Amylovesfish

Xavier's Soccer Debut!

2011-09-24T11:09:00.000-04:00

Today was Xavier's first soccer game as a "Silver Lightening". The game was like magnet soccer but he had a lot of fun!

Mari's first day of 2nd Grade!

2011-09-06T11:22:00.001-04:00

Mari was excited to start school today! She has Sra. Gomez and Mrs. Gentner as teacher's this year.

Mariana, Lily and Mari

Xavier's First Day of Kindergarten!

2011-09-06T11:11:00.002-04:00

WOW where did the time go? It seems like yesterday we were just bringing him home from the hospital and today we dropped him off for his first day of kindergarten.

He was excited and ready to start school. He went right in and sat with his classmates and kissed us goodbye!

Xavier's "Mohawk"

2011-07-15T13:45:00.002-04:00

Xavier has been wanting a mohawk for a couple of weeks; however, he did not have enough hair. So today while I was getting my hair cut, he got a "mohawk". He LOVES it!!!

Mari's Softball Debut....finally!!!!

2011-04-30T22:18:00.000-04:00

After 2 weeks of games cancelled due to rain, the "Purple Dragons" finally got to play their first game today! The did REALLY well considering it is the first time playing for many of the girls.

Mari waiting to bat!

Mari's 1st time at bat! She swings......

and runs!

Mari on base! Her first position - shortstop! Shaking hands at the end of the game! Team Huddle! Team Picture Silly Team Picture!

White House Easter Egg Roll!

2011-04-25T23:27:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Deb, we were lucky enough to get tickets to go to the White House Easter Egg Roll! It was a once in a lifetime experience but I am not sure I would do it again!

First off it was 90 degrees and 100% humidity. Secondly it was soooo crowed and I felt like a sardine! And, thirdly we arrived at our designated time, 11:15 am and did not get on to the White House grounds until 12:40 pm!

Once inside the gate it wasn't so bad and we were glad we went.

Easter - 2011

2011-04-24T14:32:00.001-04:00

Easter at CWP

2011-04-14T15:17:00.004-04:00

Today was the Easter celebtration at CWP. The kids had to bring in a flower to make a "flower cross".

Easter Parade at CWP

2011-04-14T15:13:00.002-04:00

2011-04-14T15:11:00.001-04:00

Xavier's 1st T-Ball Game and Opening Day Ceremony

2011-04-09T19:55:00.012-04:00

Today was Xavier's first t-ball game and opening day for South County Little League. The day started off with a "Parade of Teams" at the Opening Day Ceremony. Congressman Jerry Connolly gave a speech and threw out the first pitch.

Later in the day Xavier had his 1st game against the Sandgnats. It was so cute to see them in action. When someone hit the ball it was a race to get to the ball and then it looked like were at a wrestling match!.

Xavier was the catcher and he loved putting all the gear on and getting down in the dirt; although he had trouble bending over to get the ball because the mask kept falling off.

The team carrying the "Hooks" sign during opening ceremony!

All the South County Little League Teams Board President and Congressman Connolly
Team Picture Saying the "Little League Pledge" before the start of the game. Xavier as the catcher. 1st tag out at home! Waiting to bat! 1st time at bat! On base and ready... to slide!!! Run Xavier Run! Silly boy! I am ready! HI Mom!! Team Huddle Shaking Hands after the game!
Xavier and his buddy Armand! Xavier and Chris talking about the game!

St. Patrick's Day 2011!

2011-03-17T10:04:00.004-04:00

The Leprechaun stopped by our house this morning and made a big mess! The rugs were turned over, cabinets were open, the table was rearranged, he opened our box of Lucky Charm's and Spilled in all over our counter trying to pour it into a bowl and he even turned the milk GREEN!!!

Lucky Charm's with GREEN milk!

Xavier enjoying his breakfast! Mari all in GREEN!
Mari and Xavier dressed in GREEN and ready for school!

"WACKY" Wednesday!!

2011-03-02T15:08:00.003-05:00

Today was "Wacky Wednesday" at Xavier's school in honor of Dr. Seuss's birthday! Xavier had a great time picking out what he was going to wear and I think he looks pretty WACKY!!!

Xavier looking "WACKY"

"WACKY" Friends!

My Little Cowboy!!

2011-02-28T19:15:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T22:46:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day to everyone - I hope yours was as good as ours was!

The kids were excited for their Valentine's party at school today and to hand out their Valentine's. We made home made Valentine's this year and they turned out adorable.

