On the...

First Day of Christmas...

we drove back by the musical house and watched

"The Grinch"

Second Day of Christmas...

we put up our tree and watched

"Santa Claus is Coming to Town"

Third Day of Christmas...

we put gifts under the tree from the Secret Santa Shop

and tivoed "Rudolph"

Peace

A Wild Cow, A Musical House & "Elk Guts"

On Friday morning, after we had hit a few Black Friday sales, Ricky and I decided to cruise around. As we passed the UC we saw a COW. So? Well, the cow was not on the right side of the fence where he/she belonged. So, being the "do-gooder" (thanks Richard) that I am I drove up to the gate of a farm nearby. I explained to him the cows predicament that I don't think it belonged on the bike path. He proceeded to tell me that it must just be, "a wild cow." Now, what the heck is a wild cow? I think he was so bothered by me calling him because he hung up on me. (Nice, Mr. Good Samaritan Farmer Man) So now I am upset, as in sad and kept repeating, "wild cow, wild cow," what the he** is a wild cow? Well, low and behold there was another "do gooder" out there that was trying to get the cow back to where it belonged. So he escorted it down the bike path using his car and eventually the "wild cow" went back to join his friends. Of course I was upset that I did not think of getting a picture of "wild cow" while he was on the bike path so I had to settle for this one. "Wild Cow" is in the foreground on it's way to hook backup with his buddies.

Christmas is one of my most favorite times of the year. I love driving around and looking at lights. I was so happy to see that this house was back up again sharing Christmas Cheer. It amazes me at how it is all put together. They even have an actual security camera as well. I hope you can hear the "Charlie Brown" Christmas music in the background as I love the show and it reminded me of last year when Ricky was practicing for the production.

I know this is a long post but I have to give one more shout out to our neighbors...Mr. and Mrs. Elk Guts. Neighbor Jenn did her awesome sign drawing once again. Congrats Neighbor Julie and Neighbor Cliff!

Peace!

Tacos vs. Turkey

Versus

Well, first of all Happy Thanksgiving to all. It was a very nice a quiet day which was a must after all the craziness of the past month. I must admit that I am not much of fan of Thanksgiving. Sure we have our traditions, homemade cinnamon rolls, the Macy's Parade, decorating for Christmas, but all in all we just relax.

I guess today is the 30th anniversary of me finally taking a stand to not eat turkey on Thanksgiving. I despise the bird. My kids eat it. Richard eats it. I personally cannot handle the sight or smell of it. So many moons ago, I started my own Thanksgiving Dinner...tacos. Imagine a table all set up with the beautiful china and all, throw in some candles and then as you scan the table there sits my tacos. They definitely look out of place, but it is a given that they will be there on what everyone refers to as "turkey day."

A few things that I am thankful for are...

*my family- fall brook court, janet court, robin hood and wyoming drive

*my job-next to Disneyland, it is the "happiest place in the hood."

*my health-although I have had my share of scares, God has blessed me with great results.

*my friends-fall brook court, scrapbooking, Tenaya and travel ball

*the daily help that I get from my mom and Jennie

*breakfast at my mom's house

*my kid's athletic abilities

* watching my two kids grow-so can't believe that they are 12 and 8

*that despite all Richard and I have been thru-to hell and back-not talking for days, maybe weeks, that we have not given up and are learning everyday that we can do this

*me-sounds weird but I am thankful for who I am. I am not perfect and a bit whacked at times but I know that if I can slip and fall and end up under my car and LAUGH or fall into the tub and break my nose and still LAUGH that things are pretty food.

Looking forward to what next year will bring-the one thing that I know for sure is when it comes down to tacos or turkey....the tacos will win every time!

Peace...and eat tacos!

Life's Lessons

This has been an extremely busy week. I cannot believe that it is actually Friday. This week I guess the theme of our house would be "life's lessons." Lessons that I learned and lessons that I hope Ricky and Jessica will take to heart and remember forever. Thank goodness that my children will not be tested by the State of California on their mastery of these lessons, but that they will be tested by life itself and those around them.

