Quella Persona

Good Bye Blogspot

2010-03-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hello new and improved QUELLA PERSONA! Blogspot you have been good to me over the past three years but all good things must come to an end. Friends please head over to www.quellapersona.com for all the latest!

WPPI.raw

2010-03-11T14:07:00.000-08:00

This is a shot of the hallway I walked over a hundred times throughout the five days I was in Las Vegas. Not a window to be found. It connects the casino and the restaurants (more importantly, Starbucks) to the conference center.

These are the blog entries I wrote every evening, except Saturday and Sunday night, when I would drag my tired self back to the hotel room and unwind for another day. (My hotel charged $12.00 a day for WiFi, so I decided to just post these when I got home...typical Vegas.)

Monday, March 8th Day 2 WPPI
Oh my word! I don’t know where to begin. So I will begin with how I am feeling right at this moment. Tired. My feet hurt from walking all over the place from one meeting room to another, up and down convention room floors, looking at this canvas paper and listening to yet another web-design spiel. Up and down, back and forth trying to take as much information in as possible and trying not to think about how sore I am going to be from carrying my very heavy camera (which I have rarely used at this photography convention) on my back. WHEW. Just writing it out makes me dizzy. My eyes burn. Not because I have been looking through my lens all day but just looking. Studying. Concentrating. It wears me out.

Now for how I am feeling… In many respects I feel like a failure. A wanna-be. A nobody. I don’t make 6 figures, not even close, possibly not even four figures, and even though I sat in on two hours of Jared Bauman’s lecture “Your Business: On Auto Pilot for a Six Figure Income” and scribbled down notes like there is no tomorrow, I seriously doubt that by the end of this year, even if I follow every single word he says, will I ever make 6 figures. This may be because I didn’t buy his CD. But I can’t afford the fifty bucks. Maybe I should look at it as an investment. Additionally, my website is from a template and probably like the majority of 90% of other photographers’ websites. This goes against Jasmine’s Star’s shtick on how I should be different. UGH.

But on the other hand…I feel incredibly and totally inspired! I do want to be a different photographer. I don’t care so much about how much money I make. What I have discovered that what is important to me is authenticity. I want to be an authentic photographer. I want to take photographs that I care about…that please me. That make me smile…or bring a tear to my eye. I want to connect with my clients in way that drops down all the walls and I want to be invited into their precious world. I want to connect with them on an intimate and real level. Not that I haven’t done this in the past. I definitely connect. But truthfully, I have to admit that I hold back. I want to bring an experience to my clients. No more fake smiles. My goal leaving here is real, raw, true, emotion. I am so excited to get started on the new and improved Gina Marie Photography!!!!

Tuesday, March 9, 2010 WPPI
I am happy to report that today I feel more better. Thankfully, I am not in that same place of self doubt that I was in yesterday. I came to the realization that there is a very wide spectrum of photographers. On the far left is “The Brand” on the right is “The Artist.” It is my theory that those who fall closest to the middle of that spectrum are the most successful in the industry. I have met (or seen) a lot of brands this week. They are trying to sell me everything from their on location techniques to their photoshop actions. On the right are the artists. They say “cuss” the brand, “cuss” the image, I am going to take the shots I want, how I want and if you don’t understand what I am trying to convey then “cuss” you. I find myself thinking what is more important to me? The Brand or the Art? I think that for me the art comes first. I want to find myself in my art. I want people to look at a photograph and first and foremost, be touched with an emotion but secondly recognize that it came from me. The art then the brand. On the flip side, I do care that people like it. I want people to like my photographs. Because it is personal. Very personal. If someone likes my work then in a sense they are saying they like me. And I’ll be honest, I want to be liked. When I go on a photoshoot I pray that I will see my clients the way God sees them. I want to see them as unique and beautiful beings. To do that I must open my heart to them…and I do. And here we find art again. It is a vicious cycle. Because then I must find myself in business mode and wanting to sell my viewpoint to them. I want them to see how beautiful I see them enough to want to buy the images I present. That is the brand. And around we go. I find that now, I must find myself again, as a brand and as an artist. The most exciting part to me is that I want to.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010 WPPI Final Day
The first thing I must say is, “Gosh, I have missed my family!” They are the sunshine in my life! As I stood in the taxi cab line waiting to be driven to the airport I caught a glimpse of myself in one of the many mirrors lining the outside corridor of the MGM. I had to look twice because at first glance what I thought I saw looking back at me looked very much like a vampire. White skin, red-rimmed eyes, dark, slicked back hair. Me? Is that really me?!?! “Oh, my!” I thought, “I need some vitamin D!!!” For a city that never sleeps, I must say that inside Las Vegas casinos it is always night. No natural light to be found anywhere! But now, as I sit on my plane watching the sun set beyond the horizon I realize that maybe it is more a lack of family in my days that has washed the color out of my skin and drained the light from my eyes.

Am I glad I came? Yes! Am I thrilled to be going home? YES YES YES! Las Vegas is not the place for me. But what I received there, will, undoubtedly change my life. For the first time since committing to a career in photography, or really a lifestyle as a photographer, I realized that this is something I am truly passionate about. I finally see myself as an artist and as a business woman. It occurred to me as I was walking through the same corridor I had walked a hundred times this past week, amongst a sea of photographers, that I am not the only one who has doubts about her work. I am not the only one who feels like a wanna be or that maybe I have no business in this part of the ocean with the big sharks. Or that I am just one little fish among many. I am a little fish, a little, tired, vampire fish with sore feet and a crooked back. But I am a little vampire fish with passion and a fire lit in her little vampire fish heart. Just you wait and see!

Sweet...my flight home..and some sunshine!

And the countdown begins...

2010-03-03T15:01:00.000-08:00

I am going! This year, I actually get to go the the Wedding and Portrait Photographers International convention in LAS VEGAS, baby! Whooo-Hooo! I am so excited! Thanks to my husband who is taking time off work to take care of the kids and thanks to my brother who listed me as his assistant so I can go for FREE! (I am squealling it like in that movie "Bedtime Stories."). I used my credit card points for my airfare and got a Priceline deal on a really nice hotel. Bummer I am sharing it with my brother but who can be picky when you are on a budget, right? Oh, I am so excited!!!!

I have to sign off so I can go jump up and down, now....WEEEEE-HEEEEEE!

Rite of Election

2010-02-25T05:42:00.000-08:00

This is my first blog about my conversion to Catholicism. After many years of prayer and counsel by both Catholics and Non-Catholics, I have actually decided to convert. Last night I experienced the Rite of Election. It is a ceremony held by the Catholic Church to accept into it new members. Everyone in the area is called by name and introduced to the Bishop. They stand up, walk up to the altar, sign their name in a book and personally meet the bishop. It is a beautiful ceremony and very rich in biblical meaning:

Isaiah 40:26 "Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing."

John 10:3, 14 (The Shepherd and His Flock) "The watchmen opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out...I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me..."

Because I have already been baptized in the Catholic church, I didn't not actually sign the book and meet the bishop. My name was called, though, and I stood before the others accepting the call to conversion. I couldn't help but get choked up as I watched the others who haven't yet been baptized walk up to that altar and sign their name. So many people from different walks of life making a decision to seek God. To make Him their shepherd. To know His voice.

Fire-Station Birthday Party

2010-02-25T05:32:00.000-08:00

For Luke's 3rd birthday party we toured the local fire station. It was so cool and the firemen were so welcoming and nice.

This is station 22 also know as Double Deuce.

The kids got to drive the truck!

One fireman put on all his gear (in less than 4 minutes!). He wanted to show the kids what they look like when they are all geared up so that they would know not to be afraid if they were ever to see him in an emergency.

The captive audience.

Six new recruits!

Then on to Lucky 13 for pizza and birthday cake!

Happy Birthday Luke!

2010-02-10T05:06:00.000-08:00

Luke: one day

One Year

2-years-old

Three!

This time three years ago I was pacing the halls of the Goldsboro (Wayne County) hospital waiting for my baby. He was born at 3:20 a.m. and after some brief cuddle time and a little practice at nursing they whisked him away until 8:30. That was the longest five hours of my life. But this post is not meant to dwell on ancient and barbaric post-partum practices. This is about where we are today after three of the best years of my life!

So, let me tell you about Luke. To start, one of my favorite traits about him is his smile. He smiles with his whole face! It is the biggest, most wonderful smile. By the same token when he cries, he cries with his whole face. It is pitiful! His big brown eyes filled with tears, mouth turned down and quivering, cheeks red. It makes it very hard to discipline him. And he does not like to be told "no." Lately after being told "no" (usually to candy or cookies) he will either reply with, "Awwww, come on! You've got to be kidding me!" which is spoken in kind of a fun tone. Or he will angrily yell "MOMMY! DON'T SAY THAT TO ME!" It all depends on his mood, which response I will get. But for the most part, he is the happiest, most content little boy.

Luke is potty trained now. It is was all about just taking away the diapers. He would still prefer to wear them as I think he doesn't really like to wash his hands after going potty. Whenever he washes his hands he sings his ABC's. Luke can count but I don't know how high, somewhere in the teens it goes a little hay-wire. Just last week he decided he wanted to play hide-and-seek with just me. Usually he has a big brother leading the way. He insisted on counting first. I hid in the kitchen curtains and patiently waited as he counted to 20. He was in the pantry (our counting place) for a long time. He'd almost get there and then skip twenty, go to twenty-four, twenty-five, etc...then back down to 11 and almost to 20 again only to jump to forty. I finally had to call out, "okay, sweetie, say 'ready or not, here I come!'"

Luke's best friend is Hank. I can get him to go anywhere and do anything if it means he'll get to see Hank. Luke's hero is his older brother! As for me and Nick, he'll choose the one of us that isn't pursuing him. If I try to give him a bath, then he wants Dad to do it. If Nick wants to hold his hand, he goes for mine (if Jay isn't around). Luke's favorite toys are guns (ugh, it must be an ingrained boy thing) and cars. His favorite food is anything sweet...cookies or candy. He will, however, settle for berries and fruit. Vegetables? Forget it! When he gets the priviledge of a treat he doesn't sit and savor the moment, he shoves the goodies down his throat, eating as much and as quickly as possible. Luke's favorite television show is Sesame Street with his favorite segment being, "Abby's Flying Fairy School" which may some day be a source of embarrasment for him, particularly since it is now written out. Luke is presently in swimming lessons and this is where I really see his desire to please. He will do anything the teacher tells him to do, even when he is clearly scared, and always with a big smile on his face. That's my Luke!

