gabe and radel

Cake Decorating for the Ward Party

2011-12-04T12:18:00.000-08:00

Emma

2011-08-26T16:34:00.000-07:00

Pictures of Emma

birthday July 12th


7/18

7/19

7/28

Emma loves her sisters


Sofie Holding Emma

7/30

First Bottle

8/4

8/5 big belly!

8/11

One Month Old

8/17

First Real Smile

8/23 Sucking her thumb

Moments of Happiness

2011-07-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Remember my blog about being happy?

Daily Moments of Happiness

I really slacked off with it. :)

Oh well!! That's Life!!

I imported all the posts from it onto this blog.

Who needs two blogs anyway??

So I decided to start is up again.

Here are some moments of happiness:

- not being pregnant!! I give thanks for this one

everyday for the past week!

- having a sweet baby girl to take care of

-being able to enjoy the hot weather instead

of feeling like I'm going to die from it :)

-having been able to run my air conditioning

as much as I needed to over the past month

(although Gabe might not like the bill) ;)

-being able to bend over

- healing so well from the C-section

-watching my older girls take such good care

of their new sister (even with a little fighting)

-being able to fit into a pair of normal pants

-having so many friends show me love and support

-starting to feel like my old self again!

Miss Emma

2011-07-17T20:14:00.000-07:00


Last night being pregnant


Comparing our bellies!

Sisters can't wait to see Emma

Just Born

Sofia holding Emma for the first time

Isabel meeting her new sister

Home for the first time

First Bath with lots of help from sisters

Ready for first trip with family

Perfect Mother vs Balanced Mother

2011-07-01T22:33:00.000-07:00

I received this article in an email.

Perfect Mothers vs. Balanced Mothers

I enjoyed reading it so much I wanted to share with you.

I am a perfect mother.
Oh? What? You didn’t know that? I’m surprised since I try so hard to broadcast that fact to everyone. That’s why I rush my kids out the door so we won’t be late. That’s why I spit on my hand and wipe their faces so that they won’t look messy. That’s why I whisper harshly to my children, telling them to behave in public.
And all that trying to “be perfect” only increases my imperfection.
How many of us fall into the trap of believing that we need to be “perfect moms” who raise “perfect children?” That we need to mother a certain way, dress a certain way, keep our homes a certain way and discipline a certain way. That our kids need to behave a certain way, look a certain way and speak a certain way. Those are called puppets, not children. And we behaving like actors, not mothers.

Perfection vs. Balance

The world calls us to be “perfect” mothers, but I believe God calls us to be “balanced” mothers.

A “perfect” mother puts appearance above relationship.
A “balanced” mother sacrifices appearance for relationship.

A “perfect” mother seeks approval from others.
A “balanced” mother seeks approval from God.

A “perfect” mother finds reward in perceived success.
A “balanced” mother’s reward is a peaceful heart, family and home.

A “perfect” mother perpetuates the lie and spreads disillusionment.
A “balanced” mother breaks the lie and spreads hope, truth and inspiration.

Please visit Inspired To Action

to read the full article written by Kat

Power Of Words

2011-06-26T23:03:00.000-07:00

Saw this video on a blog I visit frequently

Modern Molly Mormon

Loved the video so much, I had to share!!

Enjoy!!

Summer Routine

2011-06-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

My friend over at Happy Meets Crazy, wrote about her summer routine and asked what everyone else does. I wrote a long comment for her, but then decided it would be better here. So here is my comment and what we are doing for our summer schedule.

I am not one for schedules and they usually fail me (or I fail them) I think because I make them too complicated, but this summer has been different for us. I knew with a new baby coming (in about three weeks now) I needed to get my kids to help out more and take more responsibility. I made a morning checklist for them to do on their own. This has been great for reminding them to take their meds and for teeth brushing. They can usually get it all done by themselves (my five year old needs help) and then they put an x for each square.

Then I created a daily checklist. This one hangs on the fridge and I mark it off with my initials. So when they get the morning list done, they get one initial. They have seven jobs on their list, including reading time, practice times tables, cleaning up own dishes each meal, ect. My favorite one has been pick up 10 things, and they can do this one more then once. It has been so helpful at getting things put away around the house, without me always picking up after them.

On Sat. night we go count the initials on the chart. For every 15, they earn a dollar and if they have more then the whole 15, the extras carry over to the next week. The first week they earned 2 bucks, and this past week they each earned 3. :) They are very happy to be getting money and then we remind them to pay tithing the next day.

It has worked really well for us so far. Except my five year old is already done with it. :) Oh well, I told her its not an optional thing. Maybe I'll have to start taking things away from her. Anyway, sorry this is so long, but I wanted to share since it has been working so good for us.

That was the whole comment, so you see why it is better here. :) And now I can add even more!

The other part of our summer routine, is I assigned each day an activity. Monday is Library, Tuesday is free movie, ect. We had talked about doing some cooking classes, but that hasn't worked out yet. I want to get them helping make more of the food so after the baby gets here, they can make more things to eat then cold cereal. :) The daily schedule is really flexible for us. We plan the day as it goes, and they can get their checklist done when they want. Unless they ask me for something, then I usually ask them to go do something on the list.

This system has be beneficial in so many ways. It is simple enough for me to stick with. It is getting them to take care of themselves more. They are able to earn money, and also pay tithing. And we are working as a team to keep the house cleaned up. I'm glad I found a way that works for me.

Three for Thursday

2011-06-09T10:29:00.000-07:00

1. Three favorite items of clothing: seeing as how I only fit into about 12 pieces of clothing right now, my options are limited :) my butterfly shirt, my maternity capris, & PJs!

2. Three things in my house that I wish were self-cleaning: the sink/garbage disposal, the tubs, & the garbage cans

3. Three favorite summertime lunches: chicken salad, hot dogs, sandwiches

4. Three things my children say that they picked up from me: "Awesome", "Whatever", & "I think I have trapped emotions"

5. Three good movie recommendations: Dan in Real Life, Center Stage, & Juno

6. Three inexpensive date night ideas: Barnes & Noble, walk around the park, & Netflix movie after kids are in bed

7. Three favorite flowers: Calle Lilly, any Lilly, Ivy plants (I know they don't flower)

8. Three places I'd like to visit: England, Scotland, & church history sites back east

9. Three good habits that I practice: telling my family I love them, being a good listener, taking time for myself

10. Three pictures: these are from Easter 2008

Mother Of All Living

2011-06-08T20:26:00.000-07:00

Genesis 3:20 And Adam called his wife’s name Eve;
because she was the mother of all living.

Credit for Picture

I have pondered the meaning of this scripture before. What does

"mother of all living" really mean? I have found a description I love in a book called "31 Days To Clean."

"All women are life-givers; God made us that way. Life-giving, in its most basic sense, is raising life above the level of mere existence. We give life physically and spiritually, in many forms. We also give life intellectually, socially, and artistically. We as women have been blessed with the very nature of life-giving! At its core, life-giving is all about love – loving others with what God has given us. " Mae, Sarah (2011). 31 Days to Clean - Having a Martha House the Mary Way

I read this paragraph many times over. I love it. I love the line "raising life above the level of mere existence." What an amazing role we as women play and have been given in this earthly journey. I have been trying to understand how I can preform this role better. How I can bring life to my home and family. It is something I am still pondering and coming up with ideas for.

I have come up with a mission statement of sorts to help me define my role better. What I want my life giving to look like in our home. I have been inspired from some blogs I read. The book issues a challenge to: "Identify specific reasons you want to make your home a haven, and then complete a mission statement based on those reasons." So here is mine.

Homemaker Mission Statement

1. My home looks clean and feels inviting

2. I see clear and open spaces everywhere

3. I am teaching my daughters to keep a home and to be organized

4. Everything has a home and everything is in its home

5. My life is a journey. I am a work in progress.
As long as I am making progress,
I am succeeding.

wordless wednesday

2011-06-08T18:43:00.000-07:00

love it when the girls have fun with my camera
never know what will be on there :)

Baby Shower

2011-06-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

The Baby Shower for Emma

Awesome Food!!

Baked French Toast and Fruit

An amazing hostess (with a borrowed baby)

Thank you Jana for all your effort and love!

Wonderful Family

Me with Gabe's sister Luz and cousin Lily

Me with Grandma Olivia and Tia Emma (namesake)

Wonderful Supportive Friends!

A delicious and cute chocolate cake!

And lots of supplies for a new baby!

Thank you to all our friends and family.

We felt so much love and support

from everyone.

Now we are really ready for baby.

Only about five more weeks!!!

Finished Product

2011-06-01T18:20:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my project.

And not a moment too soon,

since tomorrow is the last day

of school for the girls!!

I'm quite pleased with the final product.

Hope their teachers like it. :)

Project & Lunch

2011-05-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

I am attempting to make Thank You gifts

for the teachers who have been wonderful

to my girls this past year.

I am trying to make this:

Thankfully Tip Junkie has a great tutorial.

This is the fabric I chose:

I need to make four of them,

but after getting the measurements

and lines drawn as to where to cut,

I could not find any good scissors.

So a quick trip to the store to get

some fancy new white ones.

And since I was out, I stopped

at Legends to get some yummy lunch.

I ordered a BLT and Onion Rings.

Love it!!

Now that I'm stuffed, I can get back to work.

I'll update with the finished product.

