The Willis Family

It's a BOY!!!

2012-01-21T18:08:00.000-08:00

1/19/12 We celebrated with friends and family at El Torito to announce the sex of our baby.

20 weeks

We're expecting!

2012-01-11T19:09:00.000-08:00

October 2011

8 week check up- November 2011

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2012-01-11T19:07:00.000-08:00

Top 10 Memories of 2011

10. Sprinkles Cupcakes opened in La Jolla! Lenore waited in line for 2 hours for a delicious cupcake!

9. Lenore’s job took her to New Orleans, Denver, Ohio, Houston and San Antonio, Texas

8. Spending time with family and friends

7. Tommy worked hard this year to make the transition to his work’s new building as smooth as possible

6. 4^th of July at the Bahia Resort Hotel

5. We celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary

4. Trips to Julian, Ca.

3. San Diego experienced a Blackout

2. The El Cajon Police Department’s new building was dedicated on Nov. 12

1. We’re expecting a bundle of joy in June 2012!

Love,

Tommy, Lenore, and Baby Willis

~ Merry Christmas! * Happy New Year! * May God Bless You in 2012! ~

2011

2011-08-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well, hello there! I've been MIA for awhile. Since I opened a Facebook account I've been updating my adventures there! I just wanted to let you know that I'm still alive (Praise God!) and that I will be updating soon. Steak and veggies for dinner :)

July

2010-07-25T18:09:00.000-07:00

mmm...ice cream!

4th of July at the Bahia (Mission Bay)

June

2010-07-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

trip to Anaheim to manage a children's program at the Anaheim Marriott

Bonzallpalooza

Minnesota (Mall of America, Como Zoo, Science Center, and Children's Museum)

Sea World
Reece Bell and O.P. Otter

May

2010-07-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

Took Francis to Sea World and went walking with some friends at Torrey Pines

April

2010-05-02T09:39:00.001-07:00

Easter Egg Hunt 2010

a little unsure about Mr. Bunny

he loved decorating eggs :)

Happy Easter!

March

2010-05-02T09:34:00.001-07:00

I worked an event in Long Beach

Francis helping grandma make chocolate mousse :)

February

2010-05-02T09:24:00.001-07:00

went to CA Adventure with Rachel and her girlsAt the end of February I went to Ohio.
I had a layover in Nashville...yipee!
Jeanna and I

birthday video

2010-01-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

Francis' birthday video

2010!!!

2010-01-12T16:16:00.000-08:00

celebrating Francis' 2nd birthday at Bob's Big Boy

spending time at the zoo on his birthday- Jan. 5

I'm 2!

Here are some adorable penguins that my friend made from olives, carrots, and cream cheese...yum! She brought them to the New Year's Eve party :)

Well, I started off the year with a stomach flu...ugh!

End of 2009

2009-12-14T21:21:00.000-08:00

October

Kristen took me to Hollywood, Bel Air, and Beverly Hills for my birthday :) I attended a work party for Padres. My brother and I took Francis to Sea World's Spooktacular!

November

I cooked my first Thanksgiving turkey :)

December

Took Francis to the zoo

singing

2009-09-19T16:18:00.000-07:00

"Baa Baa Black Sheep... A B C D E F G... Da Da! Da Da!" He knows the entire song of Baa Baa Black Sheep. He called Aunt Tee Tee on the phone and left her a voicemail singing that song. I am never going to delete it :) ~Francis 20 months old

FIRE!!!

2009-09-08T20:15:00.000-07:00

What a way to spend Labor Day weekend! On Sunday at 6am I woke up to this! I heard a car honking and then heard a popping sound. I woke up and thought what is that noise, so I got out of bed and looked out our bedroom window and this is what I saw...

Tommy called 911 and I grabbed my camera and took pictures. I think we were one of the last neighbors to actually get out of bed. (eventhough it was right in front of our neighbor's house) The fire dept. showed up and four police officers arrived. A policeman told us that it was a stolen vehicle. Why did they choose our neighborhood to abandon it and set it on fire?...who knows! Praise God no one was injured! :)

worship

2009-09-08T19:46:00.000-07:00

Yorba Linda, California

Leslie and I

the girls :) Heather, Me, Melinda, and Christin
(There are 10 kids between the 3 of them...praise the Lord!)

Here is a short video of the worship from Friday night.

Hollywood

2009-09-08T19:30:00.001-07:00

KiddieCorp sent me to Hollywood to work an event for a few days. It was an experience of a lifetime to say the least! :) I stayed at The Renaissance Hollywood Hotel. I managed the infant program (22 children under the age of 3...oh my!) Yes, I had 7 team members who helped me.

