Diaz Family

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-11T06:18:00.000-07:00

Red Rock Family Pictures

2010-12-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

We went up to Red Rock and took some family pictures. I think I will use them for our Christmas cards-- if I get around to sending them out--- if not then look at these and tell yourself Merry Christmas from us! lol

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T13:31:00.001-07:00

This Halloween brought to you by AJ the evil Jester and Alex Link from Zelda.

The boys carved their own pumpkins this year. AJ did sleepy hollow face and Alex did a skeleton.

J and I had two different parties this year. One we went as a Hawaiin couple and the other as a Priest and school girl--sshhhh don't tell! hahaha

We also did a fun and spooky dinner with the kids and their friends. They had to choose from a gross-out menu and ordered things like brains, tossed scabs, and chopped witch fingers. They loved it and still talk about how fun it was! We had a very busy weekend-- thank goodness the kids had 5 days off in a row so we could fit in all the celebrations!

And Alex/Link says bye-- and thanks for visiting!

Happy 11th Birthday AJ!!

2010-11-02T13:21:00.000-07:00

Ok yes I know this is 2 months late but hey at least its here!
This year AJ turned 11!! I can hardly believe how grown up he is getting. This year he started middle school too! For his birthday he wanted to try Outback Steakhouse for dinner, and of course loved it. For his party we put two projectors in our garage, one hooked up to the Wii and the other to the XBOX 360. Seriously the easiest party I ever did. I just sat in my backyard and let them enjoy the freedom and fun of the video game party! We love you AJ and are so proud of you and feel blessed everyday to have you in our family!

Oh and it was birthday too-- I had to work but friends made it a good day by bringing lunch and delicious cupcakes! Not too bad for a 25year old huh?

First Day of School 2010

2010-08-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

AJ started 6th grade this year- which is middle school here. He is in a magnet program for math and science so he starts an hour earlier than neighborhood kids. For this reason it is still dark outside at 6am when we leave to catch the bus! This should be fun right??

Alex is our big 3rd grader this year. He wanted a picture with his new glasses and one of "just eyes" he said. This morning when I got him up I was trying to help him get dressed and he told me, matter of factly, Mom I know what to do-- I got this! A little broken hearted I smiled and left him to dress himself-- lol!

And here is the biggest kid of all--J returns again split between two schools keeping all the teachers updated on technology and trying not to pull his hair out from frustration! All he asks is that you greet him before you assault him with tech requests:)

HAVE A GREAT YEAR GUYS--I LOVE YOU!

Alex's 8th Birthday and Baptism

2010-07-20T16:11:00.001-07:00

Alex turned a grand ol' 8 this year! He wanted a bowling party with some friends. We also baptized him into the church this year-- we love you Alex and are so proud of the boy you are and the sweet joy you bring into our lives!

Diaz Family Vacation 2010

2010-07-20T12:56:00.001-07:00

This year we took the kids on a cruise finally... we actually went with my entire family which was fun. Here are a few of the pics-- you can check out WAY more on facebook. Enjoy!

AJ rocking out

2010-05-20T19:46:00.000-07:00

AJ has been playing the guitar for about 6 months now. He has promising and amazing talent-- and can usually learn a new song within his 30 minute lesson!! Here he is playing the song he is performing for his school talent show next week-- Love Song by Anberlin (actually an old Cure song)! Wish him luck!

Mom's Day 2010

2010-05-09T14:34:00.000-07:00

Here is the traditional video I make for Meli every year. Of course, she cried happy tears. Happy Mother's Day Meli. We Love You So Much!
And happy Mother's Day to all the other moms out there!

Notes from Alex....

2010-05-05T16:37:00.000-07:00

My conversation with Alex on the way home today--"Alex why were you on yellow today. Um for shrieking-- you know what that is mom? Ya I do, why did you shriek in class, Um cuz I wanted to. Well guess what I want to do-- ground you. Oh man:( Hey mom, you are so beautiful. Oh thanks Alex but you are still in trouble. Oh man:(" I love him!

Easter 2010

2010-04-12T19:41:00.001-07:00

The kids with their baskets and Hannah the waskilly wabbit!

The egg hunt.

Halle was a running maniac--she loved it. Grandma gave Alex the idea of hiding the ones he found again for Hannah and Halle, but when it was all over and Alex had NO eggs in his basket from hiding them all he shook his head disappointedly and said "Grandma and her brilliant idea!" Hilarious... but then Hannah hid hers and peace was restored.

Halle found her basket quick but AJ and Alex had a hard time so they decided to eat some carrots to help their eyesight! Silly wabbits!

Dying the eaggs and squishy enjoying her jelly beans!

And the best part was the kids playing the Wii dancing to Cottoneyed Joe! Enjoy!

Wildlife World Zoo

2010-04-12T19:21:00.000-07:00

For spring break we headed down to Arizona to visit family. We wanted to take the kids to a zoo, so we decided to try a new one-- the Wildlife World Zoo in Avondale. It was so much fun. Spring is the perfect time to go because of all the new babies:) Well you can only have so many pictures of kids with zoo animals so we decided to change it up a bit and played "pretend you are eating the animal" So enjoy!

Halle eating the baby zebra.

Me eating a flamingo.

AJ kissing the butt of the warthog!

Hannah eating the baby giraffe.

Squishy eating the corn dog animal.

Alex eating some sort of bird.