*keep your day planner with you and keep it current-this will allow for no last minute surprises like "puppet night" on Wednesday.
*always wear shorts under your sweats-"if you get hot-you can just pull them off!"
*always tell your parents where you are going and don't take off on your own-little Miss Jessica is having issues with this one, but after this morning, hopefully she will learn
*never, ever, throw down your jersey when you are mad during a game
*never, ever speak in an ugly tone for it is a long walk home
*Pilgrim facts-thank goodness for Jessica that she has her brother to help her with her homework
*a bubble-one that was blown by chance and now is close to mastery
*that your child enjoyed having you stay and help make puppets-I am glad you stayed mom and didn't just drop me off (we will see how long this will last)
*never, ever make your pillows look like a body so that way when your mom goes to wake you up in the morning-she finds them and not you...and don't make it worse by giggling!
*The Act of Contrition
*the disappointment that Prop. 8 won-I am proud that my two children accept all people

*my children's interest in politics and the fact that they could discuss the issues and their choices and stand by them

*that it is important to vote-they wanted to leave by 6:30 to get to the polls before they opened
*that having a new pair of shoes for Ricky's first game really was important to him
*that sometime life is not fair and that is just how it is

The biggest lesson that I learned this week as I watch my children grow is, sometimes I just want to get in the car and drive-fast-and just go, but I know that as I look in the rear view mirror those two totally awesome kids were given to me by God will be there. I may make it to the end of Fall Brook Court but then my phone would ring and it would say "HOME."

I thank them for the lessons that they teach me on a daily basis.

Peace

Recap

Well this past week has been pretty much a blur. Lots of fun things going on and gratefully...no new socks to be found!

*High School Musical 3 was totally cute... I loved it!
*Went to Michelle K.'s house for a Halloween Craft night. Had such a great time. Got 14 pages done. Great food, great company-her mom makes me laugh and smile!
*Ricky cooked dinner for Jessica but made chicken strips and not nuggets so-Jessica went to bed hungry-she will learn to be grateful. Thank you RD
*soccer on saturday
*cleaned and organized my scrapbooking room...AGAIN
*Jessica had 10 correct picks in her weekly football picks
*Ricky made the school basketball team
*Jessica finished 2 MTH books this week
*Ricky and Jessica both loved Central Catholic
*Jessica loves her Cathechism teacher so it is not a big drama every Wednesday-thank goodness
*Richard was on pumpkin patrol this year as all of our traditions went to the way side because two little people in this house have too busy of a schedule
*Grandma Joan was in town and between her and Jenn, saved Jessica's costume
*Trunk or Treat was fun
*Jessica's Halloween Party was a lot of fun
*On-Star could not unlock my car-next time I will say it is Tiger Woods
*tacos at Jennie's
*Trick or Treating with the Salcidos...the only tradition that we were able to hold onto this year.-Jessica so loves her neighbor Noah and so proud that Kyle and Ricky made smart choices while trick or treating
*Jessica scored a goal
*it rained
*Ricky played baseball-drove in 6 runs
*Ricky was asked to play in Arizona in December
*Jessica had total one on one time with her Nana

well that is just a tad of what happened this week at 1976 Fall Brook Court

Peace

"Mom, I can't find my socks!"

Like most households, we have a sock issue. There always seems to be atleast one missing!

Lately, Jessica seems to be losing more and more socks. We can always find one, but not the other. These mysterious things that resembled socks started popping up around the backyard. Belle, Cinderella and Ariel had taken a trip that Walt Disney never had intended. (Definitely not an E ticket ride) They had been ingested by one of Jessica's four legged brothers. Richard and I figured it couldn't be Fenway because he is such a priss and it had to be the gut buster Max.

These mysterious packages had disappeared for awhile until today. We were in the living room when we heard the most obnoxious belch. We looked and saw Max...and what appeared to be a sock. A sock that belonged to Jessica. I asked Richard if he thought I could get the sock clean, more of a challenge than anything. We both agreed,it wasn't worth the effort, so to the trash it went. (Please note, I would not have had Jessica wear it-it was just this totally cool Halloween festive green color that seemed challenging)

So the mystery of the sock culprit was solved. It was Max. We were amazed that he did not choke or get it stuck in his intestines. It is strange that it has been awhile since any of these have surfaced. I think it is because he has eaten all of the Disney socks. As Neighbor Jenn pointed out, he is a true Delgado-Martinez. He too wanted a piece of Disney. I quickly pointed out that the Martinez side had him "let it go," as like Richard, he can only handle Disney for a short time before he to needs to let it go.

Peace and pick up your socks!

High School Musical 3 is in the house!

Well, it is officially October 24, 2008-okay maybe on the East Coast but the day has finally arrived. High School Musical 3 has arrived and these Fall Brook Courters can't be more excited. Grandma Jennie is pulling the kids out of school early and dropping them off at Tenaya. They will then be picked up by a friends mom and taken to lunch. (I will still be at work)
Following lunch they will meet me in line as the anticipation builds to see Zac, Gabriella and Sharpay.

I never got pulled out of school to go watch a movie. I guess this really isn't just any old movie...it is High School Musical 3. By the way, Jessica thinks Disney is being greedy for charging us to watch it. I asked her if she wanted to wait till it came on the Disney Channel. Of course the answer was no and eventhough she did not think Disney was being nice, she can hardly wait.

I can hardly wait myself and am looking forward to a great afternoon with friends followed by a moms night of scrapbooking and crafting.

