Life with The Walker's...

Ramblings....and Reflecting.

2011-04-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here writing this as I look at the window and it is cloudy and cold, although 2 weeks ago we were sweating outside sitting and swimming in our pool. Then in the last 2 weeks, it has rained, been cloudy, warm and cold. But never fear tomorrow it will be 75 and then Friday and Saturday it will be in the 80's! Don't know what's up with the weird weather and all this switching around drives me crazy. I live for the Seasons and just want 4 seasons! I was born and raised in Sonoma County and am so used to seasonable weather. Bring it back!!!

The kids just went back to school after having Easter break for 2 weeks (Yes- for 2 weeks and Yes- Easter break, but you say, "It's not even close to Easter?") We have a very crazy school calendar which I do not like. I want to enjoy a longer summer with my kiddos and the calendar does not provide that :(. Now that they are back in school, they only have 7 weeks of school left! That's it! I am getting desperate on how I can make time STOP. It is going way too fast. WAY TOO fast. I know I can't do anything about it, but in all reality I am a very sentimental mom and I just want my kids with me. When they have breaks I really actually want them with me, I don't want them to return to school or going to friend's houses. They can all come over here! Gracie loves 4th grade and is doing awesome. She has made honor roll every trimester and she is currently working on her 4th grade Missions Project. Her mission she is studying is San Luis Rey in Oceanside. She has to complete a memorized speech, dress in costume as an Indian Girl, make a poster board and create a Diorama of the San Luis Rey Mission! HELLO! Can you say more work for mom? This is a massive project! Cole is completing kindergarten and loves that he knows how to READ! He is so proud of himself and has gained so much confidence this year. I have been sucking out the remaining hours that remain that I get alone with him since he still only has a half day. Because starting next school year, they are both gone all day :( Officially it will be a new phase.

As the kids are getting older, Robert and I have actually been enjoying a lot more time together. Still not enough, in my opinion, but more that we were used to. We do get some nighttime dates here and there and we get to have lunch dates too! It has been fun! I have such a good time with him after all this time and our love is stronger than ever. That is true commitment. In the wake of hearing of so many breakups, divorces and conflict, Robert and I go back to what we said nearly 13 yrs ago, "a commitment is a commitment, there will be hard times and definite peaks and valleys, but we won't do what we are so used to seeing all around us." Luckily, we also have older couples around us that we have seen make it work and they are mentors for us. We have just done that- we always make sure we make time for each other. Keep it fun, talk, communicate, celebrate, see good friends, relate with others to know you are not alone and create memories!! Hug and kiss (and more!) everyday!!

JOY like I have never experienced

2010-12-03T23:49:00.001-08:00

Seeing these cuties on Christmas morning.

Christmas 2008

Joys

2010-11-30T14:37:00.000-08:00

My friend, Sarah over at http://www.sarahmarkley.com/ put up a wonderful post on her blog today about challenging herself to find daily joys in life all through the month of December. I loved this! Life is about that, isn't it? Looking for what you can be JOYful about. I look around and there are many wonderful things that bring us JOY each day, but we are so used to them and take them for granted, that sometimes we may miss those little things. For today, I have found JOY in being healthy. I have never suffered by being unhealthy, but moving around my house today I was cleaning and organizing with such ease, but I took it for granted. What if I wasn't able to do that and everyday was a struggle? At the least, it would be a very unproductive day, and at the worst I probably wouldn't enjoy waking up each day. I find JOY in my health and vigor. What do you find JOYful?

December

2010-11-29T20:13:00.000-08:00

The month of magic! Lights, music, decorating, holiday outings, bundling up w/ scarves, hats and mittens. The brisk chill just "feels" WINTER! I love it. But I wish it wasn't also the month I turned another year older. I always have to associate the excitement of everything that happens in December with my birthday. I guess I am used to it, however it's not always fun to share my birthday with the month that Jesus was also born. He gets all the glory- I don't. I get Birthday presents wrapped in Christmas wrapping, I get excuses on why people can't get together for my bday because they have Christmas parties to attend or Christmas shopping to do, I get a quick glance and then moving on!! But the one perk I have always delighted in is that I DO get to have my birthday at a magical time, nonetheless! Hustle and Bustle, hustle and bustle! :)

Date Nights

2010-11-23T12:07:00.001-08:00

NOTE: I NEED A DATE NIGHT and I think I can speak for my husband - SO DOES HE!

I didn't realize how important date nights were until AFTER we had kids. Then we had babies and we didn't have anyone to leave our children with, especially as babies. We had to learn to accept that and "ride it out" until they were a little older and when we felt a little more reassured that the kids would be OK and wouldn't die if we left for an evening! AHHH...the joys of first time parents! To say that we thought we were going to lose our minds (without having any breaks or time to be together ALONE w/o kids) for YEARS, is an understatement.

Now that the kids are older we do take date nights. But still not as often as I wish we could. I would be happy with 1 date every 2 weeks. More like I think we NEED one every two weeks. I think all couples do. It's more like once a month or sometimes as long as once EVERY TWO months! That is just ridiculous. About 3 yrs. ago, we actually got the opportunity to get a TRIP AWAY for 6 days! At that point we had been married for 10 yrs. and realized it was our first getaway (except one that was 2 days about 5 yrs. prior) and we WERE IN HEAVEN and realized that we thrived from that trip.

Rule of thumb- Take date nights as often as you CAN! Take a one night getaway every other month and try to take an extended trip (5+ days) once a year!!

Start by taking a Date TONIGHT and on the date pencil on your calendar when your next trip is going to be!!

Take the time.

2010-11-22T22:38:00.000-08:00

Let your children create, express and share. Listen to what is important to them. Express to them how much you love them and that you are listening. Li-sten! Li-sten! They have so much to say and teach us. I learn something everyday from my kiddos....
What did you learn today from them?

Fighting for Rituals.

2010-11-20T16:38:00.000-08:00

Even though both Gracie and Cole are in school, I still feel like I'm not "all the way there." Cole only goes for a half a day and he is home by 12:30. I feel like I am slowly hanging on with only 1 finger and grabbing his finger and grasping for that little short while left of having my baby (or any kids) at home any longer during the day. It's slowly widdling down to the end. Soon they will both be at school all day and then I can accomplish many things that I have wanted to for the last (by then it will be 10 yrs.)!! BUT I will still wish they were home with me. Our routine everyday is picking up Cole and he comes home and eats lunch and we still have some 1 on 1 time together. It still feels like I have a "little one." It's a ritual- it is what I have had for years. Always a little one by my side. To say the least, I will feel sad when it is no longer that way. Even now, I wish for their vacations- because then I have them all to myself. I love their random days off. I even love their EVERY WEEK modified Wednesdays because then I know I get them at 1pm and we have the whole rest of the day together. We do "movie wednesdays" at home where we relax on "hump day" and cuddle together. I'm going to fight for these alone times with them, even when they are teenagers. I'm going to fight for my rituals.

Gratitude

2010-11-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

Lately, everything seems to be flowing.

Gracie has been exceptional in communicating her feelings in a way that is NON-dramatic and effective. Cole has been making us all laugh on a daily basis and finally is really able to laugh at himself; he is not taking everything so seriously.
Bryan has regularly been coming up here to see us all and has done what he says; when he says he will be here at a certain time, he actually HAS been here at that time.
Onyx (despite the fact that she is nearly 14 yrs. old) is really hanging in there. Sometimes you can see her slower pace but in so many ways she still acts like a puppy with her hyperactivity and loveable self.
Brownie just wanders outside but is always only wandering in the backyard waiting for us to show our face so he can come press up against us. Even though he is going to snub us the minute we pay attention.
Robert has lightened his load and is really living in the moment and being present with all of us. He is loving me minute by minute.
I am being more patient and not jumping at the moment that something doesn't go the way I think it should.
These are all things that have happened on a weekly basis and have reminded me on a daily basis WHY I am grateful and that my family is the absolute BEST. I am not taking any of it for granted. (see SIDE NOTE below).