Halle eating a turtle.

AJ eating a meerkat and kissing a kimodo dragon.

Flying kites

2010-04-11T15:46:00.001-07:00

The boys got kites for Easter and today was a perfect breezy day:)

Snow Much Fun and Love

2010-02-19T15:02:00.000-08:00

For the long weekend we took the boys to play and sled in the snow up at Mt. Charleston. Later for Valentines Day we celebrated with chocolates and heart shaped pizza! Yummy!

Alex Has A Great Week!

2010-02-08T15:46:00.000-08:00

Alex is -- well we all know how "special" our Alex is, and sometimes he has a hard time not getting into trouble at school. Well last week he tried and tried everyday to stay on green, (schools version of behavior-- green good, yellow warning, red trouble). Well not only was he green everyday, but was also student achiever of the week in Music class. And he passed his timed math test to level 10-- which is now Multiplication! He's in 2nd grade and ready for multiplication! Math is Alex's thing! We just wanted to let everyone know how proud we are of him!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-06T17:40:00.001-08:00

This Christmas was all about games for us. The boys got a Wii from Santa and Guitar Hero 5 and World Tour from us. The other major thing we did this holiday was TRAVEL-- we did 3 states, 2 countries, 1,000 miles all in only 6 days! We got to visit with most of all our family and some old friends too. We are greatful that we had the means to be able to do all of this and feel very blessed. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

m&m's and perfume!!

Here are all the cousins in Yuma with their surprise visitor---Santa!

This is in Mexico at Nana's grave-- we took flowers and cleaned it off and wished her a Merry Christmas too!

Winslow pics

Grandma and Grandpa gave the gift of music-- a guitar case for AJ and drums for Alex!

Shirt from Aunt Marcie-- then playing in the snow....I sat in the car and watched-- I don't like the snow!

Sledding Video:

This cute video has Alex catching some air right at the begining then ends so cute with AJ and Hannah giggling all the rest of the way down. They had so much fun on the broken pieces of sleds we found for them--GHETTO!!

Santa Pics

2009-12-22T16:13:00.001-08:00

Every year since AJ's first christmas in 1999 , I have taken my kids to have their picture with Santa. I do have a hard copy of every year-- but here are a few from my computer to share with you. I plan on doing this as long as they will let me and eventually decorate my tree with their santa pictures when they are all grown up and moved away:(

Christmas 2000 Christmas 2005

Christmas 2006 Christmas 2007

Christmas 2008 Christmas 2009

Halloween 2009

2009-11-03T10:49:00.001-08:00

We had a great halloween this year filled with Luigi and Edward Scissorhands... we partied with school friends, church friends, and good old family friends.... of course the boys scored big on the candy spectrum, and yes I pick out all the chocolate... just so it doesn't "melt" on their other candy.... shhh don't tell:)

Edward Scissorhands and Luigi

His name is Jesus but he really is a devil!

My last minute throw together... some sord of Pirate Gypsy--really I just wanted to wear my earrings:)

Friends the Cardall Boys

Martinez and friends and of course the Loot!

Carving pumpkins.. this year Alex couldn't stand the smell.

School parade of costumes

Halloween party with the Nebekers and Melancons

Nevada Day

2009-10-30T15:32:00.001-07:00

Playing catch at the park

Pushing the World

2009-10-24T13:35:00.001-07:00

Enjoying the warmth and playing in the water!

Halloween at Dis!

2009-10-24T12:36:00.001-07:00

Mr. Toad

I've gone Digital!

2009-10-04T18:23:00.000-07:00

I created this 8x8 page in a matter of minutes using my new digital software! Gonna take all my free time playing around with it!

Aj's Birthday Present

2009-09-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

So this is a little late, but here are some birthday pics from AJ's 10th. We got him a Fender Squire electric guitar... and boy was he surprised. Actually I think my dad was more excited than anybody!! They bought him the amp, and he was ready to rock!! He has been taking lessons for only three weeks and is catching on really well. Here is some pics and video of him playing!! Enjoy!

Here is video of him playing the begining of that Sweater song by Weezer, and Smoke on the Water... pretty good for only a couple of lessons!

Happy 10th AJ

2009-09-02T20:06:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to our AJ-- we love ya!

Back to School 2009

2009-08-25T17:30:00.001-07:00

It's back to school time again:) :)
Here are all the boys ready to head out to school.

AJ is in 5th grade now and this is his teacher Mr. King. This is the first male teacher he has had and we are really impressed already!

Alex is in 2nd grade now and this is his teacher Mrs. Chappel. She is super nice and excited to have Alex in her class.

This is Alex's best friend and he was only excited for school when he remembered that he would get to see him everyday:)

And this is our traditional back to school night out for dinner. We like to try new places and this was 3 Tomatos and a Mozzerella-- pretty good italian/tuscan bistro.

Good luck boys and I know you will have a great year!

A camping we will go.....

2009-08-17T13:17:00.001-07:00

This year for the end of our summer break we were invited to go camping with some of our very best family friends!! The last time we camped together Alex was in a walker! We had a great time and it was a great end to a crazy summer! Thanks guys!

Stampin Up Convention 2009

2009-08-09T12:04:00.001-07:00

I just got back from my business convention and had such a blast. Stampin Up is a great company to be a part of--mostly because some of my favorite people are there right along with me!! We were given many great ideas and got to create some fun projects, but most of all hanging out with your best friends for a week is the best!! luv you got ink girlz!!