Peace!

October 15, 1965 + 43

Totally Cool! Got up and went outside to get the paper. It is 5:30 and as I turn around to walk back in the house...BAM!-this is what I see on my garage door. So cool from my 1971 neighbors-Thank you guys for starting my day off on such a cool note! Luv My Neighbor Jenn

So yesterday, October 15, 2008, I turned 43. I so can't believe it as I remember when I thought turning 18 would make me an old lady. I had a great day.

Here are 43 things I loved about yesterday.

1. waking up to a sign on my garage-so love my neighbors
2. Ricky walking in, getting a hug and in his changing voice, "happy birthday mom."
3. Jessica faking she is asleep so she can jump up and yell, "happy birthday!"
4. Richard actually remembering
5. Max and Fenway's rendition of "Happy Birthday."
6. My mom's homemade pancakes
7. My mom's cinnamon rolls
8. Being sung "happy birthday" at the breakfast table
9. Being sung "happy birthday" in a department meeting
10. Getting a homemade card from a student
11. another round of "happy birthday" in the computer lab
12. my birthday being announced on Tenaya Television
13. happy birthdays throughout campus
14. a Fonzi birthday card
15. cards, hugs and candy from my morning core
16. my t.a. bringing a balloon and a card for the whole class to sign
17. Ricky setting my phone alarm to go off at 10:15 with a "happy birthday" message on it
18. Birthday greetings from my CE sisters
19. the wild bunch of 7th graders singing from across the lawn
20. 4th period's rendition of Happy Birthday
21. 5th period's rendition of Happy Birthday
22. our counselor's homemade card
23. marie callender chocolate pie from mark h at lunch
24. lunch with my dad, mark, penney, dora and windly
24. homemade muffins from dora
25. birthday shout outs from around campus
26. afternoon core's renditon of happy birthday
27. cards, stuffed animals, candy and more hugs
28. delivered flowers from one of my students-that was very cool
29. former students no0w in high school bringing a cupcake, cards and gift
30. other high schoolers stopping by to wish me happy birthday
31. the entire cheerleading team's rendition of HB with a few kicks thrown in
32. Ricky got a hair cut
33. Jessica was excited to go to Catechism
34. got a new camera because I lost my other one
35. neighbor mark asking about tacos ...we opted for hamburgers this year
36. homemade hamburgers and fries at my mom's
37. gift cards to Michael's from Aidan and Kenna
38. a card from Grandpa Al
39. the infamous choo choo train from Baskin Robbins
40. my brother called
41. we debated for 38:28 about going to Table Mountain so I could get my shirt
42. I only did one load of laundry because Ricky needed his uniform 43. Ricky and Jessica told me I am a good mom!

Thanks again...looking to # 44
Thanks Neighbors!

Me

1.How many songs are on your iPod? maybe 300-most of them Ricky and Jessica generated.

2. What music would you want played at your funeral? I Can Only Imagine, On Eagle's Wings, Simply the Best-(ricky, jessica and my song-because I think they are Simply the Best...even when my neighbor Jenn hears me screaming or using a hockey stick to get my kids into the house!)

3.What magazines do you have subscriptions to? Creative Keepsakes and Simple Scrapbooks

4. What is your favorite scent? Bath & Body's Lavender-helps me sleep and Sweet Pea.

5. If you had a million dollars that you could only spend on yourself, what would you do with it? Travel...but my kids who have to come and build on a scrapbooking room that could be organized correctly and functional

6. What is your theme song? Pocketful of Sunshine is big right now, but again, most songs are generated from Ricky and Jessica. Have a lot of old SMC favorites as well.

7. Do you trust easily? Probably TOO easily but glad that's how I am and how I get myself into some dumb situations.

8. Do you generally think before you act, or act before you think? Depends-if it is for me-I may think about it-for the kids-impulsive....scrapbooking-impulsive!

9.Is there anything that has made you unhappy these days? The state of our country has me sad, the little boy that keeps BUGGING Jessica and the fact that a kid would take a cheap shot at my son during a soccer game. Oh, and I forgot-MATH HOMEWORK!!!

10. Do you have a good body-image? As long as I am not looking in a mirror, trying on clothes...but yes, of course I do. LOL

11. Is being a mom fun? Wouldn't change it for the world!

12. How do you spend your social networking (Facebook, etc.) time? Blogging, Scrapbook Events, Neighborhood chit chats and lunch at work.

13. What have you been seriously addicted to lately? Pepsi-BAD! Cream of Wheat and toast.

15. What’s the last song that got stuck in your head? Pocketful of Sunshine as I play it everyday after I drop the kids off at my MIL's.

16.What’s your favorite item of clothing? My Saint Mary's sweatshirt!

