Living Life with Gratitude

Fight On!

2010-04-11T00:20:00.000-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

Moments

2010-04-07T12:08:00.000-07:00

I can honestly say... life is busy...
and sometimes we may forget about the MOMENTS that happen in our life.

I hope that you will be able to step aside the chaos and just BE in the MOMENT.
I know I will try. xoxoxxo Doreen

Blog- ya soon,

What a Weekend! Birthdays, Egg Hunts, Easter...

2010-04-06T18:11:00.000-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

The Mobile Gods Have Answered My Prayers

2010-03-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

I love Skype for many reasons... now especially because my phone carrier and Skype have collaborated and NOW I can Skype mobile my peeps! I suggest that if you don't Skype... start skype-ing! It is AWESOME!!!

Blog- ya soon,

It has been a week and I am still reminiscing...

2010-03-27T23:40:00.000-07:00

It has been a week since I have returned and yet, I still think very much about the sights and sounds of London! I stumbled upon this song by Buble and LOOOOOVE it. Ya; know everyone keeps asking me, "So...how was it...?" My response is the same, "Ahhh-mazing!" So this week I have been trying to play catch up and am really behind with things but do not regret for a second that I left my daily grind for a getaway.

Anyway, I wanted to share a few links because I am commonly asked, "So what is your favorite thing.. how are the people... the weather.... the food..?" I realize that words can not exactly describe and articulate the beauty of things. Sure, the pictures may capture a glimpse of it. But even then it does not capture the panaromic beauty of it all.
So here are a few links that I thought I'd share:

Blog- ya soon,

Pictures from trip...

2010-03-22T10:59:00.001-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

17 Time Zones in 10 Days...

2010-03-22T10:51:00.000-07:00

If we talked before my “Week Adventure in London,” you would know that I was filled with anxiety. You would know that the burden of the Master’s program, running a full house with three kids and a dog while hubby is away to prepare for the departure was a bit much. In the days leading up to the trip, my typical routine was managed by the minute incorporating research and analyzing education journals and formatting “Authorization to Treat a Minor” and “Temporary Custody “Forms. I wanted to make sure that everything would be ready for THOSE unplanned, unforeseen moments. Ava’s nebulizer- CHECK! Kylie and Alexa’s homework- CHECK! Dog food and supplies- CHECK! Clothes for ANY possible weather- CHECK! Really, you name it- I packed it! I thought of every possible event that could occur and I was prepared! Or at least I thought I did…What I didn’t realize is that things WILL occur no matter how much planning I put in for those unlikely and "just in case" moments. What I learned is that whether I plan for those "unforeseen" moments, things will either happen or they won't. The stress of hoping they don't happen, or preventing things from happening is not as big as when it actually occurs. Most importantly I was not going to let the stressors of preparing for the trip define my trip. So I let it go... everything has been handled as best as they could. It was now time for me to give myself an experience that I will not forget!

Day 1: Heading to Henderson
I pulled the kids out of school in hopes that we would beat Sunset. Doesn’t it sound so "Lewis and Clark"? But I would not take ANY chances driving across the desert with three kids and a dog. Ironically, I prepared for EVERYTHING except that EVERYTHING doesn't fit in 1 car. Fortunately, my girlfriend was over and we literally re-packed everything... in the driveway (Imagine what the neighbors were thinking). After the ‘minor’ diversion, we were off! We encountered a bit of traffic leaving LA but after all the little hiccups, we arrived safely at my parents’ home. I love it there! It is in a serene part of the desert with views to die for. There is a sense of calmness at my parents’ home which after all the stress leading up to it, I needed some tranquility.

So as I reviewed the contents of my suitcase (AGAIN); I began to cross off things realizing, "I am prepared... I think". I kept asking myself,“What am I forgetting?” It was odd... sorta like what people with OCD go through. But I think much of that feeling is because I felt a sense of uneasiness leaving the kids. It has nothing to do with my parents. My parents are remarkable caretakers and I trust them wholeheartedly. But it felt unnatural to leave the kids behind as I leave half way around the world to accompany my husband on a business trip. At one point, I thought.. "Maybe I should just back out". It was definitely an irrational thought. So I was at peace with leaving for a few days. But when night came, I could not help but peak in and cuddle with each child a bit to absorb their smells and watch them rest peacefully.

Day 2: London is Calling My Name

I awoke with a bitter sweet feeling of excitement and sadness. I could not escape the thought that I was leaving the kids or if I was not prepared. Yes, it was a bit irrational but at the same time, my world revolves around the safety and assurance of my children and their health. So to leave them was not innate for me. However, I had to to a lot still to go so with the help of my parents, I was able to take care of the last minute items. When I returned, I realized, "This is it! I am off! WOAH!" With only a few hours left to spare, I reviewed my contents (again). But this time I needed a mental picture of where I placed my booklight or iPod. At this point, I am wondering if I have OCD. When the time came and I said my good-byes, a sense of rationale came over me. Unlike the erratic OCD traits I developed a few days prior. I realized with a sense of affirmation that everything is going to be ok. The girls were supportive and happy for me so if they felt sad, it wasn’t apparent. My mom and dad were excited to spend this time with the girls and already managed the typical details of our scheduled routines. I was packed and ready to depart (and knew EXACTLY where everything is). Then came "Me" time. It is funny how a mother of three filled with enourmous amounts of responsilbility was able to release that and redirect all that into something far greater than the stress and anxiety I had leading up to the day. I realized that it is not selfish, that my kids are ok, that my husband needs me, and that nothing is worth all the cynical behavior I had prior. When I went through security, I realized this is where my personal journey begins. I could either fill my expedition with worries of things that are beyond my control or just realize that everything that is in my control has been handled and resolved. It is amazing what being in an airport can do for the soul ;) So I was off… London, here I come!

Day 3: London

Thank goodness for a night flight to Europe. I had great seats, sat by a really nice man, and watched movies that I have been wanting to see like the “Blind Side” & “Up in the Air” and slept peacefully the remaining part of the way. Once the plane landed in Heathrow, I was concerned the British Airways would lose my baggage as they did with hubby's. According to him, Heathrow is the largest airport in the world. So whether it is the largest or not, it certainly was big! We had to take an underground tram from one part of terminal 5 to the other. Baggage claim was in another section. So by the time I reached customs, I was pooped from all the walking. Hubby arranged for car service and as soon as I exited the doors, there was a kind man that greeted me to take me to the hotel. The driver was so kind and provided a mini tour of the city. We drove through a rural area passed many terrace homes and bare trees. Shortly, we arrived in Central London and passed through the Kensington area and through Hyde Park…..BEAUTIFUL!!!! When we pulled up to the hotel, my hubby was there (pitter patter)waiting for me downstairs and it was such a neat feeling to see him- in a different country after a week apart. I just kept thinking, “Wow, we are in London!” He brought up my suitcase and we were so excited to each other. The hotel was amazing! The area was beautiful! So he wanted to grab a cup of coffee so we can share what happened since we last talked before I boarded the plane. It was mid-afternoon in London, but for me it was early in the morning! So it did seem odd that we were getting ready for dinner when in LA I would be getting ready for breakfast. Anyway, we met up with some of his colleagues for drinks at the Mandarin Hotel and dinner in Kensington at a {yummy} Indian Restaurant, Chutney Mary. Fabulous people…amazing curry… extraordinary wine… was such a nice evening! We came home at 12:30 but it felt like it was 5pm… yup- good -old jet lag! So falling asleep was defintiely HARD!

