THE PAGNOZZI FAMILY

SO PROUD OF MY LITTLE BOY!!!!

2012-01-26T12:02:00.000-08:00

We are so proud of our little boy. He has been doing great in school!! Kohrville elementary had an awards ceremony for the end of the semester. Ricky received A honor roll and principals (citizenship) award for his great behavior. Also, the students pick/vote for 2 students from each class to get a Coyote award. I'm proud to say that Ricky received the award. This is what his friends said about him. He always follows the rules. Ricky raises his hand to talk or answer questions and he is nice to his classmates.

I can't stress enough what an amazing kid Ricky II is. I'm so blessed to be his mom.

So proud that he won!!

Up on stage with all the other Coyote winners

MONUMENTAL DAY!!!!

2012-01-22T18:49:00.000-08:00

Today has been a great day for the kids. Great mile stones have been learned.
For Hana, she has learned to rider her bike with out training wheels. This is the 2nd day we really practiced. We practiced about 2 weeks ago on afternoon. Today we tried again and she took off very quickly!!!! We were in the culdasac and her friend, Makayla, who just recently learned gave us some amazing advice. Peddle and look forward. It worked like a charm. So proud of her.
She also sang her whole alphabet with out any mistakes!!! Such a smart girl.

Ricky's monumental thing today was........ (drum roll please)........ learning how to tie his shoes. He was a little frustrated and didn't want to, but I was not letting him quit. He learned pretty quickly. It's his new favorite thing to do now. He could even do it with his eyes closed!!!!

(pics to come later)

Hana's 1st Pedicure!!

2012-01-08T19:17:00.000-08:00

Today Hana received her 1st professional pedicure. No more daddy or mommy painting nails. She stepped it up a notch. We have Aunt Vlady to thank for this. Who asked to take Hana for a pedicure with her today. I just happened to go and get pampered too.
I loved seeing her excitement at every stage. From picking out her nail polish color to getting them painted. She had a smile on her face through the whole thing.
I have a feeling there will be many pedicure trips in the future.

Picking out her color. So many choices!!

Look at the excitement on her face.

Relaxing while letting them dry.

Perfect toes!!

SAYING GOOD BYE TO 2011!!

2012-01-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

I really don't know how to sum up 2011. It was a very long year. I'm pretty glad that it is behind me. It had a lot of ups and downs, although, it did end very good. So saying it was all bad would not be a correct statement.
The main thing that brought it down was the furniture business. It was very unstable. Since the recession hit we knew it was going under. It was just very hard for Ricky to let it go. Although I hated it with a passion I too was a little sad. Not for long though. The hardest and scariest part of it was not knowing what was next in our life or what career path Ricky was going to take.
Little did we know that God had great plans for us! He has truly blessed us with the right path for our family. I couldn't be more thankful.
Ricky was hired on with a great company that has great potential. It could not have been a more perfect position for him. He basically gets to build his own business within a company. We're all happier because we see him so much more. He finally has a regular schedule. My prayer for 7 years has finally been answered!!!! Thank you Jesus!!!!!
As for me I found a path I'm really happy with. I sub at Hana's school. I am so much happier doing something productive during the day and getting out. It also helps that Hana gets extra days of school to prepare for Kindergarten in the fall.
Some things that happened in 2011 were:
Ricky turned 42, I turned 32, Ricky II turned 7 and Hana turned 4.
Ricky and I celebrated our 8 year anniversary.
Hana went to 4 year old Pre-K with Mrs Tripp and Warren.
Ricky started 1st grade with Ms Menges.
We were pretty healthy this year.
We are truly blessed in life. We're happy and healthy.
I am so excited to see what 2012 holds for my family. I just know it's going to be a good year.

CHRISTMAS 2011

2011-12-29T19:37:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 9:6
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Christmas is a very special day. It is the day our Savior is born. What better gift is there????

As always Christmas was wonderful. Well, I say that. The one thing missing this year was my parents. They decided to come after Christmas. Which to me was very sad. We didn't have our traditional Christmas eve dinner of fried catfish and potato salad. It's just not the same with out it.

We spent Christmas Eve at my sisters house with her extended family. It was a great time. What else could you ask for? We were surrounded by amazing people we love and lots of good food. Oh my gosh, there was so much food!!!!!

