PixHouse

TNT Week#5: Jingle Bell Jog

2010-12-05T17:50:00.000-08:00

TNT Week#3

2010-11-29T10:19:00.000-08:00

TNT Week #2 of training

2010-11-20T19:45:00.001-08:00

The "Beast" wasn't as bad as last week.
The training I did this past week paid off like my trainer told me it would.
I paced myself much better today taking it nice, slow and steady. I made it to the large curve East of the 17th Street bridge and little further. 2.5 miles give or take.
I walked most of the bridge, but unlike last week, I felt strong and was breathing normally.
It wasn't till I came back the second time that the "Beast" tried to kick my butt, but I pushed threw it and made it across.

First TNT Princess team training

2010-11-14T07:24:00.000-08:00

Join Me in my Race for a Cure

2010-10-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hi

Team in Training is a life changing experience. Join me.

T

Racing to Save Lives

2010-10-22T22:44:00.000-07:00

GETTING INTO THE RACE TO SAVE LIVES

For the past two season I've been helping my husband, Marc, fundraise for LLS and run both Disney's Princess and Wine & Dine Half Marathons. It's been a very rewarding experience, so now it's my turn.

I've decided to leave the sidelines and get into the race to save lives.

In November I'll begin training as a member of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Team In Training at Disney's Half Marathon, a 13.2 mile race through Walt Disney World.

However, I can't cross the finish line without your help.

All of us on Team In Training are raising funds to help stop leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloma from taking more lives. I am completing this event in honor of all individuals who are battling blood cancers. These people are the real heroes on our team, and we need your support to cross the ultimate finish line - a cure!

Please make a donation to support my participation in Team In Training and help advance LLS's mission. My goal is to raise $2,000. Please donate TODAY!

It's easy and tax deductable. Go to my fund-raising web page http://pages.teamintraining.org/sfl/dipihalf11/thousesk42 to donate.

Your donation (big or small) will help me get closer to my goal, go towards a cure for blood cancer and you'll feel great.

I hope you will visit my web site often. You'll see photos and see my progress.

Thanks for your support!

Taimy

Videos

2009-11-20T12:00:00.000-08:00

Caravella 1 edited by Andrew

Caravella 2 edited by Andrew

Caravella edited by Sarah using same videos

GI Bill Benefits

Child Car Seat

Lunch

2009-11-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

I'm the "Biggest Loser" this week

2009-11-10T07:35:00.001-08:00

For the last couple of weeks the House family has been off the junk food (at least Marc has been .. I'm off and on) and hitting the gym to workout and get healthy.

I've been going to the gym before work to do 30 minutes of cardio and meeting up with my favorite gym buddies, Gram and Deborah, to hit the weights. So far it's been going well.

My goal is consistency. Consistency has been a big weak point in my life. I spend the money for a gym membership and, like so many other people, never go. Monday's I start on my eating well mantra, but by Friday I'm headed to the nearest Outback for cheese fries....man, I love those.

But, I'm tired of being over weight. I'm tired of feeling fat and nothing fitting well. I hate the way I look and I feel even worst.

So, I'm praying that God gives me the determination to stick with the exercise and eating healthier. I can't say I'm eating perfectly.... I would be setting myself up for failure with a quickness. But, trying to have a healthy breakfast, eat more salad with grilled chicken or tuna .. and reducing my food portions at dinner.

Where I'm at right now with my plan:
Exercising
Last weigh in I lost 6 pounds .... I was the "Biggest Loser" of the group (Gram, Deborah, Marc and I)
Eating .. ok

Next weigh-in .... wish me luck

Dylan and Brandon's Birthday Bash

2009-11-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Dylan and Brandon!
From Ashton

Ashton and I went to Dylan and Brandon's Birthday Bash this past Sunday at Everglades Camp in Veteran's Park in Plantation. We had a wonderful time spending time with our friends from pre-k. There was lots of great food, a big bounce house and even pony rides...which the kids loved.

The House Family with both of you a year filled with lots of learning, health, fun and love.

Trick or Treat

2009-11-02T16:13:00.000-08:00

Halloween was a ghostly affair for the House family.... Marc, Ashton, Dalton, Kailey, Frank, his 5 kids and I haunted the streets of Pembroke Pines Village till late hours of around 11pm collecting a wealth of candy, pretzels., chips and even a flier on proper dental hygiene (do you think a dentist lives at that house?).

We had a ghoulish evening

Ashton hitting up a neighbor for candy

Happy Halloween

2009-10-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

Werewolves, goblins, witches ..... and Bumble Bee will be hitting the streets tomorrow dressed up to celebrate the one night of the year people can pretend to be someone or something they're not.

The House family will be ready to collect lots of candy to rot our teeth out.

Ashton has started the Halloween festivities early with a party at school. Here are a few of the pictures I took:

Ashton and his teacher, Mrs. Elizabeth

Bumble Bee is hard at work learning his shapes... what do you expect from a car from outer space?

Ashton's pre-k class.

House Family Carnival Night

2009-10-26T13:58:00.000-07:00

The House family (Marc, Gram, Kailey, Dalton, Ashton and I) enjoyed on Saturday the sights, sounds and smells of a local carnival. For $20 each the kids had a blast riding the rides, while Marc enjoyed eating funnel cake. Gram and I resisted the temptations...(although I blew my eating plan later that night with a trip to a Hollywood Argentinian restaurant, BeefEaters.. it was well worth it. Delicious!)

Here are some of the images I created using my new iPhone 3Gs and a couple of different photo apps.

New E-mail

2009-10-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

There's a new way of contacting me .. via my new personal e-mail at thouse0418@hotmail.com.

After years of not having a personal e-mail I've decided to get one ..mostly because I just got an iPhone and needed to be able to send myself photos I took on it for publication on PixHouse.

Please send me an e-mail so I can add you to my contact list.... and if you want my new personal phone number .. well e-mail me at my hotmail account as well.

More Birthday Pictures

2009-10-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Cristobal who shot the pictures.

Birthday Blast

2009-10-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

Ashton was the king of the party on Sunday celebrating with his friends and family his 5th birthday at Pump It Up in Davie.

Everyone had a blast jumping and running around the warehouse filled with inflatable bounce-houses of all kinds.

Kids also enjoyed pizza and cake made by Gram and Deborah with a big yellow Pokemon (I have no idea the characters name ... but Ashton does) and Pokemon toys. Ashton loved his cake, so did everyone else because it was all gone.

Everyone brought Ashton wonderful gifts for his big day. Ashton loved all of them. A few of the things he got were:
Transformer figure and book
Leapfrog book reader and books
Monster trucks of every color
Pokemon figures
Cloths
Marvel Memory Game
and lots more ... hours of play time in his future. But, after unwrapping all his gifts, filling out thank you cards for everyone .. we decided (ok, I convinced Ashton) to only open and play with 3 of his many gifts. He choose Pokemon figures and a race track.