I know- you can't wait to see. :)

Mothering

2011-05-28T11:25:00.000-07:00

I had started to write a post about motherhood and homemaking. I have been getting some good inspiration about these two roles in my life. Then I read this: The Perfect Mom and decided she wrote it way better then I ever could.

So instead I'm just putting up some quotes from the article written by Allyson Reynolds of A Day In The Life

"My personal evolution as a mother has been shaped by more than a few surprises, challenges, disappointments and frustrations. But the “perfect” me of days gone by could never have anticipated the joys and triumphs that have come precisely because of the surprises, challenges, disappointments and frustrations. I have learned over the years that perfectionism is not only unrealistic when mothering young children, it’s downright silly.

As a recovering perfectionist, let me share with you four suggestions for putting out the perfectionist in you.

1. Strive for excellence, not perfection.

2. Practice contentment and gratitude.
3. Be your own kind of mother.
4. Remember that mothering is not about you.

"The definition of mothering is to look after, care for, protect, nurse, and tend. There is nothing in that definition about alphabetically organized spice racks, Disney cruises, multiple degrees or granite counter tops. Have you ever noticed that children don’t care if your middle is mushy or there are cobwebs in the corner? Their needs are very basic and you are at the top of their list.

For me, my quest for perfection is not so much about how my home looks as how it feels. It’s not so much about how I look but about how my kids feel."

The full article is wonderful and I hope you will go over to Power Of Moms to read it. They have lots of great articles there and the whole idea behind this blog is "A Gathering Place for Deliberate Mothers." I love the concept of deliberate mothering and homemaking. I am working on changing my perspective of these roles.

Things I Love

2011-05-25T21:24:00.000-07:00

I really haven't had much to say lately.

So I am copying my awesome sister-in-law.

Here are some things I love:
listed in no particular order ;)

Snickers

Taking a Hot Bath

Fettuccine Alfredo

The Music of Damien Rice

Reading a Good Book
right now I really love self help books

My Children

I almost forgot!
I love cereal!!!
My favorite kind:

Three For Thursday

2011-05-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

Love this blog.

She has a link up called Three For Thursday Click on it if you want to know more. Here are my three's.

Three home improvement projects

1.Getting rid of chicken coop and cleaning up the area. So-over-having-chickens.
2. Getting room ready for baby.
3. Cleaning up the back yard....again.

Three favorite songs

1. Addicted by Kelly Clarkson

2. Hey There Delilah by Plain White T's

3. Accidental Babies by Damien Rice

Three dreadful things I’m really not
looking forward to in the near future

1. Oldest daughter going to
Middle School in the fall

2. Having another C-section

3. Getting through the summer heat

Three most surprising things about giving birth for the first time
1. How big she was, how had she fit
inside of me when she was so big!
2. How emotional my husband was-
Sweetness!
3. Being scared to hold her.

Three easy recipes
1. Taco Soup
2. Crock Pot BBQ Chicken
3. Cold Cereal :)

Three really totally awesome things I did this week that make me a Super Mom/Super Woman
1. Made dinner more then two times
2. Made cookies & shared with friends
3. Kept on going
It's been a hard week, can you tell

Three things I never leave home without
1. my keys
2. my cell phone, except when I forget it
3. my purse, except when I forget it :)
I'm a little forgetful at times huh!

Three favorite movies pre-1970
I had to look this one up since I'm not pre-1970
1. Sound of Music
2. West Side Story
3. Fantasia

Three best skills
1. Listening
2. Learning
3. Reading

Three Pictures

Foam Curlers

2011-05-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

I linked up on Mormon Mommy Blog

Thoughts from Therapy

2011-05-17T20:49:00.000-07:00

I have been in therapy for a few months now. It isn't my first stint there. Actually, I really love therapy and highly recommend it to all. There is something about meeting with someone, talking about your deep stuff, saying anything you want/need to say, knowing they are only there for you, and getting an outside perspective.

Can you tell how much I like it? So I have been thinking about some of the things I have learned there recently. One main thing I have learned, and really felt has made a difference in my life is about being fake. It used to really bother me..... like a ton...... when I felt people where being fake. I want people to be there true selves and this is how I have tried to act and be around everyone. I realize we all put on certain faces around people, wanting to look our best in situations. The people that bother me are the ones who say they are one way and then act a totally different way. Or act nice to your face, but talk about you behind your back. Or are only interested in appearances, how other people see them, and always looking the proper part, never being their true self. I don't know if that all makes sense, but that is the best I can describe it.

For the past few years, I have come to the understanding that when characteristics in other people bother us, it is really just a mirror for ourselves. Meaning, whatever bothers us about other people, really is what bothers us about us. So me being bothered by fakeness is really a mirror for my own fakeness. But for the longest time, I couldn't figure out how I was being fake. I try my hardest to be true to myself, to tell my true thoughts, and be myself no matter the situation or audience. This has gotten me into trouble a few times in my life, but I believe it is better then the alternative.

So how was I being fake? In therapy I came to see that I am actually being fake with myself. I try so hard to be a positive person and deny myself any negative. I didn't want to see any negative emotions or acknowledge past hurts. I didn't want to think about things from my life that would bring me pain. Instead I tried to bury them. I got really good at numbing myself out so I wouldn't have to feel anything negative. I was being fake by pretending that this part of me didn't exist.

This M.O. worked pretty good for me for most of my life. Then, a few years ago, all the stuff buried had enough hiding and wanted to be acknowledged. I was hit by depression. Hit with it like a train. It has taken me these few years to finally see that I was hiding from myself. Not being true to myself. That is why when others are fake it bothers me so much.

The good news is that now that I understand where this came from, inside myself, it doesn't bother me as much when other people act that way. Most of the time I could care less, or I feel sad for them for not having confidence or awareness to be their authentic self. I love that something that bothered me for so long in really not an issue anymore.

As for me and my journey, I am starting to accept my true self more. I am starting to make myself be okay with looking at the negative. I'm not pretending it doesn't exist anymore. I am strong enough to acknowledge it and work through the painful parts. I am letting myself feel. It is harder then I thought it would be, I am really good at numbing out as soon as anything starts to feel bad. I have learned to recognize when this starts to happen though. I can feel my energy level going down, so I know something has triggered me. It is a process and I need to be patient with myself.

The journey I am on is hard, but it is a good one. Coming to know myself better.

Combining Blogs

2011-05-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

I got tired of doing two blogs so I decided to combine the two.

I will be putting my moments of happiness up here.

It was easy to do too.

One more thing simplified.

In other news:
making cookies for my parents,

getting stuff ready for baby shower,

Gabe is growing a pineapple plant...
that should be interesting,

the chickens are gone for good...
to a safe and loving home,
school is winding down,
and I'm just

doing the day to day stuff!

Pretty good huh! :)

Inspired to Action

2011-05-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have joined in a three month challenge called "Maximize Your Morning" put on through the website Inspired to Action. The goal of this challenge is to follow a morning routine that involves prayer, scripture study, exercise and planning your day. They encourage you to wake up before your kids so you are prepared for the day ahead. The Challenge is a morning check in via social media with an accountability group. I posted a comment to my group of 20 women on Facebook this morning. Here is what I wrote:

Good Morning Ladies,
My name is Radel and I am mom to three young ladies with another one due in July. I am excited for this group/challenge in my life since I have let my relationship with the Lord slip as of late. I woke up at 7:50 and it only took me 8 minutes to encourage myself to get out of bed. :) I did some light stretching, some praying and reading. It feels so good to start the day this way, especially on the Sabbath Day. I hope you all had a nice morning too. The rest of my family is still asleep, and I think I will go back and join them. :)

If you would like more info on this challenge or would like to join, I encourage you to click on the link. There are over 800 women that have joined so far. It just started today, May 15, so there is plenty of time to jump in and improve your mornings, which equals improving your day!

Here is a post from the website Inspired to Action and I think it speaks volumes.

What 500 Women Can’t Do

500 women signing a petition can’t get a law passed.

500 women buying a book can’t make it a best seller.

500 women watching a movie can’t make it a hit.

500 women alone can’t make a big impact.

::

500 women waking up early to fall on their knees in prayer for their family.

500 women finding hope and security in Christ’s love for them.

500 women hearing and and responding to their Heavenly Father everyday.

500 women overflowing with the love, grace, courage and hope of God…

Unstoppable.

Baby Emma

2011-05-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

Hope you can see this. :)

Got to see Emma at the ultrasound

this morning. So fun to see her moving

around. They are both profile pictures.
On the top one, the little blob above her
face is her fist. So cute!

And yes, she is still a girl.

Is Mother's Day a Hard Day?

2011-05-06T14:17:00.000-07:00

Do you have a hard time with Mother's Day?

I have heard of some mothers, including my own,

not really loving the whole Mother's Day holiday.

Personally, I enjoy the day quite a bit.

I don't put to much pressure on myself on this day,

I save that for everyday! haha! :)

I do struggle with my own perfectionism, but

I don't usually compare myself to others on this one day.

On Modern Molly Mormon blog

there is an article called:

Not Your Ordinary Mother's Day Post

I really enjoyed reading this post.
The author, Marle, describes her own struggles
with Mother's Day and how she changed her
perspective in order to enjoy it more.

It is so true that we get to decide how we respond
to life. We can change what things mean to us and
the way we will react to them.
We get to choose our own perspective.