Day 4-Touring London with Hubby

Jet lag=reason why I was not able to fully enjoy the amazing sights…. We walked all of Central London and my feet paid the price. The architecture was beautiful and aesthetically pleasing but when fatigue sets in.. nothing had the power to amaze me. After hubby's walking tour, we had a quick lunch at a restaurant that reminded me of California Pizza Kitchen with a bistro feel. After lunch I felt recharged to continue on a bit more. On part 2 of our walking expedition I noticed a man ran in front of us to take a picture. I thought that was odd, then I heard a guy behind us say, “F*%$o off”. I turned around and realized it was the paps trying to capture a celebrity…Tilda Swinton! So there might be some paparazzi rag with us walking in Leicester Square and Tilda Swinton with her young beau. But the amazing part was the St. Patrick’s Day festivities that shut down much of Trafalgar Square. There were parades along the Thames and back to Trafalgar. It was intense! There were all sorts of costumes, green boas, and St. Patty’s Days regalia to commemorate the festivities. It was definitely a festive occasion. I just wish I wasn’t so tired so that I could enjoy it. I just could not hang so we headed back to the room. We walked from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace, across St. James Park and up Mayfair District to the room. It was nice to catch a few Zzzzz but I did not have the energy to resume sightseeing. We ordered in and it was comforting to cozy up in the hotel’s robe and slippers.

Day 5- Yeah JP and Grace are coming

Before hubs went to work, we had an amazing breakfast at the hotel. It was such a quaint restaurant. Outside the restaurant you can watch people head out to work and kids off to school. Oh, I could have sat there for hours. Hubs went off to work and I wanted to take a little walk around the neighborhood and shop for shoes and a purse. Shortly after I returned from my rendezvous with the streets of London, Grace and JP arrived! YEAH! We had so much fun the entire day! I was so excited to see them! We did so much in one day it was awesome! We had a yummy lunch in a pub, visited the British Museum, rode the Underground, went shopping, met up with Jamie at the hotel, had an amazing dinner in Chinatown, it was fun filled!

Day 6- Hubs took the day off

We were excited to hear that Hubs took the day off to refresh his thoughts. Work has been intense. Anyway, we had a great breakfast and off to visit the streets and sights of London we go. We ate at EAT a fabulous little eatery (that I think should be established here in the states). We headed off to Leicester Square via the Underground, then off to the infamous St. Paul’s Cathedral. I was overwhelmed with its beauty. Words cannot express the amount of detail and history in such an amazing cathedral. Hubs and I agree this was the highlight of the trip. Grace, hubs, and I headed up the top to the Whispering Galley. It was GORGEOUS! Grace ventured even higher and was able to capture amazing views all across London. We spent a good chunk of the day there and went to lunch. Since our day was limited, we parted ways. Hubs and I sought after the Tower of London via a Red Double Decker Bus. WOW! It was captivating! It was a bit of an oxymoron to see something so historical amidst London’s Financial District. But once you enter the grounds, you can’t help but feel the history within the walls. The Jewels… the cells… the view of the Thames… the location where many have lost their lives, AMAZING! We headed back to the room to join his colleagues for dinner. Such great company and good food made for a great evening.

Day 7- Last Full Day in London {Bittersweet}

Unfortunately, my feet were hurting so bad that I wasn’t able to join Grace and JP on a tour through Kensington. I was so bummed. But my heels were so torn up that it hurt to stand. However, they returned with the most delicious French macaroons that I had ever tasted. One of the macaroons literally tasted like a rose! It was the most flavorful thing I had in a looooooong time! We took one last stroll to Regent Street for last minute shopping. We returned to the room for a little rest before they returned home. It was such an amazing couple of days that we spent together and we had such a memorable time. Words cannot express how appreciative I was for them to come and spend this time with hubby and I! xoxoxxo

After they left, hubs and I took a cab to Harrods- PHENOMENAL! I have never in my life seen such extravagant things in a department store. There were maps (true cartography circa 1500), glass pieces made from rare stones found in the Amazon Forest, small area rugs that cost more than my car, just amazing! On one of the landings, there was a memorial tribute to Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed. Harrod’s showcased her engagement ring and a champagne glass. It was remarkable. We then decided to commemorate our last evening together in London at this really quaint Italian restaurant near our hotel. So good.... and so romantic! It reminds me much of those bistros that are depicted in artwork and in movies. We were seated by the window. There were people walking along the streets to the vairous eateries near by. The ambiance, the food, everything made it a night to remember. After dinner we strolled back to the hotel and joined his coworker for cocktails. After awhile, hubby and I headed back up to the room so that I can gather my belongings for the journey home. I had difficulty falling asleep because all the moments, sounds, and experiences I had of this exciting adventure kept rushing through my head. Part of me did not want it to end but I missed the girls so much!

Day 8- The departure…

Hubby and I wanted to enjoy our last moment together at a french bistro for breakfast. It was so yummy. But he had to return to work and I had to gather my things for the flight.

The thought of the last day was momentous… and to describe the details of the day would remind me of how exhausting traveling can be. I think the journey home can easily be summed up as delays caused for an 18 hour travel experience, due to storms- we landed in Phoenix for a moment and after it cleared headed back to McCarran, turbulence, but the highlight of the journey were my new friends. I met two interesting gentlemen with (one from Australia and Vice President of the National Board of Lymphoma Society) and another English man from the UK who is attending a ‘stag’ party in Vegas for his brother’s wedding (yes, Hangover was their inspiration). Anyway, the three of us from completely opposite ends of the earth had the most interesting conversations about culture, music, and history. It definitely made the tedious journey bearable. We parted ways but I think our conversations will resonate with each other for a long time. After passing through customs, I felt relieved to be in the ‘homeland.’ I was greeted with my daughters and their "Welcome Home" signs and tears of joy overwhelmed me. When we returned to my parents, I was so exhausted that my body felt toxic. I had a complete night’s rest.

Day 9- Jet Lagged

Trying to balance out my circadian rhythm was a challenge but fortunately I was able to coordinate my sleep with PST. With the help of my parents, I re-packed and prepared for our journey back to LA.

Day 10- LA… We are coming home!

We left early and returned home, unloaded our belongings and headed to LAX to pick up Hubby. Phew! After the past 2 weeks of craziness- we are once more a Party of 5!

I am still experiencing jet-lag (very very very exhausted), I have to do my best to resume typical activity. However, a new sense of calmness is veiling my spirit. Before I left, I was filled with anxiety with all the things that could possibly occur . Of course stress and motherhood is somewhat a symbiotic occurrence, I can say this with great affirmation that the thought of things actually occurring is not worth the stress of it when it occurs. Before the trip, I joked with my neighbor in a sarcastic tone, “As long as an earthquake won’t happen…” well guess what, an earthquake did happen. I jokingly said to my parents “Just in case Ava has an asthma attack…” guess what, she had an asthma attack. I sarcastically said to Hubs, “Hah, like our plane is going to encounter difficulties,” guess what, it did. So the lesson learned is that I may have had a temporary debilitating anxiety a few days prior to London thinking that these things will happen. And when they did, it was handled. Sure I can look at it like... because of my “mental preparation” for these things I was able to address them a bit easier. But what I really took with me is to enjoy the experience of moments and not to feel stressed about events that are beyond my control and that is OK for a mom, a USC grad-student, and wife to “check-out” for a few days. My feet are still on the mend, I am still exhausted, but as I load the laundry with clothes from the trip; I can’t help but think about the people I met along the journey, the time I spent with Grace and JP, that at this moment there are vendors along Regent Street selling eccentric items, the cabs are bravely weaving in and out of traffic, and that London is a place that I would like to visit again.

Blog- ya soon,

Happy Birthday to our Buddy!

2010-01-31T22:06:00.001-08:00

Blog- ya soon,

Meet Sluggy Patterson the creator of PunchDub the game

2010-01-28T14:38:00.001-08:00

Road Trip!

2010-01-23T21:12:00.000-08:00

Jamie and I were able to have a little mini- getaway... and BOY did our brains need it with all that has been going on in our scheds!

Blog- ya soon,

It's already 2010.... seriously?