Several of his friends from his pre-K class came to celebrate with Ashton. They all had a great time together. Other than a few accidents, including Maya biting her tong while bouncing around .. she was fine after some ice and TLC from mom and dad.

Marissa, Nicholas' younger sister, shows off one of the masks we gave out to Ashton's friends.

Thanks to everyone for making Ashton's 5th Birthday Bash fun and memorable.

Happy Birthday Ashton

2009-10-09T15:37:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ASHTON !!!!!

Ashton is turning 5-years-old on Tuesday.
Everyone wishes him a wonderful birthday and many wonderful things in his future.

God Bless

Love
Dad, Mami, Austen and Dalton

Armed and Ready- A must see video

2009-10-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Pledge of Allegiance

2009-10-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

Ashton at school has learned The Pledge of Allegiance.
Here he is reciting his version.

These are the actual words to The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag:

"I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

I like Ashton's version best.

Grandparent's Day at Ashton's school

2009-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

It was grandparents day at Ashton's school a few weeks ago. While other kids in his class had one or two grandparents show up, Ashton of course had an entourage of grandmothers.

Gram, his great grandmother Granny, Abuela Isa and Tia Neida from Cuba all came to meet Ashton's teacher, Mrs. Elizabeth, and observe circle time.

Ashton was beaming with joy to see his grandmothers and show off his poetry skills.

Grandparents Day was a great success thanks to all the grandmothers who came to Ashton's school to participate.

Thanks

New treatment for the serious illness of Journalism

2009-10-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

Ashton Sleeping

2009-10-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

Ashton's a "big boy" who doesn't need naps. But, every once in a while he just can't keep up with the big dogs of our family (his older brothers and dad) and falls asleep wherever he happens to be at the time. In this case a basket of clean cloths in our garage.

Happy Birthday to me!!!!

2009-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday today, so I'm reflecting back on a year filled with ups and, a few, downs. First I'll thank my mother and father for giving me life .. especially mom for enduring pain to bring me to the world. Thank You

I'm thankful for the beautiful and supportive family I have that love me unconditional (most of the time) and make me feel loved. I've learned a lot this past year and have tried hard to grow (not just my waist line). I've had a great time this year with my family going skiing in Steamboat, CO. and living the high life at the Fountainbleau with my mom and step-dad. The kids keep me on my toes and Marc makes me feel loved.

I'm also looking forward to the year ahead. I pray lots of great things for me and my family in 2010. Fun, excitement, patience, health, learning and lots of love are all things I hope to have throughout the year.

Wish me luck

Taimy

Pimp Daddy Gene

2009-10-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

Gene was looking like a pimp daddy .. and I say that will all the love in my heart.. the day of his wedding to Racquel. He was styling and profiling with a white suit, red tie and fedora hat. All the House men and boys looked fantastic that day. Below Gene, his dad, Papa Pimp Daddy and my husband, Fat Cobra, show off their suits.

What's Up?

2009-10-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I've written you all on PixHouse. I've allowed it to become dormant for a long time. Lots of things going on in the House family.

Had a nice summer this year. Thanks to Abuela Isa and Abuelo Juan, we got to spend a couple of weekends and a whole week at the beautiful Fountainbleau in one of their condos. It's was fantastic!!!! But, I was amazed at how expensive it is there..WOW! Despite the $$$$ (which we dealt with by bringing our own food), we enjoyed every minute of our stay at the luxury hotel/condos.

Here are a few of our summer vacation photos:

The House Family

2009-10-02T07:53:00.001-07:00

The House family at Gene & Racquel's wedding last month.

Easter

2009-05-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

Swine Flu confirmed in Broward

2009-05-01T15:33:00.001-07:00

We'll it's here in Broward County.. Swine Flu or the 2009 N1H1 has been confirmed in a 17-year-old Hallandale Beach senior who traveled to Mexico.

Be safe ......

Health officials are recommending several steps to prevent the spread of the virus:

—If you have flu symptoms, stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the disease. Do not return until two days after your symptoms are gone.

—Wash your hands often and cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
—Go to the hospital if you have severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing; but if your symptoms are mild, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others at the hospital.

—Masks may be recommended for health care workers, family members and others who come in close contact with swine flu patients, but there is no need for the general public to wear masks.

—It is safe to eat properly handled pork. Cook it to at least 160F.

We're Alive

2009-05-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

Hi

I know, I know ..... you're not blogging. It's been crazy and juggling everything: work, marriage, kids and everything else is taking up a lot of my time. But, that seems like a lame excuse for not keeping everyone in the loop of what's going on.

Here is the short version .. and in the next few days you can expect to see it in photos.

Kids great ...
Marc wonderful ...
I'm happy

This weekend is the MS Bike Ride from UM in Coral Gables to Key Largo. 75 miles each way. Marc, Peggy, Deborah and friends riding. Larry will be leading the SAGS and I'm going to be his co-pilot and personal photographer. Gene and Racquel will also be SAGing as well.
This year the boys won't be joining us, so it should be different. Kids are with their grandparents being spoiled to death and having a blast.

Love ya ....

Click!

2009-03-27T15:42:00.000-07:00

The Smithsonian Photography Initiative invites the public to participate in an unprecedented online dialogue about the impact of photography on history, culture and everyday lives. Visitors to “click! photography changes everything” at http://click.si.edu are encouraged to submit their photos and stories about the many ways photos shape experience, knowledge and memory.

The Smithsonian Photography Initiative recently started selecting stories and images submitted by site visitors on an ongoing basis to be regularly uploaded to the “click!” Web site. In addition, on a bi-monthly schedule, it is issuing more specific and theme-based calls for visitor-contributed content. New images and stories will join an archive of written and filmed commentaries that the Initiative began collecting last year from invited experts investigating how photography has changed the progress and practice of their diverse fields—from anthropology to astrophysics, from media to medicine, from philosophy to sports.

The Initiative is collecting and sharing images and narratives that shed light on how photography influences who people are, what people do and what people remember. Has a photograph been used to document property loss, inspire a hairstylist, sell a house, beat a traffic ticket or helped with the decision about where to go on vacation? Has a single photograph ever influenced what someone believes in or who someone loves? Visitors can go to http://click.si.edu and follow the easy steps to share their stories about the power of photography and to see images and read stories submitted by others.

Shark Valley

2009-03-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

Ashton, Marc and I joined Gram, Papa, Deborah and Tim (a friend of Deborah's) at Shark Valley on Sunday. We often go there to ride our bikes and enjoy the environment while trying not to get eaten by one of the many alligators sunning themselves along the 15 mile bike path.
Above, is a picture taken by Gram of one of our leathery friends.

I forgot to take my camera, thus the lack of more visuals.