We choose at each holiday what to focus on.
Is Easter about Christ or eggs?
Is Christmas about spiritual things or presents?
Does it matter if we say, "I love you," on
Valentine's Day if the rest of the year we forget?

So why not give Mother's Day a new meaning?

Please read the whole article and then tell me what you think.

So Many Moments

2011-05-03T22:45:00.000-07:00

I have so many moments of happiness from the past couple of days. Where do I start? Even though Middle has been in the hospital since Sunday morning, and just got released this afternoon, there have been some good moments.

-getting to spend one on one time with Middle

-getting to spend two nights with Oldest and Youngest, they slept in room so we could be near each other

-Husband having a great job, where he can take two days off to take care of his family

-getting to take milk shakes yesterday & cinnamon rolls today to add some happiness to the little room in the hospital

-having wonderful nurses, that were so sweet to my daughter

-having awesome friends to help take care of all us & send prayers and well wishes our way

-hearing the other two girls pray for their sister and say how much they miss her

-seeing Middle's face when told she could go home (non stop smiling for at least an hour

-watching the sisters reunite with big hugs and even bigger smiles

-having slept great two nights in a row (nothing short of a miracle)

-having our whole family around the dinner table and saying family prayer together this evening

-being with Husband again, feeling his support and being supportive of him, working together

I am filled with such gratitude that she was able to come home and be healthy again. We truly do need opposition in all thing. I could not have had these moments of happiness if she had not been gone for three days. It was such an example of in every bad thing there is an equal measure of goodness. I have seen the goodness today and I'm thankful for it.

May is for Mother's Day

2011-05-03T22:04:00.000-07:00

I found another blog that I am enjoying
and she is doing a giveaway!

She is also doing a great series of blog posts
for Mother's Day for the whole month of May.

I can't wait to read these. I gain such inspiration from other

women in the trenches of motherhood.

So go check it out and enter the giveaway!

Living A Big Story

Impressed With Myself

2011-05-01T22:19:00.000-07:00

I wanted to give up today.

To give in.

I wanted to call off on all my responsibilities.

But I didn't.

I could have, I'm sure the people counting on me

would have managed without me.

But I didn't.

And for that I am impressed with myself.

Middle has been coming down with a cold for a couple of days now.

Actually she is joining the rest of us who have all had a cold.

We have been plugging along, but for her a cold could mean disaster.

She has asthma and has been hospitalized a few times for it.

So when she woke up last night coughing and wheezing,

we knew we were in for a long night.

Then Youngest woke up with a nightmare and fever,

coughing and sniffing. My wonderful husband took care of it,

knowing how hard it is for me to sleep right now.

I ended up sleeping on the couch with Middle.

By 8am we knew the medicine we had was not working and

she needed to go to the ER.

Husband took her because I was scheduled to teach a lesson at church.

A friend asked me to sub for her since she just had a baby.

I agreed because I have been in a good place mentally

and I thought I could handle it.

Who knew our whole house would be getting sick

the night before and falling apart.

I would also need to teach my husbands class.

So I could have called and said I'm not coming,

we are sick, and at the hospital and I can't do it today.

But I did it today.

I went, dragging the semi-healthy kids with me

Youngest stayed with me all day.

I taught the lesson with a raspy voice and sore throat.

(I even had a few people say it was good.)

I threw together a lesson for Husband's class,

luckily only one girl was there so no big deal.

We stayed for half of the main meeting and then I needed a nap.

We were all coughing anyway.

The people around us were probably happy we

left and took our germs with us

Turns out Middle has pneumonia and inflamed lungs.

It is as bad as it sounds. She is staying the night at the
hospital with her wonderful daddy.

I made it through the day.

I didn't give up and I didn't give in.

Happiness.

Mother's Day Giveaway

2011-05-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

I found another blog that I am enjoying
and she is doing a giveaway!

She is also doing a great series of blog posts
for Mother's Day for the whole month of May.

I can't wait to read these. I gain such inspiration from other

women in the trenches of motherhood.

So go check it out and enter the giveaway!

Living A Big Story

Friday!!

2011-04-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

I had lots of happy moments this morning, before the day was even half over. So nice. I'm not feeling great, stuffy nose still here, and didn't sleep much last night, but I'm not sinking into depression. That is a positive right there.

1-went to brunch with a friend
2-was able to help friend print important paper
3-had to laugh when friend's (1year) son dumped about 1000 beads onto the floor, then he was so cute trying to help pick them up, one by one, and put them back in the bag
4-husband sent me a sweet text with lines to our song
5-checked out a blog that I found recently and she wrote me back! this made my morning, I felt so special!

Not only did she write me back she blogged about my request from yesterday. She is writing a personal manifesto, posting a bit of it each day. I love the idea of this. So this was what I wrote to her:

"Love that your Easter Bunny is soooo smart. ;)

I like reading what you write. It feels like a friend.

(Does that make any sense.) Hope you don't think I'm weird.

I think I would like to write my own manifesto and

join in the mayhem, but I seriously wouldn't know

where to start. :) Any ideas? How did you start?"

You might have to read her whole post for this to make sense. And today she wrote me back!

"Radel- Oh thanks! I think that's the nicest thing

anyone has ever said about my writing.

Stay tuned, tomorrow, a "how to" of sorts about

writing a manifesto. Stick around!"

Maybe I'm being silly over the whole thing, but it really made me happy. Like I made a new friend online.

So today her post was Writing your own Manifesto and she gives great instruction on how to do it. So thank you Morgan from Ing Family. You made my day! I will be studying the instructions and putting up my on manifesto some time soon.

Did you have any happy moments today?? Please share!

Playing Catch Up

2011-04-28T17:33:00.000-07:00

So I have missed a few days on here. I have been sick, but also they have been hard days. More then a few tears have been shed. Feeling pretty desperate to find any happiness. If you know depression then you know this feeling well. My friend Cheryl over at Happy meets Crazy describes depression so well.

"Depression leaves it's mark on the home, I've decided.

The physical remnants of an episode could be called cruel
and unusual --towards the house, that is. Friday was spent in
massive pain. I was hurling towards the center of crappiness, and
I spent the morning in tears. All day I prayed that someone
--anyone!--would know I needed them. I look at the house
and I want to crawl inside myself--I look at my children and
I cry more, because I cannot force myself to show them the
attention they deserve. And then I pray some more."

I hope she doesn't mind that I quoted her, but she has a way with words that I just don't have. So her description fits me quite well on some days.

So the last few days have been leaving a mark on me too. I was starting to feel like a failure since I haven't been here, looking for happiness like I said I was going to. I haven't been posting and updating, how sad that it only takes two days for me to feel guilt over this. But then my moment of happiness came.

I remembered that a long time ago I taught myself a lesson. I don't need to feel guilty for falling behind in things like journal writing or scripture reading. I used to just give up if I fell behind my goal or expectation. But now I simply admit falling behind and move on. So here is me doing that. I missed two days...oh well. I start where I am, and I keep doing the best I can do. That statement makes me happy.

I'm hoping for another happiness moment this evening. We are taking the oldest to the Middle School Open House tonight. She will be going there next year. For the past couple of weeks I have had to do a lot of processing. I had some really horrible memories from my middle school years and I was letting it influence my perspective of her going off to middle school. I have gotten to a point where I can be ok that she is excited to go to a new school. I'm not quite excited for her yet, but I am hopeful that tonight will be a good experience for both of us. Wishing myself good luck. :)

Moments for Sunday and Monday

2011-04-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

Sunday Moments of Happiness

Cinnamon Rolls before breakfast have become a tradition for us since our church starts so late this year. And we have added to that tradition. Now we make it time for nail salon. The girls get to pick their colors and sparkles and I paint their little finger and toe nails. It is a fun time for us and it makes me happy to do this for them.

Going for a walk after our Easter dinner with my husband. He ate way to much, so we thought a walk around the block might help him. I love spending time with him, just talking and walking. Keeps me grounded and sane.

Monday Moments of Happiness

Middle daughter saved up her money and bought her own Betta Fish. She was so thrilled and happy about it, I couldn't help but be happy with her.

Oldest daughter is so in love with my belly. She constantly is wanting to feel the baby kick, giving my tummy kisses, and sitting near me so she can have her hand on it. I love that she is so excited and involved with this pregnancy. She is going to make such a good helper for me when the baby comes, not to mention an excellent mother some day.

It is a new week so there is a new challenge: Happy People are Optimistic.
How did my point of view determine the effect an event had on me? What did I do? What was the result?

Yesterday, I spoke to my mom on the phone. She is a long way from home right now and having a hard time. It made me miss her so much and I cried for her. I felt like there was nothing I could do to help her. Today I tried to think of some positive aspect of it. I changed my point of view from saying, "I can't help her" into "What can I do to help her?" With some help from a friend, we came up with some ideas of ways to cheer her up, even though she is so far away. I will be putting a package in the mail tomorrow with some crafts made by her granddaughters and a bucket of uplifting quotes. I hope this will be one of many things I can do to help her and my dad. It made me feel so much better about the situation just by doing something.

I have learned how powerful it is to turn "I can't..." into "How CAN I"!! Try it! :)

Expecting Emma

2011-04-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

Here I am at 27 weeks pregnant.

Feeling huge, and I have three
more months to grow.
The girls are enjoying my
growing belly. They like to blow
rasberries on it. :)

We all can hardly wait for

Emma to get here!

More from Trip

2011-04-23T09:32:00.000-07:00

It's Saturday!