Thanks mom for letting me drive the Mini :)

This was the temperature outside on my drive to Hollywood!
Renaissance Hollywood Hotelour hotel roomHeidi and I at the mall outside our hotel

Family Reunion

2009-09-08T19:03:00.001-07:00

In August, we went to my family reunion. The Sanchez family is my mom's grandfather on her mom's side. Did you get that? So, my grandmother's father :)

My great grandmother had 15 children!!! (no multiple births)

my grandmother and a few of her grandchildren

my brother Sean, nephew Francis, sister Nicole, and me :)

my step dad, aunt, mom, and grandma

me!

my mom in Hawaii

my cousin Travis

graduation

2009-08-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

My cousin Tyler's high school graduation
(June 2009)

summer 09

2009-08-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

Here is a glimpse of what I've been up to since I got home from Ohio...

Bonsallpalooza at Pala Casino- a benefit concert to help fund music education programs in the Bonsall School District. (above) Andrea, Adam (Andrea's brother) and I. Andrea and I are having our first appletini :) (below) Clarisse, Andrea and I having fun at Pala Casino :)

trips to Sea World

PKD Walk site 2009- Coronado

celebrating Kristen's birthday at Miguel's in Point Lomacelebrating Kristen's birthday at Island's

spending time with my nephew Francis

summer- busy working at the Padres game...GO PADRES!!!

attending a Padres game for the first time this seasonJuly-a few trips to San Elijo to visit my friend Kendra and her beautiful family

Ohio

2009-07-17T05:48:00.000-07:00

Trip to Dayton, Ohio for one of my best friend's wedding! I had a lot of first experiences on this trip... first flight to Ohio, Matron of Honor, saw my first firefly, breakfast at Cracker Barrel, dessert at Ritter's frozen custard, drinks at Fricker's, (I've heard they have delicious chicken wings.) and more!!!

Jeanna (the bride) took Kristina (maid of honor) and I to breakfast at the Cracker Barrel one morning. I ordered eggs in a basket with a side of spiced apples. The food was delicious! When we were about to leave the entire SWAT team in Dayton walked in the restaurant and sat at the six tables that surrounded ours. Needless to say we felt a little uncomfortable and out of place. One man walked up to us and said, "you even look guilty!" (laughing). I guess they were there just to eat breakfast, but we got out of there as quickly as we could. :)

Matt and Jeanna,
We are so happy for you! Hope you're enjoying your honeymoon in Cabo San Lucas. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day. I had so much fun in Ohio meeting Matt's family, catching up with your family, and meeting new friends. You were a beautiful bride! You were so organized that everything fell into place, even if the limo driver was not in the best of moods :)

Kristina, Michael (Jeanna's cousin), and I eating Ritter's frozen custard

Alaska trip

2009-07-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

We made it home safely! Tommy and I had a great trip to the Kenai peninsula. We were blessed to stay with friends and family on our trip and visit many places. I have too many pics to post, so I posted my favorites.

We began our journey in Anchorage, Alaska. From there we went to Cooper Landing (~1.5 hours). We stayed with Phil and Brenda (Rachel and Ruth's parents) for 7 days. Tommy and his cousin went fishing 4 days in a row and caught many salmon. The girls drove to Seward to the Sea Life Center, Sterling to visit some friends, and around town sightseeing. I even felt the 5.3 earthquake!

Then Tommy's cousin Mary and her husband Jeremiah picked us up and drove us back to Anchorage for 2 days. We drove around town and they took us to their favorite places to eat- Bear Tooth and Arctic Roadrunner.

We met up with my friend Michelle in Anchorage, who I met in elementary school, and she drove us to Soldotna where her parents live (~ 3 hours away). We stayed with her mom for 4 days. In Soldotna we drove around town, checked out the city of Kenai, and drove ~1.5 hours south to Homer. Then Michelle drove us back to Anchorage where we met up with John and Rachel at the church she grew up in, Chapel by the Sea. We stayed at the church for the remaining of our trip. We had a couple BBQs and visited with friends.

Our last 2 days in Alaska were spent on a Glacier Cruise out of Whittier, Alaska and a hike to Rabbit Lake. Tommy and I were dropped off at the train station downtown in the morning and we took the train to Whittier (~2 hours by train). Then we got on a boat and visited a couple glaciers up close and personal along with an all you can eat salmon/prime rib buffet for lunch. The cruise was ~5 hours and then we got back on the train to Anchorage. We saw many wildlife on this trip. For example: dall sheep, eagles, bear, seals, seal lion, birds, and sea otters!

