Another Set of Babies For Me!

If you can imagine taking on two unbelievably adorable purebreed Shi Tzus, then it's like having two more babies in the house.

We have always talked about having a dog. For so many years, after playing with or seeing cute, small, big and gorgeous dogs, we would come back and have one unreachable gift we utter: "We should get a dog for Christmas." It was no different this year; except our Christmas wish was realized two days ago when one of Mr. Man's co-worker gave us two! Totally FREE!!! The biggest and the runt of the litter. Two balls of energy. Two boys.

Since we've been all about Mythology here later, the bigger one was named ZEUS and the little one, was named PERCY. Ring a bell? LOL

Without further ado... ZEUS and PERCY!

ZEUS (Gray, brown and white-all fluff) / PERCY (Black and white-petite)

Mr. Man introducing our cockatiel, Dexter to the new members of our family. Cece, our cat is still waiting for the verdict of she likes them or not. Hee hee...
I-Dude and J-Pony totally surprised when they came home from school and discovered the puppies! And instantly fell in love!
We are so grateful for these puppies; they are adorable and quickly made us fall in love with them. Sometimes, a family is never complete until a barking furball come scuttling behind you.

To say a big THANK YOU to Chad and his family for these cuties, I baked them Chocolate Almond Bread. Hope they like it!

Enjoy your pets! They need love, too!

Academic Family

Sometimes, good luck strikes you once, sometimes, twice. But in our case, good luck hit three times:

Our children, L-Infinity(17), J-Pony(10) and I-Dude(7) all came in differing circumstances by the time they were born though all were C-section babies and breastfed for two years minimum. All walked within 12 months. Only two managed cow's milk, while one couldn't handle dairy at all without breaking out in hives with other food allergies and respiratory episodes. But the glaring things they all have in common are their individual and similar academic prowess.

ALL THREE:
-Started reading at or just after each turned 2 years old
-Strong ROTE learners, but adaptive to 7 intelligences practice
-Have multiple artistic outlets (singing, drawing, origami, dancing, dimensional art)
-Are avid readers and share the love of the same titles
-Are strong Spellers and have high aptitude for Math
-Qualified and are enrolled in GATE or LEAP (TX) programs
-Are actively involved in school activities (Multi-Cultural Night, Choir, STUCO, Safety Patrol, NHS, AC/DEC)
-Received multiple A Honor Rolls and consistently within the Top 10% of their Grades
-Represented their schools or class (Spelling Bee, Geography Bowl, AC/DEC, UIL)
-Had been hand-picked for advanced programs in school
-Tutored classmates and peers over various subjects
-Helped peers learn how to read or read better

Mr. Man and I, very early on in our marriage established a house of learning and a house of faith. Our tactics were simple: supplement and challenge; redirect and expect focus; talk, listen and learn along with them. That means we work together in giving them the best advantage and push them to their potential while avoiding the damage of over-parenting.

Our parenting style is as typical as most LDS households- strict, traditional, family and cultural-oriented but always fair...

I don't brag about my children academically (though I share them) because good grades and high accomplishments are part of their lives. But if I am to brag about anything about them, is that they also share a love for the simple life that we live and do not get caught up (too much) in what others have that they don't.

To my children, I will always be grateful. Their presence in my life are continuous proof that THERE IS A LIVING, LOVING AND INTELLIGENT GOD.

I couldn't ask for anything more...

SH Days 10, 11, 12 & 13 Snow's On!

Well since there was nothing much to report, I figured I'd just stack them all in one post!

Mostly leftovers for all three meals each day and since insomnia was a battle this week, the kiddos had had to help me get some sleep in the afternoons. All were really patient with me this week though errands quite interrupted much of that slumber plans.

The insomnia totally messed with my appetite and the smell of food in the house made me nauseous. We had to eat out on Tuesday or I starve. We had no choice but to get out of the house. J-Pony needed a new backpack while we are still looking for comparable towels to replace the ones "tainted" by the bathroom flooding. L-Infinity was sick with a nasty "morning assaulter" tummy bug that would render her knocked out for most of the day, after "hugging the porcelain throne" in the morning, on Tuesday and Wednesday! Poor baby! She's also had to babysit these last two Fridays, so that's good.

Then on Wednesday night, we had a snowstorm forecast and by 3AM Thursday, it started to snow! All day Thursday! Look at these! (I also posted in Facebook)

These two were in the afternoon, the beginnings of our 24-hour "Winter Wonderland"! Gorgeous day!

By 11PM, I was still thrilled that I actually told Mr. Man that I just couldn't complain!
See how happy I look? (I was barefeet, too!)
That's not a bad photo, but rather snowing coupled with mild shivering. lol
I-Dude and J-Pony were busy making origami Valentine cards since it was "make your own" kind of theme this year. Too bad they didn't get to use them since our school district declared a two-day Snow Day due to our snowstorm. Lots of slush out there!

