Our 3 Ring Circus

Family Camp out with the Cub Scouts

2011-12-18T17:13:00.002-05:00

Day Trip to the Keys with my mom and godmother.

2011-12-18T17:08:00.002-05:00

Me and my godmother, Karen. (Man, where did my eyes go?)

My mom and Karen, besties from high school.

Keys - end of September

2011-12-18T16:17:00.008-05:00

Adrian and Marsel. We went to this butterfly place, it was pretty cool. This was in Key West.

Closed.

Open.

Marsel wanted a butterfly to land on him sooo badly. And it did.

Adrian looking at the butterfly that landed on my shoulder.

Butterfly on my shoulder.

Marsel- this was at our hotel. (In Long Key.)

Getting out of the pool.

Who knows what they were looking at.

Alan, Adrian and Marsel.

Alan and me.

Adrian wearing Caridad's hat, Alan and Caridad.

Alan and Alan Jr.

Alan and Adrian.

That's Alan and Marsel snorkeling.

Alan and Adrian.

Cari and Marsel feeding the tarpon.

Adrian feeding them.

Marsel has no fear.

Cute brothers.

Our Boston Trip in July

2011-12-18T16:01:00.003-05:00

Boston side.

Cambridge side. Building with all the crap on top is a Harvard building.

Cheers!

Adrian's 3rd birthday

2011-12-18T15:51:00.002-05:00

I'm so behind on posts, so I'll try to catch up...

This is from Adrian's birthday in MAY!

Birthday cake at home.

At his "Pirate" birthday party.

The Trials of Potty Training

2011-04-19T21:56:00.003-04:00

He went to wipe himself, (although he hadn't done anything yet), and the paper got stuck in his crack. He started spinning around saying "where did it go, mommy?" Then when he realized where it was, he started running around the house.

For CJ

2011-04-10T14:56:00.004-04:00

Disney trip: January 2011

Boys watching fireworks.

Chef Mickey's.

Adrian wearing Marsel's shoes.

Camping with the Cub Scouts

2011-01-17T08:55:00.006-05:00

Adrian at the playground.

Marsel and Adrian.

Mr. Steve (pack leader) and Adrian. When Adrian says his name it sounds like "Mr. T".

Marsel fishing. None of them caught anything other than weeds and the trees.

Marsel was on a mission to get these oranges, and when he did they were awful. So bitter! But check out his nose. Wait for it...

See the dirt boogies?

This was at the flag retirement ceremony. Marsel got to do it.

Adrian was checking out Mr. Steve's truck with Daddy, holding ALL is animals: doggie, froggie and George.

Adrian helping Mr. Steve fold up the tent.

Eating an apple.

Some Pics from Xmas

2011-01-10T15:41:00.004-05:00

Adrian checking out his present.

Adrian and Marsel in Marsel's go cart.

It's pretty cool!

Marsel opening his presents.

Sleepy Adrian opening his stuff.

picture with Santa.

The boys had a very nice Christmas. We had to wake them up at 10:30. I couldn't believe they slept that long. Marsel always sleeps late. Joel and I have had to wake him up every year. But Adrian, mister Rooster too. Their so different then me. I was up before the sun. Every year I got up earlier. One year, it wasn't even Christmas yet. Not these too.

Off With Her Head...Errr, I Mean Hair.

2010-12-12T21:19:00.001-05:00

My new do.

(Pls ignore all the Xmas stuff on the table.)

What we've been up too...

2010-12-04T12:24:00.008-05:00

Thanksgiving Trip to Orlando.

Lion sleeping.

Bed of nails.

Wonder Works.

Dad's visit Oct. 2010

Nurse Sharks.

Baby and Mommy Manatee.

Marsel, Adrian and me in Islamorada.

Marsel's 1st fish, behind our house.

Adrian putting on my Dad's boots.

Adrian and Grandpa checking the "fish" out in the pool.

Ally's wedding

Aug. 2010

Flagler Beach

Me and Chrissy.

For the 1st time ever, my hair is longer than her's.

Chris and Brian.

Rest in Peace Poppy.

2010-09-18T21:41:00.006-04:00

John F. Pickles II

October 4, 1919 - September 10, 2010

Adrian

2010-07-29T12:25:00.005-04:00

This is Adrian playing around. I was trying to get him to do a "sad face".

This is Adrian jumping on our bed. And of course I'm trying to do and say stuff that he choices not to do. Oh well.

Play Date

2010-07-29T12:00:00.002-04:00

Adrian and Faith.

Love the lady's hair behind Adrian. (I wasn't trying to get her in the pic, just did.)
Adrian watching Giada play.

I was a little nervous with him coming down the slide, being that's how he broke his leg. But this slide was like a 100 times smaller.

A Few Pictures From 4th of July Weekend.

2010-07-29T11:48:00.003-04:00

Adrian playing with "the mustache".
Kasie looking very handsome.

Gaby looking Evil!

Pucker up.

Danny holding Adrian because he was not into the fire works, with Gary and Jasmine.

Yes, yes I did pull his hair back like a little girl. He likes. He asks for it some times.

A little alone time...

2010-07-20T11:12:00.002-04:00

Joel and I figured out how to have a few minutes of just us 2 time while out to dinner with the boys... let them play under the table after they've finished eating. Last night was the first time Adrian tried to get down with Marsel. He saw him do it when he went to the bathroom. At first we tried to stop him. But then they were being quiet-ish and were entertaining themselves. So Joel and I were able to have dessert while they were playing.
The only problem is making sure it's a cleaner restaurant.

Some pics of the boys.

2010-06-29T09:36:00.004-04:00

Marsel and Adrian last night after Marsel's basketball game. (They won 11-4.)
So stylish, isn't he.

Adrian with his socks on his hands.

Adrian showing me how he sleeps. I love the faces he's making at the end.

Marsel was a little mad at himself for missing that 1st free throw. You can see it after he misses.

Damn Dragonflies!

2010-06-14T15:09:00.007-04:00

Adrian and I went to Tracy and Travis's graduation party on Saturday. It was so stinkin HOT! And we were only there for a few hours in the the morning. He was diggin it though. He was able to run around. And they had 2 footballs, which he wanted to play with at the same time. The kid's funny. Anyway, he noticed the dragonflies. There were BUNCHES of them everywhere. He was determined to catch one.

Adrian either playing with the football, or chasing dragonflies.

He was getting annoyed with the dragonflies. He was running back and forth and they kept flying away from him as he would get close.

Almost.

Sorry about me laughing.

Pics from Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-12T15:05:00.004-04:00

Marsel and Adrian playing Wii.

Baby Marcel.

Adrian feeding Lexi. (She's in Oreo's cage, it's like a mansion to her.)

Kasie and Adrian in bed.

Looks like such a big guy.

Pitching a fit about having to get out of the pool.
He was mad!

Camping with Cub Scouts

2010-06-12T14:21:00.004-04:00

Good Morning Adrian!

Gaby, Marsel and Kasie (she's under the purple blanket), sleeping.
Adrian and Tio Marcel. (Adrian was doing just like he was.)

Adrian and Tio Marcel play fighting.

Marsel shooting the bow and arrow.

Cameron beating Gaby up.

Adrian beating Gaby up.

Kasie carrying Marsel around.

Marsel "crossing over" to become a Bear.

He's no longer a Wolf.

A couple of weeks ago, we went camping with the cub scouts. Crap it was hot outside! It was the first time Adrian and I went along. It went well, except for the heat.

Kasie and I went back to the house to take a much needed shower, and she asked me if we could just stay at the house. I told her that I wished. Needless to say on Sunday when I went to work, I was like the walking dead. And Joel tells me that they all took a 3 hour nap. Every single one of them. Him, Marsel, Gaby, Kasie, Adrian, even the dogs. Niiiiiiccceee.

No I Love You's

2010-06-11T11:32:00.002-04:00

All I was trying to do was get an I love you back, but noooooo! He was telling me to put the camera down, which was him saying "table". Then he said "no Adrian." Which I took to mean, Adrian will not be sying I love you.

Little Fart.

Pictures from Adrian and Danica's Party

2010-05-11T10:35:00.006-04:00

Danica and Melanie.
Madalyn from Adrian's school.

Adrian with his baseball bat.

Andy.

Happy 2nd birthday Adrian.

Happy 1st birthday Danica.

Adrian giving Danica a kiss.

Kasandra

Gaby trying in vain to fix the generator.

Jerry and Jonah. (A mini Jerry.)

Faith, Crystal's daughter.

Adrian riding the pony.

Melanie and Danica.

Marsel ridin the bigger pony.

Eunice and Marcel.

Adrian and Grandma.

Adrian and AJ.

