JKL*L

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

2009-11-02T21:02:00.000-08:00

The boys had a blast this year. We made it an entire block which says something since both boys walked the entire thing... And we filled two pumpkins. Liem was so cute trying to say "trick or treat" and "thank you" He didn't understand he only got one piece and tried to grab more from the tray/bowl several times... Luke on the other hand had to show us each and every piece he got after he left the houses.

Surprisingly we did not see any other Woody's or Dinosaurs! I say every year I will attempt to make their costumes the following year but we will see... :)

Spells...

2009-09-25T20:55:00.000-07:00

It has been about a year since they started and they have occurred about 6 times. We are always told they are normal but nothing more... The latest breath holding spell happened Tuesday and was by far the scariest. Imagine for a moment your child going unconscious in your arms, body stiff, and eyes rolling back... It usually takes 30 seconds for him to come to. This time it took near 2 minutes. These spells are scary, as scary as Luke's code in the hospital. When I took Liem to the ER that night I expected the worse. How could I not. How normal is it for a child to pass out repetitively and something not be wrong... Low and behold it took the Naval hospital ER ped Dr's to inform me off breath holding spells.
http://www.webmd.com/parenting/tc/breath-holding-spells-topic-overview

There is link for some common knowledge. And in some odd way it makes the spells less scary, well for one they said no one has ever died from them, which has been my fear. I just have to wonder why I went a year without being informed of the term "breath holding spells". I may be a little dramatic, or watched one to many Grey's episodes but when it comes to my children and their lives I worry excessively. We have been handed a lot and and nothing is stopping one more curve ball so I try to be prepared... But honestly it makes me feel more at ease knowing that this is common and he will outgrow it eventually... Not to mention the Dr's are dotting their I's and crossing their T's by referring him out to a pediatric neurologist.

We will add the newest specialist to Liem's list... But at least we are aware and he is healthy. Well for the most part :)

Halloween...

2009-09-22T10:05:00.001-07:00

Can't believe it is almost Halloween time again... Luke was pretty set on being Woody from Toy Story but seemed to toss around Spider man as well. I like the theme the boys but when Liem saw the Dinosaur costume he fell in love. We put it on in the store and he started roaring at everyone... To cute... So I thought about it and T-rex is in Toy Story and one of the main characters so... Luke can be Woody and Liem T-Rex :)

We have so many fun costumes in our dress up bin ;)

Happy 4th Lucas Michael!

2009-09-09T13:06:00.001-07:00

I thank God each and everyday for bringing you into our lives... Throughout the past four years you have taught me so much about not only being a mother but about being a better person... Wether it has been you simple laugh or the fight of your life I have learned from you, I love you, and I cherish you...
I cannot believe my oldest baby is truly 4 years old.

1 Month old

2 months old

6 Months old

1 year old (I stink and lost his 1st party pics)

15 months old

1.5 years

2nd birthday

3rd birthday

This past weekend

Happy 2nd Birthday Liem Jon...

2009-08-31T15:30:00.001-07:00

Happy 2nd birthday to my second lil man...

" I'll love you forever...

... I'll like you for always...

... as long as I'm living my baby you'll be"

I remember wondering how I would ever love another baby as much as Luke... It is not something that can be explained or understood... But it was never hard... My heart is full of love for both boys :) I am truly and honestly blessed and not a day passes that I do not fully grasp that!!!
I love you Liem Jon!!

California so far.

2009-08-13T20:14:00.000-07:00

I like it. I really really like it... Things are nearly as expensive as Hawaii if not a little cheaper. With proper planning we are doing ok without our cost of living allowance :) On the plus side we can afford Liem's fruit addiction. So cheap here and all he eats are fruits. The main Commisary which has the better selection is about 17 miles from us but we do have one that is sufficent right down the street from us. The shopping however is endless here and 15-20 miles in either direction I have endless options. It is nice exploring and figuring this place out.

The weather honestly has been amazing! AMAZING! We dont have central air and honestly we do not need it. The highest our temp in the house got today was 72, it never rains, although it never feels warm enough for me to need a pool. We have one right down the street but when I went into it I was freezing. Maybe the Hawaiian in me ;) We are right by the ocean and I am sure that cools us down quite a bit, but as of now I cannot complain at all on the weather front.

The people... I am new and do not know many people, with the exception of Angela, so everyone has something to offer and opposing views. The board I found is unique. I find it interesting after such an amazing group of women in Hawaii. The girls on this board tell girls to google their quiestions on life experiances on Pendleton. Maybe it is the repetition of the quiestions as people join to ask these quiestions, but I think (and maybe I am spoiled) but pcsing is tough enough let alone mving to a new base the least people can do is share experiences and advice on the quiestions. There also seems to be a TON of drama. Do not get me wrong I like reading the drama especially since I am not involoved but it seems like everyone jumps on the bandwagon.

From the board I have went to and hosted a playgroup. I enjoyed myself and have met some nice people from those groups. I am optimistic about meeting new people. Deep down though I have to wonder "will I ever meet people, a support system, like I had in Hawaii". Do not get me wrong as I formed a special bond with EACH memeber :) but I thought it would be easier because it was easy in Hawaii. But maybe it was fate that all of K-bay U was in Hawaii when we were. Maybe it was fate that are husbands deployed again and again while we were there, and maybe it was fate that we all found one another. I miss that, I'll miss that, I hope to find it here, but most of all I hope to one day have us all back together again. (at least for a reunion with Valerie and her undies ;) ).

So far I am trucking on in this unknown territory. It is ironic to me that I dislike change as much as I do but I seem to have an aversion for fear of new places and people. ( I do not even know if that makes sense, but it does to me). I thought about it tonight and I happy, (I will be happier when J gets of this cycle and the next), but I am happy and optimistic.

PS I will add pics soon :)

I'm back....

2009-08-08T10:36:00.001-07:00

Last night I had a brilliant idea for a blog but somewhere between sleep and fighting Liem I lost it... So I will settle on a recap to fill everyone in on the craziness that was our life for a few months...

We left Hawaii... Harder than I ever thought it would be... Deep down it was our home and leaving it was not easy, nor was leaving the Beach, weather, or sun... And the saddest part is I can no longer say we live in Hawaii. Soon I won't even be able to say we just moved from Hawaii, and eventually we will change the plates on the explorer... But as always I am grateful for the experience, the friends, and the time we had...

The flight was ahhh alright... 2 Valium and notta. I guess I am just that afraid or have an extremely high tolerance (thanks Mom and Dad). It took about 5% of the edge off but that's about it... Important thing is I made it... I did. We had a few days in CA to secure our house and see base and then we went onto Ohio...

We had a blast in Ohio, minus the weird sleep schedule Luke and Liem followed. We ran ragged all over Ohio and even into PA, but it was wonderful to see everyone and for everyone to see the boys. Luke had the time of his life and still asks about everyone. Liem probably just wondered what the heck was going on... It is a lot of change for little ones but luckily they seemed to go with the flow.

Now we are 100% settled in Cali, well we were about 2 weeks ago but I have been all over the place since arriving. Household goods arrived the 23rd and I was unpacked and decorated by the 25th. As of now I like it here. Driving is a little crazy but Hawaii prepared me for it. Weather is amazing. We are right off the ocean again and get a wonderful breeze. We do not have central air but honestly we do not need it. The boys allergies and mine for that matter are better than ever. Seems like we have so much at our disposal and one day we will get to it :) J's work schedule is less than stellar right now but we knew it was coming.

We are close to the Hanuna's :) and get to see them regularly which is nice since we knew no one coming into this. I have been to a few playgroups and the girls seem nice. A great thing about our development is everyone has 2 or more kids which means there are kids to play with everywhere.

I hope everyone is well and I will be checking in on all the blogs I follow :)

The chapter is almost done...

2009-06-12T16:02:00.001-07:00

We packed out yesterday with minor to no bumps in the road. It was easy but overwhelming at the same time. I was left looking at our life on a truck and it hit me that we really are moving... I know it sounds odd but for awhile it was just in theory... something I talked about and dreamed about. Staring it in the face forced me to face it. I have so many emotions and a huge one is sadness. Our life was here. Our children have been raised here. We have met some of the most amazing people in our lives while being in Hawaii... I read once "So much of what we know about love comes from home." I find it most true right now. This is/was our home, more importantly our first home as a family. We have grown, changed, lost, and loved here and now it will be in the past tense. I will truly always hold Hawaii in my heart. It will always hold some deep meaning and connection to our home. However as is the military we will know and love many homes. I told J yesterday that the only thing that is constant is change itself... So true.

So we face the last weekend in paradise in an empty house that needs cleaned with two busy bored children. I do however get my hubby back this evening which will be amazing. Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we continue the move process. I got the flight itenary and it was all I could do not to fall over from fear :) Keep the prayers coming. TIA!

Sick...

2009-06-07T23:41:00.000-07:00

Well I had a productive week last week finishing the scheduling of our move, the flights off the rock, and shipping Lola... We were however blind sighted by some sorta cold that put us all out of commission for the entire weekend. Luckily we didn't have anything that had to be done this weekend although we managed to get a ton done around the house. Pictures, curtains, etc are off the walls. Minor things are packed and much is separated. I feel ready for the move although I know it will take me by surprise come Thursday.

