Protestacular.

Lake Powell.

2011-11-11T07:39:00.000-08:00

We took a 5 day trip to Lake Powell with some of our favorite friends. We had so much fun, ate WAY to much food, and laughed a lot! John and Brock made some attempts at some pretty stupid tricks, like the white patio-chair-on-the-disc trick, and the use-two-cooler-lids-as-water-skis trick, and many more. Surprisingly enough, non of these tricks were the reason John got a concussion. It was two wipe outs in a row while wake boarding that did that. Lots of good memories were made. It was a really great trip. We can't wait to do it all again next year, minus the concussion. We're lucky to have such great people in our lives.

Hand Binoculars. They really do help you see things that are super far away.

Jason, acting like he did something in the kitchen. The girl who did all the work is actually, seemingly attached to Jason's bicep. Cafe Rio Night. Yum.

Mark, singing Aaron Neville tunes.

Sunrise.

Mickey Mac Mike.

Mark, being awesome.

My fella.

Sha-nay-nay.

Beautiful Cami. She was a trooper.

Chef Brock, wearing his chicken wing preparatory gear. MMM and Mark, assist

The Nordstroms

The Bates

The Stephens (+Mark)

Earl: our skipper.

The Rusicks

Lounging with the ladies, and Earl.

Rainbow Bridge

John, right before he attempted his cooler lid trick.

Brock and his military-standard-issue-glasses, giving a clinic.

My personal fave. I was coming down the stairs one night and this jerk popped out and scared me. ;)

I love you, I see you.

2011-11-08T16:48:00.000-08:00

Over the last few years, John and I have really began to understand what it means to SEE your loved ones. We made a pact to tell our kids and other loved ones that we love them, more often. Letting others recognize their importance to you is overlooked way too often. Quite a long time ago, I read an article about an interview Oprah did with Poet and Author Toni Morrison. It read as follows:

"When my children used to walk in the room, when they were little, I looked at them to see if they had buckled their trousers or if their hair was combed or if their socks were up." "You think your affection and your deep love is on display because you're caring for them. It's not. When they see you, they see the critical face. But if you let your face speak what's in your heart.and let them know when they walked in the room, I was glad to see them. It's just as small as that, you see."

Toni's comments later turned to that of her children. She remembers this: "My daughter ended up dying of cancer," she says. "And the last two years [of her life], every time she would come home—whether it was from chemo or a party or the grocery store—I would always say, 'Niecy's home! Niecy's home!' And she would get so excited. ... That made a difference in my life. And now when children are in my space, it's authentic that my eyes light up, because my heart lights up. I have begun to really SEE them."

When school began, John and I took a cue from the wise Nie Nie, and had our own back to school dinner. We gave the kids each a star, and told them that we loved them, and that we see them. I cannot remember a moment, even when I chose a wrong path, or differed from their opinions, when my father and mother didn't tell me they love me. I know that they see who I am, and I am grateful. Beyond words, I'm grateful. John and I want our kids to feel that love.

Go Packers!

2011-02-06T08:34:00.000-08:00

Mom's are, in my mind, first and foremost: coaches. I mean, if i had to go to coach camp, or wherever coaches go to learn how to be coaches, I'd hope to be able to learn how to be like Vince Lombardi. How inspiring is he? I'll definitely be passing some of his words on to my kids.

Gratitude.

2011-01-13T18:04:00.000-08:00

I have learned two lessons in my life: first, there are no sufficient literary, psychological, or historical answers to human tragedy, only moral ones. Second, just as despair can come to one another only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings. ~elie wiesel~

More to come: soon.

What's A Biopsy Like?

2011-01-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

After my last post, I met with a Pulmonologist. Dr. Mojaverian. He was a great little guy, that said things like, "I really tink you are too young for the Cancers." He seemed much less alarmed than our first two doctors. This was until we began asking questions. We asked why I am so short of breath, and why I'm so tired, and in so much pain. We also wanted to know why both he and Dr. Paul Simon were both leaning towards Valley Fever if I'd never had a positive blood test for it. He answered all of our questions and reassured us that he would help us every step of the way.

Originally, he wanted us to watch the tumor, and continue getting CT Scans every two weeks so he could monitor the growth. John spoke up immediately and told him we weren't going to do that. He asked if we could just get a biopsy done, and get rid of it, whatever it is. The doctor explained that a biopsy is very painful, and very invasive, but if that is what we wanted then he would get one set up right away. I'm sitting on the examination table listening to these decisions being made, all while slightly panicking, and probably wearing my moron face. I usually make John go to my appointments with me because he's more of a fighter than I am. I probably would've just taken the CT Scan every two weeks option. John managed to get the biopsy set up before the new year (yay for that, since we had met our deductible).

Fast forward to December 30. The biopsy was scheduled for 8am. The hospital wanted us there 1 hr. early to check in and complete some paper work. We live about 40 minutes from the hospital, and had to drop the kids off at Andrea's house before we left. We needed to leave our house at about 5:45. Of course, in true John and Gina style we woke up at 5:50. We dropped the kids off and drove way to fast to get to the hospital.

We checked in right on time. I changed into my gown, got a new pair of cool yellow grippy socks (my collection is growing quickly), and met some of the nurses. They all make comments about me being too young to be there, and are in actually the sweetest nurses I've come in contact with yet. They had a motto posted on the wall. A quote by Maya Angelou that read:

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

I will always remember that. I may also remember that the whole hospital smelled like spaghetti, but that's a different story.

After some waiting, the Radiologist came in to explain the procedure. Your lungs have no pain receptors, so most of the pain comes from puncturing the skin, intercostal muscles (rib meat), and pleura. He went over breathing techniques that would help him, help me. Afterwards I was wheeled to the CT room. Lung Biopsies are not done in live time. Weird, but true. The Radiologist puts you in the scanner, checks the spot, then pulls you out and inserts the needle. First, he numbed up the area with Lidocaine and inserted the needle. He put it in very superficially, and then put me back in the scanner, left the room to check his placement, and then pulled me out and did it again. I should note that before the started, they covered my eyes with a towel. Apparently the procedure is alarming enough to watch that some people startle. Go figger. Every time he went deeper into my lung, I had to take slow shallow even breaths. You take a breath, let it out and hold it out for 10-15 seconds and then very slowly draw your next breath. I was numb enough that it was only slightly uncomfortable. The gross part was when he actually took his sample out. You feel pain, then pressure, and then hear a series of crunches that are followed by a few clicks. He slowly pulled the needle out and we were done. There was no cauterizing, no stitches, no plug. I felt like someone should have had a teeny little plug to put in the hole, but maybe that was the sedation. The sedation, by-the-way, was no more that a little (very little) Valium. They can't really sedate for lung biopsies because it affects your breathing pattern. Recovery was 4 hrs. long. Every hour they came and did a chest x-ray to make sure my lung hadn't collapsed. After the 4th x-ray came back okay, we were off.

And, now we wait. We wait to see if this tumor is Cancer, Valley Fever, a lung baby, or maybe a pea, or even my dentures. We wait to see if my family can finally become normal again. We wait and see if my husband and kids can finally stop asking me if I'm okay every time I take a deep breath, or cough. We just wait.

This whole experience has been a complete reality check. We love a little more, and complain a little less. If for nothing else, I'm grateful for that. I'll keep you updated. Cross your fingers. :)

Well,That Sucks.

2010-12-25T22:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve was a bit different for us this year. I had actually gone in for a simple follow up CT scan the day before. I have been trying to wrap up all the loose ends of my medical what-nots before the ed of the year. You know how it goes: we met our deductible and are scrambling to get everyone teeth cleaned, and check-ups done. So, I get the scan, and immediately after, the Radiologist came out and told me that the nodule looked to be bigger than my last scan. Wha? Ya don't say. I left the building, called John, and drove home in shock. John said he was calling the Doctor right away. He called me back moments later saying that the doctor would see us Christmas Eve.

You know by now, I'm sure, that I was in the hospital for almost a week from 12/2 - 12/8. The reason for the stay was Plural Effusion. We didn't know this until a week after I was released. The hospital stay was sort of a blur. After many tests, a consult with a weird Pulmonologist who bore a striking resemblance to Paul Simon, and a diagnosis of Valley Fever, I went home. I was also armed with an arsenal of medicines, all of which slowly sucked away my soul.

A week after I came home, John and I decided that we needed to get a second opinion. Paul Simon's ideas weren't sitting well with us. My Primary Care Physician (PCP) made a valid point: if I've had 5 blood tests, specifically for Valley Fever, all of which came back negative, why on earth am I still assuming that that is what I have. Der. Sounds logical enough. So, my PCP requests another CT Scan. I go in for the test Friday morning. Friday night: Handsome Doctor DeGroot requests a visit on Christmas Eve.

I'm going to add here that Mr. Second Opinion's opinion is a serious downer. He looks at John and I and says, "I don't really know how much I should say here, or where to start. It's not good. In two weeks, the "nodule" has grown 2mm, an equivalent of 20% in growth." Admittedly, after that, everything was coming at me in Charlie Brown wah-wah-wah chatter. John began asking 2 skillion questions, and I went to my happy place. The gist of what I caught was this: wah-wah-cancer....wah-wah-wah-tests...wah.

I know what your probably thinking. Man, that sucks. Yeah, it kinda does. But, little do you all know.....Cancer was on my Christmas wish list. Those are the kind of jokes that John and I began cracking when we left the doctor's office, and that is where we are now. We did eventually have a good cry that night, and now have put on our brave faces and are ready to kick this thing, whatever it is, right in the ass.

Details to come. :) In the meantime, please kindly enjoy my favorite pictures from Christmas. All of which have a special story, and place in my lil' heart.

Camping: A Great Way To Beat The Heat!

2010-09-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

At the end of August, John and I took the kids camping along with some really dear friends of ours. We had such a great time. We camped just outside of Sedona. It was so pretty. We left the oppressive 115 deg. heat of Phoenix, and found respite in the form of mid 80's temps. Perfect.

We camped in this pretty meadow.

There was a dry damn behind us. The kids played down there the entire time. They caught tadpoles and lizards. They also shot BB Guns and played Cowboys and Indians.

John. I just love him. :)

Bird.

Anna and Payton.

Dane's muddy feet. You can't go camping without walking in the mud, right?

The littlest ones banded together. Logan, Paxton, and Bird.

They had fun, and danced forever. Bird's got moves.

A lineup of the crew: Chris.

Andrea: Prepared for anything.

Jenni.

Jared.

Karla.

The Sharps: Mark and Karla

Day 2. The kids woke up bright and early. They immediately found a lizard.

The tiniest lizard I've ever seen. It was so cute.

The Bird: taking a hot dog break.

The party always has to end sometime. After we packed up all of our gear, we drove into Sedona and ate at the best burger joint ever. It was to die for. However, I forgot the name. I do remember that it was located next to the Arizona Dirt Shirt store, which was pretty cool. They dye all of their items in Arizona's rust colored dirt. Way cool.

Goodbye, Sedona. Until next time. :)

Back To School.

2010-09-26T19:49:00.000-07:00

It's official: school has started again! Anna and Dane are back to the grind. Anna is starting 5th grade, and Dane is starting 2nd grade. They have excellent teachers, and were really excited to go back. Anna actually has the same teacher that she had in 3rd grade, Mrs. Erdelji. She's honestly the best teacher any of my kids have ever had. Dane has the same teacher he had last year, Mrs. Davis. She rolled up from 1st grade, and he rolled right along with her. I think it's going to be a great school year.