Andy chalaxin.

Dominic and Adrian playing tennis on the Wii.

Marcel.

Playing with Abuela.

Love the hair and the look.

May 5, 2010

2010-05-11T10:17:00.004-04:00

He was posing for me.

2 years old.

Sorry about the turning of the camera. See how he totally disses me about the kiss.

Some pictures from baseball.

2010-05-11T10:07:00.002-04:00

Marsel pitching. Usually he's the catcher.

Pine Wood Derby (Districts)

2010-05-11T09:41:00.003-04:00

We went to the district Pine wood derby races. (This was the 1st, 2nd and 3rd places winner from the local packs getting together to race each other.) And Marsel got 2nd place over all. There were 17 cars total.

Receiving his trophy.

Adrian chillin with Dad.

Such a good boy.

Marsel's car is the green one, 2nd lane from the right.

Honor Roll Again

2010-05-11T09:31:00.002-04:00

Marsel made the honor roll again this semester. We're so proud of him. Then we made him so mad at us. Joel and I both went to the assembly at school, which was at 9:30 in the morning. It was maybe half an hour long. When we were saying bye to him his asked if he could come home with, because he was allowed. He said other kids were doing. Joel and I looked around and we didn't see any kids leaving with their parents. Parents were leaving out the door and the classes were lining up to go back to their rooms. We said no, that he needed to stay, because it was so early and they were having a pretty big test the next day. At that he turned, got in the back of the line, wouldn't say I love you, good-bye or even look at us. He was so mad. We're so mean.

Sharing a Room.

2010-05-11T08:54:00.002-04:00

A little over a month ago, we moved Adrian from his crib into his bed in Marsel's room. He's done very well with it. He can get in and out of bed, but doesn't roll out of it. And the funny thing is, when we lay him down, and he's crying he won't crawl out of bed. Even though he can.

This was right before we woke them up.

(These pictures were taken about a week before Adrian had his cast removed from his leg. All is good with that now.)
He actually woke up in a nice mood. That doesn't always happen.

Adrian is totally digging being in BB's room. He can now get to most of Marsel's toys.

We've actually since moved their beds around. We had to. They were playing and bugging each other. Adrian goes to bed an hour before Marsel and most of the time is already asleep by the time he gets in there. But there have been a few times that he wasn't or he woke up. Then they would start talking to each other. Adrian would tell Marsel to hand him certain toys. Joel and I were watching them on the baby monitor one night, and they both were so tired, but wouldn't give it up. Marsel was laying on his stomach with his feet up so Adrian, who was on his knees could tap the bottom of Marsel's feet. Like they were playing Patty Cake. So more than a few times we've had to tell Marsel to go to sleep in our bed and then we'll move him when they're both asleep. The first few times we did this, Adrian got mad! He would say, "No mommy. BB naanaa Adrian." Naanaa is what we say for going to bed. So what he was telling me was, Mom, BB is suppose to go to sleep in here with me. But seems to understand what's going on when Marsel goes to our room. I think they're funny together, how they get along. It's pretty cool with 6 1/2 years between them. Hoping they stay this close as they get older.

Easter Sunday

2010-04-09T11:20:00.004-04:00

Fort Lauderdale Beach

Zoom Zoom

2010-04-05T20:01:00.004-04:00

This past Sunday, Marsel had his Pinewood Derby for his cub scout pack. First they run against each other with in their own den. They run 3 times each. There are 3 lanes on the track, so they run in each lane once. Then they take the fastest cars from each den and run then against each other. It's a pretty big deal. They weigh the cars, and they have to be within a certain length. Once they've done this, the cars can not be touch again. They get put to the side and the boys don't touch them again.

Marsel cut the car out himself. Joel set him up with the drill, I think. I honestly don't know what it was that they used. But he looked cut. Standing outside with his goggles on working on his car. Gaby helped him with the color scheme. Joel sanded it and they painted it together.

Sooooo, Marsel's car was the fastest in the WHOLE pack. Every race that his car was in, he won. That was pretty cool. Both Joel and Marsel were happy.

They have the district races on the 24th of this month. That's where all the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners from all the packs in the area get together and race against each other.

1st place of the whole pack.
Happy boy.

A blurry picture of us.

Marsel's car is the one all the way on the left, closest to the guy in the chair.

I'll post how it goes at districts on April 24th.

Markham Park

2010-03-28T23:33:00.006-04:00

Yesterday we decided to spend the day at the park with Joel's family and my Mom. The weather was soooo beautiful. Sunny and breezy, and not too hot. We had a nice spot under the trees by the water.

Joel, Marcel Sr., Marsel Jr. and I played a little bit of Baseball. (If you could call it that. hee hee.) But it was good to get out and run around a bit. And surprisingly, I'm not sore today. A little red, but my muscles don't hurt. Maybe because I don't have any. :)

The city was having an event close by, so Daylen took the boys over to check out the fire and ladder trucks. And the park we went to has a shooting range in the back, so we brought our guns. While we were gone, Daylen said that AJ and Adrian got into a fight. Imagine that. Adrian in a fight. The kid has so much attitude.

The day was very nice. Needless to say we are really tired to today. We suck. One day of play and we're done.

Grandma fighting with the boys. Wonder where Adrian gets from?

Grandma giving it to Marsel.

Marcel shooting the AR.

Eunice doing. It was her 1st time shooting ever. And she shot 2 different guns.

Me and my Momma.

Me.

Marcel and Eunice.

Alan, Marcel and me.

Mom shooting the 9mm.

Eunice.

Me.

AJ, Baby Marcel and Adrian.

A crocagator swimming by. Are all the kids accounted for? It's a good thing we didn't bring Krypto and Oreo, they're good crocagator bait.

Abuela playing with the kids.

Dominic and Adrian.

Our big man, Marsel.

The little man, Marcel.

An Ow-E

2010-03-22T09:01:00.000-04:00

Adrian has a hair line fracture. He did it coming down the slide last weekend. His foot got stuck underneath him and that's all it took. He did really well with the xrays and putting the cast on. In fact, the xray tech said he was his best patient of the day. Just give him a lolly pop and his good to go. He's having a hard time walking on it though. I'm going to go pick up a boot today, hopefully that will help. Poor thing, it keeps slipping out from under him on the tile.

To California we go.

2010-02-06T11:34:00.002-05:00

Dad and Adrian looking at a remote control airplane/helicopter mag.

Adrian and Tristan. (They're 7 weeks apart.)

I have a bunch more pictures from the trip, just not in the mood to put them up. I had a really great time. The flying part wasn't so bad. A bit stressful doing it by myself with Adrian.

Thank you Freida for letting us stay with you. I very much enjoyed myself. I really hope that I didn't get on your nerves too much. (And if I did, sorry. That's why I planned a shorter trip.) Love you!

Thought for sure that was it...

2010-01-24T21:20:00.002-05:00

I thought last night Oreo was gone for good. Marsel left the door open to the garage by accident. And we're not sure how long it was open before we saw it. Joel's brother, Marcel and wife, Eunice where hanging out, so Joel and Marcel jumped in the car. And I started checking between houses where they have gone before when they make a break for it. And they were no where. It was really scaring me because I passed a bunch of ducks and 3 cats, and I know Oreo would never just pass any of them. One of the kids a couple of doors down heard me bellowing for Krypto and Oreo and came out to help me. I mean I was screaming for them. When I rounded the corner a car came up behind me and asked if I was looking for the 2 dogs. They told me that Joel and Marcel had already gotten Krypto and that a man in a white car had picked up Oreo and they were pretty sure that they all had connected to get Oreo. (Joel told me after it was all over, that those people are our new neighbors from across the street that I didn't recognize.) Joel said that they were actually out of their car trying to get the boys were Joel pulled up. He said they had pulled their car over and even left the doors open. I was so worried than about were Oreo was. I instantly starting thinking that this man had taken Oreo and left. I know I thanked them, but not enough. I'm going to go over there tomorrow to really say thank you. So anyway, I walked to the end of the street and I saw where Joel had pulled over, but I didn't see them get out or anything. Then they pulled away. So I thought that was it. Thought they couldn't find Oreo. I started walking back to the house. And Reshaud, (neighbor boy) it walking back. He asked me did they get them. I told him they had Krypto, but didn't know about Oreo. And I was crying. Sniffling too. I can't tell you how relieved I was when I saw Marcel get out carrying Krypto, and Joel holding Oreo by the collar. Right before that, I was thinking, trying to prepare myself for them being gone. No Moosie next to me in bed, stealing the covers and snoring in my ear.
I was stilling crying, more out of relief when I walked in the house. (BTW, Eunice stayed with the kids. We didn't just run out leaving them there.) Adrian saw me crying and came running. He said "Mommy, Mommy. Up. Up" Then he tilted his head to look at my face, then he hugged me, he laid his head on my shoulder and patted my back. He said something about Oreo and Coco, then babbled something. (Coco is my mom's dog, and this is what he calls Krypto.)This was so sweet, that it made me tear up a bit more. (Yeah, I know, what a wuss.) He had some kind of understanding of what was going on. He knew I was crying and it had to do with the dogs.
Later on, we were sitting around and Adrian was playing with Marcel. He would run up to him yelling "Tio. Tio." Then he said some stuff that Marcel didn't understand, but I got it. He was asking if Krypto and Oreo could come out of their cages. Marcel told him "No, they were bad boys. They're in timeout." Adrian ran over to their cages and starting wagging his finger at them and saying "No, No Oreo, Coco." The kid's not stupid.
So anyway, they're both home now. And I'm so grateful for the people across the street, the guy who got Oreo and stayed there and waited, Joel and Marcel. And every person who drove by and didn't hit them. Thank you Lord for watching over my boys and bringing them home.