2011-04-23T09:28:00.000-07:00

Moments for Friday, April 22

I had a great day. :) I was able to go walking with my husband and that was nice. He even walked at my slow 7 month pregnant pace. I got a nap. I spent some time with a wonderful friend. I think I even helped her with her some of her own issues. That made me feel happy to be helpful. Then met with some other friends for a new book club on "Secrets of the Millionaire Mind." Love that book. I'm thankful for a lot of happy moments yesterday.

Since today is Saturday, I thought I would post someone elses quote or opinion on happiness. Maybe I'll come up with some snazzy name like "Quote Someone Saturday." .... Okay, maybe not that one. :) I'll work on it.

This article comes from Leslie Householder. She is the same author I mentioned a few days ago.

Now, on to the Law of Polarity. Several weeks ago

I mentioned that there's a way to get really excited

about life when things are falling apart all around

you. By the Law of Polarity we know that contained

within every situation is a good and a bad side to it.

If something appears to be a little bit bad,

then by law it is also just a little bit good.

On the other hand, if something seems

catastrophic, then contained within

the situation is something equally FABULOUS.

The problem? Much of the time, we never bother

looking for the good in a bad situation.

Why is it so important to look for the good?
Because remember, our thoughts shape our future.
If we look for the good, we can be certain we will
find it, and it helps to simply KNOW that good
does exist in it SOMEWHERE. Often it isn't
obvious for a while, but "seek and ye shall
find" is as true a principle here as anywhere.

I think back to some of the most traumatic
experiences in my life, and I can see the wonderful
things that happened, only as a result of the tragedy.

I've been told that pine tree seeds are released

during forest fires. Whatever our 'forest fire' is,

it is releasing the seeds of greatness within us.

Think on THOSE possibilities...
and more good will flow into your life than
you've ever experienced.

I really like this quote. I think it is exactly what I am trying to do with this blog and in my life. I hope you will join me. Share your own moment of happiness. Thanks for reading and sharing. Your comments really make me happy! :)

Moments for April 20 & 21

2011-04-21T22:02:00.000-07:00

So yesterday pretty much stunk! It has taken me all day today process it and be able to find any happy moments. Shall I give you a quick overview of the day so you can see what I mean?
5:30 Gabe goes to work, I wake up to hear him pray (a great part of my day), hard since I had only gotten to sleep at 1:30, so four hours of sleep (this is important)
6:10 middle girl comes in saying she has wet the bed, she needs a bath and is wide awake, only an hour till its time to get up anyway
7:25 wake up other girls to get ready for school
7:30 oldest girl comes to tell me the toilet clogged and flooded the bathroom
7:40-8:20 youngest girl yelling, crying, complaining about how much she hates school & she isn't going
8:25 drop girls off at school, think, "Yes, now they are someone elses problem for a while." Immediately feel GUILT.

Shall I keep going for you? Needless to say such a bad morning, after a bad night of sleep didn't set me up for a great day. My positive, puts up with me husband, tried very hard to see that things could only get better, but I just couldn't see it. But the good news is, and this is one of the happy things about yesterday, is that they didn't get any worse.

Not very long ago, I would have let this morning control the rest of my day, I would have climbed back in bed knowing it would only get worse. Granted I wanted to climb back in bed, and I admit I did take a rather long nap in the afternoon, but I also did some cleaning and some laundry, went to an ortho appt with oldest girl, and tried hard not to spread my negativity.

The best part of the day was when husband came home. He and I went out to dinner without the girls. It was nice to spend some time with him and know he cares so much for me. On the way home, he told me how worried he has been because I have been having a hard time for a couple weeks now. He wanted to know if I would like him to take a day off work so we could spend the day together. Such a gift! I love him for thinking of that and then for doing it. Which leads into today.

Went to bed last night at 10:30 and blessedly slept straight through until 7am. So wonderful to get good sleep. I woke up feeling great! Adding to the fact that husband was home and we woke up together. All the girls woke up happy for the day. Such a difference!

I had a session with my therapist today and husband came too. It was really good for both of us. We talked a lot about how we play roles for each other and what to change. Talked about the cycle of my depression and what he can do to help stop it. We both came away with lots to think and talk about and I felt very blessed.

We spent the rest of the day together running errands, picking up the girls, and doing projects. We had some friends over for dinner which was also very nice. I would be hard pressed to find moments of unhappiness today. :) The whole day was wonderful.

The thing I like about myself today is that I am able to be open with my therapist and honest with myself. I am tired of hiding from the things that are contributing to my depression. I am strong enough to handle being told and looking at the negative side of myself. Part of the reason for my depression is that for to long I have tried to hide any negativity, anger, sadness, ect. and pretend it wasn't a part of me. In so doing, I learned to numb myself in order to cope. It is time to change that, to look at and feel the negative parts of me in order to heal from them. It is time for me to change my self expectations in order to stop creating more anger and sadness. I don't know if this makes any sense, but it does to me.

So I hope you had happy moments today, or an overall happy day! Share!

Moments for April 19

2011-04-20T08:47:00.000-07:00

My husband said an awesome prayer for our family this morning. It made me happy.

After feeling crappy all day, I made a to do list and actually got busy and crossed some of the things off it.

I like that I am usually patient with my girls. Not 100% of the time, but I hope when it counts. They like doing craft projects and I let them even though it makes a big mess. They come up with some pretty pathetic things to complain about, but I listen to them, because that is what they really need. Someone to listen to them. I try to be that person, even when I don't want to be. I try to be there for them as much as I possible can.

Moments for April 18

2011-04-18T22:39:00.000-07:00

Had a overall good day today. That right there is something to be grateful for. I have plenty of moments to choose from today, so I'm just gonna name them instead of a big story for each. :)

My youngest Daughter got ready for Kindergarten without much trouble. A big happy moment for us since she is usually a stinker about it.

Then she gave me a kiss before she got out of the van. So sweet.

I chose not to watch TV this morning (it always sucks me in and I lose track of time.)

I stuck with my plan to clean the back yard.

The back yard looks AWESOME!

Helped my youngest boil eggs for Easter.

My friend did energy work on my middle daughter, to help her. So thankful to have such a great friend.

I helped my oldest with her math homework, after a mini therapy session to calm her down about it. A great moment for me when I could remember how to do and and I actually helped her. The calculator helped us both too. ;)

My previously mentioned friend gave me a great compliment that gave me warm fuzzies. :)

I got the dishes done before hubby came home.

I didn't get cranky while putting the girls to bed tonight.

I got lots of comments on this new blog, makes me happy. :)

Lots of big accomplishments for me. It was a good day.

The thing I like about myself today is that I can work hard when needed. Like cleaning the back yard was a lot of hard work, and slow going with me having to catch my breath. I like that after working hard, I also take time to take care of myself. I think other people, especially women, don't take time for themselves. I try really hard to do this. So after working so hard on the back yard, I pretty much took the rest of the day off. I relaxed and put my feet up the whole afternoon. There were plenty of other chores I could have keep going. But I chose to take care of me, (and the baby growing inside). I like that I don't feel guilty for that, but instead it is a priority to help me be the best I can be.

Trip to New Mexico

2011-04-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the pictures from

our trip to New Mexico.

We went to White Sands to do some sledding!

My one and only ride down the hill.

This is how I spent the rest of the time. :)

Gabe, on the other hand, could not get enough of it. :)

Sorry, no pictures of the kids coming down. I forgot my camera,

so I will have to wait till I get them from my Sis in Law.

Thanks Kay for these pictures. :)

The next day the big kids all went to the fishing pond.

No fish in there, but they had tons of fun getting wet and

squirting with the water guns.

Showers were in order when then got home. ;)

Sofia missed it, cause she was too cranky. She and I

stayed home and took a nice nap.

Another day, some of the kids tried to play baseball.

The grown ups would have joined in, but it was just

to windy. Dust and dirt blowing everywhere.

I was a wonderful trip and we love seeing a different way

of life then the city.

Thanks so much to our friends, the Petersons!

Moments for April 17

2011-04-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

A little late on this post since it is the next day. :) I had another rough day yesterday, slammed my hand in the shower door followed by a minor meltdown. I could feel the depression taking over and me spiralling down. Not a great feeling. But there were still some great moments in the day so that is what I'm focusing on.

As I started to go into irrational mode, my hubby was so supportive. He sat and listened to my cry and vent, trying to make sense of what I was saying in between the sobs. I love that he doesn't try to fix me or judge me. He is just there being supportive in my crazy moments. I feel bad and apologize to him for being this way. I think he may wonder when his wife will be normal again. He just says he loves me no matter what. With his support I was able to see that it wasn't as bad as all that and I didn't need to beat myself up. He let me lay down while he did the dishes and folded the basket of laundry that had been sitting there for days. It turned into a really great moment.

Another great moment came when they came home from church. I stayed home in order to rest. Hubby and the girls came in laughing and so happy. Dad had told them a joke which they let me in on. Then I added to the joke and we were all laughing. It felt so great. I love those moments when everyone is happy and we are laughing together as a family. I really love my family.

The thing I like about myself is my ability to change. For a long time in my life, say the last 32 years, I really believed I couldn't change, it was impossible to change myself. I said, "I can't" a lot because of this belief.

I am so thankful that I have changed and now know it is possible to be in control of my own change.