The kids had to wait till 12am to open presents. I think this was torture for them. Hana fell asleep. Of course, he did wake up for the opening.

Hana on our way to Teta's house.

Christian and Ricky

ChiChi and Hana.

Waiting patiently for 12am

Hana didn't make it till 12am.

Ricky was so excited to get this! It was the main and basically only thing (other then a book, the new Diary of a wimpy kid book). Santa can not take credit though. Not for this one. Ricky paid 1/2 for it. He was saving up for a laptop. He was given money, raised money and earned money towards a laptop. It was only fair that he paid for 1/2 of it as a life lesson.

When we got home the kids went right to bed. It was late so it was pretty easy. It's the only way Santa and his reindeer could come. Before we left for Aunt Vlady's they sprinkled reindeer food to guide them and Santa to our house. They left milk, cookies and candy canes out for Santa.

The kids were definitely on Santa's nice list. I had a talk with Santa last year to really tone it down this year. He did just a tad but he didn't really listen to me. Sigh.

Hana received a doll house, barbie, make up(which she loves and doesn't have to wear mine anymore), barbie book, squinkies, chatimal and the list goes on.

Ricky received the kindle fire, Diary of a wimpy kid book (which he read in 3 days), skateboard, smurfs movie, just dance 3 (which I LOVE), chatimal, sea life shark figurines, Phineas and Ferb boom box and more.

From the grandparents, teta and uncle Marco they got a trampoline. They love it!!!! I had an exciting mommy moment. Hana did a complete cartwheel on the trampoline. It was perfect!! She has been practicing. I am not sure if she could do it on the ground, but the trampoline definitely has given her the confidence and the extra push. It was such an exciting moment for me, I am sure for her too!!!

My favorite thing was, when I asked the kids what their favorite gift was, they said baby Jesus.
How amazing and special is that?!

VISIT FROM THE NORTH POLE

2011-12-29T18:51:00.000-08:00

This year we had a special visit from the North Pole. Santa sent one of his special elves to watch the kids behavior this year. The kids named him Ollie (short for Oliver). The kids were super excited.
They had fun waking up and looking for him in the morning. Since Ollie flew back to the N Pole every night to report the kids behavior to Santa his location changed daily.
I am not really sure Hana cared what Ollie said about her. He must have said nice things though. She made the nice list. With Ricky he knew Ollie was watching, but I didn't see a real difference in his behavior. It is like Ollie watches him the whole year.
Some things Ollie did:

He had a snowball fight with some of the animals.

Made a snow angel.

Rode away with Barbie.

Peed in the toilet and didn't flush!!

Drew faces on our family picture.

Went fishing.

Drew a heart for the kids

Had a sweet tooth. He ate my chocolate!!!

There are some nights that Ollie over slept or was just plain lazy. He forgot to fly to the N Pole. That Ollie. Hopefully next year he will be more on top of his elf duties.

PUTTING UP THE CHRISTMAS TREE!!

2011-12-22T19:55:00.000-08:00

One of the most exciting times of Christmas is putting up the tree. I really don't like our fake tree, so this year we have decided to get a real one. YAY!!! I was so excited. We went to a nursery to pick one out. It was a little frustrating because you had to realize that they were not going to be perfect. That is how they grow. Either way I think we picked out the best one out there!! We all love it. It's tall and full and goes to the bottom. It makes the house smell so good.
One of the major differences is that the branches are not as sturdy as fake trees. The ornaments really take a toll on it. I could already tell that it is getting a little droopy. I love it though.

Our beautiful tree.

Hana getting into the Christmas spirit while wearing a shirt that has "brother for sale" on it. Maybe she wants to sell him so she can buy me a Christmas gift. Wink Wink.

Hana decided she needed a break and the Santa's needed to refuel too.

Ricky still going strong.

I love these ornaments. They hold such a dear tradition to me. They are chocolate ornaments. I remember these being on our tree as a little girl. My sister and I would always sneak some. I have been pretty lucky to get these from the Czech Republic since little Ricky was small. We call it "kolekce". There are many different characters in the box.

we are extremely lucky to have lights on the tree. When Ricky packed the fake tree last year he packed the lights with it. We figured it would be easier if we I went and bought some. Well it turns out that the whole city of Houston had the same idea. I could not find white lights.Wal Mart was sold out. A nice lady gave me 2 boxes from her cart. On the way home I had to stop by Walgreens to pick up another box. It might of been ages since I bought lights, but I remember them being $1-$2 not $4-$5. Geezzz. If I knew that Ricky would have been in the attic searching for the lights we already had.

