The Hanel 5

Crazy Life

2009-09-04T00:10:00.003-07:00

Now that the girls are back in school things have been CRAZY!!

Taylor made the Excel (club) soccer team. After months of tryouts she is on the team. Her number is 33. It was Jer's football number. They train with trainer 1 night a week and have regular practice 1 night week. Rylee is doing Cheer again this year and they practice 1 night a week and games will start later this month. Here's a look at our week!

Monday-
Up at 7am.
Girls to school by 7:45am (school starts at 7:55am)
Pick up the girls at 3pm
Girls have a snack then do home work.
I usually start some sort of dinner.
At 4:30 Tay gets ready for soccer practice with the trainer We are gone from 4:50-6:20.
Jer may finish dinner takes Rylee to vocal lessons at 5:45. I pick her up at 6:15
Home dinner showers bed!

Tuesday-
Up at 6:30.
Girls to school by 7:45am (school starts at 7:55am)
Then I go to work at my friends in home day care (I help her Tues and Wed)
Pick up the girls at 3pm
Girls have a snack then do home work.
I make dinner.
At 4:30 Rylee and I eat dinner then she gets ready for cheer practice We are gone from 5:05-7pm.
Home showers bed!

Wednesday-
Up at 6:30.
Girls to school by 7:45am (school starts at 7:55am)
Then I go to work at my friends in home day care
Pick up the girls at 3pm
Girls have a snack then do home work.
I make dinner.
At 5pm We all eat then Tay gets ready for soccer practice We are gone from 5:45 - 7:45
Home showers bed!

Thursday-
Up at 7am.
Girls to school by 7:45am (school starts at 7:55am)
Pick up the girls at 3pm
Girls have a snack then do home work.
I make dinner.
We get to relax and be a family. Watch some TV
Kids shower and are in bed by 8:30!

Friday-
Up at 7am.
Girls to school by 7:45am (school starts at 7:55am)
Pick up the girls at 3pm
Take Rylee to Piano lessons 3:30-4pm
After that we get to relax for the weekend but not for long

Taylor's 1st soccer game is the weekend of the 19. Some weekends she may play up to 4 games and we will be traveling to new fields plus tournaments.

Rylee will start to cheer at football games at the end of the month on Friday nights.

Do you think we are busy?

Let's not forget to mention. I have a 2 year mixed in with all of this and a house to clean. laundry to do! Life of a mom!!! I LOVE IT@

My New Couch!!

2009-08-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

My New couch arrived today!! I am so exicted. It looks great! WE love it!!

Back to school!!!

2009-08-20T23:50:00.001-07:00

Summer is officially over in our House Hold! The girls started school August 10. They were very excited to head back and meet their teachers and see their friends.

My Rylee girl is officially in 1st grade. Rylee was supposed to have Taylor's 1st grade teacher but she ended up switching grade levels a week before school started. I was VERY sad. But I do like her teacher Mrs. Wood. She has been a teacher for a VERY long time and is very loving and nice. Rylee really likes her and has some old friends in the class. She also has made some new ones.

Can you Believe Taylor is in 3rd grade? As for Taylor's teacher ... we had heard stories. Nothing Great but nothing too bad. I was a little concerned because we weren't happy with her teacher last year. Miss. Isaman is VERY strict but after meeting her at Curriculum Night and hearing her talk about things I was very impressed. She is older never been married with no kids. She is a bigger lady and really doesn't have a life outside of school. In a way it's great! She is very organized and on top of things but she is a little grumpy at times. Taylor's 3rd grade class was the only one to have homework the 1st day or all the 1st week. She even had a spelling test. I know Miss. Isaman will have her kids very prepared and she wont take nonsense.

I am looking forward to all that the girls will be learning this year. Tay starts in the computer lab this year. She will also learn multiplication and division and cursive hand writing. Rylee will make leaps and bounds in her reading and writing. It will be lots of fun!

I made the girls both home work studios. They are full of all the supplies they will need to complete their home work. Plus it helps to keep them focused. I found the idea in a parenting magazine I get. So far they have been working great! The girls have done really good on their spelling tests and we have a good system down!

Hair Cut Please

2009-08-10T23:42:00.000-07:00

So Diesel was going potty and found a pair of hair cutting scissors and decided he needed a hair cut! So he cut his own hair. He came out with a lock in is hands and some still in his hair. He was just so proud of himself!

I guess it was getting a little long and I thought I could try and give him a trim. He's a boy what could go wrong? Well after using the clippers my son lost his hair. Jeremy and I LOVE Diesel with longer surfer hair. Now he looks like every other little boy his age :(
I guess I got carried away and now he has a buzz cut.

We will be growing it back out!

Monster Trucks!

2009-08-01T23:25:00.000-07:00

My In-laws left this morning and we had a fun filled busy week. To end the fun we headed out to see the Monster Truck Rally this evening. One of Jer's friends from school works for a junk yard. Occasionally they get the opportunity to sponsor a rally and when they do they get about 150 free tickets. Bob was so nice and gave our family tickets! We were so excited to go. We used to go when they were in San Diego. They are so fun to watch. This was Diesel's first time. He loves anything that is loud and big and goes so I we knew he would love it.

The girls loved it too. Rylee even stayed awake. When she was about 2 we took her in San Diego and she feel asleep.
It was a very nice time with our family!

Monster Trucks are amazing they are so big yet do some crazy stuff. We love the free style when the let loose and do the crazy stunts.

This guy ended up landing on his side in that pile of black cars.

He's on 1 tire it's bound to end in some wreckage!

See I told you!

They put on a GREAT show. The pushed the limits and there were a lot of roll overs and crashes and some amazing saves. One guy even blew 2 tires and still kept going. With all the carnage no one was hurt and the The Hanel 5 had a GREAT night!

BedRock City!

2009-08-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

Friday morning it was time to head back home. We got up and had a very taste continental breakfast. They had a lot to offer. After we loaded up the car and got back on the read we stopped at Bedrock City. You know where the Flintstones are from!! It was so much fun!!!

If only I had Wilma's Body for real!

They had a cool little train ride that took us through a volcano.

My Fred!

Of course Diesel found the motorcycle. He loves them!!!

I think he looks a little too happy to be in jail! Did he drop the soap? hehehe

This was a cool slide. You climb up through the neck then slide down the tail

Not only did they have all the characters but they had all their houses too as well a the jail and a grocery store. I bought some watermelon!

Yaaba Daaba Doooooo!

Family Get-A-Way

2009-08-01T22:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning my In-laws arrived. They stayed until Saturday. We had a busy week full of fun! We did lots of grocery shopping. We enjoyed some yummy home made dinners courtesy of my MIL. She also made homemade donuts. They were GREAT! We took the girls school shopping for all their supplies and new school clothes. Diesel even got a new pair of shoes. My Wonderful in-laws also treated Jer and I to a new couch. We wont get it until Late September but we are very excited!!!!

Thursday we headed out for a quick trip to the Grand Canyon. Neither Jer nor the Kids and I had ever been. We all were very excited. We left at 5am. So as you would think we were all very tired! The girls got some shut eye on the way up.

They seem pretty comfy wouldn't you say?

Diesel decided to stay away and rock his new Car's sunglasses... He's too funny!
He did so great on the way their. It was 4 hours and he told u when he had to go potty. There were a few times we had to pull over off the free way and let him be a little man and pee in the open. But he never had an accident! We finally were able to stop at a gas station and he got out to stretch.
After some confusion with directions and the damn Garmin we made it safely to the town outside the park. We weren't able to check into our hotel so we had breakfast. It was AWFUL!!! I don't suggest anyone ever eat their. After Breakfast we made our way to the park. We found a spot to park and made our way to the Canyon. It was unbelievable. I have seen pictures but the magnitude of it in person it breathtaking. It was beautiful!

Jer of course wanted to get out there and really check it you. We made our way down to this rock cliff where some other people were. (I don't recommend Flip Flops!)

We made our way back up the kids and his parents. Jer and the girls wanted to take it all in!

After much "running" and walking around Diesel needed a break and Daddy joined him!

The girls really thought it was so cool!

They eventually all needed a break and sat down with their Grandpa.

After a few hours of taking it all in we headed down to the hotels and shops in the park itself. We discovered a CRAZY squirrel that was fearless and would come right up to you wanting food. It was crazy. He even climbed some ones leg to get food. We ate lunch and looked around in the gift shop. Before we left we got a family Shot!

As we exited the park we stopped at the State Park sign and got a big family picture. Luckily a nice couple showed up as we got there because my camera wasn't working with the whole delayed picture taking thing.

We left the park and checked into our hotel. Jer and Bob took naps. May and I took the kids to the pool. It was indoor and VERY cold so we didn't last too long. When we got back to the room we all got ready to go to dinner. We decided to eat at the Yippee-i-a Steak House. It seemed really cool but wasn't good at all. I would recommend the house salad with ranch dressing. But for a steak place... DON'T ORDER THE STEAK!!!

After dinner we drove through McDonald's and got ice cream sundaes. Once back in our room the kids and I went to bed and Jer went to the spa.

Monsoon Camp Out

2009-07-20T22:07:00.001-07:00

We had a Monsoon this evening. We also have a newly added security screen door on our front door. The kids decided to camp out and watch the monsoon through the screen door. It was so cute. Even Cane decided to join them and watch in the fun. Diesel loved the lightning. The girls loved the whole storm. They were even allowed to dance a little on the rain when it first started but then the crazy winds came and they had to get inside.

Glasses

2009-07-18T13:19:00.000-07:00

I took Taylor in her for her annual eye exam. She was wearing her glasses for reading, TV and Computer stuff before. After this eye exam she has to wear her glasses all the time. They also discovered an Astigmatism in both eyes. Her warranty was up on her old glasses and they had just broken. She was able to get a whole new pair with our insurance. Since she has to wear them all the time I decided to let her pick a pair that she truly loved. I feel that kids are cruel and she needs to feel comfortable in what she is wearing or she wont wear them like she should. After trying on a ton we narrowed it down to 2 pair. After trying the on over and over we decided. They fit her face a lot better and were more comfortable. She really is so cute with them on!

While Taylor was looking at glasses I saw Rylee eyeing some as well. I figured that since we were there and our insurance covers the visit we had Rylee's eyes tested too. I was told she was border line needing them. There was a prescription for her and it was very small. It was my call on getting her glasses as well. I figured even if it's a little correction she should have them to help save them in the long run. Rylee only needs hers for reading. She was so excited. She too is adorable in her glasses!

All I want for Christmas are my 2 front teeth!

2009-07-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

Rylee lost her 3rd tooth June 15, 2009. She actually swallowed it when she was eating a snack at a friends. She was very upset about it. I think she was a little scared too. Taylor wrote a letter to the tooth fairy for her and she still got her money.

A month later... Rylee lost her other top tooth. Now all she wants for Christmas is her 2 front teeth. She sure has an adorable toothless grin!

Swimming Camp

2009-07-12T12:34:00.000-07:00

Taylor was on the city swim team this year. It was her 1st time and she had a lot of fun. They practiced Monday-Wednesday and Fridays for an hour in the morning. They had their swim meets in Thursday evenings. Taylor did really good. She learned the Butterfly, Breast, Freestyle and Back Strokes. She really improved over the course of the season. I was so proud of her. She always got a ribbon. She was even selected to participate in the individual Championships. They only took the 3 fastest times for each age group. She was chosen for the Breast stroke. Although she didn't get a medal she swam her heart out. I was so involved in watching and cheering her on and Volunteering that I wasn't able to get any photos.

Here is a photo of all her ribbons. She seemed to get a lot of 4th place. But we are so proud of all of her ribbons. They are in order Blue is 1st then 2nd and 3rd down to the only purple being 6th.

She particiapted in the relay championships as well. Her team of 4 came in 1st and 3rd. They were amazing!

4th of July Fun

2009-07-05T11:55:00.000-07:00

So all the year we have been in San Diego we have spent 4th of July with Shonna and her family. This year was no different. It was a pot luck of sorts and we decided to bring chicken-bobs. I discovered a new Teriyaki sauce and boy were they yummy with Pineapple and peppers.

The girls headed right for the pool.

Maddi and Diesel played in the little pool. I think they were worn out cause they both laid back to relax
After awhile The girls convinced their daddy to join them in the big pool. Diesel was able to join in on the fun too. He loved it!

The girls enjoyed showing off their skills by jumping in.
Taylor was doing a back flip

Rylee was more cautious. Feet First!

Diesel my little dare devil jumped off the top too.

It was good times with good friends.

4th of July isn't 4th of July with out Fireworks. So Jer and I left and headed back to our house to camp out and watch the show. We got their just in time. We parked in a shopping center and watched the show. The kids hung out in the back of the car.

America's Sweetheart, The All American Boy, and Miss Independent!

Red White and Blue all the way!!!

My Love and I

For some reason Diesel isn't a fan of Fireworks. Here he is hiding behind Rylee. At the end he was in my lap head covered with a blanket. He would peak every now and then but for the most part was covering up.

It was a wonderful 4th of July!

The Hazards of being a little Brother of Girls

2009-06-27T11:19:00.000-07:00

Every night when I put Diesel to bed we have to lock and close his door. We lock it from the outside so that he wont get out of bed. After about an hour or two we unlock it and check on him. He has a toddler bed in his room as well as a futon. Lately he has been wanting to sleep on the Futon. Well, after peeking in on him this is what I found. He was fast asleep under the futon. I moved him up to the bed but not before I got this shot.

So I have discovered that being the baby bother in a house with 2 girls can very hazardous. If you don't believe me just check this out and you will be well aware of what is in store for my poor Diesel. Now we just gotta get Daddy to understand it's normal behavior and no inclination for what is in store for Diesel.

I think Taylor and Rylee had way too much fun during this!

Run Diesel Run!!!!

Help Me!!!!!! Save Me!!!!

Oh No they got me again!

Laughing the Night Away!

