TheHunsters

A fun week

2009-11-11T11:15:00.000-08:00

Playing outside with Emilio...

Just being beautiful.

She brought me that flower.

We watched Bolt at Jodi's house...

We went to the pumpkin patch...

Went to Miami...

Got tricked into helping her cousin clean her room...

gave Beany a taste of his own medicine, after dealing with him bothering them all week...

and last but not least, we played dress-up just about everyday. Here she is demonstrating how the Prince is supposed to kiss Snow White, to wake her up. She had me cracking up.

A week after baby Kalel was born, big sister Brianna came to stay with us for a week. We were so excited to have her over. I knew my week was going to be full of unexpected fun when I woke up the first morning with my daughter telling that Brianna had taken it upon herself to get a yogurt from the fridge, and a spoon from the drawer, walked into the play room, sat at the picnic table and started eating. Ahhh... my niece. I love her.

Alone Time

2009-11-08T12:07:00.000-08:00

My hubby and I haven't had any real time to ourselves recently. He works six days a week, and about 13-15 hr. days. Needless to say... I have really started to miss him. This weekend, Joey's parents took the kids, along with their cousin Julian to Sebring. Although we missed them TREMENDOUSLY, we really needed that time. Joey DID work Saturday, but that evening we finished watching The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (such a sad, but beautiful movie) and cuddled on the couch. This morning (Sunday) we decided to sleep in, wake up... whenever (what a feeling that was) and go for a late breakfast. We drove down A1A with the windows down, stopping into The Sports Authority to get my Obe some new kicks. We drove home, and enjoyed a nice long nap. Sunday afternoon naps are the best. I'm now enjoying some hot tea, and my last bit of peace and quiet while thinking about how much I truly love him. We sometimes get so caught up in what we think we don't have in our relationships, that we forget to focus on the beautiful, yet sometimes simple, things we do have. We drove by La Bamba, the restaurant where we had our first "date". If you call myself, him, his brother, and his friend German a romantic date ;). Then we drove by the Barnes & Nobles where we spent most of our time, and our last stop, was Ruth's Chris, the restaurant we dined in for our 1st Anniversary.
It was so nice to go down memory lane, and just remember our beginnings.

Happy 2nd Birthday Miranda!

2009-11-08T11:50:00.000-08:00

My niece Miranda celebrated her second birthday October 17th. The cool thing about her actual birthday, is she shares it with her daddy (my brother). She had a blast singing and dancing, playing dress-up, and eating her Dora cake.

Happy Birthday Kalel!

2009-11-08T06:20:00.000-08:00

The Kidd family

I <3>

HE'S HERE!!

Big sister Brianna had just woken up from a nice long nap.

Grandma & Auntie awaiting the arrival of our baby Kalel.

2009-11-08T00:21:00.001-08:00

There is so much to talk about. I have lots of new pics to share. I should be back here tomorrow (hopefully). Have a great Sunday!

CAN IT BE WINTER NOW??!!

2009-09-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one that's OVER this gross heat? I just can't take it anymore! My car feels like a sauna, first thing in the morning, I start sweating the moment I step out my front door to get the mail, sometimes I wish we were back in the garden, then I could run around naked, and no one would care. Last week the high was 93, can you believe it? Today it's 82 - a little better, but still not good enough for me. Alright, I'm done complaining. Just had to get that out.

Who said summer's coming to an end?

2009-09-17T07:13:00.001-07:00

While on a recent trip to the Salvation Army with the kids, I came across a rack of old swimsuits. Now, I NEVER buy other people's old swimsuits... that's just gross. I started going through the rack when I came across a swimsuit I never thought I would ever find myself being drawn to. It was bright yellow, and had bright blue and pink circles all over it... IT WAS AMAZING! So bright and cheerful... it screamed happiness!
Now, I'm not a fan of most 80's fashion, but to me, the swimsuits are crazy cool. Since I don't buy old swimsuits, I thought I'd come home and look some up that I might like. These two were my favorite. The top one is the coolest... I think, and the one I would wear. You can find it at:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29641464
for only $14.00. That's a steal! Summer is definitely not over for me, in fact... it's just getting started!

Just do it... it's so much fun!

2009-09-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

So this morning I did my usual stuff on the computer. I checked Odesk to see if any one had responded to my applications, checked twitter, purchased 4 Princesses On Ice tickets, and then went over to Facebook before getting off. While I was responding to some of my messages on Facebook, I noticed a picture of a friend of mine that looked like a middle school picture from the 90's. It was pretty funny. When I clicked on it, I saw the website www.yearbookyourself.com, and I just had to check it out.

These are only three of the 19 pictures that I did. If you need a little laughter in your day, or if your just really curious to see what you would look like in those hairstyles(I was), than you need to go check this out.

* WARNING YOU WILL EXPERIENCE UNINHIBITED LAUGHTER *

I'm back!!

2009-09-07T05:47:00.000-07:00

After a long time away, I'm finally back.

So much has happened. We moved, celebrated birthdays, started school, and so much more. My mind has been all over the place lately so it's nice to finally sit and let a little bit of everything out.

Amiyah started first grade at Faith Christian School, and is loving it. When I went to pick her up on only her second day of school, her teacher said she wasn't following directions. She couldn't get into detail because other parents were showing up to retrieve their own children, and get a note home as well, but she told me Amiyah had a note in her bag for me to read. Once home, Amiyah got right to her usual routine - Taking out any papers I need to read and sign (sigh) as well as her homework, putting her lunchbox in the fridge, changing her clothes, sitting down for a snack, and then some time to relax before we start homework and chores. While she was changing I went to the table where lying in front of me was a letter written in the cutest stationary, it had apples and tiny school houses on it. But no matter how cute, I still felt uneasy. I opened it and this is what it said, " Mrs. Zarazua, I had to ask Amiyah four times today to follow directions. You will see on the work she brought home from today what I'm talking about. Please speak with her or else this can affect her grade." I crumpled up the letter and frantically searched through all her work to find the one, or maybe two pages, that have red scribbles all over them. I got it! But wait, are you serious? This is why my little Poppy is in trouble, can this really affect her grade? Looking down at her math papers, I saw the dreaded red scratches from Mrs. Giovino's pen, and quite honestly... I laughed! My daughter is such an artist, and with every stroke of her pencil she released her inner Picasso. She got into trouble because she was making little curly q's at the end of every single number she wrote. I sat with her at the table with a smile on my face and asked why it was she did that. She said, " Mommy because I'm an artist, and that's what we do. I was just trying to be creative." These are the moments I wish I was homeschooling. My daughter would be free to make all the curly q's heart little heart desired. Needless to say, she now knows curly q's are for outside of school only.

Change has come

2009-06-19T05:20:00.001-07:00

I feel an explanation is in order for the slacking off that I have done as far as posting. I can blame it on many things, but the truth of the matter is, my mind has just been in, and currently still is in, about 4 different directions.
Let me start off by saying just how incredibly awesome our Lord is. Not just in our times of need... but always. My love has been without a job since last November. He has had many odd jobs since, including a job with a guy that has since become a close friend of his, but nothing permanent, with good pay, and benefits. Being that the number of job losses increases almost daily, we knew it would truly be the hand of God if my love found a job. So, he set off to prepare himself for just about the only positions that he could find that were still available... truck driving. He went to school, and completed all the classes and tests to get his CDL class A license. Now the hard part. After applying for just about every available position he could find, we had to wait, in the hopes that someone out there would give a guy with little experience a chance.
Meanwhile... for the past few months we have been trying to sell our condo. For obvious reasons, we simply couldn't afford it anymore. We have a contract on it now, and since it's a short sale, we were just waiting on the approval from the banks on the price. After a few more months, we have come to find out, the banks have approved the amount.
After finding this out, Joey got a call from Choice Environmental Services about a truck driving job. He went in for the interview, took the driving test, and had a drug test. A week later he got the call... "You got the job." We were both thrilled beyond belief. So, now with a new job in place, condo sold, we were on the search for an apartment. I wasn't very thrilled though, I have become quite tired of apartment living. Sharing the washer/dryer, pool, and hearing constant bumping, loud kids, and even louder radios and televisions above us... we were so over it.But then again, whatever the Lord had in store, we were willing to accept. That all worked out for us in the end, no one seemed to want to take a chance on a guy with a brand new job. So... we started looking for single family homes to rent for the year. While talking to my Pastor and his wife, he mentioned that Joe Novelo, Pastor, Executive Director of Missionary Resource Network, and missionary in Brazil, had a house not very far from ours for rent. Oh, and get this, he just happened to be in town from Brazil trying to find someone to rent the house. He came to our church last weekend to share what has been going on in Brazil. Joe and I had lunch with him, and talked about the house. Ladies and gentelman, as of last night, we will be renting his house from him! We are just so thankful to the Lord. Even through these tough times, He still makes a way.
More updates to come.

Best Friends

2009-06-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

Today I decided to do a mini photo shoot with Caleb & Emilio outside while they were playing. I have been watching little Caleb since he was about 9 months old. Him and Emilio have become the best of friends. Since I'm not a fan of posed pictures, I decided to just let them do their thing, and just snap away, hoping I would get at least a few good ones I could frame. They ran, they jumped, they even took turns wearing Emilio's hat. They share a bond that's closer than friends, it's more like a brotherhood. They ate dirt together, pulled out handfuls of grass to give to the other one to taste, it really was cute. Oh, and don't worry, I stepped in once Emilio turned to look at me, and I noticed all his teeth were black.
So, I sat back in the grass on this hot summer day, taking these pictures that one day I hope, they will both appreciate. Just watching them run and play brought me back to the beginning, when they first met. There were lots of fights over toys, food, you name it. But they have since matured into bouncy 2-yr old boys that actually look out for each other now. They bring each other their sippy cups, when Beany gets two m&m's for going potty, he always asks for them both to be the same color so that he can give one to his bestest friend, Caleb, and Caleb is actually the ONLY person he shares his cars with, besides his papi of course.
This was fun. Now I have to get Amiyah together with some of her bestees for their own shoot.

Confession -

2009-06-04T10:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I awoke, and did something I haven't done in an entire year. Now now, allow me to explain. Since my brother's murder people have been asking, " How is your relationship with the Lord? " I always answer them honestly, stating that, "It's fine." I read my Bible, and pray almost daily. But the one thing I haven't been able to bring myself to do is worship. I haven't spent good quality time in the presence of my Lord while listening to worship in over a year. For a very simple reason. I have not wanted the comfort of the Lord. You see, for this entire year, besides the unbeliveable amount of memories my mind has been able to get ahold of, the only thing I had left, the only thing still connecting me to Randall,apart from his shorts that still lay under my mattress, and his shoe that still sits on my nightstand, in my mind, were my tears. The ripping through my heart that I still feel today. I was afraid that if I let God in, He would heal me of it all, and I would lose the connection, even though painful, that I had with him. I was not ready to heal. The wonderful thing about God is, He waits. He waits, knowing that the day will come when I will throw myself in His arms because I just can't seem to carry this any longer. The burden of my grief, I was carrying alone. At times I felt like I had a stone wrapped around my ankle, and someone had picked me up and thrown me into the sea. I was sinking in my grief, gasping for air. All the while my Lord was there, ready to cut the cord, and take me back to the surface.The weight has been lifted,and the void, the emptiness I thought I'd feel in the place in my heart where Randall belonged is not there, but he is. I still feel him, I still hear him, I still see his smile. I know for sure I will see him again. So,today my Jesus has taken me in His arms, and assured me that through it all He will never leave me, nor forsake me. Thank you Abba, for waiting for my return.

Mother's Day Celebration!