Happy 3rd Birthday Sweet Boy!

No Snow in Boise

2010-02-07T06:35:00.001-08:00

But, we do have sunshine and some warmer temps so Luke gets to try out his new, blue, big-boy bike outside as Jay returns to his ripstick.

Let it snow! Please?!?!?!

2010-02-02T05:42:00.001-08:00

People are getting snowed in all around us. My sister, Katherine, wore her pajamas inside out and backwards and the very next day, in Nasheville TN, there was 4 inches of snow! My friends in Germany and Belgium are reporting on Facebook that they are snowed in. Snow Snow SNOW! How come up here in the northern part of the U.S. there isn't any? Jay desperately wants a snow day. I told him about Aunt Katherine's method and you know he was totally up for that! I decided to join him. Here we are in our pajamas, inside out and backwards. You can see the hope in his eyes. This was the first night I didn't have to ask him to get ready for bed.

It didn't work. No snow. Not a trace. Sorry Kid. (You can blame it on Aunt Katherine. She took our snow.)

Handprints on the Window

2010-02-01T14:43:00.001-08:00

Every morning I wake to find our kitchen window covered in condensation. Some mornings, when it is really cold outside, that condensation is a sheet of thin ice. But one morning I found this.

Jay goes back to preschool...

2010-02-01T14:33:00.001-08:00

Jay has been begging me to bring me to Luke's Mom & Tots class. Unfortunately Luke's class is held during Jay's class. Of course, Jay has asked to skip school so he can join us..."just one time!" My answer: "no." As luck would have it Jay's school had a teacher workday that fell on Monday and so he got to return to his old preschool and help Luke in Mom & Tots. Since I had a little more freedom, I brought my camera.

Luke went right to business. Painting...

and hammering...

and splashing...

I love this photo of Jay playing with Luke in the water table. He is such a sweet kid!

Luke was so proud to have his big brother by his side during circle time.

And Jay is way more fun than me on the playground!!!

But way too big for that car!

Our first visitors of 2010!

2010-01-18T05:35:00.000-08:00

Nick's sister Sarah and her husband Carlos were just here for a short visit from California. We had so much fun I hardly took any photos. I didn't take any, except this very one before loading the car and taking them to the airport. Mostly we went snow-boarding / skiing. Jay even got to miss a half day of school so he could hang with his aunt and uncle. The boys love them! They especially love Carlos who is himself, one big kid! He is always willing to play.

Thanks for the visit Sarah and Carlos! We miss you! Hope you got some rest when you returned home:-)

A Fresh Start!

2010-01-04T05:42:00.000-08:00

It is the first Monday of the new year...2010...of a new decade! I am so excited, I could harldy sleep last night! Time for a fresh start! I spent the past couple of weeks thinking about my accomplishments (and failures) of 2009 and my hopes for 2010. It occured to me that all of my disappointments of 2009 and all of my resolutions for 2010 boil down to one thing; self-discipline...or lack thereof. Diet, exercise, budgeting, less television, no gossiping, more time playing with the boys and reading to them, building a stronger relationship with my husband, giving more to charity of both time and money, spending more time in prayer and Bible study...it all boils down to self discipline. Self-discipline means not giving in to laziness and the immediate, yet false and fleeting, feelings of satisfaction, but rather working towards delayed gratitude. Work. Self-displine requires work. But nothing feels better than accomplishing a goal! And that is what New Year's Resolutions are all about; self-evaluation and setting goals. Somebody once told me that the difference between a dream and a goal is a time-line.

To start my journey of improved self-displine I am starting mostly on my diet. For me, it is probably the hardest area. I love food...and wine. If anything, the holidays have reinforced to me that when I eat badly and drink too much I feel bad. My clothes don't fit and I don't have energy. Laziness sets in. Then more bad food and the cycle continues. I find when I am disciplined in my eating then everything else falls into place.

So here it is, for the next 12 weeks:
*Log food daily. Everything I eat.
*1500 - 1600 calories on exercise days
*1200-1300 calories on non-exercise days
* 30% protein, 50% carbs, 20% fat (good fat)
*NO alcohol during the week (except the occasional girl's night)
*Wine is allowed on the weekends as long as it fits into my calorie count above.
* 2 free meals per week

Exercise: 5-6 days per week

And here are my other personal goals in self-discipline for the month of January:
1. No gossiping!
2. Start and end each day in prayer
3. Read at least three books to Luke before nap and bedtime
4. 20 minutes each day reading or studying with Jay
5. No more than 1 hour of television during the weekdays
6. No more than 2 hours of television during the weekend days (except Superbowl Sunday)
7. Purchase only "needs" no "wants."
8. Find a local charity I can start giving myself too. Not just my money but also my time.

Re-Evaluate my goals the beginning of each month and write down my accomplishments from the previous month.

So, here it is, in black and white all areas I personally feel I need improvement. I love feeling starting fresh and feeling hopeful for change! Here's to 2010. Now it is time for me to turn off this computer and go be with my kids who just woke up.

Happy New Year!

Our Christmas

2010-01-01T14:03:00.001-08:00

'Tis the Season...

2009-12-16T14:26:00.001-08:00

...to be jolly!

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas...

The first feel of snow...hence the really big smile! It was just a dusting a little precursor to what was to come but enough to make Luke one really happy boy!

Oh, you'd better watch out, you'd better not pout, you'd better not cry, I'm telling you why...
Santa Claus is coming to town! (And this is the REAL one! Jay was sure of it!)

This is Jay's list. It has his side and Luke's side and a middle column of things that would be nice for both of them. At the top of Jay's list is a JLX Overdrive remote control car that can go fast over any terrain...even through water! And Luke wants a BIG BOY BIKE!

I would give anything to know the exact thought Luke is having right here in this shot!

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...how lovely are your branches!

Our tradition of placing the star on top of the tree doesn't thrill me so much as rattle my bones...for me, it is scarier than Halloween! Nick stands on top of a stool (no, not a foot stool...a BAR stool) with a boy on TOP of his shoulders and then leans WAY over so said boy can place the star on top of the tree. This year it was Luke's turn.

His arms were a tad short so, thankfully instead of Nick standing on top of a phonebook, on top of the bar stool and leaning even further over, he took over.

Nick is holding onto the star, Luke is holding on for dear life, Jay is holding on to the stool and I am holding my breath. This is a team effort.

Aaaaaahhhh.....

We wish you a Merry Christmas! We WISH you a MERRY Christmas!! We WISH you a Merry CHRISTMAS...and a Happy New Year!!!

Struffoli: A Family Tradition

2009-12-10T05:42:00.001-08:00

There are some things everyone should know, if they don't already, about Italians. One, we love food! Love it! Two, the most important thing, other than food, is family. And three, traditions are very important! Mainly because they often involve both food and family. My grandmother, Nonnie, recently passed away. One of my fondest memories of her are the times we made Struffoli together. Her hands as she rolled out the dough will forever be ingrained in my memory. This past Thanksgiving, I watched my Dad pass on the tradition to my sons and niece. This dessert is so simple, but for me, there is nothing sweeter.

Here is the recipe:

First mix together 3.5 cups of flour, 6 eggs plus one egg yolk, and the zest of one lemon and one orange and a half teaspoon of salt.

Add a little limoncello, an Italian liquor, if you want.

The most important ingredient of any good Struffoli is family.

After the dough has rested in the refrigerator for 30 minutes it is time to roll in out into long ropes...or "snakes" as we called them. This is where little hands can be very useful.

Oh, and it always nice to have Struffoli prepared by a beautiful princess!

Luke is either making sure Macie is doing it right or he is doing it right. What he doesn't know, is there is no wrong way to roll out Struffoli.

After cutting the rope into small half inch pieces they are ready to put into canola oil for frying. They will puff up so don't put in too many.

Cook until golden.

Next, coat your Struffoli with plenty of honey. (If you can get it onto the plate)

And finally, the most crucial ingredient...SPRINKLES! Oh, and the must, must, must be the tiny little ball sprinkles. No other sprinkle will do. (Okay, I admit, that part is important to me but since tradition is all about making things your own, feel free to use any type of sprinkle you want. You may even prefer powdered sugar. I just highly recommend the tiny little ball sprinkles.)

Throw in some love from a very proud Crampa.

And enjoy...straight from the platter.

Mom's Sixtieth!

2009-12-01T05:30:00.000-08:00

We just returned home from Colorado after celebrating my mom's sixtieth birthday! I can't believe she is 60! She doesn't look it though and if she were to take Dr. Oz's true age test I am sure it would confirm she isn't a day over 35. We, her family, decided rather than a big party, which she isn't fond of, we would rent a house in Breckenridge and take her away for a couple of days. It was so much fun! I wish I had taken my camera out more to capture all of the fun things we did. I often find myself torn between experiencing the moment and capturing it. But here are a few shots, mostly of these sweet kids, of our time there.

We did crafts...

Macie is ALL girl! I love getting my "girl fix" with my sweet niece.

I love this racoon hat. No more crafts for him, Jay is ready to play in the snow!

Snow time it is!

Whenever possible, I must get these two hugging! They are so darn cute!!!

Hot Chocolate Time!!!

I love this shot of Macie.

Story time before nap time. Kat took this one...thanks Katherine!

Mom. I love her!

Bath Time!

Now it is time for cake! Jay helped make this gluten free cake for Granny.

Happy Birthday Mom!!!!

Three days later we all celebrated Thanksgiving together. I think it is the best one I have celebrated in a long time! I love being around all of my family!

Mom and Steve

My sister Katherine, niece Macie and brother-in-law Eric.

My brother Mark and his girlfriend Elle.

I'm late on Halloween too...

2009-11-10T05:43:00.001-08:00

Trick-or-Treat was a blast this year! The weather was perfect and both boys really got into it. I thought having it on Saturday would be ideal. It was, except the boys were hyped up at home all day in anticipation rather than hyped up at school. But once we got those costumes on and out the door...fun, fun, FUN!

