I applaud them for their effort. They don't always keep their rooms perfectly neat, but I want them to learn that imperfection is okay. I don't want them to be like me.....if I write something & it's not neat enough, I do it over. If there's a mess or something to be done....I stress about it. I'm learning that being a bit sloppy is okay (just take a peek in my closet & you'll see it's true). lol It's crazy that it took years to teach me to go above & beyond...to be a neat freak and now I ask, "for what"?? I remember I used to argue with my mom about making my bed every morning. I use to say "why does it matter?? No one's gonna see it anyway!!" Now that I am grown....I rarely make my bed =) Trying hard to be perfect knowing that it's never attainable is just setting yourself up for disappointment. It's not as fun as just letting go & being a kid!

~~The fastest way to break the cycle of perfectionism and become a fearless mother is to give up the idea of doing it perfectly - indeed to embrace uncertainty and imperfection.~~

~~There is a kind of beauty in imperfection~~

Evan Turns 4!!!

2010-07-12T21:57:00.000-07:00

So happy that my baby boy turned 4 today. Still a bit sad that he's growing way too fast but on the other hand, I'm happy at how independent he has become. He really wanted a Phineas & Ferb cake so I slaved over it until it came out decent. lol

My 2 older boys were away at Nickelodeon Studios for 3 days with my hubby's cousin & family & they had a blast! I wasn't used to so much silence at home. lol Evan missed them like crazy & was so happy that they arrived just in time to watch him blow his candles out =) We also had some family come visit & I was really happy to see them....we had such a great time! I haven't laughed that hard in a long time.

Today was super busy....Evan had his well check up & then all 3 of the boys had their dental cleaning. No cavities for Evan (I was surprised cause he is so stubborn & always wants to brush his teeth by himself). We ended up at Chuck E Cheese's and everyone who knows me, knows how I dread that place but Evan wanted to go there for his B-day so we took him and he had a great time. He got icecream afterwards and then took a 3 hour nap when we got home.....we actually had to wake him up =)

Some Summer Adventures

2010-06-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

Recovering from a busy weekend. On Saturday we went to a nearby Children's Museum which was perfect for Evan. He tends to get overwhelmed at places like that & wants to do everything at once so we had to constantly remind him to stop & enjoy every single thing because all of the other stuff was not "going anywhere". He fell in love with a huge car there & was content with taking the wheels off the car & replacing them over & over again. He looked too cute....like he actually knew what he was doing. lol We had never been there before so we had no clue they had a splash pad. Evan was lucky that we always bring an extra change of clothes for him so we allowed him to get soaked & the joy on little face was priceless =) Since we have a family pass for the museum that allows us to get into other Children Museums for free, we decided to check out another Children's Museum which was a bit of a hike but it was awesome!! I think we had just as much fun there as the boys did! They have so many cool exhibits that are educational and many are both in English & in Spanish which was impressive!! I really wish it were a lot closer to home. We will definitely be going back soon. It's great how having kids lets us relive a little bit of our childhood.

~~The soul is healed by being with children~~

Do Terrible Two's Last Forever??

2010-06-21T20:44:00.000-07:00

Wondering how long the terrible two's are supposed to last!! Evan will be 4 next month but he has his moments when he tries to act like a baby or does things deliberately even though he knows he will get in trouble for it. He's been playing with the bathroom faucets, getting into the fridge, screaming when he doesn't get his way, saying "what the heck" (which he heard one of the boys say). We had a talk with the boys because tries to mirror everything they do, so they have to make sure they watch what they do or say around him because he repeats absolutely everything! We had a special lock on his door but Houdini figured out how to open it & he wreaks havoc in the house while everyone is sound asleep. I tried getting another childproof lock for the door but since our doorknobs are not the normal round ones, we can't figure out how to keep him in his room. Anyways, I made him a poster board with a list behaviors he needs to change. I bought some fake money from the dollar store & put prices on each good behavior. He can get fake money for all of the good behaviors listed but if he behaves badly, he can lose the money he has earned. I also got a little basket of goodies & labeled it the "Good Behavior Store". We sat him down & went through all of the behaviors he is expected to change & we told him that at the end of each week, he can use his money to buy something from the store. He was super excited & right away, we noticed a change in his behavior. He started being more polite and we acknowledged it & praised him for it. Let's see how this all turns out because my only other option is to send him to a boot camp for toddlers! lol