2009-05-11T11:30:00.000-07:00

Saturday night my parents, myself, and my brother and sister, went out to City Place to take our mom to Taverna Opa for dinner. We had an absolute blast! The food was amazing, (I had lobster tail and opa fries) but the ambiance was even better. We couldn't help but shake our hips and shoulders to the Middle Eastern music playing loudly in our ears. There wasn't a still table in the place. Every so often the belly dancers would come from the back with their costumes that were full of color, and a whole lot of sparkle. They would come around each and every table clanging their finger cymbals together and shaking their hips. They jumped up on the bar, and even right on top of people's tables as they were eating. But of course no one cared, some people even put their forks down and jumped up there with them. If it's a quiet night out your looking for... Taverna Opa is NOT the place for you. Later in the evening, the servers come around passing out entire packs of napkins. Everyone in the restaurant either stands on their tables or chairs and starts dancing. The music gets louder and louder, and everyone is dancing and singing awaiting the DJ's... OPA! Once he says that, EVERYONE in the place throws the napkins in the air, and all you see is a white shower of napkins. And then, my friends, the real dancing begins! My parents even got up and were doing their thing, it was really cute!
I hope you ladies are up for it because that's where my Birthday dinner is going to be this year. Hmmm... I might even get myself a set of finger cymbals.

Are these the coolest?

2009-05-07T10:45:00.001-07:00

So, I was paying a visit to one of my favorite blogs oh happy day, when I came across this post. I just think these napkin invites are the coolest things ever! Although I was not blessed with the great ability to draw, I'm sure I can come up with something neat to put on one of our dinner napkins. How about a love note to my one true love? Or an invite to a tea party on pink napkins for Amiyah's friends? The possibilities are endless.

Changeling

2009-05-06T13:11:00.001-07:00

So while the kids were down for peaceful naps, I took full advantage and rented Changeling on itunes. I have been dying to see it. I really don't do thrillers - I find myself not sleeping for days just because I can't get the images out of my head, but after finding out it was a true story, and getting great reviews from some very reliable sources (my girls) I decided to watch it. So as to not ruin the movie for those who haven't had the pleasure of seeing it, I won't give anything away. I will simply say, it was a great movie. I cried almost the entire time. To know that something this devastating really happened, and that this women was able to stay focused on finishing what had been started... was truly inspiring. It's a must see, for sure!

It's not even 9:30 in the morning...

2009-05-05T05:49:00.000-07:00

I woke up at 6:45 this morning to get my Amiyah off to school. I was a little grouchy, but let no one know it. You see yesterday I went running at 5:30 in the morning, and decided to wear my old running shoes. Everything was great except for the fact that I had forgotten to put on the right socks. I ended up wearing little ankle socks that slid down into my shoe, and caused the back of my foot to rub up against the back of my shoe, therefore creating the nastiest blister I had ever seen. However, I didn't even know I had a blister until cool down, when the pain really started. I limped to my car and took off my shoe and sock, to reveal the blister. Now, I was upset this morning because I wanted to go walking this morning but couldn't because my foot hurt so bad.
So, off Amiyah went to school. I always go back to bed when Joe leaves the house to take her because the Bean is still sleeping and so I figure I'll get in at least another hour before he wakes up.
Not today. I fell asleep about 7:18, and a little after 8 was woken up to the sound of squirting. I jumped from my bed, horrified that he had a spray bottle and was spraying everything in sight - he's done it before. So where was the Bean? He was sitting in my desk chair, yup the very one I'm sitting in now, spraying my mac with water. I was horrified. I flew from the bed, snatched the spray bottle from him ( I apologized later ) and just stood there in shock. The Bean jumped from the chair and ran off in fear, he knows that no one is allowed to mess with mommy's computer. After wiping down every inch of my beloved computer, I plopped down in the chair rubbing my eyes and said to myself, " Lord, is this just a glimpse of what my days going to be like? "

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T13:07:00.000-07:00

I love earth day, a day to celebrate this beautiful planet our gracious God has given us. If we haven't already, let's make a conscience effort to take care of it, everyday of our lives. If we each do our part, it will make a big difference. So, what do I plan on doing this year? I plan to do more recycling! Not just organizing plastic and paper, making sure to put them in their proper bins. I plan to think before I throw things away. Some things can be used as storage, art projects, and much more. How will you make our planet a better place?

Goodness me!

2009-04-06T20:06:00.000-07:00

Well here I am. It has been a long and hectic past couple of weeks.
About three weeks ago, I took three days to potty train our Bean, and he is doing exceptionally well. He has been in big boy underwear since day one. During the day when he needs to use the potty he comes and tells either myself or Joe, and he even told the teacher in the nursery he had to go pee, (something we were afraid he wouldn't do) I saw the two of them rushing to the bathroom with his potty seat in hand. It was cute, he was all smiles. At night he sleeps with his underwear, as well as during his naps. He wakes himself up and yells, " Mommy, potty! " And then Joey or I rush in to help him to the bathroom. We are so proud of our little crazy-haired guy.

The following week, the Bean, along with some of his close friends, took swimming lessons. My poor Bean cried all week. The funny thing was, even though he was screaming his head off, he was picking up everything the instructor had taught him. He floats on his back, and when dropped in the pool, will turn around and swim to the wall. On Friday, the last day of swim class, the parents got a chance to get in the pool with the kids to practice everything they had learned, so that we are well prepared to continue the lessons at home. Since his lessons, we have been to the pool quite a few times, and each time we go, my Bean is more and more confident in his ability to swim. Just about everyday after picking up Amiyah from school ( that's usually when we go ) he says, " Mommy, we go cool? " - that's how he says pool. ; ) He jumps off the wall, side into the water, swims to the wall, slides along the wall with his hands, climbs the steps, and does it all over again. I think it's the cutest thing because he's just so tiny.

A week after that I started walking with some ladies from church. I get up around 4:30-4:45 and meet at a park in Coral Springs by 5:30 to walk my 3-4 miles every morning. I'm trying to get myself into gear. I've been doing a lot of 5k walks, but I want to start running them. So, yesterday I started running as well. It was a little rough, seeing as how I haven't really ran in quite a while.

So, when I have a free moment hopefully soon, I will be uploading pictures.
Until then...

Coming soon....

2009-03-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

Don't fret my dears, a new post is coming soon! Since I am no longer digital ( Amiyah broke my camera) but manual, I now have to take the rolls in to be put on CD before I can post them. Instead of taking one roll in at a time, I usually wait until I have quite a few, and then drop them off all at once. I will be picking up six CD's this afternoon, and should have some pictures up by tomorrow. Keep a lookout!

First Day of Spring

2009-03-20T12:23:00.001-07:00

For those of us living in South Florida, the first day of spring only means it's time to bust out the bathing suits and flip-flops, if you haven't already, because the hot hot summer days are upon us. Winter this year was alright. We had a few days that were ridiculously cold, but the rest of it wasn't really much of anything. I'm totally speaking for myself here. You see, I LOVE the cold, and every year I pray for snow ( silly I know) but always get nothing. So, now that spring is here, and my dreams of waking up to snow outside are gone, I prepare for the days ahead. Spring cleaning is finally done. Cob webs down, baseboards scrubbed, underneath beds and dressers have been cleaned, and all of our fluffy sweaters have been packed away. This coming week, we'll be gathering all of our summer supplies in preparation for the coming weeks. As far as attire is concerned, everyone except me is prepared, as usual. The only swimsuit I have is a yellow bikini. I absolutely love it, but have been thinking that this year, I'll go modest. Now relax, I'm not talking about something all the way to my neck, and down to my knees.I have been doing a lot of thinking, and an itsy-bitsy-bikini isn't something I would EVER want to see my daughter running around in, so as her mommy, I need to be the example - I'll save the bikini for a vacation with Papi ; ) So, this weekend the hubs and I are going... BATHING SUIT SHOPPING!!! Yeah, just for the record, he's not as excited as I am.

The Belly Series

2009-03-19T12:56:00.001-07:00

So, tell me this is not freaking adorable! Photographer Ryan Marshall takes weekly pictures of his beautiful wife's growing belly. But that's not all.On the side of each picture, he writes notes to their unborn child. It's just the sweetest thing. See more at - pacingthepanicroom.blogspot.com

Update!

2009-03-16T12:03:00.000-07:00

This weekend Joey and I started preparing ourselves for our three day potty training marathon with the Bean. We are using the methods from 3daypottytraining.com, and so far... they really work! They guarantee that in three days, your child will be completely potty trained. We loaded up on plenty of Nemo, Wall.E & Cars underwear, four new bed sheets, and even got a little pack of M&M's. He gets two every time he uses the potty. Today was the first day, and although I'm aching to tell you all how it's going. I can't. Not for any reason except that the Bean is now down for his nap with his underwear on, and at any moment he could scream. Either because he just went pee all over, or because he wants me to take him to the potty. So, I need to be ready.
But not to worry, my lovelies, I have been taking plenty of pictures, and writing every little detail in my journal. Once Wednesday night comes, I should be ready to sit and tell you all about it. Until then, wish the Bean... and me, many blessings!

He's a happy Bean!

2009-03-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

So yesterday morning, on my way out the door with a basket full of dirty whites, I passed by Emilio's room and glanced in only to see, that mommy had never changed the poor boy out of his PJ'S. After breaskfast, I must have been so focused on the tasks at hand ( laundry ) that I totally forgot to change his clothes. So I just washed him up, brushed his teeth, and sent him on his way. Why this was disturbing me, I'm really not sure. All I know is for some reason I thought he might have been uncomfortable. So, I set my basket by the front door, and went in his room to change his clothes. When I walked in, him and Caleb were sitting reading through... I mean looking through, his giant childrens spanish word book. "Emilio, do you want to help mommy get your clothes so you can get dressed?" I find it goes a lot smoother if I ask him to help me. That way, I'm not chasing him around the house trying to peel clothing off of him every time he runs past me. He didn't say a word, he just jumped up from the book, and ran to his little dresser to assist me. I let him pick out his own outfit. He opened his bottom drawer and pulled out some gym shorts, after closing it back, he moved to the middle drawer for his t-shirt, and came across a shirt that had a soccer ball, basketball, football, and baseball, on it. He looked up at me, handed me the shirt and started clapping. "Mommy balls!" He screamed with excitement. " Yes honey, let's put it on." After I put it on, he started dancing around the room touching his shirt. He even went up to Caleb, and shoved his belly in his face to show him the balls. Soon Caleb was up dancing as well. I was on the floor cheering and clapping. After a few minutes Emilio came to me and gave me a hug and said, " Mommy, I happy! " I couldn't believe it, I had never heard him verbalize his feelings before.

Hi there!

2009-03-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

It's me! Not here to blog about anything crazy and exciting. I actually got on to just check out the other cool blogs that I visit daily. Now, I don't know if any of you have had the opportunity to check in on any of them, but let me just recommend a few.

Here are some I visit daily:

- Color Me Katie ~ When I visit, I am truly inspired to live outside of the box of everyday life.

- Design Mom ~ She finds all the coolest, and not to mention cutest things all over the web. And how could I forget her giveaways... they are the best!

- Tollipop ~ If your an avid reader like myself, then you'll enjoy sitting back and relaxing in your favorite chair, or maybe even your bed, and reading her stories. They are so captivating... she really is so very talented.

- LOOKBOOK ~ All fashion, all the time. I love fashion, and I really enjoy looking at the creativity of some of these young people from all over the world. This is where I find my inspiration. Most of the looks are very vintage, and that's just my style.

So, that's what I've been up to today!

An afternoon at the park

2009-03-06T11:48:00.000-08:00

Enjoying some lunch before play time.

It was just a tad nippy out that day.

Emilio, not wanting to leave his swing.

Amiyah having class.

Amiyah, Mari, and some new friends!