The Big 3-0

2010-01-18T21:08:00.005-05:00

Last weekend was my 30th birthday. It was easier than I thought it might be. I didn't feel any older. And after checking in the mirror when I got up, I didn't notice any more wrinkles. There very well could have been more gray hair, but that did go unnoticed. I asked Joel quite a few times through out the day and the rest of the weekend, if he was going to be trading me in for a "younger" model now that I was 30. He said he'd mulled it over, and decided not now. :)
Chrissy came down for my birthday. So when she got here, we headed to the mall. Because of course I needed a new outfit for my birthday. Then it was time to get ready for dinner. It was a surprise as to where we were going. Joel and my mom took me to Bucca di Beppo. So good.

Making my wish.

Doesn't Jose look thrilled? (Thanks for coming Jose. For real, I mean that.)

The pimp.

"Yo, what up?"

Chris looking cute. (So glad you were here. Wish you where here always.)

Joel and Mom, thank you both for making my birthday a special day. I really had a wonderful day. And thank you for my gifts! I love you both.

Mom, thanks for waiting a minute for me - always.

Joel, thanks for deciding not to trade me in just yet.

Dancing Machine

2010-01-14T21:05:00.002-05:00

New Year's 2010

2010-01-10T21:38:00.008-05:00

How many kids can you get into a wagon?
Adrian and Gaby

Gaby trying to teach Adrian something.

Adrian trying to teach Gaby the "right" way to do it.

Ok, this is Gaby who is 15 and in 9th grade, and Lee who is 12 and in 6 th grade. See what they choose to play with?

Doing the ski jump.

Eunice doing the jump.

Moosy-moo trying to climb into my lap.

Krypto, always looking for the "perfect" place to lay down.

Go Marsel!

Adrian and Kasandra

Marcel bowling.

Kasandra, Marcel and Caridad (Joel's mom) playing tennis.

Think they're tired?

Dominick and Adrian at the park.

Briana and Kasandra

Look at those curls.

Thought this was funny. We're trying to get them to look at us, uh, yeah, no, it so didn't happen. Marcel is grabbing Adrian, I think. Dominick is trying to get the handle. Could you imagine if we let them out?

Marsel and Gaby.

This was the scene in the morning. There were bodies every where. Joel's mom was on the other couch, Marcel Sr. and the kids were in Marsel's room. Adrian was the only one who had his room to himself. There were 13 of us. Plus the 2 dogs.

Jose

Poor Kasie.

So we had a full house for New Year's, which went on until Sunday. But it was all good. We played wii the whole time. aND Gaby had brought his DJ Hero for the xbox, so we all had something to do.

Pictures from the Holiday(s)

2010-01-05T23:36:00.005-05:00

Adrian and Dominick.

Dominick

Scuba Steve

Adrian

Dominick and Briana

Baby MarcelChrissy and Chrissy

Christina, Kristina and Christina (hee hee)

Chris and Kevin. (We all we to high school together.)

Adrian feeding himself Xmas dinner.

Some of it actually made it in his mouth.

His new toy from Grandma.

Marsel and Adrian in the wagon Santa brought.

Playing with the remote to the car that is upside down.

Hugging me after he threw a baseball at my head.

What Santa brought for Marsel.

Our version of the Sphinx.

Please note the pointed toe.

Gaby in his Xmas jammies. How cute.

We had an early Christmas Eve at my cousin Teri's house. We get together every year for dinner and exchange gifts. And then afterward we went to see some of Joel's family. His aunt, uncle, cousins with their kids were all down from Orlando. It was the first time I met his cousin Jessica. And it was the first time that ALL of our kids were together. They're all very close in age.

My cousin Tonja's son, Chase.

My cousin Teri's son, Ed and Marsel.

Adrian and Roxy. He was feeding her. (Her dog food and whatever food he had in his hands for himself. Roxy was diggin Adrian, he was the only one who was the perfect height for her.)

Tonja, Chase and Adrian.

Sofia, Adrian and AJ. (Jessica's daughter and Joel's brother's son.)

Adrian and Catalina. (Jessica's other daughter.)

Marsel. (I love his smile in this picture.)

Brothers.

(These were taking in the morning.) Adrian and his messy hair at the park.

My bare chested boys.

Christmas was very nice. It was very busy the weekend before and leading up to Xmas. The weekend before was the day that we went to my cousin's house and spent time with Joel's family. After dinner, we went down to Joel's brother's house. Crap he lives so far away. Joel and I were joking that we should just forget going to their house and go to the Keys. We were only 10 from US1 were you drive down. But we decided not to, we didn't have anything pack with us. :) It was a nice time. There was a crap load of us. And I swear the kids out numbered us. I didn't count them all, but I think they had us. Thank goodness their too small to know. I got to meet Joel's cousin Jessica, her husband and 2 daughters. Also his cousin Jay's son, Felix. Who turned 2 on Xmas Eve. Poor Joel was the only one wake when we pulled into the drive way. Adrian was out before we got on 95, and Marsel not farther after that.

During the week, I was so crazy busy. I had so many private clients wanting a massage before Xmas, which was great for the gifts, but it meant the house suffered. I didn't put up all the decoration I had wanted to. Plus, I was doggie sitting. On Xmas Eve, my bf Chrissy come down to spend Xmas with us. (Chris, I think you should do it every year!) We spend the evening down at Jose's house with his family. They do a good sized party every year. And it had been 2 years since we went down there for the Eve. We had a really good time. Laughed soooo much. We had such a good time that we didn't leave until 2am. And that was just b/c we realized the time and we still had some presents to wrap. And Santa needed to put the wagon together. Joel, Chris and I were up until 4am. We went to bed praying Adrian would sleep past 7. He did. Almost to 9. (No, he wasn't up until 2am. We brought his play pin and he went to bed around 8:30.) After opening presents and having breakfast, we all, (except for Marsel) took a nap. Even the 3 dogs did too. Krypto started out in bed, then went to a chair in the leaving room, and Oreo and Charlie slept at mine and Chrissy's feet. Joel slept with his TV. (He got a TV to go in our room.) And since we didn't have the bracket to mount it, he set it up in family room temporarily. And he took a nap with it. I was thinking he was gonna tell me to sleep on the couch that night so he could put in in bed with him. He didn't. After a nice nap, and having to tell Marsel to keep the "wii-ing" down, we went over to my mom's for Xmas din din. Mmmm, prime rib. It was another long day, but nice.

The Zeakster and Troublemaker

2009-12-28T20:34:00.004-05:00

Christmas Cactus

Trouble and Zeak

Wanting me to let them out into the back yard. Sorry boys, it's a no go.

Mr. Trouble

Zeakie

Here are some of the pictures, Cindie. Sorry I'm the only one who ever gets to enjoy your Christmas Cacti. :)

Our "Angel"...

2009-12-12T20:22:00.003-05:00

On Thursday, the boys and I went and picked up a Christmas tree. (Yes, I know, a little late.) Joel was in Key West for the day because of work. He said leave the tree in the back of the truck and he would bring it in when he got home. Today, 2 days later, I broke down and put the tree up. Marsel wanted to help hang ornaments. I told him he had to hang the unbreakable ones at the bottom of the tree, so if- when Adrian touches them they won't break.

This is about half way. I was trying to finish the ribbon around him hanging stuff up.

And here is our "angel". Joel's mom is here for the weekend and she noticed it. (Thank goodness it was just a lizard and not a roach! YUCK!)