Last year, Jay was a ninja. This year Jay dressed up as a SCORPION ninja! Luke, was Max, King of all Wild Things. I thought this would be a perfect costume for him. He is the biggest Wild Thing I know. I asked him if he wanted to be Max, not thinking at the age of two he would have an opinion on it. He said, no, he wants to be Batman. Batman? Really? Thinking this was a fluke and would pass, I bought the Max PJs anyway. Afterall, Halloween is all about me, right? So, while online I showed him the picture of the Max PJs. Wouldn't you know, the Warner Brothers website would include the Batman icon on the top menu bar. Luke, not missing a thing, says, "No, I want to be that one and he points to Batman." UGH.

I don't know if it was that my heart was set on him being Max because I knew how darn cute he would look or if it was more a matter of keeping him my baby but I bought the Max costume anyway. I know from here on out I will no longer have a say. So, Max it is! For two weeks, I wondered if he would actually wear the costume of my choosing or he we would end up Trick-or-Treating as Luke, King of the Terrible Twos. I should have known that once I mentioned "candy" he would wear anything.

So, here they are...my fierce Scorpion Ninja and Max, King of the Wild Things!

That's a Wild Thing if ever I saw one!

Let the Wild Rumpus begin!

Cute? No?

Fierce, except for those gorgeous blue eyes!

Once we started on our candy mission, Jay was long gone with his friends. I stayed back with Luke and was entertained for at least two hours. Door after door, Luke would look into the windows and yell "TRICK OR TREAT!!!!" Oh, he was ALL about Halloween. There wasn't one scary doorway that would keep him from getting that candy!

I guess this is it. My baby no more. I know it won't be long before Luke is off trick-or-treating with his big brother and all of their friends and I will be left at home to pass out candy. So, I got my way this year. Next year be on the lookout for Batman and probably another ninja...and a mom, who is finding it hard to let go, in tow.

I am so late wishing my 9-year-old HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2009-11-04T04:59:00.000-08:00

October 10th 2009

The day started out with Jay's second to last football game. He played like a 9-year-old!

The team did an obnoxious rendition of the HAPPY BIRTHDAY song.

More football at Jay's football birthday party. Nope, he isn't having any fun!

One dad and four kids per team.

Way to block that 6-year-old, Dave!

The fans.

Pizza at Lucky 13

Luke is waiting for cake.

Happy birthday sweet boy! I can't believe you are nine!

Some Words on Miscommunication...

2009-10-07T05:50:00.001-07:00

Luke is two and a half now! And boy, does this boy know what he wants! The problem is I don't. Everyone knows the consequences that can result from miscommunication. Sometimes it can lead to disastrous results, other times, hurt feelings...the list goes on and on. With a two-year-old, miscommunication always leads to frustration and often tears. Here is our classic example.

We are in the car and Luke clearly wants something. What isn't clear, is that thing that he wants. He calls out very adamantly "Mom! I want *#&$#^*#&$(*#&$#&$" (water, I figure out later)

Me: "What?"

Luke: "&^#*$*&#($!!!!"

Me: "You want something?"

Luke: "&#^*$#&^$*#&!!!!!!"

Me thinking...."hmmm, it sounds like 'park'...is he asking to go to the park?"

This is where I make my fatal mistake...I guess...

Me: "You want to go to the park?"

Luke (thinking "what a great idea...forget the water!"): "Yeah! I GO PARK!!!!!!"

Me: "Luke, we can't go the park."

Luke: crying and confused I know he must be thinking: "then why did you suggest it!"

Me: Feeling like the worst mother ever!

Note to self: always start with water.

Mom & Tots

2009-09-29T05:54:00.001-07:00

Luke and I just started the Mom and Tots class every Monday morning. It is an hour and half of pure two-year-old heaven! The very first day Luke sat a the playdough table and didn't move. He loved the playdough. These are taken on our third week where he has discovered all the wonderful possibilities in that room. Needless to say, playdough still gets his attention, but only for a minute.

Here he is painting with apples!!!

He is holding his hand up to keep his very enormous watch on.

Now, painting with paintbrushes...but this time, standing up!

Cars. Oh, the joy for a two-year-old boy! That is, until another 2-year-old boy tried to steal that joy. Time out woes shortly followed.

Tools!

Luke made me my favorite breakfast...plastic eggs and air cereal...YUM!!!

After hand-washing, circle time and a snack all the boys and girls go outside!

Luke drives a boat...

and a trike...

waits in line...

and this, I don't know what the heck he is doing...but he is having fun!

Stay tuned...I am sure there will be more Mom & Tots posts to come.

Go Bulldogs!

2009-09-28T05:13:00.001-07:00

There he goes. First play of the day! Today he is playing offense. The kids say he is one of the best blockers. I love that he plays hard and tough. He loves the game.

Nick is number 30.

Good game!

Observations While Spinning

2009-09-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

Ear Plugs. She wears ear plugs every week and a pretty bow in her hair; maybe she wears the bow so people won't notice those big orange ear plugs. Next to her sits "Bobble-Head." No, other description necessary. Then there is the man who thinks he is Lance Armstrong. In the back corner spins a very fit granny and to her left are some very fake boobs. The Reader. Not sure how he reads and spins but he does...and breaks a sweat. Today there was ass crack. Yes, ass-crack on the bike directly in front of me...talk about distracting! Next to him was a man in a very tight, white t-shirt. I think they may be a couple. They share a water bottle...yep, definitely a couple. To my right is the biggest diamond on a ring I have ever seen! I just want to touch it! Maybe if I become friends with the wearer she'll let me try it on some day. A woman walks in late, she looks like she literally just rolled out of bed and came to class. I think she is actually wearing her pajamas and has the worst bed-head ever! In front of her is a very pretty woman dressed all in black with long sleeves and pants...I wonder if she is too hot in all those clothes. I could never wear long sleeves in spinning class but she isn't even breaking a sweat. Then there is the "HOOT AND HOLLERER!" WHOOO he LOVES this class! But I have say, earplug girl does NOT love him. She shoots him dirty looks every time he howls. The instructor has the body of a twenty-year-old but the lines on her face make me guess she is in her late forties. And finally, a tired looking mom who is having a bad hair day, spins away as hard as her sore legs will let her and entertains herself, to help the brutal hour pass, by people watching. Guess which one is me...

Potty Training Woes...

2009-09-18T05:10:00.001-07:00

We are potty training. This may be another excuse I have for not staying on top of blogging. Pretty much every five minutes I hear this sweet little voice say, "Mom, I doe (go) pee pee on the potty?" Sometimes something comes out, which is very exciting, because this means a treat! But usually, nothing happens, which is so very disappointing and frustrated for both of us. For Luke pee-pee on the potty = treat. Which is awesome in his mind...whenever he feels like a treat he asks to go sit on the potty. Which is literally every five minutes! I once made the mistake of saying "no, you don't need to go yet. You just sat on the potty...there is no pee pee in there." Sure enough, he peed in his diaper and became hysterical. I felt awful! He was so distraught!

Okay, plan B...stickers.

Thinking that a lollipop was just too enticing, not to mention too much sugar in one day, I decided to change the reward to stickers. The result, Luke would prefer to go in his diaper than receive a lousy old sticker which just falls off anyway. So where are we? Back to lollipops and sitting on the potty every five minutes. He's starting to figure it out though. As for poo-poo, well, nothing is worth a lollipop plus he gets plenty of those anyway. He prefers to "hide." Here he is in his favorite spot. Notice lollipop in hand...

Third Grader in the House!

2009-09-18T05:06:00.000-07:00

And he started school three weeks ago! Have been a very bad blogger lately and I blame facebook! My husband has even noticed and commented that he is sad I haven't been keeping the blog updated. So, I'm back. Jay is back to school...I have no excuses!

Poor Luke is so camera shy. He couldn't stand me taking a picture of just Jay so he jumped in there...I love my boys!!!

End of Summer Fun!

2009-09-08T06:10:00.001-07:00

During the last week of summer vacation we met our friends, (friends we don't see nearly enough) at this cool little park on the west side of town. It has a wonderful little water area...

This is Josiah, otherwise known as Jojo. Luke LOVES him but calls him DoDo.

Yes, all boys! Not one girl between the three of us. But Nayibe will have one soon:-).

Luke was freezing but refused to leave the water.

Discovering My Passion...

2009-08-30T07:35:00.001-07:00

I have been busy lately! Busy in a great way. Suddenly, out of nowhere I have been hired for my photography talents...for the most unique jobs. Since moving back to Boise I have been trying to build my family and children's portrait business. It has been slow going but still going well. However, recently I have been hired by a builder to advertise his homes and a new development. Below is a copy of the back cover of his brochure.

This photo among others will be on a billboards advertising a new development called Paramount.

Then I was hired by an optometry office to photograph children in sunglasses, eyeglasses and contacts for their office, as well as the office staff. They liked my work so much we have started a partnership together.

Recognize this little guy? He was one of my models.

How about this one?

Next...body-building! My friend Krista is second from the right.

This is my trainer.

In exchange for some portrait work I am doing for Gold's Gym, they have agreed to let me advertise. Here is my poster.

And finally, this is a shot from the second wedding I have been hired to photograph this summer.

When I am so busy that my laundry is piling up and I don't have time to do my hair I have to ask myself, "is this really what I want to do with my time?" And thankfully, and somewhat surprisingly the answer is a definite "YES!" I think I have finally discovered something I am truly passionate about.

I Did It! I Camped!!!

2009-08-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

For two nights and three days, in a tent, out in the middle of the mountains, no bathrooms, no showers. I did it! We went with our friends and had a blast. Here's what we did.

We drove our boats to our campsite.

We gave each other "high fives!"

Dug up bones. We called our camp "Dinosaur Beach" because of all the bones the kids found. I didn't really care what kind of animal it was but was quite concerned about what animal killed it.

We enjoyed cocktails, good company and beautiful sunsets!

Drove the boat around the awesome reservoir!

Tubed

Wakeboarded

Played in the water.

Enjoyed walks along the beach with a friend.

Flirted with all the girls.