17. Do you think Rice Krispies are yummy? Depends on who is making them.

18. What would you do if you saw $100 lying on the ground? Try to see if I could find out who it belonged to.

19. What items could you not go without during the day? Singing the Jessica song every night-even when I a gone over the phone and listening to Ricky tell me about his day and get mad if I forget to ask him about his.

20. What should you be doing right now? Doing lesson plans as I am off to Reno tomorrow!

Peace

The TRIBE has spoken!

Last week the Missoula Children's Theater visited Mc Swain for the fourth year in a row. Well, Jessica was casted as the leader of the Tribe-the very hairy frowny face tribe. She had practice every night until 7:30 p.m. They did a performance in front of the whole school on Friday and then two performances on Saturday. The play was Robinson Caruso. It was a great play and we were so VERY PROUD of her. I have included some pictures.

We love you JESSICA!

A Week in the Life

Well, although the week is not quite over, I am going to post about happenings before I forget. I am doing a scrapbooking challenge with Ali Edwards. I am also going to try and do Stacy Julian/Heidi Swapp's Challenge as it seems like something I will always have about ME and for ME.

So this week...

*Jessica got a role as part of the Tribe in Robinson Caruso
*Ricky ate a jalapeno at school and scared everyone and he probably will never eat one again.
*Ricky's soccer team lost.
*It rained.
*I am back on my yearly Pepsi kick-not good.
*I started a new tradition for my family...spooky plates and cups for the month. BOO!
*I love having breakfast at my mom's every morning!
*Jessica is having a publishing party in class as they just published their first books.
*My tooth hurts.
*I have 6 loads of laundry to fold and atleast 6 to do.
*I have been the Merced Bus for all the kids in the play.
*I watched how pencils are made...very cool.
*I am almost out of Cream of Wheat.
*My feet hurt.
*Getting my nails done Friday at 4
*Had a scoop of Rocky Road ice cream
*Finished and mailed my Circle Journal...to the wrong person!
*I am a dork
*I need to refill my meds.
*I have night lights strategically placed throughout the house.
*Can't wait to watch Private Practice
*Shared the Beatles with my students-"Let em In" (they loved it)
*Sing "You're Beautiful" with my students everyday
*Have not been in bed before midnight all week.
*Surprised Jessica today with dinner from Ben's.
*Loved her smile when she got her "Jessica chicken"
*Paid my city bill
*Made Jessica a really cool card for her publishing party
*2 Shows on Saturday
*Soccer is questionable
*Getting ready for Reno
* Grateful
*Wish I could remember more

Peace

The Hills are Alive...

Bravo to our Neighbor Vance!

Tonight my mom and I took Ricky and Jessica to see the Sound of Music. Jessica had seen the movie about a month ago and fell in love with it. When we heard it was showing at Playhouse Merced we decided we needed to go. After seeing the performance tonight, Ricky wants to see the movie.

We found out that our neighbor Vance was in it and played the part of Max. We were impressed and proud of him.

Great Job Vance!

From you Fall Brook Neighbors!

What Happened?

This week has been one of the roughest weeks I have ever experienced as a teacher. As the week unfolded I am puzzled at the ongoing lack of respect some of our students have. The rude comments, the potty talk, the unacceptable slurs and the lack of accountablitiy makes me wonder what is going on in these homes.

We ended our week with 2 police cars at our school. Ashamed and embarassed by what I see evolving at my second "home." I saw fear and panic in my own two children's eyes as they witnessed this all unfold.

Parents call screaming, cussing and accusing because how dare we hold their child accountable for their disrespectful behavior. It is obvious where these children learn that it is okay to be rude .

I am grateful that nothing bad happened. I am even more grateful that my own two children are safe and eventhough they can be a bit mouthy at times, they know when enough is enough!

What happened to the days where students did not talk back to their teachers? What happened to those days where the parents supported the school? What happened to ths days when schools were safe?

I am thankful that the majority of parents do care and hold their children accountable. I am thankful for those children that are respectful and are there to learn. I am thankful that I am a teacher and hopefully can continue to make a difference.

I just sit back sometimes though and wonder,

what happened?

Peace to all.

m

Grateful

So grateful that Richard and I were able to witness Ricky helping Jessica with her homework and the two of them laughing and smiling. Didn't get an actual photo,but trust me, that one is stored in our heart.

So grateful that my CE Sisters from Texas are safe and sound.

So grateful that I teach 6th Graders-they keep me going.

So grateful for the network of friends I made and how we are still so present in each others lives.

So grateful that Team Bazzill sent me all of my lost supplies from CE.

So grateful that Laurie Stamas mentioned me and my kiddos on her blog. The kids love the daily challenge.

