Enter the World of Farina...dun, dun, dun

Happy 30th Birthday Dustin!!!

2009-04-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

For your birthday I wanted to take you on a trip...down Memory Lane. I dug through lots of old albums and scanned tons of pictures. I hope you enjoy your trip... You and Riley in late 1990. Where's the beach??

Christmas 1990. We were thrilled about the bikes...not so much the helmets.

Visiting the Clark's in American Fork, UT

Look who's 12! April 1991

Good times in the indoor/outdoor pool!

Check us all out in Idaho, waiting for the parade.

Halloween 1991 at the Montoya's. We LOVED going Trick or Treating with the Montoya's!

Christmas 1991

Aren't we so cute?!

You gotta love Dustin's troll doll in the pocket!

April 11, 1992 in Idaho

Dustin and I riding a quad at Mark and Verla Darrington's. So much fun!

Another visit with the Clark's April 17, 1992

All of us cousins at Grandma and Grandpa's July 20, 1992(...I was obviously having a no-good-very-bad-day!)

Halloween 1992 at the Montoya's again!

November 1992

December 1992, Disneyland

Christmas 1992 at Grandma and Grandpa's

Who doesn't love a puffy paint sweatshirt?? Honestly!

Visiting the Garrard's in Las Vegas (before we lived here). We were on that trampoline from morning to night when we visited!

Easter 1993

Grandma and Grandpa's June 1993

Huntington Beach, June 1993

Christmas 1993

One of my favorites! Tyler, Dustin, and I always had a good time playing in the bonus room!

Easter 1994. Check out Riley's face!

June 1994 at Grandma and Grandpa's

Hanging out with Brandon and Morgan in San Elijo, camping at the beach. Summer 1994

Time to leave!

Hanging out at the Taylor's in Idaho, with Brandon and Morgan.

November 1994

Christmas time at Disneyland, 1994

Fast forward to... The whole family at Disneyland in December 1995.

Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa's 1995

Another one of my fav's! Crazy water fight. We lived in Vegas now. June 1996

Dustin and I goofing around.

Sibling love...haha!

Our little drummer boy!

Dustin and Leah exchanging mints, June 1998. So cute!

Dustin and a very little Madison!

Dustin being Dustin.

Dustin, Leah, Madison, and Riley at Disneyland, I'm guessing summer of 1998.

Dustin and Leah camping at the beach. Hubba, hubba! haha!

Another one of my fav's (okay, so I have a lot of favorite's!)

Check out this guy! Camping at the beach, July 1999, just DAYS before Karley would be born!

This is a great example of one of Dustin's stances. Another one would be when he folds his arms and tucks his hands in his pits. haha

Dustin taking a nap with a very new baby Karley...SO PRECIOUS!!!

Fast forward to today and look at what a beautiful family you have and what a wonderful man you've become!!! Dustin, you are such a great father, husband, and brother!!! I have so many fun memeories of our childhood and I love making new ones with our little families. I hope you have a VERY HAPPY 30TH BIRTHDAY, YOU DESERVE IT!!! Love you bro!!!

P.S. And you know if I had the money I would totally buy you a sweet drumset for your big day!

7 years ago today...

2009-03-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

Frankie and I tied the knot! I can't believe it's been 7 years already! I'm so thankful for Frankie. I love watching him playing with our boys. I love that we still laugh so hard that we are sore. I love that he puts up with my craziness. I love that he works his butt off for our family so we can have all the things we want. I love his dedication to our little family. I LOVE YOU FRANKIE!!! HAPPY 7TH ANNIVERSARY!!!
I thought I'd throw in some pictures from the big day. I don't love the pictures we had professionally done, so I only put a few on here. And the other pictures were taken before digital camera's were all the rage, so that explains the quality.

I now pronounce you husband and wife! I love this picture. We're laughing because I put his ring on the wrong finger! Hey, he gave me the wrong hand...so I blame him! haha!

This is my little Bradley. Wasn't he so handsome?! He had just turned 1. And Frankie was lookin' hott himself!

Another one of Bradley in his little tux. Aaaawww!

My Grandma and Grandpa Darrington...I love them soooo much!

This is my parents with the Clark's. They came all the way from Utah so Larry could marry Frankie and I. I love these guys!

This is just a random shot of my relatives, but I love it none the less.

I love my cousin's Bryan and Amanda!

We share our anniversary with my Aunt Lisa and Uncle Kurt, so we surprised them by playing their wedding song so they could dance together. So cute!

Hey ladies!!! All these lovely ladies are related to me!

My Grandpa, (a very tiny) Madison, and myself were gettin' our groove on! Darin was observing from the sidelines.

My Aunt Julie and my cousin Brandon...aaawww mother and son dance!

Morgan, Garrett, and Brandon just chillin' watching all of us gettin' crazy on the dance floor.

My Grandpa and I were dancing to a slow song when No Doubt's Hey Baby came on. Do you think we were going to stop dancing?? Heck no! That's when we really started shakin' it! My Grandpa's got some moves!

Brandon and I sharing a dance.

No cake fights at my wedding! Frankie knew the consequences...haha!

I love, love, love this picture of my dad with Bradley! Soooo cute!

There was A LOT of dancing at my wedding, but when us ladies had a little dance circle Dustin couldn't help himself. He got in the middle and let loose! That was THE BEST! It's still talked about to this day.

She's got legs! Frankie getting my garter. Naughty boy!

I LOVE YOU FRANKIE!!! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

The Happiest Place on Earth

2009-03-11T20:48:00.000-07:00

At the end of February we were so excited to be going to Disneyland for the boys' birthdays. Wouldn't you know right before we left Landon ended up with croup. He hadn't been sick for a long time, so of course he had to get sick right before we were leaving. We weren't going to let it slow us down, and we headed out for our 3 days of Disneyland. Landon likes to play Bradley's GameBoy and calls it his "DS". That along with a few movies and we were there!

We only went to Disneyland for the last half of the day when we got to town. Landon was doing the whole bark-cough that comes with croup and it was driving me crazy. I felt SO bad for him.

After going on lots of rides we headed back to our hotel. Here's Landon playing his "DS" in bed while Brad watched.

He played until he just couldn't play anymore! Isn't this precious?!

My favorite part of our hotel was the balcony with the cool view of Disneyland at night. So once the boys were in bed Frankie and I would go out there and relax together. Frankie was wearing the robe that the hotel provided...so hott. Oh and I have to mention El Juapo (I probably spelled that wrong, but it's a Three Amigos reference). I kept calling Frankie El Juapo because he forgot to trim him 'stache before the trip so he sported this super thick one! We got a lot of laughs out of it. Good thing Frankie's a good sport!

Day 2 started at California Adventure. We went on Woody's 3D ride for the first time and LOVED it!!! And another one we never even knew was there is Soaring Over California- totally cool!

Landon was telling Frankie something really important on Heimlich's ride.

I rode with the monkeys on Casey Jr.

Landon was NOT happy about being the passenger...

...He wanted to drive! And Bradley was nice enough not to fight him for it.

We always take a picture in front of White Rabbit's door. I love these boys!

Knock, knock Mr. Rabbit!

On to day 3. We started out in California Adventure again. We love the little thing with Crush from Finding Nemo. If you've never done it, you HAVE to. It is so funny and cute. My boys were practicing their UFC moves while we waited.

I got them to stop long enough for a quick smile...and isn't it cute??

Landon really liked the Carousel. Can you tell??

Bradley and I went up into Tarzan's tree house while Frankie took Landon on the Jungle Cruise for the 100th time.

I LOOOOVE this picture of Frankie and Landon on It's a Small World.

And I loooove this picture of Bradley. He looks so old to me.

We had a really fun trip. I love Disneyland so much! Since I'm from Anaheim I was very fortunate as a child to go all the time. I think that's why I have such a connection to the Happiest Place on Earth. Just the smell alone puts me in a good mood. We got onto everything multiple times and didn't have to wait long. We did notice that it was busier than it usually is this time of year and that's because of the free admission on your birthday. Anyway, Landon was much better by the last day in the park. But then on the day we were coming home, I woke up with a fever! I'm all better now though. We also got to go visit my Grandparents which is always fun. But I'm bummed that I forgot to take a picture of them with the boys. Darn! Next time.

My Baby is 2!

2009-03-03T22:02:00.000-08:00

Landon turned 2 on February 21st. It's hard to believe it's been 2 years since he joined our family. We are so glad to have him! I thought I'd write some things about my 2 year old.

-He LOVES his big brother! He does everything Bradley does (good and bad).

-He says everything (good and bad).

-Toy Story 2 and Shrek 2 are his favorite movies right now and he watches them over and over. Thank goodness I like them too or I might go crazy.

-He sings the Rhianna song Disturbia, "Bom bom bee dom bom bom bee dom bom..." and it cracks me up.

-He thinks he's really cool when he has his hands in his pockets.

-He's got killer dance moves. Seriously.

-He sleeps in a big boy bed now and thinks he is SO COOL. But that's 'cause he is.

-He goes pee on the potty and has even done #2 a couple of times.

-He loves tattoos. He's always got some on him.

-He loves to go to the gym playroom. And they love him. After being there for 2 hours we get in the car and he says, "Lets go gym, Mom."

-He loves his new black and white checkered Vans that we got him for his birthday and even will take naps with them on. He'll ask you, "Like uh my new shoes??"

-He is as stubborn as they come.

-He's got a temper. Watch out!

-He loves it when we read books in his Buzz Lightyear tent.

-He loves horses so we drive by and let him say Hi.

-He only naps for once a day for an hour and a half- bummer for me.

-He's the craziest, sweetest, most lovable little chunk of love!!!

He is such a special edition to our family. We couldn't imagine life without this little fellow. He keeps us entertained and on our toes. Happy 2nd Birthday Landon!!!

Landon Matthew Farina February 21,2007 Fresh out of the oven!
I had to throw this in here. Bradley was so excited!

Here's the little guido in a wife beater, hands in his pockets ('cause that's cool), tats, doin' a little dance. That's Landon.

Toopid Mow-on

2009-02-16T20:26:00.001-08:00

Today I was watching Landon playing with some Spiderman and Sandman action figures in the playroom. He was making them fight. Then I heard him say to Sandman, "You bad guy. You toopid mow-on." If you can't figure out what that means, he said stupid moron. I couldn't help but laugh to myself because I'm totally guilty of him learning that phrase. That's because when I'm driving I say that a lot to all the toopid mow-on's that drive on the Vegas streets. This boy does not miss a beat. He keeps me on my toes constantly. As much as he runs me ragged, I'm glad he's not a boring kid. He definitely does not lack in the personality department.
Here's some pics of the little guy. This is him trying to drink the last of the yogurt.

Oh, I love the look on his face in this picture. He was vewy sewious about the yogurt situation. And I love that there's a ring of yogurt on his face.

Update

2009-02-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I've posted anything new. (I think I start every post with that sentence.) So I'll just give a little update of what's been going on.
- Bradley is almost done with basketball- thank goodness. I'm glad he's trying new things, but I'm excited for baseball to start. And the 9am games every Saturday are cramping my style.
- Landon is going to turn 2 in a few weeks and I can't believe it. He is such a big boy. It just doesn't seem like it's been two years since he became a part of the family.
- Tomorrow I turn 27. I'm officially going to be in my "late 20's". I don't know how I feel about it. It's weird for sure. I don't feel like I've been out of high school for almost 9 years.
- I've lost 24 lbs. since November! It's been a lot of hard work, but so worth it. I look at going to the gym as a job. I don't make excuses not to go, I just do it. I LOVE the way I feel after an intense workout! I'm kind of addicted. I still want/need to lose more so I'll keep you posted.
- We're going on a Disneyland trip at the end of the month and I can't wait!!! We LOVE D-land!!! Landon will be able to enjoy it a lot more this year. He is OBSESSED with Buzz, Woody, BullsEye and anything Toy Story, so he's going to LOVE those rides. Let the countdown begin!
- I told you last fall that Frankie was 2nd in wine sales just before the Napa trip, but at the end of the year he was #1 baby! He sold over $80,000 in wine! I'll cheers to that! He also had the most covers (meaning he waited on the most people last year). He doesn't mess around, yo! At the Christmas party at his restaurant almost every (you know there's some haters, sippin' on that Hatorade) bus boy, kitchen worker, and other waiter's had nothing but the best things to say about him. I'm so thankful to be married to such a hard worker.
- I don't think I ever posted about this, but a woman opened her car door into my driver door in Bradley's school parking lot A MONTH AGO, and I'm still waiting to hear if the "investigation" is complete. Yeah, it's being investigated because this woman LIED and said I ran into her door. Impossible! Anyway, I refuse to pay because I know it's not my fault, so I have to wait to see if they deem her at fault. Whatever happened to accountability?? Argh.

Well, that's the update for now. I'm sure I'm leaving things out.

Brotherly Love

2009-01-20T21:27:00.000-08:00

About 2 weeks ago we had just finished eating dinner and Bradley went and laid down on the couch. Landon got out of his high chair a few minutes later and walked over to where Brad was. Then Landon says to me, while pointing at Bradley (who had fallen asleep), "Mom, look uh Bradley. He s'eepin'..." Then in a sweet high pitched voice he says, "So coot (cute)." If that wasn't cute enough, then he climbs up next to him right in his face, and stares at Brad with his big blue eyes. He starts rubbing Brad's cheeks very soft and keeps whispering, "Bradley s'eepin'....so cute." It was SO STINKIN' PRECIOUS!!! You know I had to bust out my camera to catch the moment. Then he started hugging and kissing Brad.

Then he kept scooting closer and closer until he was practically on top of him.

Finally I had to remove him because he was trying to sit on top of him! This was definitely one of the cutest things ever! I showed Brad the pictures the next day and we got a good laugh out of it. These boys may fight, but at the end of the day they are each other's best buddy.

Belated Christmas Post

2009-01-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

It has taken me so long to finally post pictures of Christmas. I promise I won't write too much, but be prepared for lots of pictures. The ornament Bradley made for us. These are my favorite!

The grandkids (minus Scotty's cuteness) after Christmas Eve dinner at Dustin and Leah's. It was so yummy. Props to Leah for the delicious meal! Then we head over to my mom's to open presents.

The kids assist Grandpa in the huge task of passing out all the presents.

Landon and Scott having a pretty serious discussion.

Dustin and Leah (who celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary on New Year's Day, HAPPY 10TH ANNIVERSARY!!!)

Typical Tyler picture. Gotta love him. We all show love in different ways.

Riley eager to open her stuff.

I just told him to smile and this is what I got. What can I say, he's a man of many faces.

Another man of many faces. Brad loves Star Wars. (Notice our big, crackling fire in the background?? We were so warm and cozy! haha)

Grandma and Grandpa Great got Bradley a Yankee jersey for his Build A Bears. He has been wanting this for awhile, so he was so excited!

Does this lovely decorative hat look familiar to anyone?? It was a White Elephant gift at the Cousins Christmas Party and (due to its popularity) it reappeared on Christmas. My dad scored this beautiful work of art from Dustin and Leah. So funny!

My dad was nice enough to pass it around for everyone to try on.