We had a great time. Ashton, Marc and I only rode about 3 miles...Ashton couldn't do much more.

About Shark Valley:

The name "Shark Valley" is just to confuse you. There are no sharks and there is no valley.

It has been pointed out to me that there actually are sharks. Not at the Shark Valley section of the Everglades, but at the point that the flowing water (called the Shark River Slough) reaches the Gulf of Mexico. And there actually is a valley. If you travel ten miles east or west, the land elevation is a foot higher.

Shark Valley is a section of Everglades National Park in south Florida, USA.

Ashton's first soccer season comes to a close

2009-03-19T07:00:00.001-07:00

Ashton's first season playing soccer comes to a close on Saturday. Ashton and his team play their final game at 10:30am in Miramar.

It's been a great season and Ashton has loved every minute of it. Lots of fun has been had on and off the field. The kids went out there every Saturday to run has hard as their little legs could bumping, pushing and falling all over each other dying to make a goal....even if it was the wrong one.

Ashton did very well. The coach almost made him take a timeout on the sideline because he was so good ... ok, because he was hogging the ball. But, he changed his mind quickly saying, "I shouldn't penalize you for being good."

It was a great to see Ashton and his teammates play. We laughed a lot at their style of soccer: no rules just fun.

The coaches were great. They never screamed and always made sure everyone was having a great time playing.

Can't wait till next season.

The Best Husband in the World

2009-03-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Marc is the best husband in the world.. ok, maybe in my world. But, he's an amazing man with lots of great qualities ( and a few bad ones as well). I'm not just saying that because he helps me with the laundry (something he hates doing) as seen in the picture above.

He's a great dad who works hard to provide the best for his boys. He doesn't sit on the sideline when it comes to his children. He's a team player who runs around Pembroke Pines, Davie and Miramar picking up kids from school and driving them to soccer practices. Marc also is great at homework (I, on the other hand, suck at it....I'm sure you've read my spelling errors).

He's a great husband. Marc is thoughtful and loving (although I can use more ..you know what). He calls several times a day to see how I'm doing. He takes me out to do things he knows I love to do (like going out to dinner). He pushes me to be a better person (a lot of times I tend to push back, but I know he means well). Marc is a good listener, lover and friend.

We've had our bad times. But, God willing, we're beyond those dark days and headed to a bright, wonderful future together.

Marc, I Love You

Go Panthers!!!!!!

2009-03-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Tyrone Electric, the company Marc works for, gave out free Panthers tickets to Saturday's hockey game, so the House family hit the Bank Atlantic arena (I think that's what it's called? They change the name to that building like I change underwear...a lot).

It was Ashton's first hockey game. Austen and Dalton had gone to a Panthers game before, so it wasn't new to them. Marc and I had gone several times when I was covering the team for the paper.

We had a blast. We ate like pigs, enjoyed all the action on the ice (Panthers lost 3-4, bummer ;(
and it was nice seeing some of the people Marc works with. He talks so much about them it was nice to put a face to the name.

It was a great family night out.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day

The definition of Play

2009-03-16T06:09:00.001-07:00

"Play: Work that you enjoy doing for nothing."
Evan Esar

Congrats to Gene & Racquel

2009-03-13T09:03:00.000-07:00

Gene and Racquel have been dating for more than a year. Their love story started with a few clicks of their mice and taps on their keyboards. In the world of cyber space filled with billions of people looking for love, Gene and Racquel where blessed to find each other. Their love has grown ever since that the day they met online.

Racquel is a beautiful, intelligent and a joy to be around.
Gene is, is, is ..... very special.
Together they make a great couple.

Gene last weekend proposed to Racquel in the air as they flew over the words, "Will You Marry Me" spelled out on the beach bellow (thanks to Dennis). She said yes (thank God) making Gene the happiest man on earth that day (except for Marc who's always happy to be married to me).

The House family wishes you both success in your marriage. Congrats.

Happy Birthday Peggy

2009-03-11T13:18:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PEGGY!!!!!

We all appreciate everything you do for us everyday. You mean the world to us and are the rock our family is built upon..along with other smaller pebbles.
Hope you're birthday is filled with wonderful memories and lots of love.

We love you,
House Family & Friends

Youth is a wonderful thing. What a crime to waste it on children. ~George Bernard Shaw

A birthday is just the first day of another 365-day journey around the sun. Enjoy the trip.

The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age. ~Lucille Ball

Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what happened. ~Jennifer Yane

Just remember, once you're over the hill you begin to pick up speed. ~Charles Schulz

FIRE, FIRE, FIRE

2009-03-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

The family around the fire pit at Nina & Greg's farm in Evergreen, Al. last year.
Loved every minute of it.

He's no Naked Cowboy

2009-03-06T07:00:00.001-08:00

Do you know the Naked Cowboy?
He's that guy who stands on Time Square in New York in his underwear singing with his guitar.

Ashton a few months ago tried his hand in singing in his underwear with his brother's guitar like the Naked Cowboy. Of course, Ashton is cutter.

Tell me what you think.. does he have a career as a singer?

Picture Day at Soccer

2009-03-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Marc offered my photographic services to Ashton's soccer team.
So last Saturday we all gathered early before a game to take pictures. All went well with just a few of the kids not getting into the photo shoot and one refusing to be photographed without his dad.

Here are few of the shots:

Ashton is having a blast playing soccer. He's a bit of a ball hog dominating the field to the point that the coach has thought of pulling him out of the games for a little to give the other players a chance to score. He decided not to. "You shouldn't be penalized for being good," he said at last weeks game. We're working with Ashton to give other teammates a chance with the ball.

You're all welcome to come Saturday to watch Ashton, Dalton and Austen play soccer in West Miramar. If you're interesting in seeing the boys play call Marc or I for times and location.

Many thanks to our older sons for helping out at picture day. Dalton stood in on the test shot and Austen held the flash during the photo shoot.

I also can't forget thanking Marc. He helped keep the kids organized and rounding each player up when it was there turn.

Love Ya

Sunday Family Fun

2009-03-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

The House family had a great time at CB Smith at the Memorial Hospital annual picnic.

Wow

2009-03-04T07:30:00.000-08:00

I was driving home from work last week and saw this incredible susnset that I had to photograph.

We get so wrapped up with our daily running around, kids, relationships, extra that we don't always appreciate what's right in front of us.

Look, No Training Wheels

2009-03-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Marc has been working hard to teach Ashton how to ride a bike without training wheels. Everyday after school, Ashton and Marc have been working together and it's paid off.

Now all Ashton wants to do everyday is ride his bike. So on Sunday, Marc and I got Ashton a new and bigger bike. He loved riding it around CB Smith Park. He fell several times, but thankfully no broken bones.

The 4am Project

2009-03-02T13:26:00.000-08:00

What is the 4am Project?About

Hi. My name’s Karen Strunks, and my curiosity about 4am began about a year ago.

