Defining the Fuzz

On this the fifth anniversary of September 11, I find myself listening to the replays and viewing the images of that day from five years ago. I am quite surprised at how many of the details, feelings and thoughts I experienced are coming back to me so vividly and clearly, yet I didn't remember them until today. Just hearing a phrase from a news reporter, or seeing a picture of the smoke and dust rising up into the sky line immediately restored the tension, the apprehension and the uncertainty from that day.

I know everybody has their own story and memories of that day, but for me I remember Brian just standing in front of the television at our house on Renwick in Glendora. Nolan had just started Kindergarten at Hope, and Aaron was 2. I only had a towel and undergarments on because I had just gotten out of the shower, and I joined him-just staring and watching the news coverage. It was so difficult to break away from the TV to even try and get dressed or get the kids ready because I was afraid I would miss something. After the first tower fell, I remember the overwhelming emotion of vulnerability-I wasn't safe anywhere.

Do I get dressed and take the kids to school and the babysitters? Do I go to work? Do I leave the house? Is the sky falling?

Then the news reports came in about several "unaccounted" planes flying around that could potentially be hijacked. I remember discussing with Brian if he was going to go in to work that day because his studio is so close to LAX.
(He did.)

I took the kids to school, and was comforted by speaking with other parents who were feeling just like me. It was so hard to leave Nolan there, not knowing how the rest of the day would unfold. I was trying to trust in the normalcy the teachers and parents were working to establish for the children, but fearful of leaving my son. I can only imagine how hard it was for the people in New York and the other cities who were actually right in the midst of it all and were trying to get to their children.

All the other days I would usually drive to work in a modified zombie state, but I actually remember that morning drive. The other drivers seemed more considerate- like we were all looking out for each other. We couldn't help our fellow Americans in New York, but everyone heading west on the 210 into Pasadena was going to get to their destination in one piece. I would occasionally look at the faces of the other people in their cars as I passed. Expressionless- concentrating on their radios or cell phone conversations.

At work, (Symes) I was surprised that it was a busy morning. (Don't you people have anything else to do than to get your Range Rovers detailed!!!) But, the normally "high maintenance" regulars were actually considerate and somewhat pleasant. No class delineation: we were all on the same level that day as we watched the news together on the showroom floor.

The rest of the day passed quickly as the news unfolded. Nolan told me his teacher, Mrs. Hall explained that today some airplanes flew into buildings and they prayed for all of the victims and their families. From that day on, Nolan has called 9/11 "the day the airplanes crashed into the buildings." Simple, but truthful and very effective.

I stopped at the mini market by our house and picked up the newspaper. I wanted to keep a printed memory of the day.
I was impressed at the thoroughness of the news coverage, but listening back I am aware of much misinformation which seemed true at the time.

Five years.
I'm saddened not only for the senseless loss of lives, but because I don't think our country has progressed much since that day. We have lost more freedoms and civil liberties in the name of security- one of the terrorist's goals.
I hope the memorial services and replays of the news coverage help to restore our collective nation's memories and define the fuzz of complacency, to help bring about some truly positive changes.

Happy Birthday Brian!!

My sweetie,
Each year brings new memories for us to enjoy and "get through" together.
I can't wait for more to come!

I am blessed to have you as my partner in life, and the father of our children.
love, sweetie

Happy Birthday Kush!!!

The big 6!!!

You continue to fill everyone around you with love, joy and smiles. I love your curiousity and sense of adventure!
I wish you much love and happiness
Auntie

I Should be doing something else...

like studying!!
(and trying to catch that half inflated mylar balloon left over from Jo's party floating behind me...)


instead, I suffer from a severe lack of motivation brought on by this:


it's Mr. Manual Muscle Testing!!!
Actually, his table looks pretty comfy, and normally, I am quite interested in this class and subject matter.
However, I can't muster the proper frame of mind to tackle it tonight.

so this is what I did...


Took adorable pictures of Jo,




and played with my kids.

I also wasted more time with these cute little games. Watch out for the slingball game... it's addicting!

Oh yeah, I caught up on my TIVO too.
Daily show, The Closer and Days of our Lives...
It was a good day.

Aaron's First "Rock" Concert

I love summertime for many reasons: the sunny skies, a cool dip in the pool, ice cream and picnics, and concerts in the park.
With that said, I have been negligent in attending recent said concerts, mainly because of Little Jo and her uncanny ability to easily slip out of my grasp and run, mesmorized, towards the playground equipment. This is a good thing, but, she's fearless-and this limits my attention towards the concert.

My best friend Kathy, being the awesome, hard working realtor extraordinaire that she is, sponsors a booth at the local park where the summer concerts are held. She invited us out to see the concert, a classic rock cover band, and to spend some time together and let the kids play. It sounded like fun, so I announced to the kids that we were going to a rock concert.

The kids had just finished swimming, and disapeared into their respective rooms to get dressed and prepare to leave for the show. Aaron emerged, just like the picture above, with his puka shell shark tooth necklace, skull print Vans shoes, Tiger Cub hat and wet hair slightly combed to the side. "Mom!," he shouted as he grabbed two jackets off of the coat rack, "do you like the brown (winter, heavy jacket)one or the leather (Nolan's leather bomber) jacket?"
"Oh my, that's a tough decision," I answered. "If this is for the concert, I would go with the black leather one."
"Uh huh, it is for the concert. I like that one too." and he ran off, satisfied that his mom thought the black one was cool too.

Next, he asked me if I had any black gloves. "Hmm, it's kind of hot today Aaron, do you really want to wear gloves?" I replied.
"Yes,they go with the jacket." He answered assuredly.
"Maybe Grandma Gayle has some you could borrow?" Dad suggested.