Emilio and Caleb, enjoying themselves.

Cute Caleb.

It was a beautiful day in the neighborhood. We couldn't resist the urge to take the kids out to the park on what was one of the coldest days this year. Emilio hated the fact that he had to put on so many layers, he screamed as though being tortured the entire time. Caleb on the other hand, he doesn't care, he just stood there and smiled. I picked up Amiyah from school and drove down the street to the park where we were to meet our friends. A couple seconds after pulling into a parking space, Lorraine pulled up next to me. Amiyah started to yell, " Shani, Mari!" as though they could hear her behind the window. She jumped out of the car, and ran to them. I believe Mari came out first. Amiyah and Mari ran to each other, it was just like a scene in a movie except they almost knocked each other to the ground because of the impact.
We also met up with little Timmy, and Mrs. Alice, and a couple of her friends and their kids. The afternoon was filled with lots of laughter. But of course, no time spent in the park would have been complete without... the occasional meltdown.

Spirit Week!

2009-03-05T18:47:00.000-08:00

So, it's Spirit Week at Faith Christian School. Tomorrow is the last day, and quite frankly, both Amiyah and I are sad to see it go. It's the one week during the school year, the students get to wear whatever they want. Anything goes this week... well except for the kindergarteners. They had only three days they could dress "crazy" - Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Being that Amiyah had never heard of such a silly day, on Monday she flat out refused to wear anything except her uniform, with socks that match her polo ( she does this everyday) , and loafers. I tried explaining to her how much fun it was going to be... but she shrugged her shoulders, and walked off. I guess I do love the fact that at such a tender age, my little Poopy, isn't a follower. Monday afternoon I got out of the car and walked to the entrance of the school to speak with Mrs. Turner. She explained to me that the kindergarteners had themes as to how they were going to dress for those three days, and if Amiyah changed her mind, Wednesday was going to be sports day, and Friday was going to be patriotic. On Tuesday, Joey and I both spoke with Amiyah, yet again, about dressing up for sports day on Wednesday. After sharing with her all the silly ideas I had, she reluctantly agreed. Wednesday morning, I woke bright and early - a new thing for me, and started prepping. Since the theme was sports, we decided to go with High School Musical. She put on her navy blue uniform skirt, with her navy blue, red and white HSM cheerleading top, and I put out her HSM socks and white sneakers, thinking she would just adore the ensemble mommy had set out for her. Amiyah, however, walked right past the socks and shoes, went straight to her sock drawer and pulled out one pink Hello Kitty ankle sock, and one red Hello Kitty knee sock. She then went to her closet and pulled down her multi-colored ( bright pink, yellow, green and orange) Nike dunks, and proceeded to put them on.
So, I know that it's "Spirit Week" and all, but this mismatching, was just a little much for me. But, whatever. I mean, I'm shocked she got into it at all. Once she was dressed, socks were on, shoes tied, she came to the table for breakfast. She sat in front of her bowl of Rice Krispies, and asked, " Mommy, can you paint my nails orange? " I took a deap breath, and without looking at Joey ( his look would only say - " Babe, don't say anything! " ) I got up and retrieved all the necessary supplies to paint her nails. One coat was enough, we had to go and they needed to dry quickly. Amiyah absolutely loved her nails, she was so shocked at how good the color looked - she usually choosed mery muted colors like nude, or shear pinks... I think she surprised herself with her choice.
If you noticed... I didn't mention her hair. You see, the one thing she absolutely refuses to do anything crazy with... is her hair. I know I know, this coming from the girl who gave herself a mullet last year? What can I say... she's growing up. So with her bob, parted off to one side, with a white flower clip in it, that's already slipping out, she took a quick glance in the mirror... and off she went. Snatched up her backpack, lunch box, and out the door, filled with excitement.
In the afternoon when I showed up to pick her up, it was funny, there were kids on the basketball courts with bathrobes on, pajama pants with gym shorts over them, mismatched shoes... I was cracking up!
So, tomorrow is Friday, and she has to dress patriotic. Amiyah has already told me what she wants to wear, guess what it is... HER UNIFORM! But get this, she said she wants to wear her navy blues skirt, white polo, and red cardigan so that she's wearing red, white and blue. Hey, she lived outside her little structured world for one day, I think that's a big enough step for now.

It's been crazy around here!

2009-03-03T15:44:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness, where do I start?
Well I don't have much time with you all, I just finished sticking an entire sheet of stickers on Emilio's feet, just so I can sit here. I will be interrupted quite a few times to re-apply the stickers that have decided to fall off. So let's do this quickly!
A lot has happened in the past coupe of weeks. I started a new job from home, working part-time on odesk.com - seriously... check it out, it's the best thing that has happened to me in a long time. Not only do I enjoy getting a paycheck for working from home, but I am really enjoying being able to talk to someone over the age of six. Hold on, I have to re-apply Emilio's tiger sticker...

I'm back! Now where was I? Oh yeah, odesk. I only work about four hours a day, two in the morning, and two when they go down for naps. Aside from work, we also celebrated Emilio's 2nd birthday a couple of weekends ago ( pictures up soon) and that was an absolute blast. I kept it VERY simple this year. We bbq'd at a park, and the kids played on the playground. The one thing we did do was a pinata. It was a cute dinosaur. Okay, no more about the party... that post will be up soon.
Last Friday, my niece Brianna, AKA - "Hurricane," came to spend the weekend with us. Just a few hours after her arrival ( mind you I still had Caleb plus my kids) we had to get everyone ready for cousin Mikey's birthday party at Chick-Fil-A. Phew! Joe and I were exhausted after just getting them all ready to go. Caleb left at six, and then the rest of us left the house for the party. These are the moments my husband tells me he's so happy that I'm so obsessed with my lists and schedules. Everything has to be in order, we have to do everything on schedule, from getting the kids dressed, to filling sippy cups, and packing the diaper bag with the neccesities, so that when the clock hits a certain time, we can walk out the door... and not look back. I seriously can't function without them.
Well guess what? Even after all that perfect planing... WE WENT TO THE WRONG CHICK-FIL-A!! I totally forgot they had just opened a new one around the corner from my house, and that was where the party was going to be. We drove 10-15 minutes out of our way, got all the way there, and then I said " Oh no honey, it's at the one on Commercial!" But being the man that my Obe is, he saw kids coming out of the chick-fil-a we went to with balloons and he said "Well let's just crash their party!"
He was just a hungry, grumpy Obe, that's all. Thinking with his belly again.

We turned back around and heading for the right one. Once there, we went in, and saw the party people all shoved to one side of the restaurant, next to the playgorund. It was hot, crowded, loud, and just plain stressful. The kids had a blast though, well except for Emilio and Brianna, who were afraid of the man in the cow suit. They screamed hysterically.

We had a great rest of our weekend, just keeping kids busy. We took them to the park, to the church to see a Christian Illusionist, and then to service the next day. We had a full weekend. It kinda made me thankful for those weekends when you just don't know what to do, so you end up sitting by the pool, or just hanging out at home watching movies.

Anyway, just wanted to brief everyone on what has been happening around these parts. For obvious reasons, I can no longer blog everyday, but it should be every other day at least. Thank you my sweets for tuning in... be back soon!

Race For Faith

2009-02-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

About four ladies from our church, plus myself, headed up to West Palm Beach once again, for another race. This weekend it was - The Race For Faith.

We were in the middle of the beautiful Okeeheelee Park, on a trail that wound around such beautiful lakes. I was really excited to be there, my family and I used to visit this park quite often when I was growing up. Cooking out, fishing... it brought back a lot of memories.

I didn't run this race, I walked. My friend Lorraine has been having major back problems, and although she's a lot better, she was still having a hard time... so the wheelchair was her partner once again. She walked most of it, and I think only had to sit down once, but got back up, because she wanted to walk over the finish line. Anyhow, I wasn't going to run off and leave my girl.
We finished dead last... Yay us! It took us over an hour, but hey... we finished.
We had lots of fun!

M.A.M.A.

2009-02-19T11:29:00.000-08:00

This is Angela Williams, the founder of - Mothers Against Murderers Association.
She founded MAMA in memory of her nephew, Torrey Donnell Manuel, who lost his life due to a senseless act of violence. In addition to that, she has also lost five nephews and two nieces to gun violence in Palm Beach County, Florida. She has made it her mission to help the families of these victims, not only overcome their grief, but be an active part in helping to educate the younger generation, equipping them, to be able to turn away from street violence. "We teach you how to come out from being the victim, we help you learn how to survive, and then teach you to be an advocate."

I had the privilege of speaking to Angela this afternoon on the telephone.She was such a sweet woman, very understanding. I told her of my families interest in volunteering, and she was excited to hear that. Since the murder of my younger brother back in May, my family and I have been looking for ways to reach these young people that think there is just no hope for them. Many of them grew up on the streets, drugs, sex, and violence... it's all they've ever known. So how do we get this message across, this message of hope... of Christ? Angela has had many opportunities to go into schools, churches, and even jails, to share with these young people.
We look forward to serving with this organization, with, Angela.

Please feel free to visit her website: www.mothersagainstmurderersassn.org
and make a small donation to help put an end to the senseless violence.

STOP THE VIOLENCE!

In Memory Of
Randall Dean Copeland
8/30/87 - 5/30/08

Today he's 2!

2009-02-18T12:01:00.000-08:00

Our baby boy is now a 2 year old. I can't believe it.
He's climbing all the furniture, including dressers, sinks, and nightstands, and just last week I caught him swinging from one of the rails in his closet, and screaming "weeee!"
He's a good boy, he really is. He says "Tank you" when given something, but we're still working on replacing the ear-piercing shrieks, with a nice quiet, please.
He loves sports, and as of now, Joe and I think it's between basketball, football, or soccer. Or heck, maybe he can do all three. Basketball is definitely his favorite. Joey puts the goal up really high, gives the Bean the ball, and he actually shoots it. Of course he does the usual, pulling it back behind his head, like he's going to launch it, first, but when he finally let's it go... watch out!
Football is second. Every once in a while, he'll bring Joey the football and yell, "Hike, hike!"
During actual football season, the Bean enjoys relaxing afternoons with his Papi watching it on the television. He'll usually go and get the ball before sitting down, it's really cute. If there is any one thing that Joey and I have really noticed about the Bean, and his personality... it's that he's a total jokester. He doesn't like silence. He will actually come up to us, and start laughing hysterically, at absolutely nothing, but he does it just to make us laugh. Other times he'll stand in front of us if we're reading or talking, and just throw himself all over the floor going " woah, woah" and then he'll start laughing and look at us to make sure we saw him. The Bean loves to pray. It doesn't matter if it's before mealtime, or during devotions, he always holds my hand, closes his eyes... and waits. He waits for when Papi says, " In Jesus name we pray..." and then Beany bursts out and says, " Amem!" Then he laughs, of course. Ah, what a funny little guy I have.

Conversations with Amiyah

2009-02-17T12:48:00.000-08:00

A - " Mommy, when do we get to go to heaven?"

M - " Well, just like Uncle Randall, we get to go when Jesus is ready for us."

A - " But mommy, does Jesus have one hundred beds in His house for everybody?"

M - (Laughing) " No baby, Jesus is preparing a home especially for us, for when we get there."

AUGUST - 2008
On our way to bring flowers to Randall's grave for his birthday.

A - (Holding a bunch of flowers) " Wow mommy, these are pretty, are these for Uncle Randall?

M - (With tears running down my face) " Yes baby, they are for my baby brother."

A - (A little puzzled as to how Randall would be receiving them) " But mommy, how will you send them to him? Will you send them to heaven with your tithe?"