I decided to have them sit in the same positions that they sat in last year.

see this post here.

This year Owen wouldn't sit in any of the pictures. He was a bit sad this year that the kids were leaving him.

They love school, and Bird and I have a lot of fun during the day while they are gone. We also really love it when they come home. :) Here's to another school year.

Dane Turns 8, and 8 Is Great!!!

2010-09-16T18:48:00.000-07:00

July 12th, we celebrated 8 wonderful years of Dane. He is such a great kid. We just love him to bits.

(I don't know what caused the candles to form a halo of lights around him, but it's very indicative of what an angel he is to us.)

We had a little get together with our close friends, the Slabaughs. We had cake and ice cream, and partied it up. We always give the kids an option at their birthday. They can either have a party with all of their friends, or we'll give them $100, which is about what we end up spending on a party anyway. I'm always glad that Dane chooses the latter. He took the money and bought tickets to the X Games. John and he went to L.A and stayed with Uncle Hop and Aunt Heather, and then spent a day watching the games. He loved it.

Payton Slabaugh: my future daughter-in-law (according to her), used her very own money and bought him a gift. M&M's. It was so stinkin' cute.

He loved the gifts he got. He got some Hot Wheels tracks....

and, Cuponk.

serious ketchup in the worx.

2010-09-03T22:03:00.001-07:00

Baby. I'm working on a serious catch-up. be prepared. it's coming. :]

Bird: Before and After.

2010-08-02T10:13:00.000-07:00

Before. Owen loves to make his "sad face," especially in pictures.

After. He asked for this cut, he really did. There was much protest from certain well-loved ones, but guess what? It'll grow back. :)

See. He's totally happy. I promise.

Blah Blah Blahg takes a backseat: IT'S SUMMERTIME!!!!

2010-07-01T06:08:00.000-07:00

I'm working on turning this blog, vis a vis, journal into a book worthy publication (idea: totally stolen from Libby). It's summertime, though! Who has time to blog during the summer? Not me, for sure. I feel like I'm home for about 10 minutes during the day, and out playing the rest of the time. This summer is flying by. We're having a ball, and taking lots of pictures. I'll blog it all later. For now, enjoy this picture of Gum. He's a hoot. This picture sums him up perfectly. I told him the other day that I just love him so much that I could eat him with a spoon. He frowned at me and said, "No eat me mom, I your friend." Awesome.

Utah: In 18 Pictures.

2010-06-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

We went to Utah last week. We stayed for about 6 days and had such a great time. It's always nice to get out of the AZ. heat, and my parents live in the prettiest valley in the state, which is a bonus. We had lots of fun hanging out with cousins, aunts, uncles, and especially grandparents. Here are a few pictures, OK, a lot of pictures of the fun we had.

We stayed with my dad and mom.

He grows these, which we love to see. Anna thinks they're (i can't believe I had "their" up here for 2 days and no one told me. GAH, i am ashamed.) awesome.

Dane and Bird did lots of this. Grandma and grandpa live close to a new skate park.

Bird is a Razor whiz. He can keep up with Dane, and is actually better than most of the older kids he rides with. It's funny to watch.

These two just like to watch and chat.

One day we did a tour of Salt Lake City. We did it the year before last, and really loved it. Basically, each pass gets you into several of SLC's best attractions. We hit the This Is The Place Monument Park. It's a huge pioneer-y attraction. The kids rode horses....

...went through the petting zoo...

...made candles...

...and lots of other fun stuff.

Next up, The Red Butte Gardens. I love going to botanical gardens, and SLC's is amazing. If you don't want to see a bunch of geeky flower shots....scroll down.

I love peonies. These were as big, if not bigger than my head. Gorgeous.

Pretty Irises.

I don't remember what these were called, but liked 'em.

This is my adorable nephew Nugget. He has freckles. Life just keeps spitting in my face, right? There is no justice in this. I specifically married Tex so that my kids would have spots. They don't. Nugget throws it in my face all the time.

Next up, the Children's Discovery Museum. The highlight for Dane was the Life Flight helicopter. It was super cool.

Nugget doing some construction work.

We had lunch at the Lion House which was delicious. These flowers were outside of the restaurant. The little white buds open up and out spill these crazy purple flowers. That eventually.......

...end up like this. BOOM! Why can't these cool flowers bloom at my house? Oh yeah, because I live on the FACE OF THE SUN!!!

We had so much fun in Utah. It's a shame that we only get to go once or twice a year. Thanks mom and dad for a very fun week. We love you guys. It's your turn to come see us now. How about August? I hear there's a baptism goin' down. :)

i turned on comments just for you beek. :)

Thursday Flare.

2010-05-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

we went waterskiing with some of our good friends. i took this shot of juan. he's cute, huh?

Birthday Catch-up.

2010-05-17T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have to say, right off the bat, I have the greatest husband. EVER! Really, he may not be perfect, but he's perfect for me. He always knows just what to say and do to make me happy. My Birthday is one week before Mother's Day, so we always combine the two. First, I had a great Birthday weekend. My sister, Pagoda, came out for the big day and hung out with me. We ate at lots of good restaurants, and had lots of good chats. It gave me a family fix that I'd been needing. On my actual Birthday I had donuts in the park for breakfast, lunch with Kate and John at The Grill here in Verrado (one of my faves), and for dinner, Tex had a BBQ Party for me. He made gigantic burgers with all my favorite fixin's. I had a great time surrounded by all my best loved ones. The best part is, I didn't lift a finger all day.

Anna at the park, with her donut. There was a triathlon that day. A bonus to watch. :)

Pagoda at the park, with her Joe. She'll kill me for posting this, but I think she looks beautiful all the time.

John, singing, Happy Birthday to yoooooooou. :)

Miss Andrea

Mr. Chris

Gig.

Beeca.

Becca, the Cupcake Queen, made my absolute favorite Lemon Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. They were........superb.

Kate bought The Bird a cake of his own since she missed his actual birthday. He was in heaven.

It was a great day. My family and friends are the best.

Bandit!

2010-05-11T22:05:00.000-07:00

So, Monday night John and I took the kids to PetSmart. Dane wanted to look at the lizards. We thought it would be a quick trip. We were right.......and wrong. Anna wandered back to Humane Society's cat display. Oh naps! She fell in love with a tiny little kitten named Dr. Pepper. We eventually were able to pry her away from the display and headed home. She cried most of the way. She was completely smitten with that kitten. When we got home, she scrambled through the house, looking for something. 15 minutes later she came to my bedroom and laid out all the money she had in the world and asked if she could go back and get the kitten. Juan and I discussed our options.

We have a stray cat that sort of adopted us. He was a great cat (please make note of the past tense there), but he was ill'n. We had decided a while back to give it over to the Humane Society. As much as we liked Hogee, he needed help. We: John, Anna, and I, agreed that we could get the kitten, but Hogee had to go. It was quite sad for Anna. She is recovering though, with her new kitten. Later that night, Anna and I headed back to PetSmart and came home with her new pal. The kitten has a mustache kinda like a evil bandit's.

Immediately my thoughts turned to the sinister Dick Dastardly. If I see this cat twirling his evil bad guy mustache, I'm changing his name.

Isn't he cute?

He's not very dastardly, but we're working on it.

Awww.

Soooo tiny.

This is the point where I turn into the weird lady who loves her cat, but seriously, he's pretty stinkin' cute.

This is like one of those bad Kmart photos where the kid looks in a mirror and the viewer sees both him, and his reflection. It's cheesy and at the same time, the perfect way to end this post.

Friday Foto.

2010-04-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

i have a deep love of lens flare. deep.

My Babies.

2010-04-24T22:25:00.000-07:00

I've been very into profile photos lately . My babies are changing, and I want to remember every detail. :)

Bird's Third, and Easter.

2010-04-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

It's true. I totally forgot to post any pictures of Owen's Birthday, or Easter for that matter. We went to a friends cabin for the weekend and Celebrated Easter, and Bird's third birthday. It was such a fun weekend. We dyed Easter Eggs and had a crazy egg hunt, too. Then we celebrated Bird's third.

Dane & Talan.

Bird.

Bird's Bi-Nan Cake.

The Owen Cup.

Styles, playing the Happy Birthday Song.

Talan, dyeing eggs.

Camryn.

Easter Eggs.

Easter Eggs, 2.

Dane'sBasket. (The Easter Bunny went monochromatic this year.)

Owen's Basket.

And finally, Anna's Basket.

We had a splendid weekend. I hope all of you did too.

Anna Turns 10!!!

2010-04-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Usually when my kids have birthdays, I get a little nostalgic for their baby days. Not with Anna. She really is such a great kid. She's sweet and smart, kind and aware, and she is so much fun to be around. I enjoy watching her grow up. Happy Birthday Cupcake!

Grandma J sent 2 "friends" to share the day with Anna.

Grandma Batch hit the nail on the head with this adorable cupcake for Anna's ever growing collection. She loves it.

She also got a Secret Password Journal (Dane has been trying to crack the code to get into it ever since she pulled it out of the box), a book about Origami, and lots of other cupcake paraphernalia, and a Jacob poster from Dane. He knew she'd love it. :)

For her party she wanted me to make suckers. We made Chocolate Mustaches, Bubblegum Buttons, Pomegranate Gnomes, and Pina Colada Owls.

We decorated the house and waited for her friends to show up.

We had cake and treats at the house and then headed over to the pool.

I spent most of the time watching my boyfriend and his trusty bird sidekick. This pose has some history. Our dear friends Nate and Julie sent out a Christmas Card and their little boy Mark was holding his hands just like this. The kids think he's just the cutest thing ever and they do this around the house all the time. It's hilarious.

Boyfriend.

pretty paxton.

2010-04-13T21:16:00.000-07:00

Pax. I got to take this adorable girls 2yr. pics. She is seriously adorable. I might just try to steal her for my own. :)

Styles can be quiet now.

2010-02-17T05:49:00.000-08:00

These are our pals, The Taylors. Talan, Jessica, Ryan, and Camryn. They're not too bad. They've been pressuring me to post these pictures since I took them. I'm not good at giving copies of the pictures that I take. Many people can vouche for that. Sorry. I'm working on it.

Jessica's Dad Bert, has a cabin in Show low. Sometimes, they invite us to go with them for a visit. They are very nice like that. This time when we went it was "winter." Real winte, not Phoenix winter. There was so much snow. My kids were in heaven. We had to drag them inside everyday. It was a lot of fun. Here are some pics.

Camryn:eating snow. It was adorable. She made that face everytime she put a piece in her mouth. Adorable.

Here is Ryan (who we call Styles,yeah, like from Teen Wolf). He took Anna down the sledding hill and he landed straight on his hip like an old man. Pretty sweet.

Here's the before picture. Pre-hip break.

Talan is a trooper. He and Dane went down the hill together and it ended poorly. They flipped and during the fall Dane rolled over Talans face and he got all cut up. Poor guy. I just like that Jessica was saying, "take a picture, take a picture."

And here is Jessica, going down the hill on a tube.

Here is my Sweet Dane.

Here is my other sweetie, Bird.