The Got Ink Girlz!

We're magnetic!! lol

Me, Nena, Tiffany, Tami, and Marylynn

Hot Stampin Mama's!

Tami!

Jenn!!

Nena!

We got picked to be VIP's and had a reserved table for lunch--so nice! It must have been the shirts:)

This is the downline--basically 7 generations now! The lady in the middle is the aunt of the lady who started the company--we got connections! LOL

AJ Jamming

2009-07-24T19:06:00.000-07:00

Here is AJ at Guitar Center playing a Fender.
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Our Cruise 2009

2009-07-07T02:56:00.001-07:00

We finally went on a cruise this summer. We have been talking about doing one for a long time and decided enough talking and more doing!! We had a total blast and can't wait to go again! Next time we'll bring the kiddos! Enjoy the pics, in no particular order, and you can check out more on my facebook!

Formal Night

Towel animals

The captain of the ship and cruise director Felipe

Catalina Island

On the ferry to the island

Port in Ensenada, Mexico

Giant gold heads in Ensenada

La Bufadora--blow hole in Mexico

on the tour bus

Rock that life vest!

oh ya, orange is my color!

Getting on the ship!

Right on the gangway!

Alex's 7th Birthday!!

2009-06-25T16:00:00.001-07:00

Alex turned 7 today! I can hardly believe how grown up he is getting. For his day we made it a Day for Alex--doing all the things he wanted. We ate lunch at sonic-because you can get breakfast there all day and he loves breakfast. Then we went to see the new transformers movie--which he thought it was cool it came out on his birthday. Then we went bowling, then to dinner at our usual birthday spot-Red Robin- where they sang to him. Then we came home for brownie and ice cream- because he doesn't like cake, and opened presents. Then finished off his day with a family campout on the trampoline! BUSY BUSY day and fun to make him the "king" for the day--all of which AJ is gladly reminding us he can't wait until his big day too! We love you Alex and are so happy you are a part of our family!

Red Robin birthday sundae!

Go AJ!

He would strike the cutest pose when he bowled--check out the short video clip!

Us waiting for the movie to start--we were the first in the theater!

Mmmmm breakfast for lunch.

Waiting for dad to come home by having a water balloon fight

Special birthday pancake!!

We filled his room with balloons while he slept so he would have a special surprise when he woke up!

Disney Summer '09

2009-06-16T02:11:00.000-07:00

So we went to Disneyland again (lol)--but this time my entire family was there--15 of us in total, if you count "squishy"--who slept thru most of her first visit to the magic kingdom! Enjoy these pics--alot of them, which is what happens when Jesus has the camera--also you can check out more on my facebook page. The only thing we did new this time was take the kids to the Blue Bayou restaurant--the one inside the Pirates of the Carribean ride! It was fun!

Happy Mother's Day 2009!

2009-05-10T09:26:00.000-07:00

As has become a tradition, here is the latest Video for Meli. Happy Mother's Day, we love you lots!

Alex the Goalie

2009-05-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

Alex kicking the ball over everyone's head today. They tied 3-3 with Alex scoring once! Yeay Pelexander!

Scrapbooking weekend

2009-04-27T17:41:00.001-07:00

Here are some of the ladies that did the scrapbooking weekend! They were camped out for sure and meant business--i just went to visit and eat--you know the usual for me:)

Soccer Again.....Spring 2009

2009-04-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again where our Saturday's become about SOCCER!! Alex is the only one playing this season, which is nice because we only have one game to go to! Alex is of course the tallest kid out there, and super fast (that's according to him....but it's true) Lol

Here are some pics from his first game, oh ya and at half time he decided that it was the PERFECT time to pull out a loose tooth--go figure! Ah the life of a 6 1/2 year old:) He did great, and of course the one time I stopped recording him, he scored a goal---the only one his team made that game. Go Red Snakes!

Inside a hot air balloon!

2009-03-28T11:29:00.001-07:00

At the touch a truck--inside the balloon part of the hot air balloon!

Little Girls....Little Girls!

2009-02-28T13:15:00.000-08:00

I packed up and headed out of town for the weekend to be surrounded by little girls--and meet the newest one of the bunch! We had fun doing all the girly things I don't get to do in my house of stinky boys--hair, lip gloss, and fingernails! We gave Haidyn a bath then all took some pics! Yeah for little girls!

Beautiful Hannah!

Beautiful Halle!

Beautiful Haidyn!

Kissy face!!

Here is a video of Haidyn getting her hair washed--she loved it! Gotta love little girls!

AJ and his coaches

2009-02-28T11:29:00.000-08:00

So today AJ played his last basketball game of the season. Overall, he score like 20 points, had 15 steals and and unknown number of skinned knees. We're so proud of you AJ. Great job on your first season.
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Me and Haidyn

2009-02-28T10:24:00.001-08:00

Im' in girl heaven!! This is just after giving her a bath--gotta love the little piece of hair popping up!

Welcome my new niece!

