Philadelphia Zoo

Sunday, July 13, 2008 Trip to the Philadelphia Zoo
Remember when trips to the zoo were about looking at animals? Well when you take a 1 yr old and 3 yr old it's about camel rides, pony rides, the petting zoo and getting your face painted. Reece choose to get Batman painted on his face. It was very hot and humid so his paint would smear every time he touched his face. Look how much fun he had riding the miniature pony.

Reece and Mo fed the goats at the petting zoo. Reece enjoyed it immensely and said that it tickled when their tongues touched his hands. He would crack up laughing every time the goat licked him.
Here we are waiting to ride on the camel. Mo said he would take pics since he was too heavy for that poor camels back. It was interesting, glad it was only 100 yard ride.





The kids love checking out Reece's face in the mirror. He loved his Batman face more than you'd ever imagine! Thanks Pa Pere for that special treat.


Three generations of Maurice!

Thanks Aunt Amber for letting us borrow your season pass. We were so glad we saw half of the zoo. Maybe next summer we can see the other half!

August Already :(

I can't believe it's August! While on our 5 week road trip vacation time went rather slow. Now that I am home the days are flying by and I don't feel like I've done very much at all. My friend had her baby so I brought them dinner and loved on their beautiful baby girl. I went back a few days later and borrowed her other two girls for a morning of swimming. I purged 5 bags of clothes from our newly organized closet and 3 boxes of clutter from our home. I finished my 3rd book this summer. I bought the kids their birthday presents from Target and Borders. I restocked our fridge and pantry with food. I watched 2 movies, read lots of bloggs and emails.

But the best thing I have done since I've been home is play with my kids! It's been awesome playing with Raine. We are working on her colors and shapes. Her vocabulary is improving and she is speaking more clearly. She just started to say YEAH, when she wants something. If I ask her if she wants a drink she'll say YEEEAHH. It's a nice change from her saying NO all the time. She still says MINE a lot though. Raine is finally sitting still while we read books and really becoming interested in them. She still obsesses over Elmo but has grown very found of Monk Monk aka Curious George. Raine was very excited when her brother came home. Yesterday the two of them were playing dress up with their old Halloween costumes. Reece was Spiderman and Raine was Tigger. It was hilarious!

I love being home with my kids, as much as they drive me crazy they sure do crack me up! Only 16 more days of summer for this teacher. BOO HOO!

We Are Here, We Are Here

Well Raine and I are home sweet home but Reece and Mo are still travelling. They should be home tomorrow tonight. Raine and I flew home last Friday 7.25 from Buffalo, NY. The flight went exceptionally well. I bought Raine a seat since it was the man's big idea that the girls fly home instead of drive back with the boys. His patience with our 23 month old was gone after day 2 of the drive. In her defense she was cutting her I-teeth and two more on the bottom.

For the first 90 minutes of the flight we had a great time playing with toys, reading books and eating snacks. Then we both took a little nap (2 hrs). When we woke up the pilot was talking about us flying over Colorado and that we were about 50 minutes from Vegas. YAY! We played with more toys and ate a few more snacks. We landed, found the nearest bathroom to change Raine and headed toward baggage. I wish I took a picture of Raine walking through the airports with her little backpack on. It was loaded with toys and books and quite heavy but she did it! Thankfully she was miss independent and didn't ask me to pick her up and carry her.

While at the baggage carousel, Raine spotted our suitcase coming around the belt thing-a-majig. She shouted, "there, there mama". The people standing next to her cracked right up. One lady said she needed her to find her bag. I grabbed the suitcase, strapped the car seat to it and we went to find the Russo family. Jen drove us home and showed me our beautifully remodelled closet. I'll add pictures of the amazing job she did later. It is sooo great!

Fun with Daddy

Here are some action shots of super daddy at the beach!

He had so much fun playing with his kids. Reece and Raine loved the water but it was freezing cold; 58 degrees! Mo was trying so hard to get them to go in further but they wouldn't.

On the boardwalk the kids love to go on the rides.

Some of them require an adult because Reece is to small.

He really wanted to go on the caterpillar roller coaster.

You can barely see him sitting there next to Mo.

Reece loves to play in holes and build tunnels.

Mo had a fun idea to bury him in the sand.

Beach Babies

How cute are these kids?

This is the best picture I took of Raine on the beach.

She was in great spirits and very cooperative.

Reece the fishing fanatic; check out that grin.

Blowing Bubbles with Aubrey

Click on the play button to see Raine and her cousin Aubrey playing with this super annoying frog bubble toy. It is super cool for about 5 minutes then the croaking of the frog really grates on your nerves. The kids love it though! Don't forget to pause the music on the sidebar.

Ocean City, New Jersey

YIKES! Has it really been that long since I posted. Well I have been at the beach for two weeks and the internet connection was pretty poor. It took me hours just to try and read my bible study blogg, so I gave up and relaxed. It was a nice break from the world of technology that I am so addicted to. Now that we are back in Philadelphia for the weekend I should be able to catch you up on our East Coast Vacation.

Pictures are always better than words so let's see if blogger will cooperate before Reece needs to come to bed.

Mo's dad otherwise know as Pa Pere caught this huge flounder that we ate up on Friday.

Here we are getting ready to visit a pool at the condo Mo's Grandmother was staying at. Aubrey did not want to join us for a picture.

Mo and I in our favorite spot, relaxing on the beach.

We always go to the Crab Trap for dinner while on vacation. We were able to enjoy the yummy sea food on two occasions this time. Once with Kris & Mel and once with Amber & Doug.

I could never get a break. I just wanted to lay on my belly, but nope the kids just love me too much!

I can hear Reece saying his good night's so I best be finishing up this post. More pictures to come soon...

Tuesday, June 24, 2008 Butler, PA

Tuesday, June 24, 2008 Butler, PA

Today was a day of rest for the Hauguel’s we got up, ate breakfast and watched some good ole morning TV. I was in heaven watching all of those terrible talk shows like The View and Rachel Ray. Of course Reece & Raine enjoyed some serious PBS time. They love to watch Super Why, Dragon Tales and Sesame Street. Raine loves Elmo much more than Reece ever did! It is all we brought book and toy wise.