I live in Birmingham - the UK’s second largest city - and after a night out a while back, I was driving from one side of the city to the other. It was around 4am and I was really struck by the cityscape. Streets and roads normally teeming with people and traffic were deserted. The city was asleep and it felt like I had it all to myself. I liked it.

So late last year, I went out to take my first pictures at 4am in Birmingham. I’ve made some of them available on my blog. I’ve been asking readers of my blog for their suggestions of places they’d like to see at 4am. They decide where to go, and I take the photos, so it’s become a collaboration.

When I started to think about how the idea could be extended, the 4amproject was born.

I’d like to involve you in this project. What will YOU be doing at 4am on 4th of April?

Put the date in your diary, set your alarm, and take a picture of your world at 4am. It can be of anything at all. A self portrait, the room you’re in, the view from your window. Perhaps you want to venture out a bit further, maybe you’ll be travelling, or at work - maybe you’re a night owl…

I’m going to get some friends together and go out and have a 4am party. Why not do the same? Get some of your friends and family involved too. Or simply set the alarm, take a picture, and go back to the land of nod.

Whatever you’re doing, it’d be great if you could get involved and play a part in building up a big picture of the world at 4am.

http://4amproject.org

Spring Break: The History of Spring Break in Fort Lauderdale

2009-03-02T10:33:00.000-08:00

This is an interactive timeline I created for www.Sun-Sentinel.com.... would love your feedback.

Chelsea is 17

2009-01-31T18:14:00.000-08:00

Chelsea, my cousin, turned 17-years-old this week. She's grown into a beautiful young woman with wonderful personality and very smart. I'm amazed how fast 17-years pass. I remember the day her mother, Irma, called me over to her home to say she failed a pregnancy test and wanted me to confirm it. I was in college when she was born, but came home just in time to see this little baby that melted my heart. She's been a blessing to our family.

Now that she's 17 and can drive I expect her to be a larger part of Ashton's life....especially when we need her to pick him up from school and babysit.

Happy Birthday

Love

The House Family

Skiing Video

2009-01-31T07:00:00.000-08:00

More Pixs from Steamboat, CO.

2009-01-30T17:41:00.000-08:00

I'm not a bad skier, but I wouldn't consider myself experienced. We've gone skiing for the last two years in a row, which has helped me gain skill and confidence. This season I felt comfortable on the greens and had lots of fun. Maybe next year (if I still have a job and we can afford it) I'll get the courage to hit some blues. In this picture I'm on a green run called, Why Not.

Marc and I one day took the Gondola up the mountain to have lunch and check out a blue or black run, which you see going up the mountain. It's scary to me, but Marc couldn't wait to hit the blues and blacks with his snowboard. Here we are over looking Steamboat and Gondola Square down below.

Happy Birthday Austen!!!!

2009-01-28T12:23:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
AUSTEN

Back to the Real World : Bummer

2009-01-28T09:34:00.001-08:00

I'm missing Steamboat badly. The glow from being on vacation is now gone after two days at work, so it's back to the real world. Bummer. Yet, I'm trying to be positive.
Lots of things going on ...

Today is Austen's birthday. He's turning 11-years-old. Next year he's off to middle school and soon he'll be driving. We should all be scared.

Ashton last week started soccer. Tonight is his first soccer practice. He needs it because at his first game he kept grabbing the ball with his hands and scored a couple of goals, but in the other teams goal net. He might need to stick to skiing.

I'm trying to wake my butt up early to go to the gym after I drop the kids at school, but before work to get it over with early. So far I went to the gym, Sunday and Monday, but failed miserable (Ashton and I over slept) on Tuesday and today. But, I can't give up. The two days I did exercise I felt great. Who wants to bet I'll start going more often?

That's what's going on.... what's happening with you all?

House Family Ski Trip -- Steamboat 2009

2009-01-18T14:36:00.000-08:00

We've had a mixed experience during our ski trip to Steamboat, Co. for the Kids Winter Festival.

We arrived without a problem and our first day of ski lessons went well...for everyone except Marc. His first day of snowboarding was spent falling on his butt, knees, side and every way someone can fall while snowboarding. Of course, Marc, being the hard headed person he is, never quit and after one more day at snowboarding school he's gotten it and now is hitting the blues. His goal is to hit to black.

Unfortunately, our vacation hasn't gone smoothly. We did have a serious situation on our second day of skiing. Kailey fell during ski school and seriously broke her elbow. They got her to the local hospital, but after several x-rays and lots of pain medication it was determined they couldn't do anything thing and that she had to travel over 180 miles to Denver's Children's Hospital. So, Dennis picked up a rental car and he, Gram and Kailey headed to Denver for surgery. All went smoothly and now Kailey's arm is in a cast and everyone is back together in Steamboat.

All isn't a loss. Marc, the boys and I have enjoyed the slops. Papa has enjoyed being with us. And now that Kailey, Dennis and Gram are back, they're joining us as much activities as possible like bull riding, bounce houses, rides on the Gondola and snow mobiles (which where doing tonight for Papa's birthday).

2009-01-11T07:08:00.000-08:00

We're getting ready to go back skiing at Steamboat, Colorado. The group has grown since last January when Peggy, Austen, Dalton, Ashton and I traveled to this winter sport destination.

Larry is going the group to celebrate his birthday on January 18th.
Marc, who's never skied before will also be joining us to try snowboarding. It should make for funny video, which I promise to post.
Dennis, Jamie and Kailey are also coming. Dennis has skied, but I don't think Jamie has hit the slops and, I believe, this will be Kailey's first time in snow. I'm sure she'll have a great time.

The Yampa Valley and surrounding area contain several geothermal hot springs, from which the city derives its name. The city is named after the Steamboat Spring, located near the present-day library. The spring itself was so named because its bubbling sounded like a steamboat to early settlers. Unfortunately, construction and blasting for railroad silenced the chugging spring in 1908.

All the kids, Marc and I will be attending ski school. Some for more days than others. No amount of school will help me stop eating snow, but I hope it will help me avoid a tree.

Florida Gators -- BCS Champs

2009-01-10T17:56:00.000-08:00

GATORS RULE

The Gators kicks some Oklahoma butt this Thursday.
It was a tight game between two strong teams, but the Gators had passion and played better.
After helping Dalton with homework, I was glued to the television.
Everyone was asleep by the time halftime, so I wasn't able to scream and cheer my team. Although I couldn't contain myself a few times, which woke Marc up. But, I didn't care.

I remember the 1996 Championship game. I was a senior at UF getting ready to move back home, engaged to be married to Dennis Donet and looking forward to starting my career as a photojournalist. It was an amazing game. Stever Sperrier was the head coach and ruled the field. He wasn't very liked, but he delivered results. We partied till we dropped after that win.