Mari's Heart Shaped Pizza! Xavier's Heart Shaped Pizza!

Here We Go Steelers - Here We Go!!!

2011-02-06T10:54:00.000-05:00

TWIN DAY or should I say TRIPLET DAY!

2011-02-04T10:52:00.000-05:00

It was TWIN DAY at Mari's school today; however, Lily, Libby and Mari decided to take it one step further and go as TRIPLETS!!

My baby girl is growing up too fast :(

2011-01-11T10:36:00.005-05:00

He steals my heart!

2011-01-08T10:34:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year's!!!

2011-01-01T10:23:00.001-05:00

We decided to stay at home this year for New Year's Eve. We ate, played games, had chocolate fondue and watched the ball drop of TV.

Mari and Xavier were doing great at staying up until midnight!
unitl about 11:50 pm when Xavier could not stay awake anymore....
It was a very relaxing evening ---- a great way to bring 2011!!!!

My little Seamstress!

2010-12-30T09:59:00.001-05:00

Mari really enjoys doing crafts and making things. She got a sewing maching for Christmas from Santa. Unfotunately mommy knows nothing about sewing, but thank God for Aunt Linda Patton!

Aunt Linda Patton came over one evening and helped Mari make a pillow and teach her a little bit about her new sewing machine. Mari LOVES it and made a very cute pillow for her brother as you can see in the pictures below!

Cutting the pattern!

Aunt Linda Patton showing her how the sewing machine works

Mari's first time sewing on her own! She is very serious about her work! The finished project - a pillow for Xavier!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-29T09:46:00.001-05:00

We spent Christmas in Pennsylvania visting time with family and friends. Mari and Xavier were super excited for Santa to arrive.

Mari's listed included a sewing machine, Taylor Swift CD, crafts and clothes.

Xavier's listed included Batman Batcave and all its accessories, bumblebee and optimus prime transformers, motocycles and everything he saw on TV the couple of weeks preceeding Christmas.

Pictures from Christmas morning:

Mari with her gifts from Santa! Xavier with his gifts from Santa!
Enjoying their bkes from Aunt Linda!

Christmas Pictures - 2010!!!

2010-12-24T10:32:00.000-05:00

The "donkey" who broke my heart!

2010-12-17T15:10:00.001-05:00

My conversation with Xavier in the car after school today:

Xavier: "Mommy, some girl broke my heart today"

Me: "Who broke your heart and why?"
...
Xavier: "The girl who was dressed as a donkey that I sat behind on the stage at the Christmas performance today"

Me: "Why did she break your heart?"

Xavier: "Because she moved her tail when I was touching it"

Videos from Santa.

2010-12-15T11:34:00.003-05:00

Mari's: (Click the link below to watch it)
http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/Jl--DeLhoZCMSqieMDaIrA

Xavier's: (Click the link below to watch it)
http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/watch/YnwUMIBcdSopd-TuQg5QCA

Breakfast with Santa!

2010-12-11T14:35:00.000-05:00

Mari's 1st Grade School Picture!

2010-11-15T12:50:00.002-05:00

Xavier's Preschool Picture!

2010-11-12T11:44:00.002-05:00

Happy 33rd Birthday Juan!

2010-11-03T21:30:00.000-04:00

Halloween 2010

2010-10-31T23:18:00.000-04:00

We had a great time Trick or Treating with our friends, Lily, Quinn, Tanner and Zack!

Xavier's Halloween Parade at CWP

2010-10-29T10:29:00.003-04:00

Today was Xavier's Halloween Parade at CWP. He took this very serious and did a great job and was a cutest policeman I ever saw!

My Policeman!

The entire class!

Happy FALL!!!!!

2010-10-26T11:04:00.003-04:00

Graves Mountain Apple Harvest Festival

2010-10-19T10:35:00.004-04:00

On Saturday we went to the Graves Mountain Apple Harvest Festival in Syria, Virginia with The Barry's. Graves Mountain is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains so the view was beautiful, the weather was picture perfect and a great time was had by all!

Playing on Hay Stacks

Playing in the Creek

Pretty!

Xavier and Lily playing in the rocks

Relaxing listening to music

Timmy, Mari and Juan

I love my COWBOY BOOTS!

2010-10-14T14:41:00.003-04:00

Today we stopped at the consignment store to look for a halloween costume (fireman). Well we had no luck finding a costume; however, we did find COWBOY BOOTS in Xavier's size!