Danced on the log and got a little crazy!

Slept under the stars and ate all of our meals outside.

Smiled

And danced some more!

Fun was had by all. But nothing is like home sweet home...a soft bed and running water!

Beloved Nonnie

2009-07-29T06:56:00.001-07:00

It is an end of an era. My beautiful grandmother,Matilda Cafiero, passed away Sunday at the age of 88. She immigrated to the United States from Italy in the late 1930s or early 1940 on an arranged marriage to my Crampa. They met only days before their marriage and spent their first hours alone on their wedding night. The grew to love each other dearly and had a life-long marriage of love, laughter, music and family. They had seven children, 13 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. My grandfather worked initially in his father's pizzeria in New York. He became an aircraft mechanic and took great pride in his work. She worked to raise not only her children but she also worked to care for other children. They moved to Las Vegas where my grandfather performed playing his mandolin and Nonnie sang and played the tambourine. Then on to Phoenix Arizona where they continued to raise their family and perform together.

My fondest memories in childhood were the visits to Nonnie and Crampa's house in Phoenix. There was always a lot of people around and delicious Italian cooking...and of course, music. Each night the family would gather together around two tables, the adult table and the kid's table and enjoy a fabulous meal that Nonnie worked all day to prepare. I always remember it being very loud...a good loud. After our meal we would settle into the living room where my grandfather would pull out his mandolin and start playing. My Uncle Sal would join in with the drums, my father with his guitar, and Nonnie would sing. All the cousins would dance around with our tambourines and maracas. Laughter would fill this small house on East Geneva St.

Click below to enjoy an audio clipping of my Crampa and Nonnie together with some friends and family playing a jam session. I guarantee it will bring a smile to your face. (This is an old taping so be sure to listen past the loud screeching noise).

Nonnie Sings from Mark Cafiero on Vimeo.

Today, their legacy lives on in the family "Get-Rich-Quick" game and the Great Saldini show. We still enjoy the music of my uncle and dad at our family reunions and talent shows performed by the great-grandchildren. And although, I am sad that Nonnie is no longer with us I am happy knowing she is in Heaven now singing and smiling with Crampa.

Lessons Learned while "Getting Better Soon."

2009-07-18T17:37:00.000-07:00

Now that I am feeling better and have a clear head I thought I would write about my experiences this past week. Most of you who read my blog know that last Friday I had hernia repair surgery. I thought it would be an easy procedure and an easy recovery. Never having had surgery before my biggest fear was undergoing anesthesia. The surgery went well and eight days later I can say that each day is better than the one before...but easy? No, definitely not easy. But I don't want to write about that. I just want to write about a few lessons learned this past week.

1. When a surgeon tells you: "You'll be down for about two days then you can resume normal activity." Don't believe him...unless your normal activity consists of resting all day on the sofa, being waited on hand and foot, and only getting up to go to the bathroom.

2. Never take your health for granted. All week I stared at a pile of laundry and wished I could sit up long enough to fold it.

3. Sometimes God wants you to be still. Sometimes God wants you to be alone.

4. Friends are awesome! Heaven sent meals appeared every day and flowers and cards and well-wishes and phone calls.

5. The human body is weird and amazing! I am in awe of our capacity to heal but am completely baffled by the goose-bumps that have been appearing on my right thigh in five minute intervals. My husband and friends assure me it isn't anything to worry about.

6. I will never have voluntary surgery!

7. My husband is the most wonderful man on the face of this earth! Our marriage definitely reached a new level when I asked him to grab the olive oil and help me remove the bandage that was permanently adhered to my "inguinal" area. TMI? Sorry.

8. There really is NOTHING good on television!

9. You always have a choice. No matter what the situation you have the power to choose how you are going to handle it. You can complain, mope, and pout or you can accept it for what it is and look for the blessings in the situation. I found that when I was forced to be still and alone after I quite complaining and feeling sorry for myself it didn't take much to look around and feel overwhelmingly blessed and loved.

10. Convalescence provides a great opportunity to write "Thank You" cards to all the beautiful people who helped see you through the hard times.

OH Brothers!

2009-07-08T12:08:00.001-07:00

On our camping trip this past weekend. Jay and Luke climbed into a chair together. "How sweet!" I thought. I grabbed my camera, sat back and got excited about capturing two loving brothers, snuggling up together, on a shared picnic chair.

This is what I got...

BROTHERS!

4th of July in McCall

2009-07-08T05:48:00.001-07:00

After three weeks of "summer flu" finally, everyone seemed healthy. We had the reservations and the friends already there. So, we loaded up the car and the boat and went to McCall for the Fourth of July! It was the best one we have had yet! Mountain air is good for the soul!

There were sailboats everywhere! This one was by far the most festive. The side says "Got Rum?"

Self-Portrait

Kindra took this picture of us in front of the Shore Lodge. I blogged about our visit there during the winter...it looked much different all covered in snow.

Dave and Kindra. Our friends. They have a camper...it has a bathroom!

This is Jay's favorite spot on the boat.

I don't think Luke was having any fun at all...poor kid.

Nor was his dad.

What isn't pictured are the fireworks we watched over McCall from the middle of Payette Lake in our boat. It was as if the show was just for us!!!! AMAZING!

Our camp site the next morning. RELAXING!!!!

Our trip to Arizona

2009-06-27T11:19:00.001-07:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Jay had a sleep-over...

2009-06-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

We went to the pool. This shot shot makes me laugh becasue of the big green alligator in the back-ground. Some animals just crave attention!

This is Jay's friend Javier. Isn't he cute?

Luke loves floating around in his water wings!

And his football.

And eating snacks while watching the other kids swim.

This morning Javier and Jay were reading the comic book together. I was trying to take their picture but Luke kept stepping in front of the lens...and I kept asking him to move. He finally realized what I was trying to capture so he joined in with the boys. Too funny!!!

Then some other boys from the block came over to play. I gave them the video camera and told them to have fun. They could make a commercial or a movie or whatever. Here they are filming the seventh Star Wars movie created by Javier. (Jay is Darth Vader and Cal is the "good guy.")

Ed is the camera man and movie director.

The "good guy" defeated Darth Vader! And the extra stole his mask!

Cal is still acting even though the camera is no longer rolling. He really got into his character!

Javier is enjoying his movie come to life. And still so darn cute!

Luke and Hank played cars. Around and around they went...so nicely!

Hank's car is making the jump!

Now Luke's...

Fun times!

Ironman 70.3 2009

2009-06-16T12:26:00.001-07:00

He did it again this year...Nick competed and finished the Boise Ironman 70.3. For those not familiar with self-torture practice of the Ironman, it is a 1.2 mile swim in open water followed by a 56 mile bike ride followed by a 13.1 mile run. Altogether 70.3 miles of fun! This year Nick not only finished but he beat is time in every event with a 20 minute overall improvement! I think it is particularly remarkable considering that for the majority of the bike ride and run it was raining. Not just sprinkling, full on thunderstorms, complete with high winds and pouring rain!

This is Nick before the start. I was impressed by how calm he was.

The bikes; all lined up in a row...just waiting.

Nick's age. I guess that would serve as an extra push for that 21-year-old behind him.

Just before the swim start. The clouds were dark and ominous but the storm held off until after the swim...thankfully.

Jay, giving his dad some last minute advice.

The Ironman is probably more of a mental undertaking than physical. Nick has more determination and is more downright stubborn than most people I know. I love this shot of him getting "his head into the game."

Jay watches as his dad moves closer to the water.

There he is...one of those green caps. See those swimmers way off into the distance they aren't even half way finished.

I didn't take many more pictures because of the rain...but I had to take one of the umbrella's lined up at the bike to run transition area. It was a wet, wet day!

Nick coming into T2. The bike and swim over, now just 13.1 miles of running.

The start of the run and he is smiling!

Finished! And still smiling! I am incredibly indebted to our friends, some of whom aren't pictured here, who stood out in the rain for hours until 10:30 at night to cheer Nick on. Amazing!

Finally, I have my camera back!

2009-05-26T10:58:00.001-07:00

But, unfortunately I forgot to take it with us on our first family camping trip ever! I can't believe it! I also forgot to brink chocolate for the s'mores. A s'more without chocolater really becomes more like a "n'thanks."

Here is Luke Sunday playing in the water table in our back yard.

Yes, those are the infamous red boots.

Brothers playing nicely together.

We HAD to have s'mores so we roasted marshmallows over the burner.

Monday afternoon we went back on the boat. The water is still too cold to wakeboard in but not too cold for tubing.

Happy Birthday To My Sweetie!!!

2009-05-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

Our trip to California...

2009-05-09T11:29:00.000-07:00

Madison is too cute for words! That's why I always take pictures!

I remember giving Jay a bath in that very same sink. It was just me though...he was very slippery and I was very nervous. It looks like more fun for everyone when Dad is around to hold and entertain the baby!

My other sweet niece, Nicole. Isn't she beautiful?!

Sarah & Carlos were joined in matrimony by none other than Nick.

Jay was the most handsome ring bearer!

The wedding was beautiful...almost as beautiful as the bride.

Congratulations Sarah & Carlos!

Luke was my second shooter. He did a great job! He got all the unflattering abdominal and leg shots.

Misc.

2009-04-30T05:40:00.000-07:00

It was going to be a beautiful day! Seventy degrees and sunny! Shorts weather!!! Nick got Luke dressed as I rushed around getting Jay off to school. I heard Nick trying to reason with Luke about shoes. Then I heard Luke crying. The crying stopped so I knew they had worked things out. Then I saw this...

Yep, Luke, dressed in shorts and t-shirt wearing his beloved red snow boots. I guess we know who won that one!

Jay brought home an art assignment. A life-sized cut-out of himself that he (me) had to glue to poster-board, cut out and then dress as what he wants to be when he grows up. At first I was annoyed with this project, but I have to admit it turned out pretty cute and Jay actually did the majority of the work.

The pink thing is a beaker in his hand.

BTW...Jay wants to be a scientist/inventor when he grows up. He wants to develop a dog collar that will translate barking into the English language. And he is presently working on designs for a car/airplane/boat. A push of a button and you have your vehicle of choice. Also this vehicle, for easy of parking and theft deterrence, can be shrunken to fit into your pocket.

