my sister...my hero

My little sister Josue is still hanging on with three babies in her rapidly growing belly. She has been in the hospital for 5 weeks now. She got a surprise visit from my mom this weekend because it was her birthday. Every time she answers the phone she says she is fine and manages somehow not to let the tears flow. She is strong and a great example to me! Not too long ago that was me and I can't say that I was strong. We all have our trials in life and one experience only prepares us for the next. Sometimes I feel like I have such a long road ahead of me. My body is starting to feel the physical demands of carrying, bathing, feeding and caring for a daughter who relies on me for everything. But when she looks at me and smiles, I can see in her eyes that she understands and loves me. Pretty soon Josue will be looking at three new faces and will feel a little overwhelmed, but imagine the happiness that will come to all us mothers in the end when we see the fruits of our labors.

what we've been up to!

So when does school start? We have been keeping busy with activities. Ashton did t ball and is almost done with soccer. He has done really well and it is good to see him work at something. Marin continues her gymnastics and is awesome. She moved to Level 2 and is learning to do handstands on the balance beam. She is also doing horseback riding and smooth talked her way into grandma buying her some new boots. I was surprised she came home with red cowgirl boots. Not her usual choice. Yesterday I saw her dismount the horse bareback while it was walking. Her teacher is helping them to learn what to do if there is a "horse emergency". Greyson is a bundle of energy, loves to be outside, wants nothing to do with the potty and wants to wear a beanie when he goes out. WHATEVER! Mesa is doing some physical therapy and actually loves going to all the games and the park now, which is different than before. She is so sweet and brings a wonderful spirit into our home.

Keep em coming.... but not yet

My older sister Deanna had her 7th baby a few weeks ago. Her body might be getting a little worn out. She had to have a C section for the first time and the baby revealed fat rolls and was 9 pounds 5 ounces, plus the cord was wrapped about his neck just a few times. So all in all the C section turned out to be a very good thing. They named him Brock and I wonder what brave woman will marry him someday when he tells her that he has 6 older sisters. YIKES! Baby #3 is on almost ready to make an appearance in Arizona to my little brother and his wife.
And I am sad to report that my baby sister has been banished to the hospital and is on complete bed rest with her triplets. She is fighting every day to keep things under control and she actually fired a nurse the other day from ever coming in her room again. I laughed remembering that I did that about 3 times myself. Why do people think you want to hear their life story when you are having contractions, uncomfortable, hungry and tired? I think all the Labor and Delivery nurses should have to be on bed rest for a week just so they know how horrible and annoying it is.
I have a prayer in my heart for her every second of the day, pleading with God that those little spirits will stay in her belly for many more weeks. I know she will be blessed because she is a wonderful, loving and fabulous person!

Happy are we, Happy are we!!!!

A few weeks ago Aaron, Ashton, Marin and I jetted off to Disneyland. We have been trying to go for a few years and we were very excited. It worked out to be a great time of the year to go. It actually wasn't too busy and Marin and Ashton are the perfect ages. We spent one long day at Disneyland and the next whole day at California Adventure. We tortured ourselves and rode the Tower of Terror twice because we like to scream. We partied from sun up to sun down. I was sad that the weekend went by so fast.

The car ride

Here is what a typical trip in the car is like with a two and a half year old who has the vocabulary of a college professor.

Mom, I got fruit snacks stuck in my teeth.
Mom, it's hot in here.
Mom, there's a car on the floor, will you stop and get it?
Mom, the window is dirty.
Mom, I don't like this song.
Mom, can I have a sucker?
Mom, can we go to the park after lunch?
Mom, that dog is looking at me.
Mom, it's cold in here.
Mom, my foot really hurts.
Mom, where is my drink?
Mom, where is Ashton and Marin?
Mom, what are we having for dinner?
and finally today he ended the dialogue with
Mom, I am freaking out back here, I am freaking out!
I am not kidding!

Stairmaster with weights

my gold medalist wrestler

I am so proud of Ashton and his hard work this year in wrestling. I think for a 5 year old all that wrestling entails is a little overwhelming. Practice two nights a week for 2 hours and then tournaments on Saturday. Plus parents who are passionate about sports and want to see our kids work hard. It was his first year and a little rocky. He did acquire about 6 medals and is proud to show them off.