Every year the kids get to pick out an ornament to put on the Christmas tree. It symbolizes them and what they were into that year. Ricky again picked Phineas and Ferb.

Hana picked Bell. She's my favorite princess. Hers to I think, but only because she know's it's mine.

VISITING SANTA -- WHOO HOOO!!

2011-12-22T19:39:00.000-08:00

Beginning of December we visited Santa at the Willowbrook mall. The kids had their letters ready for the mail box and their wish list for Santa. You see it has to be written and said. The only problem is that my kids are asking for stuff that is not realistic. With Hana the stuff that is realistic, well changes all the time.

Ricky wants and Ipad. I do know if Santa delivers and Ipad he is not taking all the credit for it. "No siree, not this time Santa".

Hana wants a swimming pool and a real live mermaid. Well we have not started digging the whole so that is not going to happen. But i'll put it on my santa list too. Maybe if both of us want it bad enough one day Santa will deliver. I am pretty sure, I am on the nice list. Not sure about Hana thought. She might be on the ~~naughty~~ I mean nice list.

It was perfect there were no lines and they were able to chat with Santa for a minute.

Love, Love, Love that they are so excited to see him.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-18T17:26:00.000-08:00

For this Thanksgiving we decided to go to Corpus and visit my parents. The kids had a whole week off from school. It was a pretty relaxing Thanksgiving. We went to the beach a lot. The water was pretty chilly. Despite that there were still a handful of people swimming. Including lil Ricky. CRAZY!!

My parents made a turkey dinner which was pretty good. It was just the basics so no a ton of sides. Still way more than enough food. We were stuffed.

We also tried to take a family picture by the beach. That didn't really work out. We went in the morning so the sun was ALWAYS in our eyes. We also had to take the wind into consideration. Many things were against us. Sigh.........

Hana's School Picture

2011-12-17T13:36:00.000-08:00

Hana's 4 year old Fall school picture at Windwood.
I thought they turned out awesome.

Hana's Wisdom To Me

2011-12-15T18:24:00.000-08:00

I have not posted in a while. I really need to post and catch every one up on our Thanksgiving and what we have been up to.
I will save that for a later date though.

I just wanted to post something Hana said. This is something I don't want to forget.
I must say, it was not funny as it was happening.

Most people know Hana and I butt heads all the time. We just see things totally different. I think wearing a nice dress to her Christmas concert is the right decision vs her choice of outfit, jeans with a skirt and a non matching shirt. Daily we're on different pages. I'm so exhausted by night time that I think I literally check out around 7pm and anything goes.

This particular day she got in trouble in school and I was trying to explain something to her regarding the issue. She finally looks at me and says "mom you are arguing with a 4 year old."

I didn't know if I should pull my hair out or laugh.
Where does she get this stuff?!?!
She is pretty smart though. There is no arguing with a 4 year old. There is no winning with a 4 year old. It's a lost cause.

She definitely keeps me on my toes and makes me laugh.

HALLOWEEN!!!!!!!

2011-11-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

The kids LOVE Halloween. Lil Ricky has been counting down since Sept. It finally came - yay!!!
We have such amazing neighbors. The kids started their trick or treating with a great start. Michelle and Stephanie give the kids such great goody bags. Filled with lots and lots of treats. We can't thank them enough.
Hana had made up her mind that she did not want to trick or treat but give candy out instead. She dresses as Scooby from Scooby Doo. She also played her part really good. Getting on all fours and panting. That's Hana for you. She enjoyed giving out candy.
Ricky wanted to trick or treat. We walked the neighborhood for a little over an hour. Our neighborhood is very generous. We came back with a whole bag full. Now i'm not sure what we're going to do with it all!!
At the very end lil Ricky got really scared. On the porch was a rocking chair with a werewolf in it and the pot of candy by the chair. When Ricky got close, obviously the werewolf moved and scared him. He was so scared he dropped his entire bag of candy and ran out of his shoes (crocs) to come to me. He cried for a while. They came over and calmed him down. He was their biggest scare of the night!!!