~~Boys are God's way of telling you that your house is too neat!~~

~Do not train boys to learning by force and harshness, but lead them by what amuses them, so that they may better discover the bent of their minds~~

Father's Day 2010!!

2010-06-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

Had a wonderful day with the family today. Hubby had to work but was able to leave a bit early. We took advantage of the time by cooking & baking some goodies for him. I came across this very cute recipe while flipping through a magazine at Gio's pediatrician's office. Everyone who knows my husband, knows that he really enjoys doing BBQ's, so I thought it would be great to make this for him & he loved it! Oh, and we also made Chicken Marsala, baked fries with parmesan cheese & olive oil, baby snap peas, Caeser salad, & some Strawberry Daquiris to wash it all down. The food came out delicious! Hubby & the boy had 3 servings & I'm sure they would've ate some more if there were any left. lol We then let hubby open all of his cards & gifts which we put a lot of love into. It was great spending quality time with the man I love & I thank God for the day we met....that was the luckiest day of my life =)

Evan Will be Turning 4!!!

2010-06-09T22:50:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of my baby boy for all of his progress this year! Not only has he been doing beautifully in school, but his vocabulary has expanded & so has his eagerness to learn new things! He just started his swimming lessons this Tuesday (he was supposed to start last week but it was postponed because of all of the thunder & lightning). He did super on his first lesson and actually cried cause he wanted to stay in the water (just like his momma, obsessed with water). lol He joined the 100 Book Challenge at school & we have surpassed 100 books in just 1 month! He needs me to read at least 3-4 books a night or he cries himself to sleep. It amazes me how quiet & attentive he is when being read too. Our library is awesome & has many books in both English & Spanish so I read him many books in both languages in the hopes that he will learn more Spanish. I can't believe he will be 4 next month....makes me want to cry when I think of how quick he is growing!
~~Between the innocence of babyhood and the dignity of manhood, we find a delightful creature of a boy~~

Papi's Visit

2010-05-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

Feeling so happy & blessed that we've been able to spend the past few days with my dad. Haven't seen him in a while & I'm not looking forward to him leaving. His visit was a complete surprise for the boys (it was sooooo hard to keep it a secret but I did it). lol I was surprised at how emotional my oldest became when we sent him to get something from his closet & my dad was standing inside. I haven't seen my boy cry like that since he was a baby...bendito. We've been pretty busy showing him around. We took him to the beach & the waves kept knocking him down....he was flapping around in the water like a fish (hard not to laugh, I was actually cracking up).

We then went to Longhorn Steakhouse for the first time....awseome restaurant! The food was delicious and Evan made friends with half the people there. His new thing is going up to people & asking "Hey, what's uuuu name??" People think it's cute but I worry that he's so open to talk to strangers. Oh, & he has a new obsession with watermelon & strawberries (has to have some EVERY night)!! We enrolled him in swimming lessons because we don't want to get a pool installed until he is a good swimmer. The boy loves water like his momma =)

We had a great, relaxing day yesterday. We had my hubby's cousin & family come over for a BBQ & then we surprised his cousin with a B-day cake his wife snuck over. lol I wished the weekends could last a bit longer. Today was just another "Manic Monday". Had an appointment, several errands to run, lunch, etc. then home to get a million things done!! Thank God for caffeine or I'd pass out from exhaustion!!

Summer Is Near!!!