M - ( Laughing and crying) " No baby, we are just going to set them next to his picture at the cemetery. "

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-13T13:47:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day, my sweets! I pray your weekend is full of hugs and kisses to and from, all the ones you love.

What do you think?

2009-02-13T11:53:00.001-08:00

So this afternoon, on my way to pick up Amiyah from school, the boys and I stopped off at Blockbuster to drop off Wall-E, and pick up a new movie for family night tonight. Being a stay at home mom, i don't really care all that much about what I look like when I go out... even if What NOT To Wear, is, one of my favorite shows. I wasn't all that concerned about Stacy and Clinton jumping from behind any of the movie racks, but maybe I should have been...hmmm. After finding our movie for the night - Bambi, we made our way to the register. Once there, I put the movie, and Emilio (so he couldn't run off) on the counter, and the cashier says to me, with excitement in his voice, " Wow, from back there I thought you were Rosario Dawson. I saw you when you first came in, and I almost freaked out because I thought you were her!" I said thank you to him, as he continued to go on about how much I resembled her. After paying for everything, gathering kids, picking up shoes that were kicked off, and making my way to the car, I remembered just last night laying on the couch watching the NAACP Image Awards, and watching her win the award for best actress in Seven Pounds, and just loving how naturally beautiful she was. I think we could pass as sister's, what do you think?

February 12, 1809

2009-02-12T13:09:00.000-08:00

Today is Abraham Lincoln's 200th Birthday! After picking up Amiyah from school, we reread a story about him from one of her books that we read last night, looked up just about every image of him we could find over the net, and then made, or attempted to make, his cabin with our lincoln logs while singing happy birthday. We had a blast!

Love me some lumberjack!

2009-02-12T10:07:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while, I'll go into our local thrift store to see if I can find items to recreate certain outfits I like from -lookbook.nu. The look above is from this site, and is one my absolute favorites. I don't know about the tights in South Florida, but the ankle boots, cut-off shorts, lumberjack top and belt... I can handle. Next Thursday is 50% off all clothes and shoes at The Salvation Army... wish me luck!

Wishful Thinking

2009-02-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

As I opened the front door this morning, laundry basket in tow, the cool morning air pinched my cheeks. I was excited to start a new day. As I made my way down the hall, I reached down to feel my back pocket, making sure my quarters for the washer were there. As I approached the end of the hall, I greeted the maintenance man, who was hard at work on the elevator... once again. I promise you, that thing is being worked on at least once a month. It's a wonder none of the elderly people in my building have ever got stuck in the thing. I walked the rest of the way to the laundry room, dropping a few socks as I went. As I looked to the opening at the end of the hall that leads to the golf course... I thought to myself, " Do I really have to start my day with laundry?" As I turned to enter the laundry room, my question was quickly answered as I got a whiff of, the very reason I'm doing it in the first place. Emilio had a bit of a rough night. I believe he caught the stomach virus that has been going around. He started throwing up yesterday afternoon, and it went straight into today. So, last night, both Joe and I were awakened to the sound of Emilio's screams. We rushed to his room to find him sitting up, covered in vomit... poor thing. As I got my baby ready for a bath, my dear husband rinsed scrubbed and rung out, Emilio's sheets, clothes, and stuffed animals, and then hung them to dry until morning.
Now, having gone back and forth, quite a few times to the laundry room, and having the breeze and bright sunlight greet me each time, made me want to drop my basket, and spend the day bathing in the warmth of the sun. I dream of days filled with sun dresses, and barefeet, lemonade, a good book, and soft jazz.

SweetHearts

2009-02-10T11:07:00.001-08:00

It's that time of year again! I don't know about you, but besides Whitman's chocolates, that always come beautifully wrapped, sometimes with some kind of furry animal attached, the one thing that always makes me weak in the knees, is a little box of... SweetHearts. I get so excited to sit down, sprinkle them all over the table, and read each and every one. They make me laugh. I remember as a kid, picking individual hearts, that matched each and every one of my friend's personalities, or the way I felt about them. I would make their valentine's by hand, and then seal the envelope, and tape the sweetheart I picked out just for them to the back.

I purchased my first box of sweethearts this past week, and I am so excited to sit down and look through them. Amiyah will be joining me this year. We've decided to take some silly pictures with them as well.

Race For The Cure

2009-02-09T12:03:00.001-08:00

Here we go!

Snuggle up ladies... it's a cold one! They were freezing... Aren't they from New York?

Beautiful Flagler Drive.

Warriors in pink baby!

Christine... being silly.

My Raine... she was in so much pain. What a good sport!

The group. Hey look... It's a bird, it's a plane, no... IT'S SUPER NANCY!

We did it!

Trip To Jacksonville

2009-02-09T11:01:00.001-08:00

We were definitely in Gator town.

It says, Daytona Beach.

We're almost there!

Crossing a really creepy bridge. Did I ever tell you... I HATE BRIDGES!

Something I don't see everyday.

I thought it was interesting that we drove only four hours north, and all the trees are different colors, and the leaves were falling off.

Jaimee and Aaron's house. So cute and cozy. I miss it!

Friends For Life! Carly, me, Katie, and Jamiee.

Sweet baby Charlie... he's too cute! This is our friend Katie's baby.

More wii!!! Baby Charlie was having more fun talking on the phone. Or was that one of the wands?

My mom's friend Patti, (Jaimees mom) playing wii.

Best friends for life. We've known each other since the age of ten.

My friend Jaimee, with Emily, and Andrew (in the belly) hehe!

Steven, and his wife. Oh, and silly Patti in the background!

I love their hair in this pic... can you tell they just woke up?

Carly was loving the Jacksonville weather. Almost no humidity!
She was so happy to be having a good hair day.

The girls got up bright and early for
some morning tea.

Back in January, the weekend of the 10th to be exact, Carly, myself, and Amiyah, packed up and took a little road trip. I had received an invitation in the mail about a month earlier for my friend Jaimee's baby shower... and I was determined to go. Jaimee and I have been friends since childhood. We did the usual things teenage girls do. Have sleepovers, stay up late dancing, to DC Talk ( back when they were a rap group) , put on press on nails, etc.
We used to have a blast. Jaimee has a younger sister, Katie, who was really good friends with Carly growing up, and a brother, Steven, who hung out with my brothers. The four of us did everything together. I remember going to the Rapids, back when it was dirt cheap, for rap concerts. The most memorable one was when 1 Way, was performing there. I remember it because, we were about the only ones who showed up to hear them... I felt bad for them.
Anyway, the last time I saw Jaimee was about 4 years ago, when she and her husband came down here to visit. So I was so excited to see her once again. It was just like old times, we always seem to be able to pick up, right where we left off. We did our usual hugging, screaming, hugging, yelling... it brought me back. We'll be going back very soon, to visit baby Andrew when he comes.

I'll be back...

2009-02-06T20:33:00.000-08:00

Quite possibly tomorrow. Today was a really hectic day. I actually missed blogging today, It has turned into my alone time. So, no time to myself today! That's alright though, I'll be back tomorrow, with lots to talk about! Tune in!

Chai latte anyone?

2009-02-05T06:03:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it... IT'S 37 DEGREES OUTSIDE! I am so cold, I can feel it in my bones. I had to run out to the car this morning fifteen minutes before taking Amiyah to school to turn the heat on in the car, and also push the button, for the first time this season, to heat my leather seat. Leather, and cold... they don't mix very well. ooooh it was so warm and cozy. I know I have said before, that I love the cold weather, and I really do, but not when I'm unprepared. I mean, for today I would have needed ski jackets, gloves, and hats, just to make it from the front door to the car... I was so not ready for this. My poor kids, I kept throwing layer after layer of sweaters and jackets over them. I guess this is where a nice comfy set of long johns would have come in. That's okay though, I just kept Emilio's Batman pajamas on underneath all his layers... he was set. I'm home now with Caleb and Emilio. After a nice warm breakfast, I set the two of them up in Emilio's room watching, you guessed it... The Polar Express! I set just about every comforter and pillow I could find for them on the floor, along with some favorite furry friends, they look adorable, all snuggled up, no care in the world. I, however, am here at my computer wishing I was sitting in a nice cozy corner in Barnes and Nobles enjoying a grande Chai latte, and a slice of warm crumb cake. It's only warm because I make them nook it for me for about a minute, it tastes so much better that way. That's okay though, my hot coffee, and raspberry pastry will do just fine... for now. I think I need to have chai night with my ladies this weekend. I wish The One Way Cafe was open Sunday night's, their Chai... IS THE BEST! So creamy and delicious. My Jojo is a genius when it comes to making my chai... I heart her : )

Crayon in the nose

2009-02-04T10:19:00.000-08:00

After breakfast this morning, Emilio and I started through our usual routine, brush teeth, wash hands and face, and change clothes. I gathered all the neccesary items for changing him, remembering not leave anything behind. Let me tell you, if I forget just one thing, he takes full advantage of the moment I have to stop what I'm doing to collect the missing item, to run off. I told him to lay down on the floor, and I proceeded to take off his pajamas. When I got to his shirt, I was just about to pull it over his head when I noticed something HUGE inside of his right nostril. I shrieked, " Oh my gosh!" I noticed that freaked him out a bit, so as to not startle him, I ran and grabbed a fruit strip for him to eat while I examined this wierd object up my sons nose. At this point I couldn't make out that it was a crayon, but it was big enough that I knew I could get it out with my tweezers, don't try this at home kids. I ran for my tweezers, raced back, and the Bean was sitting up shouting, " more peeeese!" The kid wanted another fruit strip, hey whatever would keep him still. I put him back down on the floor, straddled his little body, and held his little head tightly. I counted to three, and went for it. Next thing I knew, I had pulled out the tip of a pink crayon that was probably a half an inch long. How my child got the crayon in there exactly... I 'll never know.

She's gone!

2009-02-03T17:14:00.001-08:00

I promised myself this season I would not watch the Bachelor. I just think it's hysterical how a group of women can pack up and leave their lives in the hopes of falling in love with some random guy they have never even met, in just a few short weeks. Well, as you can see, that didn't last long. My friend Lorraine asked me a few weeks back if I was watching it, to which I replied... "no." She told me, with much excitement , that I had to watch, " It's different this time, the guy is a single father. " After watching the very first episode... I was hooked. I don't watch it on Monday nights though, There is just way to much to do once the kids are in bed. I watch it the following Tuesday on ABC. com. So far Jason, the bachelor, seems to be this sweet, down to earth single dad, from Seattle. This week, he let go of Stephanie, a single mom who lost her husband almost four years ago. This comes as a shock to most, but I knew she was a gonner. There is no chemistry, no spark. Yes, they are both single parents, but honestly, that's about all they had in common. I was sad to see her go though, especially since I thought Naomi should have been the one to leave, she's a bit immature as far as I'm concerned. but let's just wait till next week.

Turning Two

2009-02-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

Emilio will be turning two on the 18th of this month. Joey and I both cannot believe the changes he's made in just a single year. He's a total boy, climbing his sister's dresser, jumping off of beds, hanging from our GLASS dining room table... Yikes! And so much more. His vocabulary has improved quite a bit. He will have a lengthy conversation with you about anything and everything. Even though we can only understand half of what he's saying, he enjoys the fact that we sit and listen to him. His latest conversations are all about his daddy. When Joey leaves the house, at first Emilio cries, and says, "Mommy, car with daddy... PEEEEEESE! Then after a moment on the couch with him reassuring him that daddy will soon return, he turns to me and starts babbling about just how wonderful his daddy is. I know this because every other word is daddy. When daddy is home, all he wants to do is hug and kiss him, and tell him, " I da youuuuuu!" He has no clue his birthday is fast approaching. Amiyah has taken out the album from his last birthday a few times to show him the birthday cake, balloons... his favorite, and all the cool decorations. He already knows he's one, he'll tell you, and even hold up one finger. We have been trying to help him coordinate his little fingers to do two. If you ask him how old he is he'll say, "two" while holding up one finger... it's funny.
Oh my baby Bean, he's a big boy now. Exciting days are ahead. After his birthday, we start... POTTY TRAINING!