Our last day in Alaska Tommy's cousin John drove us to his favorite hike in Anchorage, Rabbit Lake. We arrived at 11:30am and were finished at 5pm. It was about a 2 hour hike there and back, but once you get to the lake you don't want to leave. :) It is so majestic. God's beauty and his creation is absolutley amazing!!! We ate lunch and hiked around the lake before we headed back.

We would like to thank everyone who allowed us to stay with them and drove us everywhere. You were very hospitable and we appreciate the time you took to show us your beautiful state.

Off to Alaska!!!

2009-06-14T23:15:00.001-07:00

Kenai Peninsula here we come!!!

17 months!

2009-06-14T12:32:00.001-07:00

For Father's Day my mom and I took Francis to get his picture taken. As you can see he loves sports!!! His favorite word is "ball." I love the top picture because it really shows his personality. He is truly a happy little toddler. His expression in the middle picture cracks me up! Look at the position of his right hand...adorable. He loved the stool; can you tell? That's why it is also in the last picture. We removed it, but he wanted it near him.

planes, trains, and automobiles!

2009-06-08T16:13:00.001-07:00

Francis having fun with Grandma and Aunt Tee Tee

random fun

2009-06-08T16:04:00.001-07:00

1st Slurpee

new toys

I love my grandma!

30 years!!!

2009-05-30T23:12:00.000-07:00

Finally, something new to blog about. We went to La Jolla Shores to celebrate Kendra's 30th birthday. Although it was really windy and cold, we had a really good time. We kept warm by the cozy fire. The food was delicious, company was great, and the beach was beautiful. I think the kids outnumbered the adults :)

... just the girls

My 3rd grade student and Sea World buddy Tiffany :)

sea world

2009-04-27T17:29:00.000-07:00

Today Francis and I met my friend Jodi and her son Ethan at Sea World. Francis has been to Sea World before, but this was the first time he was able to recognize some of the animals and use his words/sign language.

Francis looking at Ethan for the first time. "Baby"

Francis looking at a Beluga Whale (except you can't see the whale)

He loved playing with the blocks!

Francis was excited to see Elmo and Zoe from afar, but up close...not too sure.

carlsbad

2009-04-25T20:10:00.001-07:00

Tommy and I took a two day mini vacation with his parents to Carlsbad. We stayed at the Carlsbad Inn Resort. The weather was overcast, but it cleared up today before we left. We drove up Thursday night and just relaxed before going to bed. On Friday we went to lunch at Fish House Vera Cruz. They have delicious sourdough bread, ranch, and fish tacos. All of their food is amazing, but those are a few of our favorites. (Thanks Mathis Family for the gift certificate for Tommy's birthday in 2005. We finally used it!) Then we went for a bike ride around Carlsbad. We love renting bikes and riding around town. There are so many unique shops and bike trails in Carlsbad. For dinner, we went to a Mexican restaurant and then off to Linda's Yogurt for dessert. We ended the day relaxing in the jacuzzi with my brother-in-law Tim, who came up to visit for the evening. Today we had a chef salad and yogurt for lunch, walked on the beach, checked out of the Inn, visited the San Luis Rey Mission in Oceanside, and went to the movies to see 17 Again. I'd like to thank my in-laws who allowed this mini vacation to happen. We had a wonderful time.
Do you see the hummingbird in the nest?

sweet pea season

2009-04-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

Tommy's cousin, children, and I went to Summers Past Farms to see their sweet pea maze and other flowers in bloom. The owners have really expanded over the years. They have a soap store where they sell handmade soap and a novelty store where you can purchase a variety of things. There are many different types of gardens and a grass field where you can have a picnic. :) If you haven't been you should go and check it out!!

happy easter!

2009-04-12T11:50:00.001-07:00

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-09T16:55:00.001-07:00

Today I went to an Easter Egg Hunt with Tommy's family. Every year they go to the same park and hide eggs (filled with yummy candy, stickers, pencils, and much more!!!), eat a picnic lunch and even celebrate my nephew Camden's birthday!!! This year I took my nephew Francis. It was his first egg hunt. He had so much fun!!!

I'm not too sure about this...

Happy 7th Birthday!!!

Did the groundhog see his shadow?

2009-04-08T23:47:00.000-07:00

Francis did!

and the next American Idol is...

2009-03-22T18:41:00.001-07:00

Francis!!!

playing his piano

St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T17:33:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

espresso anyone?