Here are all three Baci kids. They never complained about the cold. I was quite suprised.

John dug the kids a snow cave at the cabin. It was pretty seet.
Here's a pic of Anna and Talan in the cave.

We had a lot of fun with our pals at the cabin.

Random Pictures For An Impatient Pagoda.

2010-01-31T11:59:00.000-08:00

Supa-STAR!

2010-01-30T06:21:00.000-08:00

Guess who's February's

Student of the Month?

ANNA! (woot-woot!)

Her teacher nominated her for outstanding academic achievement. Anyone who knows Anna, knows that she is doing homework, and extra homework, and Algebra Club homework, and extra credit homework, ALL.THE. TIME! For a 9 yr. old she has an amazing sense of propriety. It's a little unnerving sometimes. She is 9, going on 29 in many ways. She is such a good kid, but of course, I'm biased.

She had no idea she was going to get the award. Her teacher told her at 8:00 when school started. The assembly started at 8:15. She spotted John, Bird, and I when she came into the gym, and looked like she was ready to ralph. She walked over to us and told us she was really nervous. We gave her a little pep talk and handed her an encouraging card that Grandma J had sent (sent, of course, so that it would arrive just in time for the assembly) telling her how proud she makes her, easing her butterflies and making her smile. Then she walked up to take her place on the stage.

walk, walk, walk.

The youngster with the microphone is Anna's Principal. (seriously, she's like, 17) The way she stood reminded me of someone.....

.....THIS, someone.

Oh, and this here is a picture of everyone smiling and giggling because the Principal can't pronounce Bacigalupi. Ha, real funny. What? You practiced all morning and still got it wrong? Oh, and you want everyone to have a very Bacigalupi morning? So witty.

We're so proud of our Anna. Way to go cupcake!

Know Your Angels.

2010-01-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

"At times our own light goes out, and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us."

-Albert Schweitzer-

Hurdles & Overhauls.

2009-12-18T07:05:00.000-08:00

So, Saturday morning the kids woke up at too-early-o'clock, and wanted to go for a run. ??? I know, I was thinking the same thing. They bundled themselves up and ran around the block 5 times. Afterwards, they wanted to practice jumping hurdles. They're on a track & field kick. I went out to watch, and applaud, and take pictures.

This was a very bad idea. Good thing I snapped a shot to show him afterwards.

This was a good idea, that ended badly. You can imagine what happened upon impact. Not pretty.

I like this shot because Owen obviously can't clear the hurdle, but he can run next to the and giggle the entire time. Cat was part of the audience too.

I just like this one because it has a rad seventies feel to it. I think it's the hair.

Isn't he just a cute little so-and-so? I just wanna pluck him out of this picture and smooch him.

Now: the room overhaul.

Owen and Danes room had been in a state of chaos ever since we bought this house 2 years ago. We had Owens crib and the pirate bed in there together and there really wasn't room for much else. The boys were unable to play in there room. That is not the case anymore. John finally had a free weekend and just went to town on it. He painted and took down the crib (which he posted on Craigslist, and sold in twenty minutes) and made Bird a sweet retreat under the pirate bunk. The boys love it.

We all played a game of Cranium to celebrate the open space. :)

Holiday Celebrations. Woot-Woot!

2009-12-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas Lights: In Abstract.

AKA: The Picture Taken During A Bumpy Hayride.

It just seemed so much cooler when it was abstracty & artsy.

The first celebration on the calendar was our "Hometown Holidays" celebration for the community we live in. Every year Verrado puts on a Christmas bash. There are places set up all around the Main Street Courtyard where you can roast S'mores, get hot cocoa, decorate Gingerbread Cookies, see Santa, and of course, take a hayride.

The kids love it. The community also trucks in tons and tons of snow and the kids get to throw snowballs, and feel like it's actually winter. I love that people were all bundled up in mittens and hats and thick winter coats. It was like, 60 degrees. It's just one of the many reasons we love living in Arizona.
Here is a look at one corner of the festival. That little person circled in red is my friend Jessica. She's really not a "Little Person," little person, I was merely referring to the size of the picture.

This is the totally rockin' Verrado Middle School Band. They were amazingly amazing. Never before have I heard Jingle Bells played in such a way. My heart was singing. How is it that there are always 45 kids that play the Clarinet in school bands? I swear to you if the Clarinets in that band were translated into 'Peter and The Wolf' cat terms, that cat would've weighed approximately 622 lbs. Lots of Clarinets is what I'm saying.

That beautiful cutout arch is the entryway to the snow-play areas.

Of course, Santa Claus.

NEXT.......

Anna's Xylophone Solo. I was so proud. The kids were told to dress in nice clothing. This translated into Anna speak means: Texas Tuxedo. Nothing says classy like a jean jacket with jeans. ;) She marches to the beat of her own drummer, that one.

There she is again. It was a really great performance. It lasted all of 20 minutes. REALLY great though. Dane's performance was the night before, but getting him to sing in front of lots of parents is impossible. I share his pain, and just can't force him to do it. Pictures of him and the Bird later.

A little catching up.

2009-12-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

Dane is a cowboy. A job he takes very seriously. OK, semi-seriously. I sometimes call him Dane Earp. Especially when he tips his hat at me and says, "hey little lady." Hmm, I swoon.

After he dressed in his cowboy garb, he bolted out of the house and two doors over to get his trusty sidekick. Ben-ha-mean. He played the part of the Indian.

Threatening, right?

Threatening and cute, actually.

Next: The Thanksgiving Day Feast, as recreated by Mrs. Davis' 1st grade class.

Plymouth Rock.

Dane was "Narrator #2" for this artistic fete.

Pilgrim Ben-ha-mean greeting them thar Pilgrims. It was the best play ever put on by any first grade class, EVER.

"Tell the ones you love the most...we are headed North."

2009-11-23T10:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a photo-documentation of our much overdue visit to Utah.

We went to Vernal first.

We saw this guy. I love him so much, it hurts.

He was at the Care Center with my Grandma. John, D, and I surprised him with a visit .
I took a few pictures of her, but they made me sad. I erased them. I liked this one though. Her hands still look the way they always did. My dads look just like hers.

Then we hung out with Kate. Her baby is very handsome.

The next day, we celebrated this guys 60th Birthday. Woot-Woot!!!

We bowled.
Kate helped the little guys.

They love her.

She loves them.

Dads wonderful Dutch Oven spare ribs, potatoes Au Gratin, and Birthday Cake followed.
All the grand kids lined up in a row to see if the old guy could blow out the candles.

This was the hit gift of the night. An m&m dispenser from Kate and Ethan.

I think dad liked it.

We had a good trip, and miss everyone already.

T.H's, Young Publishers Day, Perching, and more.

2009-11-12T13:02:00.001-08:00

I took some pictures of Bryce and Becca, aka, Beec and Gig, aka, The Trendy Hipsters. Things went well until Giggy backed up into a cactus. It was very funny, I mean sad. Very very sad.

Dane was my assistant. He was fired quickly. He kept trying to make cameo appearances in the frame. (Muff and D, you know you're laughing.)

Sometimes I can steal a photo of Anna that just makes me smile.

Most of them are of her avoiding the camera. Like this one.

She had to read a story that she wrote during Young Publishers Night. She was nervous, and stood like this the entire time. It was pretty funny.

This is Anna eating a bowl of cereal. All of my kids "perch" like this whenever they eat. Actually, they sit like this whenever they should be sitting.

Owens obsession with Spiderman, or, Bi-Nan, as he calls him is bordering on unhealthy. It's almost as bad as Danes Johnny Cash phase.

The Boys, Halloween, and Lomography.

2009-11-04T14:57:00.000-08:00

This blog is lame. I know it, and I accept it. It is having an identity crisis. It wants to tell funny stories and entertain you. However, it is a lazy blog. A blog that just doesn't give a crap. It is now......a picture only (and explanation of said pictures) blog, and it feels much better about itself.

On sunday, the boys were dressed up in their suits, ready for church. I couldn't resist taking their pictures. They get so tired of me always being in their faces with my camera. Oh well.

Owen

Handsome Dane

The Boys.

Halloween. I don't exactly know what Dane was, but I like that he didn't really care either. Every year I give the kids $10 each, and they can use it on whatever they want in order to make a costume. It forces them to use their imagination, and they love it. Anna was a "funky witch", Dane was a (insert whatever you'd like to call it here), and Bird eventually wore An old Spiderman costume. Sweet.

Funky Witch having Funky Enchilladas before trick-or-treating.

These are just pics of the kids that we took for fun.

Anna.

Dane

Bird

These pictures represent my new love: Lomography, or, Medium Format Photography. It is really fun to use actual film again. I found an old Multi Pinhole Diana Camera for $45, which is a complete steal, and had to get it. The jist of Lomography is that the pictures come out all vintagey and aged looking. I really love them. The camera requires 120 film which is a little hard to find, but well worth it, I think. Here is a sampling of what it can do.

Chili Peppers in Alley.

Bee on weird flower.

Pinetop.

The Right To Bear Coolness. (and the right to say cool 100x's)

2009-09-02T20:20:00.000-07:00

This is Anna. She is inherently cool. Like, cooler than any 9 year old should be.

Seriously. She's awesome.

And guess what she got this week?

Braces!!!

Ahhhhhh. Ms. Cool just got even cooler.

Sweet (and cool)!

For My Dad.

2009-08-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

I talked to my dad about .5 seconds ago and he needed a kid fix. The kids and I have been really busy with school, Bird's various therapies, and friends, and the blog has been neglected. Here are some pictures to tide you over Big D. (Have I ever told any of you how much I adore my sweet daddy-o?)

I woke up saturday morning and found these cuties all snuggled up, watching a movie. It reminded me why I love being a mommy and wife so much.

First Day Of School.

2009-08-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

The time has come. The kids have refilled their pencil boxes with new pencils (pens for Anna, she's in the big time now), and fresh pink erasers. They were up early with anticipation for the first day of school, which was today. Anna is starting 4th grade (AHHH) with Mrs. Wass. John and I were trying to convince her to go into her class today and ask her teacher "Wass-up, yo?" but she refused. Always the perfect student.

Miss Cooly-Cool.

Dane is starting 1st grade with Mrs. Davis. He was beyond happy that his best friends Ben and Derek are in his class. He said to us this morning, "Mom and dad, I'm excited to go to school....I'm never excited to go to school." Bless him.

I couldn't get a decent close-up of Dane. This one is cute though.

Sweet Aunt Beek and Uncle Gig came over last night for a dinner and Beek graciously cut their hair for back to school purposes. They love their cool new do's and they're new school duds. They are definately ready for a year of fun.

The Bird wanted in on the action. (Three more years for you Mr.)

John and his Kewpie Doll Crew chose to go au natural....with stylin' hats of course.

"What's an inchworm?"........"It's a woooooooorm, that's only an inch."

2009-07-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

The kids found an inchworm. They played with it for at least 2 hours and then safely put it back on the bush they found it. I, of course, had to photo-document the entire thing. First the inchworm made me think of the Wonder Pets. They saved an inchworm once. Next, the inchworm made me think of my friend Jenny. She moved far far away, which isn't cool. Then the inchworm made me sad and lonely for my friend. I felt sorry for myself for a few minutes, but I snapped out of it when I remembered that she would be back for a short visit at summer's end. Then I then felt a little panicky. I'm plant sitting for Jenny. I'm pretty sure she knew what would happen to the plants when she left them with me. I'm a plant serial killer. I can't keep hope alive, let alone a plant. In fact, out of the five plants that I'm looking after, one remains. After that thought tangent, I felt worried. I then turned my focus back to the inchworm, trying to forget the plants. :)

You've got a little somethin' on your face.