He tried them on in the store and hasn't wanted to take them off since! I must say he is the cutest "cowboy" I have ever seen.

My Monkey!

2010-10-08T09:55:00.002-04:00

While at the playground today Xavier mastered the art of the monkey bars - he was so proud of himself!

Xavier's 4th Birthday!

2010-09-12T16:31:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was Xavier's 4th Birthday. We went to Port Discovery Children's Museum with Quinn, Tanner, Lily, and Krista and then we came back to our house where Zack, Javier and Iliana joined us for cake and ice cream! Here is a video from the day.

Xavier's First Day at CWP!

2010-09-09T11:04:00.005-04:00

A new chapter in Xavier's life began today as it was his first day of preschool at Christian Weekday Program (aka CWP). He was super excited to go and even more excited to carry his spiderman backpack!

Xavier all ready to go!

Xavier and his backpack

awwww where did the time go?

Lily and Xavier are in the same class!

Lily, Grandma Joan and Xavier

My brave boy!

I love the stain glass!

Xavier with his teachers - Mrs. Puddy and Ms. Gitlin

Our family!

2010-09-09T11:01:00.003-04:00

Xavier needed to have a family picture for school and we didn't have a recent one, so we had to take one quickly and I think it turned out pretty good!

Xavier's Last Day at La Escuelita!

2010-09-07T18:29:00.000-04:00

This morning I dropped Mari off to her first day at Kindergarten and this afternoon I picked Xavier up from his last day at La Escuelita Daycare!

Xavier has been with Ms. Lala and Ms. Zaida since he was 3 months old so you can only imagine the emotions I felt today as I said goodbye to them. They are like family to us and I am so happy they are part of Xavier's life.

Here are a few pictures I took before we left today:

Xavier, Ms. Zaida, Jake, Quinn, Kayla, Collin, Naomi, Donnie Lee and Jordan

Jake, Xavier, Collin, Quinn, Naomi and Kayla

BBF - Quinn & Xavier

Xavier and his first girlfriend, Naomi

Quinn, Mari and Naomi

Mari's first day of 1st Grade

2010-09-07T12:32:00.004-04:00

Today was Mari's first day of 1st Grade. She was very excited to go to school but was also concerned because there are 2 boys in her class that are trouble makers - LOL!

Katie's Last Day at La Escuelita

2010-08-27T18:17:00.000-04:00

Today was Katie's last day at La Escuelita Day Care. Xavier and Katie have been in day care together since Xavier was 3 months old and he was sad to see her go.

Katie and Xavier

Ms. Zaida and Katie

Quinn, Xavier, Katie, Kayla, Jordan and Tanner

MYRTLE BEACH VACATION - 2010

2010-08-22T09:48:00.004-04:00

Sun, Sun and more Sun! We spent the last 7 days at Myrtle Beach with my sister, my brother and his wife and daughter and had great time.

This was Mari and Xavier's first real trip to the beach and they loved it. Xavier went in the ocean with his clothes on as soon as we arrived and Mari soon followed.

The weather was great except for one over cast day. We were pool side by 8:30 am everyday and spent the entire day going between the swimming pool, the beach and the hot tub.

We ate out, watched fire works, went to Broadway on the Beach, rode rides, Mari got her hair wrapped, got tattoos, played at the arcade, ate ice cream, ate warm Krispy Creams (Mari and Xavier are now hooked), watched High School Musical 1, 2 and 3 with Aunt Linda and much more!

My camera was acting up and the pictures didn't come out that great but here are some of them:

Xavier and his buddies!

Mari and McKenna

Xavier in the "soft tub" (aka - hot tub that had warm water not hot water)

Mari getting her hair wrapped
Mari passed out!
Xavier passed out on the raft!
Our little lizard friend!

The Yachtsman where we stayed

Cinderella!

2010-08-13T11:14:00.005-04:00

Last night we went to see the play "Cinderella" with Mari's Daisy Girl Scout Troop. It was very good. To prove how good it was, Xavier sat mesmerized for the entire 2 hours! The girls were asked to dress up as princesses and Mari chose Princess Jasmine.

My "Princess Jasmine"

Back of Mari's HairIsn't she pretty???

Mari in her chariot

Mari, Cinderella and Krista

Krista, Prince Philip and Mari

All the Princesses!

The Cast

Weekend Recap!

2010-08-09T10:57:00.008-04:00

The weather was perfect so we spent a lot of time outdoors.