Love the ones you hold closest. Enjoy those seconds, minutes, hours and if you're lucky days, weeks, months and years you have with them. Put down your technological device and stare at her or him. Kiss them, tell them WHY you love them, why you appreciate them, and remember that moment you are in. Who do you love everyday and why?

Side note: Today at my DR. appt., I was relieved, but not surprised, that I am still as healthy as ever and was advised to "keep living my current healthy lifestyle." Another reason to be grateful.

Sometimes you just get your hopes up and POOF, the letdown

2010-11-18T08:41:00.000-08:00

I tend to get really excited when I see things going in a direction that will be good, really good for me or us. I just get right on board. I start to daydream and I really believe that the "change" will take us to a better place then we are. We can finally start to really "plan and get ahead." I believe in the "thing" that I have set my mind to- I believe it is going to happen. I really BELIEVE. Then after the steps that I have put into place are there and I have now focused on the future- things change and don't pan out the way I want or what I thought. I try not to be discouraged or sad or sorry, but the truth is I am. How do I get over these valleys? What have you looked forward to lately and it hasn't happened?

Proud as can be!

2010-11-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

Robert and I attended parent/teacher conferences this week. We were beside ourselves with pride. Our kids have always done well, but when you see it on a consistent basis and their teachers are beaming that they have gone above and beyond- in their school work and as a student with good life skills, it makes me well up with tears. Not for the reflection on me, but for the hope that you have had since the day they were born that they would excel, succeed and love life with a zest for learning and be excited about what's to come and wanting more! It is overwhelming and I am so happy, so thrilled! They, too, are beaming. I just want my kids to dream, believe and persist! That is all I could hope for!

Time sure does fly.

2010-11-16T11:57:00.000-08:00

My first year with the kids at the same school and THEIR first year together. Cole started Kindergarten and Gracie is in 4th grade. I really wish I could freeze time because I have the best kids out there. They are so sweet, loving and thoughtful. I want them to stay little for as long as possible.

Trying very hard to keep up.

2010-11-15T09:31:00.000-08:00

As I look back on my blog, I realize I really do suck at keeping it up. The things I write about are precious to me and I want to keep it going. Everyday something funny happens in our family and I want to log it down. I don't want to forget those times. So I am re-dedicated. I have even set a reminder on my phone so that I will be reminded everyday to at least write something. I know that my kids would love to have this to look back at - along with their scrap booking books. HA! Did I just say scrap booking? Yes, another craft I LOVE to do, but can't find the time for. Gracie is 9 and I am still scrapping her 1st year. :( This is going to change. I found a friend that I hope between the two of us we can get others to plan a monthly night to scrap.
More to come....xo, T

Cancun~pleasing to mind, body and soul.

2009-11-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

When we booked our Cancun trip, I had done all the research. I researched the hurricane season and knew when they typically hit the Cancun peninsula (May-October). Apparently, the week before we got here the weather was beautiful, sunny, warm and clear skies. And apparently, after we are leaving- also the same. While we are here, - cloudy skies, torrential rains, high winds and hurricane warnings. Yes, I said it. Hurricane warnings. It's actually quite comical and romantic in a silly kind of way. We have had so much bonding time as a couple and with our good friends as well. Because yes, we are not all off and running in all different directions. We are only limited to a few activities- the SPA being one of them and long and lazy dinners - talking and laughing. Also, after dinners, sitting under the decks and watching the rain and having drinks. Really, it's an absolutely awesome trip. I haven't even included the small glimpses of the sun we have gotten are bonuses! Robert and I even decided we were going to swim in the rain and enjoy the pool- very romantic. We have had so much fun with Kim and Brian, Shelley and Joe, all of whom are wonderful friends. In a marriage, you definitely need that time alone to bond, talk and relate. I must also say that you need that time with your married couple friends also. It helps you relate with your friends on that level too. We have had so much fun!

Our journey up North, on the way to Cancun!!

2009-11-03T14:14:00.000-08:00

We headed up north today where our awesome family friends (J & J) took care of the kiddos while we escaped for 5 days! On the way, we visited Papa and Nana! It was so much fun! Kids were excited because it was a vacation for them too! Thanks for having us Dad and Marilyn! We were lucky because we got to see them going UP and back Down!!

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Halloween is fun for us because it does signify the start of our fun Fall months ahead. We all love this time of year in our house. Gracie was Spiderella and Cole was Darth Vadar. They were so cute and later we met up with our friends and laughed while the kids bobbed for apples, a first!!

Spiderella and Darth Vadar

All of the neighborhood kids

This was really cool, a neighbor had gotten very creative

Robert and Alex, not sure what there were!

I think this should be Robert's new costume for when he plays?

Kids bobbing for apples with their friends, Abbey and Christopher

Gracie's catch!!

Student of the Month Day and Vocabulary Hat Day

2009-10-30T14:31:00.000-07:00

Gracie received Student of the Month today. She was surprised and acted shy, but she is getting better when recognized in front of a crowd. SOTM students are recognized and get to sit with their parents after the awards presentation and enjoy snacks. They wear their sticker all day so that people can congratulate them. Throughout the month they get interviewed and receive the honor of being the leader in their class, among other little things. Cole and I were very proud of her (Daddy too even though he was unable to be there)! Keep rockin' it Gracie!!

Today was also Vocabulary Hat Day. The students choose a word and then make a hat and draw out the definition of their word. Then they wear it and do a parade through the classrooms to show off their hats. Love Gracie's word! And her beautiful pictures to go along with it!

girl scouts at their annual Halloween party.

2009-10-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

Gracie is in her 4th year of girl scouts. She is 2nd year Brownie and next year she will become a Junior, where she will switch from brown color uniform to green. I remember this when I was her age, although some things have changed: i.e: smaller amount of years per each group. Daisies are now Kinder and 1st, Brownies are 2nd and 3rd grade, Juniors are 4th and 5th- It is going too fast.

Gracie and her buddy, Payton.

cole and school.

2009-10-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

Cole likes school, although he acts shy when asked about it and/or going to and from school. I haven't figured out why though. He feels proud of himself when he does speak about it. He smiles and beams and boasts. AND DOESN'T SAY MUCH...hmmmm. No details, no stories, no nothing. "Come on Cole. I'm your mom, I want to know what you did today, what you learned, who you played with, what your teacher said." He just stares at me and shrugs his shoulders. I guess that's the boy in him. I am so not used to this- I am used to Gracie jabbering away when I pick her up and at the dinner table about what went on at school. And then I get Cole's answer, "Hmm, I don't remember."

Too funny and too typical. I love my boy!

Annual trip to Bates Nut Farm.

2009-10-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

We love going to Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center. We go here every year, in fact I remember taking Gracie when she was 2 months old. The kids look forward to wandering through the patch and finding "just the right" pumpkin. They love going through the corn maze and riding on the tractor ride. It's pure delight for them. There is only one thing I wish I could change- THE WEATHER. It doesn't "feel" right to this Northern California girl to be wandering through patches and taking in all the fall colors with 90+ degree weather! That is just UN-normal! I should NOT be wearing a tank top and shorts and even a few weeks later on Halloween definitely SHOULD not be wearing a tank top. (YES, true story!) I will never adjust to this non-seasonal weather down here. You will never be able to get the Northern California roots OUT -of-the-Girl!!

I am so impressed.