2009-06-28T16:14:00.000-07:00

My mom made a comment the other day about my kids never having a clean face. Jenny has made this comment too. She told me my kids were too cute to always have food face. I mentioned this to Anna who promptly said, "We're kids, we don't care." Touche Anna, touche. Here are two very adorable examples of the aforementioned messy faces. The boys were outside enjoying, thoroughly, a slice of Johns chocolate fathers day cake.

Not too bad, right?

Admittedly, Owen looks worse. C'mon, he's 2.

Anna always has food on her face while she eats, but she's smart enough to duck away from the camera when she does.

My niece Mimi came to visit this week. Anna adores her. She usually comes for one week each summer. I always take a picture like this one when she does. It's cool to see how much they're growing. They were sisters in another life.

We love to have her come and visit, but hate it when she has to go.

Private Is Not A Bad Word, Although Whilst Growing Up, I Totally Thought It Was.

2009-06-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

I decided to make my blog private. I feel like the kids and I are living our lives at a racers pace between swim meets, play dates, doctors appt.'s and various Owie therapies. That being said, blogging just seems to have become more of a burden than a joy. It quickly turned from a blog into a BLAHg. Soooo. Now I can just post cool pics and let you know what the kids are up to. Phew. I feel better already. Here are some pictures to start out with.

Love you all,

Our Pomegranates are growing. Mmmmm.

The Bougainvilleas too.

I'm going to try and get more Owie face pictures. He's pulling some really funny ones lately.

He LOVES to wear my heels around the house, which secretly makes me really happy, and not so secretly makes John annoyed.

I have a hard time getting pictures of Anna, and when I do, she's usually running.

I know those last three pictures suck, but they were too cute not to share. I'm working on manual mode, which is tricky for me.

Wicked Crazy Memorial Day Party!!!!

2009-05-30T10:58:00.000-07:00

We had a great Memorial Day with the Trendy Hipsters who, subsequently, are two of my favorite people to hang out with. Bryce-icle's parents were out of town and we used their house as our party pad. We BBQ'd, swam and played the day away. We had a great day.

Dane loved swinging on the bar swing and jumping onto the trampoline.

Anna loved the Monkey Bars, of course.

And Owee loved climbing onto the trampoline and swinging to the ground on the rings.

We had a hard time getting the kids to leave. Bryce's parents have an awesome backyard.

These two are related.

We took this picture for Mr. Jeremy. We would have had even more fun if the Crowleys could have somehow teleported there.

Becca and Bryce are my favorite people, after my kids, to take pictures of.

Even when one of them has the mange.

I mean, c'mon. They're adorable.

Love these two.

Friday Fill-In.

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

And...here we go!

1. If we had no winter , where would we put all our discontent?

2. I am never in a state of perpetual astonishment.

3. If I had my life to live over, I'd start at the part where I met my Love. Everything before that was just filler stuff.

4. Love and I call each other on the phone 6 skillion times inside of four and twenty hours ....just because.

5. If you've never been thrilled ...you're lame. C'mon, who hasn't been thrilled?

6. To be interested in the changing seasons you have to experience all 4. In Arizona we only have Summer, and Mild Summer.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting a pedicure with Anna. tomorrow my plans include sitting by the pool and Sunday, I want to just relax with my fam.

I haven't been bloggin much lately, I know. It's been so nice outside lately, and I've been spending more time outside enjoying these:

Goin' To Utah With An Achin' In My Heart.

2009-04-28T16:43:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures to satitate my hungry-as-a-pack-a-wolves mother of her ravenous grandchild hunger.

1. Anna, International Girl of Mystery.

2. No. I don't make her wear socks mom. I can hear you cringe in disgust from here. Can you hear my diabolical laugh from here? Mwah-ha-ha!

3. Dane. Playing in the yard 10 minutes before we will be 1 hour late to church.

4. Yes. I allow Dane to wear pants that are 2 sizes too small to church. I figure that since he has boots on, and you can't see his ankles, I'm cancelling out any faux pas. Right?

5. Owen, doing a bit of gardening. Yes, I know he's holding scissors. Yes, I know Oleander is poisonous. Don't worry mom, we only eat it once or twice a week.

6. See, he's perfectly fine.

Where Do We Go From Here?

2009-04-22T18:02:00.000-07:00

So, 2 weeks after Mr. Owen The Bird turned 2, Anna turned 9. My life is becoming the proverbial "flash in the pan."

How has she gone from this:

To this:

I'm giving up on the idea of pickling this one. Her babysitting skills will be needed in a couple of years. Not only that, she's kinda turning into my little friend. We have fun together. Not like, mom taking her kid to the park fun, but pal-ee type fun. It's nice to have someone to go to dinner and a movie with on the fly. She's always up for a shopping trip, and she likes to sit on the porch with me and chat. She is just the best. John and I are completely smitten with our lil' miss. Happy 9th Birthday Mooshi!!!!

Mr. The Bird Turns 2.

2009-04-12T16:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. The Bird,

You are growing up too fast, and NO SIR, I do not approve! I have anxiety attacks about you growing up. It's a mental hurdle I must get over. I suspect that most of this is because your dad is going to make me seek gainful employment when you head off to school. Lame, I know. He obviously doesn't remember my retirement party 9 years ago. Alas, I digress. I enjoy watching you grow and learn new things. I'd just appreciate it if you could do me a solid, and slow it down a touch. I know that you prefer your dad hands down to me, but I promise to make it up to you later.

By-the way......people who boss other people into laborious situations they disapprove of are often paid back by public taunting.

To Be Filed Under: Kid Pickling Gone Terribly Wrong! Vol. 1 - Dane.

2009-03-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

I love to watch my kids grow, I really do. They're just doing it just a little too quickly. I took some pictures of Dane a few days ago. When I looked at them for the first time today, I was stunned. His baby face is gone. My kid pickling potion isn't working. BOOOOO!

Dane has always been my barnacle baby. He and I are symbionts. I need him. He needs me. See, He is both gentle and stubborn. He is kind with a dash of fire. So similar to Love.

On the day that Dane was born I experienced something profound. I didn't, though I love them entirely, feel it with my other kids. I shared different things with them. On the day my Dane was born, he and I were instantly bound at the heart. The first time I held Dane, I fell completely in love with John allover again. I looked at Dane and was filled with love for him, of course, but even more so for John. That room was completely full of love. It was amazing. It was such a perfect birth. Very calm and peaceful. He was gentle and loving from the very moment we met him. Dane has held a special part of my heart ever since.

When I look at pictures of Dane now, and pictures of him as a babe, it's unsettling. How long will he crawl into bed with me in the morning? How many more times will he ask if he can skip school because when he goes, he misses me too much. When will he stop calling himself my boyfriend? When will he choose playing with his friends over reading books with me? Not long I suspect, and much too soon. I better get my pickling recipe perfected quickly.

Friday Fill-In......With Julie In Mind! (Ooooh Baby, Baby....B-B-B-Baby)

2009-03-13T22:29:00.000-07:00

And...here we go!

1. When I look to the left, I see Mr. The Bird.

2. Any room where I'm looking at John, is the room that has the best view in my home.

3. Let it work , or get rid of it!!!!! We're very Utilitarian around here.

4. Dirty Deeds, done dirt cheap! (duh).

5. Encouraging one another is a responsibility that all qualified citizens must share.

6. If you have any footed cake stands feel free to send them my way. They're my current obsession.

7. And as for the weekend, I'm looking forward to working in the garden with Mr. The Dane. Tomorrow my plans include hanging out with the P. Lauren & Gregor, and Sunday, I want to go to church....it's been a while.

Anna's angry bedhead.

My Mr. The Dane.

Owen has developed a taste for Red Bell Peppers????

Passive Agressive Detours

2009-02-26T11:24:00.000-08:00

Today's blog, folks, will showcase 1 of my many faults, and 1 of Love's daily reactions to said, fault.

Ever since I was a young lass, I've collected piles of things. I'm not a hoarder, but a habitual non-put-awayer. At the end of the week my mom would come into my room and say "Gina, we're out of cups." This was my cue to gather up the 6 or so cups of half full (see what I did there????) water, and take them to the dishwasher.

Ever since Love was a lad (from what his sibs tell me and from what I can only imagine), he has had a slight problem with patience. He is slow to think and quick to react, if you will. I won't delve into the specifics. If you know him, you know what I'm talking about.

Apparently my stashin'-n-dashin' has taken a toll. I guess a man can only take so much quirk. See, folks, lately Big J has taken to posting passive aggressive notes all about the house for me.

Let's explore....

Exhibit A: The one where John leaves a passive aggressive note for me from[the couch]. Charming, right?

Exhibit B: The one I found on my phone. Quite bitter. The tone of impatience is escalating. Don't you agree?

...and finally Exhibit C: The one I found on the wall in the bathroom next to the toilet. Pushin' it a bit too far if you ask me. Let him have three babies and drink 10 glasses of water a day. We'll see how often he needs to go.

This week I will try and make a concerted effort to put my things away. My pal Jenny taught me her "touch it once" rule. Put things away where they go the first time you touch something instead of moving them around from place to place. Like, if you pick a toy up off the floor, don't just set in your kids room, put it in the proper place. Novel, don't you think? All of these notes have made me wonder. What do you do that drives your spouse nuts? Am I the only one who drives their husband to be a hot head? (this is Love wearing the fire hair from Danes Human Torch costume.) :)

**P.S**
I absolutely love getting these funny notes from John. I love having him us passive aggression to lovingly remind me to put my things away. These notes always make me laugh. I have hoards of notes from John, both P.A, and lovingly romantic. He is such a great guy.

Friday Fill-In, Inspired by Ms. Booshay, and Sweet Abby.

2009-02-20T15:19:00.000-08:00

1. Give me a diet coke and I'll be on my way.

2. Whenever I leave the house, I take my camera.

3. I wish living closer to my sisters didn't mean living in Utah.

4. Grazie's Panna Cotta was the last thing I ate that was utterly delicious.

5. To live in this world you have to wear blinders, and have a good sense of humor.

6. Other than this one, Sweet, Sweet Abby's is the last blog I commented on.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to getting drunk on Theraflu,and going to bed at 6-ish. Tomorrow my plans include Coach Jeff, Miss Christie, and some BBQ, and Sunday, I want to go to church, it's been a while.

Bird Is The Word.

2009-02-09T12:49:00.000-08:00

People always ask me why we call Owen, The Bird. Please, allow me to shed some light on the subject, and help you to see the forest for the trees. See, when Owen is happy, sad, angry, punchy, what have you, he chirps. Maybe chirp isn't the right word. Let me see. How can I best describe it to you. Let you imaginations walk with me for a second. Imagine you're a mouse happily scurrying through a field of hay bails. Suddenly, out of nowhere, you spot a huge bird. Let's say it's not just a huge bird, but a huge bird of prey (which reminds me of Tanner). Let's say that said bird of prey is a....Falcon. Yes, that works. You crane your little mouse neck towards the sky and notice that your foe is about to swoop. Your heart begins to beat at a hummingbirds pace. You're now running as fast as your little mouse legs can carry you. Then, you hear it: an unmistakable,formidable, "I'm toast," screech. That bird is going to swoop down and send you to little mouse heaven, and it sounds a little something like this:

Friday Fill-In

2009-02-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

I love these.