2009-05-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight Jeremy and I headed out to see Dane Cook Live preforming Isolated Incident. My Grams and Gramps said they would keep the girls for us. They picked them up at about 2:30 then headed to the movies, dinner and back to the resort to swim and watch movies. My girlfriend Alison kept Diesel for us.

Jer and I headed down to Westgate at 5:30. We had planned in eating dinner at Margaritaville but there was a 2 hour wait. So we headed over to Moe's Southwest Grill. It was really good! Then we headed over to Hell's Half Acre for a few drinks before the show.

We got into the center and found our FLOOR SEATS!!! ( I bought them for Jeremy for his 28th Birthday ) We were so excited! We LOVE DANE COOK. He is so funny.

The show was supposed to start at 7:30 but we were waiting and waiting and waiting.

The Stage

Still waiting.

Finally they had 2 opening acts. They were funny too.

Then the man came out! Like I said we were on the floor so when he entered he ran right by us. He gave Jeremy a Hi-Five and even looked him in the eye and said What's up!

Here he is running in the 1st time. I was a little early taking the picture.

He was sooo funny!

We laughed all night. Everything he said was new material and that was awesome!

Here he is leaving I took it late and got the back of his head. He again gave Jer a High Five.

He came back out for an encore.

When he ran back in I was able to get a better shot and Jer again got a hi-Five. He says he is never washing his hand! lol...

So we waited for him to start then we had to wait to leave. Being on the floor it took a while.

It was so much fun and a much needed night out.

I was able to get all dressed up and even wore a dress I haven't worn before!

Flying off

2009-05-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

This morning my grandparents meet us at my house then we headed over to the kids Swim Lessons and Taylor's Swim Team Practice. When the kids were done the showered and got dressed and we headed over to Cracker Barrel for breakfast. It was so yummy. Of course we had to shop around the country store a little big. Taylor got a new Webkinz and some candy and Rylee picked a candy toy IPod and a Candy binoculars set. Diesel of course picked some cars. My Mom also got Diesel some car decorations for his room.

After breakfast we headed over to the Mall. We didn't have too much time to kill but enough to get out and walk around. My mom was flying home and we had to have we at the airport but 1pm. We looked at the pet store in the mall. The doggies were all so cute!

We got my mom to the airport in time. We all were sad to see her go! But the kids and I are excited for our Annual Camarillo Summer visit.

Once we got back home my grandparents headed back to their resort for some rest. We all needed it. It has been a busy fun filled week. They will be back tomorrow to pick up the girls for the night so Jer and I can go see Dane Cook!

Science Museum

2009-05-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

Today we headed to the Phoenix Science Museum. My Gramps bought us a year membership so we can go back anytime for the next year. We are very excited. The Science Museum is so cool. They have so much and for all different ages. Everyone enjoyed themselves. Jer had to work and wasn't bale to join us. So I am looking forward to going back with him.

They have the Lego exhibit going on right now. The kids all liked that

Even my mom had fun... She's a dork!

My Knight

The Royal Court

Diesel didn't like the forces of nature!

My Kids Under Water

Rylee Distorted

Gramps Having fun with some neat computer stuff

My Mom and Rylee

My Kids

It was pretty hard!

My Mom on a bed of nails

The nose sneezed in them. Can you see Taylor's hair from when she jumped back!

He built this all by himself.

After the museum we went to Uncle Sam's Pizza for lunch. It was so YUMMY! When we got home we just relaxed. Gramps went back to the resort and Grams hung out with us for a bit. when we dropped Grams off my Mom treated us to Jamba Juice and the kids ate left overs for dinner.

Memorial Day in the Water

2009-05-25T23:01:00.000-07:00

Today we decided to head back over the resort from some fun in the sun. 1st we all meet at Paradise Bakery for breakfast. They are so yummy. After breakfast we went to the resort and changed into our swim suites then headed down to the pool.

Grandpa Glenn, Auntie Sami and Tay
My Little man
The Gang

Grams and Gramps
Diesel kept getting in and out he was so cold

Daddy and Taylor having a good time

My Sami and I

Grandma Sharon and Rylee

Daddy and his Girls

My Big Boy loved swimming in his own!

He was shivering

Sami and my Dad had to leave back to Cali at 12:30 in the afternoon. We were sad to see them go. We swam for a Little while longer then headed to get some lunch. After lunch my grandparent went back to their room and my Mom and us came back to my house. We all rested. Grams and Gramps came over for Taco Salad for dinner.

Late Night Swimming

2009-05-24T23:37:00.000-07:00

My Grandparents arrived today for a week visit. They traded their time share in Palm Dessert for a week at the Cibola Vista Resort about 7 miles from my house. The resort is so cool. The have a "kid" pool that has a slide, a lazy river type thing, a current pool, a wadding area of little ones. The pool isn't more then 4'6" at the deepest parts but it's mostly 3-4 feet. Since my parents were also in town for Rylee's recital we headed to the resort after dinner. the pool is open until 10pm and we all wanted to swim. Jer and Diesel stayed home but everyone else headed over.

My Daddy and his Girls

My little fish

Sami, Me and the Girls

My Sami Mo

My Mom and Grandma watching from dry land

Rylee's Piano Recital

2009-05-24T23:00:00.000-07:00

Tonight Rylee had her 1st Piano recital. She did AWESOME!!!! Her recital piece was called the Banjo Player. I'll post the video of her playing when I get it.

My mom, dad, and Sam came for the weekend. My Grandparents arrived today for a week long visit. So it was nice to have my family here to see Rylee preform.

After the recital all the kids received their first recital pin. Rylee also got some pink roses.

My Mom, Rylee and I

My Beautiful girl!

Rylee and her teacher

After the rectal we all went to dinner at Islands. I am so proud of Rylee she practiced really hard with her daddy and even though she was scared she did GREAT!

Mischief and Mayhem

2009-05-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

Looks like someone found Rylee's glitter powder!

Look Mom I'm Pretty!

Oh Lord what are we going to do!

Trying to get in the back yard to help daddy Mow the Lawn! He was all black from the screen.

Is the dog supposed to eat me? The ball? Or is this my new home?

It sure is rough being naughty! But some one has to do it!

A Call from DC

2009-05-20T11:15:00.000-07:00

So the other day the phone rang.
I picked up my hand held to read the caller ID.

I read aloud "Oh a call from Washington DC."
Rylee turns to me and said "Mommy is the President calling?"

Jeremy and I were dying of laughter. Such a smart little girl and so funny!

Career Day

2009-05-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

Today Rylee had Career Day at school. They had to dress up like what they want to be when they grow up. Rylee picked a Teacher. I think she looks very cute!

Taylor was talking to us as we were getting Rylee ready and she told us she wants to be a waitress when she grows up. My daughter has high aspirations. It's too funny!

April Student of the Month!

2009-05-14T11:09:00.000-07:00

Taylor was selected as Student of the Month for her class for the Month of April. She didn't know she was selected. They send home a letter requesting that parents attend but they kids are surprised. Diesel and I went!

When they call each kids name they put their picture on the over head and then the kids runs down the aisle and thought the flags. Then the head to the stage as they run along the parents and they get high fives along the way.
I'm a proud Mommy!

Swimming Fun

2009-05-13T10:23:00.000-07:00

Diesel stared his 1st ever Swim lessons. Boy is he funny. He is fearless and isn't too fond of listening. He is in a Preschool A Class. It works on water awareness. They play some games and work on kicks. Diesel wants me in the water with him. and the point isn't to go under water all the way.

Like I said he doesn't listen too well. So the assistant is putting him back in the water.

He loves to blow bubbles and do his big kicks and play games. When the teacher throws the round rings he uses his foot to get them. It's pretty funny and very smart. I had to ask if a kid had ever been kicked out of swim lessons and I was told no. Then I was reassured that she has had worse kids. It's not that he is BAD. He just likes to do his own thing. The 1st day Diesel went under water 6 times. It was a very entertaining 2 weeks!

Rylee's Mother's Day Tea

2009-05-10T10:11:00.000-07:00

The Friday before Mother's Day Rylee had a Mother's Day Tea at school. All mom and grandmas were invited. It worked out really nice because my In-Laws were coming that weekend and My Mother In-Law was able to join us for the Tea. The kids sang us songs and read us a book. They gave us some gifts and then we had tea and cookies.

This is Rylee and her teacher Mrs. Airo. (Mrs. Airo was Taylor's kindergarten teacher too and we just love her!)

The kids each picked one reason why they think their mom is special. Then they wrote it on a flower and put it up on this wall. I was special because I buy Rylee books. ... too funny!

Maydeen, Rylee and I

Happy Mother's Day Mommy!

Field Day

2009-05-06T11:15:00.008-07:00

Last Friday Taylor and Rylee had Field Day at school. Their last day of school is May 21st and they are starting to do all the fun end of the year activities. Field Day is like Water Day. They play outside and have fun games and activities. They went at different times due to grade. Rylee was fist thing in the morning then Tay was right after.

This was Rylee's 1st time to experience Field Day. She was so happy I was able to come watch her. First Rylee's class did a relay race. They had to sit on this wooden cart then push their way down to the other end, turn around and go back. Rylee's team came in 2nd. She did really good.

Next they went to the giant tent. They played fun games with balls and had to pop the tent to make the balls fly high in the sky. They would run around and then run under the tent. It was very cute.

The next station was the sponge toss. This one was AWESOME! They had 6 kids sit on one side of the chain link fence and all the other kids lined up on the other side. They would then take sponges that were sopping wet and throw them at the fence to get the other kids wet. It was so cute. Rylee had a blast

After that they had another relay race. They were given a bucket with holes all over it and they had to run down and dump the bucket in another bucket. The line that filled the bucket up first won.

There was an Otter Pop station too. The kids really liked this one. They all brought $.50 in and bought an otter pop.

Rylee looked so cute all wrapped up and with her hat on. She is a beautiful girl!

Taylor's class had a Tug-of-War first. They didn't win the whole thing but they did really good and had lots of fun!

Next they played Blind Volleyball. Each team sat on one side of the divider and hit a beach ball back and forth. It was so funny because the kids couldn't see when the ball was coming or where it was going. They all were so loud and had so much fun.

Tay did the relay race too... She was pretty good but her team came in 2nd to last.

The kids did the giant tent but I think 2nd grade wasn't as happy and content with this as the kindergartners were.

Both my girls were on the receiving end of the Sponge Toss. I really think this is such a great idea for a fun thing to do at home if you happen to have a fence. They kids LOVED it and it was pretty fun to watch too.

The 2nd Graders did the Bucket fill Boy -vs- Girls. They were older and bigger and able to put the bucket over head like they were supposed too and got soaked. It was such a nice day and they Loved it. I also think this would be a great idea for a game at home. The boys ended up wining but the girls gave them a run for their money.

Taylor had lots of fun and was very happy I was there to watch her. Last year I had to miss it. They had to cancel the first time because it was raining and they rescheduled it for a day I had to take Diesel to the ENT.

So both girls also did a Giant Inflatable Slip in Slide that the school rented. I was able to get video of each girl sliding. They had lots of fun. I even wanted to do this but I was wearing a dress and I was a mom so I couldn't. :(

Sping Fling

2009-05-06T11:04:00.003-07:00

Rylee had her Kindergarten Spring Fling on April 15th. They sang songs from A-Z and had little dances and skits that went with the songs. Select kids were part of the skits. Rylee was chosen from her class to be a butterfly in one of the skits. She was so cute!

(Sorry the pictures are so dark I don't have that great of a camera)

Quote For The Day

2009-05-05T10:41:00.001-07:00

This was sent to me in an email and I think it's GREAT!

Quote of the day:

Whatever you give a woman, she will make greater.

If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby.

If you give her a house, she'll give you a home.

If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal.

If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.

She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.

So, if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit.

Old Friends and New Life

2009-04-28T08:26:00.003-07:00

So my Best Friend from High School called me last week and said she was coming to visit this weekend. I was so excited. Tara just had a little boy. Brayden Christopher. I hadn't met her newest addition yet. For that fact I hadn't seen Tara and her new Husband Zach since her wedding weekend in August.

Tara's brother lives out here in Arizona so they were staying with him. He is a cop and works nights so Jer and I were going to head over late Friday night to hangout by his pool and see Tara and her family. It ended up being too cold and too late so we decided to wait until Saturday.
After my busy day with Rylee and Taylor. Tara and her son (that's weird.. her son) came over for about an hour and had dinner with us. Zach was on a ride along with Warren, Tara's brother. Brayden is just adorable. It was so great to finally meet him. I was a little sad it took so long. Tara was there with Taylor through everything with me.

Sunday after church we headed down to Warrens house to BBQ and swim. It ended up being to cold for the adults to swim. But, you know the kids. They don't care. Diesel just loved it. Poor thing was shivering and stiff as a rock but refused to get out. The girls had a lot of fun too. It was really nice to too some old friends again!

Rylee, Taylor, Diesel and Baby Brayden (12 weeks)

My Stars

2009-04-25T23:00:00.003-07:00

Well I finally decided to have Taylor try out for Club Soccer. She LOVES playing and is very serious about it. The sooner I get her into the "competitive" league the sooner she will really learn the skills.

She had her 1st try out today. She will have 3 more over the next few months. Starting on Monday she will be in a soccer skills camp. The trainers are putting it on. It will be Monday -Thursday 2 hours a day for a month. I am so excited about it. She is going to learn so much!

The Club league known as Excel is a great program. It's one of the best in our area. If she makes the team she will practice 2 nights a week for 2 hours and then have games on the weekends. She will play in tournaments and we will have to travel. She will also have time with the trainers. It's very exciting new chapter in our life. Another great thing is it is still through our church so they keep with the Christan values which is very important to me. I will keep you all posted on what may come!