2009-10-15T20:06:00.000-07:00

Gracie has been an artist at heart since I gave her paper and crayons at age 2. She has always preferred to draw out her drawings instead of color in color books. In fact, if you gave her a color book it often would be found sitting in the corner of her room, with pages unfilled with color. It took awhile for us to realize this. But today, it is clear in all that she creates. She has some amazing drawings, sketches and story books completed. She really desires to be an artist. Robert has collected some of the books she has written so he can get them published. Every year since Kindergarten she is recognized in her class for her artistic ability. She clearly gets this from her father's side because it doesn't come from me. I was the child that loved to color- in fact I really was an expert color-er (if that's a word.) I loved filling up the pages with all of the lovely colors. But Gracie, she has been gifted with the ability to create, imagine, draw and bring her imagination to life right on paper. Lucky her.

For the fundraiser at her school, Robert played guitar at a restaurant and Gracie took it upon herself to make the poster to hang up in the entry as you came into the restaurant. She was so proud of her dad. It was amazing! Then after the event the school hung it up in their front office for weeks after. It was the first thing you saw as you entered. We are very proud of her.

Kickoff to Halloween!

2009-10-09T19:50:00.000-07:00

Every October we begin our kickoff to Halloween, but really it officially begins the kickoff to all of the holidays, by going to Disneyland. We love how festive it gets and how excited the kids are for everything to come. We love to make it a family day and escape. This day we spent some time over at Disney's California Adventure. Here are some fun pics from our day.

Trina's playing soccer!!

2009-09-27T12:50:00.000-07:00

Yes, I finally did it- I took up an activity for myself. It has been so fun. Here are some pics of my 1st and 2nd game. It is a co-ed team, we are trying to rally enough ladies so that we can have our own. I'm finding that a lot of women don't want to take the leap. They think they have to have experience and are afraid of the guys. I have learned, you just have to ignore the guys. They are filled with testosterone and the competitive nature in them just doesn't go away!

This is SO fun! I am so happy- I feel so great after my games. Energized and light! Love this and I am trying to recruit my friends to play! My family are great support- they love to come watch and root me on! So cute.
Below is what the kids like to do during the games- there is a pond right next to the field.

Disneyland

2009-09-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

Ever since we have lived in Temecula (10 yrs. this year!), we have for most of the time, had annual passes to Disneyland. This has saved us so much money! So we usually go on spur of the moments and enjoy ourselves for a partial day. Here are some fun times that we had in September there.

Here are the bean bags the kids got for their birthdays. Robert is jealous now because theirs are so big compared to his. Cole also got a basket ball hoop. They were so happy!

Cole turns 5!

2009-09-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

What a milestone this is. I can't believe my youngest has already hit it? Again, where has the time gone? He used to be my sweet and mellow baby/toddler and then he hit 3 and I don't know what happened! He challenges me everyday! Due to the fact that both kids birthdays are within 2 weeks of each other, Cole really has never had his own birthday party. We thought it time he have it! He got to invite 5 friends, Josh, Matthew, Jake, Cole and Christopher, and we went to the Pizza Factory. As you can see, we did have some BIG sisters tag along too!

Cole loved receiving all of his gifts and as you can see, he was thrilled with his skateboard. Cole was smiles the whole time and was just giddy that this whole day was about him. It was so cute! Happy Birthday my boy, welcome to the "whole hand" age!! :)

Cole in Pre-K

2009-09-02T12:41:00.000-07:00

In the middle of last year, Robert and I had decided that we would not be sending Cole to Kindergarten because he wouldn't even be 5 until September. With Gracie, we did send her. Although she thrives academically, given the chance to do it all over again, we would probably have waited for her to start as well. So we grabbed the chance with Cole and so that we didn't have to send him to pre-school again, we decided to put him in a Pre-K program, some do call it Kindergarten and it counts as Kinder if you want it to. Our plan is for him to go there this year and then start Kindergarten at French Valley next Fall. He has been loving it every day and we are so proud at what he has accomplished in such a short period. Go Cole!!

Gracie's 8th Birthday

2009-09-01T09:23:00.000-07:00

I could hardly believe it as I woke up on this day. :( I remember when Gracie was a newborn and people would tell me, "enjoy it now- the time goes by so fast." I used to think, "how can that be?" Especially when I was up at night nursing her or those times she was screaming her head off and I didn't know why. I used to think, "this will be an eternity- there is no way this can go by that fast." THEY were right. I will forever remember how someone once put it: " The days will go by slow, but the years will fly by." This has never left my head and has proven to be dead on.

She is 8 (Halfway to 16!- yikes.) It has flown by and there is not a thing I can do about it. NOT ONE THING.

We decided to have her birthday party on her actual day right after school. Gracie invited 8 kids, hence her age. Plus, a couple of little brothers tagged along. :)

Meghan, Payton, Madison, Abbey, Noel, Christian, Caitlin, and Megan arrived and the party began right outside in our pool.

Gracie was so happy celebrating with all of her friends and the day was plenty hot- well over 100 degrees. That is lovely Temecula for you. We made hot dogs and had chips and I made cupcakes for the occasion.

I can just continue to treasure every day with her and foster our relationship so that no matter what her age is, she still comes to me and appreciates me as her parent and trusts me to guide her in the right direction. I love my girl. She is growing into a kind-hearted, sweet, smart and sensitive girl. We are very proud.

Remembering 9/11

2009-08-31T10:39:00.000-07:00

This day will never be lost in my heart. This was the most senseless thing I have ever experienced in my lifetime. Our nation suffered so greatly and especially those families that were directly affected by the losses that day. Those cowardly acts were just horrific. That day I lay in my bed holding my 10 day old baby girl who had been up for more than half the night: restless and cranky. It was like she "knew" what was coming. I was sleep deprived and anxious. I was a new mother who didn't know what I was doing. But as I sat and watched the ghastly events unfold on T.V., I held the most precious gift I had ever been blessed with. How ironic is that?
Now as Gracie is 8, we were having a discussion today about 9/11. I was explaining it to her because she was seeing a memorial going on as we drove through town tonight. So weird to hear her say, "no Mom, I haven't learned of 9/11 in school, tell me about it." I never thought to tell her about it until now I guess because I never thought she was old enough.

If you go over here http://www.incourage.me/, you will read some amazing stories. This is a very inspirational blog. The blog world is fun.

I LOVE our girl time...

2009-08-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

Look at my girl...she is getting so big. On Sept. 1st she will be 8. I remember so vividly the day, minute, second that she was born. I can't believe she is 8 years old, just about. Where has the time gone? Where are the days that we used to cuddle everyday and she didn't talk back? She didn't ask for something more? She would just love me back and smile, not frown. I am trying to treasure every day as though they are dwindling away. They are in a way- but I have to keep in mind that we will just be transitioning to a new and different stage. It may even be fun. But there are no secrets here- I MISS the old days. She is my baby and always will be.

I am going to do a more detailed post of Gracie (around her bday)- some of my favorite pics!

tagged!

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

The Rules:

A) List 6 unimportant things that make you happy
B) Mention and link to the person that tagged you
C) Tag 6 of your favorite bloggers to play along and comment on their blogs to let them know they have been tagged

So here are mine:

1. having a clean and fresh home
2. no brainer t.v.
3. watching my kids play, swim, etc. from the outside. Meaning I am not involved but I get to watch them from that perspective. It is so calming.
4. pedicures - they make me relaxed
5. sleeping in/having a lazy morning with a movie

i'm tagging YOU-

Kandi McGeary
Amanda Burns
Sarah Markley
Lisa Leonard
Chrissie Rouse
Joceyln Swendsen

Some Recent pics of the kids this Spring

2009-06-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

Gracie is awarded Student of the Month

2009-05-29T18:59:00.000-07:00

........and to top that off....also Student of the Week (High Flyer) all today.

She had no idea- we had to keep this secret from her for about 2 weeks. We even hid in the bathrooms when her class walked into the mulit-purpose room because we knew she would know once she saw us. It worked up until about 5 minutes prior. Every month students are awarded this honor due to their excellent behavior, academics, organization, helpfulness, and all combined -just a good student. We are so proud of Gracie- she has always been a top student, but she has blossomed in 2nd grade. We can't even believe that in less than 2 weeks we will have a 3rd grader. It feels good when your heart is beaming.

