Reed Ruckus

The Graduate

2009-06-01T20:29:00.001-07:00

I can't believe my baby is moving on to High School. It went by way to fast. :(

Happy Birthday Joe!!!

2009-03-10T22:11:00.000-07:00

Sarah welcomes you to teenager-hood!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2009-02-15T19:37:00.000-08:00

I hope it was SWEET!

Sadie - Student of the week!

Sarah - she just took her 8th grade Cap & Gown pics. Oh, and by the way, she said she looks older than 13.

We Three Trees

2008-12-28T20:38:00.001-08:00

Some of my Christmas Decorations.

Charlie the dancing machine

2008-12-11T21:41:00.000-08:00

Chrsitmas Train

2008-12-11T21:32:00.001-08:00

Sadie's Reading Teacher invited us on a Christmas Train last weekend so Sadie, Charlie and I met Ann-Marie at the train station in downtown SB and much to my surpirise it was quite the big deal. We took the Amtrack up the Cajon pass and sang Christmas songs, ate cookies and juice, elves made balloon animals for the kids and then a special visit from Santa and Mrs Claus! All of the kids on the train got teddy bears. We had a lot of fun!

Christmas Plays

2008-12-11T21:23:00.000-08:00

This may very well be the last year I see Sarah in the traditional class Christmas Play. I don't know how much they do that in High School. Well, she went out with a bang! She had the lead roll in Ms. Ryan's production. Not the best picture but here is Sarah and her buddy Kamren. She had a lot of lines to memorize.

If you put it out there for the world to see...

2008-11-24T13:39:00.000-08:00

I loved sending my family highlights out to other family and friends. I enjoy sharing pictures of the kids and all of their goings on. But Terry's CRAZY ex wife keeps visiting the page and harrasing him about it. Why would she even look at it you ask? According to her everytime I update it I send her an email. I think we all know better than that. Do you really think people believe you? Do you believe yourself?

IT HAS BEEN A LONG TIME - GET OVER IT ALREADY!

I will email all my loved ones my new contact info and will communicate with you that way, in a secured enviroment, from now on. Happy blogging - I will still visit!

Allyson

2008-11-23T21:32:00.000-08:00

We missed you this weekend!

Brotherly Love

2008-11-23T14:22:00.000-08:00

Mission San Juan Capistrano

2008-11-18T20:45:00.000-08:00

Sadie's class went on a field trip to the Mission of San Juan Capistrano and it turned out to be a beautiful day. This Mission was founded in 1775 and in 1806 a church on the grounds was completed. It took eight years to build the then largest church in California but in December 1812 an earthquake destroyed the church in addition to killing 40 natives. These pictures show why living in California in is so wonderful. Isn't it beautiful?

A Day out with Thomas

2008-11-16T18:35:00.001-08:00

Charlie is such a typical boy. He loves all things that go, planes, cars, trucks and trains so back in August Terry and I bought tickets for A Day Out with Thomas and today was the day! It was a really nice day at the Train Museum in Perris CA. We rode the Thomas train and other trains too. We played with all of the Thomas trains on display and Bob the Builder was there too. It was a lot of fun (even though it was too hot for November).

Sadie's 10th Birthday

2008-11-16T18:19:00.000-08:00

Sadie turned 10 on the 5th. My, time flies. We celebrated by having her first sleepover. We had 5 girls come over and spend the night. Thank goodness Sarah was here and helping me. They kept busy by having a scavenger hunt in the back yard, looking for lip glosses, lotions, teen magazines etc. They ran around and played hide & seek against the neighborhood boys. We had a dance contest and watched girlie flicks. I think they only syated up until 2. Not too bad!

Boo!

2008-11-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

Rock Out!

James the Train - I did not like this costume, it looks like a mudflap, but that is what he wanted.

Sarah had a dance for the 7/8 grades at school. I set up and brought a lot of the party stuff. I did not hang out in there too long. Her Grandparents crashed it though. I told her that I did not tell them about it. Of course Grandpa wanted to dance with her and her friends - humiliating. She finally kicked him out and gave him a dirty look. I told him Sadie would appreciate him so they went over to her party.

What a cutie witch!

Long Weekend

2008-10-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from a weekend Terry and I got to steal away from kiddie activities - very rare. My friend Margie got married up in Northern California in an old mining town, Nevada City. Since our 5 year anniversary was the following weekend we decided to go and splurge on each other. We left on Friday and stayed at a B&B (picture posted). That was our first time in a B&B, we were not sure if we would like it but we did. I can't remember the last time I woke up on a Sat. morning and smelled breakfast already cooking. We hit a couple of wineries on Saturday (also new to us) and had a blast. We got a little tipsy and ended up buying a lot of wine. Saturday night was the wedding and it was very nice, Margie looked beautiful. Sunday morning Terry and I got up and drove to San Francisco to watch the Patriots play the 49ers. It was also Steve Young day and they retired his jersey. Very fun. We stayed in a fabulous hotel in downtown SF Sunday night and had dinner at a Tai resturant. Monday we drove home very relaxed and refreshed. It was a great 5 year anniversary!

Updates

2008-09-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

We are pretty much settled into our new house. A few odds and ends need to be put into place but everything looks pretty good. I will post pics as soon as I can.

The girls finished their summer by spending a few days with Riss in Oceanside. That was nice for them because we really didn't do much in terms of fun, with the move and all. Charlie and I joined them after a couple of days. We had a good time at the beach.