Also tonight I got an email from Rylee's Piano program. She will have her 1st ever recital. It will be on May 24th in the evening. The piece she will be playing is "The Banjo Player" My Grandparents are going to be here for a week long visit so I am so excited they will be able to see it. I also talked with my mom tonight and her, my dad and Sam will be here as well. My mom may even stay a few extra days while my dad and Sam go home on Monday. (I'm keeping my fingers crossed) Rylee has been taking lessons for about 2.5 months now. She goes every Wednesday for 30 minutes. They are individual lessons and she seems to be doing good. Plus she really likes it.

Kids say the funniest things

2009-04-25T22:51:00.003-07:00

So I was on the computer this morning. Same thing I do every day. Check my mail and all my sites. The kids were watching TV. It was about 8am so the cartoons were still on Disney Chanel. Mickey Mouse Club House came one. (it's a Mickey Learning Cartoon) Out of no where Taylor comes over to me and says

"Mom back in your day when you were little there probably wasn't any TV or color. Then she asked me if Mickey Mouse was around when I was little?"

I mean Mickey has been around forever! haha... How old does she think I am! I was holding my laughter in but it was like having my own personal mini comedian.

I should have told her about the stuff that I really didn't have when I was her age like DVDs, MP3 , Internet, I remember when CD's came out.

It's too funny she's asking me the same questions that we asked our parents or grandparents.

Go! Fight! Win!

2009-04-25T11:45:00.003-07:00

So Rylee's Cheer season is officially over. Friday night we her last game. Today she had an awards party and a performance. It was very cute. She even got a trophy. She had a lot of fun and I made friends with her coaches. So that is cool, they are even on my 3-Day team. I am very excited.

Friday night I took theses videos and this picture. I hope you enjoy my little Star!

Easter

2009-04-13T19:26:00.004-07:00

Easter was very nice this year. Diesel hadn't had a nap the day before and went to bed at 7pm. He didn't get up until almost 9:30am. My poor girls had to wait for him to wake up. They did good but were very impatient.

First the kids found their Easter Baskets left by the Easter Bunny.

Taylor was very excited to get a new Webkinzs. Meet Snowflake the seal.

Diesel discovered the eggs had candy in them and that's all he really cared about.

Then the race was on to see who could find the most eggs.

Diesel had so much fun looking for them. If he saw one that same time that the girls did but the girls got it first he would get mad and say Mine. I would have to re-direct him to a new area with more un-found eggs.

Rylee had lots of fun racing against Taylor

In the end I am pretty Sure Taylor had the most but Rylee was pretty close.

Diesel was actually really good at finding them on his own. It was so cute.

Aren't their new Easter Baskets just so cute! I think that Grandma Nae-Nae helped the Easter Bunny this year

Diesel and Daddy were playing around and Diesel discovered a new hat.

After the egg hunt and the basket goodies the girls and I headed to the Easter Service at church. It was so great. For the rest of the day we lounged and relaxed. It was a Great family day. But I do miss Easter's back in Cali with my cousins.

2 Danielles

2009-04-13T16:25:00.006-07:00

So one of Jer's and My Best Friends flew in for a visit with her Daughter. Danielle and Lexi arrived on Tuesday and flew home on Friday. It was so great to see them both. It had almost been 2 years. Danielle lived with Jer and I off and on in San Diego for about 3 years. We met when Rylee was just 4 months old. We have all been thought a lot together and we think of her as a little sister. Lexi, Danielle's daughter, is just a few months younger then Diesel. So we were very excited about the visit.

I picked them up from the Airport Tuesday at 11am. We were all ready for lunch so we stopped at Cabela's on the way home. Cabela's is like a Bass Pro Shop and we thought the kids would enjoy it. We ate lunch in their cafe and then let the little ones see all the fun stuff. We looked at the fish aquariums, the huge waterfall with stuffed (dead and stuffed) animals as well as another area full of stuffed animals. Diesel and Lexi really liked it. I hadn't planned on the stop so I didn't have my camera. After Cabela's we went to get the girls from school. They both didn't recognize Danielle at first. They both did a double take then were so excited. It was so cute!

Wednesday I had some Easter shopping to do. We ran to a few stores then headed to Chick-fil-A for lunch. Wednesday's they have kids eat free and a play area. So we took advantage of that. They both had fun and even enjoyed the balloons they got on the way out. I tried to get a picture of the two of them together but they wouldn't cooperate with me.
Diesel was so proud of himself after he discovered the slide. That was all he wanted to do the rest of the time there.

After Chick-fil-A I dropped Danielle and the little ones off. The little ones took a nap and I went to get Rylee and bring her to Piano. After Piano and the naps the kids played outside. I bought them bubbles and they enjoyed that and the Power Wheels.

Rylee of course Rylee went crazy with the camera and she or Taylor took all of these pictures.

Danielle and Taylor

Bubble time. They were such a big hit.

Pow-Pow-Power Wheels!

Thursday Jeremy took off work . We had stayed up pretty late the night before so we were all really tired. For lunch we headed to Peter Piper Pizza. It's like Chuck E. Cheese. They have a really good lunch buffet. Diesel and Lexi had a lot of fun and I think Daddy did too. Again I forgot my camera but later in the day we did take this one.

Friday morning we headed to The World Wildlife Zoo. They just opened the new Aquarium. I was able to get a buy 1 get 1 free ticket from a friend and we had lots of fun. Diesel and Lexi fought pretty much the whole visit but at the zoo they were so cute and nice wtih each other!

Diesel Showing Lexi the fishies

Lexi Showing Diesel the turtles over head.

Isn't he just so cute!

Diesel showing Lexi the Penguins. So Sweet

Diesel checking out the monkeys

We were in the small mammal exhibit and it smelt so bad. Diesel didn't like it and he was letting us know. It was so funny to see him react like this.

Feeding the Duckies. They loved this

It thought he was going to fall in

Aren't the babies just to precious!

On the "Choo-Choo" train ride. This is a really cool ride. You are in with the animals. I was scared the ostrich was going to attack us.

We had to get back to life in time for us to pick the girls up from school. After the train ride we had about 30 minutes and we decided to let the little ones play on the play ground. They enjoyed getting all that extra energy out.

After the zoo we got the girls from school. Danielle packed up and we had dinner. I got her to the airport and she headed back to Cali. It was so much fun to see here and have her here. Jeremy is trying to convince her to move to Arizona. She's trying to get us to move Georgia. I say we meet in the middle!

2009 Breast Cancer 3-Day

2009-04-04T13:10:00.003-07:00

Breast Cancer 3-Day 2009 here I come. Yes, I'm doing it again - I signed up for the 2009 Breast Cancer 3-Day! I had such an incredible experience doing the 3-Day last year that I'm going back for more. I'm so excited about this event, even though this year I really know what I've gotten myself into. Words can't even describe the passion I have for this. The emotion I got crossing the finish line the support and encouragement I received along the way; not only from friends and family but complete strangers. It was an incredible, overwhelming sensation of Hope, Love, and Unity! I know I am making a difference and with your help you can make a difference too.

Without a cure, an estimated 5 million Americans will be diagnosed with breast cancer - and more than 1 million could die - over the next 25 years. That's a pretty startling statistic. No one should have to face this disease, so in order to create a future without breast cancer, I walk in the Breast Cancer 3-Day. Walking 60 miles was hard, but I will keep walking EVERY YEAR until breast cancer is no longer. I walk because everyone deserves a lifetime. I walk because I can.

This event isn't easy, but I promise you, I wouldn't be doing it if I didn't believe 100% that it was worth every muscle ache, weary night and training walk!

I need your help. I am planning on surpassing the $2,300.00 that you - my friends and family - gave so generously last time around to help fight breast cancer. I know times are hard now but this is something is changing the world. You will be saving lives and ANY amount will help me reach my goal. Imagine not eating out for 1 month and putting the money towards your donation instead. It will add and you will be paying it forward.

I know that in the blink of an eye everything can change. No one is guaranteed to live a long healthy life and too often cancer comes along and hurts someone we love. It can be any kind of cancer and I want to help put an end to it all. We all deserve a lifetime and a lifetime with the ones we love. I want to be a part of something bigger, grander and the Breast Cancer 3-Day is my way of giving back. I want to give back for the love, family and friends I have. I want to give back to help keep them all safe, secure and healthy. I am doing this for my Friends, my Grandmothers, my Mother, my Sisters, my Aunts, my Cousins, my Daughters and their Daughters, and their Daughter’s Daughters. I am doing this for ME for YOU! Help me find a Cure.

Just follow the link below to visit my personal fundraising page and make a donation. http://www.the3day.org/goto/DanielleHanel. If you would rather mail your donation you can print out a donation form and send it in.

If you have any questions or want to hear more about what I'm doing, I love talking about the event. Thanks for all of your support. I'm incredibly lucky to have people like you in my life!

Love,
Danielle

Our 2008 Breast Cancer Team

"This One's for the Girls"

Random Fun

2009-04-04T12:27:00.003-07:00

So just a little update on everyone.

Jeremy took a weld test at work and he passed. He is now a CERTIFIED Welder. The certification he has is one of the highest certs you can get. He was so happy and I am so proud of him. Now he will be getting a raise and that's always a nice thing. The other nice thing about this is that if he were to get laid off he has better chances of getting another job somewhere else.

I am not sure if you have all heard about the movie Twilight. It was a huge phenomenon. There was a midnight release to our local Walmart even had a party for the fans. Jer was busy playing his video games and I was wide awake so I decided to go check it out. The movie is based a a book series called The Twilight Saga. I bought the movie and decided to buy the 1st book as well. The girls and I watched the movie the next evening and I still didn't get the craze. I decided I would skip reading the book. But then a I was "yelled" at that I had to read the books and how great they were etc... so I gave in. Boy am I glad I did. I read the 1st book "Twilight" in 3 1/2 days. It was awesome. Of course I had to keep going so I bought the 2nd book and read that one in 3 days. Then I bought the 3rd and 4th one and read them both in 2 days. I read all 4 books in 9 days total. It was a total of over 2,400 pages. I was addicted and I still am. I re-watched the movie yesterday with Rylee and I liked it so much more. I am going to start the 1st book again. I never do that. I can't read a book more then once but I am in live the series.

Taylor had been doing a soccer camp. Her regular soccer season is over but the league offered a camp for her age group to give them more training. I am going to be signing her up for another one that they are having at the end of this month. It will last for about a month. It will teacher her better skills and better ball control. She has a lot of skill but with instruction can only get better. She just loves soccer and any extra help I can get her so she can improve I am all for. I love being a SOCCER MOM! School is going good. She has been improving in reading and has been getting great scores on her report cards.

Rylee is doing great. She is in Piano lessons. I put her in a program that offered a free scholarship for 2 months. She seems to really like it so Jeremy and I have deiced to keep her in the lessons. They are pricey but the results at the end are amazing. She will be getting her 1st recital piece this week. She attends private lessons every Wednesday right after school for 30 minutes. My Mother in Law bought her a key board so that she can practice at home. I know how great piano is for the brain so as long as we can afford the lessons she will stay in. I was blown away at the CD of recital pieces they played for us. They only accept Kindergartners and the whole program goes to the end of 9th grade. The played a piece of a 1st grader playing Mozart. It was so good. Another mom I know has her son in the lessons as well. She took lessons for 2 years and she said that after 2 years she didn't play as well as the 1st grader we heard. The website is https://www.hovlandconservatory.org/ If you look at the middle of the page it has a player called Role Model Music you can listen to the kids play. They motto is that all kids stay at the same level. So Rylee should be able to play like too. It's beautiful! Rylee is also in Cheer. She isn't too fond of cheer and wants to try soccer. We are going to put her in soccer next year and skip cheer. But she is doing good and it's so cute! School is going great for her as well.

Diesel is a nut ball. He is doing good. He is talking so much more now and you can actually understand what he is saying. He repeats you alot. We have had a few slips of foul language from his mouth. It's s hard not to laugh because he has no idea what he is saying. But we are working on our potty mouths the best we can. He has been doing really good in his big boy bed. And potty training is coming along. The only accidents he has are poopy ones. And they are no fun. But he is till running around naked and that seems to be going just fine. He is still obsessed with CARS. It's too funny. Here are some funny pictures I have taken of Diesel over the last few weeks.

I bought him a hat for our Disneyland trip. I was on the couch and he had disappeared. Next thing I knew he came out of his room and he had his hat on. I had to get a picture! It was so cute! He had his Cars hat on with His Car PJ's sitting in his Cars chair. lol.. It was so funny.

So lately he hasn't been big on naps but has been so tired in the evening. Jeremy got home from work and was so tired that he fell asleep on the couch and then Diesel was watching TV and fell asleep too. I had to take a picture they look so cute!

6th Birthday Fun

2009-04-04T11:27:00.006-07:00

Rylee's 6th Birthday fell during the girls Spring Break. Diesel and I woke up and went to sing a Good Morning "Happy Birthday" to Rylee. The night before Rye slept with Taylor.

Diesel decided he wanted to crawl into bed with the girls and smother them with hugs and kisses.

For a Breakfast treat I bought lots of mini doughnuts. The kids loved them! It's a rare treat!

It's tradition that the birthday star gets to pick what they want for dinner. Since it was spring break Rylee got to pick lunch too. She decided to go to Sonics for popcorn chicken. We ran to Walmart to order her cake and so she could pick out her pinata. She was so excited for her presents. She wasn't allowed to open them until Jeremy was home from work so about every hour all day long she kept asking is daddy was on his way home yet. She was very excited. Taylor had a soccer camp that night and we didn't get done will 6pm. Jer was home now so we stopped by the house to pick him up and we were off to McDonald's. That's what My Rylee girl wanted for dinner. We at there and the kids played in the indoor play house. They had a lot of fun!

Then we were finally home. And so was DADDY! Rylee ran right to the gifts. She was very excited.

She got a DS from us and Jer parents. She got some money and a movie. She has gone shopping and bought some goodies with her B-Day and put some of it on her bank account. She really like reading her cards too.