There wasn't major partying during this championship game, although I would have loved watching it at a bar full of UF alumni. But, the win was sweet.

Go Gators!!!!!!!

A Message to Remember

2009-01-07T15:57:00.000-08:00

Thinking of Granny

2009-01-03T07:00:00.000-08:00

Granny, who just turned 80-years-old in December, is one of the most interesting and special person in our lives. Standing just about 4feet and something inches tall, she dominates a room when she enters it. Her personality is delightful and her endless conversations about anything and everything are astonishing.

Granny is dealing with some health problems, so I'm calling out to all for prayers.

She's a strong woman that has tackled and concurred many adversities in her life.
God will bless her during this time.

We love you, Granny..... XXXOOOXXX

Ashton Kicks Bear Butt

2009-01-01T12:00:00.000-08:00

During a walk through the woods in Evergreen, Al. this past December during Granny's 80th Brithday Bash Ashton revealed big plans to "kick bear butt". I was mainly worried about getting shot by a hunter. Thank fully neither Ashton, nor I, needed to be concerned with a bear or a hunter.

Enjoy!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! 2009

2009-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

So long 2008. You've been a terrible year. There have been a few bright spots ... the election of our first black president, family is still together, and all of our children are healthy and (when their step-mother isn't nagging them) happy. I'm not sad to see you go, 2008. Actually, I'm very excited about your end.

Welcome 2009. May you be filled with a stronger economy, no layoffs (especially my job), great things for my family and blessing to all around the world (might as well be ambitious while I'm being hopeful).

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!
LOVE
THE HOUSE FAMILY

Our Favorite Crazy Uncle

2008-12-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

We love him ... no matter how many things he kills.

Granny's 80th Birthday in Review

2008-12-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

Urban Camping

2008-12-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Marc tells me on Saturday that we're going to pick up Austen at a piece of property his great-grandfather owns off of 441 in Hollywood. Austen was playing paintball with his cousins, while their dad, Tommy, prepared to cook and camp out on this 1/2 acre piece of land in the middle of concrete city.

So, Marc, Dalton, Ashton and I pile into Marc's car and head over to this lot the boys constantly beg to go to.

"What the hell is this place?" I asked Marc as he drove into this place.
"A boy's wet dream," he replied as he laughed at my question. As if to say,
"You're a girl. It's a boy thing."

Several huge dirt piles for the boys to ride their dirt bikes, quads and place paintball on. Lots of wood to burn in the home made pit. A beat up trailer to sleep in without needing to take a bath (not that there is a bathroom anywhere in this place ... if you got to pee, there's the tree).

I wasn't prepared to spend the day among dirt. Dressed casually, but wearing flip-flops I choose not the make this a barrier to me experiencing a little of what the boys talk so much about.

So we spent the day with the boys, Tommy, Marc, the property's owner, his wife and a few friends who stopped by to hang out, talk, drink a beat (or two, or three), watch some football (Go GATORS!) and eat hamburgers off of another home made pit.

Night time came and we enjoyed the cool air by a big fire pit as the kids played in the dark, Man Hunt.

We all got dirty ... the boys more than anyone else. And, I now have a better understanding of this place ... and the boys.

Evergreen, Alabama

2008-12-05T03:54:00.000-08:00

Road to Greg and Nina's cattle ranch in Evergreen, Al. where every year we go to slow down, enjoy nature and family during the holidays. ... Lots of eating as well.

Larry last year was in the spirit of Christmas.

The ladies in red, (left) Wendy and (right) Peggy, enjoy a fest.

Every December, Marc, the boys and I make the 10 or so hour drive to the small town where Marc's father, Larry, was born and raised. This is one of my favorite trips we try to make every year. Larry and Peggy make the trip as well. We all gather to spend quality time with the House clan of Evergreen.

Ashton's favorite gift last year was this train that moved and even had smoke come out of it's.

We usually stay at Marc's aunt's home, a cattle ranch with land about the size of the city of Weston. Greg and Nina always take us in with a smile and big hug. Their house is great. Lots of rooms, a great kitchen always filled with something to eat, great land for the kids to ride quads and play on ..... plus, Ashton's favorite part, the cows. He's scared of the bulls, as he should be.

Greg shows off what he got for Christmas. "I open my house to all these city folks, they pig out and make a mess .. and this is all I get."

Left overs.

Let them eat cake ... and lots of it.

Lets me give you a few facts about Evergreen:

Population: The estimated population, in 2003, was 3,530.

Median household income
Local

$20,979National

$41,994
Source: 2000 census, U.S. Census Bureau

Former and merged names include: Cosey's Old Field

Crime: The number of violent crimes recorded by the FBI in 2003 was 15. The number of murders and homicides was 0. The violent crime rate was 4.2 per 1,000 people.

Ancestry & family history: 3% of Evergreen residents report German ancestry, and 4% report Irish.

Larry's brother, Wayne.

Ashton's Sick

2008-12-03T18:53:00.001-08:00

Mama's Boy

2008-12-02T17:09:00.000-08:00

Ashton is a "Mama's Boy".

At least that's what Marc says. I don't see anything wrong with it.

I definitely see it being a problem if he's a mama's boy at 30.
Society sometimes sees a mother-bonded man as a sign of weakness. It has a social stigma attached.
But, Ashton is only 4-years-old, of course he's excessively attached to me.

It warms my heart when he wants to be with me, holds my hand and, out of the blue, says "Mami, I love you."

My heart melts.

I hope his love for me grows and our bond gets stronger. But, I want our relationship to evolve like all relationships do.

Evolve into one filled with love, respect, independent of one another, but still knowing that if either one is in need, we'll be there for each other no matter what.

I sometimes imagine Ashton as a man. I model him often after my cousin, Mandy, who has grown up to be a man of honor, respectful, loving, a good son, husband, father, and family member.

I want Ashton to grow up to be like Mandy.

I'm very proud of him and it makes me very happy to see him successful in everything he works hard and puts his efforts in doing. That's the kind of man I want Ashton to grow up as.

2008-11-28T11:52:00.000-08:00

Ashton is hilarious.

Most recently he's begun loving collecting Transformers and building elaborate fight scenes with lots of sound affects. Ashton plays out these scenes by himself in the bath tub, living room and in the back seat of the car.

Here's a video of Ashton in action...

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T12:00:00.000-08:00

Every day I'm thankful for all the blessings that God has bestowed upon me and my family. But, on Thanksgiving day I want to share a few with you.

I'm thankful for:

Love
Health
Second Chances
Faith
Laughter
Happiness
Peace

It's been a difficult year with many trials and tribulations affecting my family and job. Yet, I know God has been with me and those I love and care about. During times of deep sadness, I never gave up hope that everything would work out for the best.