Sarah started her last year at Our lady of Assumption. I think she has 8th gradeitis. I see her texting and talking and whatever more than anything else lately. Sadie is in 4th grade and she is Vice President of her class, so both girls are in student council. I think she will have a good year with this teacher. I am coaching Sarah's volleyball team again this year. We are 1-1. Sadie is playing tennis again and moved up a level from the Spring season.

Charlie has discovered the computer games. He is obsessed with the Nintendo DS handheld games and the Wii. We literally need to pry them out of his hands. He did take a 4 week swimming class at our association pool once we moved in. He enjoys swimming whenever we can.

Terry and I decided after the last 3 seasons not to pay for the Sunday NFL ticket games. It is expensive and Terry said we watched too much football last year. I miss it b/c Sunday is usually my relaxing day and I like to watch while I am doing laundry. But since our teams are not off to a good start we are less invested now anyway. Terry lost Tom in the first week and Carson is out with his elbow so we have been a little sad. Unfortunately since we live in California the only games we get on network TV are the Raiders. We freakin' hate the Raiders.

This brings me to our latest update. Terry was wondering after Tom's week 1 what it felt like to tear your ACL so he did it in a dirt bike accident a week ago. We went to the Ortho today and he drained 60 cc's of liquid out of his knee. It didn't look good and judging from the noises Terry made I don't think it felt good either. He goes for an MRI next and then we wait and see what those results are before we make any other decisions. Ironically when the Dr. said "torn ACL" he said "he did a Tom Brady". Weird. Maybe that makes me Giselle?

New House

2008-07-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

We closed escrow on Friday, we are now the proud owners of 28964 Oakwood Ln. Highland CA 92346. We will begin moving slowly over the course of this week and hopefully wrap it up on Saturday. The new house is VERY similar to the Victorville house but in a very nice neighborhood, down the hill and closer to our work and the girls school. We are going to rent out our Victorville house and I think we got renters yesterday. Cross your fingers for us. Here are a few pictures.

The season is over

2008-07-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

Sarah's Softball All Star team lost last night ending a long tough season. After her regular season ends in the first week of June she plays on the All Star team for a chance to win a Championship. Her team practiced or played every day, one of the games lasted 3 1/2 hours. We are talking 12 and 13 year olds here. Her team won their district, won their sectionals but lost in the divionals. That put them in the top 7 teams of Southern California. Not too shabby. Now she can enjoy the rest of her summer.

Happy 3rd B-day Dude

2008-07-20T09:18:00.000-07:00

Charlie turned 3 on the 16th. We celebrated by going to Chuck E Cheese - yeah. Here are some pictures of Charlie doing what he loves best, digging in dirt with his trucks.

A new couch

2008-07-04T18:14:00.000-07:00

Today I bought a new couch. In fact I was so happy buying my very first new couch that I bought two and two love seats. I have never bought a couch before. I have been married twice, have 3 kids and 2 step-kids, I have bought 3 houses, owned 5 plus cars and have worked full-time for 15 years but never have I owned my own couch. I have sat my sat my butt on my parents couch, James' bachelor couch, my first husband's ex-wife's couch, my parents couch again, a friends old couch but never my own. It feels pretty good, I'm pretty happy.

Accomplishments

2008-06-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

Introducing Our Lady of the Assumptions new School President for the 2008/2009 year, fresh from leadership camp AND a new fourth grader who earned the Art, Religion and Athlete award for 3rd grade in addition to having a dentention free year!! I'm so proud :)

We had a good time at King's Island

2008-06-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

For Aunt Gini

2008-06-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

Back From Vacation

2008-05-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

We're home! Since we couldn't get on our Tuesday evening flight we ended up staying in a hotel in Columbus and flying out Wed. morning. We took a 6 am flight to Atlanta (that's on the way to SoCal right?) with Delta instead of our original carrier American. Delta doesn't care when we made our reservations and their policy is different than American so charged us $25 for an extra bag. That didn't do over very well with me so I bitched "a little". The chick must not have liked that so when we get over to the TSA they lady looks at me and says, "I hate to tell you this, but they chose your family for extra screening". Coincidence? We had 3 guys working on us and even Charlie got a pat down. Once we got in Atlanta we had to wait for the rest of the passengers to board b/c they had all of the kids in emergency rows. They ended of finding us seats, I was in the back, Terry and Charlie were together, Sadie was close to Terry by a few rows and the other two ended up in first class. All of a sudden flying wasn't so bad to them. Even though we had just fed them Sarah accepted the free breakfast. They watched 3 movies a piece and the guy next to Allyson ended up telling her, "Everything up here is free" b/c when they would offer her something she would ask, is it free?

Traveling aside we enjoyed our stay in Ohio. Back to our daily grind. I will share pictures soon, although I do not feel like I took enough this time. I wish we had had more time, it went by very fast. My love to all!

Last Person on earth

2008-03-04T07:16:00.001-08:00

that I thought would create a blog page would be my friend Tara, but she did! I added a link from my page.

2008-03-02T22:10:00.000-08:00

Hello Spring!

2008-03-02T21:47:00.000-08:00

I know it appears as if we have been avoiding posting due to an unexpected and unpleasent February 3rd - but not true. We actually have been very busy. A brief rundown and then I will share random pics.