Today was filled with errands... We've decided to start looking at houses in our area to see if we can stay within the boundaries of our church ward. I don't know about you but it is such a draining process for me! Whew! More to look at until we find just the right one...

Also, we received in the mail that J-Pony, who placed 2nd in her school's Geography Bowl will be joining her friend, and winner, Nathan, to represent their school in the upcoming District Geography Bowl in March! And... it's on a Wednesday morning so that means, Mr. Man and I can go! Yay!!!

Food Budget Trick: Many don't eat Spam, but it is economical, delicious and a good substitute for bacon or ham. I use it when I don't have bacon or when I want to spare my bacon for another day but is craving some. Fat wise, it is easily controlled, you can slice it very thin and have an instant "bacon" like and egg breakfast fare or it's a quick substitute for stir-fry meats, when cubed small. One can, has fed me and my family for two meals. Now that's a great deal!

Our fave way to use it is in fried rice. I use half a can of Spam, two eggs, 4-5 cups of cooked rice, 1 cup of peas and carrots, garlic salt and 1 tbsp. of oil.

That's only $2.59 for the whole dish and for a family of five, that's only 52 cents a plate!

Well, folks... One more day and we'd be done with our Shopping Hiatus! Whew!

Oh, by the way, "the project's" done and was posted at my other blog, What Now? Tablescapes, called "A Bit of Morocco for Valentine's". Come see and tell me what you think.

HAPPY WEDDING ANNIVERSARY TO Mr. Man's parents! We love you, Mom and Dad!

And we have a new nephew! Gary and Kate (Mr. Man's only and older sister), just had their 3rd baby and 2nd son, yesterday evening. Garrison clocked in at 8 lbs. 7 oz. Wow! Congrats to their big siblings, Taryn and Carter!

Have a great weekend!

Two for Two?

Yup, people, my hubby's two for two today!

Wait, that's not what I mean... (whatever it is you're thinking)

The fact is... I'm not a "birthday celebratin' on the day of your birthday kind of gal", so my hubby and I decided to go on a "Birthday Date" that turned out to be "Dates" (plural people)! One in the afternoon and one at night! (a rarity among rarities in our married history so of course, I'd blog about it! )

We both wanted to watch the movie, Avatar. So we did... in 3D and IMAX! We found a theater in Dallas that showed it and still gave us enough time to pick up the kiddos after school. We quickly purchased the tickets after lunch at Whataburger nearby. I sooo recommend it! (my own waterworks started and flowed near the end, it was so good!)

Proof it was IMAX... lol (that's just the middle of the screen)
Our 3D glasses... (we took pics when we had them on, but it was so dark, all you could see of me is my nose and the glare of the overhead lights- on my forehead!... not a pretty picture...)
And my gorgeous date, complete with his own tub of popcorn! (I was good, I had water) I wore an eggplant colored top, denim capris and eggplant colored ankle heeled boots. I also had my hair in a tight pony. I looked movie ready!

Then, tonight... We dressed up a bit and went to our second date, a nice dinner out. Of course, we opted for seafood (one of my kryptonites) and had a great time sampling the generous (and mouth-watering) portions at our nearby Papadeaux Seafood Kitchen. This time, we were in the Restaurant Row of Dallas, a little closer to where we live. The place was packed, but we got seated right away. We had a great time!

Look at this fountain at their entrance. Wowie! It's inside a portico side entry.
Once inside, we started our dinner with some beefsteak tomato salad with blue cheese crumbles. Yum!
For cocktails, Mr. Man got a pina colada daquiri while I opted for the strawberry one. The V version, of course!

I tried their current special-- Lobster Lafitte, it's half a rock lobster, head-to-tail stuffed with crawfish, shrimp and crab then topped with lobster meat and a scrumptious creamy sauce of my choice (lemon caper). It was paired with some crawfish etouffe. Of course, neither of us finished what we ordered, they were on massive platters! (this is what's leftover of mine. Mr. Man's Crawfish Trio platter looked just as full.)

And here we are! See? completely different looking! :-) I went for a "totally blinged-out" look because I've never really done it before. It was actually a lot of fun. I put on a silver top with black slacks.

Mr. Man went for "I'm her eye-candy" in a rugged casual way. Loved it! (And I think our young female server thought so, too! She refilled his soda, praised him for trying crawfish for the first time and was thoroughly helpful. Me, she didn't come around with a water pitcher for refills and my clutch that she asked me to move when the dishes came only got complimented after we asked for take home boxes. How cute...)