Bradley loves Bakugans. I have no idea what you do with them, but he was so glad to get them.

Christina was Frankie's secret santa this year. She took these pictures at Yankee Stadium when they went in October and framed them for him. The pictures are SO cool. I think Frankie had "something in his eye" when he opened this. He really loves it.

Santa was clearly happy with the Pepsi we left out for him and left lots of loot for the boys!

Nothin' wrong with a little chocolate for breakfast on Christmas, right?? Landon's eating some candy that Santa left in his stocking, among the Christmas morning mess.

Bradley was SO excited to get his iPod shuffle from Santa! I love when he's singing along with it and I can hear what he thinks they are saying in the songs!

Landon (making another funny face) with his lovely stroller that Santa left for him.

Bradley and his beloved Star Wars gifts.

On Christmas we went to Frankie's sister, Tony's house. Here's Landon with his cousin Angelina.

JamiLynn (looking way too old) and Bradley

I hope that wasn't too long. It's so hard to narrow down all the cute pictures. Bottom line- we had a great Christmas!!!

Tagged!

2008-12-31T22:52:00.000-08:00

My best friend Amanda emailed this to me and I am tagging anyone who wants to, to post it as well. I know I still need to do a Christmas post. It's coming, I promise.
1. What is your occupation? Stay at home mom= housekeeper, referee, shoulder to cry on, Dr. Mom, laundry pro (or maybe Frankie just says that so he doesn't have to do it...hmmm..."But YOU do it so much better than ME."), chauffeur, and bill payer. You get the picture. Notice I didn't say chef! haha!
2. What color are your socks right now? no socks, just some sad feet that need some attention
3. What are you listening to right now? Bradley snoring (feel asleep in my bed), and the dryer. The job never ends.
4. What was the last thing that you ate? A steak salad from Cafe Rio...same as you Amanda!
5. Can you drive a stick shift? I have, but not very good
6. What color would you be, if you were a color? a pretty green
7. Last person you spoke to on the phone? my mom, but had to go because my kids don't allow me to have conversations on the phone. haha
8. Do you like the person who sent this to you? The most!
9. How old are you today? 26
10. Favorite drink? Hands down, Pepsi. The nectar of the Gods!
11. What is your favorite sport to watch? Baseball- Yankees Baby!!! Or any sport Bradley is playing.
12. Have you ever dyed your hair? What woman hasn't??
13. Pets? A fish, not a fan of pets...
14. Favorite food? My momma's chicken divan. It's a family favorite!
15. Last movie you watched in movie theater? I think Step Brothers. I can't really remember. I can't wait to see Mall Cop.
16. What do you do to vent anger? A long, drawn-out, play-by-play phone call to Amanda who always listens and makes me feel better for being crazy! haha!
17. What was your favorite toy as a child? I would have to say a Barbie that had a peach dress with a shimmery bodice. I think my moms still got it stored in the garage.
18. What is your favorite, fall or spring? That's a tough one. They are both my favorite. Fall because it's a break from the scorching heat of Summer. Spring because baseball starts.
19. Cherry or Blueberry? Cherry
20. Do you want your friends to do this too? Yeah!
21. Who is most likely to respond? Leah
22. Who is least likely to respond? hmmm...
23. When was the last time you cried? About 3 a.m. this morning when we couldn't get Landon back to sleep (he never does this!). It was more like a delirious whine "I just want to sleep..."
24. Who is the friend you've had the longest time that you are sending this to? Amanda! We're totally BFF's. Ask Bradley.
25. Favorite smell? Frankie before we go on a date. Bow-chicka-wow-wow!
26. Plain, cheese or spicy hamburgers? Everything is better with cheese! (I stole your answer Amanda because I couldn't agree more!)
27. Favorite Car? My Tahoe, it's big and sounds beefy! haha!
28. Number of keys on your key ring? 2- car, house
29. Number of years at your current job? Almost 8 years...crazy
30. Favorite day of the week? Thursday- Frankie is off and we get to hang out and play with the kids.
31. How many states have you lived in? 3- Utah, California, and Nevada
TAG YOU'RE IT!!!

Our Visit With Santa

2008-12-23T12:22:00.001-08:00

Every year we go to see Santa at the Meadows mall. Last year was Landon's first Christmas (almost 10 months old) and first time on Santa's lap. We stood in the long line watching parents and photographers painstakingly trying to get screaming kids to smile (it's fine for a minute or two, but come on guys- move it along). Not us. When it was finally our turn and we set Landon on his lap he totally freaked out. They started jingling bells and trying to make him smile, but I had to stop them. I said just take it. It's a memory, and a dang funny one if I do say so myself. So here's last years picture with Santa. I LOVE IT!!! So classic. Bradley looks so handsome and then there's this crazed, red faced little boy screaming. Fast forward to this year. Landon is now almost 22 months and knows who Santa is and will always point out anything "Santa" that he sees. He LOVES Santa as a matter of fact. So we headed to the mall to go see the famous Santa. The whole time we were in line he was amazed that the real Santa was there. He would yell, "I love you Santa!". Very cute. So when it was our turn to go see him Landon would not let go of Frankie to sit on his lap. Eventually we pried him off. He had the most concerned look on his face as he tried to squirm away. The workers said, "Don't worry. We'll get him to smile." And I said "NO, just take it!" So this is what we got his year. Look at Landon's eyebrow's!

Once again I love it! This will be added to the collection of pics from years past with Santa that I put out every year. It's so fun to see how much they change.

He's a Dancin' Fool

2008-12-02T22:10:00.000-08:00

I finally figured out how to upload videos! The boys and I always turn on the music channels and have dance parties. Here's Landon gettin' down in his flip flops. I love how half way through he gives Bradley (off camera) a big grin as if to say, "Yeah, you like my moves". Enjoy!

Why is it so hard...

2008-12-02T21:55:00.000-08:00

to find a baby doll stroller that isn't pink?? I wanted to get Landon a doll (or in his case, a Build-a-Bear) stroller. Everywhere I've gone all they have is pink or purple. I'm sorry, but little girls aren't the only ones who like to push around their stuffed animals/dolls! My father-in-law gave me a hard time about wanting to get him one. I don't think it's weird at all! He WILL be a dad someday. I thought for sure I'd find one at Toys R Us tonight. Nope. So guess what?? I gave in and got a black Maclaren doll stroller ...with raspberry pink trim. Ha! It was the best I could do!!! It is mostly black. I hope Frankie doesn't think I'm crazy! Whatever. Landon won't care and I know he'll love it. I also got him a miniature broom. He loves to use mine, but knocks everything down because it's so big. And I'm pretty sure he's getting a little dirt devil vacuum. Boys can sweep, vacuum, AND push stuffed animals around too damn it!!!

Random

2008-11-23T22:28:00.000-08:00

-Bradley's school had a 2 mile run last Saturday (since the Niketown 5k was cancelled) and it was SO much fun! My mom and Dustin came to run and my dad (who's suffering from MAJOR kidney stone issues) and Tyler (who just got his gallbladder removed) stayed with Scotty and Landon to cheer us on. I'm so glad everybody was there!!! Thanks guys! Oh, and I love this. The Thursday before the run the coach had a practice run for anyone who wanted to. So Brad and I went and while I was jogging this 5th grader started jogging next to me, we said Hi to each other. Then he says,"So...are you from the middle school?" HAHAHA! So I told him no and pointed out Brad. How freakin' funny is that??? He made my day!
-That night I went to a show at the House of Blues with Dustin, Leah, my mom, and Riley to see Face to Face!!! Gotta love some punk rock! We had such a good time. I had to pick up the boys from my sister-in-laws house who lives in Seven Hills, and while at a stop light I noticed a motorcycle cop behind me. Sure enough, when the light turned green his lights went on. Seriously, where did this you-know-what come from?? Anyway, he said I was doing 42 MPH in a 25 MPH. I thought it was 35, but he said AFTER the signal it's 35. Freakin' speed traps! Of course the prick couldn't let me off with a warning.
-Bradley just started basketball last week. We had to get him some basketball shoes and he chose some Shaq shoes. (Do ALL basketball shoes have to be so ugly??) He loves them and after he put them on he said "I bet any kid who has Shaq shoes has the spirit of Shaq with them to play good." Funny guy. Sounds like the movie Like Mike to me.
-Landon learned the 'B' word. You know, the one that rhymes with itch. He learned it from my niece on Frankie's side who's 3 and pretty much allowed to say it. When she says it, she gets laughs. So Landon (always looking to make people laugh) started saying it. I've tried everything from time out, to "NO NO", to ignoring it and he still continues to say it. While I'm shopping he will scream it and I die a little inside. Most people laugh and say they've been through it, but it doesn't help my pure embarrassment. Just today he was chasing me and said, "I get you...b!&ch!" It is funny, but I don't let him know that I think so. Ugh, kids DO say the darndest things.
-Almost 3 weeks ago I started going back to the gym and eating good and IT FEELS GREAT!!! I've already lost 12 pounds (you can tell me it's water weight, but I don't care either way- I'm still 12 pounds lighter). Can I get a What What?!?
-I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving! We don't get to go to California this year (whaa, whaa, whaaaaa!) and I'm bummed we're going to miss seeing everyone. We have to be fair and celebrate with the Farina's this year. Next year....
-I've already started Christmas shopping and boy does it feel good. I never intend to be a last minute shopper, but that's usually how it ends up.
-I just ordered the boys' sweaters for our Christmas card picture, now it's just getting that perfect shot....wish me luck!

Little Notes

2008-11-13T22:24:00.000-08:00

Tonight Bradley was supposed to be in bed, but kept stalling and saying that he wasn't tired (this happens often). He likes to stay up late, but then is a beast when I try and wake him up for school. Frankie and I were getting very frustrated with him. So finally at 10 he went in his room. Then he comes running in my room, throws this on the bed and runs back to his room. So cute! I can't resist when Brad wants to snuggle so you know I took him up on the offer. I figure I only have a few more years before he's not going to want to snuggle, so I better snuggle as much as I can.

Where did the time go?

2008-11-07T23:51:00.000-08:00

How did Bradley go from this: To this:

We got his school picture back the other day and I just couldn't stop looking at it. I know I've said this before, but I can't believe how fast Bradley is growing up! He's getting so old and changing so much. I love my Brad!

(Just in case you were curious, in the first picture Bradley was almost 9 months old.)

Halloween Festivities

2008-11-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

We had many Halloween festivities to attend, so be prepared for lots of pictures. First we went to Bradley's Fall Festival at his school. Then we went to Dustin and Leah's ward party. Then we had some friends come over to Trick or Treat.
Here's the boys ready to go to Kitty Ward ES for the Fall Festival. Bradley was dressed as Jango Fett from Star Wars. It was pretty funny because older boys and grown men would always comment on how cool his costume was.

Every year Bradley's kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Kaylor, has the booth where you can win a goldfish. And every year we come home with one. We love it! It's always the most popular booth.

Since Brad's basketball season starts soon he's got to start practicing.

Bradley with his teacher, Mrs. Poulson, at her booth. He loves his teacher!

When we came home Landon was putting on Brad's shoes (which he loves to do) and I had to get a picture of him with his tongue sticking out because that's what he does when he's concentrating. I could just bite his face!

Here they are at Dustin and Leah's ward party. Notice the two little monkey's in the front. Landon and Scotty were the two cutest monkey's I've ever seen!

These monkey's wouldn't stand still for a picture! Silly monkey's!

This was by FAR Landon's favorite part of the evening. Pony rides! I tried to kind of hold him while he was riding, but he kept pushing my hands away saying, "I do it!" So I let him. When the ponies would stop and he had to get off, it was a scary scene. He was NOT happy about it. In fact even when he would first get on the pony he would start yelling, "Come on ho-see (horsey)!" before everyone else was on. Yikes. Yeah, he really likes ho-see's!

Bradley doing his best "blue steel".

Okay, so we really procrastinated on getting our pumpkins this year. Yesterday (yes ON Halloween) we finally bought some! Frankie had to go to a few stores before he found any. He ended up buying some that were used for decoration in the grocery store. We had friends coming over so we only had about 45 minutes to carve. It was still SO much fun!!!

Frankie assisting Bradley (who didn't really need much assisting this year). Anyone notice Frankie's hair?? Wednesday night when Frankie came home from work I shaved it like Brad's and we surprised him the next morning. He thought it was so cool! Frankie bought what he thought was silver hair spray that he wanted me to spray his mohawk with. So I did and it was actually glitter!!! HAHAHA! The can was silver, so you can't totally blame him. I said, "That would look GREAT if you were dressed up like Hannah Montana!" So he had to run upstairs and wash it out. We had to shave it all one length before he headed to work today, and we almost forgot. That would've been hilarious!

Our friends Amanda and Dusty came with their kids Jersey and Cash. And our other friends Sylvie and Neil came with their kids Colby and Addison. We loved having them come over and celebrate Halloween with us!

Colby and Bradley trying to kill eachother.

Colby, Bradley, Landon and Addison (Colby's sis)

The kids Trick or Treating in our neighborhood.

Landon was a busy guy.

After going around our neighborhood we walked across the street and did Trunk or Treating. The little pink leopard is my best friends daughter (and Landon's girlfriend) Jersey. She is too cute! Her 4 week old brother, Cash, was sleeping soundly in his stroller.

Jersey and Landon right before he smacked her. She's totally in an abusive relationship. She didn't even cry though. She's one tough leopard!

I tried to get a picture of our Jack O Lantern's, but it's kind of blurry.

I hit up Target today to try and score some sweet 50% off Halloween stuff deals. And it was a successful trip! A lot of stuff was gone already (I went at 10 this morning- that's early for me) but there was still plenty to search through. Bradley scored this Obi Won Kenobi costume for the bargain price of $10. He likes to play in this stuff (I guess it's like boy dress up??) so he was thrilled. And I got lots of other Halloween decor.

I hope everyone had a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! I know we did!

I did it.

2008-10-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

I voted. I spent a lot of time on factcheck.org and read myself into an oblivion. I just wanted to sort out the propaganda and find the truth about what matters to me. After all that, I still didn't know who I was voting for. The whole drive to the polls I went back and forth. I had an anxiety attack while I was standing in line. WHO SHOULD I VOTE FOR?? I finally made a decision. But I still feel sick about it. I don't know if I voted for the right person. I've decided I'm keeping who I voted for to myself, at least for now. I don't want to explain why I voted the way I did. And I know either way, I'm going to dissapoint someone.
I just don't understand how anyone can really get behind either candidate and say Go McCain! or Go Obama! They both suck. They are vague on all the important issues, or at least the details. I swear if I hear any gloating about who won I'm going to puke. We're screwed either way. Ugh. I'm just glad I got it over with.

Who's That Girl??

2008-10-28T20:14:00.000-07:00

I found these pictures from a project that I did in High School. I'm not sure of how old I was in any of them. I'll have to ask my mom. This was obviously before I decided I'm not a dog lover.

I believe I was "running away" in this picture. I guess I wasn't in too much of a hurry since I stopped for this photo op. I was rockin' a lot of Mickey Mouse gear and some really rad boots. Who needs pants anyway?? I really knew how to throw an outfit together!