December 10, 2003

2009-12-10T20:41:00.002-05:00

Six years ago today, Joel and I were in Orlando. We went up to Disney World. I remember waking Joel up around 5am, telling him I didn't feel so good, my throat was hurting me. I thought it was because of the cold weather. (I was hoping anyway.) It was a bit nippy up there. We had had breakfast at Chef Mickey's, and then spent the better part of the afternoon at the Magic Kingdom, until I couldn't take it anymore. It got to the point where everything was sore. Joel was walking and taking pictures and I would find a place to stand. And wait. So he said we would go back to the hotel so I could lay down. Did that, and felt better. We had plans to have dinner at the California Grill in the Contemporary Hotel. (Super nice.) After a nap, Joel wasn't feeling so good. But he said he wanted to go anyway. We had reservations for 7p.m. I think Joel was pushing me out the door around 5:30p.m. He said he didn't want to be late. I told him, I told think we will. We just have to take the bus to catch the monorail and it will drop us off at the Restaurant. But whatever. He was a little keyed up, like do we have everything? Are you ready? On the way there, and then when we arrived, waiting for the table, (because we were an hour early) he couldn't sit still. I asked him WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU? Nothing. So now I'm getting nervous. I'm starting to wonder, is he gonna propose? No, don't get your hopes up. So, we sit down, place our order. We talking, it's a nice evening. And all the while I'm trying to tell myself to not be upset if he doesn't ask. Before they brought dinner, I went to use the bathroom. You know, one of those nervous pees, where it feels like you have to go, but not so much. Yeah, that was me. When I came around the corner, our food had been brought, and mine had one of those silver domes over the top of it. My heart started pounding! And I was trying to keep this huge stupid grin off my face. As I sat down, the waiter came to remove it, and you know what was under it? My food. I can't remember now what I had, but I remember taking small bites thinking maybe Joel hid a ring inside my food. I didn't want to choke on it. (Man, that would have been a story!) We finish our meals and the waiter asks if we would like dessert. Joel asked if I would like dessert. I said sure. But I was thinking HELL YES! Even if I hadn't wanted it, I would have ordered some. While we were waiting, we were talking. And he was telling me how much he loved me and how much I mean to him. And thank you for putting up with all that I had. So now, my heart is pounding. I was for sure he would notice it. Like the pulse in my neck was so obvious. (But now, I think his own heart beat was too loud for him to hear mine.) He asked me like 3 times,"You know I love you, right" I answered him yes every time and said I loved him. By the 3rd time, I asked Joel, are you ok? He said, yes, I'm fine, but I need to make sure you love me if you're going to marry me. And then he slid a small black box across the table to me. Stupid me, I ask him if I can open. (No, Chris, you can't open it. I'm just giving you a box, but you may never open it. Hope you like it. He didn't say this, but he should have.) When I opened it, I didn't know what to say. The fact that this was actually happening, and that he loves me enough to want to spend the rest of his life we me, left me speechless. I'm not really sure how many times he said it, But I remember answering him 3 times. He keep saying "Well?" And I'm answering,"yes." But it wasn't sinking in, and he kept asking. So I got up and hugged him, and I was crying at this point. (Duh. I was probably crying before that and just don't remember.) The table behind us realized what just happened and was congratulating us. Then here comes the waiter, (This guy was good. Kinda reminds me now, of the butler from the movie Mr. Deeds. Very sneaky, appears out of no where.) telling us congratulations. I have the biggest smile on my face as we're leaving. And as we were walking toward the elevator, all the hostesses and servers were at the door, clapping and congratulating us. It was pretty cool.
So we're hugging, and talking, and I'm staring at my ring. I don't know how I didn't walk into a door or wall. Then, a thought came to me. I asked Joel do you ask me to marry you or tell me I was marring you? He said he wasn't real sure, but I knew what he meant. True. We got on the monorail to take us to the bus and then back to the hotel. We riding, and talking, and riding, and riding. Then we notice that we're going right back to we're we started from. Yeah, we got on the wrong one. And since it was late, we had to ride the monorail to Epcot, get off there and catch the bus. Oops. :) Oh well.
I remember when we where laying in bed, and I think Joel was asleep, I was still looking at my ring. And smiling. Then waking up the next morning, not feeling so great, and looking at my ring, thinking, cool, it was real, I didn't dream it. (It was so hard to not talk with my hands. I'm a hand talker as it is. If I sit on them, I can't say crap. But now it was even harder. I felt like I was hand model on QVC or Home Shopping Network.)
The rest of our trip was ok. Joel felt worse and it didn't help that we went to Epcot and rode that space one and Body Wars. First, how old is that?(Body Wars.) And how stupid could we be? That will give you motion sickness even if you aren't already sick. I wasn't sure who was gonna throw up first.
Needless to say, the worst was over for me. I had to drive home, because he would get dizzy after driving for awhile. And I think when we got home, for the first time, Joel said he needed to go to the hospital because his fever wouldn't go down.
Looking back, I wouldn't change any of it. The being sick, nothing.
I love you more today than I loved you yesterday, Joel. Thank you for asking me on this day 6 years ago to marry you. If you asked again, I would say yes again.
XOXO

Tubes are in!

2009-12-09T11:48:00.003-05:00

In the waiting room, listening to Santa sing "Run Run Rudolph". (Like 15 times.)

Adrian with his gown on.
Gown and sockies on. He was trying to push buttons on the machine. The nurse had taken his heart rate with it and he was trying to make it do it again.

This was on the way home. Sitting back, just chillin.

This morning Joel and I took Adrian to have the tubes put in his ears. Had to be there at 6:30. I was a little worried about how he would do with nothing to eat or drink, but it was no problem. Actually he was really good. I was really surprised he didn't pitch a fit when the nurse can to get him. Plus it was a male nurse with his mask on. He looked at this guy and then at us, but then the nurse took him out before he had a chance to loose it. They came to get me, (Joel had to leave for work like 10 mins. before they called.) maybe 20 mins. later. They had warned us that he would be very cranky for 30 mins. after. And he was. They had a heart monitor strapped to his big toe, and this was totally pissing him off. He was trying to roll out of my arms, wiggle any way he could, to get his foot up, then when he did, he was trying to pull the sock off. Which he did manage to get it off once, but the nurse was quicker than him and put it back on. He started to calm down and rest his head on my shoulder, then he would remember the monitor and he was mad again. But he was cool before we left. He sat in the car, relaxing, watching cars and looking for "bups". (Buses.)
Now he's laying down. But he was playing with toys and dancing to music on TV. He'll have to see the doctor in 2 weeks, but other than that- so far, so good. (Hoping we've see the last of ear infections for him.)

An update.

2009-12-03T21:43:00.003-05:00

Last week on Friday morning I had to take Adrian to the doctor's for a recheck on his ears. It would be a month after his last ear infection, and they wanted to see if there was still fluid. Well, there was. The doctor said it was time to see the ear, nose and throat doctor. He's had fluid in his ears since Aug. So on Wednesday morning, off to the ENT we went. And yup, he needs tubes. He's having the surgery next Wednesday morning. They said he should be in and out in about 2 hours, that's including recovery. I'm happy that this will help his little ears, but still worried. I keep hearing from other parents that it's no big deal, and I do believe them. But still.
He has to go to his doctor on Tuesday just for a check before to make sure everything is okey dokey.
I'll post how he's doing after we get back.

Turkey Day 2009

2009-12-03T20:43:00.009-05:00

Din din.

Getting it all ready.

Adrian and AJ.

Yes, Alan is on Adrian's toy. Oreo's trying to figure out what the hell he's doing.

Marsel is Eunice's shoes. He couldn't walk in them to save his life.(And watching him try, I thought that I never realized they were THAT hard.) He was just sliding his feet along the floor.

Mom and Baby Marcel.

AJ, Marsel and Adrian.

Adrian and AJ.

AJ and Marsel.

Eunice and Marcel.

This is Marsel having a small fit when he realized that he was going to have to eat more than just turkey and bread. I'm such and awful mom, making him SOME of his veggies.

Grandma and Adrian. (Now it's Adrian's turn: He wanted to wear Daylen's shoes.)

Adrian and Marcel loving each other. So sweet. This will totally embarrass them later.

He did a little better than Marcel, but then he had flats.

Alan and Marcel.

Dominick.

Caridad, Daylen, Adrian, me, Dominick, Eunice, Marcel and Mom.

On Saturday waiting for Marsel to come home.

Marsel spent the night with Marcel Sr. and Eunice. So I Adrian and I were waiting outside for them while Joel put in our new washer and dryer. (A much needed washer and dryer.)

He had knocked over Joel's fertilizing cart and was telling me about it.

Baby Marcel showing his skills.

Adrian and his skills.

Such a ham.