2009-02-21T11:06:00.001-08:00

Haidyn Lee Koch

DS Mania

2009-02-20T21:33:00.000-08:00

So Alex and Chris are addicted to Mario on their DSs. They play them for hours on end and only come out to get a drink, but still won't put them down. Meli and I have our crackberries and Alex has his Cracktendo DS. (AJ has xbox). How sad are we!
Jesus
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Fun Girls Weekend in Cougar Country

2009-02-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

Last weekend my friend Kristin invited me on a roadtrip to visit our friend Kristen in Utah. We had sooo much fun--starting at 6am when we left--right up to end when we coasted in on gas fumes on Sunday!! On Saturday our other friend Randi flew in from good ol AZ for even more crazy fun. We went to a comedy club, ate good food, shopped, saw a movie, and basically acted like silly little girls!! It is so fun to have great friends--which I do for sure! Thanks Girlz!

To the brunettes decked out in black!!

It was like prom all over again--so many pics just before you leave!!

Crazys in the front seat!

Cuteness in the back seat! Ok the front seat was cute too.

The comedy club--Whoo whoo ref!!

Charlotte Russe--they were glad to see us leave!!

This was just the start of the roadtrip--see even THAT was fun!!

More Birthday Fun!

2009-02-09T12:56:00.000-08:00

So I am finally posting all the birthday fun we had for J's big 34. His birthday fell on a Friday and we went out with our good friends Rebecca and Fidencio to eat and see a movie. Then for his present we went to Mystere the following weekend. So he was telling everyone that is was his "birthday week"--ya nice try! We got a room at the Stratosphere--super deal and it was a pretty nice room. With our reservation we got access to the tower for free as many times as we wanted to go. We went up that night then again in the morning before we left--what a difference the sunlight makes. I am afraid of heights but at night it didn't seem so bad. So Happy Birthday Week J--you deserved it! Love ya!

The Yard House

Towne Square

Outside Mystere

Top of the Stratosphere

GNO Here We Come!

2009-02-07T18:14:00.001-08:00

Hot mamas here we we go!

A Father, a son, and a monkey.

2009-02-03T19:10:00.001-08:00

Why is it that Alex can't take a fun yet serious picture. I thought it looked funny, so off to the blogoshere it goes. We are dining at Denny's on a Tuesday when kids eat free. Meli is at home having fun holding a stampicampy thingy.
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Ready for 3-D

2009-02-01T17:17:00.001-08:00

The kiddos ready for the 3D commercial!

AJ MVP!

2009-01-31T11:28:00.000-08:00

This is AJ playing so hard and fast that he was blurry! Ya they lost but AJ scored 10 of his team's 12 points! Way to go mijo! You are awesome!
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Happy Birthday Jesus!

2009-01-23T13:35:00.001-08:00

It's tradition to go to red robin for our birthdays! The best part was when they sang to J (surprised because we didn't ask for it) but the kids were happy to have the icecream! Happy Birthday J we love you and all you do for our family!

Alex FINALLY Rides A Bike!!

2009-01-17T15:31:00.000-08:00

So the weather today was georgous--and I thought to myself--Self, you need to teach Alex to ride a two wheeler bike! So today we tackled that task! It took all of five seconds and he was off! He only had a couple of really good crashes, but no tears or scrapes--yet. He even learned how to start by himself! Good job Alex--we knew you could do it!!

Here he is on his first pass all alone--don't mind the dorky excited mom voice!

Here he is on his next pass all alone--it's funny how he crashes at the end!

And this last one is just to show off his skills (for the gradparents) ! By this time he'd only been riding all of 10-15 minutes!

AJ's First BBall Game

2009-01-10T16:07:00.000-08:00

AJ decided to try his hand at basketball this season instead of soccer. It was fun seeing him play something new. He is learning the rules--as am I--and still trying to play the game like a soccer player, but I know he will figure it out quickly! I am glad that his team is made up of majority first time players, so I am sure they won't win a lot of games but his coach is very patient and good about teaching them the basics. Good job AJ and keep up the great work!! Go Yellow Rebels!!

AJ going for a lay-up!

Waiting for the game to start!

Of course because we took pics of AJ our little Alex wanted his pic too!!

Here is a quick video of AJ throwing in the ball and running down court--one of the few times he got his hands on the ball this game!

Christmas 2008

2009-01-06T18:36:00.000-08:00

Well that time of year has come and gone. We actually stayed in Las Vegas for the first time this year and had all our family come to see us! That was nice not traveling, but it dawned on me a few days before that this meant that I had to buy everything to get ready for all the company! We started out with my own little family opening Santa gifts and the presents we got for each other, then the rest of the family filtered in for a fun weekend of food, presents, food, Rock band, food, and oh ya FOOD!! It was so fun having all my family together--all of us-- which hasn't happened in a while! Love you guys!

This was the Christmas Miracle I had been waiting for! LOL!!!

All the boys "plugged in"!

Halle with her doll that looks like her and Alex in Star Wars Heaven!

SHAM WOW!!!

ROCK BAND BABY!! The best was when Grandma and Grandpa gave it a try!!!

Friends Reunited!

2008-12-31T16:57:00.000-08:00

Here are AJ, Alex, Nat, Chris, Tayler, Sahara, Bridger, Bryce, Jessen, and Iza playing on the airplane see-saw at Mike and Tammi's new place back home in Las Vegas on New Year's Eve 2008.
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AJ Winter Piano Recital

2008-12-22T03:38:00.000-08:00

We went to a friend's house last night where a few families got together to allow their kids to perform some Christmas songs on the piano for a recital. It was fun to see how well all the kids did. AJ performed Deck the Halls--and did great!!! We sure miss our piano teacher! This would make the second one that has moved away---hmm I wonder if I'm sensing a pattern.... Anyways enjoy the video of AJ showing his stuff on the piano! Merry Christmas!