Here's me, Dustin, and Tyler at Disneyland. Check out my bowl cut!

At the beach with a cup full of shells. I had a lot of shells when I was little.

Me and my momma at Disneyland. We went there A LOT when I was a kid.

I told you. I'm totally going scan-crazy!!!

Flashback to 1997!

2008-10-25T22:56:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I can scan pictures. (Yeah I know, I'm slow.) So be prepared for lots of posts full of old, fuzzy, not centered photos.

This first flashback post is from July 1997 when we went camping at the beach at San Elijo.There's nothing better than waking up to this view, just a few steps away from your tent.

Julie, you'll enjoy this one. This is (from left to right) Morgan, Devon, and Brandon crashed out in the boy tent. There was always a "special" boy smell in there! haha!

Little Alexa, looking very adorable as always.

Riley striking a pose in a super cool neon bikini. I think she was 8 years old here.

Julie and my dad (with REALLY cool water shoes on) doing some reading at the beach.

Devon with, I think, Mark's surfboard.

Morg and Bran-flake chillin' at the picnic table. Looks like Morgan's got his $1 to spend at the camp store. My Grandpa always gave us grand kids $1 a day to get a treat. Can I get a Woop-Woop for some banana and bubble gum flavored shaved ice!?! We kept them busy at the camp store shavin' that ice! It was Jody's birthday, so everyone decorated the campsite with balloons and such.

Jody and Garrett walking up to her surprise party.

Here's Julie, Alexa, Tiny, Brandon and Grandma hanging out.

You'll have to blow this one up to see everyone in it. I could be wrong, but is that Nate with a PEPSI shirt on??? Hmmm.....I'm going to have to blow this one up and investigate!

"Morgan the Pimp" is what I have written on the back of this picture. Seriously. This guy has been a stud his whole life.

Brandon checking out the surf (or lack there of). Another life long stud.

That's Colby on the left hiding from my camera and Garrett giving me the "get outta here" look.

Here's Grandma, Julie, and Brandon doing some serious thinking.

Lisa with Chad hugging her legs and Cheyne in the background.

Little Cheyne making faces at me!

Here's baby Chad with either Alyssa or Heather.

Cheyne enjoying his shaved ice. What a cute smiley face!

Mark after he was out surfing.

Chad and Cheyne splashing around in the wet sand. This is too cute!

There's Colby, Jody, my dad, Julie, Lisa and Kurt getting their chat on.

I absolutely LOVE old pictures and could sit and look at old albums all day. There are more of these posts to come, so stay tuned.

Pictures...It's All I've Got

2008-10-21T21:52:00.000-07:00

I haven't really had much to blog about lately. But I do have a lot of cute pictures so I figured I would put them up. Enjoy! I was watching Kiersten and we had to pick up Bradley from school. She was really into The Wiggles and didn't want to look at me. But she did stop watching long enough to see what Landon was doing. Landon was SO excited to have his cousin with him. Can't you tell by that HUGE smile??

Landon likes to "help" Bradley with his homework. This particular night he was doing his math and Landon kept telling him, "Free (three), four." or "Four, fife (five)". What a helper!

Landon is obsessed with "gapes" (grapes). Anytime he sees them in the fridge he starts yelling for them as if he was going to die if he didn't get them.

My boys sharing some of my bomb guacamole.

We went to my dad's Fall Festival last Friday and had a blast! There was a DJ spinnin' some sweet jams and the kids were loving it! Scotty and Landon have some serious moves!!!

Bradley had to get in on the action too. Here he is doing the robot. What can I say, my boys were blessed with rhythm??

There was a "time out" booth where you can use tickets to get a sticker and whoever you tag with it has to go to "time out" for 2 minutes. You can tell my dad was THRILLED to be in "time out" for the 100th time that night. So Landon joined him. Seriously, my dad is a great sport. I think next year there should only be a half hour window to send Principal Darrington to time out so he doesn't spend the whole evening there!

Landon still gettin' down.

Angelina, Landon, and Scotty. I love the look on Landon's face. He did NOT want to be in his stroller.

Another reason my dad is a great principal (there are MANY reasons): the students got to throw pies at him! Bradley even got him twice, I think, but I didn't get a picture of it. You should've seen the line for this one! Notice his body language saying, "Bring it on!"

And they did! hahahahaha!

This is what he looked like when it was almost over.

After the festival we went over to my in laws. I came downstairs to this. I guess Frankie put Angelina's shirt on Landon and then she wanted to wear his shirt. I think it's hilarious! The headband is just an extra touch of fabulous-ness!

Bradley and I went to Creative Pottery (I think that's what it's called) and painted some ceramic pieces. We LOVE doing this, and hadn't done it in a long time. We had lots of fun spending time with each other.

Landon likes to be a big boy and use a fork by himself. And I enjoy watching. Sometimes it takes him awhile. It amazes me that he's always so patient. (I'm so not a patient person.)

Ta-da! He did it!

I told him to make a funny face and this is what I got.

So Bradley had to make a funny face too.

I'm sure that was super boring for some of you, but it's all I've got so....deal with it!

Random List

2008-10-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a long time due to nothing being blogworthy, so I'll just make a list of what's going on with me right now.

- Tomorrow is Bradley's picture day and I was already worried because he has 2 scratches on his face from Landon. They get wrestling and next thing you know Landon is squeezing Brad's face so hard he gets scratched up. We call him Scarface because seriously he always is scratched up from Landon. So I told him to be careful and don't give him the opportunity to scratch him. Instead of a scratch Landon smacked Bradley in the head with a go-go bike (motorcycle) and now he has a huge bruise/bump. Aargh! Of course this has to happen the night before picture day.

- Neither of my children ate their dinner tonight. That does not make me happy.

- I still don't have my Halloween decorations up. I love to decorate for Halloween with lights and webs and black lights, I just feel like it's snuck up on me this year.

- I am still undecided as far as who I am voting for. I'm actually so sick of all the political crap out there. I've done lots of research and I still don't like either candidate. But here's the funny thing. Bradley is a McCain supporter. I don't know how, or why but he's always talking about McCain and how he better win. I find this funny because I am not a supporter of either candidate so the fact that he is so into him is very funny to me. Yesterday on the way home I asked how school was. He said it was fine and then confessed that he got in trouble. I asked what for. He said they were waiting in line outside the bathroom and he started reading a pamphlet about McCain and Obama (I'm guessing aloud). And he got in trouble for it. He said, "What the heck?! I didn't even do anything wrong, I was just reading about McCain and Obama!"

- I have to get a wisdom tooth pulled tomorrow. Yuck. I hate the dentist, well not personally, he's really nice. I just hate having dental work done, and being numb. Wish me luck.

- The Project Runway finale is on tonight. Woop woop!

- My best friend Amanda just had her 2nd baby, Cash Austin, on Sept. 29th. He is SO STINKIN' CUTE!!! I got to see him in the hospital but a couple days later caught a cold and haven't been able to see him since. I'm DYING to go snuggle him!

- Frankie's off the next two days, yay! Maybe I'll get some decorating done??

- I'm totally obsessed with Cafe Rio. I have to go once a week or I think I might die!

- Landon is becoming such a big boy. One of his new thing's that he does lately is say, "Watch dis!" and does something funny. Watch dis, watch dis, that's what I hear all day. It's pretty dang cute.

- Landon peed on the potty! I'm sure it was just a lucky moment, but I made a big deal about it. Now he's always running to the bathroom yelling "Go potty, go potty!"

- Bradley is signed up for basketball. He's never played before, so this is new to us. He's really excited and hoping he'll be on his friend's team. He did really good at try outs. Frankie said he sunk his first free throw. We'll see how it goes.

- I helped out in Brad's class last week and loved it! I always wanted to be a elementary teacher so I love going and working with the kids. They are so cute!

So those are the random things going on around here. Hopefully I'll have something better to post about soon!

Mini Mohawk

2008-09-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

We went over to Tyler's tonight so we could use his clippers and shave the boys' hair. I gave Bradley the "Chuck Liddell" aka the mini mohawk. It's actually hard to see in this picture. It's very subtle, but I think the ladies are going to love it. After I had used a 2 on his whole head we decided we'd do the mohawk. Otherwise it would've been a bit longer.

Check out this tough guy. I wouldn't want to be caught in a dark alley with this guy! His Uncle Dustin should be very happy. He's wanted to give him a mohawk since he was born.

Extra's:

Bradley being a big dork. I definitely would NOT be scared to run into this guy in a dark alley. I'd kick shorty's butt!

Didn't you know pirates ride scooters?!? Aargh!

Best buddies! (Disclaimer: In case anyone thinks it's weird they tub together, fear not, Brad covers up his family jewels.)

I caught this cute little guy reading in his chair this morning.

Missing Frankie

2008-09-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

Frankie is in Napa again and I'm all alone. Well, the kids are here of course. This is Frankie's 3rd year going on the trip. At his work the top three wine sellers get to go on an all expense paid trip to Napa. The past two years he was 1st place, and this year he came in 2nd. He looks so forward to this, and by now has it in his head that he is going from early on in the year. They get to stay in a very exclusive place, I think on a vineyard, in a cottage. You can't even make reservations, you have to be invited. They are treated with lots of wine tasting, tours of different vineyards, and gourmet meals. I love that he gets to experience this. But I hate that I have to be alone at night! There's something about sleeping in bed alone that just doesn't feel right. Maybe I'll have Brad sleep in my bed.

Frankie left really early this morning and last night Bradley made him the cutest card and told me to sneak it into his suitcase (which was really hard because Frankie wouldn't leave the room for one second! I tried everything!). I did eventually get it in there though. And then Frankie wanted me to sneak a note into Brad's lunchbox. It was so funny! They both had the same idea! Then I found a note in my diaper bag from Frankie. I guess we're just cheesy like that!

I can't wait until he's home.

New Park!!!

2008-09-01T19:49:00.000-07:00

I was so excited when I got the flyer in the mail saying the 3rd phase of Centennial Hills Park was opening. Sometimes I wonder if I get more excited over parks than my kids. You have to admit they make some rad parks for kids now. So we had to go check it out. It is such a cool park! We showed up wanting to go in the water, but the sign said they were doing maintenance on it, so we explored the new playground. (It was working a couple of days before, but I guess they have to work out some kinks??) Landon just kissed the turtle, but I missed it by a second.

Here's the water park. It looks like fun! I hope they get it fixed so we can try it out before they shut it off until next summer.

There's a little trail that you can take and go up higher. Then the path leads to a gazebo where there's a 360 degree view of the whole park and then some. It's beautiful up there!

This is the view from the gazebo to the (a.k.a. the flower park) of Centennial Hills Park.

Here's the amphitheater. I can't wait to see what they'll have going on there.

Here's a view of the park from the gazebo. There's a walkway behind the equipment that branches off to each level of the park. I guess I forgot to get a picture of the park from the ground.

That's the water park again. I think I was enjoying the view too much and not really thinking of what I was taking pictures of.

Leah you're going to have to bring the kids. We'll hit up Cafe Rio and then head to the park! I'm trying to entice you, did it work?!?

So if you're a park lover like myself you'll have to check it out. We can't wait until the weather is nice so we can spend many hours there burning off all that little boy energy!

School's In Session!

2008-08-26T12:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Bradley's first day of 2nd grade. He would ask me during summer how much longer until school started, and then complain about not wanting to go back because "School's stupid." Then I'd try to explain how redundant that statement is. He really does like school, but after having fun all summer he didn't want to go back. As it got closer and closer to the first day he got more and more excited, thank goodness. And especially after last weeks Meet n Greet where he saw all his friends, he was definitely ready to go back. He laid out his outfit the night before. The next morning he woke me up and was all dressed and ready to go! It was so cute. I used to love the first day of school when I was a kid so I knew how excited he was.
Here he is all ready to go. I can't believe how big my Bradley is!

He has been SO excited to show off his new Yankee backpack! But he is not happy (and neither am I) that the Yankee lunchbox I ordered (in mid July- don't get me started) is on back order, so he had to use his lunchbox from last year. But no lunchbox on back order was going to ruin his 1st day!

He's growing up too fast!

Landon LOVES Bradley so much. He's going to be missing his best buddy!

Here he is about to walk in with his class.

He survived the first day of 2nd grade! He really likes his teacher and his class. He already has a crush on a girl! But ssshhhhh! Don't tell him I told you so or I'm in major trouble!

Flashback to...

Bradley's first day of 1st grade!

And his first day of kindergarten!!! It's crazy how time flies! He seems so grown up to me.

CREEPY!!!

2008-08-24T21:24:00.001-07:00

Yesterday while Landon was napping I took advantage of it and polished my toes. While I was doing so, Bradley ran into my bathroom and said,"Mom you've got to get downstairs and kill this spider in the bathroom!" He went on and on about how big it was and I told him to chill out. We've never really had a bug problem. The occasional earwig or a dead cockroach (totally gross). That's pretty much it. I majorly hate bugs, but I really thought he was being dramatic and it was probably a daddy long leg or something. So I take my time. I finish polishing my toes, let them dry and go down to check it out. This is what I walked in to see. Holy freakin' mother!!! I wish I could've seen my own face! I told Brad to get dad FAST! There was no way I was getting close to that bad boy! Frankie wouldn't come. He thought we were exaggerating. Finally, I convinced him to come check it out. He was like,"What in the.....?!" We didn't want to squish it- imagine all the funk that would squish out of it!

So we grabbed a plastic cup and Frankie scooped it and flushed it. Then I thought, is it going to climb back out of the toilet, like some super spider?? So I flushed some more. Thinking back I should've caught it in the cup and killed it with some rubbing alcohol so I can show the bug guy when he comes. I guess I'll just show him the picture. You know I was on the phone with them ASAP.

So seriously click on that close up and tell me you're not creeped out! I'm driving myself crazy because every tickle, every little black toy on the ground, is creeping me out! I think everything is a spider now.

My brother Tyler was over tonight and said it might be a brown recluse which is not a good thing. So now I'm even more freaked out! I have to convince Bradley (who's still creeped out) that every thing's fine, don't worry about it, while I'm still worried about it!

Hopefully that's the first and last spider we'll find in our house!!!

18 Months Old!

2008-08-20T22:58:00.001-07:00

My little Landon will be 18 months old tomorrow!!! I can't believe how fast the time has gone by. He is such a big boy now. There is no shortage of personality here! He makes so many faces and says the funniest things everyday. Today I was holding him and I started coughing and he leans in real close to my face and says real concerned, "K?..Mom, K?" SO CUTE! He just wanted to make sure I was okay. He definitely keeps me on my toes though. He is into EVERYTHING!!! My house is so childproofed it's kind of ridiculous, but with this monkey around it's a must. Just yesterday he climbed up the changing table in his room and laid down on top and I could tell what he was thinking, "Yeah, I just did that. What about it??"
Here are some recent pics of my little guy.

He thinks he's real cool when he sits on the drum stool (trying not to fall off the whole time) and gets crazy with the drums! We got the shirt he has on in San Clemente in one of the shops. It says Little Bruiser with a pair of brass knuckles. That's Landon in a nutshell- our Little Bruiser. We're training him for the octagon. haha.