Halloween is also a very special day because it's big Ricky's birthday. He turned a whopping 42 years old. I baked him an apple pie from scratch. Apple pie is his favorite. Yum. It was so good. I think I ate most of it. The kids sang him happy birthday in the morning, gave him cards they picked out and a hand stamped key chain. The Fri before I took Ricky to a ghost theater and a ghost hunt in Tomball. We didn't see a ghost but we did get a great history of Tomball and now know where some ghosts are lurking. Spooky!!

Other Fall/Halloween Festival pictures.

school parade.

FLAG FOOTBALL AND SOCCER COME TO AN END

2011-10-29T10:32:00.000-07:00

I feel like just yesterday was our 1st soccer and flag football game. I'm sad that the season is over.
Ricky loved flag football. The Colts were amazing. The group of kids were just awesome. The last game Ricky had a great catch and he was so close to scoring a touch down. I think he got pushed out of bounds about 2 inches away from the touch down line. Either way it was super exciting. The Colts had a great season. They only lost the 1st game!!

Ricky with the head coach, Jeramiah.

Ricky with all the coaches. They were awesome!!

The Colts!! Woo Hoo!!

Hana didn't have a great last soccer game. There was a bully on the opposite team that singled her out and was talking rude to her and when she was running he pushed her. That was it for her. She went out crying and never recovered. I am very disappointed that the coach on the other team didn't address. It was very disappointing. Other than that Hana had a good season. I don't really know if she enjoyed soccer because one time she'll say she loved it and another time she'll tell you she doesn't like it. I guess it all depends on her mood when you ask her. Hopefully she'll play in the spring.
The Cheetahs were an amazing team. They were undefeated!!!

Hana's soccer game!!

2011-10-16T10:26:00.001-07:00

Hana playing soccer.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sn4UU05Zl1E

She was so close!!! We did cheer as though she scored!! So exciting!!!!!

GIRLS TRIP - PORTLAND OREGON!!!

2011-10-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

My sister, Vlady had planned to travel the US west coast for 2 weeks!!! Wow!! Starting in Portland, Oregon and making her way down to San Francisco, Calofornia.
My cousin, Martina, from the Czech Republic (who know lives in London) was also flying in for the trip. In my my mind I thought about going, just for the Portland part of it. I would have loved to have done it all, but knew that wasn't a possibility. Portland was on my list of US cities I wanted to see. After much consideration and talking it over with Ricky, we decided I should go. It was a pretty hard decision because we just closed the furniture store and Ricky was in the middle of starting his new job.
I also knew if I didn't go I would regret it. I have not seen my cousin for 15 years!!! Not only that but I have a dear child hood friend, Aniko, who lives near there. I also have not seen her for 15 years.
Plus it would give me a little bit of time to get away and enjoy time with my sister. We haven't had a trip together, umm I don't think ever.
The trip was amazing. Portland was beautiful, friendly and very laid back. So much nature to see and be in awwww of. I think Vlady and I were excited about seeing hills and trees!! My cousin wasn't really sure what our excitement was about since she sees this kind of scenery all the time in Europe.
The first day was just Vlady and I. We spent it by going to Multnomah Waterfall. A beautiful waterfall! We also hiked the steep 2 miles up the mountain to see the waterfall from above. Breathtaking!!!
The second day when Martina got there we visited Ecola park. This is where a lot of the Twilight scenes were filmed. We might of actually stepped in the same places that Jacob and Edward did!!
The last night we met my friend Aniko and her boyfriend for dinner. It was so great and emotional seeing her after so long. Her family and mine were very close as we were growing up. Somehow we lost touch. Thanks to facebook we were able to reconnect.
On my last day (Sat - Tue) Vlady dropped me off at the airport as they continued their trip south. Sad I couldn't continue with them, but I was happy to get back home and see Ricky and my 2 beautiful kids.
I know this trip wouldn't be possible with out great friends to help out. Stacy and Charles for letting Hana and Ricky spend the night Friday since my flight was at 6am. Lorelei who had Hana all day Monday and Ricky after school and then again after school on Tuesday. Also letting Ricky be dropped of before school so big Ricky could get to work on time. Valerie for letting Hana be dropped of super early on Tuesday and taking her to school. I'm so blessed to have such amazing friends who are willing to help out.
Also I'm thankful that my amazing husband didn't say anything against me going. I know it wasn't the easiest thing to do or probably even the right timing, but no concerns were ever stressed.
Such an amazing trip!!!!