At the UofA basketball game

2008-12-20T13:08:00.000-08:00

Hi all. Here are Meli and me at the TnM cheering on the Cats! Awesome weekend to be a Wildcat!
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It's Begining To Look A Lot Like Christmas.....

2008-12-17T16:11:00.000-08:00

Ok so it totally SNOWED today!! It was so beautiful and white and my kids begged to play out in it--how can you say no when we never get snow to play in. All they wanted to do was jump on the trampoline in the snow. As you can see from these little videos it was totally covered in icy wet snow--perfect for snowballs AJ informed me (because he apparently is a snowball expert now). What a fun early christmas present for us! They of course lasted only 5 minutes but were welcomed in to delicious hot chocolate waiting for them!! We love the snow!!

Ok--did I mention that I am Mom of the Year???

2008-12-12T20:45:00.001-08:00

Ok, so remember back a few posts when I raved on AJ for making straight A's--so there is more to this story.

That night we told AJ that because he did so good that he could pick anywhere to go for dinner--he was naming off various places and Alex pipes up and starts complaining about them. I was like look, AJ gets to pick because we are so proud of the good job he did in school and the award that he got. So Alex gives me this weird look, leaves the room, and comes back with and award himself--A/B Honor Roll!!!! He was like now can I pick too??? Geez, I didn't even know this kid got an award! Some mom huh? Needless to say we came up with a place that BOTH agreed on and had a great time at the Olive Garden. So...... GREAT JOB ALEX!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please Tell Me I Will Laugh At This One Day!!

2008-12-05T00:02:00.001-08:00

Need I say more???

Fw: Aj's award.

2008-12-02T10:31:00.001-08:00

AJ was the only kid in the whole 4th grade to earn straight A's!! Way to go--keep up the hard work!!

Thanks!

2008-12-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

With it being Thanksgiving time I would be ungrateful if I didn't thank our wonderful friends the Broderick's and the Cardall's who so generously shared their day with us. Our plans changed due to illness and they welcomed us in....THANKS!!!
So of course I go nowhere without my camera these days, except for important places and days like thanksgiving (I'll chalk it up to being sick I guess) so I have no pictures from that day or the weekend. Saturday afternoon I was feeling a little better and a lot stir crazy so we attempted an outing. I guess a week of me looking like crap makes a difference when you actually get ready because Alex says "Mom--you look pretty, I want to take your picture" So I let him, then I said "Alex you are so cute, let me take yours" So here are those pics--the only we got of our holiday weekend. Coming soon--putting up the tree!!

Christmas Dancing with the Diaz Elves!!

2008-11-23T14:26:00.000-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Aj Party'n It Up

2008-11-15T20:27:00.001-08:00

AJ party'n with Cassie at her sweet sixteen!

Disneyland--an Epic of Pics!!

2008-11-13T02:10:00.003-08:00

Ok this will be a long post...but full of pics which is fun--enjoy!!

The first morning getting ready to leave!!

The Pirate Island

On the ferry to the island.

The train--nice resting ride.

This is my brother-n-law Jim--my official ride date because my sister is pregnant and it usually worked out that we were left over without ride partners so we rode a lot of rides together--funny!

What's up with my little gangsta--throwin signs and posing all ghetto???

Bugs World

AJ loves the shooting range--boys!!

And what trip to Cali is complete without a stop at the beach!!

I want off!!

2008-11-09T19:13:00.001-08:00

AJ on the mickey roler coaster Screamin--screaming for his mommy!!!

Mmmmmm

2008-11-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

'Nuf said
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Jonas bros

2008-11-08T09:06:00.000-08:00

The boys were filming the disney Christmas special and we had front row seats! Joe is so yummy! (the one in the middle)
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Day 1 @ Disney

2008-11-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

Today we started our disney adventure. Its a 4 day weekend so we took advantage and shirked our responsibilities of the wekend like coaching, teaching etc to have fun! More pics later!
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Halloween Time 2008

2008-11-03T14:10:00.000-08:00

This year has gone so fast--can you believe that Halloween has come and gone?? Here are some fun pics of our weekend--Enjoy!!

Friends at the Trunk or Treat!

Carving Pumpkins!!

Decorating cookies at a friends house.

AJ and his "girlfriend" Bailey. Alex and his class.

After the trunk or treat we went to and adult only party where I dressed up as a PREGNANT Nun with a sign saying the Devil made me do it and J went as the devil. It was funny!!!

And last but not least, Alex shows us a little renditon of his version of the Thriller dance.

Goodbye Tia Kika!

2008-10-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

We had to make a quick trip to Yuma and San Luis Mexico this past weekend due to the passing of J's Tia Kika. She was the oldest sibling in her family on J's mom's side. J's mom passed away 4 years ago and now they are having a sweet reunion! She will be missed. Here the boys (including cousin Luis) stand in front of her grave all piled with the flowers from the Mass.

Of course you have to go eat tacos when you go to mexico--the boys think it's so cool to drink out of glass bottles!!

mmmm tacos!!

Here are the grandkids at Nana Eva's grave.

Alex and his cousin Luis sitting on top of Tata's truck shooting at the birds---BOYS!!!