I'm thankful for Marc, Ashton, Dalton and Austen. The boys in my life that keep me on my toes.
I'm thankful for my mother, Isabel, and grandmother, Nereida, who love me no matter what.
I'm thankful for my family .... who pick me up when I'm down and celebrate my successes and happiness.
I'm thankful for Larry and Peggy...their unconditional love has given me strength and kept me focused on the positives in my life.
I'm thankful for friends like Maria, Gene and Raquel... who have listened to me vent, given me their compassion and make me laugh.
I'm thankful for the Photo staff at the Sun Sentinel.

What are you thankful for this year.

Get Ready, Get Set ..... EAT!!!!!!!

2008-11-27T07:00:00.000-08:00

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have never a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Now lets eat.

Thanksgiving Facts

2008-11-26T12:46:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day Facts from History.com:

Though many competing claims exist, the most familiar story of the first Thanksgiving took place in Plymouth Colony, in present-day Massachusetts, in 1621. More than 200 years later, President Abraham Lincoln declared the final Thursday in November as a national day of thanksgiving. Congress finally made Thanksgiving Day an official national holiday in 1941.

The National Turkey Federation estimated that 46 million turkeys—one fifth of the annual total of 235 million consumed in the United States in 2007—were eaten at Thanksgiving.

Snoopy has appeared as a giant balloon in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade more times than any other character in history. As the Flying Ace, Snoopy made his sixth appearance in the 2006 parade.

Check It Out: Pandora Radio

2008-11-24T13:03:00.000-08:00

This morning Sarah turned me on to a free online music provider called Pandora Radio. Since 9:30am I've listen and grooved to some great beats while working of course. I think I'm more productive because of the music. You got to check itout .. plus, it's FREE.

Below is a discription of what Pandora Radio is as described on their website.......

Since we started back in 2000, we have been hard at work on the Music Genome Project. It's the most comprehensive analysis of music ever undertaken. Together our team of fifty musician-analysts has been listening to music, one song at a time, studying and collecting literally hundreds of musical details on every song. It takes 20-30 minutes per song to capture all of the little details that give each recording its magical sound - melody, harmony, instrumentation, rhythm, vocals, lyrics ... and more - close to 400 attributes! We continue this work every day to keep up with the incredible flow of great new music coming from studios, stadiums and garages around the country.

With Pandora you can explore this vast trove of music to your heart's content. Just drop the name of one of your favorite songs or artists into Pandora and let the Genome Project go. It will quickly scan its entire world of analyzed music, almost a century of popular recordings - new and old, well known and completely obscure - to find songs with interesting musical similarities to your choice. Then sit back and enjoy as it creates a listening experience full of current and soon-to-be favorite songs for you.

You can create as many "stations" as you want. And you can even refine them. If it's not quite right you can tell it so and it will get better for you.

The Music Genome Project was founded by musicians and music-lovers. We believe in the value of music and have a profound respect for those who create it. We like all kinds of music, from the most obtuse bebop, to the most tripped-out drum n bass, to the simplest catchy pop tune. Our mission is to help you connect with the music YOU like.

Gardening Project

2008-11-21T07:00:00.000-08:00

The House family this past weekend undertook a outdoor lighting, sprinkler and gardening project in preparation for the holiday... and to please the Queen Bee, a.k.a Mami ... Taimy.

Supplies were purchased and the plan was set to fix existing sprinklers, run the pipes, wires and boxes for the outdoor lights in the planters and run a new sprinkler pipe to the middle of the front yard.

Most of Saturday, Marc, Larry and the boys dug and setup the lighting and sprinkler systems. On Sunday, Taimy and Austen purchase the dirt and plants. While, Marc, Larry, Dalton and Ashton finished up what was left to do from Saturday.

It was great working together as a family on a house project. It's been a long time since we'd done a project like this and the house needed some attention badly. There's a lot more still to do, but this is a great start.

We all had a good time ... or, at least, it seemed like they did. I'm looking forward to more quality time with the family working our butts off to make the house a home.

Google hosts LIFE photo archive .. Very Cool!

2008-11-20T08:52:00.001-08:00

LIFE Magazine debut in the mid 1930's bring photojournalism to the public of the day and leaving a legacy of historic pages for us to devour inside every old issue today. Now LIFE has teamed up with Google to offer millions of photographs from the LIFE photo archive, stretching from the 1750s to today, for you to search online.

Most of the photographs were never published, but are now available for the first time through this joint work of LIFE and Google at http://images.google.com/hosted/life.

Life is Precious

2008-11-18T10:13:00.000-08:00

Life is Precious

I was reminded of this fact on Sunday when I found out that my friend and co-worker's 16-year-old nephew was killed while riding his bike. The call on Sunday shook me up. I can hear the pain in my friend's voice and only can imagine the horror, pain, and devastation being felt by this teenager's parents and sister.

Take care of those you love.

Hug and kiss them often even when they don't want you to.

Don't hate or anger in your heart for others.

Apreciate those around you and tell them.

Tell those you love ..... I love you.

Life is unpredictible. Life can be long or short. Live every moment you have as if it's your last.

In loving memory of Robert.

2008-11-18T07:00:00.000-08:00

The boys at Coldstone eating ice cream.

Key Largo to Key West Ride 2008

2008-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Peggy rounded family and friends to ride their bikes from Key Largo to Key West in two days. Larry agreed to sag the ride, while Peggy, Marc, Kathy and Tommy hit the road flanked by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. It was a beautiful weekend with lots of sun. "We ate every 10 miles," recounts Marc who had to cut his ride short after a wheel on his bike broke. But, whatever they ate was burned off by the time they hit Duval Street Sunday.

Sophie's 1st Birthday Party

2008-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

Photo Retrospect on Halloween

2008-11-14T13:45:00.000-08:00

The History of Halloween according to www.history.com..........

The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31, they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future. For a people entirely dependent on the volatile natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort and direction during the long, dark winter.

To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities.

During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other's fortunes. When the celebration was over, they re-lit their hearth fires, which they had extinguished earlier that evening, from the sacred bonfire to help protect them during the coming winter.

By A.D. 43, Romans had conquered the majority of Celtic territory. In the course of the four hundred years that they ruled the Celtic lands, two festivals of Roman origin were combined with the traditional Celtic celebration of Samhain.

The first was Feralia, a day in late October when the Romans traditionally commemorated the passing of the dead. The second was a day to honor Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The symbol of Pomona is the apple and the incorporation of this celebration into Samhain probably explains the tradition of "bobbing" for apples that is practiced today on Halloween.

By the 800s, the influence of Christianity had spread into Celtic lands. In the seventh century, Pope Boniface IV designated November 1 All Saints' Day, a time to honor saints and martyrs. It is widely believed today that the pope was attempting to replace the Celtic festival of the dead with a related, but church-sanctioned holiday. The celebration was also called All-hallows or All-hallowmas (from Middle English Alholowmesse meaning All Saints' Day) and the night before it, the night of Samhain, began to be called All-hallows Eve and, eventually, Halloween. Even later, in A.D. 1000, the church would make November 2 All Souls' Day, a day to honor the dead. It was celebrated similarly to Samhain, with big bonfires, parades, and dressing up in costumes as saints, angels, and devils. Together, the three celebrations, the eve of All Saints', All Saints', and All Souls', were called Hallowmas.