1. Please don't tell .....my kids I'm not as great as they think I am.

2. Can you......give me a break....in the morning?

3. The color.....Turquoise....makes me want to.....smile.

4. I have a craving for....... something containing vinegar.

5. If my life had a pause button, I'd pause it ............on the day Dane was born. That day changed my life.

6. Eyes are the .........thing to go for, with your thumbs, if you are ever being attacked.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to.......babysitting group at my house......, tomorrow my plans include......hangin' with Love all day long,.......and Sunday, I want to have the Trendy Hipsters over for dinner!

The Face of a Budding Stuntman.

2009-02-03T07:53:00.000-08:00

As the mother of three stunt-monkeys, I have lost my cringe reflex. That being said, when John took Anna and Dane swimming last Saturday, and came home with a hobbling Dane, I didn't exactly stop vacuuming. He tried to execute a graceful dive and didn't jump out quite far enough. He hit the top of his foot on his the side of the pool. He was not happy. John & Dane got dressed quickly and went to a Monster Truck Rally that Dane had been looking forward to. I figured if he was well enough to go, he was fine. Fast forward to 11:30pm. Here is a breakdown of the night. Dane takes off his shoe. His foot swells to the size of a grapefruit. I take him to the ER. He'd broken 2 Metatarsal bones. He may need a surgery. I am a bad mom. My mom threatens to come and take him from me. I realize that he'd probably like that and I vow to do better. He wears a temporary splint through the weekend and we pay a visit to an Orthopedist on Monday. He confirms the breaks and says surgery isn't needed. Phew! Dane chooses a cast in Cardinal Red, hoping for a Super Bowl win. :( He is issued the smallest pair of Tiny Tim crutches I've ever seen. When he goes back to school the next day, he is hailed as a hero, and given more attention that he can handle. I guess even a Stunt-Monkey needs a little glory.

In other news:

I also have to give props to John. He did some pretty amazing stunts in the Monster Truck Rally. Go Tex!!!

"Phone my family, tell them I'm lost on the sidewalk, and no, it's not ok."

2009-01-23T10:12:00.000-08:00

Last night we ate Chinese food. I got to the table a little late. The result of my tardiness was disheartening. The vultures had picked away all the meat. When I sat down I was left with only the bones, or in this case, the rice and carrots. I guess the late bird of prey gets the scraps. I ate alone. When I finished I began cleaning up. Like always, when I'm cleaning, Dane and Owen assumed their positions on either side of me. They follow me everywhere. Bless them. Anyway, as I cleaned, I pondered vultures and rice and the many other fancy things in my life. In my labors I came across one lone fortune cookie. It was stale and kinda chewy. I ate it anyway. The fortune inside was profound.

This left me thinking. Which is which?

"Please don't dominate the rap, jack, if you've got nothing new to say."

2008-12-30T17:32:00.000-08:00

Being a mother is nothing, if not a comparative science. Once at our prior house, Anna went through a jump-out-at-people-and-scare-the-crap-out-of-them phase. She scared everyone in the house several times by jumping out of empty boxes and popping out from behind doors on a daily basis. One day she caught me while I was coming out of my bedroom. She jumped out at me as I walked into the next room and ended up with a less than desirable result. I punched her. I felt terrible and she felt an intense throbbing in her chest. After she stopped crying and I stopped sweating, we laughed forever about it. She never scared any member of our household again. One thing I love about Anna is that she is a quick learner. I imagine that she had a conversation with herself that went something like this: Self, don't scare people. The fight or flight response is a force you don't want to reckon with. Scare people, get your clock cleaned, no thanks. End of story.

Jump to the present day. Dane is, to my dismay, obsessed with scaring people. After my near TKO with Anna, I have been extra cautious around here. I have tried to stay aware of his presence at all times. Yesterday Dane went outside to grab something. I only let him out of my sight for a minute or two. I was cooking dinner when he walked in (you have to know where this is going). I went to wash my hands in the sink. When I turned, he was at my side, and screamed boo at me. I couldn't control myself. I threw my arm out and clotheslined the little guy. Again, I felt terrible. It was not a soft blow. He fell down and started laughing hysterically. He took it much better than Anna did. I think the difference with Anna and Dane in these situations will be that Dane won't have the same conversation with himself that Anna did. His will probably run a little more closely to this: Self, WHOA!!!! That was awesome. Where can I hide next.

I hope this guy doesn't go through the same phase, but somehow, I know he probably will.

Just a last thought. Have I ever told you how much John and My mom Mercy LOVE each other. It's a beautiful bond. Really.

"No, no, please don't go, we'll eat you up WE LOVE YOU SO!"

2008-12-20T20:20:00.000-08:00

Today Dane said the funniest thing I've heard all week. He, Anna, and myself were watching "Fiddler On The Roof." We had been watching for about an hour when Dane turned to me and said, "hey mom, you know what's super awesome about being Jewish?" No, I said, what? He answered with such sincerity, "everyone that's Jewish has a harmonica." A harmonica, I said? What do you mean? He proceeded to tell me that Michael in his Kindergarten class is Jewish, and that he's super lucky because he has a harmonica and gets presents everyday for 8 days. I tried so hard not to laugh, and I didn't have the heart to tell him that Harmonica is actually Hanukkah I love my Dane-Dane. He's an awesome boyfriend.

"...But it don't snow here, it stays pretty green."

2008-12-15T09:30:00.000-08:00

Todays headline news is as follows:

"Blame Pie, v.2; The Outdoors Version."

-or-

"Exposed: SMALL CHILDREN USE BACKYARD AS TRASH CAN!!!! Prosecutors to seek harshest penalties possible. Judge likely to throw the books at the perps. Several big, heavy, thick books. "

Local authorities were called on to investigate allegations made by a wonderful, doting, loving mother of 3 early sunday morning. The mother Mrs. Gina Bacigalupi claims that her children are using her front AND back yards as trash cans. She can't stand it any longer and has decided to press charges. The 3 children in question are; Anna Olivia Bacigalupi, age 8; Dane John Bacigalupi, age 6, & Owen The Bird Bacigalupi, 1. It should be noted that although implicated by the oldest two children, The Bird is not a suspect,nor has he been formally charged in any of the following crimes against motherhood. The following photos were submitted by Mrs. Bacigalupi as evidence.

Exhibit A: Fruit Snack wrapper found

in the ground cover plants, (front yard).

Exhibit B: Chick-Fil-A Mayonnaise wrapper, and maybe a cigarette butt (???)

(front yard, p2)

Exhibit C: Ramen Noodle flavor packet wrapper (again???)
(back side yard)
And finally, Exhibit D: NutriGrain Bar wrapper. (the shoes show evidence of Child 1's work)

(back yard, next to trampoline)

Police are investigating these allegations and hope to formally charge the perps in the next few days. The police also wanted these careless children to know that Santa is not happy with them. Not happy at all.

Again, remember that The Bird is/has in no way been linked to these atrocities other than by here-say from the older Bacigalupi children. Mrs Bacigalupi suspects he is being used as a scape goat. (How can you deny this face....)

.....or this face for that matter?

"With your feet in the air, and your head in the ground."

2008-12-03T19:07:00.000-08:00

(I know that the titles of these blogs make no sense to 99.9% of you. The .01% person I write them for is playing name-that-tune with me. Pay them no attention.) ;)

And now, the moment you've all been waiting for. The pictures from the Coldplay Concert. I know, I know, you've been waiting on pins and needles for them. Well my friends, wait no longer. Here they are. If you ever get the chance to see Coldplay preform live......DO IT! It's amazing. I swear to you, when they started playing, the heavens opened up, light descended all upons (that's for you Amber), and swallowed me whole. It was that good. Here are a few pics.

When they play "Lovers In Japan" They drop millions of paper butterflies from the ceiling.

They have huge screens everywhere so everyone has a good seat. We were really close though.

The band went out into the audience a few times to play numbers by the people who were farther away. I love that they do that.

I went with my sister Kate. (That's her up there, acting natural. ) We had lots of fun. Whilst I was there we went shopping at a few of my favorite stores, namely Hip & Humble. LOVE THAT PLACE!!! We also ate at lots of local eateries (Paris was a fave), and we saw an indie movie, which I really miss doing. I hate that here in AZ. there aren't more independant theaters around. I asked John for one for Xmas. We'll see how that pans out. Hopefully it's not like last year when I asked for a hedgehog. He totally didn't deliver. Pfft.

"While we're on the subject, could we change the subject now?"

2008-11-18T18:43:00.000-08:00

Ok, so some people (who shall remain nameless) want me to post something on this here blog, like, everyday. They apparently think that I have more of a life than I really do. I hate to disappoint, but lately my life has been desperately tame. Just a few things of interest:

Owen (pictured above in sassier times) has been on an insane, nearly two week bender. He has been a sad, lethargic, lump of for nearly 13 days. Ahh, the joy of children. See, the past two weeks whilst being Owens personal nest, I've had a lot of time to reflect and ponder. Just kidding. I've had lots of time to watch TV and do, well, not much else. Don't get me wrong. I love to cuddle with my fledgling, but a woman can only watch so many episodes of Bindi The Jungles High Priestess, or whatever that clever little show is called, before a mental snapping takes place. I've had a little too much mellowing out. In short, I need a vacation from my couch-attached-to-rump/flu-bender/Jungle Priestess/13 day sitting fest. And lucky me, just such a vacation has presented itself. Actually, it's been planned for months, but I can imagine that it's some neat reward for nursing The Bird back to health, right?

In two days, I'm headed to Utah. I'm going to attend a sure-to-be wicked awesome Coldplay concert, in which my little sister procured a pair of super wicked awesome seats. I'm also going to dork out and go to a midnight showing of Twilight with my older sister. I'm going to do things like bug Kate, bug Bogee, sleep-in, and use the bathroom without having notes slipped under the door that say things like, "Mom, can I have a Capri-Sun," and "i just kicked my ball into the neighbors yard (for the skillionth time today)." I feel my spirits picking up already.

Again, don't get me wrong. I'll miss the kids, but I need a break. Don't we all just need a break sometimes. Now, if only Love could come with me, I'd be a happy camper. However, I think that all those minutes we'd spend talking might make him combust. Plus, he has to stay here in AZ. and work. He just picked up a SWEEEEET modeling gig.

Oh hilarious husband induced punnery, I know thee well. I know thee very well.

"We could not talk or talk forever and still find things to not talk about."

2008-11-07T07:34:00.000-08:00

Did you know that the average amount of time a married couple speaks to one another each day is just twelve minutes? When I first read this, (I'm reading one of those new-age-feel-goodery books) I was shocked. There is just no way that John and I talk so little to one another. Right? With this thought swimming around in my brain, and my analytical inner me dying for something new to do, I began an experiment. For three days I'd track this nonsense and prove this book wrong. The results were as follows:

Day 1- John and I talk on the phone 3 times today. Both calls total approx. 2 min. and consist of questions such as, "Where did you put my keys last night when you told me to move them, or I'd lose them again?" and, "Did you put money in Annas backpack today for her field trip?" Later, John came home and immediately went out for a quick bike ride before the kids went to bed. I went to bed early because I had a headache.