New camera... for Amiyah!

2009-02-02T13:38:00.000-08:00

She just always has to get that close-up of her face.

Candy necklaces for her classmates.

Taken by Amiyah.

For Christmas Joey's parents got Amiyah a camera. After looking over the package, I came to realize... it wasn't compatible with our mac.
Today, while Joey stayed home, I seized the opportunity, and took the camera to the store to exchange it. I also got a little free time, which was nice. Yes, I know, it's February. When your lugging three kids around all day, with diaper bags, and toys, even the smallest of trips tend to take forever. I decided to save myself the hassle, and wait until I could go alone. I exchanged her other camera for a different one, it was $20.00 more, and I also had to get her a memory card.
The pictures above Amiyah and I took today while she was making her candy necklaces for her classmates. The last picture of me, that looks kinda crazy, was taken with the flash on. Ah well, not my camera of choice, but now she can do whatever she wants with it and I don't have to worry about her touching mine... that is, when I get a new one. I uploaded all of the pictures she took today in to her own folder in iphoto. i can't wait to teach her about blogging. She loves watching me do it.

It's cloudy outside!!

2009-01-30T10:52:00.000-08:00

I know, it's a little strange that it being cloudy out would make me happy, but, I have to say... I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! I love the feeling I get. The feeling of, ah well, it's gross out, and I don't feel like doing anything exciting today. I love just laying around doing... well, nothing!
Since Black History Month is around the corner, Amiyah and I decided today, to catch up on some reading. We've started reading the biography of Rosa Parks.
I love the reactions on her cute little face when I talk to her about what a colored fountain was, and why it was that Rosa Parks was not allowed to sit anywhere her heart desired, on that bus.
The book, also includes many photos of Rosa, as a child, and all the way up to adulthood.
She especially enjoyed the picture of the actual bus Rosa Parks was on.
One day, when she's a little older, we'll have to take a family trip to Michigan to visit the Henry Ford Museum, in Dearborn.

What did you do on this cloudy day?

Now what do i do with myself?

2009-01-29T10:29:00.000-08:00

The kids went down for naps, two loads of laundry have been ironed and hung, lunch mess
all cleaned up, and now I'm sitting here with exactly two hours to myself, before I have to
start my second shift. I have so many things I would like to do in these two hours,
but don't know which one to choose. I was thinking, catch up on last nights episode of Lost,
that I thought came on at 10. By the time my hubby and I got home from church, put the kids to bed and sat down to watch it, it was 9:45. I was like, Yes! I have a whole fifteen minutes!
The Hunster and I got cozy on the couch, ( he could care less about Lost, he watches it because he loves me. ) Turned the channel to ABC, only to discover...
IT ACTUALLY STARTED AT NINE!!!
I was soooooo unbelievably upset, words can't describe it. So I can either watch last nights episode, read the book my mom got for me called, The Shack, or I could wash my hair. Seriously, I need to wash it, haha. You know how you only here stuff like that in old movies, where some lady can't go out with her friends or something because she's washing her hair? Well that's me! So if you ever call me to hang out, and I say I can't because I'm washing my hair... I'm being totally serious. I'm not trying to avoid you. So, let me go and think about how I will spend this little bit of time I have left. Toodles!

What Will It Take?

2009-01-28T11:08:00.001-08:00

What will it take to break my heart?
Inside, I'm so full of myself.
What will it take to break my will?
Maybe loss... A friend, or my health?
What will it take to turn me back?
I have wondered so far from him.
What will it take to give God all?
It's hard to see... the light's so dim.
What will it take to turn around?
I'm stuck inside a narrow rut.
What will it take to feel again?
My heart is steel, it won't be cut.
What will it take to spark a flame?
I once knew warmth within God's love.
What will it take to fear His name?
Fear... That's what my minds full of.
What will it take to die to self?
I'm holding on for all I'm worth.
What will it take to know real wealth?
I have lost the joy I found in rebirth.
What will it take to make Him Lord?
There is so much stuff that's in the way.
What will it take to cut sins cord?
I have lived a lie, it's time to pay.
What will it take to seek His face?
It's really hard, He sees clean through.
What will it take to honor grace?
O, God, I want to run to you!
What will it take to come home, Lord?
A broken heart, a humbled will?
What will it take to be restored?
'' Repent! '' God says. '' I love you still.''

* This is taken from an old journal of mine I found today while packing.
The restoration of Jesus Christ, is simply amazing! *

So true

2009-01-28T11:00:00.001-08:00

I saw this on another blog, and absolutely fell in love with it.

Party Decorations

2009-01-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Emilio is turning two! Our house is filled with birthday joy,
as we begin ironing out all the details for his party.
We decided, the Hunster and I, to have a small party this year.
Mostly family, and a few close friends.
As many of you know... I struggle with small parties.
I say every year, that I'm going to do one, but then get so
caught up in all the fun, that it soon begins to turn into the biggest event
of the year. Well, that won't be happening in 2009. The belt around our
budget, is just a little tight. So what do I do? I search the web for
great, inexpensive ideas. There are way to many inspiring ideas to post, but I thought
you would enjoy this one. The birthday banner above, I found on Etsy.com.
Instead of ordering one, I thought I would make one of my very own.
I'm going to do them in triangular shapes instead of rectangles though, and I'm going to use
fabric with the theme that we choose. It's either between sports, trains, or cars... all of Emilio's favorites. He'll be excited either way, but I know trains are his absolute favorite.

In Review

2009-01-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

Before heading over to the movie at the cafe, Joey and I stopped, dropped off the Bean by his Titi Carla's & Uncle Angel's, and scooped up the Wormy to take a long with us.
Our Church was having a pajama party for all children, 3 years and older.
Poopy was thrilled that she got to show off her new High School Musical pajamas,
and Wormy had on his cute monkey PJ's. Joey and I were excited about being able
to go on a date, and have free childcare included. You just can't beat that.
Once there, we saw our dear friends, German & Tessa, and Tony & Crystal. They are two of the sweetest couples we know, we heart them!

After pushing two tables together, and gathering all the necessary seating, we got as comfy as we could in our little plastic chairs. They are rather attractive chairs to look at, but not quite the best chairs to sit in for almost three hours.
The lights in the cafe were dim, candles on the tables lit, and us ladies snuggled next to our loves, as the movie began to start.

Personally, I FREAKING LOVE THIS MOVIE! My friend Tara, over at allhisblessings, was so true when she said, "The acting was terrible, but the movie was so like real life that you don't care." The acting was indeed terrible. In my opinion, the only one who really knew what they were doing was of course, Kirk Cameron. However, I do know that the other actors are not professionals, and haven't had the training that Kirk has. I'll give them that much. As far as the action goes, I thought it was pretty balanced. There were plenty of scenes in the firehouse, and even a couple of rescues. By the way, i thought Kirk did an exceptional job during the part where he went inside the house to rescue the little girl. I was really impressed. I almost found myself crushing again, like back when I was 12 when he was on Growing Pains. Hehe!

The dialogue itself, I thought was pretty good. Again, these are not trained actors.
Although the scenes between Caleb's wife and the Dr. drove me crazy because it was just so, not natural. The fights between Caleb and his wife were a bit bizarre. Not because fights like that don't really happen, but because I guess I was just taken back. I mean to actually see a fight like, a fight we've probably all had at some time in our marriage, smeared all over the screen. It made me a little uncomfortable.

There was also some humor, which Joey and I really enjoyed.
We also liked how Caleb's friend in the firehouse that was witnessing to him, he was just so real. He shared about how he had been down the road of divorce, and how God revealed to him, that we really don't have that choice.

In the end, caleb accepted the Lord, and won his wifes heart back by doing, The Love Dare challenge. He realized he couldn't love his wife the way he should without the help of God. This is when I started crying. I started crying because of the change that occured in Caleb's heart. No longer was he just going through the motions, but he really and truly realized all that he had done, and with the help of God, he was determined to make it right. I did also like the fact that in the end when his wife came to see him at the firehouse, she also, apologized, for the way she had treated him.

In my previous post I mentioned going to a meet and greet for a couples Bible study in our Church. We are actually going to be doing, The Love Dare Challenge. Last night, we all just met to be able to meet each other, and talk a little about what we expect to get out of the study, and to just share a little about ourselves, and marriages. These next couple of weeks all us couples have to get the book and workbook, so we can officially start on Feb. 15th. Pray for us, as this will be something new, yet exciting.

I'll Be Back!

2009-01-25T20:03:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I understand, I haven't blogged in two days. We had a pretty hectic weekend.
Last night, my husband and I along with two other couples, who are really good friends of ours, went out for a triple date, to see FIREPROOF, at our church. We got home rather late, and blogging... yeah, that was out of the question. I was ready for my warm comfy bed. This morning we had Church service/Church meeting. Very informative, but a little long for my liking. Then we had lunch with dear friends of ours in the cafe, and went home for naps. Well, all except Amiyah, she preferred to stay up to watch The Polar Express... again, and color. We woke up to my poor Bean crying, then rushed to get ourselves together, and out the door again, to a meet and greet for our couples Bible study. We got home from that, a little after nine, and put our sleepy babies to bed. My Hunster is fast asleep, but not me... big surprise. I had to come on here, I couldn't let two days slip by without a single post. I would talk about FIREPROOF, but I have so much to say. Tommorrow morning, over a nice cup of coffee, I'll gather all my thoughts, and have them ready for my afternoon post. Until then, Goodnite, and God bless!

That Freezer Thing

2009-01-23T10:49:00.000-08:00

So, while driving to pick up Amiyah from school today, i was praying that my poor car would make it home, we needed to get gas, but I refused to stop.
It was beautiful outside, not cold, not hot... just right. I opened the windows to let some fresh air blow throughout the car, partly because of the great weather we were having, and also to save some of the little bit of gas I had left. We had just pulled out of the school parking lot, when my dear daughter says, " Mommy, I'm really hot. Can we please roll up the windows and turn on that umm... freezer thing?"
Oh my child, she makes my heart melt when she says silly things like that.
Poor thing though, I forgot to take her sweater off before we got into the car and headed home. So she was stuck in the back, between two boys...hot. I had to turn the air on.
Oh... and yes, we made it home!

"A" Honor Roll

2009-01-22T10:53:00.000-08:00

Our Poopy made the honor roll...again!
There is an A, honor roll, and that's for the kids who make mostly A's and no C's. Then there is the B, honor roll, for the kids who make mostly B's, and no D's.
She has been working incredibly hard. Coming home from school
and memorizing her scripture verses, doing page after page of math,
which by the way, her teacher doesn't even give her to do. Poopy comes home everyday, eats her lunch, and sits on the couch with her math book. She can do about 4 pages in a sitting...front and back! I'm so proud of my girl. Three times a week she brings home reading books and a bookmark that Mrs. Turner has signed telling the kids where to stop reading. Poopy never wants to stop. After she has read the ENTIRE book to me (because I have to sign the bookmark saying she read it), she continues to read the book over and over, and over again. After reading she practices her handwriting by making lists of just about everything in our house. She'll make a list of the items on the bathroom sink, a list of the food in the refrigerator, and of course who could forget her to-do list. She makes one daily. She takes after her mom, I live by them! Oh, and by the way, she has to write EVERYTHING in cursive. She likes doing it though, she calls cursive writing, "Princess writing".

Not a good idea.