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-25T23:54:00.000-07:00

We had been looking forward to Memorial Day Weekend. Any extra day where we are not on a schedule and have to run all around is good- we are going to be swimming, seeing a ball game, hanging out with the kiddos. It's going to be fun.

These times are going to flash by in the blink of an eye and we realize that. Thus, the reason I always have my camera and am trying my best to also try to always be present in the moment. Tough for me, but trying to realize that. The weather is beautiful- in the 80's, the way I like it. None of this 90+ like it is most of the summer- just plain YUCK.

We took some fun pics this weekend. We also had Robert's sister over with her family to BBQ and swim. We don't do that often either. The kids saw their first baseball game, not very interested but it was the 1st one. Cole did say he would like to try that in the fall. We'll see- keeping them in the same sport would be so convenient. But we really want them to try out different things to see what they would like.....I didn't get the opportunity to do that as a kid. We don't ever have them in a crazy amount of things- 2 is our max at a time. They also need to be just kids. But it sure is good when they get a chance to hone in on what they are good at. One of those things needs to be an active/physical sport though. Don't even get me started on how much they have cut physical education out of schools....

It was lots of fun.

Kitty cats & broken down cars

2009-05-22T22:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday the kids and I are driving down the road enjoying our tunes (even though we had a 10 week old kitten in the crate meowing his head off!) You know it was bad when the kids are telling the cat to be quiet. But Brownie didn't listen, he just kept meowing. We had taken him for his 1st series of shots and we were now on our way home. We had about 15 more minutes until we got home when my 1998 Honda CRV with almost 200,000 miles on it suddenly raised the temperature gage to H and no I don't mean almost to H- I mean all the way to H in the red zone. Let me add that my car has been awesome- no real major problems over the last 9 years. With it being a Honda I really just thought it could keep going on for quite a bit longer.

I immediately pulled over and stopped the car and called Robert. As God was watching over us (the kids were scared) Robert happened to only be 5 minutes away from us. Cole looked at me from the back seat with wide eyes and said, "see mom- daddy IS Superman." He wasn't scared one bit. It was completely adorable. We got the car to the gas station and quickly realized that the radiator had popped. Once Robert put that in, we found another, bigger problem- oil and water are mixing= NOT GOOD. Blown head gasket? engine broke? what could it be? Not GOOD- again. So now we are playing musical cars trying to figure out what our next move is. We certainly weren't prepared for a car payment now, since like I said, we thought my great Honda would go awhile longer. Never ahead of the game, only playing catch up...always it seems. And by the way, the kitty cat is still meowing.

Superman

2009-05-17T20:00:00.000-07:00

Cole BELIEVES in his heart of hearts that he IS Superman. I have dropped him at school only to pick him up and he is in his Pajama Top (Superman). Yes, I did a double take. Come to find out- he had layered his t-shirt over his pajama shirt and then at school takes it off to reveal who he really is. This has got to be one of his hysterical moments. I laughed because to me that is funny. I choose my battles and if he wants to do that- then do it. There are plenty of days when he is grown where he won't get to choose what he wears and where he will have to care what he looks like. To me that is cute.

Anyway, our boy believes he is Superman. He also happens to believe that he is actually "all of the boy superheros." Why not? Daddy is.

Cole is Superman from Trina Walker on Vimeo.

Cole the Rocket!

2009-05-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Soccer comes naturally for Cole. He bullets through that field like a bat out of Hell!! It's actually very hilarious. In the U5 division they don't even have goalies. They play 3 on 3 and all run after the ball trying to make it into the opposing goal net. These boys are just darling and just funny.

Cole is either smiling the entire time or he is ferocious and aggressive after that ball. Last game I noticed he will even push the other players to make sure he can get that ball. Afterward I had to show him how to appropriately nudge the players in soccer, not to "push." Boys are so black and white though- because he is like, "mom, I'm just pushing to get the ball." There is nothing more to it then that.

He really seems to enjoy soccer. I was lucky that my friend got action shots of Gracie, but I haven't been able to get any of Cole. So I'll take my camera tomorrow and get some of him in full uniform.

Gracie Singing at Friday Flag Assembly

2009-05-15T20:03:00.001-07:00

Every Friday French Valley Elementary has a Flag Assembly- students are chosen to sing. This is so beautiful.

Gracie singing at Friday Flag Assembly- Feb 09 from Trina Walker on Vimeo.

Gracie and Soccer

2009-05-13T17:16:00.001-07:00

Gracie just doesn't seem to be into her soccer game much this season. In my opinion, I don't think she wants to work too hard. I think it is so important for her to learn the efforts of a "Team." She gets better and better every time she plays, however she can't seem to make that last kick into the Goal and I think that's discouraging to her. We watch her play and the 3 of us shout her name and encourage her the entire game. You can tell she thrives on that because she gets a big grin across her face when she hears us.

I have always known that about Gracie. She desires, needs, craves the approval of her Mom and Dad. Maybe it's because ever since she was born we have complimented her, encouraged her, praised her and loved her up one side from the other. So when she is hearing us call her name and root her on during the game- suddenly her kicks are harder, her running is faster and she gets aggressive and goes after that ball with a BIG smile on her face.

Here are some pics that my friend Amy shot. I love her camera and the action pics she can get with it. I need a new camera!

Cole is playing his very 1st season of soccer.

2009-04-16T22:58:00.001-07:00

This pic was actually Cole's 1st soccer practice. He was really excited. And let me tell you- he is a natural, can you say NA.TUR.AL? He whizes around that soccer field so quickly and with such strength. He seems to love it so far. Let the season begin. We have both if the kids' games on Saturday at the same time. Wish us luck. xoxo

Girl Scouts and the Snow!

2009-04-10T23:14:00.000-07:00

Last month we went to the snow with the Girl Scouts. It was mother and daughters. Lots of fun: playing board games, building snowmen (as you can see in the pic), sledding, walks, talks and bonding time. We had a fabulous time and would you believe it -way TOO hot for March. We had 17 of us in our 2 bedroom condo. HA! Quite funny, yet everything went really smoothly. It was a good time.

Sorry!

2009-03-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

It's a real bummer that I haven't gotten on here in so long. Contrary to what it seems like, I really have good intentions for my blog. I have so many things to share. Simple and sweet things about what we have been up to. I will get to that- I really will.

For now I have been "blog tagged" by Jocelyn. I love reading Joce's blog because she keeps updates on her family and their temporary digs in England!! Cool!! I think she is headed back home this summer-wow that 2 year stint went by fast. I hope desperately we are able to hook up on one of our next trips up north. I think she'll be back by June? Right, Joce?

So for now the "tag" is supposed to be my 4th picture in my 4th folder! Brace yourselves because of all things this one IS BORING~~ but I am following the rules. This is from Early 2005 when our swimming pool was being built in the backyard. Need I say more? Probably not. I'm sorry it wasn't something more exciting-like a cute pic of the kids when they were babies....:)

Now I have to "tag" someone. How about Sarah Markley?

Trying to gain some control.

2009-01-08T14:56:00.000-08:00

Recently, when my Dad was here, Gracie attempted to have a "talk" with him alone. It went like this,
"Papa, isn't there something you can do about your daughter? She always put things on my plate that I just don't like. Certainly because you are her Father, you can control her? Can't you tell her to stop?" Excuse me. Now I definitely know that I have a strong willed and opinionated daughter...BUT did I expect this. Stories like this are hysterical! I loved it.

Gracie and Cole in Theatrical play...

2009-01-05T12:54:00.000-08:00

I don't think this needs a comment. Highlight!

Gracie and Cole doing Theater...Jan 2009 from Trina Walker on Vimeo.

So Ambitious!! Good for you Cole.