2009-03-01T11:25:00.000-08:00

My mom bought me this espresso machine in 2003. Tommy just brought it in from the garage a couple weeks ago. He has used it a few times. We bought 2 types of grounds, but it keeps burning. Does anyone know about espresso machines and what are the best grounds to use?

old school

2009-03-01T11:22:00.001-08:00

Where's Lenore?

President's Day!

2009-02-17T17:27:00.000-08:00

Tommy's cousin and family came to town from Ohio for a couple weeks to visit. We went to in-n-out for lunch (eating in the car because it was raining) and then headed to La Jolla to the Birch Aquarium. The weather was pretty nice once we got to the beach. Because of the holiday and weather the aquarium was very crowded, but we still enjoyed the visit.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-14T14:57:00.000-08:00

We had a beach party with the family at Mission Bay. It was very relaxing. We flew kites, ate lunch, exchanged valentines, played on the playground and spent time with family.

first haircut

2009-02-10T21:34:00.001-08:00

3 amigas!

2009-02-09T08:12:00.001-08:00

Amber, Victoria, and I went to BJ's for dinner. The last time we saw each other was my birthday in 2007. Amber moved to Korea with her husband and son. Victoria and I just got caught up in our busy lives. We went to elementary school together. Victoria and I went to high school together too. Even though we don't talk and see one another often, it is nice to know that we can always call each other and get together to catch up on our lives. Now, Amber and her family are off to Germany for 3 years. I can't wait until she returns so we can play catch up again. :)

A Dora and Diego birthday party!

2009-02-01T21:46:00.000-08:00

I went to Aubrey's 3rd birthday and Noah's 2nd birthday. They had a Dora and Diego birthday party. It had a lot of fun games and activities including cotton candy, face painting, cupcake walk, inflatable bouncer, and much more!!! Christin decorated the cake all by herself!

birthday girl stuffing her face with cotton candy

birthday boy fishing

(A number was on the bottom of each fish and each child received that number of tickets. Then at the end they redeemed their tickets for prizes.)

Pin the banana on Boots

2nd annual desert trip

2009-01-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

We went to Ocotillo Wells for a 3 day adventure. I say adventure, because Tommy brought his dune buggy. His uncle built it from scratch and Tommy's family now owns it and keeps it running. Tommy and his brother Trevor worked on the buggy a week before we left to get it running so we could take it with us. They replaced and fixed a lot of parts on it. I am so thankful that they know what they're doing, because I have no clue. Every time we go to the desert we always bring the buggy home not running. Their goal this trip was to bring it back running and...they were unsuccessful.

In the desert we celebrated Emma and Reuben's 6th birthday!

This year the weather was a lot warmer than last year. We were all prepared for winter and we when got there it felt like summer. It was nice, because I rather be too hot than cold. Scott and Tina let us stay with them in their trailer. There were 11 of us who slept in the trailer...7 adults and 4 kids. They have 5 beds so we all had plenty of room. We camped with Mike/Kendra and their 5 boys, Scott/Tina and their 4 children, Scott's cousin John (Wyatt), Scott's parents and the three of us. Scott's other cousin and friends were there the first day, but had to leave early. Kendra's family and friends came Friday night and they're all staying through the weekend. We left Saturday evening.

bobble head

Tommy's new friend (the Fire Chief)-the buggy broke down on Friday afternoon...their mission: to fix the buggy. After 5 contacts and 18 hrs later Tommy was lead to the fire chief at Ocotillo Wells fire dept. On Saturday we went to the fire dept. and Tommy talked with the chief and told him the part he needed. The fire chief said he'd go home to see if he had the part. Not 10 minutes later he returned with not one but two! Just when we were about to leave they received a call and had to go. We got there just in time! This was the short version...for the long version give me a call :)

Tommy and Trevor fixing the buggy in the desert
(you never know what you can use a diet dr. pepper can for)

Thanks everyone for a fun and safe trip!!!

adorable

2009-01-08T19:55:00.001-08:00

1st birthday

2009-01-04T18:49:00.001-08:00

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY FRANCIS!!!
January 5, 2009

Go Chargers!

2009-01-04T18:42:00.000-08:00

On Saturday we were invited over to Tommy's cousins house. John made us fish (Mahi Mahi) and chicken tacos while we watched the football game. "They were the best fish tacos I have ever eaten" said Tommy. That means A LOT if you know my husband. :) John also made his own corn salsa and secret white sauce (sour cream, spices, hot sauce, and more!) thanks again John and Rachel!!! We can't wait to come back for more :)

Jodi's baby shower

2009-01-04T18:35:00.000-08:00

the girls that made it all happen...