We're so awesome!

This is crazy-- while waiting in line to cross back over the boarder this was an advertisement on the boarder "wall"--the little girl looked exactly like Tyler Cardall to us and thought that we would share what Tyler would look like as a girl--beckoning people to come to America!! What do you think???

Yuma' Castle

2008-10-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of the boys with their cousin Luis. They are at a cool fortress/castle just a block north of Tata's house.
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Halloween With Grandma!

2008-10-18T16:19:00.001-07:00

My parents came down this weekend to watch the boys play soccer and go to a concert (and I guess see me too). Of course they can't come empty handed--especially with a holiday around the corner. We have officially been invaded by Halloween--from new treat bags that light up, to decorations, and to the best part--a chocolate cookie haunted castle that they decorated together! AJ and Alex had a blast--thanks Grandma and Grandpa!

New treat bags!

Here we go!!

The finished product--Uncle Jordan had more fun than any of them!!

A little video of some fun with the Haunted Cookie House!!

Flashback Friday

2008-10-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

Ok so it's been a while since I did a flashback friday but I thought this was too cute to pass up. I was pulling out baby clothes I have saved for my sister and found some outfits of my boys that made me say "awwww--I can't believe they were ever this small"!! So my sweet husband took those outfits and strung them up above my laundry on a clothesline! Now everytime I open the laundry doors to do something that makes me go "arrrgh", I now get to see those sweet outfits and say "aawwww". Thanks honey I love it!!

Letter Scattegories

2008-10-08T08:48:00.000-07:00

Use the first letter of your name to answer the following. they have to be real places, things, names...nothing made up! try to use different answers if the person who tagged you had the same first initial. you can't use your name for the boy/girl name question.

what is your name? Melissa
4 letter word: Moon
pro sports team: Mavericks (like our future presidential team???)
celebrity or band: Marley Matlin (double pints)
vehicle: Mercedes baby!
tv shows: Myth Busters
city: Manhattan (one I would like to visit some day)
boy name: Michael (boring I know)
girl name: Maren
occupation: Medical Doctor
something you wear: Moon boots!!
something you throw away: Mail--junk mail
food:Mexican baby!!
something found in a bathroom: Mirror (but I liked Cheryl's answer better)
reason for being late: Missed period (no this is NOT an announcement)
something you shout: MINE!

I tag whoever wants to do this.

Little Girls! Little Girls!

2008-10-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

So I have my 2 nieces for the next 10 days!! I love having little girls around so I can play dress up and do hair and nails---AJ is getting tired of this! LOL

I now know why God sent me boys---drama drama drama. So far it has been really great and fun and I even survived a trip to the store with all 4 of them! Ya I know, you, my friends with that many kids (and more) aren't impressed because you do it all the time but for me it was a great feat!! The boys are loving it and except for the fact that they wake up at the butt crack of dawn I'm loving it too. Yeah for Little Girls!!

McDonald's Playland--good ol' McDonalds!!

Best of Friends!!

We even decorated for Halloween! Notice everything is at little kid level--hard for me to leave it.

Here's a funny video from the night we picked them up--CRAZY!!! I don't know why saying "booties" is so funny but apparently it is!

Fall Soccer 2008

2008-09-27T19:46:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again---SOCCER!! This is AJ's 7th season and Alex's 2nd. AJ's team is purple this year and named the Puma Panthers (because they couldn't decide on which one to go by--but aren't they the same animal???) and Alex's team is green this year and is called the Green Goblins! Something new this season is that J is actually assistant coaching on AJ's team--fun for both AJ and J (fun for mom because she gets to send AJ to practice with J) AJ's team tied 0-0 and Alex's team won 4-1 (3 of the goals being scored by Alex himself!!! But who's bragging??) AJ of course decided to start the year off by giving me the usual heart attack by playing goalie for the second half--which he blocked to great shots!! Looks like it's going to be a great season!!

GO AJ!!

AJ--goalie

Alex ready to start the game!

Alex in action going for the goal!

Balloona Pallooza!!!

2008-09-21T08:41:00.000-07:00

So we went with our friends the Thomas' to the Ballona Pallooza put on by the city. They promised us a balloon glow, good music, and free entrance with cheap parking. WELL..... the line was a nightmare to park so we ended up parking across the street and hiking in, only to find out that they weren't doing the balloon glow, the band Everclear was playing but was delayed and had sound probs, BUT of course we had a great time!!! When in doubt dance around, act crazy, and embarrass the heck out of your kids!! The fireworks were a great way to end the night. No matter where we go, we always make a fun time of it!!!

AJ was so steamed off about them not having the balloons his head caught on fire!!

More balloon-less fire glows.

Kristen and I in the mosh pit (she almost got thrown up on--ask her about it)

Matt and J in the mosh pit throwin up their gansta signs for Everclear.

Cool Fireworks!!

This is the best video EVER--we totally embarrassed our kids! 867-5309 YEAH BABY!!

Make your own title.