He loves his cousin Scotty. He calls him "Cotty". We went up to Mt. Charleston and they were so busy in the dirt. I couldn't get either of them to stop and look at the camera. Scotty had a good system down scooping the dirt with his spoon then putting it in the bucket. Landon thought he had a good system down but the dirt would fall off his spoon before he could get it in the bucket. But bless his heart, he kept on scooping.

This is Landon dancing at Grandma Farina's with his new shoes on that he thinks are so cool. When I put them on him for the first time I asked him if he liked them and he said very enthusiastically "I like it!" And then danced around staring at his new kicks.

Checking out some pics and them trying to be slick getting into the drawer finding the stash of remotes that were hidden from him. Can't fool him. Doesn't he have a cute squat??

Cafe Rio just opened down the street from my house (Yummy!) so we went there to celebrate Tyler's birthday. Landon's trying to hook up Kiersten with some salad, but she wasn't going to miss out on this photo op. Check out those pig tails. So cute! Dustin, no one can top the gift you gave Ty! HAHAHA!

This is from today. We went to Brad's Meet 'n' Greet at his school so we could meet his teacher. He's got a bunch of friends in his class so he's excited. And I think his teacher is going to be great so I'm excited. Afterwards we went to McDonald's for an end of summer celebration(?) haha. I told Landon to make his mean face and of course Brad wouldn't miss out, and that's what I got! Funny boys!

We love our Landon. He makes us laugh everyday!

Let's Go Yankee's

2008-08-12T22:27:00.000-07:00

Last Friday we made a quick trip down to Anaheim for the Yankee/Angel game. We swapped Landon for my nephew Andrew and headed out in the late morning. We haven't taken the Altima on a trip yet, so instead of spending tons of money on gas for the Tahoe, we took the Altima and saved $$ big time on gas! It's the little things... Anyway we stopped by my Grandparents and had a good visit before heading off to meet my cousins for dinner before the game. Bradley with Grandma and Grandpa Darrington.

We're ready to go!

When we were all walking into the restaurant a fire truck was sitting out front and when Frankie, Andrew, and Bradley walked in front of it (I was behind them) the firefighter honked his (very loud) horn and showed us his Angels hat with a big grin on his face. They all jumped so bad! Then Frankie pointed to his NY tattoo. It was so funny!

Then to see us all sitting at one table half Yankee fans, half Angels fans was quite a site! Bradley made sure to make a crazy face in the pic.

My cousin Amanda and I at the game.

Andrew, Frankie, and Bradley looking so cute in their jerseys. I think there were more Yankee fans there, than Angel fans. Frankie started up the chant, "Let's go Yankee's!!!" And it got SO loud with our fellow fans joining in!!! Then an Angel fan tried the same thing and one other person chanted along with him! haha!

We had great seats. They were in right/center field and close to the wall.

That's my boyfriend (one of many on the team) Melky Cabrerra in center field. I was waving to him and I swear he was looking right at me. Ask Amanda she'll tell you! If you try to tell me otherwise, I just won't listen! haha!

From left to right- Juan (Amanda's boyfriend), my cousin Bryan, his wife Allyson, and Amanda.

The Yanks lost, but we still had so much fun! The weather was great and the company was FABULOUS! After the game we stood in the parking lot and chatted it up until all the cars were gone. What a fun group to go to the game with! We decided this would be a new tradition. Not the Angels winning part, just going to the game together!

No, your eyes aren't deceiving you. Bradley is wearing an Angels hat and holding an Angel bat. Poor kid looks confused with the Yankee's shirt on with that stuff. The red just doesn't look right on him. Since I am from Anaheim the Angels are my 2nd favorite team and I let him get that stuff more as souvenirs, than something he'll actually wear.

After staying the night at my Grandparents we headed out the next morning to come home. The boys were still exhausted.

We couldn't wait to see Landon! We missed him so much. He was so glad to see Bradley.

****Yankee haters need not comment!****

Smells Like Walmart

2008-08-04T20:28:00.000-07:00

Everyone that knows me, knows that I LOVE Target. I'm there at least once a week, but usually more than that. My Target is always clean, orderly, and the employees are always nice and knowledgeable. On rare (and I mean RARE) occasion I need to go to Walmart. Yes Walmart. Ugh. Just the thought makes me cringe.
I've been looking for a metal closet bracket (you know, the circle thingys that you screw into the wall that holds the pole up across your closet ) everywhere. I went to Home Depot- no luck. I tried Target- nothing. I had to go to Costco and right across the street is Walmart so I decided I'd try and see if they had the brackets. As we're getting out of the car Bradley says, "Walmart? I hate Walmart. They have toxic toys made with lead from China." (You know the commercial.) I explained that we weren't getting toys and it would be a quick trip. Just looking at the people walking around in Walmart with their Nascar jackets on or the mom beating her kids is enough to make you get back in your car and leave. (Okay, I didn't actually see anyone with a Nascar jacket or a mom beating her child, but you know what I'm sayin'.) Where do these people come from?? Not my neighborhood! Walmart is a magnet for freaks! The second we get in there you get a wiff of what smelled like trash cans. And it stunk throughout the entire store. This store is still relatively new- it isn't even a year old yet!!! I still don't know what the stench was. Anyway, you would think it would be a quick trip, I just need one thing, but you have to remember the staff at Walmart. The have got to be the stupidest people on the planet. I had to ask 4 different people where I could find the bracket. One guy wouldn't even help me, he said it wasn't his department! After explaining what I was looking for the 2nd time the lady took me to the curtains- she obviously didn't hear the word closet- I don't know who has curtains in their closet, but it can't be that many! So after making bizarre suggestions I just said I'd ask someone else. The last guy was the best. He totally was annoyed that I asked him for help and didn't hide it. Then he took his sweet time showing me rods and acting like he was looking. I could tell I wasn't getting anywhere so I politely said Thanks and practically ran out of there! My last resort was Lowe's. The guy took me right to them and I thought I was going to kiss him, I was so happy to finally have found what I was looking for!!! (If you're wondering why I didn't go to Lowe's sooner, it's out of the way and not near any other place I had to go to.)
So moral of the story- don't ask employees at Walmart for help finding something because it's like talking to wall. Oh yeah, and Walmart SUCKS!!!

A 7 Year Old's Thought on Cooties

2008-07-28T21:09:00.000-07:00

The other day when my friend Amanda asked Bradley if he had a crush on a girl he said,"No. Girls have cooties." Then he leaned over and asked me in my ear,"Mom, are cooties boobs?" I had to laugh! Good question though, huh. If that's the case, I'm dreading the day he's going to like cooties.

Chatter Bug

2008-07-26T20:11:00.000-07:00

Our little bruiser Landon is 17 months old now and has become our entertainment this summer. This kid is such a chatter bug! He likes to climb up on my lap with his big animal book, or Brown Bear Brown Bear (another one of his favorites). He likes to name the animals for me like el-phant, toe-tul (turtle), tigah, ducky, nake (snake), chilla (chinchilla), piggy, cows and froggy among other things. We just laugh at his little voice- it's just too cute!!! If I ask him where daddy is he says (with his eyebrows scrunched, and shoulders shrugged) "I n know!" (I don't know). It is the funniest thing ever! Pretty much anything we say, he says. Yeah, we need to really watch what we say now! Today he was mad Bradley took his football and he yelled,"Give it to me!" We couldn't help but totally laugh. If he wants me to follow him he says "Come on!" I always have a couple Dum Dums with me when I shop (thanks for the tip Leah!) just in case he wants to get crazy in the store. He loves "luckuh's" (suckers), so it always does the trick. My most favorite things that he says is "I love you!" or "Hug...kiss"! It's just too much!

But along with all this cuteness is the Curious George within. I do not remember Bradley getting into so many things and climbing so much. Landon can climb up onto our counter height kitchen chairs (and it drives me CRAZY!). He puts his foot on the little ledge near the bottom of the dishwasher to boost himself up and get his little chubby hand on the counter and grab whatever he can. He dangles from the pedistal sink in the bathroom downstairs with his feet climbing up the bottom and says,"Weee!". We keep the bedrooms and bathroom doors closed because he has a field day if he can get in. And now he's been able to open some doors a couple of times! Yikes! Just when I think I've got it Landon-proof, he figures out something else to get into.

We are eating up every minute of this little BIG mouth boy!

Memories...

2008-07-23T22:59:00.000-07:00

I've seen this on a bunch of blogs and thought I'd do it too.
Here is a fun little game...Leave a comment on my blog of a memory that you and I have had together. It doesn't matter if you've known me for a short time, or a long time, anything you remember! Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you, unless I already have!

Baldy Boys

2008-07-15T22:52:00.000-07:00

Dustin has been begging me since Bradley was a baby to shave his head. On Saturday he got his chance. Bradley wanted his head shaved so he would be like Frankie. We were at my mom's for Karley's B-Day party so I told him to bring his clippers and he got to work late in the evening. Here's Bradley before.

He looks so serious! That's such a Frankie face! He ran to the shower because he was "SO itchy".

When Bradley was done Dustin said "Get Landon over here!" I thought about it for a second and we scooted him over and the shaving began!

I had to take a picture of his mullet half way through! Isn't that hilarious?!

CHEESE!!! All done!!!

Here's my baldy boys! Don't they look so cute with their new 'do's?!?! I LOVE it! Bradley says he wants to keep it like this forever.

Newport Beach and San Clemente June 2008

2008-07-07T20:57:00.000-07:00

We went on our annual trip to Newport with my in laws and then camping at the beach in San Clemente with my family a couple weeks ago. I was very stressed because I had to pack for two totally different vacations and didn't think we'd be able to fit everything. It was silly that I stressed so much because everything fit with room to spare. We had so much fun on both trips! Lots of time at the beach and of course lots of laughs. I'm mad that I didn't take more pictures (usually I'm snapping away), but I guess I got enough. See everything fit like a glove! Frankie always makes fun of me because I won't let him pack the car. (I guess I'm a little controlling in that department.) I had to take a picture because I was so proud that everything fit.

Here's Bradley at the beach in Newport.

Landon doing some sand boarding! We were just asking him where his belly button was, that's why his cute little tummy is poking out. I wasn't sure if he'd hate the beach or love it. The last time we were there he was only 5 months old. Well he LOVED THE BEACH! It was so cute to watch him run to the water, roll around in the sand, pick up the seaweed check it out and say "Ew!". Chasing him back and forth got a little old, so hopefully next year he won't want to run quite as much. I think he consumed a lot of sand on the trip too. Who says a cracker covered in sand isn't good?? Sand is part of the food pyramid, right?!?

Checkin' out the waves with daddy.

My cute beach bums.

This is my FAVORITE picture of the boys!!! Bradley was walking Landon to the water. I LOVE IT! I already had it blown up to an 8x10 in black and white.

While we were in Newport we went to Knott's Berry Farm. We just went to Disneyland a few months ago, so we chose Knott's. Being from Anaheim I visited Knott's as a child plenty of times (not near as many times as D-Land), but let me tell you, it's NOT the same! We even went there 2 or 3 years ago and it wasn't as bad. It was so filthy with litter EVERYWHERE! We ate lunch at Lucy's Lunchbox and there were spiderwebs all over the windows, along with trash and food everywhere on the floors. Yuck! The staff sucked and were so rude, and safety was obviously not a concern at all for them! One of them even said "This isn't Disneyland." I couldn't have said it better myself. I think that will be my last trip to Knott's. (Whew! I think that was my first rant. Tyler, that was for you.)

Bradley and my niece Angelina.

My HOTT husband and Landon (trying to honk the horn).

We went on the Log Ride a bunch of times. There's JamiLynn, Bradley, Landon, Frankie, and Frank. No, Landon wasn't standing the whole time- this is the very end after the drop. He was diggin' it.

After we left the time share we went to Grandma and Grandpa Greats to visit and met up with Dustin and Leah who were staying there. Landon was having a great time with the tea set. He was really concentrating. Can't you tell by the serious pucker of his lips?? I didn't get a picture of the boys with Grandma and Grandpa and I'm mad because I try to do that whenever we see them.

After that we left with Dustin and Leah for my Aunt Suzie's (where my mom and Riley were staying) who had a yummy BBQ for us. My cousin Bryan and his wife Allyson (who I had never met- love her!) were there too. We had SO much fun talking and laughing! After that we headed down to San Clemente.

I forgot about bringing tubes to the beach, but luckily Leah remembered from last year. It's so fun for the kids! They just float and ride in on the waves.

Brad and Paige having lots of laughs together in the water.

When we were camping Lisa came up with Karsten and Gracie. It was so good to see them! All the kids love to sit around and tell stories. Bradley was sitting in the sun listening to one of Karsten's stories and I gave him my glasses. I think it's so cute how he's got his arms crossed and head tilted. What a stud.

Karsten brought his bike and very graciously let Brad (and others) ride it. Thanks again Karsten! Here's Bradley going on a "sweet jump"! That is my mom and Dustin and Leah's campsite in the background.

Landon likes to make a "mean" face, which we were trying to make him do, but he just kept smiling. He's quite the character.

Here's a view of where our campfires took place. Our tent is to the right and Julie, Grandma, and Chloe's tent isto the left. We were so, so, SO glad you guys came!!! We thought we were going to be all by our lonesome on our spot. Landon just loved Chloe. And he would call Julie "Judy". Very cute. Mark and Morgan came around too when they weren't working, but of course I didn't get a picture of them. I was so slacking! Mark, Frankie will always be your Donut Fairy! haha!

There's our big ol' tent! I love that tent. My parents gave it to us for our 6th anniversary this year. Thanks again! It was Fab-u-lous!!!
Here's baby Cannon! I have been dying to see him. He is such a cute baby! I could just eat him up!!! My mom got the cutest picture of Landon, Cannon, and Scotty. And then some more of the cousin's.
Landon and "Cotty" (that's what Landon calls him) having a really serious conversation about recent gas prices.
Both of the babies were squirming and didn't want to get their picture taken so I just snapped one real quick. I love how Brandon and Frankie are both probably saying "look at the camera" and the boys are trying to wiggle their way out!

We had such a great time visiting around the campfire with everyone! And hanging out on the beach. I had so much fun in the water with Leah, Dustin, and Riley even though we got tossed a couple times by the waves. Our family has such a great (and twisted) sense of humor making for lots of laughs. Good times for sure!!! I can't wait for the next family get together!

A Little Late, I Know

2008-06-28T21:28:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a long vacation (post to follow someday soon) and I was checking out blogs and noticed just about everyone did a Father's Day post. I think I was stressed about packing for vacation and just didn't think about it. I'm feeling guilty for not doing one. So here it goes...
My boys are so blessed to have Frankie for a Father! He loves them more than anything and does everything for us. He's such a hard worker and never complains. Happy (late) Father's Day Frankie!!! We love you! And of course Happy Father's Day to my Dad! He's so much fun and we always have a good laugh together! I love you so much Dad!!!