We finally got ourselves moving and went for a walk to a nearby park. Reece and Raine thoroughly enjoyed the swings and sandbox. There was a rec center representative there ready to do crafts or play games with the kids. Reece, Raine and Hailey finger painted a Frisbee. Matthew and Grant played kickball with some other boys. It was a really fun time. We walked back to the house and put the kids down for naps. I took a break on the back deck ready my 9 magazines that I haven’t had time for. It was gorgeous weather and so nice to sit on the back deck in the middle of the day and not melt to death. Last night’s rain cooled things off a bit so it was perfect temperature outside. We had a full evening of baseball ahead of us; since Grant’s game was cancelled last night. Hailey and Grant both had games right next to each other. It was going to be fun trying out the zoom lense on my new camera. Did I mention I have taken over 300 pictures so far? It is so great having a huge memory card and a camera that doesn’t miss a thing.

The baseball park was a blast. Mo took some amazing pics of the kiddos batting and pitching. I think he likes my camera more than I do. The concession stand served the best real potato french fries. They were so stinking yummy. Mo & Reece took a walk in the creek and had such a terrific time. We headed back home for baths and bed. Reece and Hailey played into the wee hours of the night and then Reece asked if he could have a sleep over in her bedroom. It was so cute! We enjoyed another game of the College World Series and some delicious Yeungling lager. It was a wonderful day. We are blessed to have amazing family that puts up with us.

Mon. 6-23-08 Peoria, IL to Butler, PA

Monday, June 23, 2008 Peoria, IL to Butler, PA

Yes, yet another good night’s sleep in the cool hotel room at another Comfort Inn. I woke at 8:30 and the boys were still sleeping. Raine was awake in her crib just waiting for someone to get her out. I jumped in the shower hoping she didn't see me but she cried out for me the whole time I was in the bathroom. Mo woke and got the kids ready for yet another FREE breakfast. I hopped out of the shower and we ran down for some free food. We all ate really well again and off we went. Reece asked if we were going to Starbucks and then reminded us that we need to pray after we get our coffee. It was so great. Reece prayed for our travels, thanking God for the nice weather and good nights sleep and a yummy breakfast. He was awesome! I was reminded once again about the amazing faith of a child. Don't you wish we could all have that!

The dude at the Starbucks was yet another super Starbucks employee. He had this incredible radio announcers voice and acted like we just ordered the best Starbucks coffee ever. We have really enjoyed our morning Starbucks runs; they certainly start the day off right!

We have about 6 hours on the road until we hit PA. We are hoping to see my cousin Alicia and her beautiful family. They have baseball every night of the week; it will be fun watching her sons and daughter play some ball. I hope the kids do as well in the car as they did yesterday.

The scenery around us is getting greener and greener. I love all of the trees and wildflowers we see along the roadside. We have seen some awesome wildlife also. Mo spots them all the time since my nose is usually in my book or turned around helping the kiddos. We have seen a lot of deer, horses, cows, birds and even those crazy prong horn antelope. Its been pretty neat seeing all of those animals.

We are about the cross over another state and it think that makes 10 states we are driving through in 4 days. What a crazy thought. It has been a great day. The kids were getting a little restless and so we stopped for lunch. Yep, McDonalds again! Reece was a bit disappointed though he received another Mantis character and we already have 2 of those. He was so sad he cried. We told him we would try and trade it for another toy at another restaurant. So far Reece has collected: Mantis, Tigris, Fox and Viper. He still needs Crane, Panda, Monkey and the bad guy. It would be fun if he collected them all, not quite sure that's going to happen.

The kids had full bellies and fell fast asleep in their seats. Reece only napped for a lil bit because we started to go through this crazy rain storm. We were driving along the Ohio river taking the scenic route to cross over into PA and the rain came pouring down. It was so bad we almost had to pull off the road. It lasted for quite some time and made me very nervous. I closed my eyes and took a little break from it all. It was all over and we were trying to cross into PA. My hubby took a wrong turn but quickly fix the situation. I was ready to be done with this leg of the drive. Reece was getting really cranky and so was I. We had about 45 minutes to my cousins house and I didn't think I was going to make it. I asked Mo if it would be faster if we got back on rt 79 and headed north that way. He said no we needed to go east not north, so curvy country roads it was.

Finally at 6:30 we pulled into my cousin's house. It had stopped raining but their baseball game was cancelled due to the downpour. We let the kids out to run around their awesome yard. Reece found Haliey's scooter and rode all over the yard. He has become quite agile on those things lately. He loves them. Mo played a quick game of wiffle ball with the kids before our pizza arrived. We enjoyed some yummy east coast pizza while watching the College World Series. It was great to relax in someones home again. The Hauguel family settled in at the Metzger home just as if it was their own. Thank You so much Alicia! We had made it to the east coast HOORAY!!

Sun. 6-22-08 York, NE to Peoria, IL

Sunday, June 22, 2008 York, NE to Peoria, IL


Yay, finally a good night’s sleep in the cool hotel room at the Comfort Inn. It took some time getting the kids to sleep but by 11:30 everyone was snoozing. We woke at 7:53am to Raine calling my name again; boy does that lil one love her mama. After a long hot shower and a quick run through the room, we were almost all packed up and ready to hit the FREE continental breakfast. Mo & Reece went ahead to get started and leave me alone to finish packing up the stuff. Raine hung out with me and watched Mickey Mouse Clubhouse a favorite of my kiddos. The girls met up with the boys just as they were finishing their scrumptious Belgian waffle; thankfully they had made us one also! It was a tasty treat even with all of the syrup my hubby put on it. Raine enjoyed it too. After breakfast Mo loaded up the truck and we were on our way to the local Starbucks. The barista was so hilarious. She kept getting everything mixed up or wrong and had us cracking right up. We couldn’t figure out if she was a ditz, new or just dumb; either way she seemed to be the happiest barista we ever met. I guess working at Starbucks in the middle of nowhere Nebraska will do that to you.