2010-01-18T13:07:00.000-08:00

It has been a great start to a new year!
Jamie is in full swing with everything going on at work....
Kids have been blooming...
it's amazing to see how much they have grown
since they started school in September.. {love it}
I have been busy with school!
While I am enrolled in a Master's program and still have,
three kids, a dog, and hubbie to take care of;
I have been compelled to utilize each and every minute that I have...
yup, every minute..
so I am sorry that I haven't been able to post as much...
however, I thought it is about time to give you an update...

This month ...

We took down our Christmas decorations(click here) ...before 3 King's Day {which in itself is a huuuuuge accomplishment}
Lex had an amazing assembly (click here) "Walking Through The Revolution" where she participated as Francis Lewis
I was able to break away from the books for a bit to celebrate a friend's birthday at the Melting Pot (click here)
We visited Disneyland (click here)..the day before the holiday decor came down..
I was also able to create a website for the kids'school (click here)...
We celebrated Jamie's Birthday!

I took the CSET {Argh.. and Yawn}

We recovered from a(nother) cold {boo}

Renewed our passports {yeah}

only 1/2 way through the month and there's so much more to do....
Fortunately, I have a week off of school so that I can play "catch up" and
prepare for next semester {woo hooo}

Blog- ya soon,

Cheers to a New Decade!

2010-01-01T15:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's!

Blog- ya soon,

December in a Nutshell...

2009-12-27T22:12:00.000-08:00

This month flew by!
As soon as Thanksgiving was over with,
we went full swing into preparing for Christmas.
It was challenging balancing three kids' holiday activities, research articles, writing, etc.
but all the running around, money spent, sleep deprivation... was worth it.
We had so many memories that will stay with us.

Here are a few of the things we did this holiday {ENJOY}

Blog- ya soon,

Thankful...

2009-11-29T14:22:00.000-08:00

Our Thanksgiving was just perfect!

We all have been running around like crazy this year

so it was nice to just sit and focus on the things that matter the most...

EACH OTHER!!!!

It was a very intimate and memorable dinner.

Blog- ya soon,

Day of True Gratitude

2009-11-26T02:07:00.000-08:00

Gratitude is how I live my life (hence the title, "Living Life with Gratitude")....

Awhile back, I started signing off in emails, text messages, letters, etc with the signature, "With Gratitude" because I feel no matter what the circumstance is in the messages we are leaving with another; a sense of gratitude needs to be transferred to the receiver.

If I was sending an email to a professor, it is gratitude that I have for their dedication to educate and provide guidance. If I was sending a message to a family member or friend, I am grateful that they are in my life. If it is an email to a business correspondent, I am grateful that they are providing a service that will benefit me or my family. Therefore, I must send my gratitude towards the other person...

I feel that empowerment can enrich lives. Gratitude is empowerment.
Gratitude for me is the ultimate factor in my life that allows me to see the positive side of things.
Everyday we are faced with some sort of dilemma,
It can be groundbreaking, or it can be trivial...
But it is in our percepton that can provide a positive energy.
So this Thanksgiving,
I am grateful for the things that surround my life .

Blog- ya soon,

Picture time with the girls!

2009-11-25T01:54:00.000-08:00

{Oh... Shoot!}
I have a ton of empty frames that needed new pics...
so the girls and I headed to a local park and took some really neat photos.
Apparently, this must be the spot to take pics.
During the hour we were there,
we ran into over 6 photographers taking pics of their subjects..
They had so much fun and did not want to go!

Blog- ya soon,

School is suppose to make me smarter? Or just fry my brain?

2009-11-10T21:18:00.000-08:00

May the venting begin....

I need to write something other than

{in Freudian-like voice}

"The Developmental Perspectives that were demonstrated in the______ study exhibited implications of Concrete Operational Thought as oppose to the Preoperational Views"

ARGHHHHH....

My brain only wants to write 3-4 letter words...

Seriously,

I go to bed thinking...

Hmm,... what would Vygotsky do?

Haa..

I should get s sticker made..

WWVD?

Anyway.. thanks for venting session...

Blog- ya soon,

My baby turns 4!

2009-11-04T22:39:00.000-08:00

Blog- ya soon,

Ava's Day at American Girl

2009-11-01T22:28:00.000-08:00

Blog- ya soon,

Halloween Time

2009-10-31T22:29:00.000-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

Trick or Treat at DCA

2009-10-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

Last night, we visited Mickey's Trick or Treat at Disney's California Adventure!
We had a great time!
It was crowded!
Our Godson and his daddy were able to join us!
So much fun!

Check out the pics here (I have been having difficulty posting pics to the site.. sorry)
Blog- ya soon,

What a busy week...

2009-09-26T11:49:00.000-07:00

It has been an amazing week so far!
Today will be the 1st day I can actually sit with
my hubby and CHEER for my school... USC!!!
Fight On!

However, getting everything
ready for grad school
can be somewhat overwhelming...
This paper needs to be FAXED,
This needs to be mailed...
On and on...

So everythng is a GO and my classes begin Mon.
In the meantime,
I have been working on orientation
and a few assignments.
Juggling that with life is a challenge..
But one that I will over come.

It has been interesting to hear
the various responses
I receive when I tell them
about my new adventure.
Some I wouldn't say are the
most supportive...
nor appropriate...
But overall, I have received
so much love and support!
I am excited and ready
to accept this new challenge.
It has been something
I always wanted to pursue but
quite frankly did not have the time to.
This is my time and I am blessed
to be surrounded by such a
strong supportive network of
family and friends that are
here for me (and my family)
to help me succeed at this.

In the meantime,
I have been busy
celebrating my birthday!
It has been a fun week!
I have been spoiled by
my friends and family.
I have gone out to
dinner and lunch a few times this week...
I even got a full body massage '
by the most amazing massage therapist ever ....
FUN FUN!

On my actual bday,
J took us out to dinner and we had the BEST
Red Velvet cupcake (my favorite)
to finsh it off with. We then headed over to
Disneyland to redeem a "fun card"
(Annual Passholders have the
option to receive a
"Fun Card" valued at $72
due to their current promotion).
I divied it up for the girls s
o they can get something...
that itself was fun to watch!

I would honestly have to say
this has been the most
celebratory of all birthdays thus far.
Sure, every year
is memorable,
but there's a huge amount of gratitude I have
towards things (and people)
and I think that has made ALL the difference!

Well, I'm off, one of girlfriends
gave me a gift certificate to a mani/ pedi.
Boy, I can't tell you
how much my "Barney Rubble" feet
will appreciate it! :)

More to come...

Blog- ya soon,

I am accepted in the Masters of Arts Program!!!!

2009-09-19T23:35:00.000-07:00

Just got word...

I will be attending USC's Masters program!

It is an intense program.

I will try my best to keep

you posted with

my new ADVENTURE!!

Woo Hoo!!!

Blog- ya soon,

Pony Rides... Petting Zoo... the joys of childhood

2009-09-19T23:06:00.000-07:00

We recently spent the day with our Godson.

The girls had a blast!

Blog- ya soon,

Sometimes, ya just gotta get away...

2009-09-18T22:25:00.000-07:00

Our room with a view

Blog- ya soon,

ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!!!

2009-09-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

So recently,

hubby and I decided to downsize

from the Eddie Bauer Expedition

that we love so much to a smaller Mid- Size.

Things were falling apart, gas was outrageous, etc...{boo}
So.... after looking, reading, researching, and more looking...
we, (mostly J) fell in love with our new car.

After 2.5 days... BAM

a lady reversed in to me

at the preschool parking lot!
ARGHH!!!

So our "new" car was in the

shop.

For crying out loud,

there are buttons,

on that car,

that I have yet to explore!

Just another thing to add on our "to-do" list!
At least no one was hurt...

Blog- ya soon,

1st day of preschool...