That Saturday we her 6th Birthday Party. I rented a ramada at the park and we had it there. The weather so nice and she had lots of fun.

We had a pinata. It was broken before the big kids had a chance to break it. But they still loved all the goodies inside.

It was such an nice day in Arizona so I decided to have a water balloon toss. They kids had a lot of fun with this. They kept switching partners and were able to get a little wet.

Next she had her yummy cupcake cake. As you can see it was a 6 for her 6th birthday. We tried to light the candles but the wind wasn't cooperating with is so in the end she only blew out 2 candles.

Then Rylee opened her gifts. She got lots of fun stuff.

In the end I think she had a great 6th Birthday.

Spring Chicks

2009-03-20T22:19:00.008-07:00

I have a friend that is a photographer and she wanted to take pictures of the kids for her portfolio. How could I pass up free pictures of my kids. Plus it hadn't been done for a while so I said yes. We decided to do it by the waterfall in front of my neighborhood, the same place we had our 2007 Christmas Pictures taken. They turned out so cute. There were over 300 taken. I can't put them all on here so here are a few good ones. Or you can check out my Facebook for lots more. No you don't have to be a member to see them. Here's the link http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=63969&id=778064322&l=a01a760ac9

Now for the fun stuff ... My Spring Chicks!

California Adventures

2009-03-18T20:10:00.012-07:00

Day 2 started with me rising and shining first. Diesel and his daddy looked so cute sleeping I had to get a shot.

We all were so worn out from the VERY long day before that it took us a little bit to get up and moving.

Once we were all ready we headed to wait for the shuttle. We waited and waited and waited. It took us about 45 minutes. A lot longer then it should have!

Jeremy's cousin Kacie and her son Owen met us for the day Sunday. The first thing we did was see the Mickey Mouse Play House Show!

It was such a big hit! Everyone loved it and participated.

Even Jeremy was entranced!

Owen just loved Taylor and wanted to be near Diesel.

They had a ton of cool things. Bubbles fell from the sky and so did leaves. Diesel loved it all!

Afterwards the kids were pumped! Here are my kids and their cousin Owen.

Next we went to see A Bug's Life 3-D Show. The little ones weren't too sure about it all but us adults LOVED it and laughed all the way through.

After Bugs life were all so hungry. We found a good food place and waited in line and waited and waited and waited. After an hour waiting to just order we waited another 10 minutes to get our damn food. During the waiting the Men (Jer and my Dad) were making new friends and watching the kids. Lunch in all too FOREVER! Once it was all done we headed over to the Bug Life Kid Zone so the kids could go on come rides.

The 1st ride was a caterpillar train ride. The line was about 30-40 minutes and the ride stunk. So not worth the wait. But the kids stayed entertained playing on the ropes and we adults took lots of pictures.

Our cousin Kacie and I

My BFF Shonna and I. Oh I forgot to mention you can drink at California Adventures Park. So the Yellow cups = Beer or Margaritas. That also helped the time go by! :)

These are our new friends. They were so nice and lots of fun!

Rylee being a ham as usual

My Taylor is such a great big sister and such a huge help. She loved watching over Owen and he adored her! Isn't he just so cute!

Rylee just loved her Aunite Sami. And Sami loved all the Lovin!

Finally on the ride!

Next we went on the Spinning Lady Bugs. The kids started getting restless. Diesel looks so cute here and fell asleep just minutes later in my arms. He didn't end up riding the ride.

Maddi hated the ride. Can't you tell by her face. It was so sad yet so funny Shonna and I couldn't help but laugh. She kept saying "No More Mommy" " I want to stop" You should see the video of her on the Matterhorn! OMG too funny!

Kacie and Owen left after the LadyBugs. But we were able to get a group shot. Diesel was asleep still.

After that we headed over to Soar'n California. My Dad and the girls had never been on it. They all loved it. Did you know it takes you through Camarillo? So cool!

By the time that was over Diesel was awake and it was time to head to Downtown Disney for out Dinner reservations at Rain Forest Cafe.

We told them we were celebrating Rylee's Birthday and they came out and sang to her and gave her ice cream when our dinner was done. She was very excited.

Diesel on the other hand was very scared of the thunder storms in the restaurant. But her liked the elephant and gorilla.

After dinner my parent left back to the hotel to get their stuff and leave back to Camarillo. We took the kids into the Store so they could get some goodies. Then worked our way back to the tram.

We stopped on the way in front of the park entrance to take pictures with the letters.

Then it was back to the hotel! One final ride on our tram

Diesel's such a monkey!

When we got back to the hotel I was so thirsty and I was out of water. Shonna and I made a walk to the liquor store then to Carl's Jr for a late night snack. I'm not sure it was the best idea. I'm pretty sure we were in the ghetto. But we had an adventure that's for sure!

We were woken up a few times EARLY Monday morning to alarms. At 6:30am I checked on Diesel and this is how I found him. It's so cute. He was so worn out. He was sleeping with Jer and I was with Shonna. I moved him back the right way but not before I took a picture.

We got up about 10am. By 10:40 we were all packed up and on the rode back to good ol' Arizona. We got home around 6pm Monday evening and had such a great time. The weather in Cali was perfect for the park and we arrived back to 80 degree temps. Already talking to my mom about heading back over the summer!

It was an awesome trip with great memories, the best kind of people and fun pictures!

Disneyland

2009-03-18T11:48:00.016-07:00

So we decided to take a family trip to The "Happiest Place on Earth" Disneyland!!! My Best Friend Shonna and her 2 year old daughter Maddi joined us. We were also able to get my Mom, Dad and sister Sami to join us. We booked and awesome hotel. The hotel had 2 queen beds, bunk beds, and a pull out couch. Plus 2 FULL bathrooms. My family and Shonna drove down Friday March 13. We arrived at about 9pm.

Diesel was all set in his Cars gear! He looked so cute I had to get a picture before he went to bed.

Saturday morning my mom, dad, and Sami drove down. They got there at about 8:30am. We got on our shuttle and headed to the park. My Mom being a SO CAL resident got us all 2fer tickets. We were able to get into 1 park 1 day and the other park a 2nd day for the price of 1 ticket.

Our 1st ride was Space Mountain. Jer and I hadn't been on it since it was re-done. We even had Taylor go on it.

Next we hit the Submarine ride. They re-did it with finding Nemo. The line was an hour and the kids got restless. We tried our best to keep them busy. Luckily they did pretty good

It was well worth the wait. We all loved it.

After that we were all hungry and headed over to get some food. Diesel fall asleep.

Once we ate lunch we headed over to Pirates of the Caribbean. Everyone was able to go on this. The wait wasn't too bad only about 20 mins.
The girls were so happy to see their Auntie Sami. They always wanted to ride with her.

I sat with my mom and Dad

Diesel of course rode with his daddy! He was a little scared at times but did great!

Next Everyone else went on Indiana Jones. My mom, Shonna, and I took Maddi and Diesel on the Tarzan Tree House

Diesel started to get restless after we went on Thunder Mountain so we got him some Cheetos. He just looked so cute!

The new thing is to get the kids to say "CHEESE" when they take pictures. They are adorable!

Next we went on Matterhorn. I rode with Diesel.

Taylor rode With Sam, Diesel even went with Daddy.

After Matterhorn we decided to head to Toon Town and let the little ones play.

My Mom with her kids and Grandbabies!

Some Fun in Minnie's House

Heading to Mickey's House

So we got to Mickey's house and there was a line all the way through the house. We weren't sure why it was taking so long. About 30 minutes into the house we realized that We were going to meet Mickey Mouse. We had no choice but to wait. There wasn't an exit and we didn't want to work out way back out with a group of 10.

Shonna and I bought matching T-shirts to wear to Disneyland. We looked so cute!

After Toon Town we went on It's a Small World. They re-did this one too. They added Disney characters to the different places. It was really cool. All the kids really liked this one.

Then we had to go on Autotopia. We got our Fast Passes and then had dinner. Rylee rode with me and she drove the car. It was so funny. We were laughing the whole time. Let's just say that she isn't a very good driver!

Diesel rode with Jer and Tay with Sami

We had planned on heading to Fairytale Land with all the kids rides like Dumbo and Peter Pan. We didn't realize that the fireworks show was going on and they had closed that part down. We watched the fireworks instead. Diesel didn't like them at all!

After the fireworks we headed back to the Castle to do those rides but it was going to be closed until at least 10:30. We decided to skip it and take some pictures instead.

When everyone else went on Indiana Jones Shonna my Mom and I stayed with the kids. Then they had to close the ride because some lady lost her purse. The line was so long when they all got off so we decided to wait. My mom didn't want to go so Sami took her ticket and we went on it. My mom and dad took all the kids on the Jungle Cruise while they waited. I guess it was really cool late at night.

That was the last ride we went on for Disneyland. We all headed back to the hotel, got the kids to bed and hit the hay. My mom, dad and Sam stayed in our hotel that night. It was fun!

Bye Bye Dino's, Hello Cars

2009-03-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

As you may know Diesel was climbing out of his bed. After much thought and looking around I decided to move him up in the world of life and take him out of the crib and put him in a toddler bed. For those who don't know, a Toddler bed is the same size mattress as a crib but it's a bed that's only about 1 foot off the floor and has side rails so the "toddler" doesn't fall out of bed.
So Diesel is in Love with CARS!!! The Disney Movie Cars and Hot Wheels and all other cars. We decided to re-do his room and got him a Cars bed. Since all his baby bedding was Dinosaurs we had to get new things. I enjoyed shopping and redecorating. Unfortunately I don't have any before pictures but here is the new improved "Big Boy" room!

The Blue shelves are new. It was on sale at Target and alot better then the old basket I used to throw all his toys in. See is new bed. It has Lightning McQueen on the head board and Matter on the foot board. I decided not to waste money on bedding so we use the blanket my mom got Diesel for Christmas.
I had to get new curtains seeing how the old ones came with the bedding. I found these on clearance at Walmart. The sign above Diesel's bed is a Cars dry erase board. It was only a $1 at Target and I wrote Diesel's Raceway on it. I bought the Cars themed Cars wall decals and the Cars Border too.

This corner has his bookshelf and some other toys. Yes I know the boarder doesn't go all around. But the last one stopped here too. I may one day buy 1 more roll to finish this small wall.

We bought a futon in November and put it in Diesel's room. It will be his bed when he's out of the toddler bed. and for now it's perfect in his room.

I made this sign. I bought all the supplies at Micheal's. I think it turned out really cute!

Diesel is doing GREAT in his "Big Boy" Bed. He will only get out of bed maybe once and sometimes he doesn't at all. He loves to be tucked in and it's so cute!

Mayhem

2009-03-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

Well I have come to realize that I am going to have my fair share of mayhem. Diesel is only 2 and we have already been in the ER with him twice and there have been some other incidents that we didn't go to the ER. Taylor has broken her ankle twice and Rylee well she is more calm and cautious so nothing with her. But they sure do like to get into things. Weather it's Diesel pouring a WHOLE brand new bottle of soap on my floor or getting into my makeup. Or Rylee sneaking and painting her fingers in her room then spilling the nail polish all over the floor.

Diesel thinks it's just so funny. He has ruined numerous eye shadows and here he has my mascara on. Crazy Kid!

Now back to the injuries. Taylor LOVES to run in the house. That's how she broke her ankle the 1st time and recently re-injured it. Well the other night she ran into the edge of the door. I had to take a picture I have never seen a knot so big! She was a trooper. It hurt but she was my tough girl!

I know with 3 kids I am in for much more mayhem!

Field Trip

2009-02-23T17:00:00.001-07:00

Taylor's class had a field trip to the World Wild Life Zoo. Being a stay at home mom I was able to chaperon. It was a lot of fun. We have been there before with my parents and I have been there twice with Rylee for Field Trips.

They just opened another part and added an aquarium. They even put in a Flume ride. Here is Tay and some of the kids riding the ride

There are a few spots where the kids can touch some sea life.

They have so many animals and you can get really close. Here is her group with a White Rhino. It was a lot of fun.

Daddy Daughter Dance

2009-02-08T13:07:00.020-07:00

Every year at the girls school they have a Daddy Daughter Dinner Dance. Last year Jeremy was still in school and was unable to take the Taylor. Grandpas and Uncles can bring their kids if Daddys can't. So Taylor called her Uncle Aaron and he flew out and brought her. Rylee was unable to go because she didn't attend the school. This year when we got the tickets the girls were so excited! They got all dolled up and enjoyed it.
Before the girls went to get their hair done I had them jump in the shower with bags on their head so they wouldn't get their hair wet. It was very cute! They had been at school all day and I wanted them so be nice and clean.

I took the girls over to my friend Alison's house. She is a hair dresser and did the girls hair. Taylor enjoyed getting all done up.

She did some curls on top then put her hair in curlers and had the bottom half down.

Rylee didn't her hair up. So Alison used a wavy iron
It's like a crimper (you know from the 80's) but it's more of a curl.When she was done she put a black and white head band in her hair

Both girls got corsages from their daddy.

Taylor's was red roses
Rylee got White roses.

I bought the girls new shoes and they had some cute dresses. We painted their nails and put their jewelry on.

I think they all looked great. Even my sexy hubby!

At the dance they were served spaghetti, salad and rolls. Of course they wanted to dance and were starving when they get home.

They each got glow necklaces.
Taylor and her friend

Jeremy danced a few times with Tayl0r and a little with Rylee. He said Rylee wanted to dance more with her friends then with him.
For the most part I think the daddys stand around watching their daughters dance.

There was a conga line and both girls were in the front.

At the end of the night there is a drawing for gifts. Taylor won! She got a folder and a note book. They got home just after 8:30pm Friday night and were so happy and had so much fun. Even Daddy did!

Potty Time

2009-02-06T20:03:00.004-07:00

I bought a potty chair a few months ago for Diesel. He went on it a few times but wasn't ready to really start potty training.