To not look so formal, I opted for simple jewelry like this choker I found at Kohl's today. I also donned a silver clutch, to hold my cell phone and lipstick. :-D
and silver dress sandals, but for my lips, toes and nails, I went copper!
I looked and felt like a million bucks, but in reality, my piggy bank barely noticed I dipped in. ;-)

What a great day! I hope you and your sweetie can indulge in a "two for two" very soon. It is worth it and so much fun!

Til' next time!

Sweet "Handle" on Things...

We had a fairly stressful day today... A couple of meetings for me, lack of sleep for Mr.Man and stomach viruses. *sigh*

But tonight, despite the rigors of daily grind, we were reminded what Christmas is truly about- the birth of Jesus Christ and in the "Legend of the Candy Cane", we were reminded how one person used his talent, candymaking, to honor Him and what He symbolizes.

The J shape for Jesus and the Shepherd's crook

White for His purity and love for us

Red stripes- small ones for his suffering and a big one for His blood shed for our sins

Sweet and minty- His promise of eternal life is both delicious and refreshing to take in.

May this Christmas time remind all of us that Jesus Christ, our Savior was born first so He can rescue us according to His Father's plan and honoring that divine birth is worth the symbols we adorn our homes with one month a year...

I'm Grateful For... #5

Temples and Eternal Marriage... Both keeps my faith strong and propels me to do better each day.

I'm Grateful For... #4

In-Laws and Cousins! More love to go around and give to. Gotta love that!

Thirteen (13) Years of Bliss

Hello! I'm just excited to be able to have time to blog again today. Not consistently just yet as we are in the middle of several big projects towards another move next year.

Today, since we all had a late night, our breakfast date became a lunch date. Mr. Man treated me to one of the nice upscale bbq place in Dallas called Dunston's Prime Steakhouse that SWA employees go to for all occasion. (Look at that dining room!)

(Photo courtesy of Dallas Dines Out dot com)
Again, we had a romantic moment: we were seated on the backwall where all the booths were and in the middle. We were the only ones on that wall... Left alone to enjoy our time together, to talk about life, together... We had the typical bbq lunch selection: bbq, potatoes, salad, soda, but the atmosphere and the great price... The bbq was nothing short of delish! I was in total awe that I forgot to have the server take our picture. Maybe next year... or next time since Mr. Man wants to take me there again (I say, "yay!")

The above was their bbq pit; the mesquite logs are both fired and cooled here; notice the ice cubes? The inside is naturally dark, so I took a risk by having the flash on to capture this part of the restaurant. It was worth it! Below is the entrance... Doesn't that fire just beckon you to sit down and relax? I was blown away for sure!
Like most young couples starting out, we were dirt poor, but Mr. Man and I have always admired good restaurants and imagine what it would be like to sample their menu. Each year, for the first 9 years, and our 11th year, though without any funds, we would imagine the next year and the real possibility of going to such places. I love Chinese and seafood and he loves a good steak, so this year, after pinching enough pennies (and I mean, pinching!) to afford two restaurants that he wanted to try, were gifts that we have both sacrificed for, to give each other.

I don't like jewelry much, and I'm too practical to accept just any household gift and too lazy to shop to pin down any store GC. I'm a flowers girl, but being married to Mr. Man who is practical and loves restaurants, I've learned to not expect flowers and chocolate. I get my own during the holidays or as centerpiece when I can afford it or on occasional splurge. He has probably bought and brought me more pens than he's ever thought of flowers. I have chocolate hidden in our bedroom that it's no longer a special item so just being able to go out by ourselves have been our annual vow renewal, and each penny we spend becomes that much more valuable to us...

Here's a caption of our past anniversary celebrations.

1st year- I cooked and shared the top of our wedding cake. That was so much fun!

2-9 years- we just stayed in, I cooked or we saw a movie; also because we moved several times.

10th- he earned his free stay at the Phoenician Resort where he used to work, and we were treated to a wonderful and romantic day of luscious seafood, mouthwatering steaks, desserts to die for, romantic music and the room was next to a waterfall in a secluded part of the villas. It was magical! All for FREE!!! (There was no way we could have afforded The Phoenician let alone the food!)

11th- I cooked and we watched a movie together over ice cream

12th- We went to Maggiano's, a fine Italian restaurant. Of course, we both had something with shrimp. ;-)

Ok, onto the bliss part... We love our life together, despite challenges that befall any marriage. We always come out more in love with another with each passing year.

Each anniversary, I am filled with sheer gratitude to have landed such a wonderful man. In the Philippines, we have a saying, "it doesn't matter if all we have is salt, as long as we are together." That's how I feel about my husband, I'll do anything for him, go anywhere with him. Sure, there's Valentine's in February, but for us, our wedding anniversary is ours, no one else's and it is our time to reassess, review and relive what makes us, us.