It's a boy! I helped my friends at church set up my new best friend's baby shower. I had never met Jodi until the baby shower. My friends kept saying that we have so much in common and would be best of friends. Her theme as you can see is jungle animals. I loved the centerpieces and table settings. They were so cute! And now I have a new best friend!!!

chocolate cake with chocolate pudding filling
w/Reese's peanut butter cups sprinkled on top...delicious!!!

family visits san diego

2009-01-04T18:15:00.000-08:00

My sister flew down from Portland, Oregon for our nephew's 1st birthday. Here are a few pics while she was here.

my mom and Eddie's best friend, Francis, and Sean

Francis and his new ride

happy new year!!!

2009-01-01T10:56:00.001-08:00

2009!!!

sightseeing

2009-01-01T10:45:00.001-08:00

My brother drove down from Sacramento for Christmas and to be with the family. While he was here we decided to go to the Zoo and Sea World. I think the rest of California had the same idea. With it being Christmas and San Diego hosting the Holiday Bowl the parks were really crowded, but we made the best of it.

family christmas

2009-01-01T10:33:00.000-08:00

The Saturday after Christmas Tommy's extended family gets together and celebrates Christmas. We have a delicious breakfast at 8:30 and the children under the age of 18 open their stockings around 10am. Then we exchange presents. (We pick names the year before so we have a year to think of what to get the family member we chose). This year I filled the stockings. The stocking are handmade and decorated to the uniqueness of each child. There are now 8 cousins who live in San Diego under the age of 18. We hang out until around 2pm. For lunch we make ham sandwiches, if we're hungry. It's a fun time to be with family, play games, and eat!!!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-28T16:26:00.001-08:00

Tommy and I at my aunt's house for Christmas Eve

Sommer, Sean and Francis

I made this picture key ring for my nephew Francis...thanks Rachel for the idea!

Tommy received the 12 days of Christmas HORS D’OEUVRES

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T09:31:00.001-08:00

pond

2008-12-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

My mom loves fish and has wanted a pond in her backyard. My step dad built her one a few years ago, but it is time to upgrade. Here is what he built...the beginning stages...

Koi/Goldfish livin' it up!

Tommy's birthday

2008-12-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Tommy! (His real birthday is Dec. 11). We celebrated Tommy's birthday at Judy's Diner (a.k.a. my mom's house). She is a great cook! Tommy chose tonight's menu.

before

after

delicious strawberry shortcake

ho! ho! ho!

2008-12-12T16:33:00.000-08:00

Why is Santa so grumpy?

Women's Christmas Dinner

2008-12-09T21:27:00.000-08:00

me and Kristen

My church had a Christmas dinner in Alpine Monday night. We had a delicious dinner, worship, message, and more worship. It was a blessing! Thank you mom, Kristen, Robin, Amber, and Sydney for coming.

me and my momme and Heatherme, Sydney (niece) and Amber (sister-in-law)

deck the halls...

2008-12-05T15:53:00.000-08:00

What a productive day! Today Tommy had the day off and we made the most of it. I woke up early and e-mailed my assessments off to Doctrina Tutoring. Once Tommy woke up he put up Christmas lights on our house and we loaded up all of our recyclables (cans and plastic) into his SUV. It would have been more efficient if he had a truck, but we did the best we could with what we have. We went to Sombrero's for lunch...doesn't even compare to Karla's Mexican Food. Then we took the recyclables to the recycling center and $65 dollars later we were on our way to smog Tommy's car, which took an hour. While we were waiting we walked across the street to the Cadillac dealership and looked at cars. Finally, we went home and decorated the house. Tommy hung a picture on our wall that needed to be hung for a few months. I put out a snow scene and our stockings are hung on our mantle. Now I am getting ready to go to Sea World for their Passmember preview night. Yeah! I get my 2008 ornament to add to my collection. Tomorrow we're getting our Christmas tree and putting up all of our ornaments. Then the boxes can go back in the garage until after new year's. I love the Christmas season...

My grandma crocheted me this before she passed away. She made a tub full of crocheted Christmas tree skirts, blankets, and baby toys for each of her 4 grandchildren.This is my first year I get to use it!

Kristen and I at Sea World

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T23:28:00.001-08:00

the picture says it all...