On Super Bowl Sunday I was changing Diesel's diaper and he had a little rash. I mentioned to Jeremy that I was thinking about changing the diaper brand. Jeremy said why don't we just get rid of them all together. I thought about it and decided it had been a few months and we should really try it again. So just like I did with the girls I let Diesel run around without any pants.

Monday I had a doctors appointment so he was only "free" in the am. But did pretty good. He peed a little on his way to the potty but was bale to stop himself and finish on the potty.

Every day has just gotten better and better. Thursday and Friday he didn't have any accidents. Friday he even had diarrhea. Now he just runs to the bathroom on his own and half the time I don't even know he has gone. Sometimes he yells "POTTY, POTTY" as he runs down the hall. then I just run after him. It's so cute. Friday he had disappeared and this is what I found. I guess he is just like all the men!

Busy reading his Policeman Book

Being a ham as usual

When he is all done he dumps his potty in the big potty and I rinse it out.

He has come down with something and had a few accidents yesterday but still did really good. He even took a nap yesterday with out a diaper and was dry.

Soccer Fun

2009-01-24T09:45:00.005-07:00

So for the past 2 years now Taylor has played soccer. She plays at our church on a Recreation Team called the Cheetah Bears. The church also has Club Teams. Every year around this time the Club League hosts a HUGE tournament. Because Taylor plays in the REC they usually don't play in the tournament. The level of play and the structure is more advanced. This year Taylor's coach decided to enter her team in the tournament. For the regular season the are 8 in 1. He had a lot of faith in the girls. We are the only REC team in the division we are playing. The the teams are Club.

Game 1
So the first game was bright and early at 8am. We had to be at the fields by 7:15am. It rained all night and was sprinkling on the way to the fields. The coaches were great and had coffee and donuts for the parents and girls. Once the team was all checked in and verified they headed over to warm up. The game started a little early and it was on. The Cheetah Bears were fierce. They dominated the whole game. Taylor scored 2 goals and made some big plays. I have never seen the girls play so great. It rained, I mean Poured off and on for the 1st half of the game. The girls have never played in the rain before. The girls kept the ball on the other side of the field about 99% of the time. They had about 8 goal shots that they just missed and about 5 that the other goalie blocked. The 2nd half the girls were still dominating the game but the other team was able to get the ball into our side a few more times. In the end it was shut out and Taylor's team won 5-0. It was amazing. I am ready for a nap and I need to have a throat lozenge so I can yell for the 2nd game. I am so proud of them. Taylor was amazing and the coaches were just too funny to watch on the sidelines. Looking forward to another GREAT game at 2:15pm today!

Coach Kevin is telling the girls how great they are doing.

Check out our awesome Banner I had made for the team.

Game 2
After a 5 hour break it was back to Soccer. The girls were so tired from being up so early for the 1st game they weren't in the swing of things until the 2nd half. All together is was a big adjustment for the girls. They are used to playing 4 quarters and being able to sub out when ever as well as having 5 subs. This tournament was 2 - 25 minute halves and they only had 3 subs. The girls lost there 2nd game 5-1. Considering the caliber of the other girls Taylor's team made them work for their goals. They held them off a lot and really tried hard. It didn't rain anymore and in the end the girls had fun!

Here are the coaches giving the girls a Pep Talk during Halftime.

After the game the coaches bought the all the girls an Icee. Here is Coach Todd and a few of the girls watching the Older girls play while they eat their Icee.

Game 3
It was up and at um early again today. They had to be at the fields by 8:30am for a 9:15 game. The girls were all fired up. They all played their hearts out today. It was the most intense game yet. There were a few girls on the team that played better today then I had seen them play all season. It was amazing. We didn't win today. The score was 7-0 but even though the score was high the girls ran their butts off. They hustled, blocked, kicked and ran faster and harder then I have ever seen. They did amazing. Again our girls only practice an hour a week and have only been together since Mid September. Theses CLUB team practice at least 2 times a week and have been together since early August. They pay a few thousand dollars compared to out $160 for our RECREATION league. Our girls defiantly made the other teams earn their goals. We were all so proud of how great the girls did.

After the last game they all got trophys and a pin. We came in 3rd place out of the 4 teams and we were the only Recreation team in our division. I think that's pretty darn good.

We are already talking about moving on next year with some of the same girls and our coaches!

Rodeo Day

2009-01-22T14:30:00.001-07:00

So today Rylee had Rodeo Day at school. I volunteered to help out.

All the kids came dressed up in the CowGirl Gear. Rylee is wearing a vest that My Grandma and Grandpa Duran got me when I was little. It worked great!

The had wagon rides and searched for gold.

They had story time about an Armadillo, made tall hats and played Cowboy war (the card game).

For lunch they ate beans out of a can and had chips and hot dogs. It was very cute and Rylee had lots of fun!

7 Years

2009-01-20T13:41:00.002-07:00

7 years of love, happiness, friendship, laughter, fights, struggles, sadness, disagreements, safety, security, admiration, conquests, family and MARRIAGE!

7 years ago on January 19, 2002 I took a vow to love, honor and cherish a man I knew I would spend the rest of my life.

7 years ago 2 words changed our lives forever

7 years have come and gone so quick. 7 Years is a long time and yet it's just the beginning of Jeremy's and my journey.

7 years we have been married and it's been amazing, hard but wonderful. We made it this far when so many said we wouldn't. And over those 7 years it's only gotten better. Everyday I love him more. Everyday I thank God I am his wife. Everyday I cherish our family.

For our 7 year wedding anniversary we went out on a date night. A friend watched the kids. She refered us to an AMAZING sushi place. We went to sushi and were in heaven. Then we had planned on watching a movie but none of the movies we wanted to see were playing at a decent hour. Instead we ran to blockbuster and rented a movie. We picked up the kids, came home put them to bed and watched out movie while we cuddled on the couch.

It was very nice to get all dressed up to go out.

Everyday Life

2009-01-20T12:30:00.004-07:00

So I usually have something special to share or an event. But not this time. I just want to share some of the everyday things that happen in our day to day life.

Last week Aaron Jeremy's brother came for a over night stay. He had to move some stuff back to California from his old apartment. We didn't get to see him for more then a few hours but I was able to snap this picture of Diesel laying on his uncle. It's so sweet how much they love each other.

Last week Friday the girls had a spirit day. It was Super Hero Day. They were able to dress up as a super hero and they picked the ones they wanted to be. Taylor chose Super Girl and Rylee chose Bat Girl. We ran to the store and bought some red and black fabric and a blue shirt for Tay and a black shirt for Rye. When we got home I cut measured the fabric and cut it to make capes for the girls. I just tied them in knot around their necks. I had some transfer paper left over so I printed the Superman logo out and put it on Tay's shirt. I then used puff paints to draw the logo on Taylor's cape. I used puffy paints to draw the batman logo on Rylee's shirt and cape as well. Taylor wore her cape and shirt with a red skirt and Rylee wore hers with black tights, boot and short. Here is the finished product. I think they looked so cute!!

Diesel has been doing lots of new things too. He has really come along way in talking. He says so much now and really trys to repeat what you say. A few of my favorites are when he looks at me wanting something and says "pease" aka Please. It melts your heart. Another thing he does it say "I sawry" aka I'm sorry. He will in passing bump into you or step on your foot and you hear as he goes on his way "I sawry" It's too cute.

Something new he started last week Thursday was to climb out of his crib. Now it's a daily thing. At nap and bed time I have to put him back in bed about 5 times. Finally the last time I have to raise my voice and be very firm and tell him not to get out of bed and to go to sleep. I have to check on him every few minutes. Sometimes he is out playing with is cars other times he opens his door and comes running out. Sunday night he had gotten out of bed and I was putting the dinner dishes away. Jer had just walked into the kitchen and he saw Diesel. Diesel saw that Jeremy saw him and he went running back to his room. Friday night when I went to check on him before I go to bed just like I do every night and I couldn't open the door. Diesel had gotten out of bed and had fallen asleep on the floor at his door. In the morning he used to lay in bed and kick the wall so you knew he was awake. Now he comes into the room. This morning I was watching TV, I could hear Diesel opening his door and I waited for him to come find me. Instead I heard him talking. I went looking for him. I found him bent over on his head looking under Taylor's bed saying "itty itty" (Diesel talk for Kitty Kitty) Our cat Saber had gone under the bed and Diesel was trying to get him out. It was too funny. One of the moments I wish I had a video camera. Although I don't have a video camera handy I do have my camera and I was able to find Diesel asleep in his chair. I knew he was very tired but I wanted to feed him lunch before he took his nap. While I was cooking lunch I looked over and my efforts a waste. He decided he wanted to sleep.

Slumber Party Fun

2009-01-13T16:15:00.005-07:00

So we had Taylor's 8th Birthday Party. It was a slumber party and boy was it full of fun! I tired to keep them busy so chaos wouldn't erupt with 11 little girls. The girls starred arriving Saturday evening at 5pm. Jeremy ended up working later then he had hoped so I had to take care of Diesel too. But, I did have my saving grace. Shonna my friend came over and helped as well. It was nice she and I had our own sleep over! It was hectic but fun. I remember for my 8th birthday I had a sleep over too. I am still friends with 2 of the girls that were there. I tired to do some of the things we did at my party.

Once the girls were all here I took a picture with each girl and Taylor then we took a group shot. The pictures were for later in the evening.

The 1st thing we did was play the mummy game. I divided the girls into groups. I gave them 2 rolls of toilet paper and they had to warp someone up as a mummy. Here is Rylee's group. Can you guess she's the mummy!

Here is Taylor's group. 1st Taylor was the mummy then half way though they switched and had her best friend Sydney be the mummy. They had lots of fun!

Shortly after the mummy game it was dinner time. Pizza was Taylor's choice. They all enjoyed it. But I will say 8 larges for 11 girls 3 adults and 2 2year olds is way too much!!! I am never good at estimating when it comes to pizza. we still have 1 whole large left and have been eating it everyday.

After dinner we split the girls up again and had 2 activities going. One was

pillow case painting. It was a spin off of something I remember doing with my mom. Instead of painting t-shirts like I used to do we made pillow cases. This is where the pictures came into play. I uploaded the pictures and printed them onto transfer paper then ironed them onto the pillowcases. The girls got to decorate around the picture of themselves and Taylor. Taylor had the one with the whole group. I let Rylee's Best buddy come over so Rylee wouldn't be left out and so Rylee's and her buddies was of them two.

The other activity they traded off doing was finger nail painting. It was a spin the bottle game. The girls would take turns spinning the nail polish bottle and who ever it landed on they had to paint 1 nail that color. Then we traded off colors. Some of the girls just wanted all one color so Shonna helped with that.

Once the pillow cases were all done it was Ice Cream time. The Ice Cream was so hard it took a few minutes to thaw. So the girls played freeze dance. Our cable carrier has a Kids Only song channel with pop songs that kids like. We had that one and they took turns yelling freeze.

Here are some of the finished pillow cases. I think they turned out great!

Once the Ice Cream thawed it was time for our Ice Cream Sunday bar. We had Vanilla ice cream and the girls got to put what ever they wanted on their ice cream.

I had tired putting 8 candles on Taylor's creation but there wasn't enough room so she just got and 8. I think it was a GREAT idea!

We are just about to sing Happy Birthday to her. Here is Taylor with her Best Buddy Sydney.

Once the Ice Cream was all done they all made their beds in the living room. Taylor had picked out 2 movies for them to watch. Horton Hears a Who and Narnia Prince Caspian. Diesel was so cute he kept walking around laying in the beds with the girls. Maddie Shonna's daughter made her one little bed and wanted to be like the big girls.

After watching 2 movies I finally said lights out and turned everything off. It was 12:30am and I didn't hear anything after that. It think by this time they were all pretty tired. Only 5 of them were still up at 12:30. 1 little girl went home at 9 (she wasn't allowed to sleep over) and 1 little girl wanted to call home at 10:30 so she could go home.

I think the girls were up at 7am but didn't get me until 8am. I made them breakfast while they played some of Taylor's new games she got for her birthday. I made an egg dish at Tay's request. It looks scary but tasted yummy. Most them picked out for awhile while Taylor told them to just eat it and that it was good. The one's who finally did eat it said it was really good. Others left hungry I am sure! lol... The all got picked up at 10am and I had everything cleaned up and taken down shortly there after. I took a nice long nap Sunday afternoon.

In all it turned out good and I know Taylor had lots of fun!

Shonna again THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU ! You are the BEST! I LOVE YOU!!

Family Fun

2009-01-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

So the 1st official week in January was a busy one for The Hanel Clan!

It started Monday with the girls going back to school. After 2 weeks of sleeping in and laziness life was back to normal. We all managed to get up on time and out of the house so they weren't late to school. They had a good first day back. They were very excited to wear some new Christmas clothes and share their holiday fun with their classes.

Tuesday I was getting ready for my In-Laws to come. Plus Diesel had a well check up. Everything is going great with him. He weighs 24.2lbs and is in the 9% and he is 33.25 inches tall and is in the 21%. He is the "fattest" he has ever been. He is very small but is growing proportionate so there aren't any worries. Oh and his head is tiny in the 12%. The doctor says he will look better then having a big head. lol... Tuesday night soccer started back up for Taylor. They had a winter break and had been off for about 1.5 months. Practice went well and although it was cold out she seemed to be back in the routine. Late Tuesday just before 9pm Maydeen and Bob arrived. Jeremy got home from work about 10 minutes later. (he likes to work late for extra $$)

Wednesday morning after the girls were off to school May and I took Diesel to a follow up ENT appointment for his tubes. his hearing was perfect and everything looked great. We did find out that his adenoids are blocking his nasal passage by 75%. Although it is a fairly large blockage he should grow bigger and his adenoids should shrink. We aren't going to remove them at this time. The Doctor said he wouldn't do it on his girls in this case. Diesel goes back in 6 months. After the doctor May and I went shopping. We ran some errands. We got back around 2 to pick the girls up from school. We laid Diesel down for a nap and ran to Walmart to buy all the party stuff for Taylor's 8th birthday sleep over. When we got home both girls had a surprise waiting for them. Bob had spent all day putting together a desk for Rylee and desk chairs for both of them. He also did some Honey Do's for me. They girls were so excited and very surprised! Jeremy managed to get off work at a decent time and we all went out to dinner. We tried a new place over by the Cardinals stadium. It's was very nice Mexican restaurant. The food was pretty good and the atmosphere was very nice. Diesel did pretty good for not being out to eat in a very long time.