So grateful that Ricky did not get scored on today against Weaver and they won 5-2.

So grateful that Jessica scored 2 goals this weekend an although she is not playing with her buddies, she is still having fun.

So grateful for my mom making us breakfast every morning.

So grateful that Aidan wants ME to put on his socks and shoes in the morning.

So grateful that Mac Kenna gives me two fists to kiss.

So grateful that PG & E did not turn off my electricity.

So grateful for my neighbor Jenn.

So grateful for Cream of Wheat...don't know why, but that just seems to be working for me.

So grateful for...



What are you grateful for?

9/11

Remembering all those affected by the tragedy of 9/11 on that terrible day seven years ago.....the injured, the terrified, and those who died.....and the families and friends they left behind. Peace and God Bless America

Home...Again...Gratefully

Well, I cannot even begin to share the incredible time I had with my new Creative Escape sisters this past week. Arizona was wonderful...so want to move there.

Flew into Arizona via Portland Oregon Wednesday morning. I know I went WAY out of my way but my airline miles expire October 1st and I could not see them go to waste.

Checked into a beautiful room at the Wild Horse Pass Resort. Off to Shannon's room so we could get all of the festivities of the Yahoo! Board going. We heard that there was a Tim Holtz sighting at the bar so off we went to check him out. It was quite humorous to see all these women gawk over him...I sat on the couch and relaxed.

Did the Bazzill shopping trip on Thursday morning follwoing the Sprinkles Cupcake exchange. Picked up my favorite cookies at the Bread Basket Bakery and shopped some more at Scrapbooks Etc. (the nirvana for scrapbookers) Went to lunch with some fabulous women at Tia Rosa's. They were all from New York and we had a blast.

Creative Escape had officially started and we were off to see the Trunk Show, where the teachers showcase their work, and to Technique Boutique were we all had make and takes to complete.

The Yahoo! Party followed and that is where Secret Sisters, Candy Swapps, Page Swapps and alcohol were all mixed together. Off to Margartia Margie's room for some, well, margaritas. Her husband was literally on call to those caring for a libation.

We were in class all day Friday and Saturday. The food was awesome, even for someone picky. Still cannot believe that I was lucky enough to go back again this year. Have already started putting in my prayers for next year. It is absolutely the most incredible come together of incredible women from all over the world!

Flew home Sunday night via Seattle...airline miles. Made it back to Fall Brook Court around midnight. So sad that it all came to an end.

Went to see Dr. Carter today, nose is doing well, back in 30 days.

I know it sounds silly, but stop and be grateful today. Find something that ticked you off and put a little spin on it...trust me, you will smile.

Until next time, have a super fabulous day and be grateful because life is a journey. There are wrong turns and there are speed bumps. Of course there is always "Mapquest and On Star" to help along the way but only you can make the most of it because at the end of the day be grateful for what you have and the path that it took to get there.

Peace

When you get up in the middle of the night...turn on the light!

It is 2:05 a.m. this past Thursday. I get up to go to the restroom. Wash my hands and am off to bed when WHAM! SLAM! SCREAM! I have just dove nose first into my bathtub. Yep, the bathtub. I will avoid the yucky details, but it was not pretty. My scream woke Richard up and he could not believe what he saw. Me completely folded up inside our tub.

After the whole scene was cleaned up and I was laying in bed with an icepack on my nose, I realized what Marsha Brady felt like. It was not a pretty sight. Richard and I laughed about it, because there was not much else we could do now that the tears had flown.

So off I went to the doctors on Thursday to confirm that yes, the nose was fractured... and quite nicely. I did find some positives out of the whole experince though. One being-there was no damage to my teeth. Two, I did not go through the glass or there would have been only half of me left. Three, that I was not knocked unconscious and was able to scream so that I was not left there till the morning alarm went off.

Today I went to see Dr. Carter-surgery was needed. So at 2:10 today I was wheeled into the OR to get the nose repositioned and stabilized. Except for the Stormtrooper looking tape job, it is all good-must be the meds.

So after I told the story to my 6th Graders, I left them with this lifelong lesson...When you get up in the middle of the night...turn on the light!!

Bazzill Bound-7 Sleeps

In exactly one week I will be off. Off to the craziest, 5 days of margaritas, scrapbooking and maybe a repeat of last years cannon ball competition. I am so excited and although many don't get the whole scrapbooking thing-it is my haven.

As Jessica would say, "I only have 7 sleeps left." It's as if Christmas was a week away...

Peace and a whole lot of fabulousness!

Happy Birthday Neighbors!

Just sending out a Birthday shout out to my awesome neighbors Mark and Kyle. Hope you had a fabulous day! Great to see that Grandma Joan came. We are so lucky to have the BESTEST NEIGHBORS in the WHOLE WORLD!!!