2009-01-01T22:33:00.000-08:00

Cole learned how to ride a bike...YES, I said Cole learned to ride a bike!! He is 4. We were taking a walk on a path with some dirt, etc. which made it hard to ride on with training wheels. You could just see his frustration and he was mad that Gracie kept beating him, no matter what he did. So my dad and Robert said, "well what about if we take off your training wheels for you?" Cole looked at them and very meekly said, "now?" It was really funny. So we got home and took them off and he picked up the bike and started riding. He was riding it and doing jumps off the curbs within the hour. A born natural...so incredible!! We were so extremely proud and got some great video. AND I learned how to post it, see below!!

Cole Learning to Ride a Bike- Dec 2008 from Trina Walker on Vimeo.

The Happenings around here....

2008-12-21T19:31:00.000-08:00

I went to get Cole at Pre School on Thursday and he ordinarily is ready to go when he sees me. He is hugging, kissing, talking and all over me basically to get out of there! 5 hours is enough. However, this day he was busy and started crying that I was even there to get him?? Hello? Well, his little classmate had just received a birthday gift of "MONSTER TRUCKS" and they were all down on the ground trying them out. I hadn't seen Cole's face light up like that in awhile. This was exciting and BIG news. He had such a fun time with these trucks. The mom of the classmate was next to me and told me she found these at this little hallmark store, whoever would have known? So where do you think I went that night? I actually had 1 more gift I needed to get for him. Thanks.

Gracie celebrated with her Brownie Troop on Dec. 16th, their Christmas party. We baked and brought appetizers for the girls to pig out on. They had fun..played games and ate! This is her troop. She enjoys this lots. She goes once a week and then we have many outside outings with the troop also.

Some things to learn about me.

2008-12-05T13:34:00.001-08:00

ABC's tagged by Lisa

A. Attached or single? Happily attached.

B. Best friend? Julie, Robert

C. Cake or pie? Cake-chocolate

D. Day of the week? Wednesday

E. Essential item? iphone

F. Favorite color? blue

G. Gummi worms or bears? bears

H. Hometown? Santa Rosa, Ca

I. Favorite Indulgence? anything in the bakery

J. January or July? July

K. Kids? Yes, Cole 4 & Gracie 7

L. Life isn't complete without? Family and good friends

M. Marriage date? August 16th,1998

N. Number of siblings? 3

O. Oranges or apples? apples

P. Phobias? cholesterophobia and falling

Q. Quotes? "Together we may have it all, but we may not always have it all together!"

R. Reasons to smile? my kids & my husband! & good health

S. Season of choice? Fall

T. Tag one person. Mom

U. Unknown fact about me? quieter than I seem.

V. Vultures or parakeets? Parakeets

W. Worst habit? biting my nails! Please help me!

X. X-ray or Ultrasound? ultrasound

Y. Favorite food? (Why is this the question for "y?") mexican

Z. Zodiac sign? Sagitarius

Jamey and Alexandra's Wedding and Reception

2008-12-01T14:47:00.000-08:00

In October, I traveled with the kids up North for Jamey's wedding. They were so amazing and very well behaved and even great travelers! Here are some photos.

The Group.

The kids with Grandpa.

Cole is just exasperated because the cake has not arrived!

Mom and the kids enjoying the festivities.

The kids were very shy to go up to the groom, aka Uncle, but nonetheless they did. They really enjoyed it when they were up there.

The extremely happy couple, Jamey and Alexandra

GG and Gracie

Grandma and Gracie, what a great photo.

New Traditions.

2008-12-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

We have gone to visit Santa EVERY year since Gracie was born. We have a frame that we pile each new picture on top of the previous year's. Every year when we put the new one in, we go through all of the old ones and compare. It is so cool. Right now the bottom one is 2001 and now our newest one, 2008. We have set a tradition and we go every year on the day before Thanksgiving. The kids write their lists and deliver them to Santa personally. This time they were 2 pages each and do you know that Santa sat and read both lists, the whole way through, to the kids. Probably because, oh yeah, there was no line!! It takes 10 minutes tops. Sure beats all of the lines that start piling up right about now, yes today, Dec. 1st!

Your best just keeps getting better.

2008-11-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

Gracie is in her 2nd season of soccer. Every week we have a practice and a game. Every week we are focusing on getting her more "aggressive." She needs to get in there and get that ball, push in there and kick hard and get it away from the opposing team. Up until recently, she would still do a little daydreaming out on the field, not run as fast, not really involve herself to the extent of how much she can. Well lately, she is ready and willing to do better, her BEST is getting better. The last 2 games have been victories for her. Not to mention their team is undefeated. Today on the way, I reminded her to keep her eye on that ball and to stay focused and to be aggressive. I think this teaches her a great lesson, not just in soccer.

She is so proud of herself because she is doing A.MA.ZING. Last week and this week, she has been right in the thick of the game, getting that ball and running and kicking toward their goal. Today she would have had the goal, only the goalie intercepted it, which is OK, because she was "IN the game." I am so proud of her and her accomplishments with her soccer skills. We see her running all over that field with a big smile on her face as she is hearing our "shouts, hollers, and squeals of delights." She has let us know, she really likes it when we root for her. Even Cole is rooting for her. She feels very proud of herself and really and truly enjoys soccer. This is giving her a new kind of self-confidence, playing as a team and knowing they all have their part in the game.

Such Innocents

2008-11-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

"Mommy, are we flying through Heaven?" This is what Gracie asked me when we are a plane recently. It was the cutest phrase I had heard in a long time. My kids come up with the cutest things to say, and the best part? They are serious and very interested. They are inquisitive. They REALLY want to know. Sometimes I am stumped. I don't know what to say or how to respond. So sometimes I pause or don't even answer. I have to think it out. Luckily, they don't pursue me too much. It could be hours later that I come back with an answer or, shamefully, I may not come back with one at all.

I did have an answer for this one. "yes, honey we are. Because that is what Heaven is. A place high up where no one can get us, nothing can happen to us and it is SO, SO beautiful." That seemed to work and I saw her little mind go to work and think about this one. I knew she was trying to picture this in her head.

Bates Nut Farm

2008-10-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

It's beginning to look a lot like ...Fall, in every way but the weather down here in So. Cal. I am yearning for the cooler weather -I am done with 90+ degrees. So to get into the spirit, we got down all of our Fall and Halloween decorations and took the kids on our annual outing to Bates Nut Farm. This is an authentic pumpkin patch/fall farm. It has a Hay Ride, a Corn Maze, vendors, and a "nut" and candy shop with homemade fudge and caramel apples. Lots of fun for all of us. We go here every year.

To start you out right and Wish YOU a Happy Halloween.

Look at those cute little smiles....

I had to add a cute pic of the hubby...

Where did our kiddos go?

Soccer Days

2008-10-07T17:16:00.000-07:00

Gracie really loves Soccer! And as a result, guess what? cole wants to play when he is old enough. Big surprise. 1 more year and Cole can play next fall. So week after week and practice after practice and ultimately game after game, Cole tags along to yet another one of Gracie's activities. He just wants his own thing-and I can't blame him. So he at least makes friends along the way..and now this is what he does during the games....kicks up dirt, plays tags and imagine that, gets down to the nitty gritty and finds bugs, makes dirt piles, who knows what else. This was such a great shot!

Bowling Debut!!!

2008-10-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

Friday night was our family night and we decided to take the kids bowling. They were very intrigued. They were curious. They were nervous in a good way, "what will we do, how do you throw the ball, how do you hold the ball, what does bowling look like?" The questions went on and on-they were EX-CI-TED!

So we got there, we got our lane, our shoes, our balls, and we were good to go. We have not been bowling in probably 8 years. The place looked the same, clean and organized, and very structured. We only had about 40 minutes to play before "the leagues" began, so we needed to give lessons to the kids, play fast and get out. The kids caught on very quickly. They even have what they call "bumpers" now for kids. When they play, these come up on the sides so the kids don't have gutter balls. That was very encouraging and I knew it would help their egos out.