2009-09-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

First Day Of School

-Unknown

She started school this morning,
And she seemed so very small.
As I walked there beside her
In the Preschool hall.
And as she took her place beside
the others in the class,
I realized how all too soon
Those first few years can pass.
Remembering, I saw her as
She first learned how to walk.
The words that we alone made out
When she began to talk.
This little girl so much absorbed
In learning how to write.
It seems as though she must have grown
To girlhood overnight.
My eyes were blurred by hastily
I brushed the tears away
Lest by some word or sign of mine
mar her first big day
Oh how I longed to stay with her
And keep her by the hand
To lead her through the places
That she couldn't understand.
And something closely kin to fear
Was mingled with my pride.
I knew she would no longer be
A baby by my side.
But she must have her chance to live,
To work her problems out,
The privilege to grow and learn
What life is all about.
And I must share my little girl
With friends and work and play;
She's not a baby anymore --
She's in Preschool today.

Blog- ya soon,

In Our Hearts...

2009-09-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

172 days till summer...

2009-09-10T09:02:00.000-07:00

WOW!

It's been 6 days since Ky and Lex

went back to school.

What a whirlwind...

we went from lazy days of summer

to ..."did you finish your homework?

were you a good friend on the playground?"
and a lot of...

"back to school is tonight...please sign this, please fill out the emergency cards so my table can get points...."

Yup... school has started.

Blog- ya soon,

Today was...The 1st day at school!

2009-09-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

Last Day of Summer...

2009-09-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

A little pampering...
A little "Back to School" gift...

Some happy faces...

Some rejuvenating...

A good memory...

Blog- ya soon,

Happy Anniversary MOM and DAD!

2009-08-31T22:45:00.001-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

Wildfires are not a good thing for asthmatic patients...

2009-08-30T21:16:00.000-07:00

Last Tues,
while the kids were working on their workbooks...

and I was making pillows for the girls' rooms....
I hear a loud "reaajheiorjaf"
and then
noticed cool air was not coming from air conditioner...
"You have GOT to be kidding me"!

NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
It is like over a 100 degrees out there and let's just face it...
air conditioning is a luxury that you can't put a price on
in when it is HHHH-O-T!
We don't even have fans!
The one thing I can't cope with is HEAT!
No... I am not whining..
having a house with temps reaching 95 degrees is just plain ol' ABUSE!!!
So after 3 days with no air...
and a ton of horrible wildfires nearby
and poor air quality
is not a good thing for AVA...
let's put it this way,
her respiratory system is so sensitive
that even on "RED FLAG" days
we have to seal the house up
or she'll have a nasty reaction to it.
Yup, we are now doing this daily

In addition to prednisone, mucinex, Zithromax, etc...
Her MD diagnosed her with pnuemonia..
Granted...
she could have picked it up at
1 of the 2 kid birthday parties we went to last weekend
or
from a quick trip we took to Disneyland last Mon...

Whatever the case may be...

we had to cancel most of our scheduled activities to help Ava get better. Timing is never good. I mean who says "Okay, child with severe respirartory issues, can you please get sick on the 14th not the 22 because quite frankly, I just have too much going on". I am just glad that she is recovering and we stayed clear from the hospital thus far...

BTW, our air conditioner is fixed and we are ELATED!

"Blog" ya soon!

Congratulations!

2009-08-29T23:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend
Jamie and I were very honored
to share in the joy and
witness a special day for one of our friends!
She's MARRIED!!!
She was stunning!
Such a beautiful bride that illuminated HAPPINESS!!!
Congratulations Grace!
We are so happy for you!

Blog- ya soon,
Doreen

ELLEN!!! The Season Premiere! Yah.. I was there!

2009-08-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

Wooo hoo!
I had an awesome day with my family!

We ate at the

infamous Smokehouse

So much fun!

Then, went to a taping to see ELLEN!

You gotta' see her show! Love it!

Plus, it was the Season Premiere..

so even better, right?

However....

sometimes we can't get all we were hoping for...

yah... um..did not not win the Mega Millions Jackpot...

nope... not the school's $$$$$ raffle...

I WAS keeping my

fingers crossed for a

brand new car!

BUUUUUUTTTT

(no pun intended)...

we got....

(drumroll puh-leaze).....

***spoiler***

UNDERWEAR

(click here to see what all the hubba hubba was all about)

Oh well, we did get to....

see David Beckham {dreamy}

DANCE DANCE DANCE DANCE and DANCE

watched Ellen dance with the SYTYCD crew... that was great!

Ya know what...
here are some pics-

my dad playing a guitar

and mom looking out

my sis's living room window

that overlooks the Hollywood Hills

numerical order... waiting to be seated...

waiting area for Ellen show

(photo taken post taping)

if you live in LA and saw
a huuuuuuge promo banner
along side the studio...
or on Sunset Blvd...
or in London...
or Times Square...

you MUST watch the

show to see what all the fuss was about.

All in all... It was a great show.

Don't miss it!

It will aire September 8, 2009

Check your local listings here.

Blog- ya soon,

We're BACK!!!

2009-08-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

No more blackout days...

The veil had been lifted!
Our Disneyland passports
had been "black-ed out"
for almost a month and a half.
So we stopped by the park.

Ava is now tall enough to ride on
"Soarin Over California"
{woohoo}
She loooooooove loooooove looooooved it!
A bit apprehensive at first
but was such a trooper.
Ky told her,
"Don't worry, sissy! I'll hold your hand!"
{Pitter Patter}

While we were waiting to see the
fireworks show on Main Street.
We shared a...

Amazingly, it was FAT-FREE and had NO CALORIES ;)

Memorable Moment.
Have to admit, I held back a tear or two while watching it!
The fireworks were going, beautiful music was playing... and then
Alexa turns to me with a smile
and says, "Thank you Mom for bringing us here!"
Aww..... I melted...
Then, I looked over at the younger girls and
Ky turns around and blew me a kiss
{heart still melting}
then....
Ava smiled and looked at me, didn't say a word and hugged me!
{MELTED}
It was one of those moments
that I thought to myself.... "don't forget this!"

Blog- ya soon,

Can you spot the difference?

2009-08-16T18:24:00.000-07:00

Before...

After...

Yep.. someone has a little "blingy-bling" in their ears!
Ky was so excited!
Doesn't she looked THRILLED... :)
Actually, she is definitely into making sure
the antiseptic is applied ...
3 times a day
and is CONSTANTLY turning the posts!
Good... we gotta do that for SIX weeks!
{happy happy joy joy}
She is so funny when she
catches a glimpse of herself in the mirror.
Ava wanted her ears pierced too but,
changed her mind at the last minute..

I will post a video soon.
I don't know why,
but I have been having difficulty uploading video...
argh.....

Blog- ya soon,

Ky's Day In LA at American Girl

2009-08-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

Ky's celebrations continue...

"and the beat goes on"....

Huge amount of appreciation goes toward my fam!

Oma & Opa, Auntie Heidi, and Michelle
all had contributed to a FULL day of fun
at the "American Girl" store and cafe in LA at the Grove.

It was a day with all "THE Works"!
She had a fuuuuuuuuuuuuuun and fabulous day!
So wonderful!

Thank you so much for giving her such awesome memories to treasure!
Blog- ya soon,

Yeah Stan!

2009-08-15T23:57:00.000-07:00

To our friend!

We are so proud of you!

Blog- ya soon,

A Saturday in Summer...

2009-08-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

I don't want summer to end!
Blog- ya soon,

What do you think about...

2009-08-08T22:29:00.000-07:00

I LOOOOOOVE the new sign I picked up!

Blog- ya soon,

Oh how fast they grow....

2009-08-07T16:47:00.000-07:00

One of my girlfriends came by to drop off a
lil' something for Ky and we got to taking pics.
So fun to watch lil' ones play!
They grow up so fast!

Blog- ya soon,

Girl Day!

2009-08-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

The girls and I were invited for "Girl Day" with our friends and we had a BLAST!
Had lunch, hung out at the mall, visited the candy store!
What more can a girl want...

Blog- ya soon,

Cupcakes with Ky

2009-08-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

For Ky's bday,

we visited Legoland.