He ran across the street, and Grandma completed the outfit with the use of her exercise gloves.

I didn't want to spoil, or seem like I was "uncooling" the image he had created, so I asked him if I could take a quick picture because he looked so good.

He complied, and the result is posted above.
Note his foot-he wanted to pose so it looked like he was running.

My little double A is a gem through and through.

Oh, by the way, he wore this walking to the concert, but took off the jacket when we got there. The gloves, necklace and hat stayed on. He was beaming, and he said he enjoyed the concert too (the band's cover of the James Bond theme was his fav.)
It was a most excellent evening in the park. (Thanks Kath!)

I'm savoring this for many reasons, but mainly I think it's because when he gets older and starts sporting any potential combination of mohawk, tat's or piercings, I can whip out the photo and remember this little snippet of youthful innocence.

New Pics on Flickr

Check out our Disneyland trip!
Link at the side....
I have the pictures designated for friends and family only, so you need to create an account
with flickr to view them. It's free, and they don't spam or anything.
It makes me feel a little bit better about the whole cyberspace thing.
:)

Happy Birthday Josalyn!!!

It's true, she's two!
and- I think 13 is a very lucky number.

We celebrated with a small party of little ones and friends at the local
"MY GYM".
I will get some pics up really soon and some pics of the Disneyland trip too.

Also, Happy, Happy belated birthday to Tammy!
I hope you had an excellent day and celebrated doing all of the things you love.
Lots of love and wishes for a healthful, happy and memorable next year!!

I am going to try to write again on a regular basis.
I miss it- hopefully life will start to resume back to a somewhat normal basis post Anatomy class.
I swear, it's like some kind of weird, mild post traumatic stress going on. Like things are starting to slow down, and I feel like I am forgetting something or should be studying more.

Oh, by the way-got a solid "B".
Not too shabby.

Happy Birthday Nolan!!!!

...Ten years ago today you showed me what it means to have our own little family unit. My world has never been the same, and for that I am eternally grateful. You reflect all of the love that is shown to you by family and friends, and your wisdom beyond your young years still continues to impress me and make me thankful that I am a part of your world.

Enjoy your day- you're double digits now!!!

Really Quick...

New photos up at Flickr.... click on the link on the right under "Links" :)

Happy 4th of July!

Thanks Aunt Holly for the numerous Go Army! flags we placed in our front yard. The kids,Bri and I had a blast decorating with them and they look so festive!

Today finds me studying, swimming, studying, eating, playing Monopoly with family, helping Jo feed the turtle, watching Aaron ride his bike, studying and fireworks.



Yep, that's Aaron riding his bike without training wheels!!!!
Go Aaron!

I hope everyone has a relaxing, enjoyable holiday.

God Bless Our Native Land

God bless our native land,
Land of the newly free,
Oh may she ever stand
For truth and liberty.

God bless our native land,
Where sleep our kindred dead,
Let peace at thy command
Above their graves be shed.

God help our native land,
Bring surcease to her strife,
And shower from thy hand
A more abundant life.

God bless our native land,
Her homes and children bless,
Oh may she ever stand
For truth and righteousness.

Frances Ellen Watkins 1825-1911

Happy Belated Birthday Sister Stacy!!!!

It was on Monday, June 26th! I know she enjoyed it and it was celebrated with awesome Las Olas food and margaritas while
camping!!!
Much love, and wishes for another year of joy, love, laughter, family and good health.

Things I learned this week: Week 2

-Week 2 is harder than week 1 (learned brachial plexus plus all roots, trunks, divisions, cords and branches... arteries... etc)
-that it IS possible to get an A on a test in this class!!!! ("A" on my practicum, B on the written test) whoo hoo!!
-I don't learn very well in a large group study environment... I prefer to study on my own, or with a few other people
-I missed my family A LOT!!! (they went camping and I stayed home)
-My son Aaron can ride a bike!!!
-Cars with any form of "Raiders" or "Raider Nation" anywhere on them=HORRIBLE DRIVER!!! (and, their skill level IS in direct proportion to the size of the window/bumper sticker/license plate frame) meaning, the larger the sticker=the more horrible the driver!! (on the 10east I see quite a few everyday)
-I appreciate my husband, kids, family and friends more and more each day for their love, support and their belief in my abilities.

Am I getting used to it...

or succumbing to the insanity??!!! (is succumbing even a word??)

This week:
New TA (teacher's assistant)-responsible for teaching our little group of 4 EVERYTHING on the cadeaver.
If you get a good one, you're set. A bad one... I shudder to think.

Mike seems great this week. Very patient, very methodical, very repetitive- perfect for memorization and identification.
Last week we had Eliane and she ROCKED!!!

Brachial plexus, blood flow from the arteries (straight from the aorta) down to the hands, and all of the innervations to go along with the muscles are coming at me to be tested on for Friday.

I miss my family- Brian and the kids are away camping at San Elijo, so I am 'batchin it this week.

;( but, lots of studying going on.

She ain't no Hollaback Girl!

I'm Back!!! What a week...

-Whew!

Really quick... Things I accomplished last week:

-Started my 9 unit, immersion Clinical Anatomy class at Loma Linda University
-Met 10 new friends, and 4 amazing women
-Donned gloves, touched cadeavers and learned the origin, insertion, innervation and action of 12 upper body muscles
-Got tested on said muscles etc... and passed!!! (High B, low B) There were TWO tests, mind you!
-Learned I really don't need 8 hours of sleep to function on some sort of conscious level AND that...
-A 38 year old woman with 3 kids can keep up AND kick the butts of much younger students!