The Superbowl actually made us sick, bronchitis and ear infections for myself then Charlie, Terry then Sadie. We missed a lot of work and school!
Terry, Charlie and I met Riss & Brad in Big Bear for a weekend of snow fun.
Sarah is playing basketball at school this year and has only 1 game left, then maybe they make the playoffs. Yesterday they played a team I do not like, the girls are very agressive at St. Anthony's and a few weeks ago broke a girls finger on Sarah's team. The girls lost yesterday but Sarah had half the teams points and her 1st three-pointer. Very exciting!
Mom and Dad took Sarah & Sadie for a night on the town to dinner and a show, They watched Peter Pan the musical at the San Bernardino Theatre. Both of the girls enjoyed it very much. Sarah had seen Wicked back in October and was itching to go again. Sadie's job was to make sure Grandpa stayed awake, I think she accomplished that.
Allyson is running track for Apple Valley High School. Her first meet was last week and ran the mile in 7.06 and then 800 where she came in second. Terry is so excited she is running, that was his thing in high school. I don't think I'd run if someone stole my purse.
Sadie is playing tennis again after taking a year off. Her first match is this coming Saturday.
Riss and I took a scrapbooking class together and made the cutest acrylic Valentine Love books - I loaded mine full of black and white pics of Terry and I during the last 4-5 years.
Cameron has been riding his dirst bike every chance he gets and when he is not doing that he and a bunch of neighborhood kids build dirt jumps for their bikes. A whole pack of them will take off for the nearest empty space with shovels in their hands.
Charlie has been very 2 1/2. Terry said he is too old for a 2 year old. His favorite things now are digging dirt (especially where Daddy doesn't want him too), watching Buzz & Woody, eating and pretty much doing whatever it is he feels like at the time. If he doesn't get to do it he will throw a fit and try and kick you. We have experienced a LOT of timeouts right now. Man can that boy get pissed, terrible temper.
I am busy with work and shuffeling the kids around to practices, dentist appts and the Dr's lately. I am also helping get ready for the huge St. Pat's Dinner and Dance our school puts on every year.
Terry is well. Busy with work and then he rides his dirtbike as often as he can too.
We made our reservations for Memorial Weekend in Ohio - can't wait. I hope as many people come as possible.
We also made our reservations for summer vacation too. We are going back to San Diego this year.
We had great weather this weekend so we worked in the yard. I pulled out all of the old bark in the front flowerbeds and laid new stuff. What a big difference. I weeded and feeded my flowers from bulbs and the roses that are newly sprouting. I also bought 2 spring pots full of tulips and spring mix flowers to set by the front door. Terry & Cameron weeded the backyard and planted some new plants. Charlie "helped".

Sorry Green & Gold

2008-01-21T18:24:00.000-08:00

We were hoping to see Brett move on too. Party is on @ our house though - if your in the neighborhood.

I know what Christmas is all about

2007-12-25T12:49:00.000-08:00

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown.

December Fun

2007-12-16T18:16:00.000-08:00

We celebrated the festive season last weekend with baking cookies, looking at lights and going to the movies. First, I took the girls to see Enchanted, we LOVED IT! Such a girl movie and I have all 3 of them loving the romantic stuff just like me. Saturday night we drove to the Mission Inn in Riverside. This is a hotel built in the early 1900's, it sits on an entire city block. For Christmas they go all out on the light and Christmas displays. There are horse drawn carriages, and Dickens Carolers walking around. We brought Vivian with us and she and Charlie just loved it. It was cold and did start to rain but we had walked around all of it by then anyway. On Sunday the girls and I baked. We made 1 rum cake, a gingerbread house and seven different kinds of cookies. Our challenge was keeping Charlie out if everything. I really don't want to know how much sugar he ended up eating, I am sure it would be terrifying. At one point when I was cleaning up I thought Charlie and our dog Bailey were ganging up on me. I would chase 1 away while the other one would be sneaking something else.

December Break

2007-12-16T18:05:00.000-08:00

We haven't had too many chances to take the RV out this year which makes us a little sad. We had no plans the first weekend in December so Terry, Charlie and I made a trip to the beach for a little down time. The weather was wonderful, but I have to say anything with Charlie involved isn't really relaxing anymore. But we had fun.

I am thankful for...

2007-11-25T10:16:00.000-08:00

Michelle & James having all of us over,
Michelle making dinner,
Marissa making 5 desserts,
playing games,
the love of my family.

Sadie on her birthday

2007-11-18T08:48:00.000-08:00

These are the pictures from Sadie's birthday. She got money, a new outfilt, healies, the Jonas Brothers CD, a new bratz doll, and stationary stuff.

Halloween - 2007

2007-11-03T20:11:00.000-07:00

I took the day off on Halloween, I'm the room Mom for Sadie's class and I made little Halloween tote bags with the kids. We then headed outside for the costume parade, then let the kids load up on cupcakes, punch and candy. Sarah's class was supposed to have a "dance" during the parade but they blew it a few days before, I felt bad and brought them cupcakes too. As you can see they don't typically dress up. Terry came home early to carve little dude's pumpkin and help me get ready for the trick or treaters. I like to wear scary masks and scare the kids, Terry walked Charlie around door to door. Charlie did not want to wear the costume and cried all the way to the first house, once he started getting candy he felt better. I hope everyone else had a SCARY night!

Happy Halloween

2007-10-28T19:04:00.001-07:00

We love Halloween! We also love having parties - lots of good people, good food, and good fun!

Happy 30th Birthday Riss!

2007-10-14T20:17:00.000-07:00

LA County Fair

2007-10-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

We missed the Fair the last couple of years but we ended up making it this year, on the very last day. The animals are always my favorite but I also enjoy the crafts. Sarah said she likes looking at the quilts. Sadie said she liked the giant food - she had a huge hot dog.