It will be a fast moving week and J gets home next Friday after graduating his MCIS course. We are ready to have him home and I am sure he is ready to be home. I am hoping for a fun, relaxing last weekend in Hawaii... Holy heck did I just say last weekend in Hawaii... I'm hoping for some beach, pool time and visiting a few restaurants we will miss. Everything is lined up, all it is going to take is getting through this week. I am praying for any and all smooth vibes or extra vibes you all can spare... We all know my fear of flying and being the fact that I have successfully not flown to the Mainland in over two years that makes this flight that much more difficult... No one can understand it unless they know it but I would appreciate some prayers for safe travels, and an uneventful move :)

Growing, Growing, Growing...

2009-06-01T23:02:00.000-07:00

Seriously where does the time go. Liem turned 21months today. In a few short months I will have a 2 year old and a 4 year old... Honestly where has it all gone... Luke had an appt today and I always knew he was on the bigger side but he measured in at 43 1/2 inches and weighed in at 43 pounds... I guess carrying him around is keeping me in shape at with those stats! :) He is still on the top of the chart at 98%. I swear the kid will be taller than me and J before we know it... On the other hand we have our tall string bean. I don't know his current stats but the kid is skinny mini I had to start buying 12month shorts again because anything bigger he takes off to easily, usually in public, lol...

It is funny the difference I see between these two.... They really are different and the same in so many ways. Liem is starting to repeat a lot of words like Dinosaur, helicopter, etc. Big words that come out somewhat close, altho I have been deciphering mumble jumble for a few years. However Liem will only do it for me, he will not do it for J on the phone, or friends he only shows his "tricks" to me where he is most comfortable, I swear strangers prbly wonder if he can talk, but it is his personality and his nature. Luke on the other hand couldn't be stopped always showing and doing tricks. I love that they have their differences and similarities because it is these things that will allow them to challenge and grow from on another down the line...

Randoms...

2009-05-28T17:10:00.000-07:00

LOL here are some of the boys... Luke loves basketball altho he wishes it were baseball... lol. Cant beat an energy burning activity. Liem is insane in every aspect. Hates diapers and goes nakie 95% of the day... Luke is also sporting his cowboy boots as he would call them... They are tooooooooo much fun!

Things are moving forward...

2009-05-23T17:59:00.000-07:00

Welp it is almost 100% official... We are leaving Hawaii... Really and truly. I went this week and battled it out with TMO to get some dates nailed down. This whole issue was emotional draining and stressful. Since J is in school he will not get orders until the last second, some schools do it a month or a few weeks out... Not Camp Pendleton so J will more than likely get order 3 days before graduation... After a lot of what ifs anger, and some crying I us scheduled for a pack out date... Because let's face it in a few weeks nothing will be available. So excited and happy I don't have to worry about it anymore...

However now it is true we are leaving... Lola flies out on the 4th, I cancelled cable and Menehune, J graduates the 12th as well as us packing out, we have to get the car shipped at the last possible moment, and hop a flight to Cali before heading to Ohio for a month... And this is all in a month time span... Wow. I'm ready but the expedited plan stinks a little. :)

We have been talking to Luke a lot about the move. I don't think he gets it all but is grasping the fact that we are leaving Hawaii, visiting Ohio, and moving to Cali. He just tells me to make sure I pack his favorite clothes and toys... Kids.

Hope everyone else is well and that plans are falling into place for you all as well :)

Another one bites the dust...

2009-05-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

Our poor little Toshiba bit the dust... Mind we we bought it used off of someone else a few years back. It has already batteled one virus and gotten a new hard drive. I have two efficent types of anti virus and spyware programs on the computer but some lameo has nothing better to to than stimulate the economy by hacking into compurters and infecting them... Makes me mad. I could have replaced the hard drive again but it is old and behind in terms of technology...

So I refuse to fall prey any longer we upgraded to a MacBook... Different yes, but easy to switch yes.... I havnt had to many difficulties yet but am trying to figure out buttons and what not. Things are different but it is a computer. I even added some extra Norton protection for safe measures... We have lost all of our pictures again... Thank God we have Dropshots. My biggest concern are my itunes... I cannot get into the old computer to switch the settings so that I can share my music on more than one computer.... Let's hope I figure it out...

Slowly we are becoming Apple people :) Luke likes the the apple on the back of my computer. Lol so simple to please.

Dr Update...

2009-05-16T00:02:00.000-07:00

So I had to yet again hold down one of my children for a procedure... It never gets easier and I could feel the tears coming but I pushed through them. I hate putting them through pain, knowing they are scared and yet I am the one holding them down... I hate it... I can see Liem is a fighter and stubborn as hell. He fought through bit with every bit he had. Yes I wanted him to settle for the Dr but at the same time I am proud of him for fighting with all he had :)

The Dr says he tested postive for the virus CMV, and forgive me but I hvent researched it yet, but it is simialar to Taxio in that it happens in utero and can lie dorment forever. However Liem was ok today. Still scaring in the back or his right eye near his retinal vision but the scar is done and will not spread any further, he also does not have any other "new" lesions. So as of now he is good, but he will need follow up by a Retinal specialist every 6months or so... Of course I am nervous of what could be but all I can think now is thank God he has some vision and isnt blind. J keeps thinking of the worse case sceniros but bottom line is he can see, and we can strengthen that eye, It could have spread to his brain causing developmental delays but it didnt... I have to be thankful for that... Although I have wondered why... I just pray and ask everyone else to pray that this virus doesnt comeback... It is bad enough deal with the effects once I just hope it does not resurface...

And while we are praying if we oculd say one more for me... The Dr found a Mole she doesn't like and is sending me to a Derm. to have it looked at. I have been pretty adament about sunscreen lately but admit to slacking many times... Let's pray it is nothing serious... Thanks :)

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T13:55:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to take a minute and wish all the Momma's out there a Happy Mother's Day. Being a Mother is amazing, rewarding, challenging, and at times overwhelming all rolled into one. Ours jobs are far harder than many imagine but we do it and we do not think of it as work. So on our day let's thank others, and pat ourselves on the back for the gift we have :)

I want to thank my boys on Mother's Day as well. I love these lil men more than they will ever know, or imagine. They are without a doubt in my mind the best thing that has ever happened to me. They have changed me as person and challenged me to see the world in a better light. I look forward to forever because I will spend it as their Mother :)

a>

Liems animal noises!

2009-05-08T16:00:00.001-07:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Somewhat clear. He is also working on Cow noises, pig noises, duck noises, and monkey noises. He thinks they are funny and I think they are cute when he says them.He is also repeating almost every and all words I say. Some come out funny and others sound close to what we say.

Not much else going on. We are waiting for some orders so we can get the move on... I thought about it today and we only have two paychecks left until we say aloha to hawaii... Im ready and I know I have talked about a lot but it is exciting and sad all in one... Soon we can make the move.

Update on Liem's eye...

2009-04-30T10:58:00.001-07:00

So the results came back for the 2nd time as negative for Taxioplasmosis (sp) and the Opthamologist was shocked... She was certain he had been exposed and was glad but also stumped by the results. Liem is being referred out to a Retinal specialist in the next few weeks and he will look at him and maybe have a better explanation... Im hoping it is something minor and will not affect him anymore. I am hoping in three years from now Liem will be able to tell us he can see perfectly fine out of that eye even with the scaring.

On another Liem note he is well on his way to the terrible two's and if my memory serves me right it gets a lot worse at three. lol... I love this hands on stage but do not miss being on my toes at all times.

Luke's World.

2009-04-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Luke has been so interesting these past few weeks with his questions and comments. It reminds me each and everyday how innocent children get to be at least for the time being. The other day we were talking about God, a recurring convo lately, and I was trying desperately to explain that God takes care of people and that's why we pray and try to do good. Luke looked at me and said "Mommy no, God doesn't take care of us you do!", lol... Of course it melted my heart but I had to point out the bigger picture to him.

Luke has also been very concerned with Death and dying. He asks me all the time about it and why it happens. I think it scares him a little and of course I try to assure him we will be VERY old when our time comes but in reality who knows when it will happen. I really do not want him asking or thinking about death but he has and I cannot ignore it especially because important people have died in his life. So anyone with suggestions on this subject! lol...

Luke has also told me he loves me more than Mickey Mouse, the moon, the sky, the trees, and more than his toes. lol. He makes me smile on more than one occasion a day and for this time in my life I am thankful I get to live in a 3 1/2 yr olds world. Luke's world...

Baby Maddie

2009-04-23T00:06:00.000-07:00

I have been following a blog that is touching and heartbreaking all in one. I came across this blog through one of my military wife forums and have been following since. It seems that this little girl, Maddie, and her parents Heather and Mike have thousands following, sharing stories of their own, and kind words of comfort and encouargment...

I can't help but wonder how many people have not heard of this little girl.

This is the link to Heathers blog.
http://www.thespohrsaremultiplying.com/

As a Mother I cannot imagine the pain and sorrow of losing my child, and yet this story seems to tear at me everytime I come across it. Heather and Mike are facing something parents should never have to know, or endure let alone live through. It makes me thankful time and time again for the life I have, for the life my children have. Reading about Maddie's love for life while enduring pain. Her heart was fuller at 17months than most people ever know. She fought with a smile on her face and know I can only picture her as a sweet angel in heavan.