2010-05-15T22:07:00.000-07:00

     Summer is right around the corner & I can hardly wait! We've already been to the beach a few times (even though the water is cold). I just have to remember to bring our big umbrella next time because Evan & I get sunburned so easily (oh, & I bought a sunscreen with a stronger SPF of 70 so hopefully that'll save our sensitive skin).
     The boys only have a few more weeks to go before school is out for the summer. I am happy about that because I'm so tired of all them being bombarded with so much homework & so many projects!! They have it so much harder than I did.....I never remember doing so many projects & taking so many tests. So much pressure on these poor kids to excel but I'm sure that it will help them be successful later in life. I always tell them that nothing will ever be handed to them....if they have a dream, it's up to them to make it happen. They will appreciate things in life a lot more if they work hard for it. Evan has made incredible progress in Pre-K & his teacher is so impressed with his love of books. When I was little, my dad used to bring home a lot of children's books for us to read (I actually have saved most of them) & it's thanks to him that I grew up loving to read & having such a vivid imagination. I'm glad that I have passed that onto my boys. Every night, I sit on the side of Evan's bed & read him a few books & he loves it! I love it as well because I get to bond with him & hopefully someday when he reads to his babies, he'll remember those special moments :)
        Speaking of special moments, my dad is coming to visit us in a few days & the boys have no clue!! They are always talking about how much they miss him & they always see things that remind them of him. I'm super excited because I haven't seen him in a while & I miss him.....he's the only person that knows how to make me laugh no matter how bad my day has gone.  Can't wait to see the look on my boy's faces when they seem him!!!
~~My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me~~

My Baby is Growing Up!

2010-04-11T21:30:00.000-07:00

I have been wondering lately where the time has gone. My 14 year old is growing up way too quick!! I still remember clearly how tiny & fragile he was when he was born & now he is much taller and stronger than me. So many things for me to worry about now....school, sports, health, peer pressure, girls, etc. I'm trying to take it one day at a time but it's definitely overwhelming. I have faith that we have raised him right & I'm proud of how compassionate & considerate he is. When I was pregnant with him, I remember choosing not to find out whether or not I was having a boy or a girl because I just knew I was going to have a boy!! I am so thankful & blessed that God has given me the opportunity to to raise such wonderful boys. Not only do they help a great deal around the house but they always hold doors open for people, are kind, & helpful when we are out & about and it feels great when people compliment us on having raised such "gentlemen". I just pray that I have the patience & wisdom to help them realize all of their hopes & dreams. Being a mother is a privilege & it's important to keep that in the back of our minds on those days that we are stressed, exhausted, & ready to throw in the towel =)

Thinking.....

2010-03-23T19:21:00.000-07:00

Haven't been on here in quite some time. Lot of things going on. I have been feeling under the weather & have not been getting any better. I'm hoping to feel better soon...leaving it all in God's hand. Thinking about how people fear death and I don't. I imagine that heaven is a paradise & I look forward to seeing the faces of the people I love & miss so much. ~~“Love is stronger than death even though it can't stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can't separate people from love. It can't take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death.”~~

Poem from my heart

2010-02-17T17:51:00.000-08:00

For my Grandparents that I love & miss <3

I miss your voice, your smile, your face
You made this world a better place
Now when I think of you I cry
I miss you more, each day I die

I need to see your sparkling eyes
I wasn't ready for goodbyes
I needed you to never leave
And now I'm left alone to grieve

So when I get to heaven please
Be the first face I get to see
I really miss the way you sing
You made the best of everything

You always brightened up my day
And always knew just way to say
I was with you until the end
You were my heart and a true friend

So when I see the stars and moon
I wish that I could see you soon
No one could ever take your place
You are the smile upon my face

The glitter in my eyes that shine
You beat inside this heart of mine
I miss you and it's plain to see
That heaven holds a piece of me