Little Jo also discovered her shadow this week!
She is jumping around, trying to kick the ground with one foot while she stares at it.
More to come-

Also, Hi Gramps and Grams up in the Redwoods!!! Much love!

A Man of Incredible Faith

Today I had the privilege of visiting a friend of mine. Unfortunately, he is in the hospital right now for tests to determine why he is suddenly paralyzed.
I won't go into much detail about his identity or his health concerns due to his privacy (hey, ya never know who is reading this in cyberspace...) but I went to see how his spirits were, and to "cheer him up" I suppose.

Instead, I ended up walking away a better person -for having shared time with him, and listening to his incredible testimony and faith in the belief that he will be healed, and that this period of time in his life is meant to achieve a higher final purpose.

I learned about his life after the war, and how he lived it with a surprising medical issue which affects his lung capacity.
He told me this after he finished his excruciating physical therapy exercises, and was breathless and struggling for a regular breathing rhythm. He also told me that he knows whatever happens is God's will, and that he is determined to live for Him and whatever is in store for his future. The only time he showed the slightest bit of fear, was in speaking about his wife, and how he wanted to make sure she is cared for.

I suddenly felt small, and so very aware of my faults-but thankful to be filled with his wisdom and shared spirituality.

These kind of days make my heart so tender, and fill the core of my soul with admiration, love and respect for all the people fighting battles everyday and winning-maybe not the battle of their bodies, but the war - the impact their presence here on earth that these warriors make.

And we are all the more better for it.

A Little Fish in a Big Pond

Today I registered for school at Loma Linda University.

The process was effortless, except for the walk around campus in the hot, San Bernardino sun. I had to clear two holds on my registration- a health clearance and a transcript clearance. I had been on campus before- but only to Nichols Hall, which houses the school of Allied Health and my major, Occupational Therapy.

I parked in a dirt and gravel lot because it did not require a permit. There was a little shuttle bus waiting to take people to the campus or the hospital. I elected to walk, so I could get acquainted with the school grounds. When I entered the campus, I immediately felt at ease- like this is where I am supposed to be. I found the health center and got my health clearance AND my first Hepatitis shot. (A coincidence too- my nurse's name was Christine!) I left the health center and walked south up Anderson Blvd to the Student Services Center.

At the Student Center, a lovely woman went to her boss so that I could have clearance and complete registration today, even though my final transcripts weren't in. It was meant to be!
I have credit on my student account for books and food (well, it's a loan, it has to be paid back, but it's there!) and I even got my student badge which makes me look like I am official in some sort of capacity. (hee hee)

Leaving the center, what struck me as interesting, were the buildings around me, and how they were right out of the 50's and 60's- complete with mosaic tile frontage and ornate rod iron gates and decor. I loved it! Every building had a use or a purpose. I had to use the restroom off of one of the older buildings, and the room had a fresh coat of paint, new sink and toilets outfitted entirely sanitary with sensor flushing and hands free paper towel dispenser. (can you tell I was impressed?)

There is a grocery store, beauty and hair salon and shoe repair on campus as well. I'm sure this is to serve the needs of the families of Loma Linda patients, as well as the faculty and students.

As I left the Risk Management building (I have to get insurance...) the sound of a helicopter flying low so that it could land on the helipad at the hospital, pierced the afternoon sky.
It was so booming and deep that it set off a few car alarms in the vicinity. At that moment I thought of Mt. Sac, and how I no longer would be attending there, and how the only thing that would even come close to that sound on their campus would be a tricked out "hooptie" car trying to find a parking space with their bassy music blaring.

And then it hit me- this is my "grown up" career. I have been preparing for this my whole life it seems. Sure, I took classes and thought I had decided on a path for my life, but this is really it and I'm starting now. I can't compare this to being a mom, because I ALWAYS knew I wanted to be a mom, and that is who I am to my core and essence- it is my identity and I show it proudly. But, as far as a job, or my chance to apply my talents (hopefully) and traits, this is where I hope to contribute to society again.

And that feels good. Bring it on!

Happy Birthday Dad!

Happy Birthday to my father, Bill!

I hope you are celebrating and having some awesome Mexican food at Hugo's.
Lots of love going out to you.

The kids had an excellent time camping, and it was a fun trip.
I will try to get some pictures up and posted on flickr.

More later-

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

God bless all of the veterans, their families and the fine people who made it their choice in life (and death) to defend our way of life in this country.
These freedoms are such a part of who we are, that unfortunately,it is easy sometimes to overlook the sacrifices our
veterans made so we could live in a nation where we can speak our minds without fear of reprisal.

Our family is off to celebrate the holiday by good, old fashioned camping!
We do indulge in some modern conveniences, like a pop-up trailer, sleeping bags and propane!
Be back on Tuesday with some pics.

Grey-O

Back in January, my oldest son Nolan started to watch American Idol on a regular basis.
B and I joined in, while Aaron was content to read or watch intermittently. Nothing big, just something to do together on a Tuesday and Wednesday evening. We each had our favorites: mine was Elliot, B liked Katherine, and Aaron didn't care much.

As the contestants got voted off, Nolan kept expressing his belief that a certain contestant was the best, and he liked the way he sang. He also liked how he was different from the others because of his grey hair.
Nolan christened him with the nickname "Grey-O".

The other kids at school didn't think Grey-O would win- he wasn't cool enough, or his grey hair wasn't what everybody else had.

We had to explain to Nolan what "Soul Patrol" meant: if you have soul, it is something that is deep inside you- it can't be faked or processed- it is what and who you are- to your essence and core.

Well, I just want to say: keep believing Nolan, or as Taylor Hicks said when he won American Idol, "I'm livin' the American Dream!"

Of course, If you ask me- I'm not a fan... "wink"

Picture of the Day

Aaron on the way back from his special chapel service at school today.