Jay's First Holy Communion

2009-04-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

Jay received his first Holy Communion on Sunday. For born-again Christians it is very much like asking Jesus into your heart. For Catholics, Jesus is received through the Eucharist.

Jay took this very seriously, as did all the children. They looked so sweet and innocent. Especially the girls in their white gowns and veils.

Our friend made individual cakes for Ed and Nick (Jay).

Luke couldn't take his eyes off of them.

He finally got a piece after Jay. You can see there are still tears on his cheek...oh, the drama!!!

Luke with his favorite person in the WHOLE world...Olivia.

Coloring Easter Eggs

2009-04-13T12:19:00.000-07:00

Jay is so sweet.

He loves coloring eggs...and is good at it too.

Nobody has to help him anymore.

Nick got to help Luke while I took pictures.

Does he look like he is having fun or what?

Jay's turn to help Luke pick out stickers.

Just checking...patience for a two-year-old doesn't exist when it comes to Easter.

To kill time, Nick had Luke blow on the cup of dye.

All done!

Jay's First Wrestling Tournament

2009-04-05T10:49:00.001-07:00

Jay's coach give some advice between rounds. (The paper towel in the front of Jay's singlet is to wipe up any blood...what have we gotten into?)

Jay's division...Intermediate 55. Fifty-five pounds of pure muscle!!!

Spring Break Day One

2009-03-23T05:28:00.000-07:00

Notice anything about Luke's boots?

(he put them on himself...all by himself)

Pure

2009-03-21T07:00:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I experience a peace of mind and contentment that can only be described as pure Heaven. It was what I imagine Heaven will be like some day. It was the first day of spring and I was sitting outside enjoying the sunshine, listening to the birds chirp and watching my two-year-old entertain himself with his favorite outside toy, the water table. I felt nothing but pure contentment. Pure peace. Pure joy.

I love the way he holds his mouth when he is concentrating.

Luke insisted on wearing his hat even though it was soaking wet.

I love the back of his head. His hair is the perfect shade of blonde. In Heaven I can only hope my hair is this color. I wonder how much it would cost to get it this color on earth?

Luke finally realized he is cold and wet...and probably hungry.

Time to go in, change clothes and have a snack.

Pure love!

Happy Birthday Macie!

2009-03-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

My sweet niece Macie turned two yesterday! She is so smart and has so much personality. I love watching her grow up...only wish I was closer! Happy Birthday Macie!

(Photo taken by Jenny Campbell www.photojennette.com Colorado)

Triple Dog Dare...why do I fall for those?

2009-03-12T12:09:00.000-07:00

This morning I did what I do every morning...wake up before everyone else (so nobody talks to me), pour myself a cup of hot coffee, turn on my computer and read my friends' blogs. Usually, the first blog or two my eyes are still trying to focus...that is how fresh out of bed I am. Anyway, my eyes had just adjusted enough to read Britiney's blog when I got "triple dog dared" to do the most ridiculous thing...take a self-portrait right then and there. Obviously the coffee hadn't kicked in and I was not thinking clearly because I went for it.

The rules:

1. Take a picture of yourself right now. No primping or preparing. Just snap a picture.

(Maybe Britiney didn't realize how difficult that would be for me with my big camera.)

2. Load it onto your blog. (Check)

3. Tag three people to play. Remember, if you're tagged on another blog, we will all be heading to yours to see if you played along. Katherine, Anne & Liss (my Australian blogging buddy...but maybe not for long...she may divorce me as a blogging buddy after this)

Oh and here is Britiney's self-portrait. She obviously doesn't read blogs first thing in the morning. "As luck would have it" she was tagged with this triple dog dare right after returning home from getting a "sassy new haircut!"

Luke's New Tonka

2009-03-11T12:52:00.001-07:00

It even makes really loud "puttering" noises...just like a real truck! Thanks Granny & Papa. Maybe this could be a toy he has at your house.

A little party in my big bathtub...

2009-03-10T05:59:00.000-07:00

Nick's Wake-Up Plan

2009-03-09T12:30:00.001-07:00

Due to the time change, I had to wake the boys up this morning. I noticed Jay was sleeping with a folded piece of paper. Written last night, he let me read it. It is his "wake-up plan." And this is what it says:

Nick's Wake up plan

1. Get dressed once you wake up.

2. Once 7:00 mom or/and dad I'm awake.

3. Eat breacfast and brush teeth.

4. Get socks and shoes on and load backpack

5. Get backpack on leave with a happy smile with lucky charm.

Story Time

2009-03-09T05:23:00.001-07:00

This is what Jay looks like...

2009-03-07T05:48:00.001-08:00

When he sees his ride to his friend's birthday party.

Yep, a stretch Hummer H2 Limo!
My crazy friend invited 20 boys to her twin sons' birthday party and this was her solution for getting them all there. Pretty cool!

Happy Birthday Luke & Duncan!

My pride and joy...

2009-03-01T15:46:00.001-08:00

Guilty!

2009-02-27T10:56:00.001-08:00

I just saw Luke in our entry way. The look on his face told me he was up to no good. I didn't say a thing when suddenly he yelled, "no, no, NOOOOO!" and ran inside the coat closet and slammed the door behind him. Hmmmmm...

Turned out to be a poopy diaper. I can hardly wait for potty training.

Anne, Tony and Madison come to Idaho!

2009-02-25T05:22:00.000-08:00

She just gets cuter and cuter. Here is Madison getting some "belly" time.

And here I am, getting some "Madison" time.
Luke was interested in the baby, but not too interested, thankfully.
Jay thought she was pretty cool as well.

Jay and Luke admiring sweet Madison.

Anne or Tony took these great shots Sunday morning while Nick made waffles!

I was busy holding my niece.

I love this photo...I wish I could take credit for it.

Anne is such a fun aunt!

It won't fit...
Nope, nobody is getting to that baby!!!

Thanks for flying all the way to Idaho to spend the weekend with us!!!!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Luke!

2009-02-15T09:37:00.000-08:00

Jeremiah 29:12-13

2009-02-09T11:31:00.000-08:00

Today is Luke's second birthday! I can hardly believe he is two!! Anyway, in October, I wrote about Jay and how he is God's answer to my very selfish child-hood prayers for blue eyes. Every time I look into his beautiful blue eyes I see God's love for me. The same holds true for Luke, but in a different way. In his case, I see a very specific answer to years and years of a very specific prayer and one prayed by many…a prayer for a baby.

Many of you know that for Nick, one was enough. Whatever his reason, he was sure that our family was complete with one child. I, on the other hand, felt quite differently. When Jay was three, my desire to have another baby came with full force! I wanted another baby. I longed for another baby and I was very open about it. Nick was pretty much hounded night and day. Those of you, who know Nick, know that one of his greatest qualities is his steadfastness. He is solid as a rock and loyal to the end. He is resolute and committed and if he says he is going to do something, he does it. He is not a flake and he doesn't change is mind. Okay, on the other side of that same coin is man who can be somewhat stubborn. We laugh (now) that while I have the characteristics of an elm tree, he is most certainly an oak!

The Bible study I was attending here in Boise knew, in confidence, of our struggle. And they prayed for us. My friend Britiney said, in full confidence, "we'll just pray for God to change his heart." I laughed to myself and thought, “She obviously doesn’t know my husband.” I guess in a sense, as much as I wanted to believe God could change Nick’s heart I had my doubts. There were many people who prayed this same prayer, people who wanted us to have another baby almost as much as I did. My mom prayed. Nicks mom prayed. I prayed some more. After moving to North Carolina, my new Bible study prayed. I later found out, that unbeknownst to me, my dear friends Lori Jo and Andrea would meet and pray together for the desires of my heart. Even Jay started praying, not knowing of our strife (well, at least I don’t think he did), for a baby brother.

One day I was on a run with some friends discussing it and telling them that all I could do was pray. I couldn’t make Nick have another baby with me. He wasn’t giving in. And as desperate as I sometimes felt, I knew I would never scheme a baby out of him…although, honestly, the thought had crossed my mind. I said to one friend, “all I can do is pray that God will change his heart.” Her reply was, “praying isn’t going to get you pregnant.” Sadly, I half-heartedly believed her.

Then after three years of praying and scheming and begging and pleading, arguments and resentment, and praying some more, Nick and I sought counseling…Godly counseling from Chaplain Zaccardi. And then something remarkable happened, Nick and I started praying together. Then the astounding, I started seeing my husband again, the one who I fell in love with and my desire, this overpowering need to have another baby, started to wane. I was reminded of the beautiful life God had provided for me, a loving and devoted husband and beautiful, healthy, blue-eyed son. All the while the miraculous was happening, Nick heard God’s voice and his heart changed too. And today, we have Luke.

Many of you are familiar with Jeremiah 29:11 a beautiful verse; "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Read on through verse 13; "Then you will call upon me and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

Happy Birthday Luke. I love you!!!

P.S. I can’t help but to point out God’s magnificent timing. Most obvious is for me, Luke came into my life after I found peace in my circumstance and a renewed admiration and love for my husband. But Luke also came into this world at a time when a woman battling cancer desperately needed to know God heard her prayers and at a time when a little boy was learning his first lessons on faith. He came after some had given up hope and when many had probably forgotten.

A Fun Idea!

2009-02-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

I saw this idea over on Britiney's blog and thought I'd play along. Here's how it goes . . . The first five people to respond to this post with a comment will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer has some restrictions and limitations:
1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make.
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It'll be done this year.
4. You will not have a clue what it's going to be. It may be a story. It may be poetry or an article on properly cleaning your toilet or laundry or (fill in the blank). I may draw or craft something. I may bake you something. Who knows? Not you. That's for sure!
The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must repost this on your blog (or facebook/myspace page) and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog.
The first 5 people to do so, and leave a comment telling me they did, win a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift made by me! Oh and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it!
Good Luck!!

My Little Multi-Tasker

2009-02-05T13:34:00.001-08:00

I am so proud!

Wanna see...

2009-02-04T11:26:00.001-08:00

...what an eight-year-old, boy, sleep over looks like? Here is the tamed down version minus the wrestling, popcorn, and endless trips to the bathroom...