2009-01-21T10:20:00.000-08:00

While watching the Inauguration of Barack Obama yesterday... all day, I had Emilio and Caleb (the little boy I care for) sitting next to me on the couch.
They were so overjoyed, shrieking with excitement as they watched Obama's motorcade
slowly make it's way up Pennsylvania Avenue to the Capitol for the transfer of power.
"Mommy cars!" Is what Emilio yelled over and over again.
I sat in between them, talking to them about what their little eyes were seeing.
"Yes honey, those are cars. What color are they?" " Black!" Caleb screams.
" And do you know who's riding in the black cars? Our future President. Can you say President?" " Pesinent." Caleb says.
I turn to Emilio, and just stare at him for a while. Just thinking of what Obama's
mother might have felt when looking at her own son as a child.
Did she truly believe that he could be anything? Did she have the same hopes and
dreams we all do for our children? I truly believe that she did.
Just to see what Emilio's response would be, because he's rather chatty these days, I asked him, " Emilio, do you think
it would be a good idea for you to be the President? "
He looked at me, and scrunched up his nose. Giving me his, I'm too cute for words look, and then he said, " No mommy... no a goo idea."
I started laughing so hard. I love how lately he is really trying to piece his words together to make sentences.

President Barack Obama

2009-01-20T11:03:00.000-08:00

Our 44th President, Barack Obama.
I am not ashamed to admit that I didn't vote for him.
Even still, as a woman of African American descent,
I could not help but be overwhelmed with emotion while
watching the Inauguration.
I sat back in pride, as I watched a man, a man that even today
in different parts of the country, would be told
he would never be the President of The United States,
take the stand, and be sworn in. Tears fell from my eyes.
Everything else aside, today we made history.

Let us lift our new president before the throne of grace
daily, and let us pray for the salvation
of him, and his family.

Let every soul be subject to the governing
authorities. For there is no authority except
from God, and the authorities that exist
are appointed by God.

Romans 13:1

Goognight Mom

2009-01-20T10:23:00.000-08:00

I read this last night in the, 'Last Word' section of the November issue of Parenting.
Yeah, you can see how often I actually get to sit down to read. Anyway, my kids and I absolutely love the book, Goodnight Moon, and I just thought this was so cute... and yet true. Enjoy!

(With apologies to Margaret Wise Brown)

In the messy green family room
there was a telemarketer ringing the telephone
and a crying toddler because his brother, just popped
his red balloon. And a picture of-

The cow jumping over the moon.
(Which someone colored on with permanent marker)
And there was a missing teddy bear, and a girl
with gum in her hair.

And one to be scolded
and laundry to be folded
And a very hungry spouse
And something stinky in the house
( that no one else seemed to smell)

And a comb and a brush and a colicky
baby who just won't shush
and a frazzled mommy screaming HUSH!

Goodnight messy room
Goodnight scribbled-on moon
Goodnight cow getting out while she can
Goodnight telemarketers and the
popped balloon

Goodnight long-gone teddy bear
goodnight cereal bar smeared all
over the dining room chair

Goodnight spitup
and goodnight leaky sippy cup
Goodnight much-too-little house and
goodnight grumpy spouse
Goodnight comb and goodnight brush
And goodnight to a certain 4-year-old
who just needs to hush right now I mean it

Goodnight Elmo
Goodnight toys we'll pick up tomorrow,
or the next day
Hello chardonnay and TiVo-
"me" time finally.

FIREPROOF

2009-01-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

My husband and I both are very excited. Our cafe at church, The One Way Cafe, is an official licensed site for the #1 inspirational movie of the year, FIREPROOF!
We will be showing it Saturday, January 24th @ 7pm.

Neither one of us have seen it yet, but we know many who have and they say it's pretty good. After being warned by my husband not to, I went online anyway, and started reading some of the reviews. I have to say, after reading quite a few, the reviews seem mixed. Mostly just complaining about the acting, and the fact that most of the movie takes place in a firehouse but there wasn't really to much action taking place at all. Most people said, there was to much dialogue.
Then there were those who said the action was great, and they really liked the message.
Honestly, my hubby is not one for dialogue, and I myself could care less to see a movie with a bunch of firetrucks in it. From the previews I saw, it looked pretty balanced. I'm looking forward to it, and I know he is as well. We've been wanting to see this movie since it first hit the theaters, but just haven't had the time.
Well, I'll be back to post my own review.

Family Day

2009-01-17T18:25:00.000-08:00

So today we spent the day as a family. After getting home around 8:30, from walking 4 miles with my friend Lorraine, we all got ready and went BACK to the park i had just come from.
I had to take them there. Amiyah has been before, while on a field trip with her class, but the Bean, and my Obe had never been. It's a park in Margate that has a trail that's a 1/2 mile all the way around, basketball and tennis courts, and a really nice playground in the middle of the trail for the kids. The only thing i didn't like to much, was the sand. It's such a pain getting it all out of not just their shoes, but socks, and the toes. Yucky!
Anyway, the kids loved the park. We brought Emilio's huge Tonka trucks, for the sand, but he could have cared less to play with them, and a few balls.
Amiyah saw a few kids her age involved in a game, and I could tell she wanted to join in. I encouraged her to ask them to play, but she refused. So , I had an idea. I started my own game with Amiyah. We played hide and seek. Once the kids saw us running around playing, they decided to stop their game and ask to play with us.
It was fun! Oh and, no, I didn't go and sit down once the kids all started playing, shoot, I was having fun right along with them. We played hide and seek some more, and then a game of tag, which is actually another form of hide and seek, but whatever.
Joey took his football onto an open field, and about 3 little boys followed him. Oh wait, and Jessica went with them as well. She reminded me so much of myself at her age. She was probably about 11 or 12, but could have cared less that there were all boys out there. She played just like them, and even better. She even gave Joey a high five when they were finished.
Emilio just kinda kept to himself most of the time we were there, he really enjoys just doing his own thing.
After going down the slide for abut the fourth time, he noticed another little boy, following him. His name was Camden, and he was soooo super cute! Beany loved that he had a friend. They would wait for each other at the top of the slide, and then count to three, and go down together.
They did this, over and over again. Camden's mom and I were talking while watching the boys for so long, that we went from just introducing ourselves, to an in depth conversation about religion. It was funny, we both had a good laugh.

After the park, we went to grab a slice of pizza from a new joint just down the street from our house. Then we dropped Amiyah off at the grandparents house so she could play. She said she wasn't tired, but the rest of us wanted to go home and take a nap. We had a really good day.

Speed Racer

2009-01-16T10:12:00.000-08:00

Since Emilio was about 11ms. old he has been hitching rides with his sister in this jeep.
Amiyah has always been very careful with him. She would put his seat belt on for him, hold him close when they would go around a tight corner, and even hold the back of his head if she was going to push the gas, a little to hard. Emilio loved every minute.
Recently, whenever Amiyah would get inside her jeep to ride, the Bean would come running after her yelling and screaming. We would allow her to ride by herself, and then after so long, encourage her to ride her little brother around.
Lately, she hasn't wanted to ride her jeep at all, because she says, " I don't want to ride my jeep anymore, because i always have to ride the babies in it."
After we enjoyed a quick laugh with her, we thought of an idea. So we picked up the Bean, and placed him in the driver seat. Before we could finish putting his seat belt on, he had slammed his foot on the gas, and was off. Nearly running into Joey's car, barely missing the pedestrians (grandpa, grandma & mommy) on the sidewalk. It was great! He now has the blue pillow that you see in the picture behind him to push him a little closer to the pedal. Before he literally had to stand himself up. So the Bean enjoys his new found freedom. We just stick him in that jeep, turn the wheel in one direction, and he's good. Just no one tell him the jeep he's actually in, is a Barbie one. Lol!

A Copeland Christmas

2009-01-15T10:47:00.000-08:00

Just about the cutest picture EVER, of Brianna, AKA - The Hurricane!

It would not be a Copeland Christmas without a game of dominoes.

Cousins. Miranda & Emilio.

Uncle Cody with Emilio.

Cousins!

With my sister, Carly.

Joey and I.

Showing Uncle Rick her ATM.

Amiyah giving her cousin Brianna a squeeze.

Uncle Jordan with the kids.

My Grandparents, and my Parents.

Christmas this year was at my parents house. We had, our grandparents come from Alabama, my Uncle Rick, Aunt Zena, and two cousins home from college, and of course the rest of us crazy Copeland's and our families. Of course Randall wasn't there physically, but he was most definitely in our hearts... oh, and on the t-shirt my sis was wearing just for Christmas.
We all had a couple of moments when we just needed to go and hide somewhere to cry. You never really realize how much a part of you someone really is, until they are no longer there. Al in all, we had a really great time. The kids were running around screaming and yelling, the boys were watching sports, and would stop every once in a while to play a game of dominoes. And of course us ladies would chit chat. I have tons more pictures, of course, but these were some of my favorites.

Christmas

2009-01-15T10:38:00.000-08:00

Amiyah with her Hannah Montana guitar.

Teaching the Bean how to use the controls.

The Bean and his new truck!

These are just a few pictures from our Christmas morning at home.
The kids had such a great time opening presents, and Emilio actually knew to rip them open this year. He wasted no time!

Broken camera

2009-01-15T10:24:00.000-08:00

Right before Thanksgiving, while visiting with Joey's parents, Amiyah asked me if she could use my camera to take some pictures. So I said, " Sure honey, just be careful."
A few moments later she returned, camera in hand, and said to me, "Mommy, I broke your camera." Before looking at the camera I had pretty much let it go, thinking, ah well, she probably just forgot how to turn it on or something. Well, let's just say, that wasn't the case at all. As she lifted the camera to me, to place in my hand, I looked down and could not believe what I saw. The lens itself was busted, and bent sideways.
I was mortified! My brother-in-law had just replaced my other camera after losing it, with this one, and now... IT'S BROKEN!

This reason I am letting all of you know this, is because, I can no longer just take a few pictures, upload them into my computer and then onto my blog. Oh no. I am now using my huge 35mm Canon Rebel. I used to only use it for portraits. So I have to use up an entire roll before I can actually go get them put on cd, and then upload them onto my computer. That's why I will be posting so many pictures at once... I can't get around it.
Although, I have been doing some research on creating a black room by using a bathroom or closet, so that, that way, at least I'm not paying for the developing fees any more.

2009-01-14T10:22:00.000-08:00

So, nothing new really going on today. Nothing crazy and exciting. The house is now quiet, all kids are off to sleep. I'm sitting here at the computer eating a little bowl of Moose tracks, and uploading pictures onto my facebook page. It has taken me two days, but thankfully, I am nearly done. So all in all, today has been pretty quiet. I actually forced it to be that way. I have tons and tons of organizing to do, as we prepare to move. Not to mention laundry that needs to be ironed, and a basket full that needs to be put away. For some reason it just doesn't bother me that it's just sitting there. I am rather calm about the whole thing, and for those of you that know me well, your probably thinking that there is something terribly wrong with me for me to allow a basket of laundry to just sit. I assure you, I am just fine. Just enjoying my day is all. So until tomorrow, I bid you good day!

Blog daily

2009-01-13T10:01:00.001-08:00

So I have decided to start blogging daily. Since it is so difficult for me to keep up with , I figure if I make myself visit my blog everyday, I'll start getting used to it. And, being that it is one of my Revolutions, I have decided to not only share photos, and events, but to actually share some personal things with you all as well. In the hopes that the things I share will not only encourage, but challenge you. Love you all. Check back soon!

The Nutcracker

2009-01-13T08:32:00.000-08:00

Mother and Daughter.

Four generations.

Amiyah and I

Amiyah with her Great-Grandma.

Carly, Amiyah and Grandma, getting ready for the show.