We celebrated Tanner's 1st birthday on Saturday afternoon at Lee and Ali's house.

The Birthday Boy!

Mari and Tanner enjoying the slide.

LilyKaren enjoying a glass of wine.

On Sunday we left the house at 8:30 am and got home at 8:30 pm! Mari, Xavier and I went to the 4-H Festival at Frying Pan Park while Juan went to help Lee build her shed.

At the 4-H Festival we watched horse shows, swine shows, cow milking, saw a lot of different animals, went on a tractor ride, made sand art, bought jewelry, listened to music (Calico Cloggers), ate shaved ice and rode carnival rides. It was a fun time.

A couple of our favorite Swines.

Blueberry Shaved Ice - yummmy.

Xavier on the tractor ride.Mari and Xavier on "Surf City"Xavier and Mari leading the group!

Mari is so brave and loves all the thrill rides including the one shown below "Super Shot". The "Super Shot" goes up a 100 foot tower and when it gets to the top it automatically drops you down! When I asked Mari if she liked it, she smiled and said "I thought my stomach was going to come out my mouth"!

Mari before the ride started.

Ride going up......

Ride still going up.....

Ride over!

Deb's 29th Birthday....

2010-08-06T10:49:00.000-04:00

We celebrated Deb's 29th Birthday at Pane E Vino restaurant last night. The food was great but the company was better.

The Birthday Girl!

Birthday Cake

Phyllis and Olivia

Elena and Xavier

My Prince!

2010-08-02T13:34:00.002-04:00

My Princess!

2010-08-02T13:32:00.003-04:00

Xavier's 1st Dentist Appointment

2010-07-30T09:15:00.004-04:00

Xavier had his first dentist appointment yesterday with Dr. Deyhar. He did great and had no cavities - YEAH!!!

I was a little worried how it would go because Xavier told me that when the Dr. asked him to open his mouth wide he was was going to stick out his tongue and make farting/spitting noises at him, and if you know Xavier this is something he would totally do! However, I was pleasantly surprised when he cooperated 100%. Xavier loved playing with the spit vacuum (aka - suction tube) which made him laugh uncontrollably.

The most exciting part of the visit was when Dr. Deyhar gave him a BLUE toothbrush and his very own travel size toothpaste!

Such a big boy!

Getting his teeth cleaned

Playing with the "spit vacuum"

Dr. Deyhar counting his teeth

STUPID STUDENT....

2010-07-29T12:32:00.003-04:00

Xavier got a certificate at school a couple of days ago and when I asked him about it, here was our conversation:

ME: Great job Xavier - what did you get a certificate for?

XAVIER: Because I was a"STUPID STUDENT" (said with a big smile) as he handed me the certificate to look at.

ME: Xavier it says "SUPER STUDENT" not "STUPID STUDENT" ...and mommy is very proud of you!

It took everything I had a hold back my laughter!!!!!!

Relaxing but FUN weekend!

2010-07-26T09:48:00.008-04:00

It was so hot on Saturday (110 degrees) that we decided to beat the heat by going bowling in the afternoon with Karen and Timmy.

Krista, Mari, Lily and Xavier
(sorry it is so dark but it is the best I got)

Xavier

Mari and Krista striking a pose!

Debbie, Elena, and Karen came over on Saturday evening for some girl time and we had a blast! After we had a few Caribbean Coconut Rum with Lime and Pineapple Juice we became "COUGARS Unleased".
On Sunday we hit swimming pool for a few hours. Mari had a great time jumping off the diving board while Xavier jumped off the side about a million times.

Another highlight of the weekend was the HOOTERS T-shirt from Daytona Beach that The Barry's brought Juan home from vacation. He loves it as you can see from the picture.

Looking forward to what next weekend brings!

Silver Diner Fun - 7/20/10

2010-07-21T10:58:00.009-04:00

We went to Silver Diner last night for Kid's Night and had a blast hanging out with Karen, Timmy and Lily and Lee, Ali, Quinn and Tanner.

Pony's to Go (petting zoo/pony rides) was there as well as Ms. Carol the fabulous face painter and Ben the Balloon Man!

The kids had a great time and didn't want to leave!

My precious butterfly!

The cutest Spiderman ever!

Bobo Brother's (AKA Spiderman Xavier and Batman Quinn)

Two Beautiful Butterflies - Lily and MaryMari and TannerTanner and his signature smile!Rufus my blow up boy toy!