Seaside Oregon.

Dinner with Aniko and her boyfriend Cory.

Having a pint at the oldest brewery in Portland, Bridgeport. Portland is known for it's breweries.

Rose Garden. So pretty and smelled so good.

Japanese Garden.

Portland has a lot of food street carts. We found a Czech one. We were super excited!!! I had planned to eat breakfast, lunch and dinner there. But it didn't turn out that way. It was so good to have some authentic Czech food.

Dinner with Aniko.

Multnomah falls. So pretty!!I think this is one of the tallest falls in the US.

After the treacherous 2 mile uphill hike. The waterfall from the top.

Ecola state park.

Getting warm and having coffee and a pastry.

Gulash!! Yummy!!! Good but I have to say my dads is a little better. I did want to buy a ton of knedlik (dumplings) to take with me though.

Cheers!!

**Sorry the pictures are scattered. I pulled from 2 sources***

Eight Year Anniversary!!

2011-10-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

I was sitting in my car and it dawned on me that I never blogged about my 8 year anniversary. Oops!!!!
On September 6 Ricky and I celebrated our 8 year anniversary. I am truly blessed to have married my best friend and the love of my life.

Ricky,
You are an amazing father and husband. I love you more with each passing day. You are an amazing man. How did I get so lucky to have showed up on your doorstep 10 years ago. I guess God knew what he was doing. The kids and I appreciate everything that you do for our little family and how extremely hard you work. With you all my dreams have come true. I love you today and always.

SOCCER AND FLAG FOOTBALL!!

2011-09-17T15:58:00.000-07:00

This fall Hana decided she wanted to play soccer and Ricky football.
So exciting!!!! Their 1st games were today. Hana's team is the Cheetahs and Ricky is the assistant coach. The game was exciting. The Cheetahs won!!!!! They dominated it was great!!! Hana played well and said she really enjoyed it. Ricky is great at coaching and all the kids love him. They just have a blast out there. I can't wait till the next game. Unfortunately I had to leave early because lil Ricky's game was an hour later about 15 minutes away.
Ricky's team is the Colts. They have a great group. It's pretty confusing out there, but little Ricky is trying to learn and he says he loves it. That's all that matters.
On top of practices and games, my kids also have gymnastics and take won do!! We're pretty busy around here. I think we have one weeknight that is free and that's only because Hana's gymnastics is during the day. Wednesday evenings we have midweek. Whoa, I'm tired already, but I wouldn't change it. It's so much fun.

I know the red doesn't really do anything for the whole outfit. But I can find her in a field with out any issues - lol. I will be getting a different color for her next game.

Go Hana and Addi!!!!

Coach Ricky getting his players ready. He did a great job. They won 8-0!!!

A little practice before the game.

Hana supporting Ricky after her soccer game.

Hut. Hut.

Go Ricky go!!! He ran great. Just needed to go up the field and not sideline.

LABOR DAY!!

2011-09-06T19:18:00.000-07:00

This Labor day we decided to visit my mom. Dad is in Europe so mom is alone. This was a special trip because daddy decided to come with us. YAY!!!
All we did was spend time sleeping, eating, at the beach and more eating. It was a very relaxing trip.

They couldn't wait to splash around in this clear water.

Not going to catch too many waves in this clear and calm water.

Even Hana got in on the action this trip.

They LOVED being thrown.

Now that is some height!!!

She loves running and falling.

Hana helping the fisherman put his fresh caught bait into a bucket.

Pre-k 3 VS Pre-k 4

2011-08-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

They grow so fast. I know I always say this. My heart breaks every year because I don't want them to grow up. It's a day closer each day that they will be teenagers and I won't matter, or a day closer that they will be on their own. If they get to big how will I carry them or snuggle with them or comfort them with my hugs and kisses?

HANA'S 1ST DAY OF 4 YEAR OLD PRE-K!