Fun but Exhausting Weekend

2010-02-01T17:08:00.000-08:00

Missing my in-laws being here. We took them to the airport on Saturday....what an ordeal! JetBlue was undergoing some type of special changes which made everything chaotic. The lines were extremely long & father in law had to come back outside to give us some bottles of rum he accidently packed in his overhead bags (ooooops, lol). Poor Evan missed giving his "bwelos" their kiss, hug, & "squeeze" at night. After we left the airport, we went to my cousin Lenny's house. I haven't seen her in about 14 years!! It was great seeing her & meeting her boys who were so adorable :) The kids had so much fun...my boys didn't want to leave. The drive home seemed eternal even though it was only a 2 hour drive (probably because we were in the car all day & I was thinking about the mess that was waiting for me at home). On Sunday we had a nice day out with the boys & got a lot of things done. Today I think that doing so much in the past month has started to catch up to me....I'm so exhausted right & I have a wicked migraine that has not responded to anything I've taken for it. I'm going to try and take it slow this month (not just saying it, I plan on sticking to it) and I think I'll start right now. It's pouring outside (very loudly) so I think I'm just going to fall asleep listening to all of this rain =)

Giving Thanks

2010-01-21T07:28:00.000-08:00

I wanted to write a note to give thanks. So many times we overlook all of the little things we've been blessed with and we tend to complain instead of thanking God for what we do have. I thank God for allowing me to be a mother which I think is the greatest gift he has given me. There is no greater love than that of a mother & child & being a mother has taught me so many things but the greatest lesson it has taught me is unconditional love. There is nothing I wouldn't do or give up for the well being of my boys & I'm glad that they know that they are #1 to me....above & beyond anything or anyone else in my life. Being a mother has taught me to be selfless, to think of myself last, and to worry about someone else's needs & happiness other than my own. I am thankful for my children because without them I would be all alone in this world & I'd have no purpose in life. Another person I am thankful for is my wonderful husband....God truly blessed me when he brought him into my life. Not only is he the most hardworking, honest, & loving man that I know but there is nothing he wouldn't do for me or the boys. I appreciate that he works so hard to provide for us & that he always takes time out to play & spend time with the boys (even though I know he is exhausted...bendito). He never, ever complains & does everything with a smile on his face. I am thankful that I am married to such an admirable man & I love him with all of my <3. I'm also very thankful for my health. Those of you who know me well know what a horrible back I have inherited :( Surgery didn't help much & neither have all of the injections & meds I've been on. I am glad though that I am able to get up everyday & function. I would hate to be confined to a bed like others who are worse off than I am. It is a gift to wake up everyday & see my kid's smiling faces. No matter how bad my day is....those smiles inspire me to work harder & to be a better person in life.
“Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough.” ~Oprah Winfrey~

2010-01-17T12:26:00.000-08:00

So exhausted this weekend!! Yesterday I went to BJ's to buy a few things & I had to get a latte cause I was so tired I could hardly even function!! We stocked up on diapers (for home), pull-ups (for school), & wipes....thank goodness for coupons cause those things alone add up! We also stocked up on meats & snacks because we have more visitors coming this Friday =) Afterwards, we went to Toys R Us cause Koko got an electric guitar with his gift card but it didn't work out for him cause he's a lefty. Unfortunately for him, they sell absolutely no guitars for lefty's, so we had to return it. He ended up deciding on a basketball hoop (which made me happy cause I love playing basketball). I can't wait to put it up....my boys are a bit jealous of my B-ball skills. lol Afterwards, we went to eat & headed back home to put everything away (more work....ay, ay, aaaay). This morning, I made the boys a great breakfast & we've basically been cleaning all morning. I honestly wish we had black marble or tile floors because I can see every little speck of dust or crumb on these cream colored tiles & it drives me insane!! I could sweep/vacuum twice a day & it's never enough. Oh, and for some reason Evan's cream colored rug is always getting stained (with God knows what) and I have to steam clean it a few times a month. I'm tired just thinking about all of the cleaning we did today. lol On a positive note, I have plenty of boy clothes that I'll be shipping to Haiti. The situation there is heartbreaking and the boys have lots of clothes that could be put to good use. We have been praying for everyone there. I only wish we could do more :( The boys even get upset at Evan when he doesn't eat all of his food cause they think of all of the children there that haven't had anything to eat or drink for days, bendito. I wish I had enough money to adopt a few kids & give them a good life. God knows if I could....I would!!