I remember when Luke was sick in the hospital, and it is hard for me to think back on it. I think I chalk it up to another childhood illness but the bottom line it Luke was sick, very sick. We almost lost him and I remember thinking "I have no idea how to live my life without my little boy" on more than one occasion. I prayed harder than I have ever prayed in my life and I was more scared in those few weeks than I ever have been in my entire life. Reading about Maddie reminds me of arriving at the hospital thinking it was something minor when it ended up being so much more. As a parent you quiestion yourself, as I did, but as cliche as it sounds God always has a plan.

Luke's illness is nothing compared to baby Maddie's but after reading her story, her mothers story, anyone will find a way to relate.

I am writing about this because it was on my mind, and has been for a few weeks. It truly does break my heart, and it breaks my heart that her parents have to face this world without her. They have thousands of people following them and offering words but I figured a few more could not hurt. Take what you can and will from this, I just wanted to share Maddie's story.

A little of this and a little of that....

2009-04-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

Well I know I have been slacking big time these days but amazingly we have been rather busy. The weather is finally Hawaiian feeling again and the boys and I have been spending time outside with neighbors and friends.

First Happy Easter!

It was a nice relaxing easygoing kinda day for us. I braved church and am a little nervous to take both of them back... haha... The boys seemed to have a ton of fun and liked all present the Easter Bunny brought.

Luke started basketball.

There are videos on dropshots. The whole thing is so cute. They are definitely not great but it is interesting to see them interesting in learning and trying their hardest. I have some better shots from this last practice but haven't uploaded them yet.

Everything else is going good. J and I bit the bullet and bought out tickets home to Ohio this summer... I'm praying with all I have everything else will fall into place. We definitely shaved a few days off where we could to try and ensure we would not have to change the ticket... I couldn't pass up the ticket prices... I am officially excited to know we will be in Ohio in less than two months... Scared of the plane yes but excited. lol.

I am so glad that the weather has shaped up a little around here although it will make leaving paradise even harder... I am ecstatic to get a new experience, to open another chapter, to move forward like so many of our close friends have, but I am sentimental about Hawaii... I am sure I will be sentimental about Cali when we leave there bur Hawaii was our first home together where we grew as a family... A lot has happened here. I'll miss Hawaii and as the time approached I find it harder to believe we are leaving here.

Bye Bye again...

2009-04-06T22:05:00.000-07:00

(I love how happy Luke looks!)
I know I cannot complain since it is only 7 weeks and he could still be with 3/3 and just have headed out for 7months, but none the less the time apart stinks... Luke missed him and Liem is walking around the house calling his name... I guess that is what life is about having people to miss and getting the chance to miss them.
I am excitied that after this 7weeks we will FINALLY be done with seperations... We will finally get to start the next chapter and this time apart stands for something... I can only ask for thoughts and prayers that J has a safe time... The last thing we need is an injury...

Beach time

2009-04-06T22:01:00.001-07:00

The wind and weather has been a little wild here lately and although nothing compared to snow it is still chilly for us. We had a nice day last week and decided to head to the beach for a little bit... Both boys loved it as usual!

Easter Bunny

2009-04-03T22:14:00.001-07:00

We took the boys down to the NEX today to see the Easter Bunny. Luke was super excited and cute. He kept talking to the bunny during the picture. Liem on the other hand screamed but we managed to get a laugh out of him... We are thankful we didn't end up in it again this year!

Catch Up...

2009-04-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

We've been a little busy latley although nothing to exciting... We had a family friends birthday party this past weekend and odds and ends to tie up before J leaves this weekend for California...

We got our advanced housing application in for Cali and we are #19 on the list for the brand new housing in San Onofre. We will probably get moved down quite a bit in the next few months because we cannot check in until July but when we get there we will move up on the list... It was one of my big stressors and I am glad we are atleast on the list...

I am trying to get all the other ducks lined up for the move but have to remember it is still 2months or so away...

Im anixous to get home and actually thought about flying home for a few weeks. My Grandma, my last living Grandparent, suffers from Alzhemiers and it is progressively getting worse. I was never exceptionally close to her but we were close. She is my Mom's mother and I would love to see her and say good-bye to her before she passes... The disease has to be horrible. It is to the point where she forgot how to talk and swallow... I do not want her to suffer anymore but at the same time I want to say good bye, and let her know she has people who remember and love her... I guess we will see...

The boys are good. Luke has been working on writting his uppercase letters and writing his name... He is good with L's and U's but has a hard time with the the K and E... Although O's are his favorite letter... We have also been working on the recognition of letters in books and what not. Liem is still hitting the potty training pretty hard. He usually goes a few hours in the AM without a diaper and we have some accidents but most of the time he gets on the potty. He is also starting to repeat a ton of words... I am a little concerned that most of them have to do with Dora the Explorer... haha...

We dont have a ton planned for this weekend. I think we will cook out, dye easter eggs with J, and see the Easter Bunny... I am hoping to have a lot of beach time while J is gone. Hope everyone has a good day!!

#2

2009-03-26T15:39:00.000-07:00

Talking on the phone.

Potty time

Liem surprised me this morning by going number 2 on the potty... I have to laugh that I am blogging about this but Im proud of my little man...
We are no where close to being potty trained but atleast he is getting used to it!

Joining the band wagon!!

2009-03-23T23:04:00.001-07:00

We got Luke a Wii... Although I have wanted one for a little while as well. I figured it would keep Luke and I entertained in the next few weeks... So far he loves it and I figure we will stick to the sports game for now... Although I'm thinking Mario Brothers 3 will be purchased soon enough! :)

Sand BAR!!!

2009-03-23T22:59:00.001-07:00

We finally made our way out to the Sand Bar and had a blast... It was a little cloudy and windy which made being in the water warming than being out of it... Luke drove the boat with J for a few minutes and Liem loved it!!

Im hoping we can get out there again before we leave but the time is dwindling... J is out of her in less than two weeks and we will follow 7-8weeks after that... I shutter to think of the stress, I am sad to think of leaving, and I am anxious... LOL if any of that makes sense. :)

Some words...

2009-03-16T15:39:00.001-07:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Hawaiian babies...

2009-03-16T15:17:00.000-07:00

We finally got Luke to understand that he needs to wear clothes... Now he ask for clothes as soon as he gets out of the bath and covers his privates, so no one including Mom, can see them... Took forever, I thought the kid would go in his birthday suit for years...

However our other Hawaiian baby has decided to start undressing himself... Apparently he prefers his birthday suit now. I laid him down for a nap in sweat pants and a long sleeved shirt. When I got him out of bed he was in nothing but his diaper... Luke can hardly undress himself and Liem can... Hopefully he leaves the diaper on for a little while longer... I guess being raised in Hawaii has it's drawbacks! :)

Accomplished...

2009-03-10T23:21:00.000-07:00

Sunday was the last day of my final class... Algebra sucked and was hard but I managed to pull off an A... I now have an associates in Psychology and in a few months to a year will go back for my bachelors...

I always said finishing school was something I would do, and now I am just happy that I have done it!!

Here's to no homework for a little while!!!

Goodbye...

2009-03-09T20:48:00.001-07:00

It seems the more I do the easier they'd get, but it is opposite... I've never been one big on change, or good byes. They scare me and make me sad. I've done them with some close friends, and my hubby several times, but it doesn't seem to have gotten any easier with practice...

I think anyone who knows me knows Bobi. I think in the past three years we have been a package deal. lol... Although I am excited for both of our futures, I am sad that we have to face something without the other, and sad that we won't be 5minutes away anymore... I am nervous that we will change and that we will somehow not fit anymore... (I doubt it but it scares me nonetheless).

I am thankful for the 2 1/2 years that I had our friendship and the lifetime that it will continue, for all they she stood by me through, and for being my voice in situations where I was not strong enough to have one, and for millions of other things. We faced SO much together deployments, hospitals, births, upsets, looses, gains, etc... I think in the past 2 1/2 years our friendship was on the accelerated plan. lmao.

So the good bye sucked, it was sad and hard but I think this quote sums it all up...
" If there is a tomorrow we are not together there is something you must always remember... You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think... But the most important thing is even if we are apart, I will always be with you."

Hawaiian Bling....

2009-03-08T19:41:00.001-07:00

Bobi and I got some Hawaiian Plumeria flowers to remember our time in hawaii... It hurt like heck and I have had one done before. Im thinking the all bone part might be what contributed to it.... Anyways there are a few shots of them below.

Catch up...

2009-03-06T21:19:00.000-08:00

Life has been a little chaotic around these parts. The Skips are on their way out and staying with us for a few days until than... We're getting sad thinking of the Good bye we will have to say shortly but trying to think of what the future will hold for our families... You'd think after all the good byes we have shared we would get better at saying them.

My actual Bday was on Monday and a good day. The big 25 was not as bad as I thought it would be. I feel accomplished for where I am but honestly I feel like time is getting away from me... Yesterday I was 22 with a new baby and today I'm 25 with a 3 1/2 yr old and 1 1/2 yr old... Even though time cannot slow down, I hope I learn to stop and absorb the moments...