Weekend Get-Away!!

2010-07-19T12:46:00.019-04:00

A weekend away was just what the doctor ordered! We decided to head to Southern MD and do some exploring.

Our first stop - CHESAPEAKE BEACH, MD

We spent most of the day at Chesapeake Waterpark. It was a lot of fun. Mari and Juan spent most of their time riding the slides while Xavier and I spent our time playing in the swallow part climbing on alligators, crabs and snakes and jumping in and out of the water falls! We all enjoyed relaxing together while riding on the lazy river.

Next Destination: NORTH BEACH, MD

After we got settled into the hotel and took showers we headed out to explore North Beach. It was quaint little town with cute little shops and a great ice cream shop! We walked on the pier and "people watched" and enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

Next Destination: SOLOMON'S ISLAND, MD

After a good night sleep we headed out to explore Solomon's Island. On our way there we got a flat tire, but we didn't let that stop us. Juan changed it and we are on our way.

Once we reached the island we drove around and enjoyed the scenery and found the Drum Hill Lighthouse. We went inside the light house, which was very interesting.

We are went to Calvert Marine Museum where we saw stingrays, starfish, turtles, crabs and various other fish. The kids also dug for fossils and shark teeth which they thought was very cool. They both found hammerhead sharks teeth that they got to bring home!

After the museum we took a one-hour boat cruise on the Patuxent River on the William B. Tennison that provided great view of Solomon's Island.

Mari and Xavier really enjoyed the boat ride and even got to drive the boat for a few a minutes.

Here are a few more pictures from our time at Solomon's Island:

Island's famous "Tiki Bar"
Juan & Xavier on the William B. Tennison
Governor Thomas Johnson BridgeMy Cute Pie
Mari posing with some local art work
Amy, Mari & Xavier on the Boardwalk
Juan, Mari & Xavier on the Boardwalk

We had a great time and made many fun family memories!

Family Fun Night at Pirate's Cove

2010-07-15T12:38:00.002-04:00

Last night we went to Family Fun Night at Pirate's Cove with the girls scouts! It was a great time catching up with my mommy friends while Mari and Xavier had a great time playing/swimming with friends!

4th of July!!

2010-07-07T12:25:00.001-04:00

We spent the 4th of July at my brother Randy's and SIL Sue's house. We went swimming and cooked sausage and hot dogs over the fire. The best part of the meal was making SMORES - yummmmm!!

Mari & Xavier LOVED the pool!

Mari trying on her new outfit from Uncle Butch & Aunt Linda

Xavier had a great time playing with the dogs!

Look how well behaved they are!

Here is a video of Mari and Xavier jumping in the pool, which Xavier must of done about 100+ time over the course of the day!

In the evening we went to my brother Mark's and SIL Karen's house to watch fireworks! A great day was had by all!!!

Xavier and Lily

2010-06-28T12:33:00.000-04:00

The Sweet Side

The Silly Side

Rocknoceros

2010-06-26T18:28:00.001-04:00

Today we went to Burke Lake Park for "Arts in the Park" and saw Rocknoceros. Mari and Xavier LOVE their music and we are now the proud owners of three of the their CD's.

Cordelia and Mari

Cordelia, Mari and Sam
Cordelia, Mari, and Xavier

Mari is offically a 1st Grader.....

2010-06-24T10:58:00.000-04:00

Today was a bittersweet day - Mari's last day of Kindergarten! I was full of emotions and even got teary eyed when I said goodbye to her teachers (Ms. Torrence and Mrs. Baer - we LOVE you both)!!!!

Mari LOVED kindergarten and has made many new friends that hopefully will grow into long lasting friendships!

Mari and Ms. Torrence

Mari and Mrs. Baer

Lily, Libby and Mari

Daisy's End Year Picnic

2010-06-22T14:01:00.000-04:00

Girl Scouts has come to end for this year. Mari has really enjoyed Girl Scouts and has made many great friends. Her troop had their end of the year picnic at Lake Accotink Park to celebrate all the fun we had over the past year!

Mari's 6th Birthday - Take 2

2010-06-13T12:37:00.001-04:00

We celebrated Mari's 6th birthday by having a pool party. Everyone had a splashing time!

The Cake

Group Shot #1

Group Shot #2

Mari and Abby

Mari and Bridget

Mari and Brooklyn

Mari and Cordelia

Mari and Josie

Mari and Libby

Mari and Lily

Mari and Odalys

Mari and Samantha

Mari, Quinn and Tanner

Everyone (look at Xavier)

Everyone (look at Xavier again!)