2008-09-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

As AJ and I were coming home today from school, we found ourselves on the wrong "end" of this picture. We laughed when we started thinking of what and who they reminded us of. Write a few headlines if you find this as comical as we did.
Here's a freebie:
"Obama/Biden hit the campaign trail" (hee hee!)
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Back to School Open House

2008-09-18T20:26:00.000-07:00

Ok in my day open houses were come, tour the room, talk to the teacher, then leave. Oh no! Not anymore. First the Honor choir performed, there was a spaghetti dinner, they had folklorico dancers, and the usual tour the room, as well as pass out pin numbers to log onto a website to check on your kids grades. WOW! It was a great night--way better than the usual.
Alex enjoying the 'sgetti

The entertainment

Alex and his teacher Mrs. Medina--she got down to be on his level so Alex got down too, funny!

AJ and his teacher Mrs. Cline --he's almost as tall as her, no kneeling!!

A little snippet from their performance, AJ is right in front in the red t-shirt.

IMG00122.jpg

2008-09-16T19:36:00.000-07:00

So we ate dinner at Taco Bell and this was parked next to us. Should we read it as a sign of what happens to you if you eat here?? If you look close you can see a coffin in the back!! Yikes!
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Workin' Girl!!

2008-09-10T16:53:00.000-07:00

Ok so I started working again this week. Man oh man am I beat!! Can you see the bags under my eyes already??? It is great to get out of the house and earn some "fun" money, but these early mornings---waking up at 3:45---is going to kill me!! Thanks to Bell for a perfect job for those mom's who still want to be mom's. This note was waiting for me at home after my first day!! Love you family!!!

Happy Birthday to Me!

2008-09-07T19:54:00.000-07:00

I officially celebrated my birthday for like a week, and what did I do....EAT!! Ya, everything I did centered around going out to eat. Oh well, priorities right? Thanks to everyone for all the well wishes, lunches ;-) and everything!!

Great girlfriends Emily and Nena taking me out to lunch--
Los Tacos Baby!!

My family at one of my favorite spots--
Red Robin Baby!!!

J and I at the District, trying out a new place---
The Elephant Bar Baby!!!

Another grat gal-pal Jen and I at a new place--
Cafe Rio Baby!!

Resting after all the food!!

Twilight

2008-09-05T15:28:00.000-07:00

Saw this on another blog--thought I'd pass it along

I just heard that the Twilight movie release has been moved up to November 21st! I guess this might be because Harry Potter was postponed. What do you think???

Happy 9th AJ!!!!

2008-09-02T21:11:00.000-07:00

Today our AJ turned 9! I can't believe how fast it happens--poof! We were remembering what we were doing 9 years ago the night before he was born. I had to check into the hospital at midnight--my doctor thinking that I would have the typical long first labor. Surprise, he was born at 9:37 am. Even more special was that I got to come home the next day on my birthday with the best present ever--our first baby! What a blessing and joy it is that he is our son. We love you AJ!!

p.s. yes that is a 6 candle on the cake that we had from Alex's birthday that we just turned upside down for a 9 and stuck a match on it. AJ was like, "Man my parents are cheap!!" LOL! We are resourceful AJ, resourceful!! (Mostly because we couldn't find any other candles)

PICTURE UPDATE

2008-08-31T13:38:00.000-07:00

Ok so these are the pics that J was able to get. Not the best but still.... Oh so here is a cool story. So since the paparazzi have been stalking his property all week, someone from the Jackson Family called the school asking for the school police to escort them off the property. Which they did, but the cool thing is that they offered for "Mr. Jackson" to come over anytime and take a picture with the staff! Ya baby--J better be in that staff picture! We will keep you posted for sure!!

The people against the wall are the paparazzi. In the corner you can see some of their equipment. All I have to say is WHAT IS HE WEARING?????

This is a private helicopter that flew over all day. J said that at times you could see a HUGE lens hanging out the side.

Paparazzi Alert!!

2008-08-29T09:19:00.001-07:00

So the past few days paparazzi have been flooding "the house" across the street from the school---all in anticipation of Michael Jackson's 50th birthday!! Can you believe that he's 50???? Oh Michael, where has the time gone?? J is on assignment to capture any cool pics. I will post these later if he comes thru for us!!!

Back To School

2008-08-25T19:10:00.000-07:00

The school year has started!! (pause for a moment of silent cheers....) Alex started 1st grade and AJ started 4th grade. We took the pics early this morning on the way and I told them to come home with the name of a new friend that they made today and to be ready to tell me what they liked about their day.

Alex said he couldn't remember the boys' names but they played at recess, and his favorite part was PE and eating two lunches--he took his lunch and then proceeded to get hot lunch too! I was like Alex you can't do that but he was like well---they let me and it was macaroni!! I guess there you go.

Aj said his favorite part was also PE and trading his juice pouch for a pizza at lunch! I guess it's all about the food at school huh?

I am excited for their new school year!!!

Welcome back!

2008-08-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

Welcome back sons!!!

Haircut time!

2008-08-24T17:35:00.000-07:00

Say goodbye to my daughters Alexa and Adrianna!

Where We've Been--Final Episode

2008-08-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

So after the week of Convention and Scout camp we headed to Arizona to get my boys from my sister's house--and see her new house too! I helped pay back the favor and took her little one for a few days. She has super curly hair and I thought it would be so fun to straighten her hair--this is what happens when I get around her girls!! ("Aunt Lissa this is taking forever") We went shopping and she had to ride the carousel--which totally make me sick (note my face in the picture!!) but I'm such a sucker for these cutey pies!!

My parents ended up coming there and we made a family weekend of it--water park and swimming at the hotels. We even threw a "surprise" party for my brother in law's birthday--well as much of a surprise as you can have in the next door hotel room!