I saw a perfect example of this yesterday. I know that when things get frustrating, I tend to shut down and block it all out. I don't want to see the negative so I don't. I have learned how unhealthy this is and am trying to change it. Yesterday, I was able to fight the urge to shut down in order to really examine my feelings. It was hard. Fighting your natural habits and trying to create new ones is hard. Changing the way you think is hard, but it is so worth it! I am thankful for the changes I have made and the ones I am making.

Moments for April 16

2011-04-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

Talk about a hard day to start this journey. Not much in the way of great things happened today. I had high hopes of cleaning the backyard and being so productive today. But the heat sucked my energy out of me. I ended up hanging out most of the day. My tummy felt yucky and so squished, my lungs couldn't get enough air all day. Being 7 months pregnant will do that to you. So it was actually a bit of a challenge to find my moments today.

First One: I woke up earlier then expected this morning and I actually felt good. The chickens were making a huge racket so I went to check it out. I didn't get upset by this, which is a good thing. One of the hens had gotten out and the others were yelling at her. Jealous.

I took care of them and headed back inside feeling wide awake. I could have gone back to bed, but I chose to make the most of the quiet time and get the day started on a good note. I even went walking with a friend and that was nice. I felt happy about my choices.

Second One: I finished the book I was reading. It came in the mail yesterday (always fun to get a package) and I started it immediately. The title is "Portal to Genius" by Leslie Householder.

I have read two of her other books, "Jackrabbit Factor"

and "Hidden Treasures: Heaven's Astonishing Help with Your Money Matters".

All three books are so amazing and life changing. They all deal with making the law of attraction work for you, especially from a religious stand point. I highly recommend them to anyone searching to make a difference in any aspect of their life. They are truly inspirational. I recommend getting Portal to Genius first, it includes the Jackrabbit Factor in it. Here is her website. http://www.thoughtsalive.com/

Something I Like About Myself: I thought about this one a lot today. It isn't always the easiest thing to come up with. Today I am grateful that my body is strong enough to carry and grow this child.

I am not the healthiest person, nor in the best shape of my life. So I know this pregnancy could be a lot harder on me. So far my body has handled it pretty well. I like that while I am pregnant I feel my body is strong and amazing.

Book Review: The Happiness Habit

2011-04-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

I've never actually done a book review before,

but I really liked this book. Since this is the main reason I

started this blog, I thought I should start with this book.

Choose the Happiness Habit by Pam Golden is an amazing

book with lots of great ideas. I have had it checked out

from the library for about four weeks now. Still getting lots

out of it and I don't want to return it. :)

From the Mission Happiness statement

at the beginning of the book:

"The search for happiness is one of the most

important issues of our time. Never before

in history has it been so possible yet so absent.

At a time when we could be dancing in the streets,

rejoicing over the incredible accomplishments of

this century, we are having an epidemic of depression.

By taking responsibility for our personal happiness,

we create an environment that has a ripple effect.

Like depression, happiness affects everything it touches.

Start today by choosing the happiness habit

and spreading the joy everywhere you go."

This was not the whole statement, but it gives you a
general idea of the purpose of the book.

The first part is about what real happiness is and
why it is completely our choice. One chapter is
"The Happiness Choice" where she discusses:

Right Thinking (meaning don't believe everything YOU
think) and Right Acting (meaning doing what
you know to be right).

She quotes the book "Learned Optimism" by
Martin Seligman (which is my next book to read)
and tells about Learned helplessness.

I found this concept very interesting. So many
people participate in this learned helplessness
and don't even know it. The goal is to learn
the opposite of this and have hope and happiness.

The second part of the book is actually more like a journal.

Every week you are given a new perspective to develop.

These are taken from 13 characteristics of happy people that

was developed from other books and research.

Each day for a week you are given a specific assignment
to focus on. This is the point I am at in the book, starting
my 13 week journey to build the happiness habit.
The reason for the 90 days: it takes at least 90 days to
change a thought pattern.

So starting tomorrow, I will be following this program.

Each day I will record two moments from the day that

brought me happiness. Then the weekly assignment.

I would love if you would come with me on my journey.

Leave your happiness moment in the comments

and spread the joy around.

Pictures by Olivia

2011-03-16T21:42:00.001-07:00

Olivia likes to take pictures of everyone.
Here are some of her best!

Then Olivia got creative!

Here is Isabel holding Sofia.

And Sofia holding Isabel.

silly sofia

2011-03-16T21:36:00.000-07:00

Sofia wanted to do a makeover!!

Fancy Curled Hair and Fancy Dress!

This is Sofie being Sofie!!

Organizing and De-Cluttering

2011-03-14T16:15:00.001-07:00

So I have joined in this!

I'm a little late since they are on week 10
but I can catch up right? :)

I printed my
52 Weeks of Organizing Checklist
and have filled out 40 weeks worth.
Even better I have already crossed off
four of my projects!

One of the projects was my desk.
I didn't take before pictures,

but here is an after shot.

So clean and lovely!!

Each week Org Junkie asks questions to get
you thinking about your space & clutter.
I'm just gonna start with week 10.

1. What are your hot spot landing zones?

My shelf by the front door. It is only five inches wide,
but boy can it get piled with stuff!
Also my table by the piano, also right when
you come in the front door.
Working on keeping this one clean.

2. Think about ways you can tackle these flat surface
areas to manage the stuff that continues to pile there.

Most of my piles in these places are papers. Would love to
implement this type of system.

or this

So many people have such great ideas!

3. What are you most proud of so far in your
52 weeks journey?
What I posted about today,
my clean desk!

Here's to many more posts of organization
and de-cluttering success!!!

First Day of School

2010-08-10T10:21:00.000-07:00

A better Title would be:
My Babies are Growing Up!!!!!

Waiting for the School Bus.

Showing off new backpacks!

Sofia is off to Kindergarten this year.
She is so excited for all the new things.
She climbed off the bus after school
and exclaimed,
"I LOVE THAT PLACE!!"

They all said they had a good day.
They all like their teachers.

After school we went with some friends
to get ice cream cones.
A good first day of school treat.

It's gonna be a great year!

Update on Chickens!

2010-08-10T10:06:00.001-07:00

So our chickens are getting HUGE!

They have come out of the awkward teenage stage.
All the white feathers have come in.
I think they are pretty.

We think one of them is a boy though.
Making weird noises in the morning.
That would not be good. :(

We would have to get rid of him-
the roosters make way too much noise.

This is the watering pitcher.
It has these cool knobs on the bottom.
The chickens peck at them & it lets out a drop of water.
The old dish, they would step into it and knock it over.
This is way better!

This is the door to the chicken area.
Gabe built the whole thing and it is really cool.

This is where the chickens will lay the eggs.
They should start laying in about 6-8 more weeks.

And here is the palace!!
It was a really big project for Gabe,
but it turned out awesome!!
It still needs to be painted barn red!

Baby Chicks Are Here!!!

2010-06-15T20:41:00.001-07:00

We ordered baby chickens from

MyPetChicken.com

And they arrived this morning!!
We are so excited!!

Here we are still at the post office.
It was so fun to here them peeping.

Bringing them into their new home.
The girls are so in love with them.

Little balls of fluff!!

They get to stay in the garage under
a heat lamp for four weeks.
Then we will have a home ready for them outside.

If you are local and want to come see them, let us know!
We love to spread the joy around. :)

AWESOME WEDNESDAY!!!

2010-05-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Isabel!!!

Eight years ago a chunky little baby girl
joined our family and we have never
been the same since! :)

Isabel adds so much life and happiness
to our home and family.
(turn down your volume, sometimes it is loud)

We love her so much!!

Talent Show starring Olivia Martinez!!

Okay- so she wasn't the "star of the show",
but she was our STAR!

Olivia sang and danced at the
Bear Gulch School Talent Show.

She won Second Place!!!!

Here she is with her teacher Miss Rubino
(who also performed with a bunch of the other teachers!)

With Isabel's birthday and the talent show we had an
AWESOME WEDNESDAY!!!!

Things to Blog About

2010-03-06T15:04:00.000-08:00

I wish I had something really important or intellectual to post about but I just don't. Life is busy, too busy to blog. Cause once you get started where does it end. That is how I'm feeling right now.

There are lots of things I would like to write about, but I'm not sure where to start. Maybe I'll start with a list. Then I can come back to it for topic ideas.

Facebook
Homeschooling vs. Public School
Emotional Freedom Technique
Cash Flow Game
Starting a Business
Forgiveness
Relationship with my kids
Church Callings
Getting out of Debt
The Atonement (cause I have to give a talk)
Potty Training a 4 year old - still
How to help our kids with their problems when we are barely managing our own problems.

hmmm.... if I think of anything else I can add on later right?

Hopefully I will post soon about my thoughts on one of these subjects.

Things That Make Me Happy

2009-12-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

So I like to read blogs. I find a lot of people have
some pretty interesting things to say.
Sometimes I learn new things,
sometimes I get new ideas,
sometimes I get a good laugh.
I've been wanting to start writing more on my blog.

So far I have just used this blog as a way to show
pictures of my cute kids to all the
relatives that live so far away.

But what if I try something new?
Will anyone care what I have to say?
Will what I write be interesting?