Thursday May and Bob drove out to the shooting range where Bob shoots in his Cowboy action shoots. Diesel and I lounged around until they got home. We had decided to drive out and have lunch with Jeremy. I thought it would be nice if they could see where he works and what he does. When we got to the shop Jeremy showed us a project they had finished for the Navy. It was amazing. Jeremy constructed this HUGE thing and he had no blue prints. All he had were CAD pictures with only a width and height dimension. There were a ton of pictures and he had to reconstruct it. It was amazing and he was so proud of himself. His work was so good. Bob even made a comment that he had no idea how good Jeremy was at welding. I know Jeremy really enjoyed that! When we got home I had a follow up ultrasound for my thyroid. I am pretty sure that everything is fine and that there is nothing wrong. But I go back to the ENT in mid February. Thursday night Maydeen made us a yummy chicken dinner. Jer, Bob and I watched a movie and May got the kids bathed and to bed. It was a nice break.

I am never good at taking pictures when May and Bob come. It always seems we are so busy and non-stop. I was able to get one of Diesel and his Grandpa. You can't read it but the shirt Diesel is wearing says "I may be little but my Grandpa sure thinks I'm a Big Deal" Bob had gotten Diesel the shirt a few months back and I thought it was a perfect time for him to wear it.

Friday morning May and Bob left back to home.

Saturday morning Taylor had her 1st soccer game of this half of the season. It was an 8am game and it was COLD! I think the girls weren't all quite ready to be back. School had just started it was early and cold and soccer had just stared. The lost their 1st game ever 2-3. we had beat this team in the 1st half 5-3. They girls did play good but you could tell they weren't all there.

Another Hanel Birthday

2009-01-03T20:01:00.003-07:00

Yes It's January 3rd. 8 Years after I gave birth to a beautiful, super good baby girl. The difference now is that she isn't a baby any more. I have a Tween! Only 8 more years and she will be driving. I know it's a ways away but the last 8 years have come and gone quicker then I would ever want. She is growing up to be a beautiful, smart, good hearted little lady.

It was Taylor's day and she picked Subway for Lunch. Her wish was my command! Can you believe this girl can eat she almost ate a whole foot long. I would say she polished off a good 3/4 of a foot long. I have no idea where it goes. I wish I had that metabolism.

I must say that most of the Day Taylor was busy playing her new DS. She bought some more games with her birthday and Christmas money. I think this is a Great picture!

My Baby isn't a baby anymore. Not only is she getting older in age she is maturing and I have an 8 year old that is going on 16. Oh boy do I have my hands full! But I love her so very much and even though I was young when we had her I wouldn't trade any of it for anything. I can't imagine my life with out my Tay Tay!

Taylor had some presents to open today. She was very excited and waited all day to open them.

Rylee decided to make Taylor a card and give Taylor some of her new bracelets that she bought with her Christmas money. I think it is so sweet how giving they are with each other and how thoughtful and caring they are. Here is Rylee's Thank You hug from Taylor. So sweet!

I love how my 2nd grader can now read her own Birthday cards all by herself. She was very proud and so was I!

Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday Dear Taylor
Happy Birthday to you!

Yes her birthday "cake" is pumpkin pie. I was able to squeeze 8 candles on there. It's what she wanted I also made her some sugar cookies.

Now she has her Big Birthday Bask to look forward too. I am not so sure about it all. Next week with 13 little girls for a sleep over, what have I gotten myself into?

Bringing in the New Year

2009-01-01T11:03:00.010-07:00

2008 has come and gone. Welcome to 2009.

We had high hopes for bringing in the New Year.

Yes there was just the 3 of us. My BFF Shonna, her cousin Gina and I. Of course the kids were here. Jeremy was in Glamis. He drove out to have fun in the sand with his friends.

It was fun but a pretty dull New Years Eve. Even Diesel wanted to sleep!

We all know Beer before Liquor but weren't to sure on the Wine & Liquor rule. We decided to try our cider first.

The kids all had fun playing. There are my 3 and Shonna's 2, Cory and Maddie.

Maddie and Diesel weren't to sure about the whole sharing thing at first but they look so cute sharing Diesel's chair.

After our cider we decided to try our premade mixers. Just add Tequila. Shonna was our bar tender.

Yes that's 3 drinks. I thought they were pretty good. I wasn't just double fisting. I was triple fisting.

Shonna decided to take a break from her bar tending and play ring around the rosie with the little ones. Diesel loved it.

We were busy watching the dick Clark show over and over. The count down is on.

We all ran outside to wish my Neighborhood and anyone else that could hear a very

Happy New Year!!!! Can you see we were big party animals. I think we finished 1 bottle of wine, and half a bottle of tequila. I ended up with a Rootbeer!

This is Jeremy and us. He called to wish us a Happy New Year! Of course Shonna had to get in on the fun!

Then my mom called and I was passed around to my Great Friend Des and her brother and my dad.

We ended the night playing Scene It on XBox. We were old hags and hit the hay at 3am. It was fun but pretty dull. Looking forward to a GREAT 2009!

Diesel's 2nd Birthday

2008-12-28T23:14:00.005-07:00

Well, 2 years have come and gone since I gave birth to our 3rd and finale baby. My Little guy is now officially 2 years old. It's hard to grasp and let happen since I know he is my last baby.

The day started off with the girls and I getting him out of bed singing Happy Birthday to him. He didn't know what to think. He would hide under his pillow and then peak out and smile. When Jeremy woke up he was playing and calling him his little birthday boy. Diesel thought it was fun but wasn't sure what to think.

We got everything ready for his 2nd Birthday party. At 2pm the guest arrived.

First the kids all played outside in the Bounce House. We had blown up balloons to play with in the house but they ended up in the bouncy. Diesel thought it was great. It was too funny to see. With all the static cling the kids hair was everywhere and the balloons were sticking to the kids.
You can't really read it but Diesel's shirt said
I'm two.... You've been warned!
My Grams and Gramps got it for him and after 6 months he is finally able to wear it. I thought today was the prefect 1st time.

Diesel discovered you could pop the balloons by falling on them. Notice how thy are stuck to his whole body. It was so funny.

Taylor was very sad that she couldn't play. With her hurt ankle it wasn't a good idea for anyone. Instead she sat and watched and pouted a little. But, soon enough she will have fun at her 8th Birthday party!

Of course we had to get a car cake. Diesel loved this hot wheels. It was a wind up car and that in new to him.

When we sang to him he wasn't very happy. He yelled NO and covered his face then made Jeremy pick him up. We were able to get him to blow out his candles but I think it was more Spit on them as 2 of them were trick candles and they never came back on. It was pretty cute.

I had to take the cake away and serve it and he wasn't very happy about that. As you can see we had pizza too and it was all over him.

Now that's better mom Yummy!

Present time. He opened this really cool Cars rug and it has two cars to play with. He didn't want to open anything else. Instead he wanted to play with the cars. It worked out ok because all the kids got to open the presents they gave him.

Once everything was opened he saw that got some cool stuff and wanted to play with it all.

He even decided to climb up on the pool table and drive his car off the edge.

This car was so cute. It was a shape sorter and once all the shapes are in place it drive on it's own. He loved it.

I was able to get a good group shot.

Happy Birthday Diesel.

Our family wouldn't have been complete with out you in it!

My Gimp

2008-12-28T22:56:00.003-07:00

So on Christmas night Taylor was playing with one of Diesel's new toys. A cars Bop Bag. Instead of bopping it she kicked it. But she missed the bag and kicked the entertainment center. It HURT very badly. But she seemed ok.

Then Firday morning Jer was taking a shower and Taylor tripped over his shoes that he left in the hallway. Her right ankel swelled up and she was in a lots of pain. We ended up going shopping all day and she was walking around on it. When we got home, she was favoring her right foot. When we looked at it was the size of a golf ball. Since we had been out shopping all day I decided to have her sleep all night and see how she felt in the AM.

Well Saturday morning it was still the size of a golf ball and she was still in pain. After 3 hours in Urgent Care this is what we have

It isn't a cast. She has a fiberglass brace and then that's wrapped in an ace bandage. We should hear on Monday if it's broken. They DR at urgent care defiantly saw a break but couldn't tell if it was her old one (she broke it when she was 5) or a new one. I think it's new because Taylor had re injured her ankle a few moths after she broke it and when they did the x-rays the DR then couldn't see a break at all. So we shall see. For now Taylor was so excited to get crutches but now realizes then hurt and really are no fun. Rylee has become Tay's personal maid (at her own choice) It's kind of cute to see Rylee helping Taylor so much. She sure loves her big sissy!

A Hanel Christmas

2008-12-25T21:38:00.006-07:00

I felt like I was 10 again this morning. I woke up at 6, 7 and 8am. I am not sure if it was anticipation of the kids waking up or my excitement to see them open their gifts. Any matter, the girls came running in at 8:15. I hopped out of bed with help from Taylor tearing my covers off of me yelling "Mom get up, Santa came last night" I went into Diesel's room to get him up and he wasn't having it. So I made the girls sit on my bed while I went to wake up Jeremy. You see every year Jer just can't get his booty out of bed quick enough and ends up missing half the fun. So this year he decided to sleep on the couch knowing he would have to be up so he wouldn't miss anything. Once Jer was up I went back to get Diesel. Then we all worked our way to the Christmas Tree.

Sure enough Santa had come and all the gifts that had been patiently waiting to be opened over the the last few weeks were finally going to meet their fate of the kids. As always stockings first. Then their Santa gifts and then anything they want.

Daddy helped Diesel check out his new Cars slippers from Santa

Rylee loved the Hannah Montana Wig and Hannah Montana Blanket from Grandma Nae Nae, Papa Glenn and her Auntie Sami

Taylor was so excited with her new RED DS that Grandma Nae Nae, Papa Glenn and Auntie Sami got her. She hasn't put the darn thing down. Santa and Grandma Nae Nae must have been talking because Santa brought Taylor an extra game as well as a carrying case to keep it safe.

My soccer girl was very happy with her soccer kit that Mommy and Daddy got her.

Diesel liked opening his gifts. But once he opened clothes he was done and wanted to take his trucks and play on the pool table.

He knows he is up to no good. Look at that face!!!

Rylee was so excited to get more books. This girls Loves Books! Thank you Uncle Tony, Auntie Kimberly and Baby Jake!

Diesel finally decided to come back over and see what was going on. He loved the Hot Wheel storage case from Grandma May and Papa Bob and sitting is his new Car Chair from the Solem Clan was perfect so that he could use his foot and spin the spinners.

Rye thought it was pretty funny too!

Both the girls made Mommy and Daddy gifts as school. Rye made us 2 ornaments for the tree and Taylor made us a picture snow globe. They were the best gifts we got by far!!!

As you can see Taylor made out. Santa knew she needed a new scooter and she LOVED all of her clothes but her DS was her favorite!

Rylee was spoiled too. She asked for lots of Hannah Montana stuff and she got it! She is already wearing her new Hannah Montana PJs to bed!

Diesel Diesel Diesel. Sure is different having a boy. We left the sea of Pink to go to Red and CARS!! He loved it all. But of course his Cars were his favorite. See he wouldn't even look at me for the picture he was too busy looking at the cars.

Aren't his slippers too cute! And he was thrilled to catch the ball with his new mitt and ball set.

Hey Where's Rylee.... hehe... She looked very cute in her Hannah Montana Wig.

Diesel of course wanted to watch his favorite movie CARS and he decided to cuddle up in his new Cars chair with is new Cars blanket and Cars Pillow. It was priceless. He was off for a nap right after this one. Do you think he was tired?

So all my kids got some sort of game for Christmas. Santa brought Rylee a new Leapster 2, My mom and dad got Taylor her DS and Jeremy some new Xbox games. Of course while I was busy SLAVING away at our Yummy Christmas dinner the kids were all playing games. I had to get a picture. Yes Taylor is in Diesel's chair and no Rylee isn't posed. She was like that the who time she was playing it was just too funny. And Kane didn't want to miss out and what his daddy was doing.

So as I said I slaved away at our very delicious Christmas dinner. I made mashed potatoes, turkey gravy, green bean casserole, yams and rolls.

Jeremy deep fried our 13lb turkey.

Then he got to cut it up. It was so good!

Even though we were all alone it was a very nice Christmas with our Hanel 5. We watched some new movies, I washed all the kids new clothes and we put everything away. The kids got some money and gift cards so we are going to go hit some sales tomorrow.

Hope you all had a Very Merry Christmas too!

Christmas Eve

2008-12-25T21:10:00.005-07:00

Jeremy has Christmas Day and Friday off with out pay so to make up the lost hours of work he has been working long days well into the night. Unfortunately just because it is Christmas Eve that wont change. And once again we find our selves with out any Family this Christmas. But I have the next best thing My Best Friend Shonna and her Family. They are so nice to always include us in any family gatherings they have.

After a lounge full day we got ready and headed to Shonna's parent's house. They had Tamales and Menudo (yuck). So to go with the "Mexican" theme I brought over my corn casserole. It was so nice to be around so many people and over the past few years I have gotten to know her family well. The kids all played and it was fun.

Diesel found a Santa Hat and wanted me to put it on him. Then I was actually able to get a picture. He usually sees the camera and runs.

Rylee was right there with me and wanted a picture too

We left after about 2 and half hours and came home. I wasn't sure if Jer would be there yet or not and to your pleasant surprise he was. The Girls were thrilled with the fact as it's tradition to open on present on Xmas eve and I told them couldn't if daddy wasn't home.