Adrian likes to play with the dogs food. He crawled right in with Krypto and closed the door. Joel and I stood there and watched him. Knowing that Krypto was probably taking a crap, probably moving as close to the corner away from Adrian as he could. He's so retarded.

At the Park

2009-12-03T19:38:00.003-05:00

Me chasing Adrian. He thinks this is SO funny.

(I don't.)

The slides were making his hair stand up. It straightened his curls right out. The they bounced back.

CJ and I took Adrian to the park, in hopes of wearing him out. It work. His little head would pop off if it wasn't attached. There is so many this in the park for the kids. He really has no idea where to go first. And when he gets to something he wants to go some where else. Which means I end up doing a lot of walking after him. And he thinks he can do things that he really can't just yet. Like climb a ladder to get up the slide. He actually gets mad when I try and help. Guess I should get used to it. It probably won't change. But it's cool seeing him do new things.

Marsel's 8th birthday

2009-12-03T18:50:00.004-05:00

So I'm a little behind on this. Marsel's birthday was Nov. 11, and we had his party on Nov. 14. And I'm just now getting around to putting up the pictures. Oops.

It turned out well, considering I had no idea how many people were coming. I only had 2 RSVPs before the party. I had 2 more people call the day of the party and some just showed up. (These were the kids from his school. All of our friends let us know they were coming.) Fortunately I had enough food. And thanks to CJ, we had enough cupcakes. :)

This is CJ and I at the end of the night, along with Krypto and Oreo. The chair is totally not big enough for all us, but that didn't stop us. I actually think I fell asleep shortly after Joel took this picture.

Kasandra after the party, on the way to Rooster's. Ummmm! Chicken wings.
Jose and his bad assedness. (Or so he thinks.) hee hee.

One of Marsel's many presents.

Baby Marcel.

Making a wish.

HOLY CRAP! THE KID IS 8!

Fisheating Creek

2009-11-09T14:21:00.004-05:00

Adrian and Marsel with their walking sticks.

Adrian and I went for a hike, and yes I took him in a stroller through the grass and dirt. Whatever works.

Adrian has found something new to do with mom: sit on me. This was inside the tent.

Marsel: wolf scout.

Joel and Marsel went camping with the cub scouts this weekend. It was close to Clewiston. Not too far from Lake Okeechobee. Adrian and I went and spent the day with them on Saturday. It was pretty cool. We walked around, hung out by the water, watched them fish. Adrian loved it. They saw an alligator in the moving before we got there. We saw and armadillo when we were hiking and the saw 2 owls at night. Joel and I were thinking about taking the boys camping sometime before the weather gets warm again.

Year and Half...Chillin at the Park with my Big Bro

2009-11-05T22:12:00.004-05:00

Adrian and Marsel playing together.

Big Man.
Watching BB.

I see you.

A year and Half today.

Today Adrian is a year and a half. He talks a bunch. (Didn't get that from his mama.) Doctor said that it looks like he's gonna be tall. He's in the 95 percentile. And he loves his BB. Where ever Marsel is, Adrian wants to be too. Kid has a temper too. He wants what he wants! It's cool, with the 2 of them.

Halloween '09

2009-11-05T21:42:00.005-05:00

Sunday before I went to work. Adrian enjoying some of his treats.

Adrian loving Oreo. I told him to love Oreo and give him kissies, and he did.

This is my pumpkin. I couldn't get a good shot of the back, but we carved little bats.

Eunice's pumpkin. Hers had a tail in the back.

Marsel: snake eye from G.I. Joe.

Adrian: our garden gnome

Baby Marcel, a very tired pumpkin.

Dominic, Thomas the Train.

Marcel Sr.

Eunice carving her pumpkin.

Mmmm, yummy!

Dominic, Adrian, Baby Marcel, Krypto and Oreo. (Krypto and Oreo were waiting for snacks to hit the floor.)

Marsel playing games in the a.m.

Adrian wearing his BB's hat. He put it on himself.

So silly.

Little Tadpole

2009-10-18T23:37:00.007-04:00

Right after he got in.

Walking to the pool.

You can hear me sniffing a little in 1 of them. Sorry about the camera moving around, I was trying to not cry.

He was doing everything she asked him, but crying. (Babe, you can hear him call Ana in one of them when he has his hands up.)

Wish you could have been there with me, you could have made fun of me when I was crying.

Krypto's channeling Misty May Treanor

2009-10-11T21:32:00.003-04:00

Marsel and Krypto where bouncing a balloon around. When you hear me screech at Marsel, that was because he was passing gas, but fortunately you can't hear it. But thanks to my big mouth, you now know.

More Pictures from Last Saturday

2009-10-10T11:47:00.002-04:00

Baby Marsel, AJ and Adrian.

Marsel, AJ and Adrian

Too Big For Mom and Dad

2009-10-10T11:08:00.005-04:00

Adrian drinking his milk while watching cartoons.

Marsel brushing his teeth. Has to be able to see the TV. (Notice the look.) This morning.

Just a short video of Adrian this morning. He was talking to me, and swiveled the chair around. Just thought he sounded cool.

It wasn't all that long ago that every morning Joel would go get Adrian up, and I would get his milk. Then he would come and lay in bed with us, maybe for like 5-10 mins. But he would lay there and chill. He would roll around a bit, want some lovin.

But that's behind us now. He's totally mobile now, so all that chillin with mom and dad is old news.

Sucks, we enjoyed it while it lasted. (We're reaching the point with Marsel that he doesn't want to be around us when ANYONE else is around. Guess that's how it goes.) Did I mention it sucks.

Stupid Kids!

2009-10-08T22:04:00.002-04:00

Today I ran to get Joel and I subs for lunch. Right when I turned into our neighborhood, there was a school bus dropping off kids, I think who were in high school. There was like 20-30 of them, all walking in the street. (BTW, my neighborhood has sidewalks on BOTH sides of the street. Although you wouldn't have thought so.) So I'm slowly creeping up behind them, because I need to get by. I didn't want to be a butt and honk at them, although that's what I wanted to do. So as I pass by, this kid throws his gum on my windshield. I stopped and put the window down and told him to get it off or I was calling the cops. (It kinda sounded stupid over gum. But I didn't want to touch it and he was just pissed because I was following them so close. WELL GET OUT OF THE ROAD!!! He took it off and then called me a bitch. I may be one, but oh well. And this all happened just before I turned down my street. And my house is the 4th one down, so I kept driving. I drove around the block a few times. I didn't want him to see where I was going. I don't need him coming back and messing with my car. I know that kids will be kids, but it's all the more reason why we would like to move out of here.

More Than I Thought

2009-10-05T20:59:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was my Grandfather's (on my Dad's side)90th birthday. My Aunt held a birthday party for him. They live in California, so I was unable to go. And the time leading up to the party I thought that I was ok with this. I believe he understands. Anyway. I called when I got home from work to tell him 3 things, 1. Happy Birthday 2. I love you. 3. Really wish I could have been there. Now my grandfather, Poppy, has never been a man for talking on the phone, more so as he has aged. So I knew when I called it would be short. I told him the things I wanted to, and he said he loved me too, and maybe for his next birthday I could be there. I almost couldn't say good-bye. I really hope he has some more birthdays in him, but it bothered more than I thought to think that maybe I've missed it.
Joel was very sweet when I came back into the living room, crying. When I told him why, he said that in a few months I could try and plan a trip to go visit.
Even as I write this I'm bothered. Love him so very much, I worry I haven't shown it.

Family Day

2009-10-03T22:53:00.006-04:00

Marsel reading People Magazine. (He has to stay up on current events.)

Adrian and AJ

Kasandra and Adrian

Kasandra, Adrian and Jose

Adrian, AJ and Kasandra

Marcel Sr. and dinner

Eunice and Marcel III

Adrian, Brianna and Dominick

Adrian

Brianna and Dominick

Marcel III and Adrian

Dominick trying to carry as many toys as he can. (He did have like 2 more before, all while being on the scooter.)

Brianna (the ham)

Baby Marcel

Marcel

Adrian and Marcel III playing. Adrian did pretty good with him.

Marcel III

Marcel and me.

Gaby, Marsel, AJ and Adrian

Today Joel's family came over. (His brothers and their families, his mom, Jose, Gaby and Kasandra. We grilled, and relaxed and chased the kids. It was a pretty good way to spend a Saturday. Too bad we don't get more time like this.

Mr. Cleaner Man

2009-10-02T09:16:00.002-04:00

Here's a video of Adrian sweeping. Sorry it's so long.