Everything else is good. Boys are good. Liem's 18month well baby was this week and he is weighing in at 22pds 11oz and 32 inches long. Seems like he finally put on some weight! I weighed and measured Luke for giggles... He is 45pds and 42 1/2inches. What a big boy...

Hope everyone else is good... We will have some pictures soon!!

Happy Birthday Mommy...

2009-03-01T21:43:00.001-08:00

The boys and J made me two different cakes and it was a nice weekend... Altho technically not my Birthday yet... We'll discuss the big 25 tomorrow on the actual day...

I already got my gift from J... An Ipod and I like it alot. Can't believe it took me so long to get involved in this technology but it works great. Luke love to watch movies on it. I wanted pink but went for more practical blue and I like it. We are heading out to dinner tomorrow and Ill post a bday blog then...

Sugar the Bunny...

2009-03-01T21:37:00.000-08:00

We got to watch Luke's bunny rabbit from school this weekend. Her name is Sugar and although I was scared of her at first she is a sweetie... Here are some shots of her and the boys.

Starting with #2

2009-02-27T10:10:00.001-08:00

It doesnt seem that long ago that I started potty training Luke and here we are starting with Liem. He has only gone once and doesnt grasp the concept, but I like to introduce them and have them get a feel for it months before I hit potty training hard core... I figure we have time to kill why not... So here we go with the fun... I finally got one peeing in the toliet and not around it and here we go with this one...

Don't mind the chanting he likes it...

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Zoo

2009-02-25T09:19:00.000-08:00

We took the boys to the zoo this past weekend and had a lot of fun. Luke has been in a great exploring age for awhile but this was the first visit to the Zoo that he sorta got everything. It was nice for him to see and be active in the visit. Liem could have cared less about the animals. He just liked the park and the children's part of the zoo.

The zoo was fun and seems to never get old. We still have the children's museum and glass bottom boat tour on our list of to do's.

Cutting the habit...

2009-02-20T10:08:00.000-08:00

Well I've finally put my foot down and denied Liem the boob... It was not that I wanted to nurse my child this long, but in the long run I am glad we made it farther... He was not ready 6 months ago, and although he is not entirely ready now because I am doing it, he is more ready.

I sorta just decided to try last night before bed. I put a bandaid on like the Dr suggested so he could try but realize "hey these things don't work". Backfired a little when Luke wanted to know why Liem bit me, and if I was bleeding...

After a pretty sad tantrum he drank milk from a straw and then went to be in his crib alone...

He made it until 4:45am, which I knew would be our downfall. He is impossible in the middle of the night, and I am usually to tired to fight. After about a half hour of craziness I opted to put him back in his crib, with his blankie that we are trying to substitue, and he cried for about 10mins before passing out until 8am. Downside he woke Luke at 5:30am, but we made it one night...

At most it should take a solid week... I hope I am strong enough to be consistant once and for all!!!

Liem's latest antics

2009-02-17T14:26:00.001-08:00

Photo Sharing - Video Sharing - Photo Printing

Little Update and Scary messes...

2009-02-17T10:11:00.000-08:00

Not a ton going on this way. We had a lazy weekend after our busy week. The boys got a lot of park play and Mommy and Daddy time. I have some pictures but have not updated them yet...

Liem is almost a year and 1/2 and seems to have reached a great learning point. He signs more, kiss, eat, and all done regularly but we are working on outside, dance, jump, friend, and play. He isn't talking a lot but definitely tries a few words. Lola is his favorite, Mom, Dad, he calls Luke Bro, Ball, and he attempts this, that, and kiss. Occasionally he will show you where his eyes, ears, tongue, toes, and hair are... He only does this when he is not distracted. lol... He is definitely getting bigger and it makes me sad but he is still a HUGE Momma's boy.

We always thought Liem was our calm natured easy going child... To my horror Liem has been getting into scary messes lately. Last week he dumped my juice everywhere while I was giving him a sip, he throws things into the toilet, and on Saturday when I put him down for his nap he decided to take his diaper off and explore with the findings.... I won't go into details because it is gross but it was not as bad as it could have been...

Luke on the other hand is at the age where he says inappropriate things without realizing it... He calls people guinea pigs when he does not like them. J and I are the primary guinea pigs. lol. At the grocery store last week he saw a 6yr old boy or so, and exclaimed "I don't like you, you guinea pig". Normally I would have tried to ignore this but the Mom heard him... So I apologized and said he is in a weird stage...

Yesterday we headed to Windward for some indoor fun and browsing... In Sears there was a heavier Woman and Luke said, "Look Mommy that MAN ate all his dinner and got bigger" Talk about embarrassing. We hurried him into another isle and distracted him with something or another... I am just waiting for the next moment we have to hush him.

I hope everyone else is good, I will post some pics soon. Luke is off to school in a few and I have laundry and a house to clean!!!

Our Trip Recap!!

2009-02-13T22:37:00.001-08:00

Just a few pictures from our trip. All 200 something pics are on the dropshots page. We had a lot of fun and did what the kiddos were willing to participate for. We did two scenic drives one on Chain of Craters Rd and the other around sights in Punaho. The boys napped through most of those and we got to see what we wanted. We did Ken's pancake house, Big Island Candies, Rainbow Falls, boiling pots, we drove past the botanical gardens, and a few odds and ends. We enjoyed the trip and are glad we took it. There was some Volcano action but we did not get all that close to it.

KMC was beautiful and SO cheap. Totally recommend it to anyone. We had the shittiest rental car in the world. No power locks, sounded like the wheel could fall at any moment, and somehow had a built in fridge in the glove box... Go figure... So note to anyone steer clear of Dodge Calibers, or at least make sure they are completed and not taken to early from the factory.

It has been a little chaotic since we got back with catching up the house, and laundry. I am also busy with school only a few weeks left in this Algebra class and it is not getting easier.

J has another long weekend this weekend so we will see if we cannot manage something productive to blog about...

Have a good Valentines day everyone!

Off to the Big Island...

2009-02-06T22:15:00.000-08:00

In the morning we are flying over to the big island for a few days... Im excited but SCARED.... I HATE flying, HATE it... I do not know when or where this phobia started but as I have avoided flights it has become worse...

I know it is only a 40minute plane ride and that is ok. However I used to only be scared of flying over the water, now I am nervous about take off's and landings... I know we will be ok and I am thinking positive thoughts but some extra prayers would be appreciated...

We have not really planned a detailed itenarary while we are there... We have some must see's and do's but since we have two little ones attending the trip we will play it by ear. We are staying at the KMC at the Volcanoe natl park. and we plan on doing a lot on the Hilo side. It will be nice to dress in our winter gear and enjoy some cold for a few days.

Luke keeps talking about the Volcanoes we will see and it makes me smile that with all the sacrafices we have made for a military life they can give us an oppurtunity to show our children, (and ourselves for that matter) a place as wonderful as Hawaii...

So anywho I will be MIA for a few days... And please say a lil prayer for my crazy irrational thoughts! :)

PS I know Lauri understands how I feel, and Angela is laughing at me! :)

Bye Bye Student loan...

2009-02-05T21:43:00.000-08:00

Both J and I have student loans. We paid mine off today with our income tax return. I made sure I paid it as soon as we saw the money because otherwise I would have been tempted to spend it on something way more fun!

It feels good to pay off debt but at the same time I think about how pretty the money would look in savings. I am glad it is gone and I have an associates (almost)to show for it. Hopefully in the next few years J will have his bachelors to show for his student loan.

So here's to being smart with money after our somewhat impulse (sorta researched) buy last week! :)

Speaking of the Car, Luke has decided to name her Carly the car... Bobi wanted to name her Dora, as in Dora the Explorer... but Luke was not having it. So we have Carly...

Mommy your a Genius!!

2009-02-05T10:18:00.000-08:00

We had to get new bedding due to a large hole in our sheets.... I was putting it off until we pcs'd BUT had to give in since I kept getting my fingers caught in the hole...

I was eyeing a set from Macys for months!!! I love it but did not want to spend that much... Yesterday Macys was running a sale for donating to RED. So I went with it and got it. I have to say it was a great DEAL!!!
(BTW Amy I know your eyeing some bedding from there! They are having a great sale on everything and it was cheaper than online! lol.)
http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=277297&CategoryID=28892 (The set we got)

So after getting it all set up Luke comes to see and he says "Mommy you are a Genius" followed by "Like Patrick told Spongebob..." Haha It wasnt anything extroadaniry but it makes me laugh the way he incorporates words into his sentences!!!

BTW we had our first cuss word last week... He "said" Bobi said a bad word, but he misheard her. When we asked him what she "said" he looked scared to say the word but said "B*tch" I knew it would happen one day but luckily he realizes it is a bad word and he should not say it!

Happy Sunday....

2009-02-01T12:41:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Sunday... Enjoy your day and be thankful!

Algebra...

2009-01-31T23:09:00.000-08:00

I am in my final class before I complete my associate degree... This class just happens to be Algebra... I took Algebra in high school and college (the first go round), but my goodness it has been a long time and this stuff is HARD...

Not to mention we are on what seems like a speed pace. We hardly have time to learn one set of skills until we are doing 5 more.

Seems sort of silly to me that I am majoring in psychology but I have to know how to graph number equations, solve inequalities, and find the slope of a line. I just do not see the point....

Sorta random... but my brain hurts and I needed to vent.