However, making it

"exclusive" for Ky with

2 kids is a hard thing to do {boo}.

So we thought we'd do something simple...

She invited her classmates,

that live in the neighborhood,

for cupcakes!

It was great!

It wasn't a party! No gifts!

She just wanted

to share cupcakes

with her friends from school.

So we did!

It was fun!

Birthday girl was so pooped out..

she didn't even make it to the bed!
She crashed out on the floor!

Ava was out like a light... E-A-R-L-Y!

Blog- ya soon,

We love surprise visits from Oma and Opa!

2009-08-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

Xoxo,

Doreen

Counting down!

2009-08-01T11:06:00.000-07:00

One of my dear friends is expecting a lil' one

and we are so excited for her and her hubby!

Congratulations my friend!

We can't wait!

Blog- ya soon,

Carlsbad 2009

2009-07-26T00:59:00.000-07:00

Blog- ya soon,

Poolside

2009-07-24T10:47:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful afternoon it was!

The girls and I were invited to swim at our friends' home!
We had a great time!

Blog- ya sooon!

Metallic Brown Smokey Eye---The Easiest Smokey Eye Ever!!

2009-07-23T11:24:00.001-07:00

I have been tinkering with some new ways to enhance my make up.. or update my look and came across this neat video tutorial for a smokey eye look. Fun for those nights out!
Hope you enjoy!
xoxo

It Was FUN Being F-A-T! But all good things come to an end!

2009-07-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

It was FUUUUUUN
being overweight!
I could eat whatever the heck I wanted
...and NOT feel guilty!
If I was stressed, sure I'd do lunges..
towards CHOCOLATE!
Mmmmm....... LOVE Pad Thai
Mmmmm....... LOVE Tempura
Mmmmm....... LOVE Sprinkle's Red Velvet
BUT....
I had a recent awakening
and realized habits need some changing.
So my new motto is
" It was Fun Being Fat."

Pre-childbearing... sure I was thin(ner).
However, daily life
got in the way of working out.
So I decided to start up again.

Not only that, I had to research
on how to feed my crew!
I came across some
easy reading. Click Here
But fell in love with this site!
It is called Hungry Girl.
She has recipe ideas and forums.
{Love it}
Check it out!
Wish Me Luck On My New Adventure!

Blog- ya soon,

Auntie's Birthday with the Girls

2009-07-20T12:04:00.000-07:00

The girls were excited to do something fun for their Auntie...

So they did...

Blog- ya soon,

3's a charm!!! On TipJunkie... AGAIN!! YAY!

2009-07-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

ELATED!!!
Have you visited TipJunkie lately?
I am on there!!!
So excited!
Click Here to check it out!

Blog- ya soon,

Happy Birthday to my lil' sis!

2009-07-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

Faith Hill at the Bowl= GNO

2009-07-17T15:30:00.000-07:00

Yay! Hubby is back!!!

2009-07-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

Hub had to go to the UK for business

and the plan was for me to go.

HOWEVER.... so many things

did not end up in our favor {sniffle, boo}

including my passport

not arriving in time (arrrgghhh)

Jamie and I were

B-U-M-M-E-D!

But, he's home now....

and we are ECSTATIC!

Anyway, he took some cool photos!

Thought I'd share...

Blog ya soon,

Life Is Good At The Beach

2009-07-15T15:52:00.000-07:00

So much for us to do at the zoo...

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

We had such a great time at the zoo with our friends.

"Blog"- ya soon

xoxo,

Doreen

We {heart} Pasadena!

2009-07-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day it was!

First, met up with

Auntie at The Studio, ate lunch at

Fair Oaks Pharmacy,

hung out at Kidspace,

playtime at the park,

and stopped by the Gamble House.

Good times...

"Blog"-ya soon!

xoxo,

Doreen

We're a Yankee Doodle Dandy....

2009-07-04T15:15:00.000-07:00

We had a great time for the 4th!
problem is...
we lost the pics to proove it!
Arghhh...
I did find one!

Something fun {and free} to do in LA

2009-06-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

Summer is such a wonderful time of the year for our family.

It allows us to spend time with one another

without the stress of "being here"and "being there"...

and allows us just to BE!!!

I came across a fun thing to do in LA,

that I'd thought I'd share.

If you happen to be in Hollywood,

check out the Hollywood Bowl's museum

that is open during "Summersounds"

and it is FREE {woohoo}!

You might even be able to catch stars rehearsing!

According to the website

"The Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra,

and guest artists prepare for their evening performances

on the Hollywood Bowl stage many mornings of the week."

Have fun!

"Blog" ya soon!

SAHM TO A WAHM... and make money

2009-06-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

I was watching "The View" this morning and
they had an interesting segment

that I thought I'd share the 411 with you.

You can become a WAHM (work at home mom)with these great links.

FetchPetCare
Guru
Elance
Odesk
Associated Content
Helium
Live Person
Hand Me Downs
Sitter City
Care
Senior Helpers
Direct Selling 411

"Blog" ya soon!

xoxo,
Doreen

RIP Michael, Farrah and Ed

2009-06-25T16:33:00.000-07:00

May you rest is peace...

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Not All Who Wander Are Lost (in SAN FRANCISCO)

2009-06-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

We had such a great {heart is singing} time in San Francisco!

lil' getaways for anniversary+ hubby=

rejuvenation for the soul

Please don't let me forget...

the hostess saying to us "Peterson, party of 2"

the feeling of accelerating in a plane...(or the BART)
the love that is shared between us...
the feeling of, relaxing...
the warmth of my husband's hand in mine...
the sound of the cable cars outside our hotel room...
the improptu smiles we would give one another, just because...
the sounds of the city...

the homeless musicians on the street...
the 180 degree view from our suite...
the pain our feet would feel from WALKING up the hills...
the patience needed...
the arguments witnessed between taxi cab drivers...
the hustle...
the architecture...
the flavors of delectable cuisines...
the culture...
the smells...
EVERYTHING!!!
Check out some of the pics we took... yep a montage!

I am glad we were able to have some "us" time.
We needed this opportunity!
"Blog"ya soon!

Grow old with me the best is yet to be... HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, MY LOVE!

2009-06-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

RECIPE FOR LOVE

Take a little bit of me

And a little bit of you

Add an entire decade

And all that we've been through.

2 cups of loyalty generously,

sprinkled with trust.

A pinch of forgiveness,

And laughter is a must

Blend a smile, a kiss

And holding each others hands.

Add this all together,

Between a woman and a man.

Stir in two hearts,

Sprinkled with adoration,

Stir it all together.

And you get a good foundation,

For Love.

Please visit and support a friend of ours...

2009-06-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

Several years back,

I lost a friend of mine to Leukemia.
Words can't describe how horrible this disease is

and the toll it takes on families!
Since then, I have done what I can to support others

in their quest to fight this.
So when I heard that a teacher

at the girls' school is running in a marathon
to support such a wonderful cause. I was thrilled!
Please check her page out:
Michelle Barber's Fundraising Page
Click Here
"Blog"ya soon

Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere. - Chinese Proverb

2009-06-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

Ooops.. I forgot to post some pics from the kids' open house.
Here they are:

We love love love our teachers!

The 4th graders performed with their recorders

I can't believe this year is almost coming to an end!

"Blog" ya soon!

You gotta fight for your right to PARTY!

2009-06-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

As promised ...

here are pics of our "Candy" themed party!

It was beautiful! Colorful! Thematic! Entertaining! Fun!

The kids had a such a great time!

My friend Patti and I were so lucky to receive the help

of about 20 wonderful moms!

They came to meetings, ran around picking up gifts

for the teachers, assembled decorations,

assembled gorgeous invites,

burned copies of the montage,

organized the potluck,

coordinated the donations,

I can go on and on and on!

Thanks!!!

Before I share the pics,

I want to thank my friends for donating items

for the cast members and their families.

Please visit their sites and check out their wonderful stuff!