Mr. Man has always been my rock, my hero that always knew he wanted to give me the world. He once told me that if he can give me the stars and the moon, he would because he loves me. That was the very first time he's ever told me he loved me and I remember that statement with every "I love you". I couldn't imagine my life without him nor will there ever be anyone after him- hence my threat (though lovingly) "he simply can't die." ;-)

Being with him opened up different sides of who I am; every day, he helps me believe and have faith that my Heavenly Father sees me as a special soul.

"Happy 13th wedding anniversary, Mahal. Every day with you brings me that much closer to the stars and the moon... I love you."

What Calling?!

... Is exactly what Mr. Man and I are asking ourselves lately. One of the Bishop's counselors came by to give our daughter, L-Infinity, a new calling- Laurel's 1st Counselor. Then when that was done, I was told that the Bishopric has been thinking about our family and several callings that we can serve in, but which one, only Heavenly Father knows...

Well... at least for Mr. Man, they have him for 3 months guaranteed. After that, it depends on what Southwest Airlines will afford him for new days off. As for me, I really hope that they don't find anything new until almost Thanksgiving; I'll be done with this semester by then and I can honestly say that I'll have more mind power and devotion for whatever lies ahead. Whatever the callings may be, I know that it's been impressed to our leaders that my husband and I can measure up to our potential to fulfill the necessary tasks of the calling. What a humbling experience to have one of our leaders take the time to grace our home with his sweet spirit doing the Lord's errands...

I also do have the last General Conference to be grateful for... All of the speakers, especially the First Presidency, spoke of looking inwards to bring out the best person to emulate Christ in efforts of service and practice of our religion. What a marvelous and timely counsel to all of today's souls who are quick to be trapped by modern conveniences and technologically advanced toys. Yesterday, as I kneaded the dough to make french breads, I couldn't be more grateful for my two hands, willing to be dirtied to bring forth food to the table. I was humbled by the fact that when our Savior Jesus Christ was on the earth, he didn't choose to reveal His full magnificence that His two hands can bestow; that He trusted us enough to find our way back to Him and His father's kingdom.

I testify of His divinity and unconditional love for all of us. Eternal life and happiness, His constant promise if we but to have willing hearts and opened eyes to be more like Him... In his name, I leave these thoughts with you, Amen.

I'm Addicted to Baking! (Really!)

Ok, confession time... Way back when I was a new bride, one main reason that would keep me awake at night were actually two things: "What does it mean to be a Mormon wife?" and "I hope he doesn't like homemade breads." Silly right? Not to me; at the time, those really worried me! I even thought if I cook well enough, he won't ask me to bake anything. Didn't work...

I was scared to find out, IF, my new hubby, "Mr. Proper Mormon RM Man", expected me to be this "quick learner" in the ways of being a Mormon wife. I've heard the horror stories of "barefoot and pregnant while smiling all the while" stereotyping of the so-called, "Molly Mormons". Or the often preached, "be meek and submissive to your husband" bits all my life as well as in the church. I thought, "Not me, I definitely wasn't that kind of a personality. I can and do speak my mind!" But that wasn't the cause of my "wake up sweating" moments, it's the "homemade bread" thing.

I was really naive about what LDS wives learn and end up mastering since I heard and see a lot of talented women in every ward I've been in. It was dizzying to take that all in! One fact, I knew, I didn't know how to make bread and let's just say that the first time he mentioned it, I felt cold all over! I knew I couldn't bake outside of brownies and I was soooo pathetic with cookies. "Bread? Bread?!" (My earlier attempts, I made some of the Filipino dinner rolls a couple of times, and each batch turned out like rocks. They were awful!) You have no idea how much I researched and produced gourmet sandwiches to distract him from wanting homemade breads. LOL But he always managed to mention it and hoped that I would keep trying.

But now that I've conquered my fear of baking and I don't really know how it got started (oh yeah, with his banana bread, back in Gilbert, AZ using the recipe from a Dole Bananas packaging). It was a total "exhale and celebrate" moment when my very first loaf of white bread turned out great! I'm sure you picked up on that from my previous posts. ;-)

So, in honor of that, I got brave and made Honey Wheat Bread! Yes, I crossed over to wheat flour! My own recipe, too! *woot woot* See, see? (sorry poor quality pics, cell had to do, left the cam in the van and hubby took the van)

While I was doing that, the girls decided to make some cookies! Chocolate chip cookies, the recipe, from the back of the Blue Bonnet Baking Margarine box. They were delicious! We shared some with the neighbors!
Ok, back to the sandwich bread... I-Dude and J-Pony helped me knead the dough. It was fun having the kids help. I will definitely have them help again next time.