Remembering...

2009-01-29T15:53:00.000-08:00

Two years ago I received a phone call that would forever change my life. On January 29,2007 my Mom passed away. I had AMAZING friends by my side who although may not have understood, they stood by me when I needed it (as they always have/do). I remember the day like it was yesterday.

Death is never easy and it is even more difficult when it is someone you rely on. It is weird but looking back I think I felt more at peace with her death right after the fact then I do now. It seems to me that as days pass and opportunities are missed with that loved one that we miss them more. Losing both my parents by the age of 23 is/was hard, but I have two more people in Heaven watching over us and protecting us.

I know that my Mom loved me probably more than I could ever realize, I know my Mom had her faults and even contributed to her own death, but now that I am a Mother I know that it does not matter to our children what we do or who we are, to them we are always their heroes and role models. My Mom was FAR from normal, and not always a great person but she was my Mom and my superhero, and I will always remember her that way.

It is hard to believe that it has been two years, it is hard to believe that I still reach for her phone, and that I half expect her to be in Ohio when I come home. But time has passed, and she is gone. On days like these, the anniversary of her death, her birthday, my birthday, etc. I just like remembering her.

Today is sad and happy in the same. Luke melted my heart this AM when he came to me and gave me a big hug and kiss and when I asked him what that was for he said "It was from Grandma in Heaven" :)
Rest In Peace Mom... October 11, 1954- January 29, 2007.

Stimulating the Economy

2009-01-29T00:07:00.000-08:00

Well we splurged WAY more than we needed to but.... We are excited and happy the announce our newest addition...

Haha not many words are needed. We finally have three rows and a first BRAND new car for both J and I. We will be spending MANY years in this new addition. Altho I have to admit I am a little concerned about keeping the black clean, but we will survive and The Skips said they'd give me some tips! ;)

Thank You Marine Corps...

2009-01-27T09:55:00.001-08:00

We went to church the other day for the first time in a long time. I love Church and always feel a sense of clarity after listening to the priest and the sermon. This sermon discussed living in the moment, how by nature we dwell on our past and plan for our future, the sad part is because of this we often loose sight of the present. I thought the sermon hit home, and reminded me to make the most of each day.

Well who would have thought the next day when we went to try and get everything situated for our pack out and move that everything we have planned, and were counting on would be completely taken away from us. We were informed by one department that their was no issue putting our HHG in storage and shipping our car. Just to find out from another dept that their is no possible way... Best part is the funding has already been approved so we cannot even opt to ship our own car or apply for a ERD. We are stuck.

Now I realize that we are fortunate, we live in a beautiful house minutes from the beach in Hawaii, but I also realize it has been two long years since we have been home (mostly my fault), hardly anyone has met Liem, and I was banking on a few months to spend with them and now it looks like it will only be weeks. (I still haven't broken the news to family yet I don't think I can get through the talk yet.)

However I will do what I always do when everything crumbles around me. I will be mad, cry a lot, get up and figure a way to make this ok. This is a perfect picture of what happens when you plan.... Life happens. I know in the end it will all work out.

So long...

2009-01-25T21:14:00.000-08:00

Well we have been searching new cameras but had not really decided what and if we were going to buy... This morning we were saddened to find that our beloved Kodak Easy share took it's last picture at the Dole Plantation yesterday. I am glad we finally upgraded but a little sad that the Kodak only lasted 2 years.

I'm hoping to get more life out of our new purchase... Unfortunately Momma did not have time to investigate the Camera purchase like I did our washer and dryer, but I played with a few and found this one to be the most suiting...
We ended up with the one below, but I choose Brown. Something different.

Dole Plantation

2009-01-24T21:36:00.000-08:00

We opted for some sightseeing today. We have been to the Dole Plantation but it never gets old, not to mention J had never ridden the train with Luke. Figured a easy day with the boys, and after I could finally eat at Cholo's!!!

The boys posing as pineapples.

The only family picture we got besides the 15$ one they took of us. Ill have to scan that one later because it turned out cute!

J and the boys.

Liem and I.

Afterwards we shared some dole whip... FYI heard through the grape vine that they use a powder and not real pineapples. Interesting info if it is true. Here I thought it was healthy... So after our impostor ice cream we headed to North Shore. The boys were pretty wiped at this point so we rushed through lunch... Cholo's was delish, altho it has been AWHILE since I have had real Mexican. Still it was worth the drive and the money.

After we stuffed ourselves we headed home Exhausted!!!

Nothing Exciting...

2009-01-22T15:13:00.000-08:00

We have not been up to much. Trying to get some family time in and enjoy one anothers company.

J has been great with the boys and they both seem to love all the extra attention. We shopped most of the weekend away since J needed some new stuff. This weekend we are going to try and doing something a little more fun for the kiddos.

We are also planning our trip to the big island in a few weeks. Any recommendations??? We are only going for a few days but I didn't want to leave Hawaii without seeing at least one other island...

Anyone who knows me knows I DREAD flying... I'm starting to get nervous about the flight. I know it is like 5seconds long but it still scares me. I think I am more worried about the 6hr flight we have to take in two months. I just need some positive thinking, or some strong DRUGS... I will not miss flying looming in the future.

Ill try to get some exciting pictures to post since this post is blah.

Daddy is HOME

2009-01-16T11:36:00.001-08:00

J got home early Wens AM. It is nice to finally put another deployment behind us and grow together as a family. It is nice to have help to and to finally feel like I am being a GREAT Mother. When J is gone I feel like I do what needs to be done to get me through, I am more or less keeping my head above water... With him home I feel complete, I feel like we are in this together and that we support one another. It is nice to watch us as a family of four playing, laughing, and enjoying one another. In this moment I can say my life is content, full, and perfect... If only for a moment or day, I will take it.

The boys and I waiting for J to get off the plane.

All of us lost in the moment.

Family photo... Luke is excited beyond words... He missed his Daddy so much. Liem will need some time to warm up but will in time.

My lil Fashionist

2009-01-13T23:41:00.000-08:00

Luke is rough and tough and 100% boy, lately he has been a lil fashion man. The other day he insisted on combing his hair... Even better he did it in his Monday undies... I have to admit I am glad he is showing some interest in fixing his hair.

In this picture Luke decided to put a belt over his shirt, with his gray undies(at least he is finally wearing undies).

And one of Liem man because he is so stinking adorable... My lil cuddle bug who LOVES the slide. Up it or down it, HE LOVES IT....

The EVIL flu

2009-01-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

Talk about ironic... J is due home in a matter of days and I get hit with the all loving wrath (as Genny would call it)... Evil pure and uter EVIL!!!
Thank God Bobi was near and helped me otherwise I might not have made it through the day... Between Liem shutting the toilet lid on my head, and Luke getting himself dressed because as he would say "Momma you gottah goto the opital?" (hospital).

I felt as though I could die throughout much of the day. J textd me a few times and I told him I would rather be giving birth. I knew I should have gotten the damn flu shot when I had the chance... So if you have not gotten it indulge yourself... :)

FYI This was not a side affect of wine night! ;)

PS Soon a certain someone will be HOME!!!

Wine Night

2009-01-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

"Barefoot wine was created by two bohemian Californians with the philosophy that wine should not be too serious, it just has to taste great! Their vision was clear - get Barefoot and have a great time!

Our passionate team of Barefooters spread the word about our wines. You might see them on the streets of Manchester in their quest to make Barefoot available to as many people as possible, so give them a wave!" RRG, Barefoot.

There is nothing better then wine with just the girls... I have had many wine nights throughout the endless deployments and as our time winds down I find sad to see them go. With children involved it is not often we let loose with the good ole' barefoot or Franzia, but when it happens we always laugh...

Makes me sad to think about the next time I will share a cheap bottle of wine with my dearest friends. The beginning it was Angela and Riva, maybe a bottle or two with Genny at some point (altho we usually stuck to beer), I believe one here or there with L squared, I have had MANY bottles with Bobi, and my sister and I usually share a bottle over the phone.

It is during those few hours of girl only time we have a minute to let down our gaurd, overthink, and overreact on our lives... We always laugh the next morning remembering what we talked about and who we called... So thanks girls for the bottles, and memories shared!!!

P.S. To clarify the wine sharing is over three years... :) Didn't want to sound like an Alchi!!!

Haircut, Haircut

2009-01-07T21:07:00.001-08:00

I took Luke for a haircut on Sunday (A little slow at uploading) to get a haircut...

This is the before shot... I was trying to leave it long but decided to try it shorter again. His hair is SO thick and makes his head HOT and SWEATY. Hard to believe this is the same kid who had hardly any hair until he was 2.

This is the best after shot I could get... Makes him look more like his Daddy, Altho it cannot be denied that I am his Momma.

On a side note Liem had his blood work done today and we are hoping to hear the results and the next step in a week or two... Prayers appreciated for lil man.

Falling into place...

2009-01-06T15:31:00.000-08:00

J's orders were FINALLY modified to the correct date... I'm still a little nervous but hoping this time it all works out. Originally we had plans for J to leave for school in January, BUT he got sent off on this mini deployment, totally screwed our plans... However the best part is that NO ONE fixed J's orders so he was still expected in Cali next week while being thousands of miles away...