Missing My Sis!!!

2010-01-12T16:30:00.000-08:00

My sister left today. We've all been so sad that she had to leave :( The baby came home searching each & every room for her while calling out for his "Titi Deychi"....bendito, he broke my heart. I miss her so much already & hope that she comes back soon. Yesterday was her last day here and I had to spend most of it running Evan to the doctor's cause he had projectile vomiting (he was miserable)!! Even though Daisy was only here for a short time....we managed to get a lot of things done & had lots of fun. My favorite of course was getting a massage at the spa because we honestly needed it. After being here for a week, my sister has officially decided to not have children & get a dog instead. lolllll I can't blame her. The boys were so happy to have her here that they forgot to let her breathe a bit =) We did laugh way too much this week (to the point that my ribs were sore). No one else cracks up with me like my little sis & I'm glad that God listened to me when I was a little girl & prayed for a little sister <3

Visit#2 This Month.....My Sister!!!

2010-01-07T11:07:00.000-08:00

I'm extremely happy this week because my little sister is here visiting!! I haven't seen her since May & we've all missed her like crazy. Yesterday we went to Walmart to stock up on goodies & baking stuff. I HAVE to make her some brownies with walnuts before she leaves (I think that may be the only reason why she came down here)....joking =) I have to show my sis how to cook some real food so she doesn't have to live off of Beefaroni & Oatmeal cream pies anymore. lol The boys are so excited that she's here. I can't believe that my older son is already taller than his Titi. Crazy how time flies. Anyway, my sister had me record her singing yesterday (a gazillion times) in order to submit a video for an audition. I made her promise that she will take me with her on the red carpet when she becomes famous!! We also went out to have dinner & she tried a Gorgonzola burger for the 1st time & loved it. Those are my favorite burgers. Those of you that know us well, know about our addiction to cheeeeeeese =) Evan was incredibly calm at dinner last night (I think it was thanks to skipping his nap). We stayed up for a bit to watch some videos & laugh....very loudly (Daisy has a unique laugh). I caught up with some sleep last night but if it were up to me I would've stayed in bed for a few more hours. Wish my little sister didn't have to leave in a few days :(

Quality Time

2010-01-03T21:38:00.000-08:00

Had a great night with the fam. We've watched several movies over the past few days including Paranormal Activity (which creeped Zuly out big time), Drag Me to Hell (which really grossed me out) plus, I didn't like the ending, The Exorcism of Emily Rose (which hubby finds scary & I find a bit boring), Bedtime Stories (which had the boys & us laughing)...I LOVED the Guinea Pig with the bug eyes in that movie, and lastly, The Notebook (which is one of my favorite love stories). Of course us girls were sniffling & teary-eyed while watching that last movie. I really enjoyed staying home & relaxing today (I think we all needed it too). The family leaves Tuesday evening & I really wish they didn't have to. Ian has been attached to the hip to Koko & Zuly is amazed at his patience & how sweet he has been for playing with Ian ALL day!! Poor Gio looked miserable because he was sick & he slept almost all day. He could barely eat his soup...bendito. Luckily, I got his antibiotics so hopefully they will kick in soon. I also read books to the boys. Evan kept getting jealous & would not let Ian sit too close to me when I was reading to them. Too funny. lol We were also looking through my Richard Scary books (from when I was little) & I was surprised at how well Ian could name things in English. Very smart little boy!! Evan was saying the words right along with him (he even said a few that I thought he didn't know...trying hard to impress his Titi). We have had a great week & I'm sad that it's coming to an end. Poor Zuly has no clue how she's going to tear her little guy away from our boys because he has become so close to them. I'm hoping the next 2 days move go by very slowly so that we can enjoy having them here a little longer.
"Our most basic instinct is not for survival but for family. Most of us would give our own life for the survival of a family member, yet we lead our daily life too often as if we take our family for granted". ~Paul Pearshall