Santa came early this year. Tommy got an XBOX 360 with Guitar Hero World Tour and other games. His brothers came over tonight along with Tim's girlfriend, Bethany, and we all played...some did better than others. :) I'll be able to record live tv with it too!

backyard fun

2008-11-27T21:23:00.000-08:00

Tommy took a ride on his bobcat the other day and worked in the yard. He was able to cut out a lot of the weed grass (a.k.a. bamboo according to me). It's taking over our yard. With all of his hard work we can now see our neighbors and their two dogs that bark at us all the time. Now that it has been raining I am sure Tommy can't wait to get back on the bobcat!

treasures found in the yard

baby shower

2008-11-24T10:38:00.001-08:00

Diana's baby shower for Kiera or Keira (they're not sure on the spelling) With all of our creative ideas we were able to put together this...

cute little fruit baby carriage

pink and purple....oh so cute!

delicious pumpkin cake...yummy!

All the girls!
Diana's mother helped out a ton!-not pictured

Fun baby shower memory game- it is just like memory...when you get a match the prize is a candy bar that is a result of the matching words. For example, hospital bill = 100 grand candy bar. twins = Mike n Ike. It's a lot of fun and everyone is involved!

Congrats!

2008-11-24T10:36:00.001-08:00

NOVEMBER - EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH!
I am so proud of you Tommy!

girl's night out!

2008-11-18T19:38:00.000-08:00

Diana and baby girl, Heather, Christin and baby girl, Lenore and Erin

"The girls" from Bible study all went to dinner at Buca di Beppo for a delicious dinner. We ate some yummy mozzarella garlic bread, mixed green salad, and 2 main dishes (Eggplant Parmigiana-Breaded and fried eggplant slices topped with marinara, fresh tomatoes, basil and mozzarella, then baked to golden perfection. Penne San Remo-Tender chicken breast, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes and peas tossed with imported Italian penne pasta in a white wine cream sauce). Next time we'll have to try their dessert.

video

2008-11-15T15:58:00.000-08:00

Here is my first video!!! I took a video of my nephew when we were driving in the car on Halloween. He's so cute! I love his little laugh...

Bates Nut Farm

2008-11-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

picnic area

I'm the king of the world!!!

Thanksgiving dinner

Pomegranate trees

yummy fudge!

Thank you Rachel for allowing me to come on the field trip with you.

90 years!

2008-11-01T20:34:00.001-07:00

Today I went to Redlands with my in-laws to celebrate Aunt Ruth's 90th birthday. Tommy wasn't able to come because he was on call at work. Every Thanksgiving Tommy's family went to Uncle Ross and Aunt Ruth's house to bury a turkey and spend time with family. We always went up the day after Thanksgiving so we could spend time with our immediate family as well. When Tommy was younger his family would camp outside and stay the next day for leftovers. Tommy's dad grew up spending holidays on this property as well. They were a little more adventurous back then. His dad and siblings would walk to the train tracks down the street at midnight to watch the train go by. There is also a hill nearby that they would slide down and a cement pool that they would go swimming in. When they were done their feet would be bleeding.

Aunt Ruth has chickens, goats, dogs, and turtles. She used to have an emu and llamas too. Her neighbors have a train in their backyard that people can ride. Movies have been filmed in their backyard.

*Fun fact: The other day Aunt Ruth killed a rattlesnake with her cane! Her family says that if she can kill a snake at 90 years old then she can continue to live on her own. :)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2008-11-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

Francis' first pumpkin

Dragon from Baby Einstein

"Trunk or Treat"

Pumpkin carvings

fun times with Francis

2008-11-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

Francis and Uncle Tommy having fun!

mmm...

2008-11-01T20:17:00.000-07:00

...apple pie! So, I baked my first apple pie the other day. I got the inspiration after my aunt baked one for my grandparents 66th wedding anniversary. Mine tasted delicious (says Tommy) but it was too runny. I used 4 apples (3 from Idaho and 1 from Albertsons). When I made the dry mixture it looked like a lot, but I used it all because that's what the recipe called for. I also added butter under the top crust. I don't think I could have used less apples, because then the pie wouldn't be plump. Do you know why my pie was so runny? Does anyone have a good apple pie recipe...John and Rachel?

my little pumpkin

2008-10-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

Francis 9 1/2 months old.
Poor guy is teething - rosy cheeks and fever :(

teenager

2008-10-22T08:36:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we celebrated our nieces 13th birthday at Presidio Park. It was a cupcake tea party. They had miniature foods and lunch meat that was shaped like hearts and flowers. Sydney and her friends played some fun games, for example, magazine scavenger hunt and musical presents. I met Sydney when she was 3 years old. I can't believe she's already a teenager!!!