After a couple hours and the entering of another state, we had to pull over and let lil man pee. Raine was ready to get out and stretch her legs too. We were standing on the side of state route 6 in the county of Pottawattamie, Iowa. It was quite a humorous pee break. Mo decided the kids were doing great so he gave them one of their wrapped presents. Tuesday night before we left I pulled out tons of dollar store toys and wrapped them for the kids. It felt like Christmas Eve. Reece’s gifts were all wrapped in monster truck paper that said SMILE. Raine’s gifts were wrapped I in a boring yellow paper. When we feel like the kids need something new to play with or when they are doing exceptionally well then we give them a present. Reece loves it! He was very excited about the ball he can play with in the swimming pool or on the beach. He thought the Todd Parr book about underwear was hilarious and asked me to read it over and over. I think that will be one he memorizes and reads himself.

A few more hours passed by and I called my dad to let him know our new plan. We are going to skip visiting Buffalo on the way out to the shore and visit all of the friends & family in PA the rest of this week. We have 2 families to see in the Pittsburgh area and about 5 families to visit in the Philadelphia area. If we hang out with all of them this week then we can go visit my friend Andrea and my sister right after the shore. This sounded much more logically to my spouse as well as my dad. He told me he thought we were dumb to be driving north 4 hours to say hi for a day and a half. That we should just stay on I 80 or I 276 through PA. I am so glad my Dad agrees because that will make it easier when I talk to my mother; who always thinks I prefer to stay with the Hauguel’s rather than the Myers/Bumpus family.

It was lunchtime and Mo chose McDonalds again. Thank goodness we ate at Cracker Barrel yesterday. I think Mo wants Reece to get all of those silly Kung Fu Panda toys; at least I hope that’s why he keeps taking us there. We were all in good moods and ready for some greasy grub. The kids share a 6 piece chicken parts Happy Meal. Mo and I share a chicken select meal and he gets an extra fish filet sandwich. $14.00 later we are all fat and happy. Good thing we only eat one meal at a restaurant.

Fruit snacks come in very handy when the kids are getting antsy and need some sugar to calm them down.
Reece was ready to rest and take a break for a while. Note the collection of Kung Fu Panda toys on his lap. He would sleep with his head on the cooler. It was very funny.

YAY a picture of the super mom who would turn around every 5 minutes to serve her children and all of their needs. My husband even pointed that out. He said he was very grateful to all that I do during the drive.

Mo snacking on some pringles. I asked him if he was hungry or bored. He obviously didn't eat enough free breakfast or yummy Mc Donalds.

The kids finally fell asleep after quite a long afternoon. It was about 3:45 before they finally crashed. Raine slept hard but Reece was very uncomfortable. He was very over tired and couldn't fall asleep. He watched the Curious George movie. Raine seems to love that movie and calls George a monk monk. It is very cute. We were making great time today. The wind was at our back and we got great gas mileage. Ever since we left Nevada gas cost less than $4.00. I think the last tank we got was $3.84. Mo said we were getting 18 mpg. He was so glad we didn't bring that canoe across the country. Our drive was going so well, we could have driven a few more hours but wanted to crash before we hit at more expensive Springfield, IL.

We found another Comfort Inn and called it quits for yet another day on the road. We knew better this time and got the pack n play ready right away for Raine. It was too late to take Reece swimming so he took a nice long bath instead, that boy could bath for hours, he seems to think it is his own personal swimming pool. We all made it into bed and were fast asleep by 10:30 pm.

Sat. 6-21-08 Denver, CO to York, NE

Saturday, June 21, 2008 Denver, CO to York, NE

At 5:40 am Raine was wide awake and calling, “Mama, Mama” from her crib. I lay down in Lucy’s bed while Raine played with all of the neat toys in her room. She became bratty & tired so I laid her back down in her crib to rest some more. Soon enough everyone woke up and we got ready to go to breakfast at the Cracker Barrel. Mo’s choice and boy was it yummy! It took FOREVER to get seated and even longer to get our food but the kids hung in there and did awesome! Mo taught Reece how to play checkers. It was his first time learning and he loved it. Dad was very kind and let him win! Raine loved rocking in the cute rocking chair and played with her pooh toys.



We all ate like champs and then headed to Boarders book store to use the gift card my students gave me. I bought the Cold Play CD for Mo, an Elmo book for Raine that laughs like Elmo when you move the big Elmo head and a 4 pack of Chicken Little books for Reece both for a smoking deal $3.99. Then as I was headed to the register I saw the summer beach reads section. It had an interesting book called Pack up the Moon. It’s written by an Irish gal and sounded awesome. I got back in the truck and started reading it right away. The kids were very excited about their new books too. We drove along interstate 76 until we reached interstate 80. I only made it through chapter 1 of my book because I was so sleepy from my full belly and poor night’s sleep. Raine & I fell were fast asleep before we made it to I 80.

We drove a good while and then Mo needed to pee. The kids were sleeping so we pulled off the highway and while Mo peed I stretched my very achy legs. Reece woke up so we had him make a river in the mud also. He was in great spirits. He has been a real angel so far. He gets a little antsy toward the end of the day but all in all is quite the trooper. After every nap he asks, “Mama, did I take a good nap? Can I have a treat?” While on the road, he gets a package of fruit snacks. If we were at home he would get to pick a treat from the candy tin. I have no problem rewarding 2 hours of quiet in my home. Once back in the truck and on our way again; Raine continued to sleep and Reece asked to watch his Transformers DVD again. I am so tired of that movie, I need to pull out Brother Bear or Curious George. Nebraska is a pretty flat and boring state. I told Mo it reminds me of the middle of New York state, flat boring farm land.

The rain was horrible and we were so close to Lincoln that we decided to stop in York. It would be less expensive than Lincoln and we were ready to get out of that truck. The night was relaxing Raine played in the tub while daddy and Reece took a swim in the indoor pool. We tried to have the kids sleep in the same bed but Raine didn't know what to do with her self. She kept kicking Reece and he was very annoyed. Finally I had enough and made go out to the truck once again and get the pack n play for Raine to sleep by herself. Once she was in her bed she fell asleep and so did the rest of us. We all slept pretty soundly since we were so tired from our Denver night and the long long long drive!

Fri. 6- 20-08 Park City, UT to Denver, CO

Friday, June 20, 2008 Park City, UT to Denver, CO

We left Brian’s house after some waffles and cereal. It was about 10:30 by the time we finally made it onto route 80. We had to have some Starbucks and drop some over due thank yous in the mailbox. It wasn’t but a half an hour into our ride that our kiddos fell asleep. They must have been pretty tired from the hike and playing with their uncle. It doesn’t matter where you are in Utah it is simply an amazingly beautiful state.