Happy Birthday guys!

1976

Does underwear grown on trees?

Last night, Ricky, Jessica and Richard were swimming. Ricky came in mortified. Richard had tossed his underwear over the fence. I hoped they were clean! Later Jessica and Richard came in laughing about it...Jessica said, "daddy, tomorrow that little girl over there is going to ask her mom why underwear is growing on their tree."

The underwear was rescued in the darkness of night so no child was traumatized by seeing a pair of black boxers hanging from their tree.

Today we went to see "Mama Mia." It was my first introduction to the whole Mama Mia Mania of the Delgado family. Ricky and Jessica have seen the actual Broadway show three times and my mom has seen it 11 times in places like London, S.F., New York, Vegas, and Fresno just to name a few venues. It was a cute movie and now I too am in on the mania. My goal is to see the actual show.

Peace for now and have a fabulous week!

One World-Cheetah Style

Well, last night was the big premiere of the Cheetah Girls, "One World." In keeping with the tradition of Disney premiers, we had our premiere part complete with pizza, popcorn and capri suns. Grandma Jennie came to join us as we pulled out the blankets, pillows and pjs. It was a cute show and Jessica was thrilled because we have been doing the "just how many sleeps left?" for atleast 30 days! To top things off, she Tivoed it so we have watched it another 3 times today.

We just finished an impromptu game of soccer in the middle of the court. Ricky and I won 4-0 over Jessica and Richard. I now know why shin guards were invented as I believe my daughter damaged the three top levels of my lower legs epidermis with a major kick!

School is going well. Don't want to jinxit but I have 4 groups of really good kids. Not something that is easy to say after the first week but these kids are cool.

Ricky likes 6th Grade. He is in an all boys class and seems to like it. I can't believe in two years he is off to high school.

Jessica was blessed to get the best 2nd grade teacher that Mc Swain has to offer. She got Mrs. Van Horn and I can't tell you how happy and excited she was when she saw who her teacher was. Ricky was happy for her as he had her as a teacher as well.

Max continues to jump in the pool and as neighbor Jenn says, he tries to show off. It's like he is saying, "hey, look at what I can do."

Something is going on with Fenway as he will no longer jump up onto the bed. He needs help so I am a bit concerned. He seems fine otherwise.

Well, I need to go throw in another load of laundry. Didn't do it for 8 days-not good. Plus throw in all the bedding and let me tell you, my washer, dryer and I have become one today!

Peace and have a FABULOUS day.

New York Pix 1

As promised, here are a few photos from the first few days that Jessica, my mom and I were in New York. Cooperstown will follow...

Jessica enduring our first flight complication... a 2 hour delay in Sacramento.

Post American Girl damage.

FAO

Some of Jessica's favorite places!

Having some issues posting pictures. I need to plan for next week. Will post more later.

Home...

Well, this will be brief and without pictures. New York was awesome. We saw "Wicked" and "Mary Poppins." We did the American Girl thing and rode the "red double decker bus." (One of Jessica's must do things when she is in NY-she just loves the thing and we never got off-we just went in a BIG circle around the city and she took pictures and smiled the whole time)

We saw Miley on the Today show. There were some insane parents that had actually camped out ALL night and then LEFT before she came on because there were too many people. Whatever!

Jessica had a great time. Girl got a $5 umbrella when we were leaving "Wicked" due to the torrential, and I do mean torrential downpour. I never knew that all I had to do was spend $5 and the kid would be so stinkin' happy. I am glad that we had those three days together and were able to focus on just her before we were off to the land of baseball.

All was well until I got a phone call from Ricky that their flight had been cancelled and that they were stuck at JFK. Between lost luggage, a last minute $350 ticket, a "malfunction" with the airplane, sitting on the tarmac for an hour and a 6 hour drive for Richard, my dad and MIL, Jennie we all made it to Cooperstown. Ricky's equipment and luggage were lost. I almost "lost it" in the airport. I was either going to cry or be very unprofessional. I tried breathing, I tried acting like it would all be okay and then, to what did my ears hear, but it was "Dancing Queen" on the airport radio and I started to sing and dance. I did not care what the hundreds of people thought. Little did they know that was their salvation...salvation from not seeing a crazy Mexican go ballistic and end up either on Youtube or on the news for going psycho.To make matters worse, my son traveled to NY with no shoes-just cleats and shower shoes for 2 weeks.

Ricky did not place in the Home Run Derby. He was a bit sad but his team placing 3rd out of 96 teams in the "around the horn" competition made him feel much better. His first at bat on Sunday morning he went yard and crushed the ball over the fence for his first of four homeruns during week 1. The 11 year-old Blue Devils ended up 30th out of 96 teams-please remember that they were playing against 12 and 13 year olds. The team that knocked them out eventually won it all and are a baseball academy out of Florida. Ricky pitched against them and was the only pitcher in the tourney that did not allow a homerun, struck out two and gave up no runs.