Vizcaya

2009-10-01T21:02:00.006-04:00

Biscanye Bay

On Monday Joel and I went to Vizcaya. It's in Coral Gables. It's a house and gardens that was built between 1914 and 1916. We went inside the house also, but we weren't allowed to take any photos. It was so beautiful. And it's crazy how big it is. Then we walked through the gardens, and down by the water. The pictures with the boat in them, are of a stone barge. It was built like that on purpose. Everything was built to look much older than it was. I was bugging the crap out of Joel as we walked through, because I kept saying, can we renew our vows here? He was like ya, sure. It's not cheap to have a wedding there. Anyway, it was beautiful. (Fre, like I told you, when you come to Florida, you have to take our picture there.)
After we left there, we went to the gun range. We both got to shoot our guns for the first time. It was pretty cool. And a very romantic way to spend our anniversary. (Our anniversary was last Thursday when Joel was still gone.) I loved it, it was great to spend time when Joel.
(BTW, I took that picture of the statue because as we walked by, I said to Joel, doesn't it look like he's wiping his butt?)

I need my diaper changed please...

2009-09-23T22:20:00.002-04:00

I went to get Adrian up in the morning and Oreo put his paws on the side of the crib to see him. The next thing I know Oreo jumps on top of the changing table and just sat there like it was no big thing. I swear he doesn't know he's a dog. And I won't tell him... My Moosie

This Past Saturday

2009-09-23T22:15:00.000-04:00

Making the Band...

2009-09-17T19:22:00.002-04:00

Missing You

2009-09-15T22:47:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to tell you that I miss you. I've been trying to busy myself, hoping the time will pass more quickly. So far that hasn't really worked. It just makes for a long day and I'm pooped. When I was driving home tonight, I was thinking about you walking through security at the airport, and what you were wearing. How I thought you looked good. Your hair cut, your red striped shirt, and shorts. And how tan your legs looked. I've always like your legs and your ankles. Such a funny thing to notice, but I do. Glad Adrian has your legs. The only thing good about you leaving, is you coming home. (Yeah, there's more, the whole training thing, I know.) But I'm ready for you to come home. Gonna stop here, getting a little teary eyed. :) Just know I miss you, and love you with everything I have.
I love you.

Labor Day

2009-09-08T11:20:00.004-04:00

Our Watermelon cake. No, I didn't make it.

Marsel after a dip in the pool.

Adrian checking himself out.

I think he was dancing here.

Krypto going nuts about Marsel being in the pool.

Marsel dancing.

This iguana was next door. It was pretty darn big. The lady next was feeding it and the ducks. Apparently they like bananas.

Wolf Scout

2009-09-02T19:50:00.001-04:00

I think he looks so cute in his cub scout uniform. He's a wolf now.

Go Jaws, Go...

2009-08-29T14:54:00.001-04:00

I was driving the other day and pulled up next to this lady. I watched her for a few seconds before I got my camera out. Man, was her jaw going! Mine got tired watching her. I didn't know a jaw could go that fast. Chomp, chomp, chomp, chomp.
I had the camera real low on the window so she didn't notice. I'm awful, huh?

The Iguana Hunter Did it Again...

2009-08-26T21:58:00.003-04:00

So I notice Oreo has something. How he got, I don't know. So I go outside to see if it's still alive. Now, mind you I have Adrian in my arms. So I'm sneaking up on this thing, like it's gonna get me. So a few mins. later Marsel comes in the house with his friend Aries. I asked if he would go see if it was still alive. Conclusion: dead. So he said he would get rid of it. He went inside and got the rubber gloves. He checked it out a little. He touched its little spiky things on its back, and said it felt rubbery. I said to him, honey you have on rubber gloves, it's gonna feel like rubber.
So he tells Aries to get the front, and he'll get the back. He's already holding it. Aries told him he wasn't picking up the head. So Marsel did it himself. He picked it up by the tail and started to swing it like it was a discus. Again, I'm standing there with Adrian in my arms. I had to tell him to cool it a min. I moved back, just in case he let go at the wrong time. I could just imagine him throwing this thing and it hitting me, like a ton of nasty bricks. Poor Adrian would have a heart attack, because I would have a heart attack. Adrian, by the way thought all of this was funny. Laughing at the boys. As for Oreo, he had to watch from the window as his treasure sunk to the bottom of the canal. (I'm just glad he didn't try to bring it into the house like he did with a duck once before.)
I'm still a little apprehensive about receiving kisses from Oreo. Iguana breath.

2nd Grader

2009-08-26T21:31:00.002-04:00

Suicide... Why?

2009-08-20T23:08:00.001-04:00

A friend of mine took his life last week. And I just don't get it. I guess I should be glad for that. I'm not in the frame of mind to get it.
I was upset by this. But the more I thought about it, the more it bothered me. I first felt shocked. Then I felt disbelief. Like it's not so. His phone number is still in my phone. We had made plans to work together. It can't be real. Then I felt mad, no pissed. How could he do this? How could he do this to his family? I believe this happened because he lost his brother to heart problems a few months back. So I was thinking of his mother. She just lost a son a few months ago, then to lose another. And her husband is sick with cancer. Which could have played a part in his decision to do this. I didn't cry when I found out, and still haven't. But when I would look at Marsel and Adrian and think about his mother, then I felt like crying. It was tearing me up. I slept like crap that night.
Now I'm better. I feel stupid saying that. Like this was about me. What I mean is that I'm not looking at the boys and thinking things that hurt a mom.
I don't know if what I feel is "right" when it comes to something like suicide, but it makes me mad. (I guess feelings aren't right or wrong, they just are.) I wasn't walking in his shoes, but why couldn't he ask for help. Like from a doctor? He had to know he was hurting, why didn't he just ask for help? He could have still be alive this week.
Your family is in my thoughts, Daniel. I'm mad at you right now, but that will pass.

Bling in the Mouth...

2009-08-20T00:00:00.003-04:00

Marsel went to the dentist today. And he came home with bling in the teeth!

Plantation Heritage Park

2009-08-16T21:35:00.009-04:00

Notice he's hair cut. He's like a pound lighter now.

Today mom and I took the boys to Plantation Heritage Park. My mom used to talk me there when I was little. I used to like to feed the ducks. In fact, that's what I called it, the duck pond- still do. (Maybe that's where Adrian gets his obsession with ducks from, is me.) Although there aren't many ducks there anymore. We only saw 2. On our way out, we saw a sign that said not to feed the wild life. I told my mom that's probably why there aren't any more ducks here. People stopped feeding them, so they said we're outta here.

It was a nice day. It was hot, of course, but there was a breeze. Probably from the storm off the coast. (Hurricanes and tropical storms always make the weather so nice before the make land fall.)

Adrian and his moo cow kiddie leash.

He was digging the little bit of freedom. (With a stick in his hand, just like his BB.[big bro])

Adrian and Grandma.

Grandma and the boys. And the cow.

I can't remember what the lip was for. Maybe something to do with the stick in his hand. Who knows.

Ducks and Auntie Kate

2009-08-13T23:28:00.003-04:00

Here are a couple from a couple of weekends ago. like 2, when Kate was here.

Adrian loves to be chased! And Auntie Kate caught him.

This was earlier the same morning. He was going after them, until he got to the grass.

He saw some ducks in the front yard. Notice he's on his tippy toes. He's serious about his "duhts".

Mr. Pisser

2009-08-10T19:40:00.002-04:00

Man, Adrian was a pisser tonight. I think it was because he was tired. He was fine in the car ride home. Talking up a storm. Playing with his cell phone. I told him to call Daddy. And he would yell "dada" with his tongue out. It's so funny when he does that. But as soon as we walked in the house and I put him down on the floor to go see Joel, he started with a fit. And to us it was for nothing. But something wasn't going the way he wanted. Joel was holding him and looking out the back window at the ducks while I got dinner ready. When I went to get him, I stood at the window for a min. Well, that wasn't long enough for him! He got so mad. So I get him to sit down to eat. (I've been trying to sit him in this little chair of Marsel's. Just trying to get him used to it. Besides he sits in a chair at school.) Anyway, I gave him the smallest bite of a french frie while I was getting the other food out for him. He ate some of the other stuff, but then he felt that he needed another frie. And I was just not working with him. He pitched the biggest fit! Then he wouldn't eat anything, didn't want his milk. I ended up taking him outside. (Ever since he was very little, like the first week we brought him home, whenever he was crying and we couldn't help him to stop, when we took him outside that would do the trick. Almost right away he'll stop crying. I don't know if it's because it's always warmer outside, or if it's different things to see. But whatever, it works.) And it worked today. I took him to the back yard to see all the ducks. He walked around, walked up to our fence and was trying to pet Krypto and Oreo from the outside. When we went back inside, I told him to find daddy. But he heard the boys in the other room playing video games, so he wanted to check them out. So I finally got him to go towards Joel. But then he saw Marsel's DS, and then he thought Marsel left it there for him. And then another fit in sued. I walked him into the office/his room where Joel was. I had to close the door because he was determined to go back for the game. He was standing on his tippy toes trying to open the doors. He doesn't know how to turn the knob, but he knows it's something like that.
After he was calm,(which was probably about 45 mins. later), Joel said to Adrian, "You see this?" Holding his hand out. "You're gonna get a lot of this on your cute bum when you get older." Joel said to me,"You know he's gonna be a pisser." I said,"Gonna be?"
Looks like he's got it down now.
I'm reading this book about children his age. On Becoming Pretoddler Wise. (I read the first one, Baby Wise. That one was how to get them on a good sleeping schedule. He was sleeping 12 hours by 3 months, so I guess they know what their talking about. Hoping it continues in this book.) So after this I feel like I need to run into the room, close the door and finish reading it.