We shall see. :)

Ten Things That Make Me Happy

1. When my kids go to bed early.
2. When I make my husband laugh.
3. Doing craft projects with my kids.
4. Snowmen (the cute ones) (I'm picky).
5. Putting on new sock.
6. Rain (and the smell of rain).
7. A clean kitchen table.
8. Taco Bell Chalupas.
9. Knowing I did what I was supposed to do.
10. That I've been married for the same amount of
time I went to school (12 years).

So share, what makes you happy?
(It doesn't have to be 10.)

Awards Ceremony

2009-11-13T09:30:00.000-08:00

The girls both earned awards for the first trimester of school.

They both got Citizenship Award.

Olivia also got an award for Honor Roll.

Olivia runs for Secretary!!!!

2009-09-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

Olivia is in fourth grade this year. She got
the opportunity to run for an office in the
Student Body Presidency. She decided to run
for Secretary. First she had to collect 20 names on
a petition in order to qualify to run.
Then she got to make posters.

After that she had to write a speech to present
in front of the other fourth and fifth graders.
Here she is!

She was very nervous to give her speech, but she
did a great job. The students then went back to class to vote.
Olivia voted for herself. :)

After voting the students went out for recess.
During recess, they announced the winners over the
PA System. "And for secretary the winner is...
OLIVIA MARTINEZ!!!!!"

She was so excited she started screaming.
When I came to pick her up she acted totally normal.
Then she shouted "I WON!"
What a great day!

Update for past 5 months

2009-07-07T22:37:00.001-07:00

In March we had the opportunity to travel to New Mexico
and visit some friends of Gabe's family. We lived on a ranch
in the middle of nowhere for a week. It was awesome! The
girls had a wonderful time being out in nature. It was
a totally different world then ours.

This is all of us on a mountain trail. We to check
for sheep and mountian lions. That is what our friends
do for part of their living. We stopped and built a fire right
there on the trail so we could roast hot dogs and marshmellows.
It is a real cowboy life.

The kids all got to take a turn on a real pony.
Isabel loved it the best.

Sofie and her new freind Whip.

Cousin Leo. The background shows the ranch,
literally in the middle of nowhere. The nearest town
is an hour away.

The last day before we had to say goodbye.

Olivia wanted to try Archery this year. She was a natural
and she really enjoys it. In her first class she made three
bullseyes. The teachers were very impressed.
She will be doing it agian in the fall.

Easter Egg Hunt 2009

Sofia started taking ballet class for the first time.
She loved it at first but then got kinda tired of it.
We took a break from the class and will start again
in the fall. She sure is cute though!!

Trip to Idaho!!!
We were surprised by Scot and Julie's family.

We had lots of fun together. Lots of people crowded into
Grandma and Grandpa's house.
(and only one bathroom!)

Painting bird houses for Grandma. She put
the finished projects on the fence posts.

Painting bricks for Grandma. Each grand child
got to paint their own any way they wanted.
Grandma Rose used them to decorate her rose garden.

Making stuff out of scrap wood from the new fence.
Livi made a squirrel feeder so they would stop eating
all the bird seed from Grandma's bird feeders.
The other kids just had fun pounding nails.

Isabel turns 7!!!
She had a butterfly tea party.

Trip to Disneyland in June with Grandma Rose
who traveled back from Idaho with us and stayed a week.

Fourth of July

A Little Laugh

2009-02-12T23:48:00.000-08:00

That is just what you want to get on Valentine's day!
Taken from Cake Wrecks

And for another laugh

Check this out

TOO FUNNY

Livi Slumber Party (not sleepover)

2009-01-27T18:46:00.001-08:00

For her ninth birthday, Livi wanted a sleepover.
But when she couldn't decide which friends
(the limit is 2) to invite, she changed her mind to
a slumber party minus the sleepover.
So we had nine (how appropriate) girls over for
five hours on Friday night.
CHOAS!

We had pizza for dinner. Then presents.
Followed by a trip to sit in the Hot Tub.
Next the girls each got a Skookie (pizza cookie)
to frost, decorate, and try to eat. Then
we had a craft of making friendship bracelets.
Good idea, much harder to accomplish with nine girls.
The string that came with the kit was impossible.
We found some clear plastic string that worked great.
They were able to watch half a movie,
and then it was time to take them home.
Fun party and I still get to sleep.

Kung Fu

2009-01-27T13:06:00.000-08:00

We signed the older girls up for Kung Fu at the
community center. They started last night and
loved it! It was so fun to watch them. Then
Sofie had to copy and do her version of moves to.
So I took some video of them.

Sofie is first. Turn your volume up because she
makes some great "hut, hut" sounds.

Here is Livi doing the kick moves she learned.

New Blog

2009-01-12T22:40:00.000-08:00

I have created a new blog to start recording
our adventures in homeschooling.
Check it out:

www.martinezacademy.blogspot.com

You can read all about our field trip to
the icy abandoned mines.

Christmas

2009-01-12T22:03:00.001-08:00

I didn't take very many pictures Christmas morning.
I put the camera down and just enjoyed it.
The girls really loved their new bikes that Santa gave them.
We ride them almost every day.

2008-12-23T08:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Family and Friends,

What a wonderful year the Martinez Family has had. We have been so blessed again this past year. Here are the monthly highlights.

In January, Olivia turned eight years old and chose to get baptized. What a great experience for our whole family. Yes, I cried and No, I cannot believe she is eight, almost nine now! Livi is already becoming a young lady and (most of the time) she acts older then her age. She is a wonderful helper to everyone. She loves playing board games and computer games.

In February, we added a puppy to our family. Lusha (pronounced like luscious) was only 6 weeks old when we got her. We had a lot of fun with her at first, but after the newness wore off, we realized that we are not a dog family. In August we found a new home for her with a family that loves her.

In May, Isabel turned six and is as adventurous as ever. She is always looking to put a smile on our faces or snuggle up with somebody to read a book. She is coming along in her reading and writing, and she is super quick with her math skills. She has a lot of allergies and seems to get sick quite often. During this time she shows her testimony by always asking for a blessing from Daddy. She has such a sweet spirit.

In June, Gabe turned 30 something. (I really don’t remember.) He was part of the Juvenile Unit for most of the year. Just recently he switched to an office unit that takes care of security for the movie studios and red carpet events in Hollywood. He hasn’t met any “stars” yet, but he is a lot less stressed out. We are happy that he is in a safer place. He also lost 50 pounds over the first half of the year. He does a workout called Cross Fit. He has recruited quite a few people from the ward to be in his “garage gym” where he trains them. He really enjoys it and the people keep coming back because he is very motivating! He is still the Young Men’s President and does a great job being the leader of the Redhill Special Forces Unit. He is a great example to the boys.

In July, I turned 31 – Holy Cow. Let’s see, we took our annual trip to the beach. The kids liked it (mostly) and Gabe is totally becoming a “surfer dude.” I don’t like the beach much. After that I took the girls to Idaho for a couple of weeks to see our family there. It was fun for them to see their cousins and grandparents. They got to play in the irrigation water in the back yard, just like I did when I was a kid.

In August, I got to go on a retreat up in the mountains. Some friends and I rented a cabin for four days. I got a ton of scrapbooking done and a ton of relaxing, alone time too! After that we started the school year with a Homeschool Program through the Public School District. The girls are doing well, but we are starting to get burned out on it. We really believe homeschooling is the right path for our family. It is a day by day learning process of how to make it work though.

In September, little Miss Sofia turned three!! If only she knew she was three not thirteen. She acts and talks so grown up, sometimes it is scary. She has a very strong spirit and personality! She is really into movies right now and out of nowhere she will start quoting a movie we watched. She already knows how to deliver a punch line. Too cute!! If only we could get her to wear her PJ’s at night, clothes during the day, leave her shoes on for more than five minutes!

In October, Gabe’s sister took us to L.A. to see the Broadway play, “Wicked” and we all loved it!! What a great experience for the girls. We got to wear our fancy dresses and go to a grown up event. Then for Halloween, we had a Ninja, a Woodland Fairy, and a Princess Fairy. We got a ton of candy. Oh yeah and I fractured my foot and had to be in a “boot” for six weeks. What a pain, but made me glad to be healthy and not have any broken bones in our family.

In November, Gabe and I celebrated our eleven year anniversary. His family took care of our girls for two days so week could take a mini trip to San Diego. We had an amazing time there and have decided it should become our way to celebrate every year. We also spent the month “Giving Thanks” for our abundant blessings.

Now it is December, we had planned a quiet month her at home. But when my family from Texas went to Idaho, I decided to load the kids in the van and drive there to see them. It was a fun, crazy, chaotic trip where we were very blessed. After getting back home on the 19^th, we finished decorating our tree and house. I finished Christmas shopping today, and am feeling good about celebrating Jesus’ Birthday. I am feeling peaceful about ending a year and starting on a new one. I have learned so much this past year about the importance of family, friends, and the blessings of the gospel. I am happier then I have been in a very long time, and for that I give thanks. I know that happiness comes from the Lord, who lives and loves us.

Merry Christmas and Love to all!!

If you would like to see pictures check out our family blog: www.gaberadel.blogspot.com

Or email us Radel: gabenradel@gmail.com Gabe: gabenradel@yahoo.com

It Is Good To Be Home

2008-12-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

WARNING: This is a very long post, but a very interesting story. I threw some pictures in just to break it up a little. Enjoy!!