Is she excited or what?

cruisin'

2008-10-22T08:30:00.000-07:00

Two days in a row when I came home I noticed the stuffed animals were posing on our bed. It reminded me of our 1 year anniversary when we went on a cruise. When you cruise, the maids make animals out of towels and pose them on your bed. So cute!

my new sticker!

2008-10-18T18:02:00.001-07:00

Here is my new sticker I put on my car. Isn't it cute? Thanks Rachel. I haven't forgot I still owe you. :)

more birthday wishes

2008-10-18T17:52:00.001-07:00

Sabrina, sorry it took me so long to post this...

Since Sabrina's birthday is on October 7th we celebrated together at Sammy's Woodfired Pizza. All 4 of us split their messy sundae. It was delicious!

birthday wishes

2008-10-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday! Today is my 28th birthday. I would like to thank everyone for their birthday wishes. The 3rd grade class I am subbing in made me adorable homemade cards. Tommy took
me to Miguel's Cocina in Coronado. We had a beautiful sunset on the way to the restaurant and we enjoyed a delicious plate of pollo asado, fish taco, cheese enchilada, rice, and beans. For my birthday they gave me a mud pie...my favorite!!!

My grandpa's birthday is October 3rd. He is 86 years old.
We celebrated with a Costco cake and balloons! Francis will be 9 months old on the 5th!

weekend

2008-09-21T23:06:00.000-07:00

This weekend was very busy. On Saturday, Tommy and I went to the Thunderboat Races with his dad. My friend Kristen was working at the event and gave me two tickets so we could check it out! (Thanks Kristen) We had a lot of fun and even got burned in September...only in San Diego. :)
On Sunday I went to the PKD Walk at Spanish Landing. My friend Andrea planned the event. Her mom has Polycystic Kidney Disease and they are trying to raise money for a cure.

Cinnamony!

2008-09-14T19:55:00.001-07:00

This is my 3rd post today! Tommy loves cinnamon chips from Sombrero's, so I thought I'd make him some. Here's how they turned out...

D E L I C I O U S !

10 Year Reunion

2008-09-14T19:37:00.001-07:00

Last night was my 10 Year High School Reunion. It was at The House of Blues downtown. In 10 years many people have gotten married and some have children and there were many that are still single focusing on their careers and waiting for that Mr./Mrs. Right. Overall, everyone looks the same. Here are a few pics from last night.

My friend Jen from high school

adorable

2008-09-14T19:21:00.000-07:00

My Nephew Francis - 8 months old

lunch time

2008-09-09T16:42:00.000-07:00

Today I went to the Wild Animal Park with my cousin-in-law and her 4 kids. Right when we went to see the lions they let them out of their behind the scenes enclosure and threw chunks of meat in the grass for them to eat. All 7 of them ran to find their lunch and they were fighting over the meat. You can see in the picture below which cub is the least aggressive. The cubs were born in November 2007. I saw them over Spring Break and they were so cute and little. They have grown a lot!

Where's my meat?

new haircut

2008-09-09T16:39:00.001-07:00

My new haircut

beauty

2008-08-24T16:51:00.000-07:00

what not to do

2008-08-11T12:06:00.001-07:00

Last week I was packing up an event for my job with KiddieCorp. I forgot I had scissors, so I went to tear the packing tape with my teeth and the tape got stuck on my lip. I tore the tape off my lip tearing the top layer of skin. My lip began to bleed and then began to heal itself over the next week. I looked like I had a cold sore and it hurt like heck. The next time I pack boxes the tape will not go anywhere near my lips.

**Moral of the story - Never tear packing tape with your teeth**

women's retreat

2008-08-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend I went to the women's retreat with my church at the Calvary Chapel Bible College in Murrieta Hot Springs. It was a wonderful experience. The theme was a weekend of praise. We learned to praise our Lord no matter what trials or tribulations we may be facing.

"I will praise you, o Lord, with all my heart, I will glorify your name forever." Psalm 86:12

leftovers

2008-08-08T07:41:00.001-07:00

I love making tacos for dinner, because there are so many things you can make with the leftovers. My favorite is taco salad. What do you do with your leftovers?

I came home one night and look what Tommy had left me...the kernals. He knows this is my favorite part of a bowl of popcorn. :)

Union Tribune

2008-08-02T13:54:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, July 31st I volunteered to build a KaBOOM! playground at an elementary school. My picture was in the local newspaper on Saturday, August 2 on page E6 (the article begins on the front page). I was on the team in charge of moving mulch...Fun times!

2 year anniversary

2008-07-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

Today is our 2 year anniversary! The traditional gift is cotton.