Lord, help us do right by these 2 boys.

A Few of Adrian

2009-08-06T11:51:00.005-04:00

This is Adrian channeling his inner Flash dancer.
Here he was trying to tell me where the "duts" (ducks) were.

Stupid? Stupid? Is There A Stupid Here?

2009-07-28T09:55:00.003-04:00

Um, that would be me. Stupid right here. So Joel looked at my car and found nothing wrong. He and my mom's mechanic think that the engine shut off. Joel said he tried a bunch of stuff to try and make it happen again, and nothing. He checked belts, hoses, fluid and everything is just how it's suppose to be. He asked me if I tried to drive it after I pulled over. I didn't. I was afraid I would hit a light pole, a tree, another car or maybe drive into the canal. I felt I was lucky to have made it to the side of the road safely, I didn't want to chance that I wouldn't be able to do that again. I did turn it on and it started, but that was it. I mean, come on, how stupid. To know I spazzed, sat in the 90 degree sun, called mom and stressed her out, and wasted my money on tow truck for nothing. Ok, so that was "DUH!" moment.

Daddy's Little Helper

2009-07-26T21:09:00.002-04:00

Joel was at home with the boys today while I was at work, and vacuumed the house. He said Adrian was doing what Daddy did. He was following him around with his vacuum. (The one Auntie Kate gave him.) Joel said that when he would bend down to get under the tables and chairs, so would Adrian. That's what he's doing in the picture. Joel said the next time he's going to give him the real vacuum.

Umm...Here looks good, I guess...

2009-07-25T09:25:00.003-04:00

So this past week it was just me and the boys, Joel was out of town for a training class. On Wednesday, I got out of work a little early. I stopped at the store real quick, then was on my way to pick up Adrian and then Marsel. I was driving on I-595. (If you don't know 595, it's a pretty busy highway. And I was going with the heavy evening traffic.) So anyway, I get off at my exit and I had to make a right to go north. At this light, there is a dedicated right turn lane, so you don't have to stop at the light. So I start to slow down to make the turn, AND I have no breaks. Not freaking out at this point, I'm pumping them and not getting too much. So I'm coming up on the turn quick and I have to turn, AND then I have no steering. Still not completely freaking out. (I have no idea how I held it together!) I managed to turn the wheel enough to make it around the corner and not hit the light pole that was in front of me. And as I made the corner, I pulled the emergency break. (I was so totally impressed with my brain that it remembered that there was one. And I used it in time.) There is a canal that runs along the road here. So as soon as you go around the corner, you're on a bridge. Not a big one. Looking at it, it looks pretty much flat. You would never even notice the slight incline, unless that it if you're trying in vain to push your car, by yourself over it. Yeah that was me. I totally pissed the lady of in the car behind. But what could I do. Car wasn't going any where. So here I am pushing with everything I have. Which isn't a lot to begin with. I would get it to move ever so slightly, and then it would role right back. So like it 30 seconds I as sweating like I was running the Boston Marathon. (Yeah, right!) So cars are going around me and I'm still trying, getting absolutely no where. At this point, I'm pushing too hard to think about what to do next. So finally these 2 older guys pull over and help. They pushed it up so I was in a small emergency lane. So then I stop and start to think, ok now what. Joel is out of town. Even if he could leave now, it would take him 4 hours to get here. And really what is he going to do? I thought about my mom, but she was at work and it's not very close. So I was trying to think who else could I call? I sent a text message to co-worker who lives close to where I was to see if they could help. But no. I went through my entire phone book, trying to think of some one. And after Joel and Mom the 2 people I would have turned too, Chrissy and Kate don't live here. Both are farther away than Joel was. So I called my mom and she said she would pick up the boys and then get me. In the mean time, I'm sitting up a tree. Joel just happened to send me a text message. So I send back, "Stuck on Hiatus, Jeep broke." His reply was, "Ya right! You're kidding." And to that I said, "Why would I kid about this! Lost steering and breaks." So when he called after making sure I was ok, and hearing my whole story, he said to just call and have it towed. So I did. And it's been sitting in the drive since. I know God was co-pilot, for many reasons. 1.) It didn't happen 2 mins. before when I was still on 595. 2.) There wasn't a car in front of me. I think I would have totally freaked out then. 3.) And the boys weren't with me. Needless to say, I was wore out that night!
This was my view from under the tree. There's the Jeep to the right. I was sitting under a tree on one of the concrete barriers they use for constructions, it was turned on it's side, so I could sit with my feet up. And there were those orange plastic things preventing anyone from driving on the grass along side the canal. And you can kinda see the overpass for 595 in the back. You totally couldn't see me from the road.

You Think You Know Someone...

2009-07-20T09:26:00.005-04:00

(Just wanted to put a pretty picture up, since this is an unhappy post.)

What makes people do the things they do? Do they fully think through what they're about to do? Do they think about how it will effect everyone around them?

A couple we know have split up. And one of them just took off. Didn't say, "I'm leaving, I'm unhappy." Just left and didn't tell anyone until they were too far gone for anyone to do anything. Didn't say anything to their family, the children, no one.

So now the children and spouse left behind are left with a hole. They didn't get closure. Didn't get the chance to say anything. It's like someone died.

I think people can understand if you're unhappy, and wouldn't fault you for that. But there's a right way to handle things. Even if it's not the easiest way. This was a selfish way to leave things.

I'm not surprised that they are no longer together, they had ups and downs. I am surprised at how it went down. I feel like one of those stupid people you see on the news when some one has been killed. And the news station speaks to the family members of the person accused of the killing and how they always say there is no way they could have done this. It's wasn't them, there not that kind of person.

You think you know someone.

Step-ow...Step-ow...Step-ow...

2009-07-12T12:27:00.005-04:00

On Friday I went back to the gym for the first time in like year and half, maybe longer. It felt WONDERFUL! While I was there. I walked/jogged, (kinda) for 50 mins. I want to ease back in to it. I don't want to kill myself. You know that feeling when everything hurts. Places hurt that you didn't even know was a muscle. You know the hurt when it hurts to sit down on the toilet. You try to sit, but you can only get so far down, then you have to fall the rest of the way, and pray you have your butt over the toilet so you don't land on the floor. I think I would just stay there. And then the pain of getting back up. Yeah, I didn't want to do that just yet. I've done that before and it so sucks to work that way. I've gone to swat down to rub some one's feet and a moan escapes my lips before I can stop it. It's all quiet in the room and I'm yelping in pain. Not conducive to a relaxing massage. So anyway, I didn't hurt too bad. But I could feel it. And then I went back yesterday afternoon. I did the stair climber and tread mill. I would have liked to do a little more, but my shins were starting to hurt.
So I hurt a little, and if I can, I'll do it again tomorrow. I know in the near future I'm gonna have to start the machines and then the real pain comes. Maybe I can wear one of Adrian's diapers and then I won't have to do the falling to the toilet bit.

Happy Birthday Kate!

2009-07-11T13:20:00.004-04:00

Sorry we're not together to share your birthday. I hope you have a wonderful day. Feel any older? Love you.

A Few from Saturday

2009-07-10T17:55:00.005-04:00

Adrian and AJ.

My little mover.

This is a very short clip of Adrian walking. (Kate this is for you.) He got distracted in the bag.

Here We Go Again...

2009-07-08T09:45:00.002-04:00

Like 2 weeks ago Marsel got sick, a little cold. He's fine now. But Adrian got it. He's been up and down since this weekend. Last night he woke up around 10:30. Which isn't like him. And then he was making little noises all night long. He just sleep very well. So this morning I took him into the doctor. I wanted to have his ears checked. The ENT said if he got 1 more ear infection than he would need to have tubes put in. So he does have an ear infection, but he wants to wait another 8 days. I'm hoping that this will work, and he won't need the tubes.
I'll keep you posted.