2011-08-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

Hana could not wait to start school. She was so excited to go!! Thursday Aug 25, 2010 was the big day. She woke up geared to go. She picked out her 1st day of school dress, decided she wanted braided pig tails (if anyone knows me than you know that I don't know how to do hair), of course, she was eager to wear her twinkle toes. I had promised her she would get them this year.
She was all ready to go and excited. We met her teachers that previous Tuesday. Miss Tripp and Miss Warren. We heard amazing things about them. I just know Hana and the teachers are going to get along wonderfully and it's going to be an amazing year.
After putting her folder, lunch box and back pack in the designated place, Hana sat down and played with some play-doh. Of course, I tried to do my best to get good pictures, but she wasn't really cooperating.
This is a bitter-sweet day. It's the last day of her 1st day or Pre-k. We've been going to Windwood since Ricky was 2, so 5 years. It's going to be super sad parting ways, but we always have mid-week.
Wow! Did I really just write that? It's her last year of Pre-k? Can someone please tell me how I can stop time?
This year isn't going to be the same for me because Hana's bff, Addison and Addison's mom Leah are opposite days. We had an after school ritual for a couple years, which no longer exists. I'm sure i'll survive somehow.

Hana weighs 36 pounds at the beginning of pre-k.

Daddy with his cutie pie.

Hana excited for her 1st day of school.

On the car ride to school. Even though she was super excited she was sad her BFF is not in the same class.

Cooperation was not in her vocabulary.

KINDER VS 1ST

2011-08-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

RICKY'S 1ST DAY OF 1ST GRADE!

2011-08-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

I officially have a 1st grader now!! Where has the time gone? I'm not ready for him to grow up and be in 1st grade. Well, since I really have no choice. Today I sent him off to his 1st day of 1st grade.
For breakfast he wanted an egg taco with bacon on the side. Daddy made sure to fulfill that order. Ricky inhaled it. I did pour the apple juice. That does count for something right?
He got dressed, brushed his teeth and daddy fixed his hair.We were ready to tackle this big day.
We walked him to his classroom.. I made sure he knew his car number. He was like a pro knowing what to do. My problem is, I still want to baby him and do things for him and lead him to where he needs to be. They just don't do that in school. They make him do everything and teach him to be a "big boy". I worry, but I know he'll do just fine. I can't wait to pick him up from school and hear about his day. I know Hana misses him a lot.
He's going to have an amazing 1st grade year!!!

Ricky weighs 54 pounds and is 4'8" tall at the beginning of 1st grade.

Mrs. Menges, Ricky and Hana on the 1st day.

When did he grow up?!

Hana is going to miss her brother =(

TEAR DUCT SURGERY

2011-08-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

On August 15, 2011 Hana had tear duct surgery. Her right eye has a narrow or unopened tear duct. Since there are a few seasons her eye drains really bad and some times when she wakes up she can't open her eye due to all the dried up mucus, we thought it would be in her favor to go through with it.
Dr. Miller said that she only has an 80% chance of it being successful. This being that she's a little older. Usually it's about 90%.
We had to be downtown at 7 a.m. We planned to wake up at 5:30. That was a bit of a challenge for me since I haven't seen 5:30a.m. since Hana was still feeding in the middle of the night.
We got there early. Since lil Ricky was with us, we weren't all allowed to go in the back. I was the one who went to the back with her. Helped her get in her hospital gown, she decorated her mask for anesthesia.There were times where she was a little scared, but mostly we had fun back there just goofing around.
I know they were going to give her a relaxer before they wheeled her to the back. I was already prepared for it not to work. Even though I heard the Dr. tell another mother that it works for 95% of the patients. Well wouldn't you know. I was the 5% it didn't work for. Hana NEVER relaxed. Wheeling her back made it very hard. I couldn't go with her. She was scared and crying. I too was scared because this is surgery. Anything could go wrong.
The surgery was pretty quick. About 30 minutes. The hardest part was coming out of anesthesia. Daddy went back first, but she was scared and kept crying for "mommy". Which surprises me because she's a daddy's girl. It was hard calming her down. She was crying to the extent of hyperventilating. remembered what always worked on her when she was a baby. Singing "my little sunshine" now when I sing it sounds like your stepping on a squeaky toy, so I wasn't real comfortable with an audience. It worked!! I was so amazed that it still worked. I sat there with her singing for a while, till she was ok to get dressed.
The doctors/nurses told me she would sleep for the rest of the day. They don't know Hana like I do. She did NOT sleep at all. Well other than the car ride home.
I'm extremely thankful that God watched over her and the surgeons and the surgery went as planned.