We ended up having A LOT of fun that night, even if it was a short while. It was so great. AND you'll never guess who won: here is the order:
#4 -Me
#3 -Robert
#2 -Gracie
and the winner is.....COLE!

Were Robert and I embarrassed that our kids beat us on their first time bowling? Yes. And as Robert kept reminding me, " but remember Trina, they had bumpers." Oh yes, like that matters. Still our 4 and 7 year old beat us.

Kids so excited and eager to check it out.

Daddy showing of his skills.

Gracie getting the hang of it.

Cole is doing his "stance." Was this hilarious..he actually looked like a PRO bowler. We got video.

Daddy giving Cole a HI-5 for his spare, yes!

After we finished, you can see the very proud smiles on their faces.

Travels...

2008-10-03T12:23:00.000-07:00

1st time the kids saw the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco. They loved it..."big city!" they called it.

Recently, up on our trip to Northern California, we were part of our friend's wedding. This is at the rehearsal dinner. Me and the kiddos. Not the most kid friendly environment, being that it was in a BAR, but we made the best out of it. We laughed and colored in the back room and the kids had fun talking to the other 2 kids that were there. It was fun. Happy Marriage Daniela and Anthony!

Kids after swimming lessons.

2008-09-28T22:42:00.000-07:00

Gracie and Char swimming.

2008-09-28T22:34:00.000-07:00

1st days of school

2008-09-13T00:12:00.000-07:00

We are into the 4th week of school now and it is going pretty well for both of the kids. Cole basically "dismissed" me the 1st day once he looked around his surroundings in Ms. Linda's class and has been fine ever since. He is going 2x a week; which suits us both just fine. We needed the break :)

Gracie enjoys her class, but clearly has had some adjustments this year. She has mentioned many times already that 2nd grade is much harder than 1st, she already doesn't look forward to the homework with as much enthusiasm as she did in 1st grade and has mentioned a few times (as she is waking up) that she doesn't want to go to school. You see, this is NOT like Gracie in any way. She is the one that will try to HIDE the fact that she is sick so she can go to school. So you see, something for me to watch.

Gracie's 7th Birthday

2008-08-31T16:50:00.000-07:00

Gracie had her 1st slumber party-she invited 3 girls. Meghan, Madison and Payton. They had so much fun. Robert took Cole out to the movies and to dinner. The girls showed up at 4pm. We went swimming, ate pizza & cake. opened presents, did a picture frame craft, did a Peppermint Foot Soak and watched Camp Rock. The laughed, screamed, played and were GIRLS. It was so cute. They all got into bed about 9:45. I sat with them and told them a story and laid down until they were asleep-it only took about an hour to get 4 girls to go to sleep. So it wasn't bad. Although between Cole waking up through the night and then the girls got up at 4:30 (yes I am serious), I was pretty tired by Noon on Sunday. It was so successful and everyone got along and really had a BLAST. So cute...This picture is of them all going to sleep on Gracie's floor. I love it. I loved it in black and white too. Happy 7th Birthday Gracie. We love you!

Happy Times

2008-08-06T14:58:00.000-07:00

Sea World with the Thompson's.

At Robert's 40th birthday at Shogun Restaurant.

Robert's SURPRISE party with his friends from the East Coast.

Me with the kids at Gracie's Open House for 1st Grade

Who can I get??? rrrhhhh.......

2008-07-14T22:11:00.000-07:00

Cole loves all of this, monsters, dinosaurs, Darth Vader, you name it!

funny stories.......

2008-07-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

Ok-some funny liners from our kiddos......

Yesterday we all laid down to take naps because the 4th of July was a long day and night. So I knew that if I laid down with each of the kids, they would probably more than likely fall asleep. That would be a big accomplishment in this house, considering I don't remember when either of them took a nap last. So Cole was piece of cake (in a matter of minutes he was out.) So then I went on over to Gracie's bedroom and laid down with her. It was sweet and just took a short while too. I breathed a nice sigh of relief to see them resting peacefully.

Now for the cute parts....
Later last night, Gracie asks me: "Mom, have you ever been sitting/lying next to someone and you just felt lots of love coming out of you?" I said, "of course, you every day." She smiled and said, "well, that is how I felt today when you were laying next to me." Ahhhh.....my heart just melted. It was just the sweetest thing, I love her.

Now for the BOY part......Mr. Cole........

Eating lunch today (when we go out they like to play I SPY as we are eating.) It's just the 3 of us and Cole holds up a potato chip, smiles and says, "boobie." Gracie and I look at him and we don't even know if we are hearing him correctly. We say, "what?" He smiles with that mischievous smile he has, "boobie," he says again. I ask him what he means and grinning ever so proudly, "Mommy, my chip looks like boobies.!" What!! Gracie and I stare at each other and cannot help but laugh hysterically. I feel like I am now not only looking at Robert, but listening to him too!!! How inherent! Unbelievable. I called Robert right away to tell him and of course he was very proud. What a difference-boys and girls. He was just so happy and proud of himself for making Gracie and I laugh. On the way home, we had a talk about how he respects girls and their "boobies." He smiled the entire way home........OMG I have another one in the house!!! Oh dear-Help me!!!!!

Swimming..Swimming..Swimming..

2008-07-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

Gracie loving this intertube-we need to get one.

Cole also loved his. We are low on pool toys-guess I need to get some.

Can you guess what we have been doing this summer? Every morning I have been trying to take the kids outside to swim for 1-2 hours. It has been beautiful here. Last week we had a play date with our neighbors and some other friends at their pool. I hear we are supposed to get back into the triple digits this week-it's not fun when it is that hot. It is almost intolerable to be outside, even in a pool. The kids are EXCELLENT at swimming. I actually am going to put them in advanced swimming lessons later this summer,so they can start to perfect their strokes. I remember the days where I had to be right next to them. I can't believe I am at the point where I can sit in the shade and just watch them. They go everywhere, down deep, diving, jumping, sliding, catching diving sticks and diving rings, etc. They are fish. I have FISH!

Summer Nights

2008-06-25T09:52:00.000-07:00

On Wednesdays, Robert has been playing guitar at Wahoo's Fish Tacos. We just gather on the patio, eat some dinner and watch and listen to Robert play! UNTIL, we are kicked out BY Robert because the kids are going nutty. So we don't get much more than an hour there.

The kids are really enjoying it. This is while they are still doing well. Last week we joined our friends, Niki and Matt and their kids. I REALLY love this picture.

it's hard being 3......

2008-06-23T19:49:00.000-07:00

...to want to be big ( he believes he is as big as daddy and tells me so, "I can do what daddy does-I'm big.", to want to be able to do everything his older sister does, to be able to express himself, to be able to carry a purse...yes, you read that right. I think that is an indicator that he has been with me and Gracie for too long, I think I have him convinced that boys don't carry purses.... :) I just LOVE him so much...

A date out for the girls.

2008-06-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Gracie and I went on a date. We were in need of having some girl time. What she DIDN'T know, was that I was considering surprising her and getting her ears pierced. She really hasn't been dying to get them done, she has only asked a couple of times. I remember I was about her age when I got mine done. It seemed fun and I knew she would be happy. So here we are enjoying our dinner at Islands. I have just asked her if she would like to get her ears pierced. She was very excited and a little nervous.

Here we are at Claire's getting Gracie's ears pierced!!

Smiling Gracie only after a few tears. She was a very brave girl. Notice the cute birthstone earrings.

Smiling girl after getting her frozen yogurt. It was a great night!!