At last, they are all laying down, in their sleeping bags enjoying Speed Racer.

Breakfast. I made cinnamon rolls.

Their plates are clean but I noticed the strawberries are all there.
Luke is playing Rock Band...or at least he thinks so.
Of course, he had to get in on all the action!

Eddie sings "Mississippi Queen"

Guitar right, drums left.

I love all the blank, zombie stares. This band needs a little more caffeine or something!

Oh, and my house was a WRECK!

Apology

2009-02-03T10:22:00.001-08:00

I need to apologize for my rant in the previous post. I don't hate Oprah. I think she does a lot of good in this world. I just don't like her favorite things show. I LOVE the Super Bowl and thought this past one was the best game ever! I don't know what was up with me. My husband even asked "what was up with that post?" The only answer I can come up with is hormones.

It's a new day. I am back to my old self and I still want what other people have...and I am fine with it.

Human Nature

2009-01-31T05:32:00.000-08:00

What is it about humans nature to want what someone else has? This question arose as I was thinking about this post and the story behind the sunglasses. It started with a fight. A fight over a fireman's hat. This hat has been in our closet since Jay was four. That is a good two years before Luke was ever born. He has never been the least bit interested in the fireman's hat, that is, until Hank was wearing it. Then it became Luke's quest...his "must have!" He would stop at nothing to get that hat! First, he tried taking it right off of Hank's head. Have you seen Hank? He is a good six inches taller than Luke. He has not one, but two older brothers, that he is constantly fending off. Luke didn't stand a chance. Now this hat, that Hank was starting to lose interest in became his most prized possession! Suddenly an old, beat up, plastic fireman's hat was something of great worth and no other hat would do and there was a real problem in my living room!

Initially, this post was just going to be a funny story about how Luke is in a phase where he only wants what another child has. It occurred to me that this is not just a phase in toddler-hood but true for any age. Well, maybe every stage of life, I don't know, so far in my thirty-something years it has been true for me. And the more I think about it, I really think it is what drives the world.

Kids:"Mom, can I have a DS? Isaac has one."

Teenagers: Oh, boy this is really true for them, I mean really, the pants around the middle of the hiney with the underwear sticking out? Need I say more?

Women: "Oooooh, I love your bag, where did you get it?" (the list is endless here too)

Men: Sees a gang of Harley riders and goes off into a distant stare, dreaming and wondering if it might be possible...

I think the best example of it, for women, is Oprah's Favorite Things! Oh, how I hate that show! (I don't use that word lightly and forgive me for this little tangent). One show, one hour, she goes on and on and makes this big "to do" about all HER (very expensive) favorite things and gives them away to her audience. People scream and cry and lose their minds over a pair of stretchy pants. And all I can think is, "I want those pants. Oprah says they make every hiney look great. I want my hiney to look great too...where can I get a pair?" NOWHERE!!! Every store that ever carried them has sold out in an hour flat and is on back-order for three years! I can't watch that show and quite frankly I can't watch Oprah at all anymore because it makes me sick. Okay, my 37-year-old temper tantrum is over.

As for men, it is the Superbowl. How much does a commercial cost during the Superbowl? Some ridiculous amount. Just to show us what someone else has so we will want one too.

We all do it. It is human nature. Toddlers are just more honest about it.

The problem was resolved with sunglasses. Thankfully, I had two pairs.

Two Peas in a Pod

2009-01-28T05:08:00.000-08:00

Friends Award

2009-01-26T11:03:00.000-08:00

My new Aussie blogging buddy, Liss (A Memory Forever), named me for this fabulous award on her blog a few days ago. I was so surprised and completely honored that she thought my blog was worthy of a "Friends Award." And she even wrote the nicest things about me and my blog.

Friends Award Rule: These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find, and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award

So, I hereby award the Friends Award to the following friends:

Consider the Lillies: Britiney is a good friend of mine and I truly enjoy her blog. She has a nice mix displaying her art, stamping, and sharing her personal life. I enjoy seeing her cards as much as photos of her three precious boys. Britiney shares her faith and she makes me laugh.

Familia Hanson: Nayibe is another good friend of mine. I admire her tremendous courage for giving up many of her possessions and taking a huge leap of faith by moving to Columbia with her family on a quest to adopt a baby girl. It hasn't be easy but she chronicles her experiences with joy and a great sense of humor. And when you visit her blog you get to hear great Spanish Praise music!

Macie Days: Of course I HAVE to include Macie Days! Katherine is my sister and best friend. She started me on the whole blogging thing. I visit her blog daily to see what my sweet niece is upto and into. Katherine has so many precious videos and again, a great sense of humor. And she makes me laugh.

Six Peeps: This blog belongs to my brother...a tremendously talented photographer and a very funny guy. I think he started blogging even before Katherine. He has certainly been an inspiration to me as a photographer and has taught me most of what I know about the art. I just wish I had an ounce of his creativity. And he makes me laugh.

Texas Trio:This is a new blog but one that I am sure will take off! This blog started with Madison who is only seven weeks old. I look forward to seeing more cute photos of my sweet niece and hearing of their adventures as a new family.

The Young, The Restless, and The Mom: Jennifer is another good friend. I enjoy her blog and her no-nonsense approach to mothering. Her blog is a completely humble and honest account of her experiences mothering two young boys. And she makes me laugh.

Of course I would give this award right back to A Memory Forever. Liss is a very talented photographer and seems to be a very vibrant and fun mom! She too has a great sense of humor and makes me laugh. Maybe some day we'll meet for drinks.

Win-Win

2009-01-23T12:43:00.001-08:00

Nick J. REALLY wanted to get Luke ready for bed. Change his diaper and everything. Luke often gives me a hard time getting dressed. But for some reason he completely cooperated with Jay. I would say this a is a WIN WIN situation! And Jay's new job!!!

Sweet Madison

2009-01-20T11:38:00.001-08:00

I just returned from a heavenly trip to Texas where I got some great bonding time with my sweet niece, Madison.

A date with the boys...

2009-01-15T05:25:00.000-08:00

Saturday, it was cold outside. Last week's little "heat wave" had melted all the snow. The boys were going a bit stir crazy...and so was I. I've had enough movie watching and Wii playing to last the rest of the year. So, I took the boys to Ceramica and of course, brought my camera. Going through the photos was eye-opening. I understand there is a six year difference in age between my two boys but these photos reveal their personality differences as well. Check it out...

Nick

Luke
Nick
Luke
Nick

Luke

Nick

Luke

Nick

Luke (he is obviously over his "no messy hands" phase)

Nick

Luke

Little Thrills

2009-01-10T06:02:00.001-08:00

We've recently experienced a little "heat wave" which has melted most of the snow that had accumulated over the past month. All that remains are the teeny, tiny, mounds that were built up from shovelling the driveway. But apparently, that's enough...

Luke

2009-01-09T07:51:00.000-08:00

Luke will be 23 months tomorrow, marking the last month I can refer to his age in months. Unless I want to be one of "those moms" who can't accept the fact their child is getting older and continues to name their age by months instead of years. "Luke? Oh, he is 239 months." There is a very good chance I may be one of "those moms." My heart aches a little when I see how big he is getting...it is a weird feeling though, mixed with pure joy.

He is all about his big brother." Whatever Jay is doing you can be sure Luke is right there along side trying to do the same thing. We fittingly call him "ditto." Here Jay is doing his homework and there sits Luke, doing his too.

Brushing teeth and acting silly? Ditto.
Sledding? Ditto.
And Jay is a great big brother and a good sport.

Yesterday, in an attempt to teach Luke his colors I brought out the finger paints. He, however, didn't like the feel of the paint on his fingers so it became just ordinary painting. Every color is green.

"Luke, what color is that?" (me pointing to the blue)

"Gee"

"Luke, what color is this?" (yellow)

"Gee"

"Luke, what color are your boots?" (red)

"Gee"

"Luke, what color are my boots?" (black)

"Gee"

"Luke, what color is the broccoli?" (green)

"Gee"

"YAY!!! GOOD JOB!!!! You are so smart!!!! The broccoli IS green!!!"

Besides green being his favorite color, his favorite books are Good Dog Carl, Carl Goes Shopping, Sit Truman and How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight. He loves goldfish crackers "fishies," lollipops "pop-pops" and "cookies." He tolerates and will eat almost any fruit and some vegetables. Occasionally he will devour a hotdog but mainly he is a carb person, loving cereal, cream of wheat and pasta. Luke LOVES animals, especially dogs. His favorite show are movies. He loves Wall-E and Nemo and could watch them over and over if I let him. He still plays with his cars in the window and is presently doing so. He's precious!

Luke has reached the stage of wanting to do everything himself. He puts his boots on all by himself and takes his coat and sometimes pajamas off, all by himself. I went to check on him one night and he was completely out of his p.j.s but thankfully still wearing a diaper.

Luke is compassionate and loving. Any sign of distress (especially in his big brother) and Luke is right there with a hug. He is THE BEST cuddler! He still sucks on the middle two fingers of his left hand but will pull them out if we ask him too...but only for a moment. His new-found talent is sucking his middle two fingers and picking his nose with his pointer...this is a habit we are working very hard to break. He is very independent. He throws away his own trash and gets his own snacks and water...and is proud of himself each time. When he spills his water, he goes into the pantry, gets a towel, wipes up the mess and puts the towel back in the pantry.

Well, here he comes, red (or green) boots on with his pajamas wanting them tightened, fingers in his mouth. I will sign off here and go play with my baby before he turns into a little boy. Okay, okay, I know...he already is...

Weekend in McCall

2009-01-05T13:30:00.001-08:00

Luke kicking the snow.

Nick and Luke exploring. We stayed at the Shore Lodge which is a "lodge for all seasons."

Nick must think it is summer.
This was the view from our room.
Our first night...time for bed. We were all wound up!
I don't think any of us (except Nick) slept at all.

Luke trying to be silly like his big brother.

In the morning the mist was rising off the lake.

It was so beautiful!

This pier is probably full of activity during the summer.

But in the winter it just looks desolate and cold.

This is where we spent most of our time...on the slopes!