Rylee picked a Make-up set that Mommy and Daddy bought her.

Taylor had her eye on a "book" as she thought it was from her Uncle Tony, Aunt Kimberly and Cousin Jake. She Loves books. And she was right it was the Journey of Shiloh.

I put 3 gifts in front of Diesel to choose from. He picked one from Grandma NaeNae, Papa Glenn and Auntie Sami. It was a Cars blanket and pillow set. Jeremy was laying on the couch watching the kids open gifts and I showed Diesel the pillow and told him Ni-Night and laid my head down. He took the pillow lifted Jer's head and put it under him the covered him with the blanket and climbed on top and laid down. It was so cute!

Shortly after the kids opened their gifts off to bed they went him hopes Old St. Nick would come!

Christmas Cookies

2008-12-24T14:23:00.004-07:00

Growing up my Grandma Gloria was a HUGE baker and cook. Everything was from scratch (still is) She would have me over for a day every year right around Christmas and we would make homemade sugar cookies. It was GREAT! She let me do them how every I wanted. (they looked awful) But looking back it's the best memory I have with her and it was so nice that she would do all that with me. I want my kids to grow up and have that memory with me. I usually bake goodies for my friends and neighbors every year. But, After deciding I didn't want to bake my usual Christmas goodies this year, I kept hearing people talk about all the goodies they were baking or the cookie parties they were going to. I then contemplated the daunting task of baking with myself and 3 kids. In the end the verdict was yes and we set out on our long baking adventure.

I went straight to my recipe box and got my paper and pen. I grabbed my holiday favorites as well as some family recipes. Dug to the back of my pantry and made a shopping list of the things we would need. We set out to the store and 3 hours after I decided we would bake the Baking actually began.

I laid Diesel down for his nap and put Christmas tunes on. As I was setting up I looked up to see the girls dancing away to the Christmas songs. If they weren't dancing they were singing. It was very cute!

The girls traded off in helping. They each would help with a recipe. There were some things they both could do like adding the kisses to the Peanut butter Kiss cookies.

When I was little at Grandma Gloria's house for dinner she always had some homemade desert. Some things I would never try or thought I didn't like. Lemon Squares was one of them. I think they just sounded gross. I decided I would switch things up this year and make some new goodies and Lemon Squares was one of them. After I made a small batch I decided to try them. I must say all theses years I have been missing out. They are Delicious!!! I even made another batch just so I could have some for me!

Every year I make Haystacks. They are so yummy. The girls liked eating the butterscotch chips. I think half the bag ended up in their bellys.

Another dessert I wouldn't eat as a child was Magic Cookie Bars. I am not a fan of coconut. I knew if I made them I would have to give them all away. In the end I am still not a fan but Taylor loved the coconut. I think I might have made them wrong too they didn't seem right.

The Peanut Butter Kiss cookies. They had extra special love this year as the girls placed each kiss on the cookies.

Then there was my mom's famous Chocolate Chip Pumpkin muffins. I again am not a huge fan but I swear everyone else loves them.

We also made Chex Muddy Buddies. So good and Jer's favorite. He was happy when I sent him to work with 2 plates full of Holiday cheer. I bet he saved the muddy buddies for himself.

We started at 2 and finished after 8pm. I had planned on making Crescent cookies My favorite but I was so worn out by the time we were done. I was also going to make Homemade Carmel Corn but I was using all my cookie pans and knew it would be a few more hours it I went ahead with them. I think in all everything turned out great. The kids got to lick the spoons. No one died from the cooking and I handed out all my plates!

4 Day Turkey Vaca Fun

2008-12-05T09:26:00.010-07:00

For the Thanksgiving weekend we set out to Fabulous Las Vegas! Jeremy's family was having a reunion/Thanksgiving Dinner. We woke up Thursday morning packed up the car and set on our way. Aaron followed us there. I must Say, the drive to Vegas from Arizona was the best drive ever! It's ever scenic and pretty fast. We were on the back end of the Grand Canyon and some of the rock formations on the way were awesome. Plus we got to drive over the Hoover Dam. Something we have never done. The Dam was amazing.

We stopped at the top for a quick potty break and Aaron took a picture of us.

It's incredible to know the story and history behind it. Jer had lots information on it. The scene was awesome.

Did you know the middle of the bridge is the Arizona Nevada border?

Notice the time difference. Arizona has it's own time. We are the only state not to change time for Day Light Savings.

This was so cool. They are building a new bridge so that you don't have to cross the dam. The suspension bridge was huge and to think of the men that build it. It's insane! Definitely not a job I would want Jer to do!

We arrived in Vegas at about 2:30 -3pm Thursday. We all relaxed and checked in to the hotel. WE got ready and went to the dinner at the hotel. It was turkey and prime rib buffet. It was yummy. They had the best carrots. I am not a huge carrot fan but the flavor was awesome!

There were so many Aunties and Uncles and cousins. There were 2 boys about Diesel's age there and he had so much fun with is cousin Owen!

Rye, Taylor, Diesel, Easton, Owen and Johnny

This is Jer's part of the family. That would be Jer's Grandpa and Grandma and their kids and grandkids etc... This is only about 1/4 of them. There were about 55 people there in all and we were the smallest group.

It all starts with the core. They are Jer's grandpa and his brothers and sisters. Here they are with their spouses. They all have a ton of kids who all had a ton of kids! In all there are over 200.

Grandma and Grandpa with their Great Grandkids. Aren't they just the cutest! We just adore them!

Friday we were able to hang out and relax. My cousin Nicole lives in Vegas. We had planned to meet for brunch but that didn't work so we meet for Dinner instead. Nicole and her son Jason joined us at our hotel for an all you can eat seafood buffet! Poor Jason wasn't to happy but he finally gave Nicole a chance to eat.

Jason and Diesel

All the kids

Nicole and Jason

Saturday we meet the family again for a deli lunch buffet. It was short and sweet. Since we were done early we decided to take the kids to the strip.

We visited The Secret Garden at The Mirage. It's Sigfried and Roy's attraction with the Lions and dolphins.

Don't you want to just go cuddle with the lion. He looks like a giant stuffed animal.

We didn't get to cuddle them but the kids got to ride one.

We didn't get to see the dolphins real well but here we are in front of one of the ponds.

After the Gardens we were hungry and decided to hit McDonalds. Diesel is such a ham!

Saturday night we went to bed early. We had a drive ahead of us on Sunday.

Of course anything Daddy does Diesel has to do too. He sleeps in his own bed and in his own room so having his porta crib and all of us in the room was an experience.

Ofcousre you can't take a picture of Diesel with out the girls wanting their own Photo shoot.

So we didn't leave as easily as we wanted to but we decided to take a tour of the Hoover Dam on the way back. Not they Vegas wasn't fun but the best part of out 4 days was the tour of the dam.

These angles represent all the lives lost in building the dam. Rumor has it over 100 people lost their lives. Back then when they built it there was no record of the workers and people came and went. Also say that some of the people fell into the concrete pour and are buried in the dam walls.

We took a 90 second elevator ride down to the bottom. We were over 500 below the dam and over 400 feet below the water. They took us into a room where they had pipes with water running though them. We stood on top and you could feel the water vibrations from the massive force is the flowing water. The pipes were used to detour the water when they were building the dam.

Here we are in the generator room. we only saw the top 3 stories of the generators. They good about 7 stories down from where we were. Did you know that Cali gets about 65% of the electricity produced at the dam. We thought that was funny that the 2 states that are part of it get less. Vegas only gets about 15%

The dam tunnels aren't made of concrete. They are the moutian/rock it's self. You could see the spots where they would drill to insert the dynamite.

At the end of the tour we went up to the observation deck.

You could see everything there. It was such a beautiful view.

On our walk back to the car. Diesel wanted his daddy. He sure loves him. This was just such a sweet picture I couldn't resist.

We got home late Sunday night and in all had a good time. To everyone in the Keefe family I think we should have a reunion too! I will help plan it. Who's in?

Zoo Fun

2008-12-04T15:50:00.004-07:00

With my parents in town for Jeremy's graduation, we decided we didn't want to sit home and do nothing. Saturday we decided we wanted to go to the Safari Park. After everyone was up and my Dad's famous Heavenly pancakes it was too late to dive an hour and 1/2 to the park. Instead we decided to head to the World Wild Life Zoo. My friend Shonna joined us. Rylee Diesel and I have been there before. It was Jer and Taylor's 1st time and of course my families.

Papa Glenn had the job of carrying Rylee around the park!

The zoo is so neat. It's mostly African animals and lots of Monkeys. But the animals are so close.

My Mom and Sami had a good time. I thought this was a cute picture of the two of them!

Here's a group Shot. Of course Jeremy had to have some fun with it.

After the Zoo we went to the mall for some lunch and as part of Jer's Graduation gift my parent's bough him some shoes. That night, Aaron came over as well as Shonna and her daughter. Jeremy and my dad made some awesome Chicken and Steak tacos. We had a great time just hanging out. It was sad to see my family leave Sunday morning!

The Graduate

2008-12-04T15:22:00.003-07:00

It all started with an idea to move to Arizona and follow his passion. After 1 year 8 months 2 days .... 5 days a week for 5 hours a day with only 1 week off at Christmas

Jeremy has GRADUATED!

Our Girls got to see their daddy graduate. It was a great day for all of us!

Here he is with his favorite teacher.

He made lots of friends. Most of them graduated before Jeremy and moved on. Rob and Jer started the 1st day together and graduated together. Rob is now back in Cali but they keep in touch.

For his Graduation Dinner my family took us to the Tilted Kilt and fun restaurant.

I am so Proud of my man! He set his mind to something and he followed through. Jeremy went to school Monday -Friday and worked full time. There were many days he was going on only 4-5 hours of sleep and he was busting his butt to support his family.

Of course my Best Friend was there to help us celebrate.

Although I don't have a photo of Aaron Jer's older bother I did get a picture of Aaron's gift for Jeremy. I think Jeremy liked it!!