So . . we made an impromtue trip to Idaho to see my family. The map says it is a twelve and a half hour drive straight through. Well, with three little girls and only one adult it is a bit longer. On Dec. 7th, we piled into the van with all our warm clothes, snow suits, boots, snacks, and extra blankets. We drove all the way to Cedar City with no problems. Stayed in a hotel (always fun) and drove the rest of the way on Monday. There was a snow storm over the Salt Lake Valley, but we made it through okay. After two days and 16 hours of driving time we got to Blackfoot, Idaho.

My brother Bret holding his son, Luke.
His other son Noah and cousin Cooper are int he background.

We arrived at my parents house in time for dinner and the girls, who had done so great in the car, were overjoyed to finally be there. My brother's family, that we only get to see once a year, arrived on Wednesday. It was a fun and crazy time. Tthe kids played in the snow almost every day and loved it. They had a slumber party in the living room. We went Christmas Caroling and to church in the snow. After all the fun stuff we were very ready come home. We had planned on leaving on Monday, but there was supposed to be a storm so we decided to wait until Tuesday. Monday morning was clear and bright, but we weren't ready to go. Tuesday morning was cloudy and snowy. But we were packed and ready to go.

Rachel with her decorated sugar cookies.

So with a prayer and my mother stressed out, we left on our journey home. The freeways were clear and it only snowed for about an hour. We made it to Cedar City again and spent the night thinking we would be home the next day. We had a great morning driving on Wednesday, but when we got near Las Vegas the clouds were settling in.

Beka eating her Christmas Tree.

It got really foggy and started to snow. At the edge of Las Vegas it was really snowing. Then we started seeing road signs saying the freeway was closed at Primm from 10am until 2pm for road work. So when we got to Primm, around 12 o'clock, every car had to exit. Little did we know that the freeway would not be opening up agian for 24 hours.

Olivia and Mary putting sprinkles on sugar cookies.

We went into the outlet mall to kill some time. We walked over to a kiosk that was selling crystals, which is Isabel's favorite thing in the world. As we were looking, the lady started asking us about where we had traveled from and where we were going. As I told her we were just trying to get home, I started crying. She warned me that because of the snow, the Cajon Pass might get closed. She gave me a certificate for a free night stay at the hotel, Whiskey Pete's. I thanked her and told her we would be back to buy a crystal.

Logan and Isabel making snowflakes.

After calling Gabe and making the decision to stay, we went back to her kiosk. She told us they had just closed the pass that I had better go get a room. We walked as fast as the four of us could go and got in line for 40 minutes. The girls had a little melt down while waiting in line. We got checked into our free room, then walked to the bathroom which was also at the end of the line. There were probably 150 people in line now trying to get a room. I was so grateful for the lady at the crystal kiosk for her kindness. To get back to our car and lugage I had to walk back through the mall and I saw her agian. I gave her a big hug and told her she was our angel.

Jona (18 months) eating frosting.

After we got settled in our room, we got some games form the toy store and some dinner at the mall. We had a great time playing and hanging out. In the middle of the night my glasses got knocked off the bed stand. Then when I got up to go potty I stepped on them. They broke right in the midddle. Great huh!! The next morning we went to the gas station to get super glue and we also got donuts and chocolate milk for breakfast. There were already cars and trucks lined up to get on the freeway. We ate in our hotel room and I tried, with no luck, to fix my glasses. We didn't have to check out till noon, which was the time they said the freeway would be opening up. We walked around the mall for a long time and did some Christmas shopping.

Almost all the grandkids, Luke and Noah had already left.

Just as we were about to go to our car, the lady from the crystal kiosk came to work. We were able to buy a pink crystal for Isabel for Christmas. We also bought a crytsal angel to hang in our car. I told the lady, whose name is Sharon, that she was our angel. The crystal will remind us of her. She gave us some more advice for places to stay in Victorville in case they closed the pass again before we got there. She was so wonderful, she gave us all a hug and wished us luck and safety.

Cooper and Simon ringing Grandma's bells.

We got settled in our car for a long wait in line to get on the freeway. There where hundreds of cars and semi trucks all in line. After waiting for a little while at the very end of about 100 cars and trucks, without even moving an inch, we decided to drive around and see if they were letting people on yet. We got over near the intersection and cars were getting on the freeway. We found a line and decided to get into it. Just a short wait later we were turning into the intersection leading to the freeway interance. How lucky I thought, until I realized we were in line to get on the north bound freeway. So my shortcut didn't pay off because we had to drive all the way to Jean, NV just 10 minutes away. Then we got off the Northbound freeway and back on the Southbound freeway.

Ellie eating her ice cream cone Christmas Tree.

Over an hour later we were back at Primm and needed a potty break. I tried to get Livi to agree to going potty in the bushes, so we wouldn't have to get off the freeway again, but Livi's OCD was not going to let that happen. We got off and spent another 30 minutes waiting to get back on the freeway. So finally at about 3:30 we counted down to cross over the CA state line. I was crying to hard to say "Welcome to California!"

fGrandma Rose (who hates to cook and bake) making sugar cookies.
Thanks mom for all the fun crafts and goodies to make memories for the kids.

So now it was just a matter of getting over the pass before it got to cold and they closed it again. The traffic was crazy, lots of bottle necking and slow/go. We had to slow down and wait about 20 minutes at the agricultural check point. They just waved us through but there were stopping other cars and trucks. We drove as fast as we could the whole way. The roads were clear in most places and wet in others, but it never got cold enough for ice.

Sofie with her one and only sugar cookie.
I'm lucky I got this picture, because she immediatly
ate all the m&m's and frosting off it.

We got to Victorville and stopped for potty break. We got up and over the pass jsut fine, but coming down all the traffic slowed way down. The rest of the ride home was wonderful. Especially when we started to see things that looked familiar. I was emotional the whole trip home and expected to just burst into tears again as soon as I saw Gabe. The girls and I missed him so much and we were extremely glad to be home. We got home about 7pm, had dinner and we all crashed. The girls fell right asleep and we all slept soooooo good till 6am. Have I said it is good to be home.

As you can see from the pictures, the kids had tons of fun while there with their cousins. It really was a fun trip and well worth it. I just wish it wasn't so hard to travel. And I know my mom will say it so I will say it here. "We just need to live closer!"

more laughs

2008-12-05T09:55:00.000-08:00

Okay I found some more things that make me laugh so I thought I'd share! I do have other things to do with my time then look for funny things on the internet. I just don't want to do them! :)

For Trish

For Gabe

For Mom

For Dad

makes me laugh

2008-11-30T22:10:00.000-08:00

Biography Reports

2008-11-25T19:11:00.000-08:00

Biography Reports by Olivia and Isabel

Olivia chose to report on Sacajawea. It was good because one
of the other students did their report on Lewis and Clark.
We learned a lot of interesting stuff about Sacajawea.

Miss Isabel did her report on Hans Christian Andersen.
She read a book about him and we couldn't believe all
the stories he wrote that we knew. A lot of his stories
have been changed by modern day writers and movie
makers. It was very interesting.

Both of the girls did really well on their reports. They had to give
them in front of the other students and all their parents. I helped
Isabel give hers because she couldn't remember everything. In the
middle, she said something funny and everyone laughed. And can
you imagine, Isabel got shy because they were laughing. Isabel
never acts shy especially from laughing. To cute.

Field Trip to the Museum

2008-11-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

We got to take a field trip with our Homeschool group to the
San Bernadino County Museum. It was really fun for everyone.
The girls got to find out how life might have been in the 1880's.
They got to do laundry.

Sofie is really into fashion lately. She always wants her
purse with her. It is filled with her toys so it is great
to keep her occupied at boring places.

Play with toys from the 1880's.

Use old fashion wood tools and cooking tools.

Practice pumping water to carry.

Another part of the museum was a petting zoo.

After that we went inside to explore. They had a gem stone collection
that Isabel loved. Everyone had a ton a fun.

Haloween

2008-11-23T12:50:00.000-08:00

Our yearly tradition is cutting out pumpkins. This is one of the first
traditions Gabe and I started after we got married. We kinda like it. :)
Well we didn't get to it this year until Halloween morning. It was a busy day.
The girls had fun, as always.

Here is Isabel showing a piece of her inside pumpkin guts. We
got cool scrapers this year and it made the job so much easier.

I'm not sure why she has such a funny face. Livi did her whole pumpkin
from start to finish, even the cutting part. Her's is the alien.Sofia's cat cut out by daddy.

Olivia's alien.

Here they are in all their glory. Isabel did the girl vampire.
Mine is a scarecrow. Gabe did the skull with flames.

These are a craft that Livi and Isabel did for school.
We thought they turned out really cool. They also made skeletons
out of Q-Tips. Very fun stuff.

Now for costums. Isabel is a woodland fairy.

Olivia is a ninja.

Sofia is a cute fairy who did her own face make up.

This is Lorenzo (cousin) who is a purple octupuse. Grandma Olivia
made the costume from scratch, it was so cute.

All the kids right before trick-or-treating.

And since I NEVER dress up, I don't know why I did this year,
here is the picture for proof. I was the bride of frankenstien. That
makes Gabe Frankenstien. Ha Ha. You can't really see it but I even
wore fake eye lashes. The girls thought it was pretty great. Now I
remember why I did it, the costume was on sale and the girls begged me.

July to November

2008-11-20T09:27:00.001-08:00

Okay here is our life in pictures over the last five months. It isn't an account of everything that has happened but it is something. Okay after looking through my pictures I have been really bad about taking pictures. Here is the girls doing homemade face paints.