Mo & Reece had to pee so we pulled off the highway and found a place to make rivers. This was the perfect spot to test out the zoom lens. I took pictures of these enormous windmills with the beautiful Rocky Mountains in the distance. It was breathtaking.


The drive was a hard one. Raine was so uncomfortable. She seems to be teething, battling allergies or getting a cold. Whatever it is, it makes for a horrible 8 hours in a small confined area. She can’t really get comfortable and just cries a whole lot! Mo decided to stop at McDonalds in Rock Springs, Wyoming for a late lunch. It gave the kids a chance to run around the play place and expend some energy. Reece was very excited he got a new Kung Fu Panda toy. He now has 3 out of the 7 available. I won’t be surprised if we bring home a whole slue of those darn things. $13.00 later we were full of grease. Good thing we only eat one meal a day there! I cleaned out the pantry so we would have plenty of good things to eat. Some of our snacks include: apples, carrots, cheese sticks, pbj sandwiches, granola bars, peanuts, Doritos, Cheetos, animal crackers, Chex mix, Cheezits, and a gift bag full of CANDY!! These snacks are also perfect for the beach.

Once back on the road with full bellies; we all fell asleep for an hour or so, while Mo drove through a wild rain storm into Colorado. During the last hour of our day, Raine continued to sleep and Reece asked to watch his Transformers DVD. I picked up a $5.00 DVD with 3 episodes of the old school cartoons on it. I am pretty tired of listening to that theme song.

We made it to Terry & Cindy’s house by 6:30 pm. The night was nice and cool, perfect for a BBQ and margaritas. The kids made M&M cookies with Cindy’s sister Meg and boy were they yummy! Sleeping arrangements were tough but we got some rest and can’t complain when it’s free! Reece and Raine took over the little girl’s room and Mo and I slept in the living room. Raine was having hard time settling in but finally crashed. Reece woke in the middle of the night not sure where he was. He came out the living room and stole my couch. I should have gone in the girl’s room and took his bed. At about 1:30 am we were all finally sound asleep.

Road Trip 2008

We are off!! We left Las Vegas on Wednesday, June 18th at 3:34 pm.

I wanted to leave at 8 am but we were hardly ready to go. Mo relaxed Mon & Tues night instead of packing so we took most of Wednesday to get all our gear gathered and put in the truck. I really tried to minimize what I bring with us since I am a well known over packer and tired of keeping track of so much stuff. Mo said, " Are you sure we have everything, cuz there seems to be some extra room back there?" We can actually see out the back window and watch the bike tires spin as we drive. Little does he know there is extra room so we can bring a 58 year old baby doll crib and my 30 year old hand made dollhouse back with us! :) We are letting my brother Brian use Mo's canoe while we are gone. Mo thinks it will cost too much extra gas money to haul it with us. It's a pain driving against the head winds with that massive thing on the top of the truck. Not sure how I feel about that. Both of the kiddos would love to ride in the canoe at my parents house on Lake Ontario and on the Bay in New Jersey. We arrived in Park City, Utah last night around 11:30pm. We were all exhausted after a long day of preparation and then a 7 hour drive. I out the kiddos to bed and then had a yummy beer with my lil bro. I was just what I needed since my lil man seems to be growing like a weed. The whole drive he complained about his legs hurting and how he just wanted to get to Uncle Brian's house. Mo had more patience for his crying than I did; probably cuz I was up late the past few nights packing...


THURSDAY, JUNE 19th I woke with two lil ones in my brother's huge California King bed and Mo no where to be found. Reece was ready for breakfast so he headed down to find Mo, who was playing on the computer. He made the kids breakfast while I got them dressed for a fun filled day. We played in the backyard, walked to this great playground area and then came home to gather up gear for a picnic in the mountains.

We didn't realize there would be that much snow left. So we just made the best of it. It was perfect weather for making a snowman, or an Hauguel Snow Family :)

Reece thought I needed a hat. He said that was the biggest one he could find. Notice my arms down on the bottom of my body. When I asked him why my arms were so low he just laughed and moved them up. He was having so much fun making these little snowmen.

We could of played up there for hours but the kids really needed a nap. Raine fell asleep in the car up there and then the whole time we ate and made snowmen. I just held her in my arms and cuddled with my baby girl who is soon to be 2 years old.

We came home relaxed and made a delicious BBQ dinner of grilled potatoes, veggie kabobs, steak kabobs and chicken kabobs. It was marinated in our favorite Chavetta's marinade from Buffalo, NY. I can't wait to get some more and bring it back with us!

The kids played with chalk in the front and then we ate some yummy ice cream, took a bath and got ready for bed. It was a jammed packed day! I think I would like to spend a week here, instead of just a day and a half. I love it here. Tomorrow we are Denver, CO bound...

Playing with my new Nikon D60

Ya gotta love when you get a new toy, right? I've been wanting a new camera for a year or so and finally purchased it. I bought the Nikon D60 and am in love. I still have so much to learn but that's my summer time goal. I found an online class for beginning SLR users. I also have some free classes I will get to take at Ritz Camera when I return from my summer travels. Be prepared for lots of posts with lots of fun pictures.

Happy Father's Day Mo

We had such a nice time celebrating our Daddy today. A few presents and lots of tears before church. A wonderful teaching about leaving a legacy to be proud of by our friend Pastor Eli. Mini Grand Prix for some rides on the fast race cars and some yummy pizza for lunch. At 1:00 I put Raine down for a nap and Mo took Reece to see Kung Fo Panda. They both loved it and had a great time chilling out in true father and son fashion. Reece and Raine played while Mo watched some golf on TV. We finished the day hanging out and eating ice cream with the Russo family.


Top Ten Reasons Mo makes a great DADDY
#10 His good looks helped make two beautiful babies.
#9 Reece has a great name because of him.
#8 He teaches the kids about manners and proper pronunciation of words.
#7 He often comes home with lil gifts he knows Reece would enjoy.
#6 He wrestles with the kids more often than I would like him too.
#5 He reads & prays with them before they go to sleep.
#4 He still loves to travel and can't wait to bring the kids new places.
#3 He sacrifices his wants and desires so he can spend time with his family.
#2 He gave me children even when he was reluctant about raising them in this crazy world.
#1 He loves his kids more than anyone would know.