You can visit Sunshine @ Click Here!

You can visit Debbie @ Click Here!

**If you choose to have a party from them I'd love to meet ya' there!**

Huge amount of appreciation goes toward

my family and friends for their support.

Without them... well, I couldn't and wouldn't!

Thank you Heidi for your talents and wisdom!

Thanks Jenee for all the Tastefully Simple stuff!

Thank you Kelley for being the best DJ ever and sending us the music!

Thank you to Matt for making the best T-shirts EVER!!!

Thank you to my parents for entertaining the kids,

cleaning my house, and "filling in" so

I could focus and put my energy in the party!

Thank you to my gal pals Erin, Tami, Maria, Adrienne,

Michelle, Tami, Wendy, and Grandma Sheri for coming,

sending flowers to Lex, and for all your support!

... and of course

THANKS to my family

for putting up with me

running around like a mad woman! :)

Love ya all! You are the greatest!

So here are some wonderful pics!

The kids are still talking about it! So cute!

"Blog" ya soon!

"Yes, she's turning blue it's true"... a video montage to explain!

2009-06-08T22:52:00.000-07:00

WOW!

Talk about EVENTFUL!

BUSY does not define how chaotic our house was.

But I am glad it has left us with warm memories.

Much of it has been attributed to Lex's school play!

Lex was cast as "Violet" in Willy Wonka".

This all began back in January,

when she auditioned for the part.

Since then, she has been working hard!

All of her hard work came to an end

at the final curtain call this Saturday!

Poor baby was POOPED OUT!

We are so grateful {huge amount of thanks}

that we had so much support from our

friends and family. It was so cute to see

how much appreciation she

has towards our friends and family.

She received a ton of flowers, calls,

and her one of her best friends came too!

Unfortunately, I didn't get as many pictures as

I wanted with our family and friends {boo}.

But here are a few.. ENJOY!

MIA Momma Blogger HAS BEEN FOUND.. and a VIDEO MONTAGE OF US!!!

2009-05-31T12:44:00.000-07:00

Seriously, has it been this long since I have blogged!?!
I knew I was busy but sheesh!!!!

There is something about parenting
school-age children and the "end of the year crunch"
that can be EXHAUSTING!!!!

Could it be... reports, projects, school plays, dance classes, meetings,
parental politics stuff, birthday parties, trips, barb-b-ques... well maybe?
But it is sooooooooooo worth it!

Anyway, I apologize for not blogging,

but I have been buh-zee.
I did manage to create a lil' montage

of some photos hubby and I took of the kids

from the last couple of weeks (amidst the chaos)..

I hope you enjoy!

**HINT- Watch in High Quality**

Well, off to planning a party for the cast members.
I am dying to show you what we are up to!

Think CANDY CANDY CANDY!!!!

Alright huge hint.. Lex is Violet...

Can you guess the play?

Blog- Ya Soon!
xoxox,
Doreen

Who knew I'd love Hulu...

2009-05-11T22:06:00.001-07:00

So on my "day off" (aka Mother's Day),
I had an opportunity to do
whatever selfish thing I wanted to do.
{{YAY}}I was excited!

I sat in bed, with my breakfast
that was served on a wonderful platter by the kids & hubby {yum}, tv remote ready to go and... NOTHING!!! After an episode of "Celebrity Moms" on E! I was bored! I wanted some good ol' reality TV drama or comedy... NADA.. there was a special on the Colorado River {oh fun!}. So I checked what I had stored on my DVR. Ya know, I think I have every single Dora, iCarly, and Hannah Montana on there! G rating all around! BLAHHHHH!!!

So, reason# 234,299,972 why I love my husband is, that he is super tech savvy!
He(Arrrh Matey...You rule!) reminded me of Hulu.

So for (just a few) hours I caught up on whatever the heck I wanted to watch. FUN!
I suggest you check it out. Very different than "YouTube".

Here is a highly rated clip from Hulu!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

It has officially begun..
Mother's Day Weekend is here.. {YAY}
So as I commence my daily ritual to clean the house;I am ready to kick off my shoes, and "clock out"...

"Happy Mother's Day!"

Before I Was A Mom

Before I was a Mom...

I slept as late as I wanted and never worried about how late I got into bed.

I brushed my hair and my teeth everyday.

Before I was a Mom I cleaned my house each day.

I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.

I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.

I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom I had never been puked on.

Pooped on. Spit on. Chewed on. Peed on.

I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.....

I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom I never held down a screaming child

so that doctors could do tests or give shots.

I never looked into teary eyes and cried.

I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.

I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put it down.

I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.

I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.

I never knew that I could love someone so much.

I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.

I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.

I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.

I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.

I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.

I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much before I was a Mom.

-Anonymous

Let's Meet Half Way

2009-05-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had that moment when...

you and a friend are making plans to meet up and

you aren't interested in driving out to where they live?

Mid-conversation you are thinking..

"please let's meet 1/2 way...but where?"

Well the internet has heard your prayers!

My hubby came across this cool site called

HappyMedian

and I thought I'd share.

It is great for those moments when you wonder

what sort of restaurants, movie theaters, etc

are half way between point a and point b

Check it out! Click Here.

Have fun!
"Blog" ya soon

Feliz Cinco de Mayo..oh & free chix

2009-05-05T16:18:00.000-07:00

I hope you had a great weekend.

Our was non-stop action! We went to 2 bday parties;

I had a beauty day, a shopping day,

and shared warm memories with friends and family.

Good times!

Now, I have a silly cold (no, it's not the swine).

the good news is that I have actually been able to REST {phew}

and it's not even Mother's Day yet.

So I was laying in bed and watching Oprah

and apparently she has the hook ups!

For the next 24 hours, she has a link set up for a free meal deal.

If you love KFC's Kentucky Chicken or just

want a free lunch... Check out this link.

"Blog"ya soon

FANCY FRIDAYS ARE ON TIPJUNKIE!!!!!

2009-04-29T22:46:00.000-07:00

YAY!

I am sooooooooooooo thrilled to say

Fancy Fridays made its' way to TipJunkie!
WOOOOOOOHOOOOOOO!!!!

Check out TipJunkie and click here!

Fancy Fridays has been going strong here in our house.

I definitely suggest others to incorporate it in your home!

It pays.. everyday since, the kids are mindful of their manners at the table!

"Blog" ya soon!

"Our greatest natural resource is the minds of our children" - Walt Disney

2009-04-29T22:45:00.000-07:00

On the way home from dance, I had an interesting conversation with Kylie...

ME: Let's practice spelling your middle name... B-R-E..

KYLIE: (Interrupts) I don't have a middle name!

ME: Yes, you do. It is Breanne.

KYLIE: (Looks out window in deep thought)

ME: Kylie BREANNE Peterson

KYLIE: No! Mom that is my trouble name!

ME: Huh?

KYLIE: When I am in trouble you say, 'KYLIE BREANNE PETERSON'!

Please drive safe...

2009-04-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

This past week I have witnessed 2 bad car accidents!

1 of them I had to call a passenger's mom

to let them know that her 17 yr old son was involved in a collision.

So please drive safe out there!

"Blog" ya soon!

Note to self...

2009-04-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

A BJ's Restaurant Crayon in diaper bag

+ (Plus)

The HEAT

= (Equals)

Toys that are ruined

{boo}

"Blog" ya soon!

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, I'll remember to water them...

"Blog"ya soon!

David Larson | U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame | Team USA

2009-04-22T00:48:00.001-07:00

David Larson | U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame | Team USA

David Larson: Please Vote!

At the age of 2, David Larson (Plymouth, Mich.) was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. At age 13, a hip-related problem restricted his running and Larson began using a wheelchair for day-to-day mobility. That’s when he discovered wheelchair racing and made it his goal to become the fastest in the world.