President-elect Obama Photo Sparks Contraversy

2008-11-12T09:30:00.000-08:00

The Sun Sentinel used this Getty Images photo on the front page a week ago.

“How could the Sun-Sentinel carried a picture of the president elect, his wife Michelle and his youngest daughter Sasha and omit the oldest daughter, Malia?” asked Gloria Glinton in an e-mail sent in to the newspaper.

Many other readers called and wrote us, saying that our choice of a victory picture for Wednesday morning's paper disappointed them.

I complete understood. I have three kids and I would have hated for one of my son's to be out of a historical front page photo. But, I'm also realistic and understand the challenges that papers face with deadlines, differences in aesthitics and pre-design pages.

Here's why we chose that shot:

-Aesthetic: The picture shows the joy in President-elect Obama’s face, while also giving a sense of a flag-waving crowd cheering for Obama’s historic win. His wife and younger daughter provide additional layers of storytelling with their expressions.

Because of the side stage shooting position of the AFP photographer, Timothy A. Clary, the oldest daughter was blocked in this shot.

-Deadlines: Deadlines are not set by the newsroom, but by the pressroom, which needs time to print the newspaper and get it to the hands of those who deliver and sell it. We had a deadline extension on Tuesday, but by the time President-elect Obama took the stage with his family around midnight and the first photographs started coming in on the wires about 15 minutes later, we had about five minutes to choose a vertical picture from the few then available, move it to the designer to put it on the page and send it to the presses for printing.

-Pre Design: We knew that election results would come in late, so we had to designed the paper in advance taking into account multiple scenarios (A clear winner, a meltdown, no clear winner). If we had a clear winner the pre-design required us to edit for a vertical photo, but most of the first photographs moved were horizontal images of the family.

During the small window of time we had, we decided on the best vertical photograph we saw on the wires at that time and went with it.

What do you think?

Snowflake

2008-10-22T14:18:00.001-07:00

This must be the most beautiful snowflake I've ever seen, but can't afford.

Vote Starting Today!

2008-10-20T11:47:00.000-07:00

Early voting started today, so I'm encouraging everyone to go out and VOTE.

Don't wait for Nov.4th to vote. There are lots of early voting sites for you to go to all over South Florida. At SunSentinel.com there's a map with the polling locations. http://www.sun-sentinel.com/

Why should you vote?

It's your duty as a citizen of the United States to vote.

Whoever you vote for has the power to alert you life, so don't you prefer to put someone in office you believe in?

You can't complain about what's wrong in this county if you don't vote.

AND

You feel good afterwords.

Super Heroes x 3

2008-10-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

In a world full of corruption there can only be three heroes who are capable of saving the world from the evil.

Super Austen

Spider Dalton

Batboy Ashton

Welcome Kayden Cristopher Ivey to the World

2008-10-17T07:25:00.000-07:00

Friends Belinda and Karsten are the proud new parents of

Kayden Cristopher Ivey, a healthy 7lbs 3oz boy.

Photo by Sarah Dussault

Gram & Abuela's Daytona Getaway

2008-10-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

The End

Next Winners of Dancing with the Stars

2008-10-16T15:46:00.000-07:00

McCain or Obama for President

2008-10-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

After watching three debates between McCain and Obama and the vice presidents candidates I still am no closer to choosing how to vote for on Nov. 4th for President.

Who the is Joe the Plumber?

I'm not Joe, but I am a voter who is scared out of her mind for the future of the economy, her job, the value of her home and the war in Iraq.

The presidential endorsement commercials for Obama and McCain is basic mud slinging that doesn't tell me what either candidate would do if they become president. It's divisive and just basic dirty politics.

What I do believe and want a president to believe in as well are:

I'm Pro-Choice ... not that I agree in abortions because I don't, but I do believe in a person having a choice and control over their own bodies.
I believe in a right for anyone to marry anyone else .. straight or gay.
I believe in universal health care for all.
I believe that if you're rich, you should pay more in taxes than those of us who are not.
I believe we give to many countries to much money that should instead be investing in our own county.
I believe that we should begin to pull out of Iraq in a responsible time frame and send more troops to Afghanistan to hunt down those who ARE responsible for 911 attacks.
I don't' want BIG government.
I believe in the right to bare arms in a responsible and regulated manner.
I believe in diplomacy.
I want open communication and travel with and to Cuba.
I want an end to embargo with Cuba.

There's a lot more things I believe and want ........ given what my beliefs are ....
Who should I vote for?

My Favortie Holiday -- It's Not Christmas.

2008-10-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

Halloween has always been one of my favorite holidays.

Pumpkins, costumes and all the haunting decorations thrilled me as a child and still does today.

What I love about Halloween is the escapism of the holiday. It's the one day out of the year that you can transform into someone else.

As a young child I guess Planet Of The Apes was a popular costume in the 70s. This is me in my ape costume trying to be scary. Not sure if I accomplished it?

But, when I became a teenager, Halloween was a chance for me to express my exotic side as a belly dancer. I must have worn this costume for about three years in a row.... no joke. I had this costume custom made for me. And, I loved it.

I remember begging my mom to let me go out to Club Nu on South Beach in the late 80s to a big costume party they had every year. My cousin Maria, her best friend, Hector, and I all had fake IDs. Maria and Hector were several years older than I was, but we all loved to dance and the Halloween Party at Club Nu was the place to be on fright night. "Pleasssseeee mami", I would beg and she always gave in with the one condition that I had to go to school the following day. Of course, I never went to school the next day. But, that never stopped me from promising and it never stopped her from saying, yes. Those Halloween Parties are fresh in my mind and they were a blast.

Now I enjoy the holiday through my kids. Watching them pick their costumes pretending to be ninjas, cowboys, and lions thrills me. Watching them ask for candy door-to-door makes me laugh. "Trick or treat Halloween give me something good to eat," sings the boys with candy bags opened at the doorsteps of our neighbors homes. All of it tickles me.

There are few days left till my favorite holiday. We still haven't gotten Ashton a costume and I'm not sure if I'll have a chance to go trick-or-treating with Austen and Dalton this year. But, I'm sure all the boys will have a blast on my favorite holiday. And I'll enjoy every second...

What should Ashton be this Halloween?

Ashton's Birthday Pics

2008-10-14T17:54:00.001-07:00

Ashton's B-Day Party at Gram & Papa's House

2008-10-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

Here are few snap shots from Ashton's Birthday Party at Gram & Papa's house on Sunday.