This kid's got a smile- it blows me away.

Poof! My heart's gone...

Let me just say...

Taylor is the next American Idol, ok?
You know why? Because I stayed up an hour PAST the time our Tivo'd show ended (which means it was 10:00pm)
and voted.
No, not once; not even five times, but TEN TIMES!!!
And I'm not even a fanatic.
Although, Bri and I did agree that out of all of the seasons, we could see ourselves buying the CD,
and,gulp, taking Nolan and Aaron to the American Idol live show.
Nolan was excited to hear this, and wants the CD also.

Fun times ahead.

A Day of Bests

What a great day on Saturday!

Just the kind of day where you sleep in the right amount, everyone is feeling good and happy, and the day was full of sunshine, friends, family and laughter.

I had a lovely chat with my Grandmother- I really long to see her and my family up in Oregon.
The kids went swimming, and Josalyn learned to drive her big brother's MOTORIZED bumper boat, complete with firing the water gun too.
My mom and Chris watched the kids for B and me so we could visit and enjoy dinner with our dear friend Karen. We also had the pleasure of catching up and visiting with her two sisters, Denise and Cheryl, and seeing our good friend Vida and her husband Troy. Such a splendid time! The margaritas were tasty (too tasty!), the food was delicious and the company was even better.

Again, what a great day!

My layered memories

I was watching the kids swim this early evening, and I couldn't help noticing how different they looked in the water, and how their moves were the moves of older kids. My Mom in law, Gayle, had made this remark to me also when she saw Nolan, Kayah, Aaron and Kush in the water together. I realized that the memories I had of them swimming now needed to be replaced with a newer version- the version of which I observed today.

Nolan is longer and leaner, with small, defined muscles on his shoulders and legs. He can hold his breath underwater for a very long time, and loves to watch the world of underwater motion with his mask firmly in place on his face.

Kayah is confident and strong. She is also very graceful with her swimming movements, and was holding Kush on her shoulders as the kids played "chicken fight". Her hair is extremely beautiful when it is wet.

Aaron is out in the deep end all of the time, doing flips underwater and swimming back and forth from the shallow end to the deep end. He is more social, and enjoys playing with other children he just met, engaging in imaginary games they make up for the water.

Kush-I see such a difference! He is tall and slender and swims with meaning and a purpose. He ventures out to the deep end continously unassisted. He can climb effortlessly upon Kayah's shoulders, or onto the boogie board in a mock surfing pose.

And did I mention Josalyn? I remember her as a 10-12 month old baby, in a swim diaper- only in the water because an adult holds her and swims around with her. Now, she wears a purple swimsuit with built in floaties, and sits on the steps in the shallow end. She loved the water as Aunt Stacy held her and swam her around in circles, the water running over her little shoulders and splashing her face. Her face is beaming with a smile as wide as the pool.

And so this summer, I prepare to add another layer to my memories of the children. Not replacing the layers underneath, but adding a new layer of remembrance over them.

Just like a tree. Hopefully, when I am older- I can recall each layer individually, with the clarity and emotion intact.

Have I mentioned how much I love my new camera?

Well, if I have, I apologize for repeating myself, but I LOVE IT!

Here are some wacky, random shots:

This is a spiderweb under a bridge at Big Dalton Canyon in Glendora



Nolan's ant farm.

I will try to post some more on Flickr soon.
Happy Thursday!

Goodbye Mt. Sac!

Well, after a decade at Mt. Sac (not consistently, but over the span!!) three changes in my major and an imaginary A.S. degree,
I took my last final exam this morning!
I don't know if it was the shingles, or the reality, but my tummy hurt. It went well hopefully.
Now, a short break and then onward to Loma Linda starting June 19th.

We are also having the mulberry tree taken out of our backyard. I am glad because it is extremely messy, but I am sad too because it gave us great shade, birds dug it, and the cats would climb it. It is going to take some getting used to. Also, I feel like in this world of concrete, wires, steel and plaster, it is one more elimination of something breathing and natural. But, I know we will choose another awesome tree that we can watch grow and become a part of our family history.

It's the circle of life.

Happy Mother's Day!

Love to all the moms!!!!

Hey, for fun- if you are reading this, sign in and post a comment so we can all see
who is here in cyberspace!
Just go to post a comment, sign in and write a message!

I'll start...

Pool Draining Day

Jo enjoying the pool water, and of course the boat!



The kids have the best time just playing with the water draining from the hose, and chasing it down the street gutter.
They made lego men boats complete with note attached.

Oh, and here's Josalyn with her glasses:


She needs a shirt that says,"ROCK STAR!!"

Happy early Mother's Day!

Happy Friday!

I am looking forward to the weekend. Of course, I feel like I haven't done much of anything this week
except work on recuperating. I hope I can take a break from my "work" this weekend.

Brian took the day off, and he is messing with his recording equipment. He is so cute when he gets in his "zone."

The boys are at school, Jo is napping and it's another beautiful (but sort of hazy) day.

Uh oh, I hear Jo stirring.

Break time over.

Jo Speak

Josalyn's vocabulary is expanding everyday, and she is starting to string words together.
She also uses the proper intonation, so it is ultra adorable!
Some of her sentences include:

"Kiki go bye-bye" (uttered while watching Tom and Jerry cartoons- I can only imagine what happened to poor Tom that caused her to say that)

"Sshh, mama night-night"

"mohr-mohr," (after her second bowl of cereal)

"Mama, come, durty" (she didn't like something)

Just wanted to remember this.