No photos skiing/snow-boarding. My camera is TOO big and I am not nearly coordinated enough to try handling it while skiing. I would have loved to have gone crazy taking photos though...there was so much to photograph! Mainly Jay haulin' the mail down the bunny hill and on day two from the top of the mountain!

This is Jay on the drive home. Tired but happy.

Nick drove and was a good sport about all my picture taking in the car...the flash was going everywhere!

Luke was sitting behind me watching Wall-e so no shots of him. He was probably sucking his fingers and picking his nose at the same time...his new-found talent.

Thank you Nick for the WONDERFUL weekend get-away!

2008 Resolution Update

2009-01-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

Okay, I guess it is time for more honesty here. Someone, who shall remain annonymous (but who I am related to and is the mother of Macie) brought it to my attention that maybe I was overzealous last year with my resolutions. So, I took a look back and have decided to publicly announce which ones stuck and which ones failed...miserably.

"I have decided I need a major over-haul this year. Not that I don't love myself but I have definitely let a lot of things go. So, in order to be accountable I am posting my New Year's Resolutions for everyone to see. They are in no particular order of importance. And if any of you think I have missed something, please feel free to bring it to my attention:
1. Walk or Jog at least 30 minutes, five days/week...sometimes
2. Eat an apple every day...I think I may have consumed five throughout the entire year.
3. Be less critical of people...especially my family...sorry guys
4. Be more tolerant of people...especially my family...failed there too.
5. Promptly write "thank you" notes...getting better but still...no....
6. Send birthday cards to everyone I love...on time...I think I made it through February
7. Complete "Purpose Driven Life"...I can't even remember starting it.
8. Pray each morning before starting my day...about 50/50...okay 25/75...well, maybe 15/85
9. Find a Bible study...YAY!!! Yippeee....score ONE for Gina
10. Start weekly one-on-one traditions with my boys...this one makes me sad...it was a good idea too.
11. Lose the baby fat (mine, not Luke's)...lost then found again
12. Spend less time on the computer...by checking e-mail only twice a day...have any of you seen my facebook entries...that really says it all.
13. Start a load of laundry every morning...well, in all honesty it has to get done and does...that was a dumb resolution.
14. Fold and put away a load of laundry every evening...folded yes, put away, no.
15. Eat more vegetables...during my brief time on South Beach diet I did eat more veggies.
16. Floss (I already do that, but resolve to keep it up)...YIPPEEE...score TWO for Gina!
17. Drink two cups of Oolong tea each day...and or green tea...nope
18. Put away Christmas decorations in a timely manner...by January 5...I hope I at least got this one but I wouldn't be surprised if I didn't. But does it really matter? Gina...what were you thinking?
19. Paint every room in my house...I got the entry-way and halls painted...not bad.
20. Get myself together first thing every morning...showered, dressed, teeth brushed and flossed, make-up on...regardless of what my daily activities include...even working out (after I pray, of course)...nope
21. Read more...doubt it
22. Watch less TV...definitely failed here too.
23. Be more appreciative of Nick...I will have to ask Nick but am afraid he will laugh
24. Keep a blessings journal...not one entry
25. Donate free family portraits to the women's and children's shelter...this was a good one too and I am terribly ashamed I didn't follow through here.
26. Don't eat anything with sugar, white enriched flour, high fructose corn syrup, partially hydrogenate oil, or saturated fat in the first 5 ingredients of any food...HAHAHA...this one makes me laugh! Was I on crack when I wrote this?
27. Don't eat artificial sweeteners, fructose or dextrose...two packs of splenda in my coffee EVERY morning.
28. Live fabulously and with enthusiasm...Oh brother!!!!
29. Speak more enthusiastically!!! and with more inflections...that is a ridiculous resolution!
30. Keep my eyebrows plucked and polished looking and lip waxed...no hair on my face this year!!!...necessity...does that count as following through?
Okay, I think that is enough to keep me busy. Now, I will start on Nick's list of resolutions...just kidding...see resolutions numbers 3 & 4 above..."less critical, more tolerant!!!" (oh, and number 23 "be more appreciative of Nick").
Wishing you all peace in 2008.
Love, Gina

Well, I think this time, last year I had definitely LOST it! What was I thinking with so many resolutions? I think I probably felt the same way last year that I do now, which is the realization that there is a lot of room for improvement in my life. In pretty much every area I can still grow. So, this year, I resolve to not make any resolutions but to just keep plugging away at being a better person.

I pray that 2009 will be a year that blesses you all!

Ten Interesting (possibly) and Honest (definitely) Things About Me

2008-12-30T07:48:00.001-08:00

My new-found Australian blogging buddy, Liss, from A Memory Forever wrote a post of "Ten Honest and Interesting Things" about herself. It WAS interesting. So, I am copying her...here goes:

10. Before becoming a stay-at home-mom at the age of 28 I held the following jobs; baby-sitter, convenience store clerk (but only on Sunday because I was too young to sell beer), grocery bagger, hostess, United States Air Force airman, air traffic controller (in the USAF), Pub "bartender" in Cambridge England, dental assistant, and neuro-psych technician at Duke Medical Center. I am presently earning a little extra spending money as a photographer.

9. I have jumped out of a perfectly good (well, maybe) airplane at 3000 ft. AGL.

8. I have jumped off a platform and plunged to the ground with a bungee cord tied around my waist.

7. I am afraid to dive head first into a swimming pool.

6. While working at Duke I often subjected myself to medical experiments to earn some extra spending money.

5. I met my husband through his at the time fiance (who was, at the time my good friend)...no, I had nothing to do with their break-up! And no, we are not really friends anymore.

4. One of my good habits is that no matter how tired I am, I absolutely cannot go to bed without washing my face and brushing and flossing my teeth.

3. My greatest fear is cancer, which has led to an unfortunate consequence to those around me. After reading that anti-perspirant and deodorant can contribute to breast cancer I stopped wearing it. So, sometimes I have stinky armpits...especially when I work out. (I am afraid that may have been too honest and not at all interesting to many of you.)

2. Some of the hobbies I have tried in an attempt to be more creative are: jewelry making, stamping (see Britiney's blog for someone truly talented here), crocheting, quilting, knitting (briefly), and finally photography. It is the most expensive...my husband is very thankful it stuck.

And the number one honest and interesting thing about me (drum roll please...) is... I am a secret spy. I do covert missions in the middle of the night while my children sleep. I have my pilot's licence and fly the stealth bomber to unknown lands (hint: Area 51 in Las Vegas) I can't tell you anymore or I will have to kill you...with my bare hands. Okay, okay, not at all honest but definitely more interesting than the truth of the matter...I can't think of a number one honest and interesting thing about myself...I only have nine.

That is me in the middle with my brother and sister. How do you like those green, whale, leg-warmers? I hear they are making a come back. Not really sure what this photo has to do with this post...I guess it is my number one honest although not interesting thing about me...I am a true geek...always have been, always will be...

Okay, now it's your turn...

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-26T08:01:00.001-08:00

The Northern Express

2008-12-24T07:54:00.000-08:00

Cut short by shattered glass...

2008-12-19T13:17:00.000-08:00

First Snow

2008-12-17T13:43:00.000-08:00

We got totally dumped on! Our high tomorrow is going to be 17 with a low of 0 (yes that is a very round ZERO). I love it! This weather totally puts me in the Christmas spirit!!!

Luke gets a nice sloppy kiss from Diesel. Jay was kind of grouchy in the previous pictures. So I mentioned maybe he should change his attitude since most likely Santa's elves are out watching. I got a little smile.

I'm an Aunt!

2008-12-11T08:09:00.001-08:00

Remember these people?

This is Anne and Tony on their combined bachelor/bachelorette party in 2007.

Well, on Sunday December 7th they welcomed sweet Madison Jaqueline into the world!
Making me an Aunt for the third time!!!

Congratulations Anne and Tony!

Female Bonding In Colorado

2008-12-09T10:16:00.001-08:00

I just returned from my annual "female bonding" shopping trip in Colorado with my mom and sister. This year, as wonderful treat, my mom's sister Aunt Peggy joined us. And as an extra special treat so did Macie, my niece. It was so much fun!

Mom, Me, Peggy, Katherine and Macie unwinding after a long day of shopping in our hotel room with a glass of champagne.

Macie is saying "mommy's juice."
Macie got into the spirit of the occasion by donning her glamorous "must have" of the season.

I think she's upset we didn't spend more time in Macy's.

Nothing a little coloring can't help.

What a fun weekend!

2008-11-28T13:35:00.000-08:00

2008-11-26T18:14:00.001-08:00

Cars

2008-11-20T06:05:00.000-08:00

I cherish these images. This is Luke. He is all about cars these days...and motorcycles. I almost always find him playing with them by the window. He makes the car sounds and crashes them into each other and rolls them along the windowsill. Wherever there is Luke, there is a car in hand.

I smile.

Bus Stop

2008-11-13T12:25:00.001-08:00

Almost every day, the highlight of Luke's day is going to the bus stop to meet Jay's bus. The moment he sees that bus turn the corner, his face lights up and he makes a bee line to my leg.

I couldn't get a good shot of him today because he had a death grip on my leg. His excitement is palpable!

The students pour out of the bus like mad-men! And as soon as Jay sees Luke, the chase is on...

Jay is not the only one to chase and greet Luke. He is also pursued by a lot of the other kids from the block. But his absolute favorite is the girl in blue, Olivia. I have never seen a toddler flirt the way he does with her. She is so sweet and she gives him so much attention.

I've been busy lately...

2008-11-11T05:27:00.001-08:00

It is family portrait season and pretty much every weekend I have had the pleasure of spending an hour or two in a beautiful park on a gorgeous day with lovely families. I don't consider it work at all. It's a privledge and an honor. Anyway, here are some of my personal favorites.

Movie Night

2008-11-04T05:24:00.001-08:00

Saturday night we watched "Journey to the Center of the Earth" in 3-D! Jay lasted all of five minutes with those paper glasses on before we changed movies to "Journey to the Center of the Earth" in 2-D.

Luke didn't even last that long. Those 3-D paper glasses were not his friend...and he wasn't theirs.