(Psst... see the container, that's from IKEA, and I'm so lovin' that line that next week, I will buy some more of the tall ones to hold another kind of flour because I'll be making "Multi-Grain" next! And I just realized that I can make my own oat flour by putting the rolled variety into a food processor! Cool and money saving, perfect combo!)

This is what it looked like when it came out! While it was baking, I could smell the honey. See it's imperfection, just fine with me and Mr. Man, when I texted it to him, thought it looked delish!
Here's the heel, look at the inside! Doesn't that look like the commercial sandwich breads? It came out soft and subtly sweet from the honey. mmmm...

So now you know a little bit more of why I am so addicted to baking breads now. It was a fear to conquer! And guess what? I have hubby in love with me more... I can't sing him to sleep or scrapbook well enough to grace any magazine, but I can bake sandwich breads and it's making my marriage that much better! A nice bonus, for sure! LOL It keeps him wanting to come home after a hectic half week at work... I love that man! (And it helped that I aced my three different stints with Chemistry: HS Chemistry (Philippines), HS Chemistry Honors (California) and Chemistry 101 in college(California))

Thanks for reading!

Goodbyes in Utah

Mr. Man was able to have Wednesday off during our vacation, so he took off today, in the morning. As part of his things to pack, I made sure that my hubs had enough to eat while he was at work. On our way, I sat next to him in the front seat of the truck and the whole time, I couldn't stop thinking about how weird it is for me to say goodbye to him just a few feet away from where he needs to go into to catch a plane.

I wanted to cry... I was glad that I-Dude cried quietly on the way back because I didn't want to cry in front of my FIL. He'll understand of course, but it was just so surreal that it hurt. I remember being the last one to get in the truck. J-Pony was entertained by her cousin, T, and my SIL, K, so I knew she was fine.

Then the kiddos stayed at my SIL's for the night and I find myself alone in the room we were staying at, quiet and peaceful. I knew the kids were having fun and M&D- ILs were enjoying their evening. Mom got me a book,

(Cover Browser dot com)
and it's such a good read! Of course, I didn't get to finish it though I wanted to. I was able to take a shower in peace and enjoy a bag of Hawaiian "Luau BBQ" Potato Chips, compliments of M&D.

I loved my day alone; but I also felt alone... Like I was missing something. Four somethings, precious somethings... I couldn't wait to fall asleep (yes, I had a hard time though it was quiet) so that Friday could come soon.

Cleaning and Cooking

We decided to stay in today, but we also went to the Library to renew our cards and pick up I-Dude's prescription at CVS. At home, we totally went OT mode on cleaning and reorganizing.

Just before we got crazy on the chores, we had our own version of "McMuffin". I toasted our English muffins and I added tomatoes for a healthier add-in. We powered up with OJ, water and vitamins.

I reorganized my dishes again to accomodate the ones we found in the storage. Yes, I have more in there... I also washed dishes and cooked our meals. Mr. Man was busy going through our MBd to pick out stuff he wants to bring with him to Chicago. We found a couple of his post-mission pictures from the Philippines. Let's just say I have a gorgeous hubby... (lucky me!) :-D

The kiddos, since L-Infinity also got sick today with a cough and congestion, got to have a free day. We played a round of Rummikub and watched a music video of the Crazy Frog as well as they played a detective game on the computer.

Out of 3.5lbs of thinly sliced ribeye steaks, I was able to make three dishes that yielded 6-9 meals for us in two to three days. How much was the meat? Only $6.85! I made our staple, Bistek, a Filipino beef steak with onion in soy sauce. You eat it with freshly steamed Jasmine rice. So good!

Mr. Man also craved Beef Stroganoff, so I made that but Rachel Ray's recipe fell flat for him. He had to call his mama (so cute) to ask her recipe and we discovered that the magic ingredient was ketchup for his pallet! ;-) I quickly rewrote the recipe and filed it away in the computer for future reference.


Then, to end the day, we also decided that some Rootbeer Floats would be a great dessert since we didn't have much of those this week. I topped each pilsner with Redi-whip and a blackberry. It was a nice tang to all that sweetness!

Of course, the day wouldn't be officially over unless we prayed for all of our needs, friends and loved ones.

We had a great day today; the sun was out, mildly breezy and we had minimal errands. I'm so grateful that I have a family that love to spend time with me, love my cooking and love to tell me their thoughts and feelings. That I have one of the greatest husbands in the world. I-Dude was able to get his treatments on time, J-Pony set the two alarms in their room to go off every four hours and Mr. Man's alarms also. L-Infinity even made sure that she took medication every six hours and drank lots of water.

Like I've mentioned in our family creed, "We don't have much money or the best of everything, but our kingdom is full of love, laughter and wonderful memories." We live this way, everyday...

How was your warm Saturday?

Sometimes, you just need to let it out...