Luckily we got the orders switched and modified and I finally received a copy stating he has an APRIL date!!! I am so excited to finally have a goal to focus on, although the reality of leaving Hawaii is sad. When we leave this island there is a fairly good chance we will never return. Sad to think I will not have the endless choice of beaches, parks, pools, etc within walking distance. Sad to think we will be heading back to a world that is not always on vacation, and sad that we are leaving our first family home, a place where Luke learned to talk, walk, ride a bike, where Liem was born and reached every milestone. The memories are in our hearts but makes me a little sentimental to find that we have almost reached the end here in Hawaii...

Such is military and such is our story. I will spend the next few months taking Hawaii in and planning for our next chapter...

Luke's Photo Skills

2009-01-04T20:55:00.000-08:00

Luke got the kid tough digital camera for Christmas from The Skippers. He absolutely loves this camera and takes pictures of everything and anything, but mostly of himself. LOL. I was scrolling through his pictures and thought they were blog worthy.

We went for a morning run this AM to the Super park. Luke snapped a photo of the trees and a sliver of his sippy... We'll call this one "Random"

Yesterday Terron took Luke fishing for some guy time. Luke had a blast and captured a shot of his catch... We'll call this one "Yucky fish"

Here are some of Luke's many self portraits... Guess he figures he is an interesting subject, that or he is used to the camera in his face...
We will call this one "Model face"

"Sassy Teeth"

"Bedroom Eyes and Mommy's butt"

"Mommy's close up"

"Bobi's close up"

"Terr bears DUI mugshot"

"Baby brother"

I am sure Luke will take many more pictures of randomness. I do not plan on developing these photos (YET), but I have to admit he tends to catch us in the moment.

2009

2009-01-02T22:12:00.000-08:00

A few days into the New Year and I wonder what this year will hold. It seems odd that at the beginning of every year people make resolutions and reflect on the past year. It seems to be something I constantly do. Well the reflecting part more than the resolutions. lol. It seems that every January people feel like they have a clean slate and are ready for the new challenges and adventures.We already know some adventures and challenges we will face year.

In a few months the plan (as of now) is for J to travel to SOI West and undergo instructor training course, upon completion we will be stationed at Camp Pendelton. I will return to Ohio while he is in school to spend a few months with our family. I am excited for the chance to be close to home since it has been almost two years since we have been home. Wow two years, I cannot believe it has been that long, it seems to pass so quickly and it is hard for me to think we have not seen some of our family in almost two years. J will meet us after he finishes school for a few more weeks in Ohio and we will travel back to California to begin the next chapter.

California was not our original choice, but again a curve ball that we will accept and make the best of. 2009 will not be all laughs as we will leave Hawaii which has been our home for three years, we will also be moving away from our closest friends, The Skippers. We have moved from friends before but it will be different moving away from them, more so because our family and theirs is more like a large complicated blended family. We often get odd stares in public... lol. We will make the best of it and plan on many travels back and forth to see one another.

I am sure each day, week, and month will present something new. As of now I can only look forward to the next few weeks and that is the arrival of my hubby back home, a small family trip to the big island, and preparing for our move of this gorgeous rock!!

Happy 2009 from the boys and I. (Since J was not here for the picture!)

2008 A Year in Reveiw

2008-12-31T09:56:00.000-08:00

January 2008-
This month was a slow one winding down the end of our second deployment. I was still pretty busy with Luke and Liem still a infant. I know we were ready for J to come home and start a life together. By the time January hit, the beginning of 2008, we were ready to be a family.

Febuary 2008-
At the end of this month J arrived home from Iraq and finally got to see Luke healthy and thriving as well as meeting a changed Liem. (Remember J flew home right after Liem's birth because Luke was in the NICU).
This homecoming was special although both were amazing. It was nice to know we were finally in this together.

March 2008-
I turned 24... Where does the time go. I remember being nervous about turning 25, I know big whoop, but it made me quiestion what I have accomplished to this point. I feel proud of not only where I am but where our family is. We also got acquainted to a family of four, enjoyed family time, celebrated Easter, and took a mini vacay to the Hale Koa.

April 2008-
We baptised Liem this month. J's mom and step dad, as well as his brother flew out for it. We had a lots of good friends here with us to help celebrate his entrance into the catholic church.

May 2008-
In May we enjoyed as much family time as possible since once again J was sent off to Thailand for 5 weeks. I remember thinking 5 weeks was a long time back then but compared to this it is nothing. And this little 3-4 month stint is nothing to the 7 months we are used to. It is amazing how much we are caplable of when we have to be.

June 2008- June was a slow month with nothing out of the ordinary. J returned home a week after Father's day and we celebrated late. In the three years since Luke has been born J has missed every single Father's day... And I can almost say with certainty that he will miss this one as well. Lucky for him when he is home everyday is Father's Day. :)

July 2008- We had a 4th of July BBQ and enjoyed time as a family. Liem offically started walking this month and J started the tideous journey of re-enlisting.

August 2008- Not to much happened in this month either. The boys kept us busy and with Liem on the move even more so.

Septemeber 2008- Birthday, Birthday, Anniversary... Ironically September seems to be our month. Liem turned 1 on the 1st of September which happened to fall on Labor day. Luke turned 3 on the tenth. The first few weeks of September flew by. Birthdays are always so emotional for me, to see how they have changed and grown. Makes me a tad sentimental. Not to mention these birthdays were the first J was here to experience. Finally a birthday and party with a hubby there. We had a big party here at our house with our clostest friends, who honestly we consisder family. The 21st we celebrated our 3rd wedding anniversary... Haha do the math, Luke is 3 and we have been married 3 years... It was nice and laid back. For the occasion J got me diamond earrings and I got him a big ole' tool box. J also signed for four more years. We debated getting out but knew four more years would set us up for a smooth transition.

>October 2008- Bye Bye Daddy... J left again this time to the Phillapines. This was a last minute deployment and totally interferred with the holidays as well as our plans to leave for California in the spring... When these last minute obstacles suddenly appear I try to stay as positive as possible... Just Gods plans and in the end it will all work out... As we finally near the end of this mini deployment I find that it worked out exactly the way it should have...
The boys also celebrated Halloween this month. Our Superheros Superman and Captain America.

November 2008- Winding down the year. Not much to do this month and I remember it dragging by. Thanksgiving was spent with friends and a mini orderal but nice.

December 2008- This was a fun month with Luke's excitement for Santa. It feels like December has flown by as well as the holidays. I always get a little sad after Christmas is over, not because of the presents but because I love the Christmas season and the hope it provides. Lucky for us we get another mini Christmas in a few weeks with J.

As another year winds down I am optimistic about what next year will bring. Everyone have a safe and happy New Year's.

Outside time

2008-12-29T22:53:00.000-08:00

Luke loves the park and I try to get them there when I can to burn of some steam. Luke is so into playing with other kids or knowing exactly what is going on. Today some little girl punched a little boy in the stomach and when the boy went to tell the girls mother 10 other kids gathered around to tell on her as well. Luke did not pay any attention and all of a sudden said he needed to see what was going on over there. LOL. Kids. Luke apparently has to be in the no.

I have to share Luke's funny moment today. He has a thing for hats. Wanted to wear one out and I said ok. After I packed the bags I looked at him and said "Luke I like your hat" he looked at me and said "Ya isn't it cool". I had to laugh out loud.

Liem LOVES the slide. He amazed me today at going down the slide by himself either sitting or on his belly, and afterwards he got off and walked around to go the stairs and climber his way back to the slide. Luke would have climbed up the slide. I think Liem spend a good 25minutes on the slide.

Small Things

2008-12-27T20:56:00.000-08:00

I would write about our night in the dark but I think no words are needed to discuss 12 hours without power. I will say thank you once again to Jammie and Amy who checked on me. It amazes me that my own neighbors did not take the time to make sure I was ok... It's alright I will just make sure my drill is broken next time they need it...

Today and yesterday both Luke and Liem surprised me with a new milestone, if you want to call it that.

Luke LOVES swinging but pushing ihm and chasing Liem gets old fast. He pumped his legs yesterday and kept himself going. This is not anything huge but seriously every single day he takes on step further away from being my lil guy and becoming a big boy!!! I can hardly carry him anymore! :( Where does the time go.

Lil Liem man has ALWAYS loves "The itsy bitsy spider" Always makes him laugh, dance, and clap. Today we were singing it in the car and I look back to Liem doing the motions I always do (they were not as good) but still shocked me that he can almost mimic the song.

Honestly time passes so fast. I am just glad I can finally put some of this down somewhere so that I can look back and remember.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T21:15:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas... I am exhausted after Luke's 4:48am wake up call but I want to make sure I write about our day while it is still clear in my mind. First and foremost I am so glad they are SO close in age. Amy said it best when she said they can share all the toys, and they truly do. It is like double Christmas for both of them and I love that.

Our tree before the boys tore into the presents. We had a ton more under there but I had to hide some for when J gets home and we can do a miniature Christmas with him. Only a few more weeks, although days like these make it feel so much longer. J did call at 6am and was on the phone for much of the chaos.

The present of the Day. Luke has been ASKING for this for a few months and we wanted to wait until we moved to California before making another large purchase. In the end I am a sucker and it was bought... I got a good deal though!!! Not to mention when Luke was walking down the stairs and spotted it he shouted "My jeep car, I GOT IT!" and threw his blankie to the side... His smile in this picture says it all!!