At the boy's school they have a fundraiser going, which consists of buying a ticket for a free dress day (they don't have to wear their uniform.)
I purchased two tickets, and I gave Aaron his ticket to present to his teacher, Mrs. Schaar. Aaron gave his ticket to her, and she exclaimed," Oh, my- this is valuable, more valuable than gold!"

Aaron beamed and got back in the van. As he shut the door, Nolan piped up from the back seat,"Actually, gold is $400.00
dollars an ounce right now."

New Pictures

Pictures of our Temecula trip are posted over at Flickr.

Such a superb weekend.

Happy Birthday Jamie!!!

Birthday wishes to my little brother Jamie today!
I hope you are doing something fun and enjoying your special day today.

Here is a fun shot I took of me and little Jo- she created more body art.


(excuse my bare midriff- rash therapy :) )

I finally finished a scrapbook page I was working on. I have had trouble concentrating lately and sitting still-
I like it though- I think it is because of the colors, and of course, the kids.



Happy Wednesday!!!

Hello, it's been awhile...

-Boy, I didn't realize it has been so long since I touched my blog.
OK, back to writing SOMETHING everyday.

I have been dealing with the Varicella Zoster virus for the last week, or as I like to call it, my new acquaintance- "Shingles".

New experiences of uncomfortableness (is that a word?) and new sensations of pain.

Hopefully, I am on the upside of down with this.

Onward- I have my PE final tomorrow. This consists of writing a paper, and taking a scantron test regarding exercise, body composition, muscles and healthy habits.

My medical terminology final is a week from today.

Then a short break and THE BIG TIME.

Come on pain pill, kick in...

Jo's First Haircut

I took Josalyn for her first haircut yesterday, the 28th. She did great! I took her to a place called Kool Kuts in Rancho Cucamonga (the drive took longer than the haircut!)
It was worth it, because I didn't know if she would sit still or try climbing out of the chair. The salon has little cars for chairs, and a tv monitor with videos for the children to watch.
Jo watched Elmo, and looked down and sat still when she was asked. She even got a gal haircutter whose name began with a J! (Juliana).

It all clicked.

Aaronisms

Definition: clever sayings, adorable phrases or unique words that my seven year old first grader has uttered in the last few days.

Aaron: "Why is there a PET show if this place is called SEA world??!"

Aaron: (as Nolan hands his cousin Kayah a jellybean) "Is that fruity-tutti?"

Aaron: (as he climbs in the van and is surprised to see his cousins Kush and Kayah inside) "Whoa, I knew you were in here,
my Kush sense was tingling..."

Happy Birthday Gayle!!!

Also, a cyberspace belated wish to my Mom (4/15) and Chris (4/16). Things were hectic last week and we had a quick celebration.

Today was an extraordinary day in Santa Monica! Gayle, Stacy, Kush, Kayah and I attended the Gregory Colbert photography and film exhibition entitled, "Ashes and Snow" in the Nomadic Museum at the Santa Monica Pier.

Colbert shot film footage and photographs of humans and animals together, in ways that are simply unimaginable- precise split second imagery of falcons, eagles, whales, cheetahs, elephants and primates alongside of men, women and children in seeming harmony.

The exhibition was literally breathtaking- it was a totally sensory experience- with music, exquisite lighting, and natural materials surrounding the showcasing of the photography. The photography was superb- not only was the subject matter
brilliantly portrayed, but the overall color, tones and material the pictures were printed on (rice paper) all contributed to the
effect.

Some photographs moved me to misty eyes- my favorite being a portrait of two children sitting on the ground with the roots of a tree enveloping them. Their eyes are closed, and on either side of the tree roots are a single elephant, posed as if they too are protectors. One elephant's trunk follows the contour of the tree root perfectly, and the other elephant's trunk is raised regally in the air. Spectacular! My description doesn't even do it justice.

Afterwards, we had lunch on the beach and watched the kids play in the surf. The air was warm and filled with the sounds of the boardwalk rides in full swing on the pier.

Ashes and Snow

Pictures

There are still generous people in the world-

Proof- meet Mr. Quinn, Geology teacher at Glendora High School. Tonight he led Pack 490 in an interesting,hands on lab cutting their own geode rocks. He answered their questions patiently, and at the end of the presentation, the boys were able to keep the rocks they cut, plus he raffled off some of his own rocks. Nolan and Aaron both won beautiful Onyx, Jasper and Sandstone rocks that they are thrilled with. When it was time to leave, he presented Josalyn with an 1884 Morgan Silver Dollar!
I have never seen one before, and the boys were ecstatic.
They are now collecting rocks and coins with a newfound zeal.

Thanks for sparking their imaginations Mr. Quinn!

(Karen, Dan...) Teachers Rock!!!!

Jo the Artist

Jo created some beautiful designs on my sliding glass door, as well as some hand tattoos.

She is very serious about her art...

Thank goodness for cameras and windex!

Conversations with Aaron

Me: What is your favorite food, Aaron? Is it pasta?
Aaron: No, that is my second favorite- my first favorite is shrimp.
Me: So then shrimp and pasta is the best, right?
Aaron: YES!!! that would be my new first.


Aaron: I think we should take a trip, um maybe to New York.
Me: Oh, that's a great idea! What would we do there?
Aaron: Oh, I don't know, maybe go to the Statue of Liberty, walk around the streets and the hotel. See things.
Or we could go to Florida.
Me: That's where Disneyland is!
Aaron: No, that's where Disney WORLD is, not Disneyland...

Aaron: I like my shoes, they are like my dad's...

We have the best talks.

Happy Day after Easter!

See, I try to be different- instead of a Happy Easter wish, it's the day after.... ok, so I missed posting yesterday.

Easter is my favorite holiday, and Spring is my favorite season. I think it is because of my faith, and the sense of renewal
and new life. I love the bulb flowers like tulips and daffodils, the church music and especially the clear skies and warmer weather.