Larson first achieved his goal at the 1992 Paralympic Games. He not only won gold medals in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races in Barcelona, he set three new World Records. At the 1996 Paralympic Games, Larson broke his own World Record for the third time in the 400m, bringing home his fifth gold medal, as well as bronze in the 100m. Throughout his four Paralympic Games, Larson won five Paralympic gold medals and three bronze medals.

Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of two
Competed in four Paralympics, winning five gold and three bronze medals
At his first Paralympic Games in 1988, won bronze in the 100m
In 1992, won Paralympic gold in the 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races, also setting three World Records.
In 1996, won the 400m, breaking his own World Record, and won bronze in the 100m gftr,.

For more info, please click here.

Thanks!
"Blog"-ya soon!

Fancy Fridays

2009-04-17T20:41:00.000-07:00

At a recent restaurant visit with the kids,

Jamie and I noticed..

hmmm..

our kids need a lesson on restaurant etiquette.

Yes, they say thank you to the servers,

Yes, they know how to order food properly,

Yes, they know that tables aren't play structures.

We just believe that as they are getting older,

we should show them how to behave in a formal setting.

We have observed full grown adults that don't know

proper table manners and thought,

"Hey, let's do something fun!"

I mean we already eat dinner together every night

at the table and talk about our day, no TV, etc..

But we needed something extra special

to teach the kids, table manners.

Hmmm.... how should we do it?

Rather than spend a gazillion dollars

for etiquette lessons

or another gazillion dollars

visiting fancy schmancy restaurants

let's set the table and

focus on certain manners each week.

That is when we came up with

{drumroll please}

"FANCY FRIDAYS"!

Here are some pics from

today's initial "Fancy Friday"

(Ignore the paper plate,

I was not in a mood to do dishes.

But I do get a point

for setting out the chargers- hee hee)

Ava loved wiping her face with the corner of the napkin.
...and No, the food wasn't distributed yet.

Lex was eager to show the girls

how to properly place napkins on laps.

"Make sure you open it like this..."

Ky demonstrated a lesson on

what proper posture looks like.

It was funny...

She would slouch and say,

"This ISN'T for Fancy Fridays"

then she would sit up right and say,

"This IS for Fancy Fridays".

Jamie and the girls LOOOOOOVED it!

It was so fun!

Ky insisted that when she drinks,

she must have her pinky up like Fancy Nancy

I came across some

AWESOME sites if you wanted to incorporate

"Fancy Fridays" in your home!

Which BTW, I would loooove to hear all about it!

Have fun and click away...

Certain Behaviors to Combat

Table Manner Quiz

Important Things To Remember

A Video About Table Etiquette

12 Basic Table Manners

There are books too!

"Blog"-ya Soon!

xoxo,

Doreen

Some "un"endorsed love...

2009-04-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

Have you seen ABC's new show, "In The Motherhood"?
Cathartic!

If you click here you can submit your story.

There is also a section where moms can Vblog

to discuss their experiences!

I am sure the writers looooove this!

Helps them with research!
Anyways, check out the shows!
Have fun!
This is definitely a reason
to designate some "Me" Time!
Check the video out below
Hope you enjoy!
xoxo,
Doreen

We had a Hoppity Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T09:17:00.000-07:00

It was a fun filled day with baskets, church, egg coloring, egg hunting, food, desserts, and games!

"Blog"-ya soon!

I meant what I said, and I said what I meant. An elephant is faithful, 100%

2009-04-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

"Blog" ya soon!

Dance is a poem of which each movement is a word

2009-04-10T10:14:00.000-07:00

"Blog" ya soon!

I received a Kreativ Blogger Award! Woo Hoo!

2009-04-06T16:37:00.000-07:00

A huge THANKS to APsychMommy for my:I am honored! THANK YOU!!!

Rules: List 7 things you love and pass the award to 7 others!

SEVEN THINGS I LOVE

(in no particular order):

1) MY FAMILY

2) MY HUSBAND

3) MY FRIENDS

4) CHOCOLATE

5) MY PAST

6) MY PRESENT
7) MY FUTURE

My 7 nominees for this neat Kreativ Blogger Award go to:

Kris @ JesseKate Designs

Chriss & Georgia @ Petit

Jennifer @ Cakewrecks

DaytrippingMom

Kim @ SimplyWrapd

Lolli @ 1momof5

Cascia @ HealthyMoms

Trisha @ Sweet 'n' Sassy Girls

"Blog"ya soon!

Education is not received.... It is achieved!

2009-04-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

The kids got to show off their cars and caravan through the school to a
"drive-in" movie in the auditorium featuring a film about Transportation!
It was one of those... "AWWWW- so cute" moments!
The students had such a great time!
"Blog"-ya soon!

How we celebrated...

2009-04-02T13:52:00.000-07:00

We had a ton of fun celebrating

Alexa's birthday!

She chose to visit the

"Happiest Place on Earth"

so... rather than having a party

we decided to stay

the night at a hotel near the resort.

Some might say "how silly,"

considering how close we live to Disneyland.

But it was so worth it!

We decorated the room (a tradition we have at home is to decorate their room the night before) lounged at the pool, swam, went out to dinner, did the "tourist-y" thing, returned to complete homework, administer breathing treatments, read our sight word readers, and tucked ourselves in for a good night's rest.

The next morning, we gathered our belongings and got ready to go to breakfast! WOAH- were we shocked when a simple breakfast at an Ihop totaled $80!!! Is that the going rate for 3 kids meals and 2 adults? After we recovered from sticker shock, we headed over to Dland.

This year they have this awesome promotion, "Celebrate the Day". It entitles guests entering the park on their birthday a free admission. However, if you are an annual passholders (AP), when you visit the park on your birthday, the AP receives a fun card valued at $69 to spend at the park. So needless to say, Lex was THRILLED!!! We had such a good time. We ate dinner at the Blue Bayou, saw a parade, shopped, meet up with our friends, rode a few rides, and then had to head back home {{BOO}}.

On our way home,

Jamie and I looked at each other

and realized

we were also celebrating

our 10 year anniversary...

as PARENTS

and how much we have

observed, learned, and enjoyed!

GOOD TIMES!!!

Happy Birthday To Our Alexa!!!

2009-04-02T12:43:00.000-07:00

My Daughter

My daughter how you're

growing and changing every day;

Some day you'll be too busy

to dance, and sing, and play.

It seems like only yesterday

I rocked you in my arms;

and though a tiny baby

I was captured by your charms.

Then in the blinking of an eye,

a toddler walked to me,

Those days too are gone now

but oh, how can that be.

Now when I look at you

a little girl I see,

with grown up dreams

and wishes playing make-believe.

Too soon you will be all grown up,

but my pride will never end.

For I'll always be your parent

and I hope your dearest friend

-Anonymous

Tipjunkie!!!

2009-03-31T20:58:00.000-07:00

I am beyond ecstatic right now!!!!

Yesterday...

I was pooped out and my allergies were acting up...
and just hoping for 9pm to roll around, so I can have a little ZZZZzzzzzz time!
Then, my blackberry was chiming away.

So I checked it and...

it was an email from the ever so popular, Laurie Turk,

from TipJunkie

letting me know that I will be featured!

{{THRILLED}}

Right away I emailed my friend, Kelley,

who introduced me to TipJunkie.

I swear she is the best!

Not only is she such a great friend,

mother, teacher, wife...

but she always has the time to keep her friends

posted with fabulous things that she comes across

through blogs, websites, etc.

Love ya K!

Thanks for always inspiring us and being who you are!

Besitos!

Check out the

posting over at CLICK HERE TipJunkie

"Blog" ya soon!

Dance like no one is watching!

2009-03-27T20:03:00.000-07:00

At the girls' school, PTA coordinated a

FABULOUS sock hop!

It was the cutest thing ... EVER!!!

There was a picture area for families, parents were grilling hot dogs, frying fries, and serving drinks. Tables were all around the black and white checkered dance floor. But the faces on these kids' faces... PRICELESS!