I love you Mo! You are the BESTEST DADDY in the whole wide world.

NEW DO

I am ready for simple summertime hair. Mo wanted me to cut it shorter than last time so I did! You can't really see the cool red highlights. :(

What do you think?

Days of excitement

I can't keep up with daily bloggin on summer break because our days have been pretty jammed pack with fun. Here's a brief update:


WEDNESDAY 6/11/08
Tried to organized my home in the morning then met some friends to go swimming. Home for lunch and naps. Visited with more friends for a BBQ and more swimming. It was a Memorial Day camping trip reunion full of funny pictures and stories. We had so much fun just chilling and chatting.


THURSDAY 6/12/08
Stayed home all day trying to allow for some serious rest and relaxing for my exhausted kiddos. Is it bad that they watched three movies? Well, Raine only watches a little bit, she doesn't sit still. Reece on the other hand has a great Little Einstein mat that he lays on and enjoys a snack picnic style while he watches a flic. I was doing even more organizing than Weds. It feels good to see my list of projects getting accomplished. I can't believe the week is over already though. I still have so much I want to do before we leave on our trip. Mo and I were able to go out on a date. We used some gift cards for dinner, a movie and a new shirt. It was so nice to go out and chat since we haven't been able to do that in a very long time. We finally saw Indiana Jones, not sure I really cared for it as much his other movies. I was full of delicious Cannelloni from Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant so it was a little tough keeping my eyes open.

FRIDAY 6/13/08
Stayed in bed until almost 8 am, feed the kidlets breakfast, threw in a load of laundry and vacuumed. Walked the kiddos to the playground for a break from our house before it got to hot. Reece was very helpful walking Dublin Dog. After lots of running around we walked back home. Reece was warn out and rode in the umbrella stroller while Raine toddled behind us. She was so cute trying to keep up with us. Mo came home for a few hours so I could go purchase my camera and get my hair cut and colored. It was a nice 3.5 hours away doing things I needed to do. My hair is so short, but the spouse loves it just as much as I do. I played with the kids while Mo went back out to landscape and buzz his head again :( Then we all went swimming before dinner. It was a very fun filled day! Now, I am just waiting for the battery to charge on my camera so I can play with it!

There is the week's update and hopefully I won't skip anymore of my daily bloggin. How was your week?

Thank you girls

Life is too short to wake up in the morning with regrets. So love the people that treat you right and forget about the ones that don't. Believe that everything happens for a reason. If you get a chance take it. If it changes your life, let it! Nobody said it would be easy, they just promised that it would be worth it.

This quote is dedicated to girlfriends who make all things in life fun and carefree. Thanks for taking me out last night! I needed to get away and have some girl time without kids. BJ's was a blast, so much fun dealing with that awful waiter. Let's go again for Jess's b-day but later in July so I can attend! (Sure) Bingo was also so great, but when are we going to win? Thanks again girls for all of my letters, my movie, my moving day breakfast and help, and my night out. Mostly of all, THANK YOU for being there for me when my family is so far away. I love you guys :)

Super Sunday

Don't ya just love when all signs are pointing to you not making it to church but when you do it is wonderful! The morning was a bit hairy scary but we made through the church doors just as Kiko Campo, an amazing man starting his sermon. It was his last Sunday at our church as he is moving to Virgina to work at a university there. He is a dynamic public speaker, he has a theater background so it is always entertaining! We will miss you Dr. Campo.

After service the kids ate their doughnuts and played on the playground with their best buddies Timmy & Cross. It was nice being able to chat with one of my best buddies Wendie while they played. We ran to Babies R Us to return something and pick up a few new baby presents and then headed home for naps. Raine fell asleep in the car and was easy to move to her bed. Reece on the other hand watched a 30 minute movie, decided he was hungry and then finally made it to his bed. Reece must be growing because he is eating like a horse lately.

All he wants to eat are the Rice Krispie treats we made yesterday. He wants to bring them to the beach with us. I told him they probably won't last that long. :) Then he asked if we could make some more when we were there but wants to bring everything we need with us. I told him that all we would need to do was buy the ingredients and he was finished with that in-depth conversation. When Mo asked him if he was excited about going to the beach in 3 weeks Reece said yep and we will get to make those delicious Rice Krispie treats. Mo didn't understand Reece's new found love of those delicious snacks and laughed right out loud at him.

After dinner we headed out on a family bike ride. It was about an hour long and the kids did great, maybe tomorrow we can get out there a little bit earlier and go someplace new.

One jeep sold, two to go...

Mo sold Kristopher's jeep last night! PRAISE THE LORD!
That means I get my parking spot in the driveway back, well until Mo has to park his landscaping trailer in there. If only he would sell that other jeep taking up space in my driveway; parking in the driveway wouldn't be such a problem. PRAY he sells that one by August since he won't be around much to work on it during June or July. Off to tumbling class with Reece, then maybe some more swimming today. I love to swim and hope to do a lot of it this summer.

First Day of Summer Break

Today was the official start of my summer break. I woke, threw in a load of laundry and then made some breakfast for my kiddos. My friends do coffee and massage Fridays, so I was headed over there for a birthday massage and some yummy coffee.

The kids swam, Raine napped, Jess drew a picture and Erin worked on breaking up all the knots that accumulated in my neck and shoulders over the school year. Boy did that feel good, but it also hurt really bad! She said I will be sore tomorrow. I bet! The kids played really well so we stayed a little longer. Then I looked at the clock and it was already 2:00, I was tired and ready for a nap. Reece needs his naps or he is the crankiest kid on the block. Home we went and by 2:30 all of us were resting in our beds! I even fell asleep for an hour or so.

Dinner came and I made a yummy pasta salad, corn, and flank steak. Then since I had some apples to use up I made an apple pie. Never did that before, but will definitely do it again. It's pretty easy, especially when you are using a graham cracker crust!

While I folded laundry and tried to clean out Reece's closet Mo went to bid on a job and then took his son to Golden Spoon and brought some home for me! It was a relaxing but productive day. The first of many to come this summer...