Car ride to the medical center.

Pretending to be a sleep.

Goofing around.

SUMMER FUN - VACATION

2011-08-10T07:37:00.000-07:00

The kids and I decided to visit my parents and take a little vacation. Unfortunately daddy had to stay home and work =(.
We did miss daddy a lot but we had a great time. Finally!!!! the beach was beautiful. In the past 2 years it has been so hard for me to time it right. The waves were very minimal, the beach was clear and an emerald green and there was no seaweed. It was perfect!!!
We saw fish swim all around us. A few even nibbled on us. When one nibbled on Ricky he lost his mind. I thought was extremely ironic since every time we were out there swinging in the waves, Ricky would start talking about Great Whites and sharks in general. Really?! I know they are all around us, but I don't need to be reminded. So the whole time i'm on high alert and skimming the surface for fins. Also, I make sure we always stay near people. I noticed on shark bite documentaries it's usually the people that are by themselves that get bit. Not happening here, we were always near people =).
Most of our days consisted of being at the beach from 11 - 1:30 going home to eat and coming back in the evening. The last day I didn't want to leave, it was still so pretty. We spent about 3.5 hours on the beach till we called it quits. Since I ran out of sunscreen for myself I got a little burned.
We stayed a whole week. Even though it was so hard leaving, we were ready to see daddy.

Gorgeous!!

Ricky is wearing goggles so the salt water doesn't sting his eyes. Only wore them for 1 day since the waves weren't really there.

Love this pic. Look how clear the water is!

Enjoying a popsicle on the hot day.

Hana and I working on our tan.

HAPPY 7TH BIRTHDAY RICKY!!!

2011-08-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago on July 25 at 5:09pm I held a beautiful little 7.4lb 19" long boy. I never thought I could love something so little and so new so much. My life has never been the same since that day. I wake up every morning blessed to have such an amazing little boy in my life.
We had his birthday party at a friends neighborhood pool. It was perfect. It was like a private party since we were the only ones there. Everyone had so much fun and Ricky was surrounded by so many friends. On Ricky's 7th birthday he weighs 52lbs and is 49 1/4" tall.

Ricky and Logan

Birthday Cake - So yummy. We did have a Phineas and Ferb theme going on with the plates =)

Ricky,
Happy Birthday, little buddy. You are such an amazing blessing to me and daddy. We love you more than words could ever express. You are an amazing little boy. We are very proud of all your accomplishments and talents. We love how sweet you are. You have such a big heart. You make sure everyone is included and yes that means even your little sister. I love seeing you wanting to learn and try new things each day. You are an amazing little guy and I just know will be an amazing man. For my sake let's not hurry with the man part because I want to keep you as my little boy forever.
I love you to the moon and back times infinity <3 <3 <3
Mommy

MOODY GARDENS

2011-07-20T20:13:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Dad for winning tickets to Moody Gardens. Whoo Hoo!!
We decided to go on a weekday so the park would not be over crowded. We had a blast. We visited the rain forest. Which I must say was one of my favorites. There were animals just roaming free, including 3 monkeys! There was even a sloth in the tree. It was a neat experience.
I think Lil Ricky's favorite was the aquarium. He loves fish and is into sharks right now. I predict he will grow up to do something involving marine life. We saw many different species of fish. Yes, even Nemo, Dory and Bubbles. We even saw Jack, big Ricky's favorite.
I think the best way to see marine life is to go snorkeling in the Caribbean, but this is as close as we're going to get.
We went on a cruise on the Colonel. That was okay. I think once was definitely enough on the Colonel.
One of my other favorite things was the 4D Dora movie. It was just neat having the 3D effect combined with all the 4D effect. The blowing of the wind, bubbles coming at you and getting sprayed by water.
We also saw a 3D movie about ocean life. It was okay. Very discovery channel like.
I think every one really enjoyed Palm Beach. It's a small water park. This year they added a lazy river which was great. The kids played in the wave pool. I finally convinced Ricky to go down a slide with me. After much negotiating he finally over came his fear and went down the tube slide. He loved it!! That's what he did for the rest of the time there. We over came such a huge hurdle with that one slide. He wouldn't even do the YMCA slides, but now he just wants to go swimming at the YMCA so he can ride the slides. I've created a monster. Let's just hope when we go to Schlitterbahn he's still excited about all these slides.
On a side note, I am very proud of Ricky. To do the slides at the Y you have to pass a swim test. You have to swim the whole length of the pool. It's pretty long! Well i think so, especially for a 6 year old. I think I was more nervous for him than he was. Guess what?! He passed it pretty easily. So proud of him for having the courage to just go for it. I can't believe he can swim so good. He's had 1 swimming lesson when he was young. I get teased about going to the pool all the time in the summer, but at least I know my kids will be great swimmers. Hana for her age is an amazing swimmer. I think we're doing swim team next year. They love swimming so this will be perfect for them.