Finally I Can Breathe

2008-06-07T20:53:00.000-07:00

The last couple weeks have been crazy. With Bradley's little league season coming to an end along with the school year, we've had so many things to do.
Bradley's had his Field Day last week and we were so excited. I was really excited because I missed last years because Landon was sick. So I was just about as excited as Bradley. So the day was finally here and we were all there ready to go. Before they started the first event I took a picture of Bradley and right after I did I got "the spot" in my eye. For all you migraine sufferers out there, you know what I mean. It was getting bigger and bigger so I told Frankie I had to get out of there quick. So I rushed home to take some Tylenol and lay down. This one was a doozy! The Tylenol didn't do anything so Frankie had to go buy me some Excedrin Migraine. To make a long story short, I missed another one of Brad's Field Day's and was really upset about it and felt like my head had been run over by a truck. Frankie took pictures and he said he tried to videotape Bradley at every event so I wouldn't miss anything (so sweet). And here's a shout out to Tyler for watching my boys for a few hours afterschool. You saved the day! Here's a view of the field. It looked so fun!
This is the picture that I took and immediately after got my headache. Aren't they cute in their Field Day shirts??
How fun would this be?? I love that Bradley's got his hands up and screaming on the way down.
Bradley and his cute little friend Junior.
The aftermath- TOTALLY SOAKED! Mission accomplished!

This was Bradley's last little league game. It was cool because the coach brought speakers and music. He announced all the kids before the game (even the other team)and he announced all the kids when they went up to bat and kind of did a play by play. In between innings he played music. It was really cute, but then a coach from another team came to tell us to turn it off because we were distracting their players! Party Poopers! Come on, they are 6-8 years old. It wasn't even that loud either. Some people take little league WAY too seriously!!!
Right after the game we had a pizza/award/swimming party. This is Coach Jim. Bradley really liked him. Bradley won a medal for Most Outstanding Offensive player!!! His batting average is .898 (which for those of you who don't know, that's really good!). He had the best batting average on the team and only struck out 4 times the whole season!!! We are very proud of him!!!
Bradley also got an award at school for being on the A/B Honor roll!!! We were so proud of him!!! He's a triple threat- he's smart, he's a cutie, and he plays some great baseball! Ladies, watch out!!!
This is Bradley's teacher Mrs. Marcus. He loved having her for a teacher. Now this is Landon at his 15 month check up for shots. Before the nurse came in he opened the cupboard and climbed in! He's no fool- he doesn't want any shots!!! Seriously, how cute is this picture though?!?

Bradley's out of school for the summer, and I'm so glad. The same routine Monday-Friday was getting old. Now that everything's over and done with I feel like I can finally breathe. Now I need to get him into some kind of activity for summer. I was thinking some sort of Martial Arts?? Any suggestions??

Tiny Treasures

2008-05-26T22:36:00.001-07:00

I noticed in Kindergarten that I better start checking Bradley's pockets because I would always find strange things in the laundry. (I learned the hard way with Chapstick in the dryer.) He would come home with the most random things you could find on the ground. Well, he's still doing it and it just makes me laugh. It's kind of fun. What will I find today?? Sometimes it's a scribbled message that somehow didn't make it to the trash. Sometimes a bottle cap. Sometimes the very tiny tip of a crayon. You never know. So I decided to collect these things for two weeks to see what I'd find in his pockets. This is what I collected over a two week period. I'm sure there's more things he put somewhere. Who doesn't need a broken rubber band?? Who doesn't love a sticker with no stick?? Puffy paint peeled off of something- I'll take that. These are the things that must run through his mind. I don't even know what the red plastic thing is on the little key ring. But he must need it for something. I throw these things away because this stuff is the last thing I need around my house. After I throw this stuff away sometimes he'll spot it in the trash and ask why I threw it away. And he'll inform me that it's "really cool" or "I'm going to use that". So now I make sure it's in the bottom of the trash so he can't see it!
Bradley is so funny about his "things". When we're playing out front I just laugh when he's riding his bike and he stops to pick some tiny treasure up from the ground and stuffs it in his pocket. Another thing to add to one of his "collections" (he's got a lot of those).

This Kid Rocks!!!

2008-05-12T20:53:00.001-07:00

I know he's my kid so I think everything he does rocks, but seriously, this kid can play ball. At Friday night's game he was 3 for 3. He also got to play 1st base (which he loves) for a few innings and got 2 outs. Well guess who got the one and only game ball given out?? Bradley of course! He was so thrilled and so was Frankie and I! Watch out for this kid. He means business.

Here he is in scoring position, lookin' good.

Happy as can be with his game ball.

Well if that wasn't cool enough, the next day at his Saturday game he was 5 for 5 with two singles, two doubles, and a triple!!! He was crackin' them out there like Jeter. He got ANOTHER game ball!!! (This would be his 3rd game ball, but who's counting?? wink, wink.) We are so proud of him!!!

Frankie and I love to watch all the kids on his team play. He has such a cute bunch of kids on his team. When Bradley was on 3rd base his friend Jake, who just scored (because Brad just hit a triple) yelled,"Thanks Brad! I got to score because of you!" They are just too adorable.

I had to throw these in too...

Bradley riding his bike to school. We don't have a bike lock yet so I drive and bring the bike home in the Tahoe. (I know I could just leave it in there without one, but I don't want to risk it.) I just love how serious he looks! And he always insists on wearing his backpack- so cute!

Sometimes being 7 years old can wear you out! I guess we'll skip the shower tonight. The best part was the puddle of drool in the palm of his hand!

Landon loves this police motorcycle rocker. He likes to stand on it and rock while holding the handle bars, just to make me nervous. It's hard to believe he's only 14 months old. One day he realized he could just sit on it like this and kept doing it over and over, impressed with himself. Bradley and I were laughing so hard because he would rock side to side shaking the top half of his body. The look on his face says it all. "Do you always haffa take my picture Mom?" And check out those thighs.....so squishy!

What Have I Been Up To......

2008-05-02T22:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in a really long time so I thought I'd post some pics and give a little update. We've been enjoying the weather lately because we know our days are numbered before you can cook and egg on the sidewalk. If we aren't at little league practice or a game, we are playing out front. Landon loves going for rides with Brad in the Escalade. Brad does some pretty cool tricks in that thing. I think he can drive better than the majority of licensed drivers in Las Vegas. He can even parallel park!

Shopping and running errands with Landon fills my days also. On this day he was sleepy and I told him to go "nigh', nigh' " and he did this little pose. What a sweet baby.

Little League has consumed our life. Bradley won the game ball a few weeks ago because he KICKS BUTT!!! GO BRAD!!!

This is another day we spent outside. This picture cracks me up because Bradley was trying to get Landon to look at me instead of a neighbor friend, and this is the face he made. We all got a good laugh out of that one!

This was a shopping trip to Costco with my best friend Amanda and her daughter Jersey. Gotta love shopping with them and having lunch too!!! They have a long drive out here right now, but she's moving A LOT closer so our Costco trips together will be a lot more often. I can't wait for her to be so close! We can never really get a good shot of them together. Landon's stink face is too funny and Jersey was reaching for mom. Maybe next time, right Amanda! haha!

Last week was Take Your Son to Work Day and since Frankie was off (but couldn't take Brad anyway) I asked my dad if Bradley could go to his school with him. We drove him out there at about 10:30. He had so much fun! During lunch my dad told the whole lunchroom who Bradley was and why he was there. Brad thought that was pretty cool. He got to pass out milk to kids and visit some classrooms. And he played outside with some of the 3rd graders ('cause Principle's do that right Dad?? haha!) Thanks Dad for letting him go with you and see what it's like to be a Principle!!!

Another cute pic of Mr. Darrington and Mr. Farina.

Landon is famous for his goofy expressions and here's one of them.

Always making faces!

I could just eat him up!!!

My BBOY.

Hammin' it up!

I missed out on going to California for my Grandpa's 75th birthday and my Grandparents 55th anniversary. Yes folks, that's 55 WONDERFUL years of marriage! I was so bummed that I missed it. They are the best Grandparents ever! But I did get to help out at Erin and Sarah's lemonade stand last Saturday and had a BLAST! The stand earned over $2000.00 for our cousin Garrett to go to Project Walk. Amazing, huh! You can click on my side bar to find out more about Garrett's story and donate!

So that's what I've been up to. With only 22 days left of school for Bradley we're looking forward to the summer break.

Batter Up!

2008-04-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

Bradley started practicing with his Little League team about 6 weeks ago. Last week was their 1st game and now they've played 4 games. He's on the Giants (as long as it wasn't the Red Sox, we were okay with it). We've got quite the team. His coach and asst. coaches are all great with the kids. The first 2 games they tied 10-10 and 12-12. We won the last 2 games 13-10 and 21-13. This is his third season playing baseball. His first season was tee ball, second coach pitch, and this season is coach pitch too.
We've been so excited for the games to start because we are big baseball fans and enjoy watching Bradley play. He has gotten on base every time he's been up to bat. That's right, no strike outs here. Basically he's da bomb. He's really good in the out field too. He's got tons more games and we are looking forward to all of them. This was before his first game. What a stud!
(1st game) Swingin' for the fences!
(4th game) He played some great defense!
Our little Jeter.
Here's most of his team and Coach Jim a week before their first game. They are such cute kids!

Go Giants!!!

How Many Licks Does It Take...

2008-04-04T22:19:00.000-07:00

...to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop?? I know what some of you are thinking. Get your minds out of the gutter! Mr. Douglass (Bradley's principle's husband) gave him a Tootsie Pop after school while we were all chatting. When we got in the car I told Brad to let Landon have a lick. He's never had candy before (unless my dad gave it to him. haha) At first he didn't get it. But once he got a taste of the sugary goodness it was all over after that! He was diggin' on it! Brad didn't mind giving it up, thank goodness, or we would've had a problem on our hands. He would lick it, take it out of his mouth and smack his lips (SO CUTE) and I could just read his thoughts! Like, "What is this strange looking thing that is so yummy and my mom's letting me eat it??" Mmmmmmm...my first sucker!

He was nice enough to share with his big bro. It was so cute! Look at those lips!

Then he was trying to offer it to me. Not that there was much left. At least he's not greedy, right?? Check out the drool on his chin! I could just eat him up!

Easter Festivities

2008-03-24T21:57:00.000-07:00

The night before Easter we got together at my house to dye eggs. I LOVE dyeing Easter eggs! I had some eggs and my mom came with a bunch more. So we had a good time dyeing, chatting, and laughing.

The Easter bunny brought lots of candy and some other fun stuff. But the Easter bunny knows I'm still recovering from all the birthday gifts my boys got at their party, so he didn't go too overboard. Our 6th anniversary was on Easter, but we celebrated a couple days before.

Landon walked right to his basket and just kept saying "Oh, oh, ohhh!" It was so cute!

Bradley found all the eggs with a little help from Landon.

That night we had dinner at my moms. And the kids did a really fun Easter hunt throughout the house. We had a lovely Easter/anniversary. Sorry, I didn't get any pictures from Easter evening.

Pump It Up!

2008-03-15T19:58:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday March 9th, we celebrated Bradley's 7th and Landon's 1st birthday's at Pump It Up in Henderson. I had it planned about 6 weeks in advance and wouldn't ya know 2 days before the party the boys both get sick! Bradley had a sinus infection and Landon had pink eye (yuck!), an ear infection, and croup. There was no way I could cancel it, so party we did! The birthday boy zooming down the slide. I think we were all lovin' the slide!

My little sick birthday boy with his Grandpa (post Mayor of Munchinland hair).

Bradley and his cousin's Andrew and JamiLynn. He was so sweaty!

This is my best friend Amanda's cute little girl Jersey. Check out her little piggy tails! We've arranged the marriage between her and Landon.

The Darrington Crew tearin' up the slide!

Karley, Riley, Mom, and Maddy

Paige is so tiny she flew down!

Bradley and his friends having a good ol' time.

This is Junior, one of Bradley's best buddies at school.

Landon had fun on the outside of the equipment, not so much on the inside.

Bradley's friend Colby.

Scotty man just chillin' in the Cozy Coupe.

Check out these hot babes hangin' out in there!

Landon was enjoying the Cozy Coupe too!

I took Landon down the slide and he was not diggin' it at all. Grandma took him down later and he still hated it. I think if he was feeling better he would've liked it better. Maybe??

This is BY FAR my favorite picture! You have to look at Frankie, Paige, and Karley's faces!!! SO FUNNY! I think Frankie was trying not to squish Paigey.

Landon wouldn't let go of Grandpa, not even for me! What-ever!

Riley, mom, and my best friend Amanda chattin' it up.

Karley, Kenidee, and Maddy were having lots of fun together.

I tried to get a picture of the birthday boys, but Landon was not havin' it!

Holy freakin' moly these boys made out like bandits! It was like Christmas morning when we got all this stuff home.

Another pic of Brad and Junior. Such cuties!

I had two different themes going on. Transformers for Brad.

Dogs for Landon. He loves doggies.

This room was my biggest (and only) complaint about Pump It Up. It was SO TINY in there! Everyone was squeezed in there. It got hectic with everyone trying to eat, cutting the cake, and opening presents. We had to pay for extra time and we were still pretty much kicked out at the end. They really need a bigger room!

Happy Birthday Bradley!!!

A Not-So-Happy Birthday Landon!!! Poor bubbies!

Bradley with his new skateboard from Frankie and I. We need to go skating with Karley so she can teach him some tricks. She's got mad skillz!

This was about 30 seconds after we loaded up the truck. They were so tuckered out!

Later that night we gave Landon some of his birthday cake. He liked to squish it in between his hands more than eating it!

We had so much fun and were so glad so many people could make it!!!

Our Trip to the Happiest Place on Earth!

2008-02-25T21:43:00.000-08:00

We took our trip to Disneyland the week of President's Day. It was to celebrate Landon's 1st birthday (we were actually in the park for it) and Bradley's soon-to-be 7th birthday. Their birthday's are only 2 1/2 weeks apart so we can do that, I guess. Of course they are still going to have a party though. Our first night there we stopped by Grandma and Grandpa's. While the boys played with all the toys I used to play with as a child, and Grandpa and Frankie were in and out of naps, Grandma and I chatted. I love visiting with them and the boys LOVE the toys at Grandma and Grandpa Great's!I always get a picture of the boys with them and it 's fun to look back at how much they have changed.

This is Landon and Bradley lovin' Casey Jr. We were in the Monkey cage OF COURSE!!! Yes, they wore matching shirts. I was so excited because I can never find them matching stuff. Aren't they cute??

Landon hitched a ride on daddy's shoulder's a lot of the time when we were in line. He made A LOT of friends that way!!! He's quite the social butterfly! Frankie also wore a shirt that sorta matched the boys along with myself. I know it's dorky (and Dustin's totally going to make fun of me,) but it was fun for one of the days at D-land.

My boys on Storybook. I love how Landon's got his hand on Brad's head. He's always doing that.

I LOVE this picture of Bradley!!! He's just so handsome. I can't believe he's going to be 7!!! (And I'm 26 now! It just seems too weird!) Where did all the years go??

Bradley loves the Go Coaster in Toon Town. So you know we had to hit that up!