I KNEW I LOVED YOU

by Savage Garden

Maybe it's intuition

But some things you just don't question

Like in your eyes

I see my future in an instant

And there it goes

I think I've found my best friend

I know that it might sound more than a little crazy

But I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you

I think I dreamed you into life

I knew I loved you before I met you

I have been waiting all my life

There's just no rhyme or reason

Only this sense of completion

And in your eyes

I see the missing pieces I'm searching for

I think I've found my way home

I know that it might sound more than a little crazy

But I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you

I think I dreamed you into life

I knew I loved you before I met you

I have been waiting all my life

(hoo....)

A thousand angels dance around you

(hoo...)

I am complete now that I've found you

(hoo...)

I knew I loved you before I met you

I think I dreamed you into life

I knew I loved you before I met you

I have been waiting all my life

(hoo...)

Repeat chorus 3x with chorus

Perspective on Motherhood

It is not until you become a mother that your judgment slowly turns to compassion and understanding. ~Erma Bombeck

Tonight, I attended a great friend's baby shower. It is her first child and the host is also pregnant but though they have the same "width", the host is due July while my friend is due late May.

We played two games: "Guess what's in the bag" and "Baby Animal Names". I smoked everyone on the second game with 12/15 right but with the first game, I only got 6/10. Given my three children are ages, 16, 9 and 7, but something about not getting all of them right bothered me. Almost laughable really cause I've been to two other showers where I also stunk in the same game. If anything, that should be the end of that, right? NO.

Each woman that chooses to be a mother doesn't necessarily become entitled to that lot. Many choose to still act single while they have a starving, bawling child. Some chokes their children with so much affection, the poor kid can't talk straight until they start pre-school! Some think that other people are better at "mothering" they feel that they owe it to their children to pass them on. Some hide the pain of losing a child to adoption while others couldn't wait to dump their child or children to the state so they can enjoy life again. Others, are true mothers. Those that love, teach, suffer, cry, obsess and pray for and with their children. I want to be that kind of mother.

Being around young mothers who truly exude love and excitement over their children throw me back to when my own three were babies themselves and I practically did not allow anyone to touch them. I cried every time I had to go to work when L-Infinity was born but it also drove me to be better enough that my talents were noticed and people were willing to teach me the tricks of the trade. At one time, I am my own technician, lead, supervisor, inspector, gopher and Engineer's Assistant. It didn't matter the task, I wanted to do it all so that at the end of the day, I have great stories to tell my oldest daughter, my first gem...

When J-Pony was born, I felt like I couldn't do anything right. I fumbled with her baby gadgets, I dropped her twice (minor) but I felt so horrible that I'd call my MIL crying as if something truly horrible happened. I was ready to fight anyone that got near her after an 18-hour Christmas Day ordeal at a hospital when she accidentally swallowed a penny that got lodged horizontally. I became more determined to stay at home and be with my two baby girls. I walked L to school, I picked her up, library trips, reading time, nightly rites and all that bonding jazz that you hear about and I taught them, I mean taught them everything I knew to gauge how well they are doing. And I loved every minute of it!

But by the time I was pregnant with I-Dude, I was utterly exhausted but I knew another was supposed to join our family. I was excited to tell Mr. Man that we should have another baby and try for a boy. Moving to Arizona was so hard on my system that I was sick for months! It wasn't an easy pregnancy as my back was always hurting, my mind was on missing my mom in California and caring for a 2 1/2- year old girl who can tell you what's on her mind anytime of the day. I didn't dare try to potty train her at that age! I simply didn't have the energy. After I-Dude was born, we quickly found that he would be our most challenging child. He was badly jaundiced when it was time to bring him home. We had to re-arrange some of the furniture to place him at the most sunny spot so that he can stop looking yellowish though I really couldn't tell since he had the most beautiful olive skin tone. He got sick a few months later- back to back pneumonia then as if we are being teased after he turned one, he started losing weight then stopped growing! He stayed at 5th percentile for height for two years! Then of course there's the food allergies that now evolved to all nuts. But he is a gorgeous little boy. My baby boy...

Back to motherhood... I know of my own journey and have vaguely seen or heard barely enough of others'. But it was enough for me to accept that what may seem enough to some mothers is just a start for me. I love teaching my children everything and anything while also allowing them to learn on their own. It's not a perfect system as I am not perfect or the fact that life has a way of testing out my structure. L-Infinity now has too many things going on that patience is not her best virtue when it comes to asking for help while J-Pony still gets in trouble for saying what's on her mind. She definitely has spunk that one! I-Dude is becoming more aware of all of his differences with his classmates but still gets lost in the fun of the game that stopping almost brings him to tears. It is hard most on me when life takes me away from reading with them or my distracted self gets them in trouble because they chose to exercise their "free agency" on the cat or their bedroom (clean clothes as rugs for example). I know I can't be there all of the time, but I often ask myself if what I'm doing for and giving to them are enough to help them reach their divine potential. I'm not worried about their earthly potentials, as they need to stretch themselves to reach those along with my teachings.