What a Great Poem

2008-06-20T00:40:00.000-07:00

i am: who God made me... i can't change it... only nurture it.
i think: too much about everything... too much and doubt myself
i know: that I love my kids.
i want: to make sure that my kids know i love them and I want for them to be confident; a task that gets harder as the kids grow. They are 4 and 7.
i have: a great family who I just try to enjoy my time with.
i wish: there wasn't such pettiness in the world.
i hate: saying goodbye.
i miss: my Mom, my Grandma, my brother and his family and dear friends
i fear: crazy people who don't think
i feel: emotions! they get the better of me!
i hear: Dragon Tales in the background
i smell: Coconut Body Lotion
i crave: small and thoughtful acts of love.
i search: for consistency and peace
i wonder: who my kids will marry.
i regret: not staying on top of sending cards like I used to & also when I lose my temper with the kids.
i love: my family, my friends and relaxing times.
i ache: when I feel people take what i say wrong.
i care: about the way i am raising my kids. i want them to be strong, caring & sensitive individuals who are confident and believe in themselves.
i always: have a sandwich for lunch-my favorite.
i am not: always sure of what I should do
i believe: in my kids.
i dance: to high school musical 1 & 2, Camp Rock & Hannah Montana. i have a 7 & 4 year old who LOVE these.
i sing: not too great
i cry: not so much anymore; sometimes I am just numb
i don't always: keep my control and composure when it comes to my kids.
i fight: when I believe in something very strongly
i write: because i enjoy expressing myself.
i never: smoke
i listen: because i enjoy the thoughts of others.
i need: to be loved.
i am happy about: everything when it is smooth sailing and I feel NO stress, this is when I notice I am most happy.

pure love...

2008-06-05T23:39:00.001-07:00

I love them BEYOND comprehension. Please look at their adorable faces. They are the 2 best things that have ever happened to me. I just feel love right now....

If you're reading this please make a comment....

2008-06-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

please...I like to know who my audience is!!

DISNEYLAND surprise...

the kids were so happy. We swung through the loop at gracie's school, picked her up, and I said, "guess what-we are going to Disneyland!!" Their mouths dropped open and then turned into huge grins and they started screaming. They were so excited and it was a magical day-for sure. I have decided one thing, I still love roller coasters, but there are 2 I am forever staying off of now. I have officially ridden Space Mountain for the last time. If you haven't been on it since they re-did it, it is much more nauseating. And I will always stay off of the California Screamin' one at Ca. Adventure. Enough is enough. It is not worth it to keep putting myself through that sickness. This was also the 1st time we saw Cole act a little bit on his fear. Any time he got afraid, he immediately started saying he needed to go to the bathroom. Hmmmm....

surprise.surprise.

2008-05-28T10:07:00.000-07:00

gracie has a modified day today (she gets out at 1:15) and Cole and I are picking her up and meeting Robert in Corona and we are SURPRISING them and taking them to Disneyland. I can't wait. They have absolutely NO clue. I think they may pee their pants. I'll post pics tomorrow. I am so excited......ha and I KNOW. What about the kids?

nostalgia

2008-05-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

I know this picture is a little older-but they haven't changed that much. We went in the jacuzzi last night and here they are diving and swimming back and forth to us and showing us their achievements in swimming. It amazed us as we looked at each other in awe as our "babies" are demonstrating their swim strokes. It's a nice feeling. Then we were jerked back to reality as Cole gets out and starts throwing himself into a tantrum (for what-we still don't know) and Gracie is getting out walking across the cement swinging her hips and saying, "look at me." Oh Lord please help us. :)

Brothers

2008-05-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

I thought this was cute.

And so it goes...

2008-05-23T19:45:00.001-07:00

The kids in Gracie's class absolutely LOVED it. They even got up and danced. As you can see, one of Gracie's classmates, Charles, was boogi-ing.........he was so funny! We were hysterically laughing at him. But......as you can look everyone enjoyed every moment and not many were shy.....except our 2!!! Look at their faces...they were paralyzed. They would not sing or dance, let alone crack a smile. I never would have guessed -shyyyyy kids!! But they loved having him there, since it was all they talked about.

Guitar playing.

2008-05-22T09:16:00.000-07:00

Robert is going to play guitar in Gracie's 1st grade class today. The kids and he wrote a song, "Get Up" and they are supposed to sing while he plays. I hope they stick to it. I'll let you know how it goes. It's only supposed to be 73 degrees today. What are you doing today?

Sometimes I get sad.

2008-05-21T10:59:00.000-07:00

I know Gracie and Cole need to grow up. That is part of life. Our job is to give them good solid roots and then they will grow their wings and leave. Our hope is that they grow up strong and want to be close to us and not go too far away. Today as I dropped Gracie off at school and she walks all be herself, as a big girl should, I drive off looking in the rear view mirror at her, and everyday Cole and I drive away saying, "bye Gracie, we love you, we'll miss you today, have fun." But when I am looking through that rear view mirror, it is such a bittersweet feeling I have inside. She is my baby.

Soccer Pics and Cole, not exactly happy.

2008-05-19T17:35:00.000-07:00

Here is Cole, the night of the Father/Daughter dance at Gracie's school (pics to be posted soon). He was extremely upset because he wasn't included in that. He didn't really care that he was going to get to have time with just Mommy and him. He wanted to be attending the dance. Just the thought of being left out was not appealing, I think. We ended up having fun. We put together puzzles, played cars, read books and cuddled. I think he turned out happy, at least I hope.

Gracie is just about done with Soccer for this season. We really think she liked it, considering it was her first time. I, personally, hope she wants to play again in the Fall. I may even play in the Fall. I always knew that soccer was my favorite. I wish I could have played longer when I was a kid. Cole is now very eager to play as soon as he turns 4. More later....

PS. I am in the process of trying to get a video uploaded to my blog. It is not working :( I am getting frustrated..so keep checking back.

This is Dannen.

2008-05-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

Dannen is Josh and Madison's little sister. She is 2. She will hang with just about either group. She is adorable and Cole ADORES her...hmmmm. Gracie has briefed him on that if he marries either Madison or Dannen, it would be cool because she could be in their family. Go figure. But I think Cole would just rather marry Gracie. He doesn't understand that concept yet or doesn't even care to. HA! Nonetheless, he loves Madison, Josh and Dannen. They all get along just great and we are making more and more plans to hang together as families as our kids are getting easier and easier. So cute.

Boys are JUST boys.

2008-05-13T16:42:00.001-07:00

Now, this is the other side of the story. This is Josh and Cole-age 3., Gracie and Madison's brothers. They love being boys and doing "boy" things. The girls would just like them to "stick to the boy things and let them do their girl things." But they have other ideas...they love to run and be physical and really stick close to those girls. Sorry Gracie and Madison, we are trying.

Girls..Girls..Girls

2008-05-13T16:32:00.000-07:00

This is Madison, Gracie's best friend and first friend at age 2. They are so similar in ways that you wouldn't even imagine. It truly is eerie. Niki and I laugh and muse about it. We have many stories to compare and talk about. They are 3 weeks apart in age, but Niki and I both feel as though we have 6 yr olds who THINK they are going on 16. Just look at the picture and imagine....

More from Aruba.

2008-04-27T21:05:00.001-07:00

Final Night-Kim, Brian, Shelley, Joe, Trina and Robert. Flying Fish Bone Restaurant.

More BLUE. Can you even call it that?

Group doing a jeep safari-Kristen, Brett, Julie, Justin, Trina and Robert

Ocean, lucious ocean.

Turquoise waters

Back from Amazing ARUBA

2008-04-23T16:15:00.001-07:00

Well, we didn't know what to expect, how the kids would do, if we knew what to say to each other or how to act like adults with adult friends and guess what......WE DID! And we expected it would be awesome, but let us tell you, even better than we anticipated-it was AMAZINGLY FANTASTIC. And we came home realizing ONE very important thing. This is a must for all marriages. We have realized that we need to take time for ourselves as a couple. We love our kids more than life itself, but unless we have our couple time to be with friends and each other, we are stringing ourselves out to NO END. This has rejuvenated us and inspired us to make this a regular occurrence. Whether it is getting away for one night or a week, we know this will continue to strengthen our marriage and in turn pass it down to our kids. We had so much fun - I will post pics later. Thanks to those that were so great to encourage us. We love you.