Landon took a little nap while we did that. What a sweet face.

Of course we had to get him Mickey ears with his name on the back even though he doesn't like to wear it for longer than 5 seconds. Can you tell he wants to yank it off?? He looks so cute for those 5 seconds though.

Bradley modeling his Pluto hat.

On our second day we started out at California Adventure. These are probably the slowest bumper cars on the face of the earth, but we always go on them when we're there. I guess it's 'cause they're cute.

This was too funny. While Bradley and I hit up Mulholland Dr. roller coaster, and the Jellyfish Jump Frankie strolled Landon around. When we met back up this is what we found. Landon fell asleep with his head on the tray and Frankie kept trying to lay him back, but his kung fu grip was too strong!

Just a close up of the sleepy baby. We eventually got him to release, and lay back! It still makes me laugh.

F is for Frankie! Yep, that's my man!

I told him to get "friendly" with the F. And I must say he "worked it" as Tyra would say. If you enlarge it look at the girl with her hand down her man's (?) pants. Yikes! No thanks!

Since there's no B, Bradley got comfortable in the O.

L is for Landon!

This is my favorite! We used to take pics in front of W. Rabbit's door (next to the Mad Hatter and the Tea Cups) when we were little. I've always taken Bradley's picture there. So this was Landon's first pic (and not his last) next to it.

We had so much fun at Disneyland! We went on everything and didn't have to wait in long lines (10-20 minutes). A lot of them we just walked right on to. The new Nemo ride was the longest line (45 min.) but it went by really fast, and the ride was really cool. I will always love it there. It reminds me of my childhood. We were lucky enough to grow up in Anaheim and go to Disneyland ALL THE TIME. I will never get sick of it!

My Little Landon Turned 1!

2008-02-22T21:55:00.000-08:00

Landon had his 1st Birthday yesterday on February 21st! He was born on February 21, 2007 at 5:46 p.m.,9 lbs. and 19inches. I can't believe it's been a whole year. We celebrated his 1st birthday and Bradley's soon-to-be 7th birthday at Disneyland (post to follow) and had SO much fun!!! Here's a few pictures of my little guy through his first year. Here he is fresh out of the oven!

This is Bradley's first time holding him. Bradley was so excited (and Bradley looks so little too!)!

Look at those chubby cheeks and those pouty lips!

This was him ready to leave the hospital. Don't worry we covered him up. We just had to take a pic of him without the blankie.

This is Landon at 2 weeks old! My little old (cross-eyed) man!!! Check out that double chin. I could just bite it.

Here he is at 3 months old. What a sweetie!

6 months old at Brandon and Anneke's wedding. Good times!

Thanksgiving at Grandma and Grandpa Great's. He was 9 months old. More good times!

This is him at 11 months old. I just love that smile!!!

Finally, my BIG 1 year old on his 1st birthday!!! He got his Mickey Ears at Disneyland for his birthday. He won't keep them on for long (can you see the eagerness to rip it off in his eyes??), but ooohhhh it's just SO cute on him!!!

I'm just smitten with my Landon! He brightens up the day in our household. Bradley just adores him and I love it! I'm so thankful to have him!!!

Pick a Winner!

2008-02-10T22:54:00.001-08:00

Yep, that's my boy! It looks like he's scratching his brain!!! He had us rolling! He was pretty impressed with himself too. Tyler, have you been spending time with Landon that I don't know about?? Haha!

Landon's First Haircut

2008-02-05T22:15:00.000-08:00

Last week we took Landon to get his first haircut. We went to Cool Cuts for Kids because the kids can watch a movie or play a video game of their choice while they get their haircut. Bradley loves it and I figured there would be enough distractions that Landon would like it too. Here's the "before" shot of his cute little whispy curls.

The boys playing before they got their cuts. Isn't this a cute brother shot?

Bradley wanted to get his hair cut first so he could watch Landon. Landon was having a great time in the fire truck.

Then he sees the girl who is going to cut his hair and this is the look he was giving her. It was so funny! A little apprehensive.

" I'm not gonna cry but what the heck is she doing Dad?" Look at those lips!

About half way through he reached out his hand to me and it was so sweet! You can tell by the look in his eyes that he just wants me to hold him. But he wasn't going to make a scene or anything!

The "after" picture. He's so handsome! He looks a little traumatized, but don't worry he's just finally watching the movie (now that the cut's over).

Another angle of the finished product.

We were so glad he was so good for his first haircut. Frankie still misses the whispy's over his ears. And I do miss getting him up from a nap with his messy hair. But in a few weeks he'll be 1 (I still can't believe it!) so I guess it was about time for a haircut.

What's my FAVORITE time of day?

2008-01-29T22:29:00.000-08:00

TUBBY TIME!!! Not only because it's just minutes away from night-night time, but I get to see this cute little body!!!

Need I say more??

Pictures, Pictures, and Even More Pictures!!!

2008-01-11T22:29:00.000-08:00

You know I love to post pics and this one has tons. I just can't stop taking pictures! My camera is with me pretty much all the time. You never know when there may be a Kodak moment. Enjoy! Landon loves his Auntie Riley (and it didn't hurt that she had a really cool necklace on either)!

Landon is always wanting to have Grandpa hold him. His shirt says 'Grandpa's right hand man'.

Uncle Dustin getting goofy with Landon.

This is usually what happens when I try to take a picture of the boys together. Landon looks at Bradley with a big grin because he LOVES his big brother!!!

Bradley enjoys Landon's toys a little too much I think. Haha!

One of his favorite toys since he was really little.

Landon likes to point his finger and "Beep!" our noses or fingers. This kid is so cute I even love his little armpits! He was grubbin' on some of Grandma Farina's pasta. My little guido!

What did I tell you?? He always looks at Bradley with pure love in his eyes. I just love it.

"Beep!"

We babysat Kiersten so Tyler could take Christina out. Bradley loves Kiersten and keeps talking about how much fun it was. She was a total pain in the butt and wouldn't stop crying the whole time they were gone. Just kidding Ty!!! Heehee!!! Landon only tried to crawl on top of her and "beep" her nose for the first 5 minutes, then he backed off- thank goodness.

"Yeah, I know I'm cute. Tell me someffin I don't know!"

Landon wanted to get in his pack 'n play SO bad (hmmm, funny... he never wants to be in there any other time), so he decided to smash his face on the side and whine about it. Kiersten was probably thinking, what the heck is with this kid?

The next day Tyler was helping Frankie so Landon and I got some more time with her. Once again, trying to "beep" her nose. I didn't let him in fear he would poke an eye or something, but Kiersten was just smiling about it.

It was her turn to grab. His facial expressions always crack me up when she's checking him out.

Poor guy was so pooped. He opened his eyes for a second and then tucked his hand like that and went back to sleep.

Gotta love this face and the little chubby leg tucked behind him.

You caught me. Don't tell Brad I'm wearing his hat.

Today was crazy hat day at Bradley's school. Does this look familiar to anyone?? This is what my mom got at the cousin's party for her white elephant gift. Bradley asked her for it, and she reluctantly gave it up. She loved that hat. Haha!

Vroom, vroom!

What Mom? I'm not gonna do nuffin. I'm just hangin' out...

Yeah, I'm standing on my chair. Whatcha gonna do about it??

This is another one of his famous smiles.

We finally got the bike trailer hooked up and went for a ride today. Landon was totally diggin' it.

You know Bradley wanted to get a ride too. Always quick to go cross-eyed for a picture. That's my boy!

Then I took them both. It was a fun day!!! Bradley enjoyed riding along side of me on his bike, talking to Landon.

Stacy I told you Bradley loves a nice big box to play in. This pic was before he made windows and peep holes. I think all kids enjoy it. I remember doing this many a times with my siblings.

If you haven't noticed I really can't stop taking pictures of my boys. I just love watching them play. The way Landon loves on Bradley just melts my heart. They are best buds, that's for sure.

Christmas Came and Went

2007-12-29T22:21:00.000-08:00

Well Christmas is over and I can't really believe it. It seems like December just flew by way too fast. With all my last minute shopping and wrapping it's already over! We had a great Christmas this year! Landon was sick and I was really bummed that for his first Christmas he wouldn't get to really enjoy it being his cheerful self. Instead he was irritable and a little grumpy. After my threats that Santa wouldn't come, he did in fact make it and the boys totally scored! Okay Bradley wasn't that bad, but don't all parents use that threat?? This was taken on the Eve of Christmas Eve. Yeah, all my shopping was done!!!

We had a delicious meal at Dustin and Leah's on Christmas Eve. Landon totally zonked out while Grandpa was holding him.

After dinner we exchanged our Secret Santa gifts.

Then it was on to Grandma and Grandpa's to open more presents!!! This picture was shot from my lap. I was completely covered in gifts!

Bradley got this hermit crab house and food bowl (along with other stuff) from my best friend Amanda. She got both of my boys (and myself) totally cute stuff. It was so sweet of her to think of them!

Once again Grandma and Grandpa Great gave the best stuff!!! This pillow was just one thing that Bradley got from them. The kids went crazy for the pillows they got!

Grandma and Grandpa got Bradley this Transformer mask. Tyler was really jealous...

Which led to him stealing it from Bradley and putting it on himself!!! You gotta love this pic! If only he had on short-shorts and socks pulled up to his knees this would really take him back to his childhood!!!

Grandma and Grandpa got Landon this super cute Retro Rocket! Despite being sick he still enjoyed poking the buttons. But he was not going to smile and be happy about it!

Dad was THRILLED to recieve a case of his 2nd favorite drink of choice Red Bull (we all know PEPSI will always be his #1) from all us kids!!! He put back 4 before running around doing cartwheels and back flips. Nah, just kidding, but wouldn't that be funny?? (Just look closely and you can see his can of PEPSI in the background. REPRESENT!!!)

After getting my mom a Dooney and Bourke that she was not so crazy about last year, my dad got her another Dooney and Bourke this year that she LOVES!!! You can tell by the ear to ear grin. Isn't it cute?

The grand finale every year is the tote that my mom puts together. I wish you could really see everything my mom puts in there. It's our favorite thing to get! She totally stocks us up on everything like ketchup, parmessan cheese, batteries, Jelly Bellies (Dustin's favorite), photo albums, brownie and cake mix, tuna, canned goods, paper plates, napkins, toilet paper (Tyler LOVES that), paper towel, flour, sugar, rice krispie treats, granola bars, scalloped potatoes, chicken helper meals (right up my alley), and even more things that I can't think of right now. We appreciate it so much!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

Bradley was SO excited to get footie jammies from Dustin and Leah (because I could never find them at the store) that he had to strip down and put them on and model some brownie mix from our tote.

How does Jerolyn put it?? Psssstttttt...AAAHHHHHH!!!!!!! You know I had to partake in the Nectar of the Gods!!! Nothing like an ICE COLD PEPSI to make your Christmas even marry-er than it already is!!! Gotta REPRESENT!!!

Scotty was sportin' a cute hoodie somebody super cool must have gotten for him. So cute!

Kiersten had a very Merry 1st Christmas but was just as happy to be heading home after the festivities! So precious!

Santa's little set up!

Bradley was so stoked that Santa got him the Mongoose that he wanted and was ready to take it for a ride!

These are the ornaments that Bradley made for us and he was VERY proud of them. He put a lot of work into them. He said, "The popcicle sticks were the hardest part" with a sigh. I just LOVE that he was so excited to give us these. They are so cute!

By the time I was almost done opening one toy, Bradley would lose interest and find something else he wanted to open and play with. Finally Bradley realized if he pitched in on untwisting and unscrewing that it would make things a lot easier for us to get things put together. What a guy! But really, do they think these toys are going through a twister before they get to my house?!? They package these toys so that they are so hard to get out!!! Ugh!

Landon was checking out the Cookie Monster remote we got him. I just love how his little ankles are crossed! Five days after Christmas and we already have lost this toy! I'm sure it will turn up somewhere unexpected.

We LOVE Little People so we had to get Landon the barn to add to our collection. Remember he was sick, so that should explain the blank expression on his face. Now that he's feeling better, he loves it!

This is the Little People piggy's butt/tail that came with the barn. Isn't it cute?!?

I told you he wanted to take it for a ride. So he did- through the house! It's Christmas, I'll let it slide!

Bradley pushing Landon around on his Little People school bus.

Santa got Bradley this thing that flies around in the house (and runs into the walls). He was diggin' this!

My in-laws got Bradley this really cool drum set. He wanted it set up SO bad! So when Landon would nap, I'd work on putting it together for him. He is SO PUNK ROCK!!! He had to take off his shirt. I told him Dustin could come over and show him some skills. He looked at me VERY serious and said," Why do I need him to show me some skills? I'm already great." very matter-of -fact. We love to listen to him rock out! Soon he won't have any room left in his playroom!

Landon was enjoying one of Bradley's drum solo's!

This one, not so much.

Oh yeah! That's what I like Brad!!! Woohoo!!!

My in-laws also got him this really nice easel because he loves to draw.

These pics are from today. It is SO hard to take a picture of the boys together. Landon just wants to look at Bradley, or the rock on the ground, or ANYTHING that isn't mom with the camera!

Bradley was gettting annoyed so he tried to explain to Landon that he needs to look at me and smile so he can go ride his bike.

I guess the pep talk kind of worked. But all I got was this goofy smile with the scrunched up nose. Kinda like our Christmas card pic this year! What are ya gonna do?? He's still dang cute!

Bradley paused for a quick pic for me before taking off on his new ride.

FINALLY!!! A pic of Landon with a cute smile!!! I just LOVE THIS BABY!!!

I still can't believe it's almost 2008! In 8 weeks Landon will be 1 year old! Where'd all the time go?? Well, I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and that you have a Happy New Year!!!

Bradley, Bradley, Bradley...