My nightly prayers are for their safety, health and friendships. I thank Heavenly Father for my children's great ability to find friends and have the same friends like them enough to "hang out" near our home so I can help watch them without being a "mom" by being outside looking for them and dampening their fun. My mind then wanders to other moms and how they justify the ways they are raising their children. I am a people observer, and when I like something, I use it in my own family and get their response to see if it works better or worst. I watch mothers' interaction with their children. There are some characters out there thinking that toughening up their children mean a daily dose of cussing and name calling. Or hours of non-supervision to help them mature up in no time. Of those that are really good, you see that their children come to them and no matter how young, "speak" highly of them through physical exchanges of verbal and non-verbal cues. I smile at those people...

Often, when my daughters were asked who their hero is, I find myself hearing or reading that it's me that they look up to. It is mostly because I cook good enough food and can help them locate socks, but if you ask them, they will say, it's because, "when I come home after school, my mom will be there". Their friends ask them why we have so many time restrictions which gives birth to questions of "why can't we be..." or "if I do this, can I". I'm not heartless, I'm structured, so when they complain, I explain and re-explain. But other children not of our faith, not of our structure often reveal to my children, you have the coolest mom. Why? Because I stay home, not that I do not approve of working moms, I used to be one, but what other children see are the structured nights of togetherness and excitement of being together that we display and live.

We eat together, we play together, Mondays are FHE and Fridays are Movie and Soda night. Sunday is church time and no TV until 6PM. Desserts are a treat and reading is a must. Homeworks come first but is open for negotiation for moral lessons in responsibility. But still, I feel I am not doing enough. Why because those are temporal things. I can do more divine teaching moments with my children. We can read more scriptures and discuss parables. I can do more to help them be spiritually strong. I can do more...

So tonight, when I went to my friend's first ever baby shower, I wonder what "more" things she will do for her child. What divine truths will she introduce her to. What temporal things will she focus on as her child starts to ask about the world? We were asked to leave a poem or advice using the letters of her child's potential name. I used one word for each letter but what quickly came to me are the same things I've been trying to do for my own children- love them more as my Heavenly Father loves me... Because they are worth more than what I give them now and it is my duty to do more...

I also want to be like Erma Bombeck when she said:

When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me".

Final Exam, Tablescaping & Gratitude...

From

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We didn't do much today except be in school and for me gathering ideas for my final essay for one of my Public Administration classes. Charlie got a peaceful rest while I helped my sister tweak and clean up her resume over the phone and email. She's been sick for a few days. My poor baby sister. She rocks because she's raising her two small children by herself!

I just found too that our family friend, Michelle Branch got in a car accident yesterday but didn't feel most of the pains until today. I hope she feels better and gets to see a doctor soon. Also, my bff since highschool, Sheila, just remembered that today is her dad's death anniversary so we kind of were sad for each other... Three days from now, it'll be her birthday. My dad died on my birthday.

But on the upside, I am having tons of fun with my tablescaping blog (click the button on sidebar) and my friend Heather remembered that I love dark chocolate Dove, so she got me the Easter egg shaped ones! Yummy! Love ya, Heather!

The kids came home, did homework and the girls went to their Wednesday church activities. My friend Amy gave Jasmine a ride and even took her with them to dinner at Cici's pizza. Thanks, Amy! Lisa was picked up by one of her YW friends and the daughter of our bishop. Kira, my love and thanks to you and your family!

I feel so blessed today... even though I was overwhelmed with sadness and concern, I felt unbelievably loved by my Heavenly Father and for that I am truly grateful...

Happy Birthday, Mama!

From Roadfood dot com

I don't know why this didn't post, but it didn't help that it took me a while to realize it either. ;-)

It's my MAMA's 71st birthday today! Yay!

She's a cute Filipino lady with Chinese eyes! I love to see here smile and laugh, her eyes literally disappear! LOL

Here's a great big slice of a luscious coconut cream pie for her!

HAPPY 71ST BIRTHDAY, MAMA!!!

WE LOVE YOU AND WISH YOU MORE!!!

Brownies Anyone?

Today in between General Conference, we decided to do what we did last year, make brownies! This time, in our pantry, we found four boxes of three different flavors.

We shared them with four of our neighbor families and they loved them! I guess a new tradition is born for Sunday Conference.

Last year, for the October Sunday General Conference, I made dark chocolate fudge brownie cupcakes. Today, I made...

Chocolate Fudge...