Here are few snap shots from Ashton's Birthday Party at Gram & Papa's house on Sunday.

Family and friends joined us to celebrate Ashton's 4th birthday with a big water slide, lots of pool fun, hot dogs and a Batman cake.

Thanks to Gram & Papa for the party, Austen and Marc for the yard work (more Austen than Marc) and all of Ashton's family and friends for making it a special day.

Happy Birthday Ashton!

2008-10-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Ashton!!!!

Ashton Will Always Be Our Baby

2008-10-12T07:51:00.000-07:00

Ashton is growing up fast.

It feels like yesterday that Marc and I brought Ashton home from the hospital.

We were so happy. Ashton was a beautiful baby.

I fell in love with Ashton the first time I saw him in the operating room. Every time I think of that moment I cry of the love that swells in my heart. It's almost painful.

Ashton is growing like a weed, experiencing and learning new things by the minute.

I can't wait what the next four years of his life has in store for him ... and the 14th year, and the 24th year ...extra.

But, no matter how much he grows, learns how to drive, has his first kiss, moves out of the house, or gets married and has kids of his own..... Ashton will always be my baby.

Dreaming of Snow

2008-10-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

It's been raining all week and the weekend isn't going to look any better. Hopefully it won't rain for Ashton's party on Sunday.

To escape from all this rain I've been getting lost in my recollection of our ski trip to Steamboat, Colorado in January.

The snow was as soft as baby powder. They call is champaign snow.

It was cold, but a wonderful escape from the humidity and heat of South Florida.

The boys had a fantastic time sking and snow boarding.

We're all looking forward to next years trip. I'm not sure if I'll be able to make it, but I sure hope so.

Thanks Gram for making it happen.

Here are a few shots of the trip.

Ashton's Birthday

2008-10-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ashton's birthday is coming up on Monday, Oct. 13th. He's turning 4.

I've been remembering his last birthday at the Magic Kingdom when we were all together enjoying our family and celebrating the blessing and joy that Ashton is in our lives. We had a blast. And we were all very happy.

This year the celebration will be low key and small, but the celebration of Ashton's birthday will still be filled with joy and love.

The only difference now is that Ashton gets to have several parties instead of one.

This weekend at Peggy and Larry's house Ashton will have a pool party with a bounce house, food and fun. He'll have a great time with his brothers, Austen & Dalton and his family.

On his birthday, he'll party with his friends at school with a Halloween themed cake and gift bags for his friends.

Lastly .. as if that wasn't enough .. My mom is getting the Rodriguez family and friends together for a small dinner and cake in Hialeah.

By Tuesday, I expect Ashton to be partied out.

The Best Cousins in the World

2008-10-09T07:00:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-07T19:52:00.000-07:00

Ashton & I are getting ready for the arrival of Halloween.

We hit the pumpkin patch along Flamingo Road to select a small pumpkin for Ashton's school project and one to carve at home.

It's the first time Ashton & I went pumpkin shopping.

The sun was setting causing the pumpkins to glow deep orange.

Ashton ran around trying to carry the big pumpkins without success.

I just loved watching him.

One of My Favorite Pictures of Austen

2008-10-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

One of My Favorite Pictures of Dalton

2008-10-07T13:33:00.000-07:00

One of My Favorite Pictures of Ashton

2008-10-07T13:32:00.000-07:00

The "D" Word

2008-10-06T07:14:00.000-07:00

I never thought the "D" word would ever be in my vocabulary except when referring to other couples divorces. But, now I'll be saying the "D" word as it related to my own marriage to Marc a lot.

Marc moved out this past week. I wish him the best in the "new direction" he wants for his life.

There's no need to discuss the past. Just that the end of our marriage was inevitable and a blessing from God.

I'm concerned for our children (Austen, Dalton, and Ashton), but I'm praying all works out and that we keep their best interested first above our own.

My focus is in the bright future ahead for me and my new family.

It's been amazing how my mother, Larry, Peggy, Gene, Raquel, my grandmother, my entire family and many friends have rallied around me to support, distract and encourage me during this difficult transition.

Thank you for everything.

I know it will be difficult at times, but a large weight has been lifted from my shoulders. I'm feeling empowered of my own destiny, at peace with my life and filled with love from everyone in my life.

My son, Ashton, is the most important thing right now. Second my family and being successful in my job.

When It Rains It Pours

2008-09-29T10:40:00.001-07:00

When it rains in life it pours. But, God only ditches out what you can handle in life...at least, I hope so.

The weather is terrible. Last night the clouds opened up and dumped a ton of rain in Broward and a lot of it ended up on my living room floor and garage.

Ashton thought it was great that it was raining inside, but I was horrified. Didn't help that I had no buckets available, so a trash can and small bucket had to do.

It's raining again today and I'm sitting in my office worrying about what I'll find at home. I left the trash can in the living room and bucket in the garage under the drips just in case.

I won't be able to pix the leaks any time soon. Money is tight now that I'm on my own, but Larry has said he'll help by putting some tar on the leaks to try to stop it.

Lets pray we don't get a hurricane anytime soon.

I'll be sleeping with the fish ..literally.

P.S. Photos copyrighted by the Sun Sentinel. Shot by me when I was a shooter.

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth.

2008-09-25T09:32:00.000-07:00

I'm still alive and kicking, although a bit beaten up and shaky.

Why?

I'm not ready to go public with the reason, but lets just say it's very personal and life changing. The kids, Marc or I are not sick. But, our family dynamics are changing. I pray it's all for the best, but right now I'm just torn up inside about it.

Life loves to throw you fast balls and this one has hit me in the gut. But, like all good athletes know ... when your down or have lost a game, you pick youself up, learn from your mistakes and move forward always keeping an eye towards winning the next game, concouring the next race or just doing your best.

I'm trying hard to do my best in life. My wish list is simple:

Health and Happyness for my children and family
Peace in my life
Success for the people I love and for myself
To have people around me that love, respect and charish me for who I am

I have other wishes big and small, but these are on the top of my list.

What are some of your wishes in life?
What do you do to pick yourself up after you fall in life?

Things To Be Happy About

2008-09-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Recently at work I found a small, but thick book titled, 14,000 Things To Be Happy About.

I took it as a sign. Although my life at the moment is going through tribulation, there are things for me to be happy about.

Here are few things that make me happy (some are in this book as well):

Marc, Ashton, Austen and Dalton (when we're all in a good mood and behaving)
My Family
My Friends
A Wonderful Photograph
Doing a good job at work
The ocean on a hot day
Sleeping in on Sunday's (which I don't do often because Ashton loves to wake up early)
A wonderful dinner with a glass of Merlo from Chile
Shopping without worring about what things cost
A clean house
Clean cloths
Quite Times
Loving Words
Peace
Love

The list goes on and on. Sometimes I need to remember these things when my world feels like it's falling apart.