2007-12-14T23:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Frankie went by himself to go pick Bradley up from school. We always get there early so we can park right up front, grab him, and get out of there. I stayed home with Landon because we were going to see Santa at the mall after school and I had to feed him and pack the diaper bag and what not. Bradley gets out of school at 3:46 and when it was almost 4:00 and they weren't home I was getting annoyed because I wanted to get the show on the road. Well at 4:00 Frankie calls and this is how the conversation went:
Frankie- "Bradley never came out."
me- "What do you mean?!?"
Frankie- "All the kids are gone and he never came out!"
me- "Oh my gosh! Did you go to the office?!?"
Frankie- "I'm going there now. I just went around the corner and everyone is gone. I peeked into SafeKey. He's not there."
*Just a little note. I'm ALWAYS there to get Bradley. He never goes home with anyone else. Sometimes I get out of the truck and wait for him and chat with my mom friends, but he usually just walks to the truck that's parked not too far away. It's very routine.
me-"Oh my gosh, bleep bleep bleep...!!!"
I could hear Frankie talking to them. They page him on the loud speaker.
We hang up.
Frankie calls back.
me-"Did you find him?!!!"
Frankie (very worried)-"No!"
He runs down the hall to his classroom where he finds a substitute. "Was Bradley Farina in class today?"
substitute- "Yep. He left with the rest of the class."
At this time I'm getting Landon's infant car seat and loading him up to drive where we walk, when we walk home together.
At this point my mind is racing. It's 4:10ish and he's been out of school for almost a half an hour. WHERE IS MY BRADLEY??? He was nowhere on the walking route home so now I'm in FULL ON FREAK OUT MODE!!! I cruise around the school once to see if he's standing around. Then I call my mom crying,"We can't find Bradley!!!" So she's all freaked out now but I had to hang up because then I pull up to the school where Frankie's standing looking very pale, and one of the office workers comes and gets Landon out of the car because I'm crying at this point worried out of my mind! (I wasn't throwing myself on the ground, or making a huge scene- just VERY freaked out.)
The office lady says,"Is there any friend you think he would have gone home with?"
me- "No! I always pick him up. And what parent would take him home without talking to me??"
office lady- "Maybe he walked home with a friend."
me-"He wouldn't do that. He's never done that!"
We go into the office where the principal (Mrs. Douglass- love her!) is calling his teacher at home asking if she knew anyone that she thinks Bradley could have left with. Mrs. Marcus said,"That doesn't sound like Bradley." I know this because he's very cautious. Mrs. Douglass kept reassuring me, "Don't worry. We'll find him. This happens about once a week." My mind is hurting because everything that could have possibly happened was running through my mind. Frankie had left in the Tahoe and I didn't know where he was going and barely noticed he left. I think it was the lack of oxygen to my brain. The secretary was calling some friends from class to see if they knew anything. I don't know the lady's name (who I'm referring to as the office worker lady) but she was like a little angel entertaining Landon and calming me down reminding me to breathe because I was still crying, feeling very helpless, I wish I knew who she was. By this time it's almost 4:30 and I get a call from Frankie. "He's ringing our doorbell!!!" So I say,"WE FOUND HIM!" I was SO relieved, I can't even put it into words! Frankie said that Bradley told him that he walked home.
They were right! I didn't think Bradley would ever do that. But they were right. Of course Bradley is totally oblivious to why we're all totally freaked out. He's just wondering why I'm not answering the door. Ummm, because I'm at the school looking for you!!! About to have a heart attack!
Mrs. Douglass comes and gives me a big hug. Thank goodness for her! She was so calm about the whole thing because Lord knows if she was showing any kind of panic I would have been even more freaked out (if that's possible). And the lady who was calming me down joked,"Now when you get home don't beat the crap out of him." I said, "Don't worry. I'm too relieved to be mad that he decided today would be the day that he walked home alone... Give me a couple hours." Then we hugged. And the world seemed whole again. My Bradley was OKAY!!!
Bradley said that he didn't see the Tahoe, which I just can't imagine because we park right up in the front. But then I couldn't help but ask Frankie,"Why weren't you looking for him after the bell rang as the kids were walking out from the gate? I always do." Frankie, "I don't know. He just always walks up to the truck." Me," How did you NOT see him walk right by on the sidewalk??" Basically Frankie never thought Bradley would do that, nor did I. We still keep looking at each other saying," I can't believe he walked home by himself."
*Just another little side note. The reason I didn't see him walking where we usually would walk on our way home is because there is a registered sex offender in our neighborhood (Yeah, I'm really thrilled about that! It's not too close to our house, but it's still too close for comfort.) and I've shown him the house and told him never to go near it or talk to the man who lives there. He said,"Mom I went the long way so I wouldn't have to walk by the bad guys house." At least he did remember what I told him and was smart enough to steer clear of "the bad guys house".
Moral of the story, IT'S THE WORST FEELING IN THE WORLD NOT KNOWING WHERE YOUR CHILD IS!!! I really don't know what I'd do without my Bradley! Thank the Lord that he made it home safe and sound. I'm so thankful everyone in the office made me feel calm (as calm as I could be) in the situation.
And yes, we still got to go see Santa!

I got ELFed!

2007-12-10T21:54:00.000-08:00

I finally got ELFed. You should try it some time! Click the link below and enjoy!

www.elfyourself.com/?id=1296013566

Cousin's Party 2007

2007-12-08T22:00:00.000-08:00

Friday night was the long anticipated Cousin's Party at our house. I can happily say that after A LOT of stressing and worrying, that it turned out great!!! I don't throw these sorts of parties so I wasn't sure how it was going to flow. But everyone brought food and desserts and we got a Honey Baked Ham (which was the BEST Honey Baked Ham I've ever had! Haha! Anyone sitting at our table for dinner will get that one!) and it was all delicious!!! Thanks to everyone for all the yummy stuff you brought! I love these first two pictures because everyone stopped briefly to smile for this one and then...

Back to business!!! I told you the food was yummy!

Sorry this one's a bit blurry.

2/3's of my cute boys!

My Dad and Christina were definitely enjoying their dinners!!!

Getting ready for white elephant.

One half of the room.

Almost the other half.

Doug scored a Cut the Cheese shirt that we all agreed David would totally sport. I think somebody stole it later on though. I'm sure Doug (and Kristi) were so sad!

This is my dad imitating Frankie with the pink pillow (who was imitating Karsten) with his white elephant gift. See how trends get started. I love Tyler's face! I think he had put back about 2 Pepsi's by now. He's got to learn to pace himself.

Nate got some really beautiful canisters!

This is the pie dish that Dustin and Leah gave as a white elephant gift the first year we had a Cousin's Party. Can you see the excitement in his face to have it back after so many years?!? He really had to force that smile.

My mom, America's Next Top Model, shows off her super sweet golf hat that she got. What a babe!

Tyler was being naughty with Dad's white elephant gift and cracking himself up.

Naughty, naughty, but so FUNNY!

After white elephant we skipped Catch Phrase and went straight for the notorious grenade from Thanksgiving weekend. For anyone who doesn't know about it, it's a grenade that shocks you when you squeeze it. As you can see Nate LOVED it!

Sarah wanted nothing to do with it. And Tyler B. tried his hardest. Just check Tyler's page and watch the video. So they passed it on.

Darin was killing me! It took a couple minutes for him to do it...

Some tears were shed laughing so hard. And this was all BEFORE he did it!

My dad thinks he's a pro. Just look at that smirk.

Darin's going for it. Look at that concentration.

Tyler has done it before and knowing what it feels like, he was hesitant. You can almost see his thoughts..."Just do it. You're not a wimp. You're an officer of the law damn it. Come on." Darin was still wiping away the tears.

Doug must have his own grenade at home, because he took it like a champ.

Kevin's reaction rivals the reaction of Darin and Stacy (when it was in her cleavage. Again, click on Tyler's link on my page. It's a must see video!) I think I was crying at this point!

Erin makes it look painful! Kevin was lovin' it!

Aunt Beth stepped up to the plate even after Frankie pushed it into her palm as he handed it to her, shocking her. Go Aunt Beth!

Once again Darin had me in tears when he wanted another turn. This is him literally jumping out of his chair! He jumped right out of the picture! SO FUNNY!

WARNING! This is a little X-rated. Stacy was gettin' all wild and wanted to know how it would feel to put it in her cleavage. She told Nate to push her boobs together because she just couldn't do it herself. Of course Nate jumped at the opprotunity. Let's just say it was freakin' hilarious!!! Who knew Stacy was such a wild child?!? CHECK OUT THE VIDEO!

Sarah was the only one willing to try and eat 12 saltines in 1 minute. Frankie offered $200 to anyone who could do it. I think she only got two down. It's not as easy as it sounds!

Landon made his rounds at the party and just loved Jerolyn's buttons on her shirt.

Later on Bradley went around asking if he could have any white elephant gifts and he scored. I was going to take his picture with all of his treasures from the evening, but I forgot. Doug, Frankie said thanks for the dice! Although I'm starting to lose a little hair on my head. Haha! We had a great time and were glad you all could make it! We can't wait 'til next year!

Thanksgiving at Grandma and Grandpa's

2007-11-26T22:04:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to get this post up because Grandma said she'd keep checking so she could see all the pictures from Thanksgiving. It has taken me forever. I would upload some pics, then the next day type a little. So finally I'm done. Grandma, sorry it took so long to get them up!

This year we went to Grandma and Grandpa's for Thanksgiving on Friday. I was really excited since I hadn't celebrated Thanksgiving with everyone for a really long time. Alexa was the only one ready for this picture. It looks like Riley wants to take a bite out of that catalogue.

We all sat around and chatted and from the looks of it, Riley was telling a good one!

Bradley sitting at the cute table Grandma set up for the kids.

We kept joking that no one was sitting with us. Morgan was cracking us up!

Christie, Guinevere, and Brent eating their Thanksgiving dinner. Guinevere was babbling, telling us all sorts of stuff and it was SO funny! It was very entertaining. She's such a ham! It was so good to see them and visit.

Drum roll please.......Here's Cannon!!! I was so excited to see him, since it was my first time. He is such a cutie! I just love his lips, and his eyes are so big! It was so cute to see Brandon and Anneke with him. What a picture perfect family.

Frankie made a bet that no one could eat 14 saltine crackers in one minute. As you can see Dustin was struggling!

Mark swore he could do it no problem. Frankie had him eating his words when he was struggling to get the 2nd one down!!! It was so funny!

After Mark and Dustin failed Brandon and Cheyne thought they'd give it a try. Brandon was trying, but it just wasn't happening.

Cheyne was laughing so hard because he couldn't do it either! It almost looks like he can't breathe in this picture!

My little chunk of love looking so adorable!

Here's Brandon and Anneke looking "really, really ridiculously good looking" (-Zoolander)! Aren't these the cutest newlyweds you've ever seen?!? Seriously. It's like an ad for Crest Whitestrips! And I LOVE Anneke's new 'do!

Guinevere was making faces for the camera and it was so funny!

We all just hung out and visited after gettin' our grub on! Grandma made a SUPER delicious Thanksgiving feast! Yummy!

Aren't we a cute family?!? I wish we would've gotten a picture with everyone in it! Obviously that's not everyone that was there.

On our way over to Grandma and Grandpa's we stopped at the store to buy the saltines. While Frankie was waiting for the guy to ring them up he grabbed a grenade that was on the counter. To his surprise and the cashier's amusement it shocked Frankie! So of course he had to buy it to share with everyone. Who knew that a $3.99 toy grenade could be so much fun?! It was the source of many laughs throughout the evening. This is a picture of Karsten (from behind) holding it. He would hold it down forever and it didn't even phase him! It was so funny! I think we all agreed that it didn't hurt, it was more like a tingly vibration. Hahaha! I know Lisa will get a good laugh out of that one! Frankie would hold it down on Dustin and someone would hold both of their hands and feel the shock. Loads of fun! If you are attending the Cousin Christmas Party you will get to experience the fun that we had.

Bradley and Gracie had a good time goofing around together. They are two very silly 1st graders!

Frankie was snuggling up to Dustin while he napped with a pillow on his head on Saturday. So precious!

Landon was all tuckered out with his face smooshed on the ground.

Thanks again Grandma and Grandpa for everything! We had such a great time. I wish we could see all of you more often. It was a perfect Thanksgiving. The food was delicious and we couldn't ask for better company!!!

Lions, and tigers, and BEAVERS?! Oh my!

2007-11-12T21:56:00.001-08:00

From a distance it would appear that nothing is wrong in this picture of Landon's crib, right? Well, take a closer look below. Aaaahhhhh! It seems a certain beaver baby has had a field day with his crib. About 2 weeks ago I got him up from a nap and saw the beginning of what has become a great pass time for my little beaver boy when I don't run in to get him the second he wakes up. When I do get in there he has a huge grin on his face with little specs of what used to be the beautiful cherry finish on his crib. His little sea turtle toy was on the other side but once he started doing this I moved it to the front where he had begun this to hopefully divert his attention. Frankie's response was, "Yeah, all we need now is like, 10 more." Well, we didn't get 10 more (duh) so now it's pretty much all chewed up. I do love my little beaver, so I'll let it slide!

If you look closely below, you can actually see the beaver in his natural habitat.

Alter Egos

2007-11-03T21:58:00.000-07:00

I loved reading everyone's alter egos so I thought I'd give it a try. Tyler, I thought you said you'd do it too. Get to it buddy. Here we go...

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME:(first pet & current car) Ginger Tahoe

2.YOUR GANGSTA NAME:(fave ice cream flavor, favorite cookie) Cookie Dough Snickerdoodle -Doesn't that sound threatening?? Watch out or Snickerdoodle's gonna put a cap in your ...haha!

3. YOUR “FLY Guy/Girl” NAME:(first initial of first name, first three letters ofyour last name) K. Far

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME:(favorite color, favorite animal) Blue Dolphin

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME:(middle name, city where you were born) Ann Provo

6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME:(the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first) Farko

7. SUPERHERO NAME:(”The” + your 2nd favorite color, your favorite drink) The Green Pepsi

8. NASCAR NAME:(the first names of your grandfathers) Lloyd Charles

9. STRIPPER NAME:(the name of your favorite perfume/cologne/scent,favorite candy) Sparkling Peach Butterfinger -Hmmm, thoughts anyone? I can thank Bath & Body Works for that one!!!

10.WITNESS PROTECTION NAME:(mother’s & father’s middle names ) Ann C.

11. TV WEATHER ANCHOR NAME: (Your 5th grade teacher’s last name, a major city that starts with the same letter) Robertson Reno

12. SPY NAME/BOND GIRL: (your favorite season/holiday, flower) Fall Tulip

13. CARTOON NAME: (favorite fruit, article of clothing you’re wearing right now + “ie” or “y”) Pineapple Over-the-Shoulder-Boulder-Holdery??

14. HIPPIE NAME: (What you ate for breakfast, your favorite tree) Kashi Palm

15. YOUR ROCK STAR TOUR NAME: (”The” + Your fave hobby/craft, fave weather element + “Tour”) The Cruisin' Sunshine Tour

I think the Stripper Name makes up for all the boring ones I have!!!

A Very Happy Halloween!!!

2007-10-31T22:16:00.001-07:00

As you all know I love Halloween, so I was so glad it was finally here. I went to Bradley's school for a party with all of the 1st graders. I can't believe how many there are! It was amazing how organized it was considering. After school Bradley was very anxious to get to the Trick or Treating.
This year was different than others because we usually just go around the neighborhood by ourselves and meet Tyler and Christina at the church for Trunk or Treat. But this year we had quite the house-full! My best friend Amanda, her husband Dusty, their 11 month old daughter Jersey, my friend Sylvie, her boyfriend Neil and their two kids Colby (who's Bradley's age) and her 3 1/2 month old daughter Addison, my dad, Tyler, Christina, and Kiersten all were in attendance!!! It was so much fun to have everyone here! There were so many cute babies to pass around! Bradley was SO glad to have Colby to Trick or Treat with. Normally it's just us boring parents. Here's some pics from our Halloween:Here's Bradley afterschool counting down the minutes until everyone got here.

This was my first time meeting Addison (I know, I know, but we seriously live on the OPPOSITE sides of town!) She is SO adorable! Look at those cheeks! No, I didn't pinch them, but I wanted to!

This was the best pic I got of my boys right before we started our rounds. Pretty funny.

This is Colby, Addison, Landon, and Bradley all looking very cute in their costumes.