Total time spent talking on Day 1 = 17 min.

Day 2- John is working with El Jefe today and is not answering calls. He comes home at 5pm. I tell him I need to go to the grocery store and pick up a few things, sans kids. Shopping takes a little longer than I'd planned on. When I come home Johns already in bed. He had a long day.

Total time spent talking on Day 2 = 9 min. (mostly in passing)

Day 3- I spoke with John once on the phone about what he had planned for the night. I was going to a movie with a friend, and he had "ping-pong night." He takes the kids with him. His ping pong destroyer, I mean friend, has kids the same ages as ours. I get home a little late and he's already gotten the kids in bed. We then proceed to watch Nova. Black Hole Theory absolutely cannot wait until tomorrow. We must watch now. We go to bed immediately after.

Total time spent talking on Day 3 = 15 min.

I cannot believe my eyes the next day when I look over the notes I made on the experiment. How is this possible. How can a relationship thrive on just 12 minutes a day? I think of all the things we had put before spending time with each other in the last three days. TV, time with friends, grocery shopping, ping pong, and bike riding? Really? I wonder to myself that if this all ended tomorrow, if something happened to John, or myself, and we weren't here for one another after today, would it have been enough? Some parts of me think yes, more parts think no. I vowed that day that I wouldn't let us become the couple that the feel-goodery book describes. I love him too much to waste a single minute of my spare time with him. I just love him too much.

That night after the experiment ends, when John comes home from work, we eat dinner, put the kids to bed, and play scrabble. All parties are happy. He asks me what I did that day. I give him the run-down. A few minutes pass. He asks me if I'm going to ask him about his day. I told him I already know what he did that day. He was congratulating the new pres., it was allover the web.

"....But in the unlikely story that is America, there has never been anything false about hope."

2008-11-04T12:29:00.000-08:00

"Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost." John Quincy Adams

I remember very well something my mom told me when I was a High School Senior. See, my mom is Mexican, and my dad is, well, my dad isn't. I grew up in a small town, and had a few teachers that taught with a small town mentality. One such teacher made a joke once about Mexicans. I was very offended, but said nothing. Later that day, I went home and told my mom and dad what happened. My mom then told me something, I'll never forget it, "Never let anyone make you feel like you don't matter" she said. "Always stand up for what you believe, even if no one else will stand up with you." She probably doesn't remember that, but I do.

Someone told Love a few days ago that neither his, nor my vote mattered because the state we're voting in is going to be a Red State. This person doesn't know me very well I guess. They don't know that my vote isn't based on the ideals of any establishment, nor was it swayed by some rambling spam email. I didn't see someone holding a sign up and think, hey, yeah, I'll vote for that guy. I considered all the issues and, in my mind, cast an educated vote. I guess the person who told Love that our votes don't matter, doesn't understand that they actually do. They matter to us.

Guess That Push Has Come To This, So I Guess This Must Be Shove...or.....I've been tagged by Andrea, and have written her a 5,7,5.

2008-11-02T17:48:00.000-08:00

I love Andrea

I'll answer a tag from her

She's the cat's p.j's

(I've come out of my flu induced coma to write this entry. After which I will crawl back into bed and die.)

SO........ I've been tagged by Andrea. I love Andrea like a duck loves water. I will respond to a tag for her and her alone. The tag goes like this: open your picture files. Open the 4th picture from the fourth file and e'splain. Here you go Miss Andrea.

This is a picture of My Boyfriend. Halloween 2005. He was 3 years old. I love this picture because he is so happy. He was at Grandma J's, in his favorite Jammies. He still talks about that pumpkin. My kids all love it. I also adore this pic because Dane is wearing his beloved Uggs. Probably the best money I ever spent on him. He wore them 24 hrs. a day. I wish I could go back to this day and give him a tight squeeze and a smooch. I love that boyfriend of mine.

The Littlest Birds Sing The Prettiest Songs.

2008-10-19T21:12:00.000-07:00

Let's go bird watching, shall we? I've recently discovered signs of a much sought after, and highly desired rare bird. This bird is hard to spot, but if we proceed with caution, I believe we'll have some luck. Get your binoculars ready. Ah, yes, here is the specimen now.

Wonderful, we're seeing the species in it's element. This Bird is extremely well known for displaying a very beguiling pout. It uses said pout to lure unsuspecting Bird Watchers into picking it up. The tricky thing about this tactic is that when you attempt to set the Bird back down, it will display the pout again. It's a vicious cycle, and very hard to get out of. See the following picture.

This person took the bait and picked up the specimen. He ended up holding it for hours. Complaining all the while. Wait, what's this. Oh, excellent. Look what the specimen is doing now......great.

What we see here is that while this type of Bird loves to be held, it also loves independent sessions of play. It seems to be able to achieve elevated levels of happiness during such sessions by wearing cowboy hats. This is a very rare sighting, indeed. Please take note. We only have a few more moments to discuss this species. It has long been know to take three naps a day. Since most of the Birds time is spent sleeping, let's press on with the observation, and see as much activity as we can. Hmmm. Let's see what we have here.

Ah, yes. Another elemental picture. We have here, the Bird with it's beloved Blanket. See, when the specimen is holding a blanket, we must recognize that nap time is eminent. This indicates that our bird watching, sadly, must come to an end. The bird must be returned to it's nest to roost.

Oh, just a minute. What do we have here now. Ah, the bird has a final trick to display. Above, the Bird is displaying sign language. This is very rare, even for this particular species. The sign being displayed......wait.....let me get my binoculars. It's hard to decipher. I think...no, I'm certain that is the sign for MORE. The Bird obviously wants you to come back for more sometime soon. We hope you enjoyed your tour. Please submit all comments in the appropriated box before leaving. We appreciate your patronage.

Maybe next time we'll see the bird around it's favorite flowers........

"Call For Reinforcements," she said "There's Too Much Here For Me To Love."

2008-10-11T17:35:00.000-07:00

When you're a kid your life sort of revolves around all calendar dates that may yield presentry. Birthdays being at the top of the list. For instance, I remember turning 6 and having a big bash at my house. My friend Ryan Davis gave me a pink pencil case with these awesome rainbow colored beads allover it. My mom and dad gave me a new bike (which in reality was my sisters old bike with a fresh spray paint job, new seat, and new flowery basket). The Party itself was perfect. There was a pinata, and lots of dancing around the Hi-Fi Stereo. It was my first truly excellent birthday celebration. I remember no parties before, or after it. It was that good. I was actually planning on having a big Suprise Party for John, but he's lost his party mojo the last few months and is just not feelin' it this year, so I put it on hold. Instead, I'll just post a picture of him in this years halloween costume because that is one thing he's super excited about. He's so pumped about being one of his personal heros this year. Like, really excited. I told him to lay off on the body bronzer but he was all, "in times like these G, more is better." Interesting. You be the judge.

Happy Birfday Tex. With all my heart, I love you (and your rockin' tanned bod)!

**ammendment** In response to a comment (eh-hmm), I forgot that Chuck Norris is a Republican, therefore I MUST make it clear that Johns hero is Walker Texas Ranger, Not Chuck Norris the McCain/Total Body Machine peddling Old Guy. My bad.

*As a sidenote; I know that lots of people hate blogs with music embedded into them. Despite that fact, I am posting the first song that John and I danced to at our wedding. I'm doing it to make John swoon, and also for your listening pleasure (or as my dad would say "play-zure"). Hopefully it will make you smile as much as it does us.

The universe is wider than our views of it. - H.D Thoreau -

2008-10-06T06:31:00.000-07:00

"warm summer sun, shine kindly here;
warm southern wind, blow softly here;
green sod above, lie light, lie light."

mark twain -

Biking Is Love's Reprieve.

2008-09-27T22:07:00.000-07:00

For the most part, my typical interaction with Love and his fave hobby goes something like this:

Love: Hey, G. I'm going to go to for a ride [on my bike].

Me: Bye. Don't crash.

End Scene.

However, today he brought home this......

...and brought it to another level. See, I could buy a small Honda for the price of this bike. However, Love never buys anything for himself, and I'd never tell him he couldn't. This is just one of those times in a wifes career where you bite your lip, smile, and say "cool. Rock on wicha bad self." If biking is his thing, so be it. I mean, everybody needs to have their thing, right? I just look at that seat and wonder what the high is. See, that seat. That's a choice! I remember taking a spin class once and feeling like the wrong end of a dog for several days afterward. I can't see why you'd want that, but whatever. Choose ye this day to bust your onions on a bike. I ain't gonna stop ya.

Love Does A Tri.

2008-09-22T20:43:00.000-07:00

There are, as I've said numerous times before, many differences between John and I. The first and probably the most painfully obvious, is that my brain is about 6 and 1/2 times more powerful than his. Just kidding. The real and tragic truth is that John is a physical fitness fanatic, and I am 100% not. Sure, I'll go to the gym and put in my time, but I've never wanted to go out and run a race. I've never thought to myself, "self, you should run a marathon or compete in a triathlon. You could totally kick some butt." It's just not who I am. I am, however, a great cheerleader and I am very proud of Love and the fact that he can put his mind to something, work his tail off, and achieve it. He's not the type of person who says 1 million times that he'd like to do something and then never do it. He doesn't have ten thousand things that he'd love to do. He has 4 or 5 things he wants to accomplish, and believe you me friendo, he'll do it. He's an animal, but I digress.

The real reason for this post is that Love finished his first triathlon this past weekend. He's done several races, but never the full deal. He's been working on his swim for the past few months and decided that he was ready to take a shot at it. He did a fantastic job. He placed 6th out of 29 entrants in his age bracket. I'm just so proud of him that I could just bust a button. The kids thought their dad was a hero when he crossed the finish line, and I did too. WAY TO GO TEX!!!!!

Say What? Part II

2008-09-12T15:07:00.000-07:00

Me: Dane-Dane you need to hop in the tub buddy.

Dane: No I don't mom. I'm already clean.

Me: How is that possible? You are covered in dirt.

Dane: No, I'm serious. I just held Owen and he rubbed his clean allover me.

Me: Hmmm. What can I say to that? I think thats a little different than taking a bath. (trying to hold in a big laugh).

Dane: You can just say, "Hey Dane you're clean, go put on your jim jam jimmy-jams & go to bed."

He says the cutest things. He is at that stage where everything he wants to do is 50% driven by imagination. He thinks of the funniest ways to solve his dilemas. Last week we had this conversation.

Me: Dane you're getting so big, STOP IT!

Dane: I can't mom. That's just what I do.

Me: I know but I don't have to like it. You are my boyfriend and you are going to get bigger and bigger and you won't want to be my boyfriend anymore.

.......two minute pause.......

Dane: I have an idea mom. I can put a big rock on myt head and leave it there forever. Then I won't be able to grow up anymore. (HUGE SMILE) What do ya think about that?

Me: I think that's a perfect idea.

I love my baby-guy.

I Wish I Were A Graviton.