Downpour

2007-09-09T18:17:00.000-07:00

We spent Labor Day weekend in Big Bear. None of us could believe it had been 3 years since we were up there. Pathetic! Such is our busy schedule though. We got caught in a few downpours. This one was the worst. I didn't mind since the temp. had been well over 100 degrees for days. We had tried to wait it out but it had been about 1/2 already and the kids were getting restless. Terry was on his way back to get the car when I took this picture.

First Day of School - 2007

2007-09-09T18:06:00.001-07:00

Here are the pictures I took of the girls on their first day of school. Sarah is now in 7th grade and Sadie is in 3rd.

Birthday Pictures

2007-07-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Little Dude!

2007-07-27T08:16:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind. Charlie turned 2 on the 16th. His favorite things right now are his beloved CARS. He carries them everywhere and his collection has been growing so I had to buy him a little bucket to carry them in. He likes DVD's. In his rotation are CARS (of course) Nemo & Curious George. He went through a Dumbo and Bambi phase for a little while too. He loves to play outside, climb on stuff or out of stuff (the crib comes down this weekend) and animals. The ZOO was a big hit with him. He spotted the animals faster than the rest of us. We love you little dude.

Keeping Cool When It's Way Too Hot

2007-07-08T22:54:00.000-07:00

Sarah's Softball

2007-07-08T22:41:00.000-07:00

Sarah was picked for the All-Star team (again) this year. This drags, I mean extends our season a little longer. Her team won their division, so we are not done yet, Yeah. These pictures were taken on Friday night.

Summer Vacation

2007-07-08T22:23:00.000-07:00

We spent our summer vacation in San Diego this year. I love this city, there is so much to do and I love the weather. We took the kids to the zoo and Sea World. We also walked along the marina in downtown, visited Old Towne San Diego, played at the beach, the pools, and took long bike rides along the bay. It was great fun.

Happy Father's Day

2007-07-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

Terry, you are such a great Dad it makes me want to have another one! Ah, but don't get scared, I won't.

Cameron & Allyson Graduate from 8th grade

2007-07-08T22:15:00.000-07:00

Now it's on to High School!

Catch Up

2007-07-08T22:14:00.000-07:00

I haven't been able to blog in awhile so I am trying to catch up.

Happy Belated B-day Aunt Gini

2007-06-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

Terry

2007-06-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

I was going through some old scrapbooks that Terry's Mom kept to scan some pictures. These are some of my favorites.

Terry & his sister Cindy - notice the buzzcut trend.

With his first motocycle that he bought with the money he saved from his first job, a paperboy. He is about 12 or 13.

Terry with his mom at the Grand Canyon

Terry's first trip to Disneyland. His mom is carrying him and his Grandma and Aunt are in the picture as well. This must be 1964

Terry's birthday. According to the candles he is 6.

At 5 weeks old.

BUZZCUT

2007-06-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

When Mommy went out to run errands last Saturday, Daddy snuck Charlie out to get his haircut. I don't like it, he looks too old. I do think he resembles Patrick though with the blonde hair and big eyes.

Sarah turns 12!

2007-06-02T20:59:00.001-07:00

Geez! Happy Birthday girl - I love you and you are a terrific kid.

Memorial Weekend in Laguna

2007-06-02T20:45:00.001-07:00

I love this place. Everything is better in Laguna.

Happy Mother's Day to All!

2007-05-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

My family spoiled me with coffee and breakfast in bed. Then they showered me with gifts. Sadie made me cookbook filled with the favorite recipes of the kids in her class. Sarah made me a scrapbook with all of the kids pictures telling me how much they love me. Terry had all of the kids give me a spa day at a salon in town. I'm a lucky mama - but I knew that already! I hope every mom I know was spoiled too.

Happy Birthday Mom - we love you!

2007-05-12T17:59:00.000-07:00

You don't look any older to me!

Sadie's 1st Communion

2007-05-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

Sadie made her 1st communion yesterday. It was very exciting and she was so beautiful. Mom and Dad hosted a little BBQ afterwards. The kids tried to get in the pool but itwas too cold. We also celebrated Dad's Birthday!

Happy Birthday Dad - We Love You!

2007-05-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

And the Birthdays begin

2007-05-02T21:02:00.000-07:00

My handsome husband celebrated his birthday on Sunday and Cameron and Allyson turn 14 today. To honor them we had a big party at our house on Sunday. I baked each b-day person the cake of their choice. Allyson had a strawberry cake, Cameron Cookies and Cream and Terry's was German Chocolate. We rented a huge jumper thing and had a ton of food. Everyone had a good time.

Easter Pics

2007-04-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Where did March go?

2007-04-02T19:16:00.000-07:00

I can't believe we are in April - March went by way too fast. Spring is always our busiest time, it's a delight and a curse. I had so much to blog about too if I would have had the time. I missed Max, Joe's and James Birthdays. Max turned 15 on the 6th. Joe was 11 on the 11th and James, well, he just turned 41 on the 27th. My b-day was nice too. Terry bought me a cake and all of the kids made homemade cards.

We had a nice St. Patrick's Day. I took the girls and Charlie to an Irish festival and the girls school has a large adult only dinner and show. Terry and I didn't have a sitter for Charlie so I just worked. I actually went on "beer runs". It was quite humorous to me, I think the last time I ran out in the middle of a party to pick up alcohol b/c we ran out was about 15 years ago, although I don't think I was standing in line at the grocery store with bottles of Chardonnay. I also always make the family corned beef and cabbage. I don't think it turned out well this year but the kids still loved it.