Let the games begin....

2010-06-11T09:25:00.007-04:00

Today is the day that Juan has been waiting for - the start of the 2010 FIFA World Cup!!! To show their support for Mexico, they wore their Mexico gear to school today!

Mari's 6th Birthday - Take 1

2010-06-10T14:10:00.000-04:00

We had a few friends over on Mari's actual birthday to celebrate her special day!

Ice Cream CakeMari and Krista

Xavier

Tanner
Tanner and Deb

Quinn enjoying his cake!

Mari, Krista, Xavier and Lily

Krista, Mari and Elena

Mari getting ready to make a wish!

Mari and her pogo stick!

My baby girl is 6!!!!

2010-06-09T09:49:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to the one who adds sunlight to my day and gives me happiness in her own sweet loving way. Happy 6th Birthday to my precious baby girl!

Horn in My Bum......

2010-06-09T09:47:00.001-04:00

A conversation Xavier and I had this morning:

X: Mama, I have a horn in my bum.

ME: WOW - you do?

X: Yes I do - and then proceeded to fart and laugh!

Pirate's Cove Waterpark

2010-06-01T13:33:00.003-04:00

Over the weekend we went to Pirate's Cove Waterpark and had a great time!

Purple Dragons

2010-05-24T13:25:00.001-04:00

Top Row: Cassie, Kayla, Isabella, Imani and Mari
Bottom Rom: Jaime, Cristela, Ruth, Kani and Maddy

Our visit to see Tio Porfirio....

2010-04-26T09:58:00.006-04:00

Pictures from our visit at Tio Porfirio and Tia Luisa's over the weekend.

Genesis - 5 months!

Genesis after sucking on a lime!

Juan and Genesis

Amy and Genesis

Aranza, Mari and Xavier

Isabel

Aranza and Mari

Xavier and Aranza ready for the World Cup

Mari Soccer - 2010

2010-04-25T10:09:00.001-04:00

My "Purple Dragon".....

Can I wear my high heels?

How about one cleat and one high heel?

Okay I am ready!!

Luke and Nikki's Engagement Annoucement

2010-04-22T13:22:00.003-04:00

Mr. and Mrs. Nick Nardone of Ellwood City are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Domenique Nicole to Lucas Allan Rawding.

He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Herb Rawding of Chippewa Township.

Domenique is a 2006 graduate of Gannon University. She currently works as a nurse in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. Lucas is a 2006 graduate of Slippery Rock University. He currently works in sales for Allegheny Petroleum.

The couple will be married on May 7, 2011 at Queen of Heaven Roman Catholic Church in Koppel.

Silver Diner Kid's Night

2010-04-21T14:12:00.006-04:00

We had a great time last night at Silver Diner's Kid's Night. The petting zoo/pony rides were there. There were 16 of us that showed up and it was great to catch up with some "old" friends and their children.

Mari Riding "Cookie"

Xavier Riding "Cookie"

Xavier takes riding seriously

Mari and Xavier petting the chicken

Mari being brave holding a chicken (this a 1st)

Mari, Josie, Krista and Trevor

The best picture out of about 10 pictures of Xavier and Quinn (aka "Bobo Brothers")

Mi Hijo!

2010-04-06T14:24:00.005-04:00

Breakfast Fun!

2010-02-06T12:12:00.001-05:00

This morning I decided to make breakfast fun and cut Mari and Xavier's names out of pancakes and they LOVED it!

Family fun in the snow!!!

2010-02-01T10:52:00.000-05:00

We had another small (6") snow storm on Saturday, so we took advantage of it to go sledding, build a snowman and make snow angles!

My Princess

2010-01-29T11:11:00.000-05:00

IPODS

2010-01-22T09:22:00.005-05:00

My sister got Mari and Xavier each an Ipod (or an MP3 player) for Christmas and last night I finally uploaded music onto it. Mari and Xavier LOVED them. They each put theirs on a sang and danced until it was time for bed. Xavier wanted to sleep with his but I told him he couldn't. He went to bed and got up about 25 minutes later and said "Mama, can I listen to Mamma Mia one more time?" I could not resist his cuteness and I said yes.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-23T12:58:00.004-05:00

BLIZZARD OF 2009

2009-12-21T12:19:00.004-05:00

Snow, snow, and more snow! It started snowing on Friday evening around 8:00 pm and continued to snow until about 9:00 pm on Saturday! We got about 21" of snow, which was measured by Juan going out on our deck in only a shorts and a t-shirt to measure!