2010-01-03T21:03:00.001-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Fun Day

2010-01-03T05:27:00.000-08:00

Wow....I have done & million & one things over the past few days!! I drove sister in law & family to the Outlet Malls yesterday. About a 3 hour drive in total (with 4 bouncy boys in the van). lol A lot of walking but great fun. My back was so sore that it even hurt as the water from the shower hit it!! Nevertheless, I'm really happy to have some company & I'm going to be super lonely when everyone leaves :( Today, we went to a B-day party with the boys. Afterwards, we went to Walmart to stock up on some more food & snacks for our barracudas. lol In the evening, we headed to a superfun center with bowling, mini golf, arcade, & batting cages. The food at Duffy's was fantastic! I ate the best Gorgonzola Burger I've ever had!! We also watched the boys bowl with all of the lights off, the disco ball spinning, & the DJ playing our favorite songs which was pretty cool. We had to cut the fun short to pay a visit to the urgent care center with Gio because he wasn't feeeling better. Thank goodness they treated him quickly so we didn't have to spend hours waiting. Poor hubby has had to work & has been missing out on some of the fun but he's made up for it by watching scary movies with his sis every night (last night they watched The Excorcism of Emily Rose....ouuuuuiiiiii)!! So now, I'm about to get up, get dressed & make some breakfast for everyone so let's see what adventure we stumble upon today.

Happy New Years!!

2009-12-31T03:51:00.000-08:00

I'm so looking forward to 2010!! Not only because the start of a new year is so exciting, but because to me, it's always a chance to wipe the slate clean and get rid of all of the negativity from the past year. We've had a lot of obstacles in the last year. The biggest to me were the 101 hurdles we had to jump through in order to get the house we've always dreamed of. When it wasn't one thing....it was another!! I want to thank my little sis, my mother in law, & my close friends,(especially Elisonia who always knew what to say & how to cheer me up), who gave me good words of encouragment & advice to get me through such a stressful time. On the other hand of that spectrum, there's always "family drama" that I am glad I moved away from. I have grown so tired of dropping what I'm doing & taking time away from my boys to help certain people out to only have them turn around and criticize & judge others when they don't get their way (even though they know that they're the ones in the wrong). Whoever knows me & knows how easygoing I am also knows I have low tolerance for bullsh*t. lol From now on, I am there for my dad & my little sis who have always been there for me through thick & thin & have loved me unconditionally. Everyone else can solve their own problems & take their drama elsewhere!! A person can only be so nice & take so much & I've definitely passed that point. I will leave all of that baggage in the hands of God. I know that he will not abandon me when I need him the most. On a more positive note....we are all finallly happy & at peace!! Hubby is doing great at work, my job isn't the best job but I am thankful to even have one & to be able to help provide for my family. The boys are doing great in school....adjusting & making friends. Evan has especially done a lot of learning & growing during this past year. He never ceases to amaze me with the things he comes up with =) God has been very good to us & we know that everything we've accomplished is thanks to him. We are also extremely grateful that my sister in law & her family are here & not only spent Christmas with us but will be bringing in the New Year with us too!! Oh, and best of all....next week we have a surprise visit!! Actually, a surprise for the boys cause I'm already aware of whose coming & when. I'm sooooo excited....I can't wait!! Anyway, for this New Year, my resolution is to take some classes that I've been wanting to take, to be more organized (you'd know what I mean if you would've seen my messy files a few weeks ago), to love more, to stress less, and to be more patient (my main fustration at work). lol I also want to make this a great year for my boys who deserve all of the best things in life for being such great kids. To all of my family and friends....have a blessed & safe New Year and may 2010 bring you plenty of love, peace, success, good fortune, and happiness, <3