We were able to get rid of the dog and give her to a family that
really loves her and takes better care of her.

We got family pictures taken in the studio and them Livi and Isabel
had their own studio picture session. We decorated our class room as
you can see behind Isabel.

The girls are into making pillows. They turned this homemade pillow
into a giant pin cushion. The are doing pretty good on the sewing machine.

Okay, Sofie is kicking me off to watch her movie. I promise I will
get back on here soon to post pictures about halloween and our
trip to the Museum.

Beach Trip

2008-07-09T22:24:00.001-07:00

So we took our "annual" trip to the beach. That is how often I like going.
I hate sand.
I put sunsreen on and stayed in the shade as much as possible.
I got a killer burn on the back of my calves anyway.
It has been more than two weeks and it is still red and pealing.
I don't like the beach where it feels muggy
or the sand that gets EVERYWHERE
or the salty ocean water.

But the kids had a blast
and for them I will make the trip at least once a year.
It was a lot of fun. Especially since we went with friends.

Livi's BFF (if she knew what that meant) Baylie

And her brother Marcus.

And cutie patootie Courtney Beans.

This is Bobbie trying to help Sofie get wrapped up and warm after we
had been at the beach about 15 minutes.
Sofie takes after me and also hates the sand.
She couldn't stand to have it on her or feel it on her toes.
So what did she do the rest of the time?

That's right, she fell asleep
and slept until just about time to go.
Nice that I didn't have to worry about her running into the water.

Isabel, always the one to look for treasure,
found about 30 seashells she had to take home.

Olivia and Isabel digging in the sand.
They did this for about half the time coming
up with all sorts of things to build.

The girls drug this huge mess of seaweed out of the water.
They were so proud!!

And of course, the whole reason for the beach trip,
so Gabe could try out his new surf board and his new wet suit.

Our friend Dan, in the background,
said the surfing that day was better then Hawaii.
Gabe had a hard time getting up (probably cause
it was a new board). We had a lot of fun watching him.
He really enjoys surfing. Dan had a kids board and Gabe was
able to take the girls out on it and let them give it a little try.
Livi wanted off immediatly.
Isabel stayed on for the ride, a wave caught her and she did a head
dive into the water. When she came up, Gabe was expecting her
to be crying. But what does she say,
"That was so cool, I want to do it again!!!"
That girl is always full of surprises!!

So all in all a good trip to the beach.
We went to Carl's Jr. for late lunch.
Then sat in traffic all the way home.
Bye ocean, see you again next year!!!!!

Apology for being gone!

2008-07-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

I have been bad at blogging.
So sue me!! Here are some pictures to show
what has been going on at the Martinez house.

March we went Bowling.

Easter Egg hunt in April.

May was Isabel's Birthday.
I cannot find pictures for it anywhere.

It is the beginning of Summer so
Olivia chopped off her hair!!
It is such a cute cut for her.

June, Gabe's birthday.
We got pictures taken for him.

My good friend Trish took the pictures of us girls
since the picture Gabe has in his locker at work
is from when Isabel was 6 months old.
It was time for new ones.
She did a great job and has a business doing it called
Swift Shutter.

Thanks Trisha!!
You can see some more of the pix on her site.

Introducing Lusha

2008-03-11T15:46:00.001-07:00

Livi Cuts Her Hair

2008-02-28T13:32:00.000-08:00

Before

and After

Olivia's Baptism

2008-02-28T13:23:00.001-08:00

Here are som pix from Livi's big day. The last one is blurry, I wish it would have turned out better. It is Sofia walking between her two grandmas.

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T09:16:00.000-08:00

I've been tagged!

2007-12-19T09:19:00.000-08:00

Okay I'm not exactly sure how this works,
but thanks to my friend Stephanie,
I've been tagged to tell about my wonderful husband.

1. What is his name? Gabriel Edward Martinez

2. How long have you been married?
10 years last month 11/22/97

3. How long did you date? 1 year 1 month

4. Who eats more? He does usually unless it is sweets then I do!

5. Who said 'I love you' first? He did, we had to talk on the phone because we lived so far apart. He said it and I was shocked, but I said it back. Now I know he says it to
everyone he talks to on the phone. "Love you, bye!"

6. Who sings better? I think me, but only because
I'm not afraid to sing.
I have heard him sing and he has a great voice.
He even serenaded me on our anniversary.

7. Who is taller? We are exactly the same height. Although he
has a longer torso and I have longer legs. Funny huh.

8. Whose temper is worse?
I think mine is quicker but his is more intense.

9. Who does the laundry? Usually me unless I get behind and he is running out of clothes. He usually helps me
fold them too. I hate folding socks.

10. Who does the dishes? I usually do, but he will do them on his days off. Have I told yo how much we
LOVE having a dish washer!!!

11. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? (Looking at it)
I do, I always have because that is always
the side closer to the door. But that isn't
to say he never gets up with the
kids in the middle of the night. :)

12. Who does the cooking? Both of us, he is
probably a better cook, but I'm learning.
I actually made chicken noodle soup from scratch
the other day when he came home sick. A first for me!

13. Who is more stubborn? It depends on what it is about.
Probably me though.

14. Who proposed? He did!
I told me he didn't have a ring yet, but he was tricking me.
He had it and surprised me. He wrote me the
sweetest letter and proposed at the Bountiful Temple.

15. Who is more likely to admit when they are wrong?
We are both always right.
We just agree to disagree! :)

16. Whose parents do you see the most?
The first five years of marriage mine,
then we moved to CA and we see his every week now.

17. Who pays the bills? We both try to stay
involved with money and bills,
but somehow we still pay them late. Go figure!

18. Who wears the pants in the family?
Definetly Gabe, because he knows how to treat me right.
That way we both get what we want. :)

19. Why do you love your husband? In his own words,
"What's not to love?" He completes me!!!

Now I tag Trisha, Rachel, and Emilee!!

2007-12-18T10:58:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone.
I got really lazy this yea and I'm not sending out cards.
Here is the letter I would have sent though.
Enjoy!

Happy Holidays!

Hello friends and family! Hope you all have had a wonderful year and are having a great holiday season. Here at the Martinez home it has been a good year. At the end of 2006 we were able to purchase a home in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, we love it! We have an awesome ward and have made so many wonderful friends this year. And best of all, our complex has a swimming pool! We spent most of our summer swimming! But I’m jumping ahead.

In January, Olivia turned 7 and had her first all girl party. Very fun! Olivia started Second grade this year and loves it! She gets along well with everyone and is a great student. She really likes to learn, which makes it easier for me come homework time. She is preparing to get baptized in February. Gabe and I can’t believe she is that old already!!

In March, Gabe got called to be the Young Men’s president and I was released from my calling as 2^nd Counselor in Relief Society. That was a good thing for me. Gabe is so good at his calling; he truly loves the young men. He is a good leader and a good friend to them. At work he is in the Juvenile Unit and he is trying to become a Detective. He likes his job most days.

In May we celebrated Isabel turning 5 with a Strawberry Shortcake birthday party. She is getting so big and she was incredibly excited to start Kindergarten. She goes to the afternoon session, which suits her fine since she is not a morning person. After only a few months in school, she is already beginning to read. It is fun to watch her get excited about learning.

In July, the girls and I were able to visit family in Idaho for two weeks. We had tons of fun there with their cousins from Texas. It was a very fun trip except for flying alone with three kids can be very stressful! In September, Gabe and I took a trip just for us to Mexico to celebrate our 10 year anniversary (which is actually in November). It was a wonderful time that we will treasure.

When we got back, it was time for Sofia’s Tinker Bell party. She is the big 2!! And oh, what a handful. Usually she is the sweetest girl, always saying “Please” and “Thank you.” She is very helpful and we have fun while the big girls are at school. But watch out if she doesn’t get her way! She can throw a fantastic tantrum. Then she loves the word “NO!” She is at that age where she does so many funny things that make us all laugh. The three girls get along so well! At least half of the time. The other half they are fighting and bugging each other like sisters do.

Oh I almost forgot about me. This has been a challenging year for me. But things are looking good now. I have done a lot of rearranging and decluttering our house. I’m constantly trying to get more organized. A few months ago I took up digital scrapbooking. I love the “no mess” of it and being creative on the computer. In church, I lead the music in Relief Society and I just got called to be the Achievement Day Leader for the 8-11 year old girls. I’m so excited about this calling, I really like girls!

Well that is our year in review. We wish you all the best for the New Year and we hope to hear from you!

Love - The Martinez Family

Halloween Party

2007-11-04T13:51:00.001-08:00

Science Night

2007-10-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

Olivia and I went the the school Science Night. Oh what fun we had. They had mirrors and magnets and worms and squids. Livi didn't want to touch the worms let alone measure it and find it's front and back side. I did hold it though. The science teacher tried to get her to hold a handful of the worms so I could take a picture. But she dumped it out as soon as the slimy things touched her. :)

Here she is in the mirror room. They had all sorts of mirrors and fun things to show the different ways they work. Below she is inside a kaleidascope mirror.

But our favorite room was the magnets. They had magnetic balls to make dance, magnetic rings to make jump, and sand and iron mixed to find the iron treasure.

Our evening ended with a photo with Ms. Smith and we had to see the squids being dissected. Totally gross! Not ms. smith the squid!

www.gaberadel.blogspot.com

2007-10-25T15:43:00.001-07:00