2008-09-08T08:57:00.000-07:00

My BFF Lar sent this to me. I was laughing my arse off throughout the entire thing. I loved it. I immediately wanted to post it so that all my friends could share the love. However, after I began writing, I had to wonder. What makes me a bigger dork? The fact that Lar sent it to me knowing I, a lowly geek, would love it, or the fact that I thought any of you actually give a crap about Particle Physics? I'm just going to pretend that you all adore it. It'll be better that way. Lar's right though. It doesn't get much cooler than a rap about quarks.

Tomorrow is the big day. If you care or are interested, here is the link.

I know I will be watching :)

John Beaker & Bunson Honeydew, circa 1995; ready to bust a rap. **wickey,wickey**

They were a Motley Crew.

2008-09-03T20:35:00.000-07:00

My lil' seester Kate came out for a visit this past weekend. She was kind enough to help me wrangle the kids through the mall to a photography shop to get their pictures taken. This was a huge deal for me. Places like this make me sweat. In fact, when I pass these shops I usually try and keep a wide berth just to avoid seeing other parents wrestle with their kids. Kids that are dressed up like little politicians and big fancy presents. My kids in such establishments are, shall we say, squirrely, to put it mildly. I liken having their pictures taken to dressing a feral cat with one hand. With my sisters help though, we got it done. Here are the results. Not too bad if I do say so myself.

Owen Bird - 1

Big Dane - 6

Anna Olivia - 8

Mr. John Goodbody - 30

I figured that since it's been, like, a coon's age since I've put a picture of John up in which I masterfully craft his face onto someone elses body (like this one), I'd pick a good one to make up for lost time. Hot, right?

Ralph Isn't From Arizona.

2008-08-27T20:34:00.000-07:00

"When summer opens, I see how fast it matures, and fear it will be short; but after the heats of July, and August, I am reconciled, like one who has had his swing, to the cool of autumn."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson -

Hey, I'm Only One Woman -or- Anna, A Reckoning.

2008-08-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

This is an approximation of a conversation which took place tuesday morning whilst Anna prepared for school. It all happened in a very joking manner. I've had this conversation with Anna at least 100,000,000 times. She's trying to break me down, but I'm so on to her.

Anna: "Mom, will you buy me one of those shirts that come with arm socks?"

Me: "Nay."

Anna: "Why? My friend Maddie has one."

Me: "Well Maddie doesn't have me for a mom. I'm mean."

Anna: "But mom...."

Me: "I'm not a butt mom, Anna, I'm a mom's mom."

Anna: "Don't change the subject. I really, really, really want just one shirt with arm socks. Why can't I? "

Me. "Hey, look: I know it's not easy being the kid of the mean mom, but you'll get used to it. For now, you are not allowed to wear leg warmers on your arms."

Anna: "That's not a reason."

Me: "Anna, these are different times, people don't just walk around with socks on their arms. Plus, I don't have to give a reason. That's one of the beautiful things about being the mean mom, and hey, I got a rep to protect."

Anna: "You're not mean, your just too sassy."

Me: "I can live with that."

Round 1: MOM!!!!!!

I Done Busted My Wrist.

2008-08-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

I've always been, shall we say, accident prone. I'm cringing now just thinking about how my family members are laughing at this. Two weeks ago, while heading to the store (after putting Bird in his carseat), I noticed that Danes skateboard was in danger of being run over. So with a Diet Coke in one hand and bad luck in the other I hopped on. I was only planning to ride it over to the corner, park it, and forget it. This didn't happen. I ate it. Hard. I landed on my left hand so as to save the Diet Coke. It hurt badly
, but I figgered it would get better. I even went to an Urgent Care Clinic and they said it was a small hairline fracture that only needed a splint. Good, phew! I spoke too soon. Not good, no phew. A radiologist called me up a few days later and told me I needed to go to a specialist. Reluctantly I made an appointment with an Orthopedic Surgeon who confirmed that I was spastic and then gave me some great news. My wrist was healing incorrectly and needed to be reset. Perfect. It hurt like a mutha!!! I left a couple of hours later with a bright geen cast alerting the world that I am a dunce. The Dr. actually had the huevos to say to me "You're not the best skateboarder, stick to your day job." Thanks Captin Obvious. I'll write that one down.

and some pics of the kids to appease Marcie......

Show Me Whatcha Got.

2008-08-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

After writing my last post I was curious as to what everyone else is listening to. I do adore Coldplay, but also love music in general. It's kind of my hobby, if you will. So, I was just wondering, what's in your CD player? When you get in your car, what CD is playing? I personally have a changer in mine. My list is as follows:

1. Cold Play - Viva La Vida

2. Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

3. Band Of Horses - Cease To Begin

4. Neko Case - Fox Confessor Brings The Flood

5. Elbow - Leaders Of The Free World

6. Miley Cyrus - Breakout (this one is Anna's)

7. The Ting Tings - Great DJ.

So, what's in your car? I'm DYING to know!

Say What?

2008-07-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

I've decieded to add a little segment (like every other blogger in the hiz-ouse) about the cute little things my kids say. There are so many. For our first installment you'll need to know that when this went down Anna was at a sleepover. She had been gone, at the time, approximately, 3 hours.

DANE'S PRAYER

DANE: "Dear Heavenly Father. I miss Anna a lot. Please bless her to come home so that I can play with her. I will not be mean to her, and she can boss me if she wants. Also, please bless Bird to stop clicking his tounge during my prayer."

John and I both had our lips curled into our mouths, so as not to laugh. Could. You. Just. DIE?

Anniversary #9, Comin' Down The 'Ssembly Line.

2008-07-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

John and I just celebrated our 9th anniversary on July 1st. I can't believe it. I feel like I just met him, when really it was 12 years ago. We were 18. I remember it like it was yesterday. I just love him so much. He is my sunshine. When I think about John a few things come to mind. I remember when I first met him. I remember seeing him again when I came home from my mission. I remember his demeanor on our wedding day. I remember his smile after each of our kids were born. I remember feeling his unconditional love when I was at my lowest point and just needed to be slapped, really. I remember being so grateful ,at that point , for the way he loved me. I know no one loves me like he does.

In truth, John and I couldn't be more different. Anyone that knows us well can attest to this. We are polar opposites, but we are compatible. Compatible in every way. Once, I learned a lesson on just how lucky I was to have him. It was an Ah-ha moment. It was our first Sunday in our new ward in Raleigh, NC. The Bishop came up to us after sacrament meeting to introduce himself. He said hi to John and they exchanged pleasantries. He then turned to me and said, "so, are you the better half of this marriage?" I said, "of course." He looked at me and kind of smiled and walked away. I wanted to grab him immediately and make a retraction. I realized the second it came out of my mouth that I am in no way, shape, or form, the better half of this operation. I'm lucky to have John. Actually blessed is a better word. Very blessed.

I love you Tex.

Peek-A-Boo.

2008-06-26T17:17:00.000-07:00

Bird is doing so many new things all the time. For instance, we were eating dinner last night and he started sticking his head in his onsie. He wouldn't pull it out until someone said "where's Bird?" I mean, seriously. Anna and Dane-Dane are cute, don't get me wrong, but c'mon. C'MON!!!!! This family has been totally and completely seduced by the cuteness of this Bird. Like I said before. If I could find a way to stick his head in my mouth, I'd eat him like a sucker. Nom-Nom-Nom. Here's how the peeky-boo played out.

Wait For It....Wait For It, NO!

2008-06-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

O-Bird is officially talking. Not really, but he did say his first word. His first word was "NO!" A great choice, I think, for his first steps towards oration. How exciting. I was feeding him his breakfast. Just some oatmeal and a banana, and I guess he had had enough because on my last offering, he smacked my hand, shook his head, and said "NO!" Anna and Dane rattled the house with laughter. They thought it was so funny. It was pretty cute.

Bird is just so fun. When he wakes up in the morning, Anna gets him out of his crib and she and Dane bring him to my room to lay in bed with John and I. We've done this every morning since Anna was just a wee babe. Today Anna looked at him and said "Owie-Bird, never grow up and fly away, please stay a small bird forever so we can always take care of you." I guess we all feel the same about him, even if the only word he ever says to us is "NO!"

Blogging Some Bird

2008-06-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

I get a text every few days from my kid seester Kate asking, nay, demanding that I "blog some bird." This post will hopefully take a little pressure off of my back. We think that bird is just so funny. He is always into something new. He is also always happy and his breath never stinks. Does it get any better than that? We've been doing a lot of fun things lately and I will be updating soon. Here are just a few recent pictures of bird for Kate (and everyone else).

Just a brief word or two about each pic and what bird is up too in them.

1. Channeling a-bit-o Xanadu. John thinks it's hilarious to put headbands on Owen like this.

2. We took the kids to a farm last saturday and Owen loved playing/eating (in) the hay.

3. Owen loves to make silly faces, and we love to try and smooch them off.

4. Bird recently discovered the paper shredder (it's never plugged in) and was pulling the stuff out faster than I could pick it up. He's into everything. EVERYTHING!

5. Another silly face, pre smooch.

6. Bird actually likes his carseat. I can't say I blame him. It's pretty much a LazyBoy.

Now Kate can get off my back and go back to beating up the elderly, and hurting the feelings of small children instead of harrassing me. :)

Like I said, I'll update later. I know that lot's of people keep blogs as journals. I don't do that, I keep an actual paper and pen journal. I love the classic-ness of that. I therefore don't update as much as I should. I will do better though. I'll post some new entries soon.

I know, I know.

2008-05-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

So, it's been a while. We've had a lot going on. I think I'll just recap with a pseudo-bullet presentation. Here we go.

Anna turned 8. Hooray!

Anna was baptized. Lots of loved ones were there. Thanks a bunch one and all.

Owen had tubes put in.

Owen had a blood clot blocking his ear tube. This caused much woe.

Owen was sick for three weeks straight before we could figger' this out.

Whao, woe.

The kids got out of school (pray for me).

Anna had an Orthodontic consultation. She will be the proud owner of a T-Rex/palette spreader (pray for her).

We're finally back on track. I will neglect this blog no longer. Hey, I'm only one woman.

Now my little sister can leave me alone, and go back to picking on small children, baby animals, and the elderly.

I Love The Way You Love Me.

2008-05-11T19:59:00.000-07:00

Since it's Mother's Day I thought I'd post this picture of my mom. It is one of my favorites. She is such a wonderful mom. I don't need to say much. This picture says it all. I've never taken a picture of her in which she wasn't looking at one of my kids in this exact way. I love that about her. She is so in love with each one of her grandkids. Maybe a little too much sometimes. But, I always ask myself, would I rather be loved too little, or too much? the answer is obvious. In fact, if you ask Anna and Dane "who loves you?", they will say "Grandma J" without hesitation.

We love you mom/Grandma J.

Love,
Ponce, GinaBeana, Cupcake, Sparky, and Mr. The Bird.

Be There Or Be Despondent.

2008-04-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

The clock says 5:12 am. Do you know where your kids are? I know where mine are. They're at the foot of the bed talking to me 100 decibels louder than they should, and getting closer to my face by the second. John is feigning sleep (I'm so on to him). I always seem to draw the short straw when it comes to getting up early with the kids.