My Dad and Pat came out and spent the weekend with us, and we had a blast. We went to dinner, spent time together
playing outside when the day warmed up, and later we had a delicious meal. I miss them already.

Keeping you in my thoughts ever so much this week Mom!

I will try to post some pics of the weekend-the kids are on spring break this week so I am an events coordinator too.

Aaron's Favorite Animals

In order:

1)Turtles (no surprise here :) )
2)Tigers
3)Snakes

Just wanted to remember.

Jo's Body Art

It's a hot day so she has lots of canvas space!

I was at Trader Joe's earlier in the day and Jo proudly showed the art on one of her arms.
The sales clerk admired her handiwork and suggested that one of her future employment endeavors could possibly be a tattoo artist!

God Bless Satellite Radio!

Well, I know I sound excited, but where else can you hear
Olivia Newton John and Electric Light Orchestra performing
the hit "Xanadu" from 1980???!!!!

One of those "takes you back instantly" moments where the neurons fire and go straight to your memory database to give you a bright, vivid mental image of exactly where you are and what you are doing when you heard that song back in the day.

In my case, it is my stepsister Tammy and I (all of 13 and 14 years old) dancing around her room, singing and watching our moves in her fully mirrored closet doors.

We are invincible and we have the moves...

Another cool link

click here

Does Faith=Entitlement?

As Easter approaches, I tend to think about my faith and spirituality more in depth, and how it applies to everyday living.
There are always situations that arise where you put your beliefs in action. I believe,as an integral part of my faith, that we develop a working set of character traits and gifts through faith, and that we use them when we interact with others. As a result, we bear witness to our faith-sharing with each other, and showing them how we choose
to live life with the positive values that we hold dear.

Sometimes I find myself in conflict with other believers and how they view the world and the people in it.
Without going into too much detail, I feel confused when people call themselves Christians and feel they are better
than "the others." The others would pertain to unbelievers, the "poor" (big discussion on what that means in and of
itself) and anyone else who doesn't believe what they believe. It is like there is a sense of entitlement with the word.

Isn't a big part of our faith to accept and love others unconditionally, and to try and show to one another the love our Father
showed us on Easter Sunday? The word compassion is defined as: "the humane quality of understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do something about it." Usually, compassion is thought of as being applied to someone "less fortunate" than ourselves. I realized today that it doesn't have to be that way. Maybe I should apply it to the "fortunate" too.

Hey, I'm just trying to understand.

Happy Birthday Kathy!!!

My best friend of many, many years~

The lunches we share are awesome! Even if it just grabbing a sandwich and chasing kids.

NASA Picture of the Day

Out of this world pictures

A Good Book

I am reading a very interesting book entitled, "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon.

It gives a rare look into the mind of a person with autism, and how they view the world. It is fascinating, because you can't help but compare it to your own viewpoint and compare/contrast how they see things and go about their day to day life.

One of my favorite quotes in the book comes from the main character, Christopher, a 15 year old boy.
He is asked by his teacher if he feels sad about a past event, and he says to her, "Mother is dead and Mr. Shears isn't around anymore. So I would be feeling sad about something that isn't real and doesn't exist and that would be stupid."

I thought that was so simple, yet so profound. Granted, autism is considered a disability, but that quote still reminded me how easy it is to complicate things and muddle them up with
"what if's" or "supposed to's" or "need to."


I love the straightforward, truth only outlook of this "special needs" boy.
I think this might serve to clarify my career decision...

Happy Birthday Kayah!

Happy 9th Birthday to my Niece, Kayah!
We had a fun evening and we loved your party.
Pics over at Flickr.

Also, Saturday night we had an excellent time with our friend Karen.
Thanks for coming out K!

I added a few more pics over at Flickr.

I added a link to the side here--->
and I also changed the viewing profile to friends and family.

You may have to register to view them now because they are not
designated public. It is free to register and they shouldn't spam you
or anything.

Let me know if it's a hassle or if it works out ok. In this day and age of WORLD wide web,
public just seems too big for me.

I will try to get some more up soon. I'm having a blast with my new camera!

It's Raining Again.

Yep, still raining. It is good for the earth and the snowpack, but it's freezing!
(yes, 42 is freezing to me!)

B got his sabbatical approved, so he has almost three months off over the summer.
That will be awesome for him and for the kids too.
I start school in June, so it will be nice to know they can stay with Dad.
Hopefully, we can go somewhere or do an outing or two.

I am getting a little nervous about school as it approaches.
I asked one of my professors for some words of advice to prepare for my first class-9 units of anatomy on a cadaver.

He said to go all out, make sure you are committed and to not come home until your studying is caught up.
I don't know if I can go for that last suggestion, but I am prepared for the ever familar "up until 2am studying" thing.

Our dear friend Karen is coming out for dinner this weekend. I can't wait!!!

Instead of "Wine and Cheese" it's "Whine and Sneeze"...

-B and I were supposed to go to Temecula for a romantic wine tasting and relaxation get away weekend.
Instead we are home with our kids.

Little Jo is sick and needs breathing treatments for her asthma. She coughs until she vomits. Nolan came home from school and was disapointed that we weren't gone.

I can't think of a better place to be. It makes me appreciate what we have, and I am ever so grateful that our family helps out and is so encouraging.

Of course, me and B had a glass of wine and watched the first season of "The Office" tonight, so that helped too. :)

"OWWWW..."

That's what Little Jo says when she sees my moles on my back.
For some reason she is FASCINATED with them, especially when I lean over the tub to draw her bath.
She will make it a point to come up to me, lift up the back of my shirt and touch them-
all the while saying," Owwwww..."