34 years old!

Wow, I am old. Ice cream is melting as I type so I will keep this short and maybe come back later...

I moved 11 years of teaching stuff from 4 different grades levels into a new classroom today with the help of my dear friends Erin & Jess. THANKS SO MUCH GIRLIES :) Surprised my kiddos and took them swimming and then Mo bought me take out and I will now go enjoy my ice cream and watch my new movie PS I Love You. I hope I don't fall asleep.

Summer break is officially here so do be surprised by an overwhelming amount of bloggin. It's my journal ya know! :)

SCHOOL'S OUT

EXHAUSTION is setting in. I was up way too late last night and certainly could be tonight. My house looks like a tornado blew threw it, so does my classroom. My students did great today. While I tried to get some stuff done, they enjoyed some cake & a movie for my birthday. My AWESOME room mom Jessica Baldwin coordinated a class birthday present for me. A Borders gift card and notes from each of the kids; summer reading here I come. Thanks Jess!

I layed down to watch a movie with Reece and totally fell asleep; this was at 7:45 pm. I knew if I stopped moving I would crash. I woke up a couple times when Mo came home and when I realized it was 9:00 and Reece still hadn't gone to bed. Spoke with my hubby, did the dishes, tucked my son back into bed and here I sit.

I need some sleep. Tomorrow is the last day of work until August 20th. Jess & Erin are going to come in and help me finish moving the rest of my room. THANK GOODNESS FOR GREAT FRIENDS!

Accomplishments

Don't you just love when your to do list gets done and then some. I never make mine too long; that way I will feel a sincere sense of accomplishment.

Called my sister and dad.
I filed all the projects my kids did throughout the spring.
I handed in 20 report cards for critiquing.
Paid a couple bills.
Got gas.
I had Jess take pictures of the kids and I, got them developed and made my scrap page for each student.
Finished the students scrap books.
Brought chips and nacho cheese to school.
Took down a little bit more of my room.
Cleaned out a few more files, supplies, and cupboards.
Taught about Father's Day and had the kids write awesome letters to their dads'.
Taught about tan grams and had the students play with them.
Cooked dinner~Pasta is quick and easy~Reece and Raine love it!
Bathed the kids, read books and put them to bed.

I bet there is a bunch more but I can't remember right now and my list to far away to check it.

1.5 days left with students

Yep, since Monday is all over, I only have Tuesday and half of Wednesday left with the best class of kids I have ever taught. I had a bunch of first graders two years ago and they were pretty awesome also. God seems to give teachers easy classes then harder classes; it's what makes us come back to teaching after our short summers of relaxing.

I will be going back up to 5th grade to teach two of my favorite subjects, reading & language arts (writing). There will be four core teachers and the kids will rotate between us. I will get to teach 60 kids reading & language arts (writing) while my dear friend teaches the other 60 kids reading & language arts (writing). The math & science/social studies teachers will have to teach all four classes (120 kids). I used to teach 5th grade 3yrs ago and loved it, but was ready for something new, so I went down to first grade.

I will miss the little guys, but change is always good for me. Just not on my birthday...

Birthday Month is Here

YAY! It's JUNE, my favorite month of the year! June means so many things, most importantly my birthday! June 5th is the best day of the year. You all must agree, you love me and if it weren't for that very special day, you all would seriously be missing out.

So on my birthday, I get to check out of my second grade classroom and move in to a much larger fifth grade classroom. Yay for me. :) I am going to bust my tail so I can go to work at 8:00, check out and walk out those doors until Aug 18th.

SUMMER VACATION is also a big reason I love the month of June! Road trip to the Jersey Shore plans start to really come about and lounging at home with my kiddos is an everyday thing, not just a weekend thing.

In honor of my birthday month, I am challenging myself to post something great about the month of June each and every day of it!

May is over already

WOW how time flies. Lately I feel like I need a remote that stops time so I can get all the stuff done that I need to and then life can resume as normal. Anyone got one of those or some extra arms. What was that movie where that guy kept cloning himself and each version was wackier than the other. Even that sounds good right about now. My friends quote movies left and right they probably know which movie I talking about. ANYWHO...

May was a busy month for me: Retreat the first weekend, Home the second weekend, Sea Camp the third weekend, Camping the fourth weekend, Home this last weekend.

Camping was awesome last weekend. We were up in Pine Valley Utah and it was the worst weather ever. It snowed, it hailed, it rained, and it was sunny. We froze! Four families attended this Miserable Memorial Day Weekend camping trip. Two of us slept in campers and two of us slept in tents on the very wet, very cold ground. I am so proud of my friends and their families for sticking it out in the uncomfortable conditions. We had been planning this trip for a few months and it was touch and go there for awhile. I took some positive pills or something last week because I kept saying, it's gonna be great, don't worry about the weather, dress warm, we can stick it out. God knows we have been planning this...

8th year of marriage

is starting today May 20, 2008. I love you Mo~ Thank you for my beautiful life.

So many blessings have been bestowed upon us over the years.

We made it over the 7 year itch...
We have a rich man's family. One son and one daughter, 2 years apart just like I wanted.
We have two homes and a great renter.
We are successful teachers.
We drive across the country with our kids and plan to do it again. and again and again.
We are pursing new adventures in our careers.
We dedicated those precious gifts from the Lord.
We are still involved with our church and praying more as a couple & family.
We continue to take pleasure in traveling to Utah, Cali and anywhere else kids are allowed.
We are still indulging on wants and in debt because of it.
We touched both oceans last summer and would like to make that a tradition.
We enjoy hanging out with each other while in front of the TV, in the backyard, while shopping at REI, biking, hiking, camping, cooking, and of course disciplining.
We can still laugh and cry with each other probably even more now.
We are still madly in LOVE.

Happy Anniversary Mo Mo~ Forever Yours~JoL

Sea Camp Weekend

This past weekend I flew with 45 5th graders and 4 chaperons to Sea Camp http://www.seacamp.com/ in San Diego. I took a personal day on Friday, so I could hang out with my kiddos and get ready for my weekend away. It was a wonderful morning. I was up at 7 am, threw in a load of laundry, filled the kids blow up swimming pool and we played outside for a couple hours before it became too hot. Then we headed to Target to get a few things. We headed home for lunch, took the kids to the sitter and hitched a ride to the airport to meet the rest of the crew.