Terry was called out of town for work twice. The first week I was also gone 1 night overnight for work so Charlie stayed with Aunt Michelle. He had a blast with the boys. Then Terry was in Sacramento all last week. He tells me its boring being away all by his self for work but I know he's full of it. He was at a conference, slept in every morning and one night hurried me off the phone b/c he was watching a movie on HBO (which we don't have here).

We've also been busy with the kids. Sarah started softball which her Dad coaches and Terry assists. She moved up a level so her game times are at 8:00 PM now. Sadie plays tennis and her matches are Saturdays at 8:00 AM - of course these are the mornings after the softball games. Cameron is playing baseball again this year after taking 2 years off. He just had opening ceremonies this past weekend and we'll see his first game this Thursday. Allyson runs track and has had a couple of meets already. She also has the lead in local rendition of High School Musical. She practices every Friday night and most of the day Saturday. The lead means she has to kiss this boy who we are pretty sure bats for the other team, not that there is anything wrong with that, but it makes for interesting conversation around here. Terry has raced 2 more times on his motorcycle and Charlie is pretty much just drug around everywhere. He loves to be outside so doesn't complain much.

So that is us. One Sunday I woke up and I just laid in bed and smiled. Terry asked what I was grinning about and I said I just woke up on my own, no alarm and no kids. That was my best March morning.

Adelanto Grand Prix

2007-03-03T22:16:00.000-08:00

Terry raced in the Adelanto Grand Prix last weekend. He was very hesitant and wasn't sure he should do it, so I talked him into it. Charlie and I wished him luck and then went over to the track to watch and after seeing about 200 guys out there I got a little freaked out - but he did well. It was hard for Charlie and I to keep up with him, I only saw him go around twice but he did 3 times. Terry loved it and wants to enter in more races.

Happy Belated B-day Michelle!

2007-03-03T15:53:00.000-08:00

Let it all hang out.

Thank goodness for Brangelina

2007-01-27T15:19:00.000-08:00

Right when you think everything in the world has gone wrong you get people like Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie who want to raise awareness for the hurricane damaged Gulf Coast. What better way for them to draw attention to the city of New Orleans and the entire infrastructure that has yet to be rebuilt than to purchase a $3.5 million, 6 bedroom mansion in the French Quarter. Way to be one with the people.

GET OVER YOURSELF ALREADY!

2007-01-21T20:33:00.000-08:00

The only sporting event I am going to talk about this weekend is the Amp'd Mobile Supercross on Saturday night. I bought Terry 2 tickets for Christmas. It was a cold night in Anaheim but I didn't hear Terry or Cameron complain. Terry forgot the camera - I had bought cool scrapbook paper for it too. Oh well.

What's Missing from these pictures?

2007-01-19T20:04:00.000-08:00

A pacifier! Or as we call them in our house, fibber. The little man was very grown up about it. It has been about 3 weeks now. He does it have it at night, naptime, morning - nothing. I am so thankful too b/c before I could never get a picture without that thing covering his face!

Happy New Year!

2007-01-11T19:27:00.000-08:00

Terry & I hosted for whoever wanted to come over for New Year's Eve. Dad made a big pot each of Clam Chowder and Chili - yummy - we mostly played games all night. It was a lot of fun. Mandy, that was the best picture I had of you.

New Christmas Jammies

2006-12-29T13:44:00.000-08:00

The Sutorus House

2006-12-24T19:33:00.000-08:00

James emailed me their trees. I will need to get Mandy's.

2006-12-23T16:31:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas!!! I always have. I loved helping Mom & Dad decorate the house and dragging out old memories. I would help Dad with the tree lights and re-arrange the Nativity scene all season. I try and carry-on the memories with my kids. These are some of my favorite Christmas "things" in my house.

The first picture is our new ornament St. Nick brought this year - he must have known we were in Jackson Hole this summer.
The second picture is not very good but it is a cross stitch I did the year I was pregnant with Sadie.
Third is my box of Christmas Cards. The last card I got was from Kelley Moyer - those are her 2 kiddos. I love getting the cards, And people w/out kids should send pictures too - any event that happened during the year.
Fourth is the kids tree.
Fifth is the living room tree.

We have 2 trees b/c when we had an apartment we only had room for a skinny one. The kids decorate that one all by themselves, lights and all. It sits in the family room and on that tree is all of the homemade ornaments and the St. Nick ornaments the kids get in their stockings every year. The other tree is in the living room.

Better late than never...

2006-12-23T16:29:00.000-08:00

You will be receiving your Christmas gifts late - but at least I sent them. What is it? A CD of pictures and videos from Katy & Kent's wedding. I need the newlywed's address. And Chris' too. Someone please email me.

2006-12-14T17:50:00.000-08:00

I got into a bad accident on Monday. I was rear-ended on the freeway by a 17 year old kid who doesn't have a license. Nice, I know. I had to slam on my brakes b/c 2 cars ahead of me someone got a flat tire. The car ahead of me stopped, I stopped, the kid did not. I'm not seriously hurt but my neck was killing me the first 2 days. I had my boss and co-worker in the car with me, they are sore but okay too. My car is at the auto body shop, I will find out how much damage tomorrow. Luckily I drive a gas guzzling, smog polluting SUV b/c the ass of my car is jacked. Had I been driving something smaller it would have been worse. I am grateful none of the kids were with me.