Two days before Christmas, all us beautiful ladies got all dressed up and went out to see the Nutcracker ballet. It was such a wonderful experience. The dancing was beautiful, and the costumes, incredible. The music, smoke machines, and even the fake snow they had fall from the theater ceiling... oh, it was just magical. We had the time of our lives. This was Amiyah's second ballet, she went to see Cinderella a month before, but had yet to see the Nutcracker. This was the very first time we all went together. We were thrilled that my Grandmother from Alabama could be there with us. I love my Grandma. My grandparents have always lived out of state, and so it has made it rather difficult over the years to see them. So it was such a blessing to have her with us.

My List for 2009!

2009-01-06T14:48:00.000-08:00

1. Draw closer to the Lord.
2. Build an even STRONGER bond with my Hunster.
3. Start each month like the Lord has given me only 30 days to live.
4. Work on Stop The Violence.
5. Potty train my Bean.
6. Start running.
7. Get certified as a trainer.
8. Start a Moms fitness group.
9. Blog more.
10. Focus on my photography.

I have to say, so far I have been doing pretty good. I've started running again, thanks to the encouragement I have received from some of my bestees! I have been reading up on how to potty train this crazy bean of mine. I'm going to use the method from www.3daypottytraining.com
My friend Lorraine used it with her twin girls, and withing three days they were leaving the house... WITH PANTIES ON! AND, can you believe she potty trained both of them ... AT THE SAME TIME! If she can do it with twins, then it should be a snap with this little crazy-haired bean of mine. So far that's all I have really gotten to start on. I mean heck, it's only the 6th of January.

"2009 IS GOING TO BE FINE!"

2009-01-06T13:26:00.000-08:00

Well being that I did not make it on the 1st to blog... I'll start now. Better late than never!
My husband and I decided this year not to make a list of resolutions. Not because we can't keep them, but just because we wanted to make a different list this year. We wanted to make a list of Revolutions- Drastic and far-reaching changes, in the way we think and behave. We are truly excited to see all the Lord has in store for us this new year.

Christmas Questionaire

2008-12-24T10:59:00.000-08:00

1. Egg Nogg or Hot Chocolate? Egg Nogg with the sugar cookies Amiyah and I bake, and Hot chocolate with a mini candy cane hanging from the side of my mug. Oh... and don't forget the marshmallows.

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? We have shared with Amiyah years ago that Santa is just a character. She knows that Jesus provides Mommy and Papi with the money to be able to buy them presents.
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white? We always do white lights on the tree. As far as the outside goes... we put our Menorah in our kitchen window for everyone to enjoy.
4. Do you hang mistletoe? Every year. My Obe and I love meeting under it on Christmas Eve, when the little ones are fast asleep.
5. When do you put your decorations up? It used to be the day after Thanksgiving. As the years have gone on, they seem to go up earlier and earlier... we just love transforming the house into a Christmas wonderland.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? Sweet Potatoes. Oh wait... can't forget the COLLARD GREENS!!
7. Favorite holiday memory as a child? Well it really wasn't my favorite, but, when my sister and I and my four brothers would go for our stockings, and in them all the way at the bottom we'd find fruit. It was pretty funny. I mean hey, you gotta fill the toe somehow.
8.When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? My parents never had us believe in Santa.
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? We did when we were little.We decided we'd wait until the kids are a little older to start that tradition with them.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? White lights, silver and burgundy balls, burgundy bows, and snowflakes. Sorry people, I like a themed tree. Not to worry though, the kids have a tree of their very own that they (Amiyah) decorates. And of course it has tons of colored lights, and every ornament that was ever given to us, plus the new ones they receive from Papi and I every year on it.
11. Snow! Love it or dread it? I love it! That's of course because I don't live in it, so, no shoveling for me!
12. Can you ice skate? Yes. But it has been MANY years since the last time I did.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift? When I was a kid, it was a boom-box with detachable speakers... Ahhh-yeah! Last year, it was my Rachael Ray pans from my Obe, they are the best!
14. What is the most important thing about the Holidays for you? Celebrating Jesus!
15. What is your favorite Holiday dessert? Banana Pudding, and Ambrosia.
16. What is your favorite Holiday tradition? Taking the kids to see Christmas lights.
17. What tops your tree? A star... because my Jesus IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD!
18. Which do you prefer giving or receiving? Both. But I love buying and making things for other people, it brings me so much joy.
19. What is your favorite Christmas song? O Holy Night. Although Little Drummer Boy is right up there this year.
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum? I only really like them in my hot chocolate.
21. What do you want for Christmas? Peace for my family, a new Bible, a new pair of jeans, running shoes, a new lens for my camera, and a really good book.
22. Do you attend an annual Christmas party? We are all over the place during Christmas, we never have just one party to go to.
23. Do you dress up on Christmas or wear PJ's? We open presents in our pajamas, but when it's time to leave to visit all the family, we dress up.
24. Do you own a Santa hat? Nope.
25. Who do you normally spend Christmas with? My hubby and the kids in the morning. The rest of our families later in the day.

Phew! That was long. Your turn!

New Favorite Thing

2008-10-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

Both of my kids really enjoy taking a bath, and always have, even as little babies.
But recently my poor bean has protested every single time by shaking his head and saying, " nooooo."
Usually after I remove all of his clothing and his diaper, he makes a run for it.
I always let him go, knowing that he's going to hide somewhere in the hopes that mommy will somehow forget about the bean needing a bath, and just give Amiyah one all by herself.
My bean has been doing this because he HATES getting his hair washed. He hasn't quite caught on to the fact that if he only tilts his head back a bit, the water won't run into his eyes.
So... I was on the hunt. I was looking for something that would keep the water out of my poor babies eyes so that he's not gasping for air every time our big red cup full of water comes towards him. My best friend once gave me these foam visors that babies can wear, the only thing with that is he'll take it off the second I go to pour the water. So I found this cup. The yellow part is made of some type of soft rubber, and it gently rests on their forehead. The inside of the cup also has two compartments so that the water doesn't rush out all at once. This cup has saved bath time in the Zarazua house , and now when I say " bath time!" The bean runs straight to the tub.

2008-10-23T19:07:00.001-07:00

Baked Apples

2008-10-23T16:51:00.000-07:00

So I thought this year I would get an early start on the holiday desserts I have been dying to try. Tonight when the kids went to bed I made myself and my hunster baked apples. They were delicious! My plan was to bake them, pour some of the drippings over them and take a picture to post on my blog. But what can I say, after about 15 minutes in the oven the smell of apple, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon all mixed together was making our mouths water. As soon as they were done I plated them, drizzled some of the drippings over the tops, and my hunster and I devoured them... literally. Oh I also added raisins which gave it a nice texture.
So the next time I make them my Poopy will be my special helper and I think we'll add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side... yum-o!

A-Z All About Me

2008-09-22T17:40:00.000-07:00

Yeah so I totally don't have any clue why my a-z all about me post looks the way it does.
I apologize for that but no matter how many times I go in to edit, and change the size of the text it still comes out ginormous.
Argh!

A-Z All About Me

2008-09-22T13:58:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged once again! This time by my girl over at minikitklan.blogspot.com
Thanks Gabbs! If I tag you, you must do the same thing on your blog!

Attached or Single? Happily married to the man of my dreams! We're going on 5 and a half years.

Best Friend? I would have to say my mommy. We have become so close through these tough times.

Cake or Pie? I am definitely a chocolate smothered... not covered, but smothered cake girl! Although a nice slice of sweet potato pie with whip cream ALWAYS hits the spot!

Day of Choice? Friday... DATE NIGHT! My Hunster and I usually wait until the kids are in bed and then we order in from our favorite wing place and snuggle up on the couch.

Essential Item? My journal. I carry it with me everywhere I go, jotting down random thoughts or poems that come to mind.

Flavor of Ice Cream? I loooove Moose Tracks. But for some reason I always go back to Butter Pecan.

Gummy Bears or Worms? Neither! Not a big fan of things that take the rest of the day to get out of my teeth.

Hometown? The original 5-6-1 ya'lls

Indulgences? Getting my nails done. After wearing gloves all day just about everyday because I'm scrubbing toilets, washing dishes, or doing some other kind of grease fighting it's nice to pamper them every once in a while.

January or July? January, most definitely!

Kids? Two beautiful children, Poopy (5) Beany (19ms)

Last Movie I saw in a Theater? My mom and sister took me out for my birthday to see Mama Mia. It was so good. We were cracking up. I downloaded the soundtrack a few days later on itunes.

Middle name? Maria. Named after St. Mary

Number of Siblings? I have 4 brothers and 1 sister.

Oranges or Apples? I prefer apples.

Phobia or Fear? Lizards. I'm serious! I'm deathly afraid.

Quote? " I am not moved by what I see, I am not moved by what I feel. I am moved by what I believe." Smith Wigglesworth

Reason to Smile? My family. My wonderful husband, my hero, and my two beautiful children.

Season? Fall/Winter. I love to wrap up in my scarves, put on my furry boots and go out for a nice chai latte with my girls.

Tag five more: Yeah ummm... Gabbs you pretty much got everybody. None of my other friends blog... they just read mine.

Unknown Fact About Me? I am completely obsessed with anything having to do with money management. I get so excited every Friday to sit down and do our budget for the coming week.

Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animals? I could be a vegetarian... but my husband needs his meat.

Worst Habit? Drinking Coca~Cola. I have a weakness for the stuff.

Xrays or Ultrasounds? Both... they were kinda cool.

Your favorite Food? I would have to say Sushi.

Zodiac? Leo

Mmmmmmmuuhhh!

2008-09-18T16:35:00.000-07:00

Beany just loooves his papi. Everyday when Emilio hears my hunsters keys in the door he makes a mad dash for the door creaming "Daaaaaaddyyyyy."

In the first picture I left the Bean with the grandparents while taking Amiyah to a classmates party one Saturday, and my hunster was working that Sat as well.
When I came to pick up my bean I come in the house to find him laying on the floor napping in his papi's arms. Ok people this is a big deal... he doesn't even fall asleep with ME anymore! It was really sweet.

In the next pick my Hunster was on the computer and the bean came in for some papi time. He screamed to get up into his lap and once there all he wanted was his sweet papi kisses. All I could hear from the other room was mmmuuuhh... mmmuuuhh.

Art Lessons

2008-09-18T16:28:00.000-07:00

Since starting school Amiyah will come home and teach Emilio a little something she learned on that particular day. Today was cursive b. Of course Emilio just does his usual scribble scrabble. But Amiyah being the great teacher she is just goes on encouraging every scribble he makes.

It's spaghetti time!

2008-09-18T16:18:00.000-07:00

So I think I mentioned in a previous post about my beany and his picky eating.
Well it wasn't until recently when we placed a bowl of spaghetti (something he would never eat before because he doesn't like meat... or so we thought) in front of him with a spoon that we noticed he took right to it. Ate every last bite... meat and all!
So we have come to the conclusion that it was just a matter of independence. He wanted to be the one to feed himself. Of course with me right there making sure the spoon was right side up so that it actually made it in his mouth and not all over the floor.
Mealtime around the Zarazua house is a lot more peaceful these days.

Now, on to the BIG BOY CUP...

2008-09-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

This is an example of letters that Amiyah writes almost daily to Jesus.
She's so incredibly thoughtful, always thinking of the hurts and needs of others.

Here I am again!

2008-09-18T08:18:00.000-07:00

Ok ok... so I'm not the best blogger.
I think I could be though... if I just made time for it.
So I'm back in action. Now if I could only get these pics to upload...