Friday we were delayed at the airport so we had to hang around for a few hours more than we wanted. While waiting for our plane we ran into TONY HAWK!! The 5th graders were extremely star crazed. Our drama teacher convinced him take a picture with the group and then the kids would leave him alone. He was flying on our flight to San Diego and went to hide after that. Finally the plane arrived and we were off to sunny California!

The Sea Camp vans were ready and waiting for us when we arrived in Cali. We helped the kids with their luggage and then sent them on their way to camp. We had to figure out where one student’s bags were but then we were off to get our rental car and check in our hotel! DOLLAR rental car SUCKS, we waited over an hour to get our car. At last we arrived at the hotel, but it was now 9 pm and I was starving. We checked in, freshened up and then went to Old Town for a yummy Mexican dinner and margarita. We were all so tired we went back to the hotel and crashed.

Saturday was a fantastic day of relaxing. We went to breakfast at a really yummy restaurant that we always go to and then walked around Sea Port Village. http://www.seaportvillage.com/ It was beautiful weather and perfect for strolling the shops. It was only noon so we drove over to our favorite nail salon to get manicures and pedicures. I was looking forward to this part the most. I needed a pedicure badly. We had a few hours to kill before checking on the kids at the camp so we went back to the hotel pool for some happy hour drinks and appetizers. A very nice young man and his pretty pregnant wife bought our drinks and shrimp plates. His mom was a teacher and said we work too hard for too little pay! AMEN! Our time by the pool went rather fast. We rushed up to the hotel room, freshened up and headed off to see the kids at camp. They were all very excited about the fish eyes and heart they had tasted. It’s so fun to see them in a different environment than school. The teachers were off to Anthony’s Fish Grotto http://www.gofishanthonys.com/grotto.html for some yummy seafood. I love their crab cakes. We were able to grab an early dinner so we could see a movie. We drove back to the hotel and walked over to the movie theater next door. We decided to see What Happens in Vegas with Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher.
http://movies.aol.com/movie/what-happens-in-vegas/30164/video/trailer-no-2/2092322
It was seriously so funny. We couldn’t stop laughing the whole movie. Since we ate an early dinner we were ready for dessert after the show. We spoiled ourselves once again and indulged ourselves with scrumptious slices of cheesecake at The Cheesecake Factory. It was now midnight and time for us lame teachers to crash. I wrote out a few cards and then drifted off to sleep in the biggest, most comfortable bed ever. I slept so soundly from 1 am until 7 am that I don’t even remember dreaming! No little ones crying out for me in the middle of the night was a plus too. It was HEAVEN!

Sunday Morning came too fast. We woke, got ready, checked out, got our daily dose of Starbucks and head to LaJolla Shores to enjoy some beach time! The kids were getting ready to go boogie boarding and it was so funny watching them get their wet suits on. I loved standing on the cold sandy beach, sun kissin my skin, kids screaming with joy around me and the ocean waves crashing. It too was HEAVEN! The 5th graders were finished and going to indulge in lunch and the aquarium so we were off to shop some more. For the past 4 years I have found some good deals at Gap & Banana Republic so I was very eager to shop. Yep, I did find a great dress and cute tank tops at the Gap. Banana had a really cute dress too, but I am saving for a camera so I walked out of the store knowing my limits! Lunch time and then hurry to the airport to receive the kids from those Sea Camp vans. Fun in the sun was done.

At the airport we were delayed again! I read my book and chatted it up with another fellow traveler. The 5th graders were becoming very restless. We convinced Southwest airlines to provide some snacks for the kids since it was their fault we were starving. Flight was good and all of the parents were there waiting for their kidlets in Vegas. I made it home before my family. who were driving back from Pine Valley, Utah. It was so great to see them and love on my babies. Get aways are great, but I sure missed my adorable family!

Happy Mother's Day

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all of the great mom's out there. I have the best mom in the world, but she is very far away from me. I miss her very much. Thank goodness I can share my friends mamas. My friend Wendie has a fantastic mother named Dorothy that is like a mom to me. The three of us drove to our churches retreat last weekend. It was so nice to be spoiled by her. Grammy who watches my kiddos during the week is my friend Kristi's mom and is also like a wonderful mom. Lastly is Mama Kris, my friend Shontell's mom. She is awesome. I have spent several holidays with her and her kids, Shontell, Kristopher, George and Shane. She is so awesome to our family. I am truly blessed to have such wonderful step moms on the west coast! Thank you so much ladies for all of your love.

reece~isms

Reece was full of funny things to say today.

He was scrubbing the tub with the bottom of his boat saying that his scrub a dub a thub was the best cleaning thing ever. I asked him how much it cost, he said three thousand thirty dollars. I said I better get me one of those, that's a good deal. He said, yep and it cleans really well.

I told him he could only watch a little bit of his TMNT video and then got distracted doing the dishes. He came running out of the room and said Ha Ha Mama I tricked you and watched the whole show.

He was eating dinner and told me his broccoli looked like the trees from Horton.

Reece was throwing up Monday night and part of Tuesday, so it was nice that he was back to his old silly self again today.

Oh yeah, Mo buzzed his head and then did the same to my son. I'll take pics this weekend and post them. The only one who hasn't got a new summer do is Rainey Roo. I won't be touching her hair for a long while.

Soccer

Reece had his last Saturday morning soccer class. I wonder how much he really liked it because he likes to come down from the field and get drinks as often as he can. He would roll down this little hill and sit by me instead of play. Mo came to check in on him after a taking a break from a landscaping job. That’s all it took Reece stayed on that field the rest of the session. He pushes me to the limits and tries to get away with murder. All in all, he did great for his first six week session of organized sports. Next session, he will try a tumbling class maybe he will like that one a little bit more.

From 20 to 2

How can one go from posting 20 times in March to 2 times in April. Relatives, Work and Life I guess. Plus no real challenge like during the BufBloPoFo 2008. Shontell asked what I got done this weekend on her blogg and so here it is. Lots of nothing.