It cracks me up.

I'm Slow Today.

Just thought I'd share that.
Sorry I've been slacking in my posts- It's been a busy week (all good stuff!)
B and I are going away to Temecula for a wine tasting/relaxation weekend.
I am looking forward to it.
I went on a field trip with Nolan to the San Gabriel Mission on Wednesday.
I will try to get that together in the days to come.

Life is not about the moments we breath, but the moments that take our breath away-

I had the most excellent telephone conversation today with a friend of mine from church.
She is in her late seventies, and her energy rivals mine on a GOOD day.

I felt like I was instilled with little nuggets of wisdom- maybe some of the words don't apply much to me right now, but I'm sure one day I will remember what was said and bring it to the forefront of my brain to put them to good use.

She was telling me about a woman she visits on a regular basis. This woman is 104 years old, has failing eyesight, and lives on her own. My friend told me that the woman said to her on her last visit, "When you are here, I can see sunshine."

Let's all be someone's sunshine...

Where did the week go?

Oh my gosh, I can't believe it's Thursday night already.
Yay weekend!

It was an absolutely beautiful day today- in the high 70's with a slight breeze.
Right around dusk, I got a faint glimpse of summertime- the evening
breezes were blowing and it was still light outside and warm.
Perfect swimming weather!

I'm so ready for daylight savings time.

Oh, and if you have extra time...

This is a pretty cool blog about Disneyland and how they are trying to recreate the "spark" that's missing...

Some great classic pictures of the park too.

New Pics on Flickr

-I keep trying to get more up there!
:)

Pachyderms on Parade

I enjoy living in close proximity to the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds.

On any given weekend, you can tell what event is going on, just by driving on Arrow Highway and checking out the vehicles sharing the road with you. Some days it's classic cars or other days it's the drag races. Today, it was beautiful, custom gigantic motor homes.

They were in single file in the slow lane, one after another, with their Honda CVXs or Toyota Rav 4s in tow behind. It reminded me of those scenes in cartoons or movies where the elephants are marching slowly in a row, with their babies behind them holding onto their tails.

Each coach was exquisite and individual, with gold, brown, silver, blue, stunning metallic paint jobs and custom airbrushed pictures of lions, cheetah, jaguars and other regal animals in full view on the back of the motorhome. But what impressed upon me the most was that their extra vehicle matched their coaches paint job! They were color coordinated, just like a clothing outfit.

The scene served to remind me that there are so many wonders in this world, and endless possibilities available to enjoy them. You just have to get out there and do it. I hope that when Mr. B and I are older, like most of the drivers I saw today, that we too have the presence of mind, health, and the opportunity to pursue the adventures out there.

Family Motor Coach Association

Catching up-and Pres'kit snow!

I am on Spring Break this week so I had a chance to catch up on organizing and posting some photos.

Head on over and check them out-

There are also some cool snow photos my Pop sent.

I got bit by the bug

-the scrapbooking bug, that is!

It all started innocently enough at a scrapbooking night at My Gym.
Now, my best friend Kathy and I are searching shops for sales and picking out coordinating paper stock.

It is fun!
I have completed one small book about our family, and the next book will be about our camping trips.

I even Tivo'd a DIY network show...
I enjoy the time with Kathy, and it is fun to see how best friends can stay together over 30+ years due to their
changing, but similar interests.

My Husband was on the Oscars last night...

-well at least his visual effects nominated shot from Chronicles of Narnia was!

When they were announcing the nominees for the best Visual Effects category for 2005,
they showed a clip from Chronicles of Narnia.
It was the battle scene, and it was Brian's shot!

Whoo Hoo Mr. B!
You rock!

Girl Scout Cookies...

...are a worthy opponent and a formidable enemy!!

Look at them sitting there, so innocent looking, yet so yummy...

Lemon Coolers Rock! (actual size shown!) :)

What would your cells sound like if they could "talk"?

My medical terminology class is always interesting. I think it is a combination of my instructor and his gruff demeanor
(his last memorable quote to the class was, "It's easier to start an asshole and get nicer, than to start nice and become an asshole...) and the vast array of films and pictures we view which illustrate the various medical conditions and procedures we are learning about.

The film we watched in class was about a man who had Parkinson's disease. His hands and legs shook excessively with uncontrollable tremors. His last opportunity for some semblance of a normal life was an intricate and delicate brain surgery, during which he would be awake and required to talk and move. This type of neurosurgery is called sterotactic surgery, and basically involves the surgeon inserting a probe into the patient's brain through a hole in his skull. The goal is to reach a portion of the brain called the subthalamus, which houses most of the cells that lack the proper chemical to dissipate the muscle contractions and tremors. When this area is reached, the probe burns, or lesions, the brain tissue -killing it- and the tremors subside or ease up.

There are some images and pictures available to help guide the surgeon in the proper placement of the probe, but the primary method the surgeon used was "mapping" the brain using frequencies produced from the electrode. Where do these frequencies come from? That is the fascinating part- the electrodes pick up the electrical impulse that is created when the nerve cell fires a command either from the sensory cell to the brain, or from the brain back down to the muscle. It showed the ossicilations and waves from each impulse on a screen, as well as the audible "buzz" that the cells make when the impulse is picked up.

As the probe is inserted deeper in the brain, each layer of tissue has different cells for different functions, and each cell makes a different frequency and sound. It was amazing! The patient would move his fingers, and the pattern on the screen was an individual moment in time of his cells working to make that function happen, with its own sound and shape.
The surgeon could then find his way based on interpreting these patterns and sounds, and where they fit in for each tissue level. One surgeon interviewed said it was like overhearing various conversations on the subway, but being able to understand them. He also said it was sometimes spooky when they picked up radio waves on the electrodes and could hear music or broadcasts through the patient.
The surgery was successful and enabled the patient to have a considerable amount of improvement in his range of motion and freedom in his lifestyle.