Anyone remember Luke's Christmas at this age? He carried a waffle around the entire time. I had to laugh when Liem spotted the waffles and carried them around for the duration of presents.

This car is the neatest thing ever, especially for in the house. It is soft and when it hits a wall it bounces back. This is courtesy of Nana Rita and Luke loves it, although he LOVED everything he and Liem got.

Liem was not into opening the presents but into playing with whatever toy Luke had just stopped looking at. I swear Luke would open a present and play with it for a little bit before moving onto the next one but as SOON as he set it down Liem was playing with it. Although the few toys Liem did open Luke would take as soon as he unwrapped them.

Luke and his leapster. Luke loved everything but he made a VERY big spectacle about this toy as well. He said "Mommy please can I open this? I used my manners, I be a good boy, Pretty please." I let him open it and I think the leapster is going to be awesome once he figures it all out.

I love this picture of them! I realize that we may not always be able to give them everything they want or need, but all that matters is we gave them one another.

Overall we had a great Christmas. Presents and playing and dinner with good friends who were kind enough to take us in! Thanks again! ;) Now I am going to relax and call it a night.
Merry Christmas to everyone!!! Looking forward to the New Year!

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T23:45:00.000-08:00

We had a busy day!
Today consisted of the beach, baths, baking cookies, pinky's for dinner, decorating cookies, opening Christmas jammies, reading Twas the Night before, and BEDTIME. Luke is over the moon about Santa coming and was exhausted for bedtime. I do not see how parents cannot cherish these moments. I am going to take a moment to reflect on our day...

Liem was nervous about the sand at first. Sorta good for me as he did not stray off until the very end. I have beach photos below but wanted to post a snapshot of just him and his usual smile! He melts my heart!!

Here is Luke right before bedtime and a meltdown. These are the moments I cherish. To often I have to discipline and teach him and in this instance it is fun to just watch him being silly, and laugh right along with him... I swear when they laugh this hard at something, you cannot help but laugh with them...

My kids are SO fortunate, they have been surrounded by the pacific their entire lives, with the exception of Luke's first 3months. They both love the water. Luke is close to swimming and tests his boundaries. Today at the beach I found myself thinking "Luke is the perfect age for the beach", he loved every second and listened to every word. Minus the end, when he was showering off and ran across the wet surface and fell to the ground on his booty, as he calls it, which lead to a massive strawberry. LOL.

Liem kept poaching the water slowly by himself. When I had him he was practicing his swimming skills. (He thinks he is the next Michael Phelps). I love this picture although it truly makes me sad to leave Hawaii. Look at the background, and where else can you go in the dead of winter for amazing beach time... I think I have taken a lot for granted.

i asked someone... lol. To take our picture. Love Luke in this one, well I love Liem in this one as well. Thanks boys for cooperating so Mommy could have some sort of documentation!!! lol...

Here we are at Pinkys. I saw we because Luke was the photographer. I do not think I had the nerve nor the emotions left to ask someone there to snap a shot of the three of us... I contemplated making dinner here, but Luke and Liem eat nothing I would want for Christmas Eve, I also wanted to make this day special for them. What I did not anticipate was walking into a restaurant with 15 I am so sorry smiles. Maybe I am overreacting but I swear everyone that looked at me made me feel like crying.

I am happy to have the boys, and I am happy to have a special Christmas with just us. They do not know the difference, but being without J again KILLS me. It would not matter if I had 100 people, or 10 people around me, if none of them were J I would still be sad, I hate to say it but it is almost better that it is just us because this way I am not jealous that everyone else is together and we are missing J (sad but honest). I love the MC and the lifestyle it provides, but honestly I want to STOP experiencing everything halfway... I know a lot of people out there have it worse than me, but many have it a ton better and make it look worse than I do. I am just asking (as a Christmas wish so to say) that my hubby is here next Christmas, and at our next child's birth (as we are 0 for 2). Let's move on to a lighter note... LOL

The boys in there Christmas Jammies that Nana Rita sent them. Luke did not care what was under the paper, he just wanted to open one.

VERY lastly, I know I have RAMBLED on and ON, remember though I do not have much adult interaction. This is a Christmas tradition. Since Luke's FIRST Christmas we have taken a picture of him and now them sleeping with 'Twas the Night before Christmas on their chests. I was nervous about Liem's since he is our superstar sleeper, but he slept RIGHT through the flash. I do have to say I cannot see all that much resemblance when they are awake, but when they sleep I see it!

Merry Christmas to everyone, and I truly hope this next year brings nothing but happiness for you ALL!!!

Randomness

2008-12-23T20:46:00.000-08:00

So everyone is clear this post will be rather random. First Liem has found a way to climb into our bathroom sink. He has also accomplished climbing into our living room window... I do not recall Luke being this big of a crawler...

On a side note Liem's newest trick is patting his leg while saying "Lola", as if he were calling her. It amazes me at this age how fast they pick things up and they do not stop until... Well Im not sure Luke is three and still absorbing everything.

I put the elf on the wall with candy and Luke was amazed and amused at him. He laughed and this morning was the first morning he came running downstairs and immediately looked for "Blankie". I am trying to explain to him that tommorrow night Blankie will leave us until next year.

This is where Luke taught his baby brother how to climb into the window, and when he could not quite get it Luke got him and jumped off the chair. I find boys so fascinating. I mean they will use ANYTHING as a tool or weapon. LOL. I am so DOOMED.

And here is a shot of Luke at chuckie cheeses. He loves this swing thing but normally I do not allow him in it because it is for babies. After seeing an 8 years old and a big 10 year old take a turn I figured Luke would not hurt it.

Tommorrow is Christmas Eve and I will post a blog tommorrow night but as of now the plans in the possibility of the beach and going out to dinner with the boys. Hopefully the weather holds up because this will be the last year we can tell family hahaha we're at the beach and you aren't! :)

Liem's Dr Visit Results

2008-12-20T23:27:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately the Doctor confirmed the original diagnosis. However we are not sure how extensive it is because he cannot tell us. On his retinal tissue there is some scarring. This can cause gray vison when looking things center on, or the things can appear blurry. We will not know until Liem is old enough to tell us.

She said that normally this scaring is caused early on in gestation and caused by an infection such as toxoplasmosis or cytomegalovirus (sp). Toxoplasmosis can be caused from cats or raw meat. Neither that I was near or ate (as far as I know). She said the damage is done and from this point we need to see how much was affected. They are going to do a full blood work up and possible MRI.

I am not sure how to take all of this, I mean I have been through so much with Luke that I am calm when faced with possible issues and concerns. On the other hand I think looking at Liem appeases my mind he does not show any indication of trouble with that eye, nor does he show any other complication. He is right on track developmentally and ahead in many areas. Liem says 5 words and can sign 3. Not to mention the kid is the most laid back child/person I have EVER met.

I truly put this in God's hands and pray with all my being that this is nothing more than what it is. Parents never want their children to suffer or feel pain, and when I had Luke I think I would have done anything to keep pain and suffering from him. With time and experiecne I have realized that it is not possible to protect them from everything, but only be there when they experience it. This certainly is not our first medical issue, and I am sure it is not our last.

Santa Claus

2008-12-20T00:09:00.000-08:00

Luke and I have been planning this visit for weeks now. I originally was going to take them to the Santa they have seen for the entire time we have been in Hawaii, but he is a peeve, or so I have been told. So we opted for the Pearl Ridge Santa and I love that he is a little more laid back like Santa might be in his workshop.

Luke was over the moon for out date today, as we called it. Santa and than Chuckie Cheeses. Anyone who knows Luke knows he is outgoing if he knows you, but can be shy in new settings or around new people. He was excited to see Santa and kept asking me if he could sit in his lap and ask him for a JEEP CAR! (Don't worry Santa got it!)

While standing in line I could not help but get chocked up a bit at seeing his excitement. It just melts my heart that he is able to believe in something so magical and for all that it is. Today watching his eyes light up as he saw Santa melted my heart. I tend to hide my emotions so well in so many other aspects of my life, but when it comes to the boys and J I loose all control.

I sorta just threw Liem in Santa's lap because when Luke was his age it was a traumatic experience for all parties involved. Liem looked back at Santa and looked at me (thinking come on lady who the heck is this dude), and started saying "Momma ma ma". but he did not cry.

I love that today was 100% about the boys and what they wanted to do. Minus my final shopping excursion and impulse buy, lol. I just love that I am here although I am once again sad J misses it. I cannot imagine how it must feel to miss these pieces of their lives, but J does a good job at hiding it. I think I am sap enough for both of us. lol.

Ill post some pictures of Good ole' Chuckie tomorrow.

Before I was a Mom

2008-12-18T22:02:00.001-08:00

Before I was a Mom,
I never tripped over toys
or forgot words to a lullaby.

I didn't worry whether or not
my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind
and my thoughts.
I slept all night..

Before I was a Mom,
I never held down a screaming child
so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night
watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom,
I never held a sleeping baby just because
I didn't want to put him down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces
when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small
could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom,
I didn't know the feeling of
having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel
to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond
between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small
could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom,
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night
every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth,
the joy,
the love,
the heartache,
the wonderment
or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much,
before I was a Mom.