Week 2 the 12's came and they faired a lot better ending up 5th out of 99 teams. Ricky hit 2 more home runs. His bat did well and he had a great time. We went back to the Hall of Fame and saw Barry Bond's asterisk ball. It was not there during week 1.

Jessica turned 8 on the 4th. We clebrated by going to Sal's (pizza equal to Pizza Villa but NY style) and then her and her Nana baked her cake. We took her to the Soccer Hall of Fame and to Cooperstown Family Fun Park. Her three days in New York City were also part of her celebration. Her favorite food in NYC-a Dunkin Donut!

Finally we made it home late Saturday night missing 7 pieces of luggage-the saga continued. Jessica and I stayed in Sacramento at the Marriott so we could get some school shopping done as I had no clue that Mc Swain started on the 12th!

It was a great 17 days...would do it again in a heartbeat. Next year will be Ricky's last year to play in Cooperstown. They want to play two weeks and are in the process of building, what he calls... a powerhouse team. Oh to be 12 and have that be your biggest concern.

Our family made a lot of great memories. We laughed, ate good, laughed some more. It was definitely a trip that will be forever remembered by all.

44 hours, 2 minutes-2,914.10 miles to our future home

As you can see, I am once again procrastinating! The clock is ticking quickly before I am to board Jet Blue, Tuesday evening. There is so much craziness in trying to prepare for this trip. We are not rookies, so this year it is easier, except, we are staying two weeks. Gone, for a total of 17 days!

Today I started-and just finished Jessica's birthday banner. She is not to thrilled about being in Cooperstown for her birthday. Hence, the three day jaunt prior. I made a banner for Ricky's team and have done maybe 7-8 loads of laundry. I have also had to make sure that this goes in Ricky's carry on, but that one can't. (especially his three bats)

Jessica is packed. Thank goodness she can take care of herself-she is definitely my mom's grandchild. We did a check and girl had it all together. She is especially excited about American Girl. We are having brunch there on Thursday. I so put off the reservations but was lucky that they had "a few small tables left." Like I was supposed to give the lady on the phone my left kidney.

My goal tonight is to be completelty packed. Since it is 11:20 p.m. it could be a late one. Ricky is just about done. Then there is mine. Richard will pack Wednesday night. I need to get it done or I am going to scream. I am tired of the chaos that comes with getting ready.

This will be our home for the next two weeks. We drove past it many times last year and so I stopped in to check it out. Seems like a great place and this year we will actually have a house and not that nightmare of a Bed & Breakfast. I am looking forward to having a kitchen and laundry room-I know my mom and MIL will use them well.

One Week Left

Amazing that in one week we will once again be walking the streets of Cooperstown. It is crazy that one sport drives our family like the sport of baseball does.

All is well here. Jessica has done a fabulous job of recovering from her tonsil surgery. I am a bit sick of cooking and eating macaroni and cheese. I swear if I see anothe box of Kraft Mac & Cheese...I am going to lose it. My mom taught her how to make it although I am right there with her to make sure we don't end up with any unnecessary 3rd degree burns.

One of my most favorite reality shows kicked off it's 5th season last night and I am so happy as we were able to tell what episode was what before it even started. Diggy is a household favorite. Can you sing and dance to "Jump on It?" Go Neighbor Noah Go!

Well, that is about it for now. I am going to go watch Hopkins and Swingtown. Maybe do some laundry. I am procrastinating, that is what I am doing. I will pack, I will. Just not tonight!

So long Williamsport

Well, we lost tonight. Ricky pitched well and did his job but unfortuantely they came up short. I guess we will be watching the Little League World Series from our couch on Fall Brook Court.

We are down one team and our schedule a bit alleviated.

Two weeks from today the Cooperstown adventure begins.

I am very proud of Ricky. He did his job and he truly was an All-Star. I love you son!

I know the "s" is missing

I know the "s" in baseball is missing, but considering it took me over an hour to post-the "s" will just have to stay missing!

Baeball, Tonsils and Birthdays

July has started off with a bang! Jessica had her All-Star Game and not only did she do well, she had a great time. She finally got to play catcher but realized the position was too hot and from now on can be seen working on her pitching technique with her dad.We also got some crazy news-Jessica is going to have her tonsils out next Monday, the 7th. It was so crazy and quick but Dr.Carter was able to get it done at Children's.

On that same evening, Ricky's team won. He hit a home run that night so everyone went to bed happy!