I woke up and saw this note on our counter...

Thank you Tommy for your love and support. Happy Anniversary!

Alaska

2008-07-21T08:04:00.001-07:00

My friend Michelle came to San Diego last week from Anchorage, Alaska. We've known each other since 1st grade. Her mom was our Brownie troop leader. She reminded me that she moved to Alaska 20 years ago and I haven't been up there to visit. So, Tommy and I are going to try to plan a trip next year. While she was here we took her to Casa de Pico for some REAL Mexican food. :)

wedding

2008-07-19T21:39:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we went to our friends Corrie and Mike's wedding. The wedding was very nice and they looked amazing! The reception was at Corrie's parents house. The atmosphere was perfect and the weather was wonderful! I loved all of the creative ideas at the reception. Congratulations Corrie and Mike!!! Have fun in Fiji!

Sea World...again!

2008-07-17T21:14:00.000-07:00

My home away from home. Yesterday I went to Sea World with some friends and family. There were a total of 3 adults and 8 children. One adult doesn't even have children yet...me. The kids had a lot of fun in Elmo's World. Wouldn't you agree?

swim meet

2008-07-12T23:03:00.000-07:00

GO TIGER SHARKS!!! Today Tommy and I went to our niece and cousin's first swim meet. It was very exciting! There were 5 styles: freestyle, back stroke, breast stroke, butterfly and IM 100meters (which is a combination of the previous 4). Sydney and Richard did an awesome job! We are so proud of them! Here are some pics I took of them in action.

Richard

Sydney

Cheerleaders

Then we all went to ski beach.

4th of July

2008-07-01T15:55:00.000-07:00

Tommy and went to the Surf and Sand Resort in Laguna Beach for the weekend. We had a great time. I had to work at the hotel, so we made a trip out of it. On the 4th we saw a panoramic view of four firework displays. It was amazing! They lasted an entire 30 minutes. On Saturday we saw dolphins swimming in the ocean (the highlight of my day) following a kayak back and forth for hours! On our way home Tommy took us to RJ's Cafe in Dana Point for brunch. It is delicious! This is the restaurant he took me to before he proposed in Catalina. Thank you KiddieCorp for giving us this wonderful opportunity.

cooking

2008-07-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple more dishes I made this week.

Double Corn Tortilla Casserole

Spicy Zucchini Boats
and
Italian Tomato Cheese Salad

What's on the menu?

2008-06-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

Hawaiian Pork Chops, Peach Salad, White Rice, and Bread...Yum!

Before

After

Summer

2008-06-20T12:49:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! My last day of school was June 19th. Now I get to enjoy the summer sun. I will be working part time at KiddieCorp this summer as well as looking for a teaching position...again. Things are looking pretty good in the district I subbed in this year, but I haven't signed on the dotted line yet. This summer I plan on spending time at Sea World with friends and family, scrap booking, meeting Tommy for lunch, attending a cousin's wedding, 10 year high school reunion, and much more!!! Tommy and I are hopefully going to Laguna Beach for the 4th of July. What are your summer plans?

Sea World

2008-06-14T15:27:00.000-07:00

Sommer, Francis and I went to Sea World a couple weeks ago. This was his first visit to the underwater world. We had a great time! We saw flamingos, sea lions, a walrus, a sea otter, and Elmo. He especially liked the Sesame Street 4D Movie.

laughter

2008-05-31T18:32:00.001-07:00

Great Grandpa --- Grandpa --- Grandson

Mother's Day

2008-05-18T22:49:00.001-07:00

This is the gift I gave my mother on Mother's Day. I stole this idea from a friend's blog who stole it from another friend. It is a business card holder from Target that I turned into a brag book. I printed out wallet size pictures and cut them to fit.

something yummy!

2008-05-18T22:01:00.000-07:00

I was at Albertsons the other day and found this in the produce section. It caught my eye and I had to buy it for dessert that night. I cut it up in pieces for Tommy and I. It was delicious. The apple was a little tart, but all of the caramel, milk and white chocolate chips topped it off. It only cost $5.00. What's your favorite treat?

CA Adventure

2008-04-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

Since we had a 2fer from the time I went to Disneyland over Spring Break we decided to go to CA Adventure this weekend. It was our first time going and it was a blast! There are some amazing shows and thrilling rides. As you can see in the pictures I didn't know what to expect on the rides...my nerves got the best of me. I don't like the feeling of dropping and on these particular rides you dropped, but I didn't know how far. After going on them I now know what to expect and they are not bad at all.