Cussin' & Shoutin'

2006-11-26T21:20:00.000-08:00

There was a lot of cussin' and shoutin' at our house. I mean come on, we had 5 turnovers and the loss of Seau, which will hurt. But as ugly as it was we pulled it out. We invited Brad over to watch the game but he chickened out. So Brad, this is how Brady looked when he slipped past Urlacker and ran for the first down - in case you missed it.

Turkey Day

2006-11-26T20:38:00.000-08:00

Terry, Charlie and I spent Thanksgiving at Mom & Dad's house. The girls went up North to see their other grandparents and Max and the twins spent the weekend with their Mom. It is kind of boring for Terry and I when that happens but that is the way it is. Mom made a great meal (I got away with just desserts). Marissa helped her get everything together and served us all. Mandy and Vivian were there too. Michelle's family hosted James' family. Here are some pictures. I hope you all had a nice weekend too.

Afghans

2006-11-14T08:01:00.000-08:00

Mom has made a ot of afghans - all the kids have at least one. Sadie still drags hers around everywhere, it is called her "smell blanket". Friday nights we usually watch movies with the kids after dinner and chill out after our busy week. The kids all drag out their blankets and lay all over the floor.

Oh yeah - Mom's Famous

2006-11-06T20:54:00.000-08:00

If you have flashplayer you can play a video clip of mom regarding her teaching style. It's loaded on the local college website.

http://coe.csusb.edu/hillside/class_clips.html

Boo Bears

2006-11-06T20:31:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Sadie Lou is 8! Happy Birthday Sadie! Time has gone by too fast and my little girl is getting so big. It seems just days ago I took her to get her first birthday picture taken, now she is - Sadie. Sadie can drive me crazy. Sometimes she is way too honest, like when she tells me my stomach still looks like I am pregnant or she doesn't like my new hair color. There are other times when she looks me dead in the face and I swear she thinks we're equals. But there are other times when she melts my heart. She will write me little notes and leave them on my pillow. She is always quick with a hug and a snuggle on the couch. I know I have many adventures with her to come.

November 4, 2006

2006-11-06T20:10:00.000-08:00

Happy Anniversary Mom & Dad!

Happy Birthday Aunt Nettie!

2006-10-29T10:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween

2006-10-29T10:21:00.000-08:00

We LOVE Halloween. It probably starts from Mom & Dad. They always made a big deal out of the holidays. They let us dress up every year and be whatever we wanted. Dad would take us to the haunted houses & mom would fry up pumpkin seeds. As we got older we would take part in decorating the house and scaring little kids. I think it has been 6 years since Riss & Brad got to join in – they wanted a party! Terry, the kids and I hosted this year. These are some of our scary and not so scary guests.

Our Volleyball Season

2006-10-23T09:24:00.000-07:00

Well we ended up loosing our last game. The team we played on Saturday was good in the fact that they returned everything - but we didn't play our best game either. I would have felt better about the loss if we had played our best, but that is how it goes sometimes. We ended up in third place though so we made the playoffs - Yipee! I have really enjoyed coaching, I have 12 really great girls. I look forward to coaching again next year.

I'm going to keep complaining...

2006-10-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

about stuff that's not fair. This beautiful woman supported her family while her husband was unemployed. Since he feels inferior financially he has to make up for it by being a liar and a cheater. I hope he feels like a man now. And I hope she is schtuping her dance partner.

NASHVILLE, Tennessee (AP) -- Country singer Sara Evans alleges in divorce papers that her husband committed adultery, was verbally and emotionally abusive, drank excessively and frequently watched pornography in their home.
Evans, 35, filed for divorce Thursday from Craig Schelske and announced through a spokesman that she was quitting ABC's "Dancing With the Stars" "to give her family full attention at this difficult time."
The couple married in 1993 and have three children ages 7, 3 and 2.
Schelske, 43 and currently unemployed, ran for Congress as a Republican from Oregon's 5th District in 2002. He is a native of Salem, Oregon.
He could not be reached for comment because there was no answer at a phone number for him Oregon.
In the filing in state court in suburban Franklin, where the couple has a home, Evans alleges that Schelske watched pornography on the couples' computers and has at least 100 nude photographs of himself in a state of arousal.
She also alleges that several photographs show Schelske having sex with other women.
According to the court documents, the oldest of the couple's children confronted Schelske when he was watching pornographic material on the television in their home.
Evans further alleges that Schelske frequently threatened her and "told her that she is crazy," threatened to take the children to Oregon and "continually interferes with (Evans') possession of and parenting time" with their children.
Evans requests child custody, possession of Franklin home and child support.
Evans was among 11 celebrities who paired with professional dancers to compete on the third season of the popular ABC reality series.
"Ms. Evans hopes that her fans and TV viewers who've supported her in recent weeks and throughout her music career will respect and understand her need for privacy in the face of these recent events," Allen Brown, her representative at Sony BMG Music Entertainment, said in a statement Thursday.
The Missouri native was recently nominated for female vocalist of the year honors by the Country Music Association. She made her recording debut in 1997 and her 2000 album "Born to Fly" went double-platinum. Her hits include "Perfect," "Suds in the Bucket," and "Real Fine Place to Start."

Are you ready for some football...

2006-10-11T21:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to us!!