When Xavier woke up on Saturday morning he looked out the window and his eyes got wide and he said "Mama, Santa is getting ready to come".

Mari and Xavier could not wait to get outside to play in the snow - so out we went. They played in the snow while Juan shoveled the sidewalks.

On Sunday afternoon we went sledding with our friends in the neighborhood! The kids had a blast and didn't want to come in despite the fact that they were freezing.

Hailey, Lily and Xavier Sledding

Xavier making a path

Mari stuck in the snow

Xavier knee deep in snow

Xavier sledding

Lily, Mari and Hailey sledding

My snow angel

Mari and Hailey taking a hot chocolate break

Message from Santa to Xavier

2009-12-12T05:08:00.003-05:00

Santa sent this special Christmas message to Xavier:

http://portablenorthpole.tv/watch/c784ceed51dc2680191b1dc41146332a

Message from Santa to Mari

2009-12-12T04:56:00.000-05:00

Santa sent Mari this special Christmas Message:

http://portablenorthpole.tv/watch/0237c6838c1b3c64e915fe8e60bbaa29

Mari and Xavier

2009-11-17T13:53:00.003-05:00

I liked this picture of Mari and Xavier so I thought I would share it.

Xavier asks to have gel in his hair almost daily because he tells us the "girls like me when I gel my hair!"

It's Official....

2009-11-13T21:39:00.005-05:00

Xavier is a true Rawding!

On Wednesday evening he was having trouble going to bed and kept coming to our room because he had to pee, needed a kiss, etc. The last trip to our room he came in asked me to "pull his finger". Without thinking I pulled his finger and he farted!!!

Fast forward to tonight. I had a couple of friends over and the kids started to dance. Mari and her friend Krista were shaking theirs butts so Xavier decided he would join in. He started shaking his butt and much to my surprise he decided to "moon" us while he was shaking his butt.

On both occasions I tried not to laugh, but was unsuccessful. My only regret is that I didn't have the video recorder going or I could possibly be $10,000.00 richer!!!!

Halloween - 2009

2009-11-04T09:19:00.003-05:00

Big Boy Undies

2009-09-29T14:58:00.003-04:00

We have been working with Xavier on potty training (FINALLY) and he is in love with his spiderman undies! Isn't this is the cutest spidey bum you have ever seen, or am I biased?

OUCH.....

2009-09-29T14:53:00.003-04:00

Mari was walking down the front steps last night with her hands full and lost her footing and fell. She did not want to drop what she had in her hands and landed on her face.

Boy + Crane = Happy Boy!!!!

2009-09-28T15:43:00.004-04:00

On Saturday morning I took Xavier to see the crane where Juan was working. When he saw his daddy and the crane his eyes got as big as silver dollars! We spent about an hour watching his daddy load materials on the roof - Xavier was in heaven. Xavier LOVES heavy machinery and would of stayed all day if I would of let him. Here are some pictures for your viewing pleasure:

Pretty in PINK...

2009-09-12T11:47:00.000-04:00

Mari had her first soccer game today and of all the colors available her team got PINK!!! Today was her first soccer game and she did pretty good but needs to be a little more aggressive. She had a lot of fun and seems to love the sport of soccer. Below are some pictures of my "LADY TIGER":

3 is the magic number

2009-09-11T12:02:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday to the light of my life!

A New Chapter Begins - Kindergarten...

2009-09-08T09:27:00.001-04:00

She started school this morning, and she seemed so very small
As I waited here beside her in the kindergarten hall
And as she took her place beside the others in her class,
I realized how too soon those first few years can pass.

Remembering that I saw her as she first began to walk,
The words that we sounded out when she began to talk.
This little girl is much absorbed in learning how to write
It seems that she must have grown into girlhood overnight!

My eyes were blurred, but hastily I brushed the tears away.
Lest by some word or sign of mine I mar this big first day.
Oh, how I longed to stay with her and hold her by the hand,
To lead her through the places that she may not understand.