Here's Landon trying to claw at the camera. He's just crazy like that.

Grandpa had to get a pic with the grandkids, but Bradley just wanted to get the loot. Can you tell he's ready to run off?? Can you blame him??

Now this is Jersey, Landon's future wife. Aren't they the cutest little Bumblebee's you've ever seen?! (Notice the little flowers on Jersey. Such a cute touch! Amanda's just creative like that!) They might not be able to eat candy, but they made out like bandits!!! Nobody could resist those faces!

This little photo shoot was pretty hilarious! Everybody was yelling their names, snapping, clapping, to get their attention. But all they wanted to do was play. Landon was digging her antenae! And she didn't mind one bit.

I love how they were just checkin' each other out! Babies are so funny.

Here's Kiersten on her way home. She snoozed during most of the festivities and was ready to party when she woke up. She was entertaining everyone by babbling and showing off her impressive wing spand. I love her squeals!

Colby and Bradley had so much fun. Notice Bradley had to put on his camo shorts when we got home. Can you guess what he wants to be for Halloween next year? That's right. An army dude. They were waiting on the couch hoping some late trick or treaters would ring the bell.

I'm so glad that everyone made it to celebrate Halloween with us. It was the 1st Halloween for 4 of the babies so we were glad to share that with our friends and family!!! Now I guess I'll have to take down my decorations tomorrow. Before you know it I'll be decorating for Christmas! I hope everyone else had as much fun as we did on this Halloween!

Lots going on

2007-10-27T22:01:00.000-07:00

We've been doing so much lately, that I'm going to have to combine all these pictures (and there's a lot) in one post.
Last Saturday Dustin and Leah invited us to go to their ward's Trunk or Treat. Tyler and Christina came too, so all the cousins were there together. It was a lot of fun. There were a bunch of games for the kids to play and pony rides. It got really windy and dusty towards the end, but it was still a great time. Here's Landon in his Bumblebee costume. He's a very serious Bumblebee, but a cute one.

Bradley loves the pony rides! And I love that cheesy grin!

Riley turned 18 on the 25th of this month. I still can't believe that she's 18! It really freaks me out that my sister is a legal adult. And it makes me feel really old. We celebrated at my mom's last Sunday.

We got Riley a pillowcase with our little gangsta children on it as a gag gift. We all got a good laugh out of it!

Bradley looks like he's serving time back in the 70's in this picture! It still makes me laugh when I see these pics.

Landon loves to push over his toy box and climb on top. The only problem is he can't get down. So he just smiles, feeling very accomplished that he got up there, and kicks his legs.

He did it again! He's stuck, but he's happy to be there!!!

Leah got me interested in the Springs Preserve so we got an annual pass. We went on Nevada Day and we loved it so much that we all went today too! It is so cool there. There is so much to do, and the kids just love it. My personal favorite (so far) is the flash flood demonstration. I'm telling you, if you haven't been, you need to go.

We ate lunch at Wolfgang Puck's cafe and it was de-lish!!! Bradley and Paige gave the pizza a thumbs up.

Karley and Madison looking cute, as always.

Scotty was gettin' down with the pizza too. Look at that face, those eyes! He is so stinkin' cute!

This is me poking my head in the bubble to check out the bunnies.

The kids checking out a stream.

My camera needed new batteries, so I couldn't take any more pics on Friday. But here's more from today.

Scotty was LOVING this tractor in the recycling center!

Crazy cousins!

This is a garbage truck (or should I say, recycling truck?) in the recycling center. Don't they look so cute?!? I thought all the crushed cans looked cool and for some reason I REALLY wanted a Pepsi when we left. Hmmm....

Landon making his crazy cheese-face in the caboose at the park.

I love that cheesy grin with the scrunched up nose! It's so funny!

Check out these faces! Madison was the only one really smiling! I guess after a day of me telling them to smile for a Kodak moment, they got a little sick of it and got creative!

I'm not exactly sure what this is, but Bradley loves it.

This is in the Ori-gen building and again, I'm not exactly sure what it is, but it was cool.

So Leah got me addicted to the Springs Preserve and I can't wait to go back again. Bradley's class is going on a field trip there on November 14th, so you know I'm going along to help!

Landon is out of his infant seat and in his new car seat. Today was his first day in it. He loved it and I'm so glad. Can you tell how tired (but happy) he is after our day at the Preserve? That's another plus for all you parents out there. You're kids will sleep like angels after a day of exploring at the Preserve.

Just FYI

2007-10-22T22:25:00.000-07:00

This year is my turn to throw the Cousin's Party. Time is flying by so fast, I can't believe it's already almost Halloween. Before you know it, it's going to be time for the Cousin's Party! So we've been thinking about it already. We think it's going to be on Friday, December 7th. It's not set in stone, but it will most likely be on that day. I thought I'd throw that out there so you can keep that date in mind.
I'm not good with these things so I'll need a lot of suggestions. Seriously. Let's just cross our fingers and hope for the best!!! Haha!!! Frankie just said that he hopes everybody likes SPAM. Ooohhh yummy. (Barf.)

It's October!

2007-10-14T22:02:00.000-07:00

I love October. I love the weather. I love decorating the house with all my Halloween stuff. And most importantly I LOVE Halloween! I still have some decorating to do, but I just have to find the time. Bradley wanted to be Black Spiderman (or Venom-whatever he's called) this year. But last year he was Spiderman so I was glad they were all sold out of Black Spiderman at Target. He decided he'd be Wolverine instead. I love getting costumes at The Disney Store. But I think he's a little old for most of their costumes, so I'm okay with Wolverine. It's actually really cute on him. Landon is going to be a bumble bee. He's going to use Bradley's costume from his first Halloween. I put it on him and let me tell you.....he looked SO DANG CUTE! So imagine my dilemma when I was at Old Navy and their costumes were 50% off and cute too! I'm not good at decision making, so I didn't get one. I'm kind of regretting it now. Whatever he ends up being, he'll be cute.
And on to the pictures..... "Grandma got me this shirt that says 'Lil Wild Man. You want me to be wild??"

"Okay, RRROOOAAARRR !!! Wild enough for you???" Landon likes to make this face lately and it just cracks us up!

Landon was watching Bradley and Jamie Lynn dance at Grandma Farina's and he was jumping like crazy. I would have posted some pics of them dancing but Brad was in his underwear and probably would not be too happy about it!

Bradley took Landon's picture after we left a b-day party on Saturday. He begged,"PLEASE! He looks so cute!" So I gave in. And I had to agree with him!

Bradley just can't get enough of his little brother!

"Hey look at me! I'm so cool. I can smack my hands together and they make a really cool noise!" He is a clappin' fool.

Still clappin' and very pleased with himself! Notice his little chunky thighs. I just LOVE his thighs!!! Seriously, don't you want to bite them??

Today we took a picture of all the kids (minus Kiersten who's in Texas checking out the basement of the Alamo) in their Halloween shirts that Grandma got them. Don't they look so festive??

Another brother shot.

Me and my boys. Yes, I have a Halloween shirt too. Don't you wish you were as cool as me?? Haha!

Paige and Bradley trying to be scary. Don't let the fangs fool you!

That's it for me. I'm still waiting on my dad to post again! And mom, I'm telling you- you need to start a blog just for all the pics you have!

My Super Sweet New Ride

2007-10-08T21:52:00.000-07:00

Last week Frankie got me a new bike. Mountain bike, no thanks. Beach Cruiser, heck yeah baby! Ever since Dustin and Leah and children have been riding their bikes to my moms I've been wanting one. Leah let me ride hers and I remembered how much I used to love to ride or should I say cruise. Bradley and I go cruising pretty much every day. And I must say my bike is quite popular. So what if all the people that say they love my bike happen to be pubescent girls?? I'm sure when Madison, Karley and Paige see it, they'll love it too. I got one of those bike trailers for Landon to ride in. I have it put together, now I just have to figure out how the heck to put it on!I told Riley I'm going to get a basket to go on the front. She laughed at me and said I'll probably get streamers for my handlebars too! Whatever Riley Jane!
Don't hate, congratulate!!!

The Big Ol' Family Campout

2007-10-02T22:42:00.000-07:00

I know it's taken me awhile to finally blog about the Big Ol' Family Campout at Mt. Charleston and you've all been on the edge of your seats so here it is. Try to contain yourselves.
We arrived around 3 o'clock on Friday. Dustin and Leah were already there with their tent up, a bunch of firewood unloaded (from what looked like a handicap thing on the back of their suburban. Got a lot of jokes out of that one!), and THEN Dustin helped Frankie set up our tent that they brought up for us. Frankie is trying to take credit for setting it up, but I know my mountain man brother deserves the most thanks. Then I got everything set up in our tent.
It got really chilly and windy that night. We ended up going home that night because of the weather. I know everybody wants to say we are wimps for not sticking it out, but sorry, Landon had a cold and I was not going to make him be uncomfortable when we live so close. So any haters can kiss my you-know-what! Haha!
We came back before noon on Saturday and hung out all day. There were so many kids there that I couldn't keep track. I got a little worried when I couldn't find Bradley and Austin was looking for him too. But then David along with Bradley and a bunch of other kids came down from a hike. Bradley said David gave him a piggyback ride when he kept slipping. Bradley thought that was so cool. David is the bomb! Tyler Barlow can get loose with a Dutch Oven. Good eats, good eats. I'm not used to all that heavy eating when I'm camping so I took numerous walks. Frankie's really good with a Dutch Oven also. Too bad his Dutch Oven is a whole different thing, if you know what I mean! I'm sure all you wives out there feel my pain!
We went home again that evening because although there was no wind, it was actually colder that night! Our car said 30 degrees when we left. I know we missed out on the campfire talk, but poor Landon was looking like Jim Carey in Dumb and Dumber (when they get off the scooter in the snow) with his boogers frozen to his face!
Now for the pictures....... Paige, Bradley, and Caylee in the hammock.

Landon and I escaping the wind in our tent (that we actually never slept in. Sorry Dustin!!!)

Grandpa hung out with us in the tent too. Can you see the glistening boogers on Landon's face?? Poor kid, but what a cute boogery face he's got!

Me looking thuggish on our way up on Saturday. Just call me Tupac. Frankie and I were reppin' the cryps, Dustin and Leah were reppin' the bloods, and Mom and Riley were orange- not very gangsta, but it's okay. Mi Vida Loca!!!

I'm a happy gangsta!!!

My dad took Landon up a hill to check out what was on the other side. I love this picture. I joined them and we had to find an alternate route for the way down so we didn't fall face first. A little steep.

Bradley and Austin really hit it off and played the whole time we were there. Erin, I'm thinking some playdates need to be scheduled!

Here's everybody sitting around and chatting.

"Hey, it's me Bret Michaels, and this is Rock of Love on VH1." We were vibing Bret Michaels. Every rose has it's thorn! We are so butt-rock!!! If you know who he is, you'll get it, if not check out VH1.com and laugh later.

Mom and I representing our colors. I love this woman!!! I don't look so much like Bret Michaels here, but I do look like I'm about to mow your lawn!

Sisters!!! Aren't we so precious?? What would I do without her? tear....

Bradley getting down with a s'more. Yummy!

They had a lot of fun with those light sabers. If you look carefully you can see Austin hiding behind Bradley.

Everybody hanging out around the camp fire. Notice Stacey on the left. Was Nate braiding your hair, or what?

Whatever he was doing, Beth thought it was funny!

Scotty and Dustin aka the mountain man. I could just bite Scott, he's so cute!!!

I always feel like I'm taking a lot of pictures and then I get home and realize I didn't take very many. I wish I would've gotten more pictures of everybody.

We had a great time!!! I have to thank Dustin and Leah once again. Thanks for bringing up the tent for us, setting it up, and then taking it down! The funny thing is we never actually slept in it! Thanks for looking out for us! Tyler B. (or Emeril, as Frankie called you) thanks for taking on the huge role of cooking everything. Bam! You are brave! Next time we'll all have to share the cooking, so you're not so overloaded! We're a dang big crew. And thanks to everyone for the good conversation and laughs!

I'm sure I'm leaving things out, but I'm so tired that this is as good as it gets.

What did I just say??

2007-09-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

Landon is cutting some teeth so he pretty much puts everything in his mouth (I'm sure you all remember the picture of him going after Kiersten's feet.) Well out of all the things he likes to bite on, fingers are his favorite. Not his own of course, I didn't raise no fool. Anyone who's holding him is at risk of falling victim to the baby barracuda jaws chomping down. My fingers have all sorts of bruises and red marks to prove it. My dad told me the other day, "Just don't let him put your fingers in your mouth." He makes it sound so simple. When you are a multitasking stay-at-home mom, while holding the baby sometimes you don't realize your fingers have ended up in the baby barracuda's mouth. And before you know it, you get chomped on! I'm pretty used to it, but sometimes he gets me so good that it makes me yelp. Well today that happened. He bit me at the bottom of my nail bed on my thumb and I yelled out, "FUDGE KNUCKLE!!!" (I"m sure it was followed by a, "Son of a ...") Then I stopped and thought, what did I just say?? In all that pain the first thing I thought to say was fudge knuckle?? After my thumb stopped throbbing I had to laugh.
A couple little side notes:
Julie- So glad you can comment now!!! You seriously need to blog so you can post pics of that beautiful baby! Come to the dark side!
Erin- I tried to put up a cute background and almost had it. But when I previewed it, my links and stuff were gone. You'll have to tell me how to do that.

3 days feels like forever...

2007-09-22T23:19:00.000-07:00

I am so lonely! Frankie is in Napa until late tomorrow night. He was The Palm's top wine seller (#1 baby!!!) again this year so he left early Friday morning for Napa. The top three sellers get to go along with a manager for a weekend of wine tasting at a bunch of different wineries, lots of gourmet food, bocce ball and I'm sure other really cool stuff that I'll hear about tomorrow night. It's nice that they get to do that. He learns a lot about the wines so he can sell, sell, sell and know what he's talking about. He totally deserves it too. He busts his butt every night at work. A lot of waiters want to leave early so he picks up late tables every night and is always the last one to leave. He always gives 100% to every table and the customers just love him. I hope he enjoys himself. I have to give a shout out to my man!!! Love you babe!!! I hate being home alone though. It's weird sleeping in bed alone. So I decided to invite a guy "friend" over to snuggle with. Just kidding!!! I bet I got your attention though!!! HAHAHA!!! Of course today Landon was SO irritable (damn teething!) and Bradley wanted to test my patience. It's like they know I don't have my back up. But I survived. I keep telling myself that I'm going to get to bed before 3, which seems to be when I get to bed every night.
I hope all the bloggers read this. First of all, I don't know how all of you can write so much and still be able to comment. I spend so much time reading blogs and (trying to) comment on them that I don't have the energy to write my own blog. I really don't know how you all do it. I know I'm not a slow reader, so don't talk smack, Tyler. I actually would like to blog about some stuff (I never feel like I have anything to blog about) but I've already been on here for an hour and a half and it's just not going to happen.
I'm looking forward to the camp out next week. We won't actually be staying over night. We will be up on Friday, and maybe Saturday. I'll see y'all there!