2006-10-11T09:05:00.000-07:00

3 Great Years!

Another Day at the Office

2006-10-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

There have been more than a few times that Terry will tell me that he has a conference to go to or a vendor is taking him out and it turns out that he spent the day drinking beer in the skybox at the Angels game. So, yesterday I was only slightly taken aback when his "Intel" conference turned into him racing BMW's at the California Speedway. While I am working away at a place that strongly resembles an episode filmed at Dunder Miffline Terry calls to tell me that he needs $95k because he just drove this M6 coupe. Not fair.

Happy Anniversary Michelle & James

2006-09-22T08:20:00.000-07:00

Disneyland - year?

2006-09-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

Old Pictures

2006-09-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

Coaching Volleyball

2006-09-18T10:33:00.000-07:00

We had our first match this past Saturday and we won 2 straight games! I was so happy that our first week turned into a win, it gave them a big shot of confidence and seeing them get excited is the best thing. I coach 5th & 6th graders - only 3 girls (Sarah included) played last year so we are pretty raw. Sarah served well and the other team could not return it, she served up about 11 points in the first game. Next week we play a team that practices year round. I watched them before our game and the bump, set, spike almost every play. My girls are going to be freaked out about that but we will do the best we can.

Mandy & Viv

2006-09-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken on Charlie's B-day. Vivian & Charlie are often in daycare together.

The Dog

2006-09-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I am upset. I can't believe we turned these guys over, and it has nothing to do with my secret crush on Leland. How many criminals are hiding out in Mexico because the Mexican government will not hand them over to us because we have capitol punishment? What is wrong with us? Something is not right in this case. I believe there is more to the story. I admit I love watching this show. At first it was because I thought they were an absolute train wreck but I have over time been endeared by this family.

Where were you when the world stopped turning

2006-09-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

Glenn and I always had the channel 4 news on in the mornings and the morning of September 11th was no different. Glenn was in the kitchen and as I walked through the hallway into the family room and kitchen he tells me that a plane has crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City. We continue to get ready for work and the kids for school thinking that it was a horrible accident. I do not believe we knew at that time that the plane was a commercial airline. The TV is still on as the 2nd plane, United Airline Flight 175 hits the second tower. I do not remember what the newscasters were saying but I knew the 2nd plane was not an accident and that this must be a terror attack. I could not tear myself away from the TV but I also did not want the kids to see the fear and panic on TV and with myself. I left the TV on and was stunned to hear that a plane had crashed into the Pentagon. I screamed and hollered to Glenn who is now in the bedroom. Max comes running to me and says, "Mama you're scaring me". At this point I stop all morning activities and stare at the TV. Channel 4 has cut from local news and has turned to the Today show. A helicopter is filming the burning of the towers and the cameras cut away to different positions and angles. I think it was Katie Couric's voiceover at 9:49 (6:49 California time) that says exactly what I was thinking - Something just happened as the tower collapsed.

I did end up going to work that day although I do not believe I worked at all. I wanted to pick up the kids and go home. I think I cried all evening watching the news and hearing of the terrible stories of missing loved ones. The makeshift "Have you seen this person" were images I will never forget.

Terry was at work that day as well. He had just returned from New York City on Sunday evening the 9th. Although he did not have time to go to the Twin Towers on his visit he took a picture of the Manhattan skyline and kept the picture on his office door for a long time.

For my Beer Drinking Friends - Boycott MILLER

2006-09-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Chicago Tribune
Why this immigrant rights march is brought to you by Miller