Life without my camera

2008-05-07T10:37:00.000-07:00

So I lent my camera to my BIL (Brother-in-Law) and was told that he misplaced it. Now I'm not angry or even upset. I don't know exactly what I'm feeling. I have never really been without it. It's always in my diaper bag along with it's partner the gorillapod (a small flexible tripod for digital cameras), ready for anything.
Over the past week I have reached for it numerous times, only to remember it's no longer there. So I have been using my big canon rebel. I actually like it a lot better than my little canon, it takes better pictures. My only issue... it's not digital. So it's a PAIN IN THE NECK, having to continuously drop off and pick up film, get the prints put on a disk, and then upload them into my iphoto. NOW WHAT DO I DO WITH ALL THESE PRINTS!!!! I'm not into scrapbooking AT ALL, it takes to much time. So for now it's me and my Rebel, I'm kinda happy to be using it again though, I've missed it. I feel so professional.
So, it will be a while before i put any photos up. Until then...

He's Walking!

2008-05-03T13:30:00.000-07:00

We thought this day would never come. For about a month now he's been walking, but only while holding someones hand. Last week we noticed him let go of the couch quite a few times. With video camera ready, we waited and waited. Until... HE FINALLY DID IT! He let go of the couch, turned towards the middle of the living room, and walked all the way across the area rug to the wood floor. We all cheered and clapped. Of course he loved that part, he was smiling and clapping right along with us. Since then, every chance he gets he's up on his feet, ready to run across the house.
I'll post pictures later. Right now I'm trying to figure out how to upload the video onto my computer. Hmmm... I think I'm missing a cable.

She's 5!!

2008-04-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Our princess Amiyah is 5, we can't believe it. Joey and I were just thinking back the other day to when she was just walking, and how proud of herself she was.
One of my greatest memories was when she first learned to point. She was so excited that now instead of screaming for whatever it was she wanted at the moment, she could now point it out to us. And she did it with such pride all the time. You could see in her face she couldn't believe we could finally understand her.
Her Birthday theme this year was Alice in Wonderland. These are a few shots I took for her invitations. I ended up using the one of her sitting on a tree stump. Later I'll post pics from birth to now. But for now, this is all I had time for. Enjoy!

Story Time

2008-04-30T07:56:00.000-07:00

Before Beanies naps we play silly games, sing crazy songs, and read stories. On this day Amiyah wanted to read the book to him herself. She can read most of the words, but the rest she knows from memorization. It was cute to hear her read it to him, and as you can see in the picture he was enjoying it as well.

Rainy Day Dress Up

2008-04-30T07:54:00.000-07:00

Look at my big boy!

2008-04-29T11:57:00.001-07:00

I cannot believe it, he's feeding himself...sorta!
The Bean has been really upset lately when it would come time for meals, and I felt like such a bad mom because I just couldn't figure it out. I thought maybe he was being picky, or just wasn't hungry. But it wasn't any of those things at all. A couple of weeks ago when he started acting like this I said " ok fine Emilio, I'm not fighting you this time." And i set his bowl and fork on his tray. He then picked it up and began poking at it and then bringing his fork to his mouth (there was no food on it). Again he was frustrated. I helped him poke his pancakes, and then he brought them to his mouth all by himself. He's been doing so ever since.
These pictures are from breakfast, and later on during lunch. He had an easier time with the pancakes. The mac n' cheese kept falling off the spoon.

A day with friends!

2008-04-29T11:28:00.000-07:00

We got together with some friends and headed to the museum for a day of WILD and CRAZY fun... literally. No, I'm not talking about the animals and exhibits we saw. I'm talking about our children, yup our sweet loves of our lives. I actually think they didn't pretty good this time around though. They had their moments, but then again... so did we.
After walking around for what felt like hours, we ended the day with some ice cream outside next to the fountain. After the ice cream had finished we gathered our wet sticky-faced children, and headed to our cars.
"We have to do this again sometime" we all said as we were loading up our vehicles.
Well... until then ladies!

He's so handsome, just like his Papi!

2008-04-09T20:35:00.001-07:00

I had to post this one. This is my Bean all dressed up for Church. I just think he looks so handsome!

2008-04-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

So there have been a lot of new things going on in the home of the Hunsters. One of the most important to me is the development of Amiyah and Emilio's relationship.
They really love each other so much. Lately whenever Emilio sees his big sister sitting or playing on the floor, he quickly makes his way to her, stands up and throws his entire body on top of her for a big hug. His hug is usually followed by this sound, "mmmmaaaaahhh". For those of you who don't recognize that sound, it's the sound of him giving her a big wet one. Of course Amiyah absolutely loves every minute of it.
Now if you have ever been around a 13 month old, the one thing you will find out very quickly is, whatever you have belongs to them. I don't care if it's another toy, the seat your sitting in, or even a snack your about ready to sit down and enjoy, it belongs to them... or so they think.
While Joey and I continue to hide from the Bean, in an effort to enjoy our snacks in peace, Amiyah has actually become extremely smart about the way she handles it.
Realizing that whatever she's eating her brother is going to want as well, she came up with a plan.
I walked out of my bathroom the other day while cleaning it because the house was a little too quiet, I had to know what was going on. I came across this scene. Before I could say anything, Amiyah began to explain, "Mommy, I wanted a snack, but I knew Emilio was going to cry for it. I put his bib on, and got his baby spoon (it's actually a fork) so we could both have have some."

Easter

2008-04-09T20:06:00.000-07:00

My beautiful kids all dressed up for service.

2008-03-11T06:43:00.001-07:00

On this day I was so shocked to see these two together... I just had to take a picture.

Usually when Amiyah goes into her bedroom to play, she slams the door shut because she doesn't want Emilio in there messing with any of her girly things. On this particular morning, I happened to be walking by the room when I overheard her talking to Emilio. "Emilio, I always like to play by myself or with mommy, cause you always make a mess with my stuff. Today I thought I would play with you instead. You can touch my stuff Emilio, oh... but not my Hannah Montanna necklace, that was very expensive."
Isn't that cute? She's such a good big sister, Emilio absolutely adores her.

2008-03-07T14:44:00.000-08:00

The day after Emilio's party (yeah we're crazy) we had his dedication to the Lord.
It was great! We watched a slide show that I put together of pictures of the Bean, my Pastor fixed the music. Thanks Pastor G, we love you!
Our Pastor prayed over us, and the Bean, and we gave him back to Jesus.
We realize that it is our job to raise this little boy to be a mighty man of God, who will one day part from his parents and set on FIRE this world for the Lord! Such a big job Joey and I sometimes think, but the Lord, He is so great! He chose us to be the parents of these two children for a reason. We pray always for our friends and family, but especially the ones who have children. The things we do to them, with them, and teach them now will have a tremendous impact on the people they will one day become. Will they be strong courageous men and women who will not crumble under the pressures of their peers? Will they be the ones drawing their friends, and neighbors to the Lord? Joey and I pray so, but more important that is what the Lord Jesus Christ wants for His creation, for them to one day become His children, and then bring others to him.
God bless you all, be encouraged in your ministry, your family!
ONE GENERATION SHALL PRAISE THY WORKS TO ANOTHER,
AND SHALL DECLARE THY MIGHTY ACTS.
PSALM 145:4

Happy 1st Birthday Emilio!

2008-03-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

The Bean is a year old, I can't believe it! We celebrated in true Zarazua style, a big birthday bash... that he won't even remember having.
The theme was Curious George. Only because he's the cutest monkey that ever lived, and we think the bean looks just like him. We had it at Monkey See Monkey Do Art Studio for Kids (my best friends studio).
It was so much fun. They did circle time, singing, dancing, coloring, play-dough, and they even made a canvas of Curious George's face.
I think 1st birthday's are absolutely hysterical. The birthday child has no idea what's going on, or that any of this is even about them. All Emilio knew was that people kept screaming in his face "Happy Birthday", and trying to snatch him from his mothers arms. So he pretty much looked at everyone with his usual blank stare almost the whole time.
I say almost because I think I got one shot of him actually smiling. When was that shot taken you ask, well when he started digging into his little cake. Well, I shouldn't say digging, he was actually very careful about it, he wasn't exactly sure he was allowed to eat it. He kept looking at me for the ok.
It was a great party, all the kids had so much fun!

2008-03-07T10:57:00.000-08:00

So lately I have been experiencing extremely horrible headaches, possible migraines.
Not knowing exactly what was causing them, I decided to pay closer attention to some things I thought might be the reason. I recently stopped drinking so much Coke, and thought that I was going through a major caffeine withdrawal or something, but... that wasn't it.
Then I starting tracking my eating habits. I didn't even realize it, but I have been maybe eating , twice a day. Can you believe that? I mean what was I thinking? Oh wait, I know what I was thinking. I have three kids here all day, who has the time to sit and enjoy a nice healthy meal?
So I put myself on a nice healthy diet this week, complete with 3 healthy meals a day, and of course healthy snacks. After starting this I have come to notice that if I don't eat about every 2 hours I start to feel the pain in my neck, and if I don't feed myself right then, it starts to work it's way up the back of my head.
This has made me realize that we as women, can become so caught up in caring for everyone and everything around us, and that we really need to focus more on making sure that we are taking care of ourselves as well.

I am happy to report, since I started actually feeding myself this week, I am feeling great. I have so much more energy for the kids, I have a much better attitude, and even though I have to be munching every two hours, the headaches are gone, and I think I'm actually gaining weight! I lost a lot while not eating.

Emilio's First Year

2008-03-04T08:10:00.000-08:00

Birth

1 Month

2 Months

3 Months

4 Months

5 Months

6 Months

7 Months

8 Months

9 Months

10 Months

11 Months

12 Months

11 Months Old!

2008-01-23T08:34:00.001-08:00

So the Bean is now 11 months old. Where does time go?
Not only is he crawling all over,but he's now walking along the furniture, while holding on of course.
He says four words now. Dada, Momma, ball, and now whenever he sees Amiyah's orange bat he says "baaaaaaat" it's super cute!
He loves music, especially jazz. I downloaded the cd Baby Loves Jazz from itunes, and he claps along to it every morning and afternoon.

2008-01-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

Look, Amiyah has a mullet! She did it herself.
Needless to say I was not very happy when I first saw it. Especially since Joey and I just had her hair cut into a beautiful layered bob, so that all her bouncy curls would lay just right. Well apparently Amiyah didn't like her new cut. When I asked her why she did it she said because she didn't like her curls in her face. So... instead of asking me to put her hair back, she figured she would solve the problem herself, and just cut them all off.
Well... looks like she's gonna be sportin' an afro for a little while.

Sneaky Bean

2008-01-23T06:43:00.000-08:00

So I left the living room for about five seconds to get the phone, and as you can see I left him all alone with the can of snacks. Mind you, they were closed when I left.I come back and they were dumped all over the place, and he was munching away with his two teeth.

Merry Christmas in 2007

2007-12-20T06:41:00.001-08:00

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas, and a blessed New Year!

In Christ, The Zarazua Family
Jose, Brandi, Amiyah & celebrating his first Christmas, Emilio.

2007-12-20T06:39:00.001-08:00

What is it???

2007-12-20T06:15:00.001-08:00

So yesterday, like usual, Amiyah wakes up and the first thing she goes for are her paper, pencils, and crayons.
After about 30 minutes she came to me with her finished drawing.
Upon looking at it, I was puzzled as to what it was. So I sat for a second trying to figure it out, can you? I sure couldn't.
After a minute I excitedly said, "wow Amiyah, that's great! What is it?"

She explained to me that it was the inside of her body. Well besides the two faces. Those were drawings of herself and me.
At the top on the left you have what she said was colored blood. Then on the bottom left we have her colored bones. Finally we see her heart in all different colors.
I was very curious as to why she drew this. She informed me that she wanted to draw blood, hearts, and bones on paper, so that she was able to see inside her body.

She comes up with the most random things sometimes. What an imagination.