I without a doubt <3 these boys. They drive me crazy, and to near exhaustion but being their Mother is what I was put on Earth for.

Accomplished

2008-12-16T20:52:00.000-08:00

Tuesdays are CDC days and I always accomplish SO much with Luke out of the house. I cleaned the house from top to bottom as I do every Tuesday, purged on a TON of toys to make room for Christmas stuff, and ran errands. This blog is sorta random but I love at the end of the day when I look back and feel like I have done a TON. Moving onto Elf on the shelf. At first I thought he was a little to freaky, but J's Mom offered to buy the Elf and the book that goes along with him for us. (Thanks Amy for the idea). Now that we have him he is not to bad. Luke has decided to name him Blankie. LOL. I have not written it down as his official name because I am thinking he might change it next year to something a little more Elf sounding. However... Blankie has proven useful in changing Luke's behaviors a few times. Especially when he is being mean to his brother. Luke has found a way to turn it around though. Liem has been pretty good with the Christmas tree but every now and again will sneak and ornament off. A little while ago I heard Luke talking to blankie and saying "Blankie, Liem did something and he is not being good." I do not like threatening him but for as young as he is I think he is grasping the idea well. So welcome to the family Blankie. I wonder if he will work on husbands.

New members of our Family...

2008-12-15T20:10:00.001-08:00

My Sister-in-law gave birth to their twins today. They had been trying for awhile and I can think of no two people who are better deserving. Michael Anthony was born at 6:08pm EST weighing in at 7pounds and 5ounces, followed by his sister Elizabeth Riley at 6:12pm who weighed in at 5pounds 14ounces. I am sure they are gorgeous like their parents and we cannot WAIT to meet our new nephew and niece. Times like these make me miss home in a million different ways. Not only because we miss so much of our family's lives, but because they also have to miss so much of our life. I'm REALLY looking forward to 3-4long months in Ohio come April.

I had to pick up some jewelry that was being repaired at Pearl Ridge today and what was supposed to be a 10minute thing turned into a two hour excursion. I knew Luke would want to do the train ride so we waited our turn and Luke got on. They sat him in the Caboose because they had a school field trip. Luke felt super special in the Caboose.
The picture quality is less than stellar because I had to use my cell phone since I once again left my camera at home...

Liem man passed out in his car seat after our day. I have to admit both were very well behaved as we went from the mall, to Toys R Us, and lastly a madhouse NEX. On the plus side ALL Christmas shopping is done, and my homecoming outfit is BOUGHT!

That Santa was a Girl...

2008-12-14T21:15:00.001-08:00

There is only so much to do on this Island and being alone with two small children my options are slim... I try to make our trips eventful and when we drive to the other side of the island I cram errands in. Well the problem is I do not save little things to occupy the off days with. Today I knew we would stay close to home. I remembered that the Annex on base was having a Santa visit today so I decided to take Luke and Liem.

The Santa was less than steallar with a pretty crappy imitation. Luke is three so luckily he did not notice. Until... Luke informs me Santa was a GIRL. Santa was a girl I just did not think he knew. I tried to explain him that Santa is REALLY busy at this time of the year and Mrs Claus was trying to help Santa out. I hate lying to him but believeing at this age is a wonderful thing, and in a way shows their innocence. I just hate for that to be taken away SO early.

I quit believeing EARLY and now looking back I would give anything to have believed a little longer. I know the day he/they stop believeing will come sooner or later, but as of now I just want him to be small while he can.

Liem did not cry but he looks like he might loose his mind. He is not fond of anyone holding him while I am around, with the exception of Bobi, so I was not expecting much. Something about Liem's age and Santa makes Santa visits scary.

We will be seeing the REAL Santa this Friday.

Going, Going, Going

2008-12-13T20:46:00.000-08:00

“We're so busy watching out for what's just ahead of us that we don't take time to enjoy where we are.”
-Calvin & Hobbes quotes

Today started off with a Bang... Liem always plays with my cell phone and often calls people... Sorry to anyone... Today he magically dialed Military Emergency, I did not even know something existed. But I get a phone call from unknown that I missed. I thought "Dang it I missed J's call" but a few minutes later the phone rings again and it is Military Emergency asking if we needed assistance. The lady was REALLY nice and I apologized again and again... Needless to say I have been monitoring his cell phone activity today but I can almost guarantee I will hear from my friend at Military Emergency again on day.

We got our butts in gear early this morning because we had a ton to do today. The weather was looking up and luckily held up for us until this afternoon. First we had to drop in on some friends house that we are watching.

I did two house calls and I do not mind doing it, but I do want to kick myself in the butt for not braving the plane ride to visit home for the holidays. I know Christmas is going to be lonely, and not because I am alone, but because J will not be here to witness Luke and Liem on Christmas morning. Holidays are special and even more so when you have children. It just breaks my heart that J cannot be a part of some of these lifelong memories for them. I miss him like crazy, but I try very hard to remember that he is coming home to us, and that is all that really matters.

So after our house calls we headed to the eye Dr for the boys apt. Luke informs me on the drive that he does not like girls, only guys... I know we females are not nearly as cool as guys but it makes me giggle that he can comprehend the difference and show a preference already. I tried to explain to him that Mommy is a girl and he likes me, but needless to say he still does not like girls.

The eye Dr.'s was fun. Luke did really well and has finally overcome his fear of the medical profession. He was interested in all the tools and his eyes checked out perfect. (Dang me for forgetting the camera). Liem on the other hand has reached the age of protesting the medical profession and he did not like it at all. Mostly everything checked out except a scar on his right eye. She is referring Liem to a different Dr at Kapeolani but she said he could be partially blind in that eye. I am not sure what to think but do not want to get worked up until I know more. This specialist will run extensive tests to see how bad it is but I do not think much can be done if anything is wrong. So keep lil man in your thoughts.

After the eye Dr.'s we braved Wendy's where Liem finally ate a TON, he is also a dipper switching between ketchup and ranch. lol. Then we headed to the NEX. What was I thinking???? It was a train wreck. Luke and Liem both went in the cart so at least I was not stopping every five seconds to tell Luke to hurry up. I browsed and returned something but decided it was time to head home...

On our way home the Monsoon returned and I was a nervous wreck driving home. I swear every other mile I was hitting a small river on the Rd., but we made it home safe and sound. The boys are in bed now and it is only 7. I am going to finish some homework and give my sister a call. It is nice to finally relax.

I hope everyone had a good Saturday.

2008-12-12T22:48:00.000-08:00

Luke saw Santa at a CDC function today. The teacher told us the wrong time so we were late which annoyed me, but it happens. We ended up finding Santa in the classroom next to Luke's and went over so he could see him. Luke was SUPER excited and was even more excited that Santa had a special present for him. I got a quick shot of him and it is not great because we all know I am not great with my photo skills, it just matters to me that we have pictures.

Anyways Luke opened his present from "Santa" which was a copy of Goodnight Moon, the book. I thought books were a great idea for presents, and definatly useful in this house. After opening his book we went back to his classroom for a quick visit before we headed to the commy.

The commy is ALWAYS interesting and more so when I have Luke with me... It is not his fault that he is so CURIOUS, but goodness when Momma is trying to bargain shop it is annoying. This might be my fault because I think Luke is to the point where he can walk and observe everything, but we run into trouble when Luke wanders.... And yes he wanders often. He never goes far and about 95% of the time I know where he is, but it still drives me crazy that a sighting of fish, a coffee disply, or even a woman on motorized shopping cart can grab his attention and he suddenly does not hear me.

I love that he is curious, I love that he asks 10,000 quiestionsa day and I know he is only three but man oh man I hope "Stay by Mommy" or "Stand right here" stick one of these days...

Liem on the other hand is the calmest most content baby in the world. He was past a nap when we visited Lukes school and the commy, but I heard maybe two peeps out of him... It might be his brother who I am constantly chasing that entertains him so, but I am not sure I think I just got lucky with this little man. Liem was content to shake the motrin bottle (for my stress headaches), or to squeeze the sponges. I swear this child can find entertainment in anything.

His eating habits are still less than stellar and he prefers fruit and boob. I ALWAYS said you stop breastfeeding when you stop formula but Liem is teeny and hates milk so we have had to go further. Right now we are at 15months and couting. We only nurse in the morning and right before bedtime, so technically I do not have to tell anyone, lol. But I am hoping sooner rather than later I can get the kid off the boob. I know it is one of the best things for him but I think for me personally we have gone above and beyond our time with nursing. I commend those who can go years without stopping but it is not for me I am ready to have my boobies back and my body back. lol

Having two boys almost two years to the day apart is FUN and adventerous. Luke is constantly playing rough with Liem, trying to pick him up, stealing his food, sneaking him kisses, trying to cuddle him by sitting on him, and sharing his ever loving blankie with him. I am positive this is only the tip of the iceberg but relationships between brothers are a wonderful thing. Liem cracks up at Luke, and in turn Luke loves that he makes his brother laugh. I love them both SO much it hurts sometimes. I am so thankful for them and that I get to be their Mommy...

I am sure I will have some more fascinating details tommorrow since we are venturing out for shopping, the eye Dr, and wherever the Pac leads us...

J*K*L*L