By Oscar AvilaTribune staff reporterSeptember 1, 2006

Marchers had to duck into fast-food restaurants for water when they first took to Chicago's streets in support of illegal immigrants five months ago. At the next two marches, family-owned grocery stores offered free bottled water from trucks emblazoned with their names.This time, as demonstrators march from Chinatown to House Speaker Dennis Hastert's (R-Ill.) Batavia office this weekend, they will have Miller Brewing Co., as a sponsor. The brewer has paid more than $30,000 for a planning convention, materials and newspaper ads publicizing the event.The support of a major corporation for a controversial political cause shows how fierce the competition has become to woo the growing market of Latino consumers.For Miller, the march offered a special chance to catch up. This spring the brewer drew the ire of pro-immigrant forces over contributions to U.S. Rep. James Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.), who sponsored legislation that would crack down on illegal immigrants. That prompted a short-lived boycott by some Latino groups.Now, march advertisements feature not just the organizing committee's trademark blue globe but Miller's logo and a Spanish translation of its "Live Responsibly" slogan, a company effort to build goodwill among Latinos.But this march is no Cinco de Mayo parade. The politically charged event will promote a controversial plan to end deportations and offer legal status for all 11 million to 12 million undocumented immigrants. That creates potential pitfalls for any businesses lending support, experts say.At the same time business sponsorships have forced activists to confront whispers that they are commercializing their movement when they accept much-needed donations."We would love to have 20 corporate logos. It doesn't mean we are selling the movement out," said Jorge Mujica, a member of the March 10 Committee. "The principles and demands remain the same. They are helping out this movement and we are happy with that."Labor unions remain the movement's backbone with four major unions bringing at least 600 marchers on buses from throughout Chicago. Religious groups have been key too. Some marchers will bed down in churches and a mosque.But businesses have become vital to this weekend's Immigrant Workers Justice Walk, which will cover 45 miles to Hastert's district office. Hundreds of marchers plan to cover the entire span from Friday through Monday, and organizers need food and water for them.Sometimes political and commercial messages are mingled.At a July march, Chicago-based food producer V&V Supremo printed signs with its logo that urged "Moratorium Now, Legalization Yes."Jimenez Market, an area chain, had its sign on display as workers passed out more than 5,000 bottles of water and other supplies worth nearly $17,000. Co-owner Jose Perez acknowledged it is good publicity but stressed that "we are supporting our people. Without them, our business would go downhill."This weekend, the Los Comales restaurant plans to donate 500 tortas, Mexican sandwiches filled with steak, ham and other toppings. The Laredo Bakery is donating bread while other restaurants are donating water, fruit and other supplies, organizers said.Those businesses are natural allies--"part of the same brotherhood," as one marketer put it.But the presence of Miller at a welcoming reception the day before the Aug. 12-13 planning convention raised eyebrows.The convention brought together labor unions, anti-war groups, immigrant service organizations and even socialist political candidates.Hours before bashing NAFTA and U.S. foreign policy, participants at the Aug. 11 reception mingled with the Miller Girls, the company's public relations ambassadors, amid a display of Miller logos.That Miller was involved in the first place is one measure of the growing power of immigrants. After the boycott announcement, the company approached march organizers to try to find common ground, and agreed to back the march organizers' efforts.Miller is also bankrolling informational ads in Voces Migrantes, or Migrant Voices, a community newspaper in Chicago, and has promised scholarships for area Latinos.Mathew Romero, the company's local market development manager, said Miller felt it was important to speak out against Sensenbrenner's legislation, though his campaign was one of many the company supported.Romero noted that company founder Frederick Miller was a German immigrant and many current executives are foreign nationals. Miller is now part of London-based SABMiller.Romero said he wasn't worried that some opponents of illegal immigration would be upset at the company's support of "the free movement of people, labor, goods and services.""As long as you are stacking facts against facts, they are free to make their own decisions. We will stand by our positions," he said.George San Jose, president of the San Jose Group, a Chicago-based marketing company specializing in the Hispanic market, said he understands why companies chase Hispanic purchasing power, which tops $700 billion annually in the U.S. Brewers, he said, have been especially aggressive.But San Jose would advise clients that there are better ways."A company sponsoring one of the two sides of the immigration debate is no different than a company sponsoring groups for or against abortion [rights]. It's one of those heated political debates that companies should stay clear of," he said.At the request of march organizers, media executive Robert Armband sent e-mails to thousands of business contacts, asking if they would consider helping the March 10 Committee."It certainly is an opportunity to reach the masses, but it might not be the right vehicle to come out as a sponsor," said Armband, publisher and chief executive of La Raza, a Chicago newspaper.March organizers say they have not made any full-fledged sales pitches to major corporations and are having internal discussions about whether they should make a real push. That can be a tough decision, according to march organizer Gabe Gonzalez.Gonzalez said he represents those in the movement--maybe half the total, he thinks -- who don't even consider themselves capitalists. Many have been involved with labor campaigns targeting specific companies.March organizers shot down a suggestion that they approach Coca-Cola, for example, because of what they perceive as the company's labor abuses in the developing world, a cause celebre among liberal activists.Although immigrant activists see legalization as an issue of social justice, Gonzalez said corporations might back the idea as a way to protect their bottom line. Whatever the motivations, Gonzalez said he would cooperate with almost any company willing to back the cause."That's the nature of politics. You form coalitions based on mutual self-interest," Gonzalez said. "So will we work with corporations? We will work with anyone who will work with us."

Wedding Pictures

2006-09-04T15:24:00.000-07:00

I promise I will send them all out.

Wedding Recap

2006-09-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

I had a great time at the wedding - I'm so glad Charlie and I were able to go. We are both exhausted, he is on his third nap today. I am wishing that I was as well but alas I am doing laundry and making a grocery list. A few of my favorite things about this weekend & the wedding;

Seeing family. I think the most amount of time that had gone by was seeing Katy. I believe the last time I saw her was Rissa's wedding in 97? Or was it my wedding in 95? Too long regardless.
The flowers, especially after I looked through the pictures.
The cake. I thought is was beautiful - I can't believe I never had a piece. I was too busy chasing the babe.
The church. Absolutely gorgeous.
Dancing some sort of line dance with Mom and Aunt Gini and being "footloose" with Mike. I have to admit that the only reason I knew a good portion of the songs is b/c the kids have me download them onto their MP3 players. It made me feel old. I was happy to hear Bon Jovi - and I sang my a$$ off to it.

I wish I would have made it to the bar after the reception and I wish I had seen the karaoke Friday night- maybe at the next one!

First Day of School

2006-08-29T22:17:00.000-07:00

A 2nd grader & a 6th grader

Big Boy Haircut

2006-08-29T21:48:00.000-07:00

Not my idea - his Father's. I cried, enough said.

Flashback Friday

2006-08-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

8th Grade

2006-08-13T10:56:00.000-07:00

These were taken on Friday. Allyson & Cameron's first week back at their last year of Jr. High. A new school opened and they were switched but all of their friends came too so all is well. And do you know how the first week went? BORING ! Already?

Sarah's All-Star Game

2006-08-10T21:50:00.000-07:00

This is the 3rd year that Sarah has played past the regular softball season and into All-Stars. Her team won district so I was waiting to post the pictures once I got one with her HUGE trophy, but I didn't want to wait any longer. She has turned into a really good player.

For Michelle

2006-08-10T21:47:00.000-07:00

I was going through some old pics and I thought you would like this one.

Oh - I can upload and embarass us all day...

2006-08-08T09:04:00.000-07:00