On the 3rd, Richard turned 43. Due to Ricky's team winning the night before, all party plans were put on hold. We were off to Chowchilla for the big game. Ricky had to play against one of his teammates from his Fresno team. Ricky went 2-4 and his team won. Richard was happy and had nachos and a blue icee to celebrate.

On the 4th we were off to Babu's for a barbecue. We had a good time and ate too much. Since some of our Fall Brook neighbors were gone, we had a smaller celebration. We all missed Mark's patriotic show.

Saturday and Sunday were filled with trips to Fresno for...yep, baseball. While Ricky was at practice on Saturday, Jessica and I were able to see the "Kit Kittredge" movie. It was a great movie and she is even more excited about her trip to the All-American Girl Store.

On Monday, the 7th, we were off to Children's to have Jessica's tonsils taken out. She was a real trooper but would not allow her picture to be taken after she came out of surgery. Despite her drowsiness and pain, her manners were there and the nurse was impressed. We were home by 3 and the popsicles and jello quickly became our friends!

Ricky had a game that night and they won! It was an exciting game that I listened to over the phone. He came in with bases loaded, they scored a run and he then got them out of that inning. He hit another homerun. He proceeded to strike out three batters in a row and then struck out the last batter to win the game! Go Atwater!

So here we are 12 years later and it is Ricky's birthday. He was off to Fresno for practice, came home rested and had another game in Atwater. They beat Madera and will play their nemesis, Turlock, Thursday night.On Wednesday, we finally got to celebrate Ricky's birthday with the family. Grandma Jennie made enchiladas and tacos and despite not feeling well, Jessica made sure her brother had his ice-cream cake.

Jessica is doing well and has handled this whole surgery thing like a champion. One thing I have learned through this whole process with her is she is very INDEPENDENT. At times it is a bit frustrating, but as Richard said, "I wonder where she got that from?"

2:21:00 PM
by 78968400mom

The life of a rookie blogger

As I spent time at the computer today,trying and trying to get this whole blogging thing right, I asked myself is it worth it? I could be doing the laundry, I could be watching tv, I could be scrapbooking or maybe even taking a nap. But thanks to my two neighbors, Jenn and Patricia, here I sit with a quiet house still grimacing because I can't get it right. I will fgure it out-eventually. But at what cost? Piles of laundry, a full TIVO, 20,000 pictures waiting to be cropped and glued. Life is what it is and at this point I am a rookie. I don't care for that status and will continue. I may not blog often, but I will get it.

Thanks to Neighbor Jenn who told me about the background for this blog. While it is a bit obnoxious-it is the closest thing to Disney that I could find. I guess with each passing day, progress will occur.

On the other side of life that does not require a computer, today was Jennie's 73rd Birthday. We had a barbecue, cupcakes and of course watched Fresno State.

Jessica had her last league game tonight and although they lost by one run, it was by far their best game over. Jessica played awesome defense and CRUSHED the ball several times. She has her All-Star Game next Tuesday and we are all excited for that.

Off to the cabin and a bit of "Baseball Heaven"

Off to the cabin and a bit of "Baseball Heaven" Jessica was off to the cabin this weekend with her Babu and family. They had a great time and didn't mind the rain, lightning or hail. Her favorite was the yummy cinnamon rolls that they had for breakfast. She was a bit sad as they scattered Bernie's ashes up on the mountain. He was such a great "Berndog!

Ricky's team went 1-1 and we were glad that it was not an actual tournament considering in Fresno it was 107 degrees. The boys had a great time like they always do when they are together. It is hard to believe that in 6 weeks it will be Opening Day in Cooperstown which will actually be two years to the day that Ricky was admitted to Children's.

A former Fresno Blue Devil, Alan Ahmady, made it along with the Fresno State Bulldogs to the College World Series. It is cool to have a tie to such an incredible accomplishment in the world of baseball. Go Dogs! (although I wish it would have been Saint Marys!)This week starts off with baseball and more baseball and finishes off with a tournament next weekend, the first on Ricky's quest to get to the Little League World Series.

Bon Voyage!

We just returned from our 7 day Mexican Riviera Cruise on the Disney Magic. It was absolutely incredible and there was Disney "magic" everywhere. Ricky and Jessica had no clue that they were going on a cruise and that made it even more special. We met a lot of nice people on the ship and look forward to keeping in touch with them. (maybe they will even read my blog...that was a Fall Brook Court joke)

Now that we are home we have settled into our daily routine of ...baseball. Both Jessica and Ricky made the All-Star team and we are proud of both of them. Ricky is gearing up for the All-Star Tournaments and also for Cooperstown.

We are glad to be back at home but wouldn't mind being back on the ship. We were upgraded twice and ended up with a big stateroom with a verandha. I keep hoping that the beds here at home will magically get made and that someone will leave chocolates on my pillow...we are all looking forward to another cruise...and soon!