Please Pray

2009-07-07T10:19:00.002-04:00

I found out this week that someone we know, their 16 month old daughter has cancer. I took it very hard, I think b/c she is so close to Adrian's age. I'm asking if you have a few mins. would you please say a prayer for her and her family. Pray that she's a fighter and becomes a Cancer Survivor.
And hug your kids a little tighter and longer tonight. I did.

Father's Day

2009-06-28T22:37:00.004-04:00

Jean, Natalie and Emily

Marsel, notice where he left his flip flops. So far away from the water. He actually ran out of them.

Hollywood Board Walk.

Mom, Adrian, Marsel, Me, Emily and Natalie.

This is the raft for Adrian.

Last Saturday we wen t to Hollywood Beach. This was for Father's Day. Our friends Jean and Silvia come with their daughters. It was such a beautiful day. But man was it HOT!

I was so beat by the time we left. He headed out about 4pm. Marsel spent the night at my mom's . He said that he needed some "Grandma Time". Joel and I took Adrian over to a friends house. They were having a grad/ going away party for their daughter. While we were there Adrian found his feet. All of a sudden he was walking all over the place.

Sunday I took the day off for Father's Day. We went and had brunch. AND THEN, we came home and took a nap. I live for naps! It was a good weekend.

Hoe you enjoyed it honey. Love you!

Happy 1st Birthday Tristan!

2009-06-25T23:41:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Tristan! (A day late.) We did this yesterday, but I didn't get around to posting it until tonight. Please tell Tristan sorry for me about my "nails on a chalk board" voice. Love you!

You'll Shoot Your Eye Out Kid...

2009-06-08T12:40:00.002-04:00

I so wish I had my camera for this. But I didn't. I was getting Adrian ready for school this morning. I had him on the changing table, changing his diaper. He has a bit of diaper rash, so I reach to get the cream from the basket. In the 2.3 seconds it took me to do this, Adrian peed on himself. And I missed the whole thing. I look back at him and he's squinting his eyes. His shirt is wet, his face is wet, and his hair is wet. I'm like what the heck just happened. It took me all of half a second to realize how he got that way. (I tell him all the time, Honey, I'm sorry your Mommy is so slow.) I couldn't help but laugh while I cleaned him up.
Then as I'm trying to get the diaper on his butt, he pees again. I was thinking I was in the all clear, he already peed, he won't do it again. Oops, I was wrong. Guess he showed me.
So for the rest of the morning, I was calling him Pee pee Man and he was laughing.

CJ Turned 29

2009-06-02T18:22:00.004-04:00

Adrian and Charlie fighting over the camera case.

Charlie wondering what the heck is going on. Why is this kid playing with MY stuff?

Todd, Chris and Charlie

Chris and her Mom.

my little elf.

Sitting in his big boy car seat.

Adrian and I went to visit Chrissy for her birthday. Here are a few pictures. Charlie and Adrian wore each other out! Chris said Charlie slept for so long after we left. Poor Charles Barkley. Love you, Chris.

Patiently Waiting

2009-06-02T18:16:00.003-04:00

This was this 1st week in the 1 year old room, waiting for breakfast. He sits like this every morning. Although he isn't always quiet while he's waiting. Sometimes the teacher just doesn't move quick enough for him.

The Verdict's In

2009-05-16T12:33:00.002-04:00

Took Adrian to the doctor's this morning. He has an ear infection. Not a surprise. This is like the 4-5 ear infection he has had. Anyway, already started the meds and hopefully within the next few days he will start to feel better.

The Best Part of the Today

2009-05-16T00:31:00.002-04:00

This morning I got up, got Adrian's milk ready. Laid there with him while he drank. Got him ready, got all his things together for school and to go over to my Mom's house. Joel and Marsel are camping at Markham Park with the Boy Scouts, so my Mom was going to watch him while I was at work. Adrian's day wasn't starting out the greatest. He's got a cold, I think. At first we thought maybe it was his teeth. He's getting one of the back teeth. But now it seems like more than just a tooth. I'll get to that. Anyway, he was sitting with Joel and then he went to get on the floor and he bumped his lip. It wasn't bad, enough that it brought the smallest amount of blood to the surface and made him cry. He recovered quickly. On the way to school, something happened between him and his pacifier. I'm not quite sure what, but he got pissed either at the paci or just took it out on the paci. He was yelling at it and then he looked at it and threw it at his feet. I think he got mad when it fell out of his mouth and it was just beyond his reach. And just as he would get it, it would slip farther. You get the picture.
So we're at school, he's sitting at the table, like a cool kid. (Oh, yeah, he's in the 1 year old room now. I wanted to post about it, but couldn't find the time.) The teacher takes out the pacifier and walks to get his breakfast. He started crying. It took a second for it to register that that was my kid crying. He was like, hey lady, you don't take something from my mouth without replacing it. Duh.
On to my day. I'm off to do some property inspections. I have Joel's truck, because my Jeep needs a new fan and it over heats. It's quite a pain in the butt. More than once I've had to pull over and wait 45 mins. +, or book it home. So not fun! Anyway, I get to this condo, get out, do my thing and get back in the truck. And it won't start. This is a joke, right? I just did something wrong, didn't turn it over all the way or something. Because I'm so mechanical. I try 1 more time and NOTHING. I think to myself, do I call Joel now or wait a few more mins. Crap, call Joel. He's gonna be so mad. I know he's gonna think, Chris, what the hell did you do?! And the answer I come up with, (Again this is all to myself.) I have no freaking idea. So I call Joel. And I was close. He first asked if I was kidding. Why would I kid about this? Have I got nothing better to do? And I'm such the practical joker. Anyway, he was working and he wasn't close. AND he wasn't in his work van, he had ridden with someone else. So a loooooong story, shorten. I sat for 2 hours. Exactly. Oh and when this all happened, it was raining. Joel wanted me to look under the hood and check this and that. Might as well have asked me to preform open heart surgery. I have no idea what I'm looking at. I knew where the battery was at, but wasn't sure if I could touch it. He got annoyed at me for this. But I didn't want to touch something and burn myself or cut a finger off. I ended up calling work, (massage) to say I wasn't coming in. I wasn't sure when Joel was coming and I didn't know if he would fix it in time.
Ok, so I'm sitting here, and it's raining on and off and I'm starving. I started to walk to a Wendy's which was .8 miles from me. Then Joel called and said he was coming. When he got there, he touched, I don't know what and it started right up. The guy he was with said to me, you didn't try it in awhile did you? I said no, Joel told me to leave it alone. So I did.
Ok, I've made this long enough. The rest of the day went like this, the boys leave, mom has Adrian. I clean the house some. Go next door to work. Finish at 10pm. Go to get Adrian. While was next door, my mom calls and said Adrian was not feeling good. I have to take him to the doctor in the morning. I spoke with the nurse and she told me a bunch of stuff to do until then.
Anyway, that was jist of my day. Now that I write it down, it doesn't seem so bad, but it doesn't feel that way.
Oh yeah, the best part of today is that it's over.

Made it Through.

2009-05-09T14:57:00.006-04:00

Tuesday, the 5th was Adrian's 1st birthday. It really has been the fastest year of my life. I asked Joel was it that it really went by fast or was it that he was changing so much that we were able to measure time more easily. Not such which. It doesn't seem so long ago that we brought him home. I am glad to be past the first few months, though. Glad to have a schedule with him.

He's talking up a storm now. He talks in the car while looking out the window. He yells at Marsel if he takes away something he wants. He doesn't have a problem letting us know he's mad. He's exploring everything. Of course he's drawn towards Krypto's and Oreo's cages and food dishes. He's already eaten some of Krypto's food. And he was playing in Oreo's water bowl today. He likes to play peek a boo. But not with your hands. He likes it when you hide behind a wall and pop out at him. He likes it when Marsel chases him or when I'm holding him and we chase Marsel. He just cracks up.

It's been a hell of a year. I'm always amazed how much I love him. How he's only been in my life for a short while, but what a hold he has on my heart.

Joel, thank you for giving me this wonderful gift! Thank you mom for all your help, like Tuesday nights, which are now known as Grandma and Adrian night. Kate, thank you for everything you have done - for loving our son the way you do.

Thank you Lord for our blessings.

Won't Be Long...

2009-05-03T22:14:00.002-04:00

Man did I make him mad. I put him down so I could get him milk and he started crying and turned toward me and came after me. So of course I had to do it like 4 more times. Poor thing, by the time he got his milk, he had tears rolling down his cheeks. But I have to admit, I got teary eyed watching him.