Milk Chocolate Chunk (it had chips inside)

and Dark Chocolate Fudge!

Do you want some?

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Day 40

Love is a Covenant

"And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:"

Ruth 1:16 KJV

DARE:

Write out a renewal of your vows and place them in your home. Perhaps, if appropriate, you could make arrangements to formally renew your wedding vows before a minister and with family present. Make it a living testament to the value of marriage in God’s eyes and the high honor of being one with your mate.

What I Did:

As we are Mormons, this is not something we do.

But in honor of this dare, I will recommit my life to my husband.

Yes! I'm done, I'm done!!!

Conference Fill-up

Today, for Conference, we played Lingo Bingo and had another creative lunch. We loved hearing about provident living, service, having faith, temple attendance and obedience.

Now that we know we have a lot of edible ration in our house, I have been "playing around" with more impromptu, mixed-up recipes. It's actually really fun to do!

In the fridge, I found some leftover pasta, about two cups of spaghetti sauce, and the taco meat we had Thursday night. Knowing me, you know I'll come up with something! I heated up the sauce in a pot with 1 tbsp of olive oil, then I added the meat in and added some parsley, black pepper, garlic and parmesan cheese. When it was heated through, I added in the leftover pasta and tossed it until all was covered. Wouldn't you know it, I created a Zesty Spaghetti Sauce that even Ian liked! He and Jas do not normally eat any red sauce.


After the first conference, we picked up L-Infinity from her ACT Exam at another high school in the district. It is the science counterpart of SATs. On the way home, we stopped at the store for some bread and next to it, was a Boy Scout Troop 753 garage sale. We stopped and I found a very cute a three-piece blue and white Asian creamer set for $1.50! The original price for each were still on all three and it was a surprise that I found them. In Asian stores, the dishes are so expensive, it's almost painful to look at them. It's not fine bone china, but I love the way it looks! The pictures will be posted on my tablescaping blog on Monday.

Tonight, we just enjoyed some more of the spaghetti with some toast, corn and mandarin oranges...

One more day, and I'll be done with the Love Dare Challenge I started! Woo-hoo!

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Day 39

Love Endures

"Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away."

1 Corinthians 13:8 KJV

DARE:
Spend time in personal prayer, then write a letter of commitment and resolve to your spouse. Include why you are committing to this marriage until death, and that you have purposed to love them no matter what. Leave it in a place that your mate will find it.

What I Did:

I don't need to write a letter; Mr. Man and I, we recommit our love to each other on his days off by talking about all of that we've gone through and our goals for the future.

Off to the Dentist Again!

Today was dental visits for J-Pony and I-Dude. Then lunch at McDonald's. It's a family tradition for every after medical visits.
For Mr. Man, it was driving and some sleep. Then off to fix the dryer exit hose.
For L-Infinity, it was helping her boyfriend's family get setup for a community garage sale tommorrow.
For me, just some rest and Visiting Teaching. Got to visit two of my friends. Yes, it's a very productive day for all of us!

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Day 38

Love Fulfills Dreams

"Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

Psalm 37:4 KJV

DARE:
Ask yourself what your mate would want if it was obtainable. Commit this to prayer, and start mapping out a plan for meeting some (if not all) of their desires, to whatever level you possibly can.

What I Did:

I know that he wants us to have enough for a second car soon, so I will pray for that.

Artichoke: Our Golden Veggie

Why? Because J-Pony eats it!

Our pretty J-Pony is very picky and would not eat veggies outside of potato (chips), fries, and corn. We've tried spinach, carrots, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, but no luck. Then one day, back in AZ, Mr. Man and I made a big deal with how artichoke is so good, L-Infinity joined in, then I-Dude got in on the act. After two times more of that and J-Pony joined in. Since then, she's loved artichokes!

She still can't take the whole thing but check this out: This is her plate and she neatly placed them on one side to show exactly how many leaves she ate. She asked us to take a picture and blog about it, so here it is... :-)

We were lucky to find artichokes for 99 cents each at Kroger. It's a very seasonal veggie and we don't particularly like the jarred variety. When it is on a great sale like 99 cents each, we grab six, have one each and later, as an inexpensive date, Mr. Man and I share one over a TV episode we follow.

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Day 37

Love Agrees in Prayer

"Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven."

Matthew 18:19 KJV

DARE:
Ask your spouse if you can begin praying together. Talk about the best time to do this, whether it’s in the morning, your lunch hour, or before bedtime. Use this time to commit your concerns, disagreements, and needs before the Lord. Don’t forget to thank Him for His provision and blessing. Even if your spouse refuses to do this, resolve to spend this daily time in prayer yourself.

What I Did:

Since praying together is really a challenge for us, we make sure that we at least pray with the kids during mealtimes and before bedtime.