What is it with kids waking up so early? I know that when I had did this to my parents they threw the remote control at my head and sent me off to watch some infomercials or even better, some random PBS early morning workout program with my sister Kate. Anyway, we have a lot going on this week and on these early mornings, after about 7am, when my eyes are all the way open I'm actually glad to have gotten a good head start.

Anna is being Baptized this weekend. She is so excited. John will be baptizing, and she's asked Grandpa J to Confirm her. We'd love to have y'all there. We'll be meeting at the Litchfield Building at 5:30 pm. Cake and Ice Cream afterwards too. Again, be there or be despondent.

Happy 8th Birthday Anna-mal!!!

2008-04-18T08:23:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that 8 years ago today Anna was born. If I were going to give a Power Point presentation on Anna and describe her in three points, it would go something like this.

1. Lover Of The Spoken Word. - If Anna were a Girl Scout Merit Badge she'd be a Public Speaking Merit Badge. She will absolutely talk your ear off if you let her. If she see's our neighbors out in their yard, she talks to them. Hey you, lady at the grocery store checking the groceries, let's talk. If she see's random guy x pushing his walker through the grocery store, she's gonna talk to him. Talk, talk, talk, talk. She loves to talk.

2. Lover of Scholarly Pursuits. - Anna is the brains of the kid operation around here. She seems to be a natural learner. She doesn't neccessarily love school, but she loves to learn. Actually just this week she was invited to take the admissions test into the Gifted Learning Program at her school. She brought home a letter from the program director and read it before I could. She was excited to take the test. She doesn't know this but the same invitation was sent home 3 months ago. We turned down the offer. John and I didn't feel like she should take it because the pass rate for the test is very low and I didn't want her feeling badly if she didn't do well. I kind of figured that if she didn't pass she'd think she wasn't smart anymore. I thought that just being asked was compliment enough. However, this time she assumed her name was Mrs. Gina Bacigalupi and read the letter. We explained the pass fail rate and she understood. We'll see how it goes. She takes the test next week. It is three days long and is given in 3 hour batteries. Sounds thrilling.

3. Lover of The Family Unit. - Anna loves her family. She is always concerned about what we're doing. Sometimes too much, but I think that comes with being the oldest child, being a girl, and being concerned in general. She loves taking care of Owen and Dane. One of the boys hates this, the other loves it. I won't say which is which. She loves her dad and waits for him on the porch to come home from work. She talks about her Grandpa J more than anyone else. She always says, "Grandpa J would love this," or "I'm saving this to show Grandpa J." She loves to talk to him on Skype too. I'm pretty sure that if she were given the option to move to Grandpa J's house she'd be all over it.

We love our Anna. She lives her life in ALL. UPPERCASE. LETTERS. All the time. And we wouldn't have her any other way! HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNAMAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who Is This Guy? PART I

2008-04-09T15:40:00.000-07:00

So, everyday John and I Tivo JEOPARDY! and watch it before we go to bed. EVERYDAY! No exceptions (hey, it keeps us off the streets). Last night John watched it by himself because I was too tired and went to bed early. I felt bad but was, as my dad says, "tuckered out". Well, apparently he really gave those other contestants a run for their money. He said it was a really easy episode. Pffft. You leave him alone for 20 minutes and he thinks he's Ken Jennings. The right side of my brain is shaking in it's boots.

11 Months, 364 Days...... The second waxing of sentimentality

2008-04-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow my sweet sweet bird will be one year old. I can hardly believe how quickly that year has flown by. When Owen was born, the love in our home began to increase exponentially. He has brought a level of happiness to our family that I can't explain with words. If you can, try to imagine your most prized posession, your brightest shiniest treasure, and taking that treasure out and setting it in the blazing noon day sun and watching it explode with light. That is what Owen does for the spirit of our house. Each of my babies has an effect on me. None is like the other. Birds effect is pure sunshine, and I like that. I like it just fine.

3 months.....

......6 months.........

...........9 months.............

........11 months 364 days (approx.)........

Some Pics Just For Grandma J (everyone else close your eyes :)

2008-03-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

This Week....Bipedal Locomotion

2008-03-25T16:28:00.000-07:00

Yes folks it's true. We are officially all upright walkers in our house. I guess my pickling recipe isn't working. Bird has been walking for about a week now. He is into everything too. He is just so sweet. I have, on several ocassions, wondered if I could possibly insert his whole head into my mouth just to get a good taste of that sweetness. FYI, I have never actually tried this. I think it bugs him enough that I always have my nose burried into the nape of his neck. Love this bird.

In other news......Anna got into trouble yesterday at school. Apparently she decided that her teacher talks too much (go figure, what with all that TEACHING and such). She smuggled a stop watch into the classroom and was caught timing various parts of the teachers lectures. Anna was shocked that the teacher was upset. In her world, knowing just how long your teacher talks about sentence structuring is irrefutable. She's a smarty two shoes, that one.

And now for Dane. He is such a bruiser. Kid is covered with bruises and cuts. He has a new friend in the neighborhood. Ben. Everyday when we get home from school Dane hops out of the car and rides his bike to Bens house. I can always tell where Dane and Ben are because they are always laughing like a couple of Hyenas. They're definately too cool for school.

Blame Pie. It's What's For Dinner.

2008-03-05T07:55:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone. Come on over for dinner tonight. My kids have made a huge (proverbial) Blame Pie and seem to be willing to serve it up to just about anyone in sight. You may have to be in certain parts of the house to recieve your share though. For instance......

You could be here, where someone left their toothpaste in the sink.....

(No Kate. It wasn't me)

......or here where somone, who knows who, dumped out Birds toys ........

......you could even be here, where someone left the cereal out........

.......or, though who knows why, you may be here, under the table where SOMEONE left their sleeping bag......

Yes. You could be in ANY of these places to recieve your delicious slice. And, there's no need to rush. Apparently, from what I hear, they're serving it for the rest of eternity with a nice cold glass of HE/SHE DID IT!!!!!! Honestly.

p.s ----This Bird didn't do it. He doesn't like Blame Pie yet.

So this is what he's been doing in his spare time?

2008-02-28T20:18:00.000-08:00

Someone emailed me asking why I didn't write a haiku for John on Valentines Day. The answer is simple. He doesn't read my blog. He doesn't read it because that would involve reading. Top to bottom, left to right, "NO THANKS" he says. Plus, he hasn't had any time to read it. He's been too busy working on his mullet.

............................Rad!

He's got MAD skillz.

2008-02-20T19:15:00.000-08:00

John bought Dane a bike. It looks like this.....

....within a few minutes he was doing this.....

....and after 1 day the training wheels came off and I couldn't watch the whack-a-do-things he was trying anymore. Makes my armpits itch. I did buy him one of these though (John forgot?)..........

Needless to say he loves his bike. And suddenly he's too cool for school around here. He thinks the bike has privileges. He would probably put Mr. The Bird in the garage and the bike in the crib if I'd let him. He also asked me if I would wipe it down while he was at school yesterday. Like he can just walk out the door after a long hard night riding his hog and toss the keys at me saying, "Clean, and fill 'er up little lady....I got some business what needs tendin' to....but I'll be back." But, hey, that's how he rolls. I'm willing to indulge. Willing until he asks me to park in the driveway so he can use the garage space. There have to be some limits.

5, 7, 5........Haikus for my Valentines. Just a little late.

2008-02-17T20:15:00.000-08:00

This is the blog where I wax sentimental. This rarely happens.

Anna
Smart, sweet, and witty.
Shines just as the noon day sun.

Bright, loving, golden.

Dane
His smile lights a room
Always ready with a hug.
Mama's Baby Guy.

Bird
Happy. Cute. Perfect.
Everyone loves a bird.
Chirp, Chirp, Chirp, Chirp, Chirp.

NOT Excelling At Being "Seen & Not Heard."

2008-02-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

So, I've got these three kids. It's saturday. And they're all, "mom I'm hungry," and "mom I'm thirsty" and "mom I need attention." What, am I in charge or something?" Don't kids come with a Saturday-Auto-Pilot button? Apparently not. It seems that the order I placed for children that could dress and feed themselves was overlooked. I seem to have recieved three kids that have needs, and think ill of a mother who wants to sit around on the weekends and re-read Anna Karenina. Pffft, whatever.

This all being said, I truly do love my kids. Most of the time they are very entertaining. For instance, Dane came into my room yesterday morning and hung out with John and I for a bit. When he got up to leave he ran back in for his blanket saying, "I can't forget my blanket, it takes me everywhere I need to go." Could you just die?

Another instance. Anna came home with her term report card. The teachers comments went something like this; "Anna is a very polite student she has wonderful manners and is very sharp. She is the top student in our class." "However, she talks excessively and disturbs the people sitting next to her." This left me with a smile on my face. She's getting straight A+'s, but talking all the time? I can only say to this, WAY TO MULTI-TASK SISTER!!!! Seriously, is there a downside?

As for the bird. He's basically just the newbie in the house. He has no time to annoy anyone. He spends it all being cute.

Get Your Vote On!!!!

2008-02-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

I just cast my vote, did you? I just love a chance to flex my civic muscles. Let's all get out and rock the vote. Just a quick thought too.....

"A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have". -Thomas Jefferson-

Overheard at the grocery store.

2008-02-02T14:56:00.000-08:00

While at Wal*Mart I encountered a lovely southern man and his lovely southern wife. They played peek-a-boo with Owen for a few minutes. While I was running my debit card I overheard this conversation between the couple in (not so) hushed tones,....

Man: "What a cute little baby."

Woman: "Yes indeed."

Man: "Ain't he the whitest baby you evah seen?"

Woman: "Mmmmm-hmm."

I get this comment a lot.

Striving For Mediocrity.

2008-01-31T22:26:00.000-08:00

So, let's just state for the record that John told someone recently that "blogging is for rejects and republicans." To this I say.....count me in!!!!! Those of you who know John and I best know that if John says something is lame I'll be the first one on the band wagon for it. Bless him. But seriously. Let's just get into it. Since the only person who will be bored enough to read this blog once housed me in her womb, I owe it to her to talk of what she desires most, my offspring.

This week Anna and I are working on her bedroom. She wants to paint the walls, floor-to-ceiling, chocolate brown. I have other visions. Being the kind little thing that she is, she agreed to let me sleep on it. How thoughtful. When not stressing about the details of her boudoir, she is always willing to help me mother her brothers. She told me the other day that I "needed to be really firm with Dane," because "he isn't listening to me very well." She also got mad at me a few days ago because I haven't taught her her times tables yet. I told her I didn't know she was having a hard time with them in school. She quickly said, "we're not learning them in school but I think they look really fun, and you need to teach them to me." She wants to learn times tables? My heart melted with math-loving pride.

Dane has worn out the knees on no less than 4 pairs of jeans in the past two months. Either he is crawling around the school playground, or pulling a "John-at-the-prom." My sincere hope is for the latter. How proud I'd be. His bestest friend Jules and he are inseperable. Jules and his family are from France. Dane said that "he speaks french and eats crepes with crab in them." I think this was just fine with him until the last time he played at Jules' house he was asked to partake. No thanks, and adieu.

Owen ( O-bird) is awesome. He rarely cries, always sleeps through the night, smiles at everyone, and loves to lick walls. Could it get any better? Probably not. He's getting big too fast. I need to figure out a way to pickle him and keep him small.

I'll work on that this week. Pickle them.....pickle them all.