I felt like I couldn't get myself motivated. Friday night I babysat the daughter of my pregnant girlfriend;so she could have one last date with her hubby. Reece and Amaya are great friends and played really well together. Saturday we played outside a lot. We enjoyed watching our neighbors baby tortoises eat broccoli and rose petals. They also ran sprints from the shade to the sun and back again. Reece really enjoyed observing how fast they were for being so little. They are the size of your palm. It was so awesome all of us hanging over the fence staring for almost a half an hour. Mo wants to get some for our yard, but why when we have some right next door. ;)

After Amaya left, I tried to clean up a bit but it was a fruitless effort. I got one load of laundry done and some put away. I finally did the dishes and cleaned one bathroom. Then it was time to get ready for our night out. Mo and I were meeting with friends at Agave to plan for our Memorial Day Camping trip. It was good times and great margaritas. As we were walking to our cars, I saw the sign for Carvel ice cream and we all headed over there. We felt like highschoolers sharing a six pack of chocolate ice cream cookie sandwiches. It was hilarious. I guess we are old since it was 10:30 and we left for our respectable residences. All in all a great date night!

Sunday was a great day. Church was awesome. Mo was a sinner and landscaped so he skipped church. The kids and I had a fantastic time hanging with God. Reece ran into his class without even giving me a kiss goodbye. Yes, I called him back for one! Raine on the other hand wouldn't let go of her mama. Thank goodness for Trisha & Caleb and their patience in the nursery. I played with Raine for a few minutes on the floor and then snuck out the door; similar to when we go out on dates and have a sitter in our home. Raine just knows there's no one better than me!! ;) Mo & Reece agree with her too! She cried for a few minutes and then was fine. Trisha took a few pictures of Raine and her daughter Laila on her lap with their blankets. Those babies are so stinkin cute with their blankies.

PG had an amazing sermon on JOY and I was so thankful I was there to hear it. I have been complaining about stuff a lot and needed to be reminded of all the JOY I have in my life. Like the fact that my daughter won't let go of me to play in the nursery. I could go on but I'll make that another post for later... It was a really moving sermon for me. Then it was time for DONUTS!! We like to get the apple fritter and Raine refuses to share with her mama. I was trying to eat an orange instead but couldn't resist annoying the child by taking bites of her donut. She would yell NO, MINE! several times, as she was pulling her hand away from my mouth. It was quite hilarious. Off to the playground and home for naps.

Raine napped like a champ, she always does. She is like her Grammy Babs and loves her bed. Reece on the other hand found every excuse or reason to stay up. I'm hungry, I'm thirsty, I wanted to color a picture for daddy, can't I watch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles pleeeeeaaasse...

I received a few phone calls in the middle of his napping mayhem and boy did he take advantage of them. Every time I hung up and went to check on him he was missing from the bed. I must of spanked him a dozen times; probably should of stopped at half dozen since it didn't seem to bother him. After two hours of trying, he finally fell asleep but only for one short measly hour. It was not enough time for me to read my book and take time for me because then Raine woke up.

We ran to the grocery store for veggies and ordered pizza for the kids. The Russo's were coming over with their kidlets and we were going to walk over to Jared & Jess Massanari's for a surprise birthday party for Eli. It was a great get together and nice way to end and rather relaxing weekend.

Sleepy Sunday

I sit here at my computer reading emails & bloggs and I can't keep my eyes open. My kiddos are napping and I think it is time for mommy to do the same. I have been meaning to update but keep forgetting to email my entries from school to home. Yes I journal at school, no not when I should be teaching, on my prep when I should be planning! I will have lots of funny stuff to read soon, I promise. Now I am off to rest my sleepy eyes.

Easter Part 2

So after we found our baskets and looked through them rather quickly; we headed off to church. It's always so great at church on Easter. They have a big egg hunt for the kids with prizes and treats. Reece couldn't wait to collect his 12 eggs. Raine was excited and collect them also.

Mo helped the kids collect the eggs and then cashed in on a prize for Reece. He was so excited about his soccer Easter basket! Then it was time for a yummy brunch. Cornerstone always has the yummiest Easter brunch for all who attend service.

Family photo after we ate. Raine did not want to sit and look pretty, she was so stinkin' cute all morning. Reece had to have a shirt & tie for Easter, so he could look like his daddy. I didn't get a very good pick of the two of them.

When we got home from church we put the kids down for a nap and tried to relax a bit ourselves. Once the kid work up we had a super quick egg hunt in our back yard and then headed to the Castillo's for a delicious Easter dinner. The kids had so much fun searching for eggs. Raine found a bunch, Reece kept getting frustrated with her. It was funny.

All in all it was a wonderful Easter. Dinner was so scrumptious and the kids had yet another Easter egg hunt. It was quite comical. Our kiddos fell asleep in the car on the way home from Castillo's. I think all of the excitement wore them out. Was your Easter as blessed as ours?

Horton

Today Mommy and Reece had a very special date! We went to see Horton Hears a Who. It was Reece's first time seeing a movie in a theater. He was so excited! We came home from church, called a sitter ate a snack and waited to leave. I showed Reece the trailer to the movie on the computer and all he could say was, "THAT"S AMAZING MAMA. We are going to watch this movie on the biggest TV ever." Raine stayed with Shelby since only big kids who were 3 years old could go to the movies. Reece was kind of bummed about that, he really wanted Raine to come. Shelby arrived and we headed out the door. My purse was full of snacks, wipes, a sippy cup and a blanket drooped over the top of it. I was praying the whole time Reece would be ready for this. He is a squirmy fella full of endless amounts of energy. During the drive to the theater I explained how we must be very quiet and sit very still because we will have popcorn, candy and a drink on our lap. I told him we will have to come home if we can't follow the rules. He was very interested in the popcorn and candy. We bought our tickets and headed in for the snacks. Reece kept saying, "Come on Mama, were gonna miss the movie." He ran ahead of me and handed the guy our tickets and then said, "Where is it mama?" We went into the theater and Reece immediately picked out our seats. The last two in the row, right on the aisle; perfect I though just in case he has to pee or doesn't make it through the movie! But he did! He was in awe during most of it. His eyes were glazed over, eating his popcorn and sucking on his ring pop. It was so stinkin cute. I think I watched Reece watch the movie instead of watch Horton myself. All in all, I can't wait to take him to another movie. Those were also his last words, "Mama can we see that again."