Love, Trina and Robert

Daddy and Daughter...

2008-03-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

i love this picture. Hope everyone had a good Easter.

amusing the kids

2008-03-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

Robert played guitar for Gracie's class yesterday...they loved it all. It was so cute. Gracie was extremely shy and wouldn't sing with him. You know it's very funny that she is so shy, considering her parents. And by the way, Cole is shy too!! what a mystery!
Afterwards the kids had fun chasing Robert and tackling him at recess....

Robert played guitar for Gracie's class yesterday...they loved it all. It was so cute. Gracie was extremely shy and wouldn't sing with him. You know it's very funny that she is so shy, considering her parents. And by the way, Cole is shy too!! what a mystery!
Afterwards the kids had fun chasing Robert and tackling him at recess....

happy weekend.

2008-03-08T14:59:00.000-08:00

gracie and cole have bronchitis again. they are on antibiotics but we are going stir crazy so I took them out for haircuts and sandwiches and some picture taking. smiles! And yesterday was Dr. Suess Day at school.

funny story-finally cole and I turned his bedroom into a BIG BOY room. no more baby curtains, no more baby wall hangings, no more baby bed, you get the picture. so anyway he was so excited to show daddy and gracie his room, he could hardly stand it. Cars galore! gracie walked into the room smiling and very happy for cole. She walked all around checking out the place. the one and only thing she said was, "hmmmm." she walked up to his curtains and said very casually, "these are like jeans." and walked away. Of course Cole didn't care what she said-just that she saw it. It was quite funny.

still trying to get well..

2008-03-06T21:12:00.000-08:00

after last week with Cole being so sick for 3 straight days-then we had 1 day break where everyone seemed well. then boom! Down came Gracie and I with it last Sunday flat on our backs. We are still trying to get better. This is the 2nd or 3rd time it has come through our family. It's a rough one. Finally tomorrow is Friday and we can all rest over the weekend-hopefully. I had planned to take them for haircuts and shoe shopping, but now we will be at the DR. for gracie as they suggested she come in for a re-check. But at least we are getting lots of snuggle time...

days at the park...

2008-03-04T22:42:00.001-08:00

when we finally got some sun, I took the kids over to the park. You can see how much fun they had.

catch up.

2008-02-16T23:08:00.000-08:00

many fun times lately and not so fun times.....we celebrated Valentine's Day and that was fun. The kids decorated with cards and pics all over the house. I got Cole a little stuffed doggy that he loves and Gracie a princess door knob holder, which she loves. Plus, Robert did some stuff on his own like brought us girls flowers and Cole chocolate.

We took Robert's mom to Idyllwild today for some snow fun. We made a snowman and snow angels and enjoyed the mountains. Robert and I went on a date last night to see the movie, "P.S. I love you." If you want to see a movie that will move you-go see it.

The not so fun times are the daily struggles of a young family--that is normal. I can honestly say that when Robert and I get some time off on our own, it sure seems like those struggles are easier to tackle (i hope). We just need to re-group and we are realizing that more and more--so we are taking advantage when people want to help us and give us some time alone. So I hope to continue this as a tradition.

This year we will celebrate Robert's 40th birthday (OMG) and our 10 year wedding anniversary (ok it still seems like it was yesterday) and I have worked my b--- off to earn Aruba for BOTH of us and I did it and WELL DESERVED. I could not feel happier that I am able to give him a dream like this--he is in such need of a break and deserves it so very much. I feel this will be a wonderful time for us and we look forward to it. And on top of it, we are getting to experience this trip with many great friends of ours as well. Wow-this will be memorable. We cannot wait and the kids are on board too and know that Mama and Dada need this trip. We love our kids--they just make me smile.

Here we are at Leader Retreat in Dallas, TX

2008-01-27T19:29:00.000-08:00

After brainstorming, learning, training, getting inspired, remembering our passions, we had a fun Texas style night!! Do we look like cowgirls??????

Another Milestone..

2008-01-15T22:43:00.001-08:00

gracie has been waiting for her 1st loose tooth to come out for weeks, I on the other hand have been in denial that it is actually loose. Acknowledging that it is loose would mean two things: the first being that I would have to watch it all over again and endure pain for her and all that blood (this was not on my favorite things to do list as a kid) and secondly, once again I would have to be reminded that I remember THAT tooth growing in, and now thus, our little girl is just getting bigger everyday. Robert helped her get it out finally on Sunday.

a little bit of pain..so sad

the finished product..

now a very happy girl that it is over and she can eat normally again, well I suppose. Another reason she is happy, because she is ecstatic to go to school and show her friends that she, too, can lose teeth :)

2008-01-15T13:32:00.000-08:00

it's very frustrating to be misunderstood, especially from those that you think know you well. Even more frustrating, is when you are trying to voice something and no one is listening. I think everyone needs to be listened to, not just heard. A little bit of what I am feeling today. What about you?

and now here's Gracie!

2008-01-09T16:13:00.001-08:00

...she thoroughly enjoyed herself as well.
Christmas was so special and magical, the lights in their eyes-what a sight!

Some Christmas Pics

2008-01-08T19:44:00.000-08:00

What Santa brought....
and Cole thoroughly enjoying himself....
more to come of Gracie!

Happy 2008!

2008-01-04T14:44:00.000-08:00

we are all snuggled here in our house waiting for the storm to come. i look forward to that....:) What resolutions did everyone make?

Merry Christmas

2007-12-25T22:57:00.000-08:00

hope yours was happy. ours was. we woke up to see the looks on the kids' faces when they saw their new bikes that Santa left for them. It was great..they were really happy and jolly all day. so thankful for the gifts they got. i am going to post pics really soon. time to go to bed, what an exhausting day but FUN.

christmas eve..

2007-12-24T14:47:00.000-08:00

such excitement around here. the kids are running around singing, shouting, you name it. All they can say is "Santa is coming tonight, what do you think he is going to bring?" I absolutely love it all. They are so full of wonderment and awe. It really is thrilling. Gracie and Cole have already drawn some pictures and written some letters for Santa to read while he eats his milk and cookies. It just makes me smile. I love the innocence and will treasure this always. This will be Cole's 1st real strong memory of Christmas and what it is about. He is fully aware this year as he dances around and talks about Santa and "Cismas." hope it is a happy memory for you too....

inspiring

2007-12-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

my friend Kim and I were talking today and she was telling me how she loves the word 'believe.' I said, "me too." So she was my inspiration for my title. Believing in something means everything and will propel you forward. So BELIEVE this season and always....
Merry Christmas

Ice Skating for Mommy's birthday-- a great NEW tradition

2007-12-21T20:54:00.000-08:00

the family at the ice skating rink in downtown san diego...gracie kept saying, "It looks like were in New York City!!" very cute.

Cole in action on the rink...

gracie looking pretty in pink...

FVES 1st Grade Christmas Performance

2007-12-21T20:32:00.000-08:00

Having fun singing....

All of the 1st grade classes christmas caroled for the parents on Thurs. It was absolutely precious.

Festivities of the season...

2007-12-20T14:14:00.000-08:00

Mommy and Gracie striking a "pose"

Daddy loved watching his "princess' on a float...

Cole had to get in on there too...

Gracie on the Brownie float for the Old Town Christmas parade...

2007-12-09T15:23:00.000-08:00

I came across this from last summer..mama and son. That was during his phase where he was constantly "stuck" to me. :)

2007-12-05T10:37:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh...Innocence and Pure Joy...

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving feasts--what a week. Here are the pilgrims and indians enjoying their respective feasts this last week. They had us running...lots to celebrate and enjoy. Hope you have a great T-day...we will.