And something closely kin to fear was mingled with my pride.
I knew she'd no longer be the baby at my side.
But she must have a chance to live, to work her problems out;
The privilege to grow and learn what life is all about.
And I must share my little girl with friends at home and play.
She's not a baby anymore, Mari started school today.
(Author Unknown)

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

2009-08-17T13:40:00.017-04:00

To beat the high temperatures and humidity, we went to the National Museum of Natural History on Saturday. I think it was meant to be because we got a parking spot directly across from the entrance to the museum (which is unheard of in D.C.). Also we arrived just as they were opening up for the day! The kids had a great time and really enjoyed everything they saw. We definitely need to start taking advantage of living 15 minutes from Washington, DC.

Baby Tanner...

2009-08-14T15:56:00.005-04:00

Baby Tanner is home and came to visit us this morning! Big Brother Quinn was so happy to meet him and the kids fought over who would hold him first (Quinn won hands downs). I have to admit that for a split second when I held him that I got the urge to have another baby (don't worry the urge went away quickly when I thought about all the sleepless nights - LOL). Enjoy some of the pictures we took this morning...

Big Brother Quinn and Tanner

Xavier, Mari, Quinn and Tanner

Mari and Tanner

Xavier and Tanner

My Myers-Briggs Personality Type is........

2009-08-12T08:55:00.004-04:00

ESFP (Extraversion, Sensing, Feeling, Perception)

You are outgoing, friendly, and accepting. You are an exuberant lover of life, people, and material comforts. You enjoy working with others to make things happen. You bring common sense and a realistic approach to your work, and make work fun. You are flexible and spontaneous, and adapt readily to new people and environments. You learn best by trying a new skill with other people. Famous people with your same ESFP personality include: Saint Mark the Apostle, Dale Evans, Bob Hope, Goldie Hawn, Arsenio Hall, Mary Lou Retton and Kathy Lee Gifford.

My husband and my best friend.....

2009-08-10T09:28:00.001-04:00

Forever friends...

2009-08-07T09:11:00.000-04:00

A Trip Down Memory Lane - Thanks Ivan!!!

2009-07-30T09:23:00.005-04:00

Ivan from Xavier's daycare made this for me - THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE MEMORIES!

Bob the Builder!!!

2009-07-28T11:03:00.006-04:00

We went to the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh while visiting Beaver Falls in the beginning of July. They had a "Bob the Builder" exhibit and Xavier was in 7th heaven!

Mari and Xavier posing with Bob the Builder and Pilchard

Xavier on his favorite vehicle - "Muck"

Mari with Bob the Builder and Pilchard on "Scrambler"

Mari and Xavier playing in the messy "Animated Earth" exhibit!

Fun Filled Weeked!

2009-07-27T12:46:00.015-04:00

We spent most of our weekend outdoors close to water since it was HOT HOT HOT!

Friday evening, we had several friends over and ordered pizza and the kids played in the pool until almost dark!

Saturday morning we met Beth, Trevor, Tyler, Deb and Krista at "Fantasy Playground"! This place was amazing and the kids had a blast!

To cool off, we headed to the sprinkler park; which the kids LOVED!

When we got home from the sprinkler park, the kids relaxed for a couple of hours and then headed outside to swim in the pool. They both love the water and are both dare devils! Xavier is always the last one to get out of the pool.

The next item on our agenda was to hand/foot paint the table clothes for Ali's baby shower brunch. Lee and Ali (our neighbors) thought it would be a great idea to have Mari, Xavier and their son Quinn, get artistic and decorate the table clothes using their hands and feet. Let me just say the kids were heaven and the table clothes turned out great, even though I am not sure who got more paint - the kids or the table clothes (LOL)!!

Sunday was the baby shower brunch for Ali. The food was yummy, the mimosas were flowing and the kids once again hung out in the pool! We watched the USA vs. Mexico soccer game and let me just say Juan is one happy man. Mexico beat the USA 5 - 0! After dinner, we spent most of the evening outside, watching the kids play while hanging out with some good friends!

Awwwww I love the weekends!

JK Wedding Entrance Dance - Hilarious!!

2009-07-25T15:50:00.000-04:00

My Kiddos!

2009-07-16T09:12:00.003-04:00

Xavier's New Love....

2009-07-14T10:07:00.005-04:00

B A S E B A L L!! While we were in Pennsylvania we got the opportunity to see Ben play baseball several times and now Xavier thinks he is he "Ben Rawding" and walks around saying "go Ben" -- "no batter" -- "strike one"!

P.S. - Xavier would sleep in his helmet if we would let him!!

And one of Mari copying her brother...

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-06T09:11:00.000-04:00

The "Bobo Brothers" Play Dress-up

2009-06-29T09:02:00.003-04:00