Breast Cancer 3-Day

2008-11-20T07:59:00.014-07:00

The Breast Cancer 3-day was the most rewarding, amazing, awesome experience I have ever had. Truly words can't even explain how the walk makes you feel.
Thursday Night-
So Thursday night my BIL brought me to Shonna's house. Her parents picked us up and we were on our way. My bag was packed. Full of everything our 3-Day handbook recommended we bring. I had to borrow a lot of things. Thankfully my friend Alison was willing to let me use everything even her kitchen sink. We arrived at our hotel, the Hilton, and met with our Team. Our team is called "This One's for the Girls" our members are, Me, my friend Shonna, Shonna's mom Patty, Patty's two sisters; Debbie and Kathy, Debbie's daughter Kim and Kim's friend Andrea and then Patty's friend Stella. Once we were all ready we headed to Dinner at the Olive Garden. Everyone was dropped off at the hotel because there is a shuttle that brings us to the opening ceremonies and a shuttle that will bring us to dinner. Well when we were ready for dinner we asked about the shuttle only to find out it was busy. So we walked. As if 60 miles the next 3 days isn't enough we walk about 1 to dinner. It wasn't all that bad. Dinner was so yummy and it was so nice to be hubby and kid free! We walked back to the hotel and got our stuff ready for the morning. Then Christmas came. Shonna's mom and our Team Captain Patty, bought us all a ton of little things. So she gave us everything. Andrea, Kim Shonna and I were sharing a room so after "Christmas" us young ladies were ready for bed. It was the older ladies that wanted to stay up all night! We called for a wake up call and set all our alarms. It was about 10:30pm and 4:15am was going to come real quick!
Friday Day 1
Yes sure enough! It was my alarm that went off first and I jumped out of bed. Andrea and I were wide awake. We decided to shower in the morning so Andrea jumped in then me and Shonna was last. We got all ready and packed our bags back up and headed to the lobby of the hotel. Once everyone was there we headed to the Shuttle line. A Huge Bus picked us up and brought us to the park were Opening Ceremonies were being held. We loaded our bags on another bus so that they could be transported to our camp. Then we started the walk to the Holding Area. As we turned the curve and saw the hill you could see a sea of Pink and People, Balloons and signs. It was amazing. Just seeing it made me teary eyed. It was about 6:30am and we already had people there cheering us on. The News Choppers were out and the I was in company with over 2,000 people that were about to embark on this journey with me. Everyone from Teens to Great Grandmas. 18-70. Survivors, mothers, daughters, husbands and friends. The creativity was endless. Boobie Bra hats, fun names like Jeautiful Bugs (Beautiful Jugs), Babes BUSTin Out, Bust Buddies, Don't steal 2nd Base, Nurses for Knockers and so many more. We were joined by 350 men who walked as well. As we got ready in the holding area the ceremony stared. There were selected people holding these giant flags that said who they were walking for. A man holding one for his wife, a daughter holding one for her mother, a wife holding one for her husband (Men can get Breast Cancer too!) a woman holding one for herself. As the talking started they stared lining up with the flags. They talked about why we walk, who we walk for the loved ones we have lost and the ones we are saving. I started crying. The woman who was walking for her husband some how really got to me. As he walked by her to form the anti cancer circle she patted him on the back and it was just so sweet. Then as they started talking about the ones we have lost I look over and see a man in his 40's balling. He had lost his wife and it's bad enough to hear the words but to put a face with the hurt and see a man cry killed me I lost it. The tears were falling. This man was there for a woman he loved, probably the mother of his children, the woman he said I do to, and had planned on spending the rest of his life with her, only to have her taken him from him way to early. He was there walking in hopes that another husband wouldn't have to experience the hurt he was. The start was an emotional ride, excitement, pride, love, sadness, anguish, then joy. The walking was starting and you knew it was going to be a journey and an interesting 3-Days. So we walked! We stared out in a town called Gilbert. We walked though a very neighborhoods most of the day. People were outside there houses with signs of encouragement. There were signs for certain teams posted all over the streets. Then we had the Crew. They were amazing. The Crew was all volunteer. Guys riding motorcycles following us to help with traffic, blaring their music and they rode buy. Some of the guys had pink helmets, pink camo pants, pink laces in there boots, Some had boobies on their bikes and boob glasses. There was one helmet I saw that said in memory of Kathy. I think it was his wife. He was helping us cross the streets and cheering us on because his wife passed away and this was his way of giving back. There were Vans all decorated and had big speakers on top. They would clap and yell as they drove by. They were there for assistance if someone was hurt or couldn't walk, they would take us to the next stop for help. There were bike riders they also encouraged us and helped with traffic as well. Shonna and I stayed together the whole time. We walked and talked and observed. It was so fun. After 2.5 miles we came to our 1st Pit Stop. Every Pit stop has bathrooms, food, and drinks and there is a medical tent. At the first pit stop we also were greeted with a group of Firemen in pink shits! I was in HEAVEN!!! I LOVE FIREMEN!!!! They are HOT!!!! We grabbed some snacks and hit the road. at pit stop 4 there were more fireman. We took a potty break and took some pictures. Along the way there were lots of people out with signs and words of encouragement. People would honk there horns as they drove by. There was one older couple that drove around all 3 days and yelled and honked and cheered us on. They were so cute. They wore pink wigs, painted their car and had pick boas. After walking 8.8 miles we came to an official cheering station. There were little kids holding signs saying we love you mommy, people dressed up, people with candy and water for us. It was so inspiring. Theses people camped out all day just for us. Just to encourage us and Thank us. You felt like a movie star! After 9.9 miles we had lunch. It was pretty good. We were able to relax and rest for a bit then we were on our way again. We arrived at camp after walking 20 miles at about 3:45. Shonna and I were the fist ones from our team to arrive. We were kind enough to set up every one's tents and get situated for the next 3-days. At about 5:30ish we decoded to head over to the shower line. We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into! lol... It was in all it's own little adventure. So we sit in line and wait! and wait and wait some more. It took us about an hour to get in the shower. They had brought in theses giant trailers that had 14 showers in them. You could pretty much do a circle in place in the shower. Then modesty is out the window. You have about the same amount of room to dry off and get dressed but with the other 7 women in your section. No walls or barriers. It was fun! After our shower Shonna and I put our stuff away and ate dinner. We had Spaghetti. It was ok. The salad was really good! During dinner they had speakers, karaoke, advice and encouragement. After diner I headed over to the medical tent. My left hip was in so much pain. I couldn't walk right. The medical tents have physical therapists, chiropractors and medics. I saw the PT. She stretched me out, rubbed and gave me some stretched for the morning. Lights out at camp are 9pm. I was ready for bed at 7:30! I was asleep before the lights went off. We camped at an elementary school. WE were in the fields. There were busy roads around us and I wore earplugs to sleep. Shonna would try and talk to me and I would either yell back at her or couldn't hear at all . It was pretty funny. It wasn't too cold. I survived Day 1, 20 miles and all the emotions. But with my pain I wasn't sure I would be able to walk in the morning.
Saturday Day 2
Camp starts the day at 5am. Lights on. We woke up at 6:45. Every stop and camp has opening and closing hours. We had to be out of camp by 8am. WE got up got dressed and headed to breakfast. Breakfast was AWESOME!!! Eggs, potatoes, beacon, oatmeal, cereal, fruit, yogurt. I was nice and full. We left camp at 7:45. My pain was gone and I was good to go. The walking starts. We walked in Chandler, Awatukee and Tempe today. Everyone said the 2nd day was the hardest but for me it was the BEST!! The crowds that came to cheer us on were amazing. It was so motivating. They had everything and anything we could ever want! Water, Gatorade, candy, otter pops, gum, Advil, oranges, spray bottles, bead necklaces, cause bracelets, signs, stickers (never knew I would be so excited about stickers) claps, Thanks Yous, Encouragement. Just knowing all the effort and time they took for us. It was so rewarding. Right from the start we were up hill. Saturday was full of hills to conquer. As far as Crew it was all the same. I ran into 2 people I knew were walking. One of Taylor's friends mom's, Lisa. Her sister is a survivor. They had walked it last year and I would talk to her about what to expect. I also saw a mom from Rylee's cheer leading squad. She had 5 blisters. I was lucky to not get any but Shonna had 2 VERY bad ones on her heals. Today was a major challenge for her. After 9.9 miles we ate lunch. It was pretty good. It was a chicken wrap with pineapple, lettuce, rice and some kind of teriyaki sauce. After lunch Shonna wasn't looking so good. I didn't realize how much pain she was in. She walked on her toes for a long ways. But then something happened. And she was a mad woman with a 2nd wind. He feet kicked into high gear. Together she over came the pain and walked on! I was starting to hurt. I hyper extended the muscle behind my knee. It was from passing people and going up and off the curb. I too over came and walked on. about the last mile I saw a lady with a flag. I chased her down and asked if I could carry it. It said Challenges. We sure were overcoming them and it was prefect! I carried it to camp. Shonna and I were again the 1st ones from our group back to camp. We arrived at 3:40 after walking just over 20 miles. I was so sore that once I sat down I couldn't get back up. I needed to rest. As as were relaxing in our tent I saw a man who was sleeping in a tent across from us. He was all lone. I asked him why he was walking. He was doing it for his mom. She had passes away 5years ago and Sunday would be her Birthday. After awhile we hit the shower lines and got another adventure. This time there was a lady massaging us. It was so nice! After our shower we had dinner. It was Chicken Picata. It was ok. Shonna and I decided to see the chiropractor and that felt so good. WE got back to our tents and snuggled in. We took some silly pictures and laughed until we feel asleep just after lights out. 2 Days down and only 20 miles left!
Sunday Day 3
Since today was our last day we had to take down our tents and pack everything up before we left camp. Shonna's blisters were still pretty bad so she had to have them wrapped. We were up at 5:30am. I packed our sleeping bags and put all my stuff away. Once Shonna got back from medical and was packed we took our tent down. After we were all set we headed to another GREAT breakfast. Again we had Eggs, potatoes, sausage, cream of wheat, cereal, fruit, yogurt and a blintz. Boy was it yummy. At breakfast there were 3 ladies across from us. We started talking to them. They flew in from Indiana. 2 were sisters and both survivors and there mom was a 2 time survivor. The lady they were with, her mom had passed away. Her sister was supposed to walk too but she found out she was pregnant and the doctor wouldn't let her. The sister who was diagnosed first had said that it was harder for her when her sister was diagnosed then when she was. She said she knew what she was going to go through and knew there was nothing she could do to help her. The sister who was last diagnosed just finished chemo in August and had just had her last radiation the week before Wed. They decided to do the walk in August and all of them raised over $2200 in just a few months. They said when they would open the envelopes and see some of the checks they got it was un real! We all made a potty break before we headed out of camp. There was a lady in line. She was a 15 year survivor and today was her birthday. We had to be to of camp by 7:45 and we were gone by 7:30. Today is the last day. So far it has been awesome and I pushed myself. Only 20 miles left. At the 1st pit stop I saw the Best Friends flag. Since I was walking this journey with my Best Friend I wanted that flag so bad. I asked the ladies and they were happy to hand it off. I didn't have it very long before someone asked me for it. But at least I got to carry it! We walked thought the ASU campus and Downtown Tempe, Over Tempe lakes and up by the Phoenix zoo. In Downtown Tempe a lady handed Shonna the Embraces flag. She had it for along time and all through Papago Park, talk about a challenge. My leg still hurt and I was limping and pretty slow up and down the hills of the park. The scenery was beautiful and I knew this was the last day. The wind was blowing and it kept pushing the flag. When we reached the top of the park Shonna had me hand it off. We were done with Flags!!! As we entered Scottsdale and came to the cheering station we saw Shonna's dad. It was so cool to see someone we knew and know they were there for us! We got to lunch and meet up with our Shower buddies. We were at lunch for a VERY long time. As we were leaving we ran into Shonna's family and took some pictures with them. Then the walk to the finish line began. Again all the support and encouragement was so motivating. I can't explain it other then feeling like a movie star. It was so inspiring and gave you that little extra push to keep on going. Right when you feel like your spent there is are some people to cheer you on, to remind you of what your doing and why your doing it. Again Shonna and I were way ahead of our group. We approached the final holding area and waited. We had decided at the beginning of the day that who ever go there first they would wait till everyone was there and enter together. As Shonna and I approached the finish your stomach gets butterflies. You see the walkers that finished and the crew that were done. They are all there yelling and clapping and congratulating you. It was such a huge accomplishment. My eyes welled up tears and I had to fight them off. Shonna and I found a nice shady grass area and sat until the rest of our team came. As other walkers came in we were now the one's giving praise. It felt GREAT! Once our team arrived we all hugged. The we held hands and walked into the holding area where we were greeted with more cheers. We checked in and received a T-Shirt and a pink rose. Then we had to wait. Closing ceremonies weren't until 4:30 and it was 2:30. Again we found a shady area and sat and relaxed. We relished in our victory and reminisced on the past 3 days.
As 4:30 grew closer we all cheered and thanked the crew. Then we all got together and started our walk to the final field. As we entered the stadium and saw all our supporters in the stands it was such a great sight. Again knowing that what we were doing really meant something to so many people. To know that we re making a difference in someones life. It was a great joy!We all gathered in the walker area and again were reminded why we walk. We saluted the crew, our selves and the survivors. We took off one shoe and raised it high to show the survivors they aren't alone and that one day we will all be survivors as we put this awful cancer behind us and rid our loved ones a pain no one wants. Kim and Andrea met the guy who was holding the For My Wife flag Saturday he had rolled his ankle. He did it again Sunday. This time they said he had to go to the hospital and they think it is broken. He refused. He continued walking 5 miles in a broken ankle because he had to hold that flag for his wife. When he came on stage and then was joined by his wife and daughter. I lost it. Knowing his story and what he had to endure to be where he was at that moment it was amazing.
60 miles later I did it. I prayed for the strength to get me through. I prayed for the courage to walk while others can not. I prayed for safety and I succeeded.
3 Days
+1 Cause
4 A Cure
I will be doing it again next year! I would love to have my loved ones join me. It is something I will never forget. The people you meet, The accomplishment you feel, the inner strength you find. It's all worth the pain and tears. Those 3 days are 3 of the best days of my life. And to know I am helping make a change in the world. In the End I truly walk because I can't walk away

Thursday
On our way to the hotel... Me, Shon, and her Mom Patty

At the hotel before dinner

@ Dinner

Friday Morning waiting for the bus

At the Opening Ceremony

Our Team

The Start of the walk

The fisrt of many steps

Shonna and I

This guy was everywhere. He was just watching and cheering. He had a diffrent outfit everytime. He was my favorite

HOT HOT Fireman!!!

Lunch the 1st Day

We look pretty good for just walking 20 miles in a day .. Dont you think?

The typical... Shonna chillin while I do all the work!

After out 1st Shower

Physical Theryapy

Saturday Day 2

Here is that guy again!

SO many walkers!

Lunch Day 2

And here he is again!

This guy crossed a 5 lane rode just to hand out water to the walkers.

Haha... The Walker Stalker!

This melted my heart it was 2 teen girls and their mom. Wouldn't this help you keep going too!

This lady De-Virginzed us! lol... We were 1st time walkers and she put a pink ribbion on our shoes.

Chilaxen in the tent

The Towel Lady

Tent City. All out tents were pink. There were 2 more fields of them. We were in row C. All the tents are doanted to the girl scouts after the walk.

Our team had a Tent Party!

Sunday Day 3

Bright and ealry on Day 3

Our new shower friends!

This guy drove around all 3 days and had a moblie mister. It was so refreshing!

Only 1 mile to go!

We made it now we get to relax for a few hours

It's time

Walkers!

Survivors circle and the rasing of the flag

Our Team! This One's for the Girls

Holding our shoes up in honor to the survivors

We did it!

Working at the Car Wash

2008-11-03T07:51:00.004-07:00

Sunday Aaron my Bother in Law was here and he wanted the kids to wash his car. I told him he had to wash mine too and my friend said hers as well. So we put the kids to work with some slave labor and got 3 cars washed. Needless to say it wasn't slave labor when the kids got involved. They had so much fun.

Diesel saw his uncle turn the water on and he figured he would give it a try. Can you see how happy he is!
With all the play some work did get done!
Rylee is actually being productive and getting more soap on her sponge.
Diesel on the other hand...

well the bubbles are just too much fun!

Rylee decided that the babies were having too much fun splashing in the the bubbles and she wanted to help out. Notice Diesel covered in them head to toe

Diesel figured he was good on his own. He would put his hands in the bucket and then fling them around and get bubbles everywhere. He loved it!

I think at this point he decided hey why not go swimming!

I think Aaron is the only one working now. The kids just had so much fun!

In all 3 cars got washed and they looked pretty darn good!

A Visit from the Tooth Fairy

2008-11-02T21:11:00.003-07:00

Rylee lost her very 1st tooth on Tuesday. She was at school and in PE when it happened. She went to the nurse and they put it in a cool little tooth necklace. As soon as I picked her up she was just so excited.

Diesel wanted to get in on the pictures too.

Rye had great spacing in her tooth so it looks like she lost 2 but she lost her bottom front right tooth.

She wanted to bring the tooth to Taylor's soccer practice. I told her it was a bad idea and she was going to loose it. But of course she had to. She didn't' loose it at practice but she lost it somewhere at home or in the car. Taylor being the GREAT big sister that she is wrote a note to the Tooth Fairy for Rylee. The tooth fairy took the note instead of her tooth and left $1 in quarters under Rylee's pillow. The next morning she was so excited. It was soo cute. After watching Taylor for years loose all her teeth and get money Rylee joined the club. She has her other 3 front teeth loose too so anytime we could have a visit from the tooth fairy.