But it got me thinking:
maybe some form of "mind reading" is possible-
If machines can pick up on our cells and how they "talk", why couldn't other humans who are exceptionally sensitive with their cells and how they "talk" and "listen" do the same thing?

Also, isn't it sad how cells, (the most basic building blocks of who we are) can "talk" and communicate-but human beings who are made of millions of these cells coming together to form spectacular body systems,( one of which is motor function) which enables us to process thoughts, move our jaw, articulate our tongues and vocal cords to produce words, can't talk to each other?

Maybe I should be a science fiction writer...

Survivorman-and Turtles!

There is a show we just started watching on the Science Channel called, "Survivorman".
The premise involves a man who is dropped blindly into various wilderness situations for seven days
and needs to live off the land, create shelter and find food-all to survive.

B, myself and the boys watched enthralled, cuddling on the couch.
It was all very interesting-until Survivorman announced he was hungry and was going to make a trap
to catch catfish, frogs or a...gulp...turtle!

Well, this didn't sit very well with Aaron, (who has a pet red eared slider turtle named Mr. Stripes).
"What do you mean he is going to catch a turtle? He's not going to eat it- Ahhwwww..."

"Maybe he'll catch a catfish" I said, hopefully. The next scene showed Survivorman's trap with, what else, a turtle.

Quick edit, and the next shot shows a turtle foot roasting over the open flames.

Aaron started to cry.

As the show progressed, Aaron dried his tears. Survivorman spoke about how the long, dark, cold nights made him lonely and he wished for his family.
"He should get a pet turtle!" Nolan suggested dryly.

B and I had a good laugh over that one.

Throughout the show Survivorman cooked various wild culinary delights such as frog, rattlesnake and the turtle.
But he was still hungry. He spoke about trying to catch a catfish, or perhaps a turtle, or another frog or fix the trap to accomodate another turtle.

"He said turtle two times!!!" Aaron said dismayed.

Mr. Stripes is a very lucky pet.

You Wish You Could Take Their Pain Away...

-For any parent who has had a sick child;
whether terminal, illness, the common cold
or watching your child get immunizations.

You would switch places in a heartbeat.

Right now Aaron has strep throat and he definitely
is not himself.
His throat is bright red with white spots, and his neck is
lumpy.
He's lethargic, but not cranky.
I love his spirit.

The View from Robin Way's Front Yard...

I love winter in California!
That was some cold rain.

Pictures of Aaron's Birthday Party

Thanks to everyone who made it such a special day for Aaron!

Here is a link to the pictures...

Happy Birthday Aaron!!

Seven years ago today my baby Spikes was born!

Happy Birthday Aaron,
We all love you!

Warning! The following link is educational and fun:

(The title is the link)

Be prepared to spend some time and trip out on
the illusions!
Lots of fun. Mr. Nolan found this site.

The matchstick game could be addicting...

Sometimes there is a comfort in nothing to say....

-Life has been good this past week.
Wait- I mean, it's been life.

Ups and downs, sometimes mostly downs,
but there is a comfort in knowing that it's normal.

If things were good all the time, how would you know how good it feels when it's really good?

You need the bad as a benchmark, a sort of indicator how to gauge the good times.

It helps to remind how lucky we really are, and how good we really have it.

I mean HOW GOOD we really have it...

God Bless,

Grandparents Day at Hope Lutheran 2006

Grandparents and Special Friends Day is a yearly tradition at the boys' school.
This year they were lucky enough to have Grandma Gayle and Grandma Leigh,
as well as cousins Kayah and Kush in attendance for them.

The children sang special songs and recited poems they wrote.
Nolan also read stories he had written about his grandparents,
complete with illustrations.

I feel so fortunate to have such loving, committed and truly caring grandparents in my children's lives.

So, for all of the grandparents: a heartfelt THANK YOU
for being who you are, and having such a profound and respected influence on them.
The love continues each day...

"What children need most are the essentials that grandparents provide in abundance. They give unconditional love, kindness, patience, humor,
comfort, lessons in life.
And, most importantly, cookies."
~Rudolph Giuliani

Mmmm, Tea...

I know that sounds like a strange subject, but I am sitting here with a cup of warm peppermint tea,
and I tell ya,
-it tastes mighty good!

I can remember my mom had a nightly ritual: put a kettle on the stove, wait until it whistles,open up a Lipton black tea bag and put it in a mug, pour the steaming hot water over the bag and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, the sugar, milk and saucer.

Oh yes, don't forget the cookies!

Good memories...

Don't Worry, Bee Happy!!!

Who says Halloween isn't in January...


Watch out for that stinger!

We Have to Push the Chairs in Now...

Yes, it's true, we have to push all of the chairs in under the table as of today.

Why? Miss Josalyn has learned to pull herself up onto the chair and go from a stomach crawl on the chair to a standing
position on top of the chair. But wait- she didn't stop there.

She is the first of my three children to actually step up onto the table and stand there, smiling proudly at me.

How do I know this? I watched her do it today, each step of the way thinking,
"I'm going to leave her alone and see how far she gets...she can't possibly-"

That is the last time I let that pass through my mind as far as she is concerned,(or my boys too! )

I Love My Moccasins!

Thank you Grandpa Bill and Grandma Pat!

Oh, and we all know that...


She does Rock!!!
Thank you Emmy and Kayah for the awesome shirt!

Here is my Husband...

Jammin' at the Press last Saturday night with his band,
The Stolen 58's...
(Drummers Rock!)