Threatened Tigger Seeks Protection

2008-11-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Wrongly accused of steeling Pooh's honey, Tigger found himself imprisoned in his own home for fear of retaliation. He alleges that he has been receiving threatening phone calls and swears he saw Eeyore stalking him on the playground.

Desperately wanting to go Trick-Or-Treating, Tigger sought the protective service of...

The Big Brother NINJA Company!
The President of the Big Brother NINJA Company, who would like to remain anonymous, told reporters Friday that Tigger would be unharmed on Halloween. "We have our number one ninja on the case" she promises, "nobody with mess with Tigger tonight!"

Record Breaking Lows

2008-10-30T05:26:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had record breaking low temperatures and record breaking snowfall. The next morning Boise was literally iced over. But we still had a soccer game. The ice on the field and the mist in the air, children bundled from head to toe, made for some good photography.

Luke is pouting because I won't let him eat his goldfish crackers off the ground.

This boy on Nick's team is an Afghan refugee.

Brrrrrrrrr

Grandpa and Luke play soccer.

Setting up...

He flies!

James 1:17

2008-10-10T05:06:00.001-07:00

"Every good and perfect gift is from above..."

When I was a little girl I wanted blue eyes. I wanted them SO badly that the thought pretty much consumed me. My favorite song was by Chrystal Gail, "Don't it make my brown eyes blue." I listened to that song over and over and thought if it can happen to her, then it can happen to me. I also loved her long, long hair. Anyway, my mom always told me to ask God in prayer for what I wanted so every night before bed I would kneel down before Him and ask for blue eyes. Every morning I would wake up and disappointedly see the same brown eyes staring back at me in the mirror. When I was older, I thought my prayers had been answered when the eyeglass company came out with blue contact lenses. But my vision was too good, nobody would give me a prescription.

As I got older and wiser I came to a place in my life where I could accept that God had given me brown eyes for a reason and that they were not going to change so I had better start loving them and the fact that they worked really well. Which, after being married to a man who has to put contacts in every morning just to find his way to the coffee, is a true blessing. Eventually, I forgot that prayer. But God didn't. On October 10th, 2000, I received my answer.

I was 28 when Nick Joseph was born. During my pregnancy I had a dream about this child growing inside me. He looked just like his dad, mustache and everything, except that he had blue eyes and blonde hair. We all had a good laugh at that one! Imagine, me and Nick, both as dark as can be having a blonde hair, blue-eyed baby! At his birth the nurse told me; "he has a lot of hair...and it's blonde!" Sure enough, she was right and his hair continued getting lighter and lighter. But the remarkable, miraculous thing to me is that his eyes are the bluest of blue. Ocean blue. Blueberry blue. Beautiful blue! It occurred to me just a few years ago that those blue eyes were God's answer. He heard my prayers as a little girl and he answered them in a way far beyond my most wild imagination. Every time I look into Jay's blue eyes I see love; God's love for a little girl who was and still is flawed beyond measure! I am reminded that God hears every prayer and He answers them. Maybe not in a way we expect Him to, but in a way that IS flawless and in accordance with His divine and perfect plan.

James 1:17-18 "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created."

Happy Birthday Jay!

I love you!!!

Buddies

2008-10-02T04:57:00.001-07:00

This is Hank. He looks like he is going on twelve but he just turned two. Seriously. He is Luke's first real friend. As you can see, Hank is a bit of a bruiser. He is the youngest of three boys. We, very fittingly, call him "Hank the Tank."

Two toddlers on a joy ride in the middle of the street....what could go wrong?
I just love these little guys! I know having Hank as his friend, Luke will be very protected at school...or, at the very least grow up pretty tough.
Moments later Luke fell out of the car. I think he had had enough of being the passenger.
Luke's turn to drive! Watch out Diesel!!!
Hey, who's watching the road?

Yep. they're buds!

After Practice Treat

2008-10-01T07:44:00.001-07:00

Piggy-Back Ride...

2008-10-01T06:57:00.000-07:00

So fun!

Luke is all about the skateboard these days...

2008-09-21T14:48:00.001-07:00

Randomness...

2008-09-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

You know those personality questionnaires that are forwarded continually through e-mail? You know, the ones that ask you a million very important questions like whether you prefer chocolate or vanilla, your favorite sounds, what you are wearing on your feet...RIGHT NOW, etc... You have to answer the questions, honestly and then send them to a hundred of your (previous) friends so they can get to know you better. I think the real thing they learn about you is you have too much time on your hands. I do love getting those questionnaires back and reading other people's answers though, especially my brother's. He always cracks me up.

Anyway, I have been thinking lately that I haven't received one in a long time. And I kind of want to so I can change one of my answers. I always answer that my biggest fear is sharks. They REALLY scare me, especially when I am in the ocean. But recently, I read that more people are killed each year by coconuts falling on their heads than by shark attacks. So, I want receive one of those questionnaires so I can change my answer. My biggest fear is no longer sharks, I am now most fearful of coconuts. Yes, my biggest fear is that a coconut will fall on my head, unbeknownst to m, and kill me. Another reason I am so glad that I live in Idaho!

13 Years Ago Today...

2008-09-16T14:23:00.001-07:00

One wedding dress on sale from Macy's: $100.00

A wedding in Cambridge England: $500.00 (after conversion)

Reception at the Four Horseshoes for 40 guests: $1000.00

Hospital bills for the birth of two children: $8000.00

One new house in Boise Idaho: $189,000.00

13 Years of a Beautiful Marriage: PRICELESS!

Happy Anniversary!

Yesterday...

2008-09-12T05:53:00.000-07:00

I was getting ready in my bathroom. Of course, Luke was in there getting into all of the drawers and pulling everything out. He was happy, therefore, so was I. He was talking away to me in his whole unknown language. Unknown, that is, to everyone but him, he certainly seems to know what he is saying. Then, from out of the blue, he said as clear as day, "bye-bye," waved and left the room.

Jay brought home his school work from the previous week. They are learning "less than" and "greater than." All of Jay's signs had big jagged teeth on them.

I love my life.

"The wise man is always similar to himself."

2008-09-11T05:25:00.000-07:00

I love this excerpt from Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert:

"I've always been so fascinated by these wraith-like, delicate souls. Always wanted to be the quiet girl. Probably precisely because I'm not. It's the same reason I think that thick, dark hair is so beautiful - precilsely because I don't have it, because I can't have it. But at some point you have to make peace with what you were given and if God wanted me to be a shy girl with thick, dark, hair, He would have made me that way, but He didn't. Useful, then, might be to accept how I was made and embody myself fully therein.

Or, as Sextus, the ancient Pythagorian philospher, said, 'The wise man is always similar to himself.'"

What a babe!

2008-09-09T06:03:00.000-07:00

This is what I would have looked like in 1954. I was looking at blogs this morning and found this link to Yearbook Yourself on my friend Sara's blog Read Write Believe.

This is me the year I was born...1971 For another laugh, here is my actual yearbook photo. I think I thought I was really hot! I know I had the biggest hair in school!

This is what Yearbook Yourself turned up for the year I graduated, 1990. It's pretty close to the real thing...but my hair was still bigger.

Weekend Images

2008-09-08T05:49:00.001-07:00

Luke playing nicely with the "Choo Choo."

Do you think someone has control issues?

Jay had to blind-fold himself and plug his nose to eat the grilled cheese sandwich I made him.

A little over dramatic don't you think?
Luke LOVES playing at the water table. I just have to keep him from drinking that dirty water.
"Hmmmm, she won't let me drink this dirty water...what shall I do?

I wonder if this will work...
I guess not."
"Jay, stop swinging that around!"
"Who me?"

The Fire Cheetas!

2008-09-06T15:34:00.001-07:00

Jay had his first soccer game of the season this morning. It was beautiful outside and he played like a champ! I was so proud!!!

The name of his team is "The Fire Cheetas." Luke misunderstood...he kept waiting for them to break out the Cheetos.
Guess who reffed? Yeah, we won!!!
This is what Jay looked like when the game was over...

Happy Happy Joy Joy

2008-08-29T05:10:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's post was a little dark so I thought maybe I would lighten things up today. I thought these photos of Luke in a pink jeep might do the trick. They make me smile from the inside out! This is our friend's daughter's jeep. Luke loves steering wheels and the moment he saw it he wanted in. He was perfectly content to sit in a non-moving vehicle and pretent he was driving. I was happy that he was contained...for the moment. Kim, showed him how to work the gas pedal.

This is why toddlers shouldn't drive. He was always looking behind.

Until he ran into something...like Kim's beautiful garden.

Oh, and Kim I haven't forgotten to replace your garden light.
Is this the picture of joy or what? Nick wanted all of these in black and white...he didn't want pictures posted of Luke having so much fun in a PINK jeep. That just isn't very manly.
Add a dog to the mix...Oh, he is over the moon!
All done.
What a ride!

Four Alarm Fire

2008-08-28T06:10:00.001-07:00

This was the scene Monday, just a few miles from my home. A four alarm fire burned at least ten homes to the ground. One woman lost her life. Jay and I drove to check it out and among a sea of spectators we watched helplessly as fire consumed ridge. I took a few photos but felt guilty about it. Somehow someone else's loss as fodder for my blog just didn't seem right. But there we all were...watching. As I looked around I saw sadness and concern in everyone's eyes...

...and then I noticed this. A beautiful sunset. It seemed ironic to me. How could there be something so magnificent happening in the same atmosphere as something so destuctive?

It reminded me of God's love. Unceasing, ever-present love for us. Even when we think he has forsaken us and we turn our backs on Him he is still there. "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
2 Corinthians 4:18

First day of SECOND grade!

2008-08-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

Luke is trying to steal the spotlight. It is Jay's big day and there he is, half way around the block. Luke, having tasted freedom, is on the loose and very happy. Now that I think about it, I have to wonder if Jay is trying to loose me. He never walks that fast.

That's better. Jay's first day of second grade. I can't believe it! He is growing up too fast. He didn't want me to go with him to the bus stop. I thought for sure it would be okay for me to follow him to the bus stop and take his picture as he is getting on the bus well into Elementary School and maybe Junior High. But alas, I think this is my last year...maybe.
I hope he finds his classroom okay and I hope the kids are nice to him.

Boondocks Birthday Party

2008-08-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

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