After playing in AZ we only had one week left of summer before J had to go to work so we headed to Mesquite for our 2 free nights at the hotel for more playing and swimming. We are sad to see the summer end but glad to be getting back to the ole routine!!

BRING ON SCHOOL!!!!

Where Have We Been Part 2 (Scout Camp)

2008-08-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

So this summer, I had the chance to go to scout camp. It was my first one ever, so I was pretty excited. We went up to Navajo Lake in Utah for a week. As you can tell, we did some repelling.

Hiking in the Virgin River,

Archery

Hiking in cold pools of water

and kayaking/canoeing. We also worked on basketry, pioneering, orienteering, cooking, camping and astronomy merit badges. Overall, it was really fun, but the best part was coming home to my family.

Where have we been???--Part 1 Convention

2008-08-11T19:46:00.000-07:00

You go out of town for a few weeks and it feels like a life time! Here are some pics of what weve been up to: Part one is the Stampin Up Convention:

This was the theme for convention: Celebrate '08.

The lady in the pink socks was the 2nd person to sign up in the company way back when--she's the aunt of the cofounder/CEO and she is in my direct upline by about 5--this was an invite only dinner and make & take night. Fun Fun!!

This is me and Thuryl Bailey (sp??) from the Jazz??? He is on their board or something--look how freakin tall he is, remember I am 5'12"( that's 6 feet for you math challenged people)

This is our favorite guy (yes guy) presentor--Jaron. Jen actually went to high school with him!

Our last pic there, right before we left! This was the main stage.

This is us at the building in Riverton where are the fun stuff happens--by this I mean our stamp orders get packed and shipped. It was a huge plant!!!

This is out front of the Riverton building.

Some "cupcakes" with some cupcakes!!

I loved this pic of J and I. We went out the Saturday night before we both left on our separate vacations. This is from the top of the Rio at the Voodoo Lounge.

There you have it--fun pics from a great week at the convention.

Convention Baby!!!

2008-07-31T09:20:00.001-07:00

Here we are at the Stampin Up convention. Having a blast and workin it--- Diva Las Vegas!!

Flashback--On our way

2008-07-25T17:11:00.001-07:00

Here are the boys on there way to Grandma's and then to Auntie's for a week and a half. The best part is they are going alone!!! Did you ever get to go on trips or visits without your parents? I had a cousin I would visit in summers alone--good times and memories. Have fun boys!!!

Welcome Max #2!!

2008-07-21T13:02:00.000-07:00

OK, who had 8 days on the poll of how long the fish would last??

So, we went to church yesterday and came home to this:

Which was followed quickly by this:

Which led to this:

Welcome Max #2!!!

Fun with new devices!

2008-07-20T10:10:00.001-07:00

We just learned how to blog via our crackberries! Isn't technology amazing!

Leg guitar

2008-07-20T10:00:00.001-07:00

Silly boys rockin out!

Ok so you fellow bloggers....i sent this post over my new phone!! My blogging has now become mobile so beware--I can snap a pic and post it instantly--bhwaaaahaaahaaa(or how ever you write the evil laugh sound!) You got to love technology!

Flashback--Alex Graduation

2008-07-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

Remember Kindergarten? I actually do have some weird memories of Kinder--my teacher was old and wouldn't let us have any sweets at parties, so instead we had carrots and celery. I also remember if we did something wrong she would take us behind a curtain area and shake us and yell at us---ahhh the good ol days of corporal punishment!! FORTUNATELY Alex had a much nicer experience for Kinder. He actually had two teachers, Mrs. DeCelles and Mrs. O'Leary. Super nice. Here are some cute pics of the great day. Way to go Alex.

Alex on his first day of school.

Alex and his first Kinder teacher Mrs. DeCelles (from AZ)

Alex getting his diploma from Mrs. O'Leary

Little Warning For You

2008-07-17T11:54:00.001-07:00

Tick Warning!
I hate it when people forward bogus warnings, and I have even done it myself a couple times unintentionally...but this one is real, and it's important. So please send this warning to everyone on your e-mail list. If someone comes to your front door saying they are checking for ticks due to the warm weather and asks you to take your clothes off and dance around with your arms up in the air, DO NOT DO IT!! THIS IS A SCAM!! They only want to see you naked. I wish I'd gotten this yesterday. I feel so stupid.

Welcome Jack and Max!!

2008-07-12T16:26:00.000-07:00

So we broke down and got the kids a trial pet. Ya I know fish don't really count but hey they are happy!! We'll see how long these poor things make it :)

Happy 4th!!!

2008-07-05T16:18:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July this year was spent with family and friends. First on the 3rd we attended the concert put on by the stake--excellent!! Then watched the fireworks up at the park with ward friends. The fireworks seemed right on top of us they were so close!! The morning of the 4th we had a flag-raising and yummy red white and blue waffles!!

We swam, ate, rested, ate, popped fireworks, ate, then went and watched more fireworks.

It was overall a great day, and it wasn't too hot either, which is always nice. I am greatful for a country that allows us such freedoms to celebrate!!

Another Month, Another Marathon

2008-07-01T18:25:00.000-07:00

Yeah to me I walked 35 miles last month and although it was super super hot outside this morning, and I was being heckled by dudes with long mid-life crisis hair on their way to work, I already started off this month on a good foot! Let's keep up the hard work!!!