Jamie and I had such a good time watching the kids!

Ava thought she was on "Dancing with the Stars" with her partner, Alexa

Ky was "raising the roof" with her gal pal Elizabeth
"Just dance, gonna be okay, da da doo-doo-mmm

Just dance, spin that record babe, da da doo-doo-mmm

Just dance, gonna be okay, d-d-d-danceDance, dance, just, j-j-just dance"
-Lady Gaga

"Blog" ya soon!

Ky lost her first tooth!

2009-03-24T11:15:00.000-07:00

So here is how it all went down last night:

Kylie: {sobbing} My tooth wants to come out! I don't want it to! I like my smile. I will talk funny! I want it to stay there!

Me: Kylie hunny, I understand you are upset. Your smile won't change and no you won 't talk funny. I promise! If it does come out, I am sure the tooth fairy will visit and leave something for you. Maybe money? You never know!

Kylie: Can I give her money so the tooth won't come out?

Me: No, hunny. I am sorry it doesn't work like that.

A half hour later...

Kylie: {partially crying} my tooth came out!

Me: YAY!!! How exciting Kylie! Let's look for the pillow pouch for the tooth fairy. (In linen cabinet looking for pillow pouch)

Kylie to Ava (who is on her potty): Ava, I got my toothie outtie. (No, Ky doesn't have a speech problem. She talks to Ava sometimes with baby talk, thinking Ava will understand better).

Ava: Yay Kylie! I got my poop out! It is a star!

Me: WHAT!!!

The girls just wanted to say "Hi"!

2009-03-22T18:56:00.000-07:00

"Blog" ya soon!

Yummm Yumm Yummm!

2009-03-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

Do you know what this is a view of? Vegas BABY!!!

Jamie and I headed out there to visit family.

While we were there,

we ate at the new M Resort's B Buffet!

So so SOOO good!

First of all, I love the hotel's design!

My eyes were NOT bored :)

But my goodness, this buffet was AMAZING!

The quality was superb

and the price.. a steal

($17.95- includes beer and wine).

"J" headed straight towards the Crab legs..

Can you tell...

The desserts... to die for!

"Blog" ya soon!

Ava got her hair cut!

2009-03-19T18:45:00.000-07:00

"Blog" ya soon!

Happy Saint Patty's Day!

2009-03-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

Our lil' leprechaun appeared singing the cutest song...
"I am looking for a leprechaun, a leprechaun, a leprechaun.
I am looking for a leprechaun

Do you know where he has gone?"

Earlier in the day, Ava and I went on a playdate.
We had a ton of fun!

The entire day was filled with a lot of fun and love!

I hope you had a great Saint Patrick's Day!

One project a week...

2009-03-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you,

but sometimes, I can seem overwhelmed
with the day to day stuff
and feel like I can't keep up with things...
I will come across a closet that needs some maintenance
or some drawers that need to be cleaned out
and I think.. "how the heck will I ever get to it all?"
so I came up with a plan!
The plan is to tackle
1 project a week!
That's all...just one!
I am hoping that since
"organizing" things will be
fresh on my mind,
it will be so much easier
for me to maintain
without feeling overwhelmed!
{{Wish me luck}}

BEFORE

AFTER

"Blog"-Ya Soon!

1:1 Time with Mom

2009-03-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

My kids are growing up way too fast! {BOO}
So we decided to incorporate
a "Day with Mommy" (or Daddy) for each child.
They need those memories.. hubby and I too!

Ya know... visiting places with 3 kids
can be tough if 1 isn't cooperating.
There have been times
we would have to leave the park early
if 1 child was not being
a good friend on the playground
(result: the other 2 are mad).
Or when visiting a museum with 3 in tow,
can be a little of...
"Aww isn't it great? Okay, let's move on to next exhibit"...
thinking "I better move quick before 1 loses interest".

But I don't want them thinking that
they always have to rush things
or that good experiences are short lived moments...
so we did it!
We are on 1:1 time.

Lex had her day on Sunday!
We started with grabbing a treat at Coldstone
(Did you know they now have a low fat cake batter ice cream- yuuuum)

Then we headed to a local theater
that offers series of children's plays (love it)!
"Blog"- ya soon!

Are ya kidding me?

2009-03-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

Saturday was just one of those days
that you have to ask yourself,
"ARE YOU KIDDING ME?"
It started with returning some shoes that did not fit Ava.
I pulled into a spot and as soon as I parked...BUMP!
Some idiot hit my bumper!
Now call it "Luck O' the Irish"
but our little Notre Dame tow hitch cover
took the hit and NOTHING happened to my car (phew).

However, his jalopy ( no.. really, it was, there was a hanger as his antenna and duct tape wrapped around the door, and some sort of cable that was holding his front bumper)
took a good beating.
He busted his radiator!
After checking my rear lights, rear sensors, etc,
I was relieved that there was nothing wrong with the car.
Plus, I don't know why
(and forgive me for placing judgement on a total stranger)
but there was something really odd about him.
I couldn't imagine giving him my personal info to deal with insurance etc... arghhh...

Anyway, there were other minor things that happened
like the OTHER lines in the grocery store moving faster than mine,
hitting all red lights,
my chai latte at Starbucks was not made with nonfat milk (petty- right?), etc..
I was ready to come home and be with the family!
Then, what made my day was coming home to this...
the girls were helping with laundry... {LOVE}

I said to myself.. "Are you kidding me? Too cute!"

Is it wrong that my child is taking shots?

2009-03-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

Evidence #1: Evidence #2

Alright.. hold up!

Before you call Child Protective Services...

This was the only way we were able to get Ava to take her antibiotics!

Ava came down with another one of respiratory outbreaks (no, not a medical term, we just came up with it.... we're not dramatic).

Anyways, Ava FREAKS out when we pull out the medication dispenser. So I started scrambling for another way to administer her meds. Just then, a beam of glowing light, hit my dusty shot glass set. A little ol' shot glass was yelling, "try me.. try me!" and well it worked!

I am hoping some sort of Pavlovian thing (like ALL shot glasses have yucky-ucky medicine in it) will occur when she sees shot glasses. Maybe the shot glasses will freak her out so much that, when she is college, she will steer clear of it (fingers are crossed).

Hey....I promise you there is some strange memory recalling that occurs when it comes to how we had to take medicine. One of our close friends, to this day will not eat bananas because when he was younger, his parents would smash up his meds with bananas. Bananas pies aren't welcome in their home!

"Blog"-ya soon!

Facebook, "twitter"-ing, texting.. Are you a digital mom?

2009-03-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

Okay.. so I was a bit apprehensive to join Facebook! I thought, "Aw.. do I really want to re-connect with certain people I lost touch with?" or "Oh my.. they are going to know TOO much about what is going on with me". Then it took my wise ol' hubbie to remind me.. "Doreen, hunny, you have a BLOG! What is the difference?" In my head, I was conjuring up a gazillion ideas as to why I shouldn't. Then, said "What the heck? I'll do it." {{Ironically, my hub won't do it!}} So I joined.. I am a "Facebook"-er! It is great! I don't "FB" as much as others do. Nor do I fill in the "Doreen Peterson is_________________" part, as I should. {{Well, what would I put, Doreen is on Facebook.. (duh so is everyone else)}}.However there should be a ***WARNING*** when signing up... FB can get addicting the first few days.

Anyway, this morning I was listening to the radio and they said, "2/3 of the population is using Twitter, Facebook, myspace, etc to connect with others!" I don't know how accurate that could be.. does that include impoverished communities? Anyway, it is a sign of the times... I guess!

Then I remembered what was on the TODAY show.. Ya gotta see it! Dooce (http://dooce.com/) was on! (My girlfriend from High School introduced me to her blog-love it). Heather Armstrong is the author of Dooce... and let me tell ya, she is like the Queen Bee of blogs. She came out with a book recently. But anyway, you have to check out this segment that was on...

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

"Blog"- ya soon!