Hana trying to catch the butterflies.

These bats are freaky!!

There were 3 monkies roaming free.

Ricky's favorite tree - the chocolate tree!

WE NOW HAVE A YELLOW BELT

2011-07-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

Watch out we have a yellow belt in the house. Yes, Ricky II is now officially a yellow belt in take won do. So proud of my little guy. He truly enjoys take won do. I love how it is helping his confidence level.

NORTH PADRE ISLAND

2011-07-06T15:07:00.000-07:00

I took the kids to visit my parents on N Padre Island. It's a chance for them to see their grandparents and get some beach time. We left Houston on Monday and didn't get back till Sat afternoon.
The kids had a great time. Most of our time was spent at the beach. I'm thinking that's all we did, except putt putt one time.
I didn't know this, but there was a tropical storm brewing south of the island. This caused a pretty strop rip current, unusually high waves and high tide all the time. It was perfect for boogie boarding though. Ricky loves to boogie board, but it's always hard catching that right wave. Not this time though. He had 1 really good day of big and powerful waves. Now that I think about it, it's kind of scary. The currents are really powerful. The worst was when a wave would retreat back to the ocean. You had to dig your fee in and hold on. I have a huge fear of being pulled away from shore. It didn't look like anyone else around me was panicking but I was. Not only did I have to dig my heels into the sand, but I had to hold on to Ricky. One time I didn't have a hold of him but thankfully I did of the boogie board. He's just drifting out there only life support was the boogie board string. We had a lot of faith in it that day. Needless to say. I'm sure if we did get swept away it wouldn't be far and it didn't last long.
After battling the waves for about 2 hours and finding the perfect ones to take Ricky to shore, we finally discovered that because the depth was so unpredictable all over the shore had the best waves. Ricky caught his best waves near the shore. I rode a few and it's definitely a thrill.
What I don't understand with Ricky is that he'll go into the unforgiving and unpredictable beach with sharks, jelly fish and who knows what else. Boogie board all day but refuses to go on rides at water parks. The beach is so much more dangerous. Grrrrrrrrrr frustrating.
Hana had fun playing in the sand and jumping the waves. Babi held on to her the whole time.
We'll make one more trip back this summer. For Ricky's sake I hope he has good waves for boogie boarding, but for my sake I hope there are no waves.

Kids having a blast with Babi

Hana flying away with the retreating wave

The kids found some hermit crabs.

2011-07-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

Stone Bridge Church was presenting Destiny Sports Camp. They offered a lot of sport choices. You could do a morning or afternoon session or both. Ricky picked both. Morning football and afternoon baseball.
I was really surprised he wanted to do a sports camp. He liked football more. I was a little worried about baseball because it was in the afternoon and it was hot!! He survived though. It was suppose to be a 3 day event, but on the last day it rained so camp was canceled. We were so disappointed.
They ended the program with a ceremony and every participant received a towel.
Stone Bridge Church offers many camps. We will definitely be back next year.
Oh I forgot to mention the best part. The Destiny Sports Camp was FREE!!

Ricky and Noah both attended camp. This was awesome because Ricky had a friend and I had got to car pool.

HANA'S NEW TEETH

2011-07-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

In June Hana had her first Dentist appointment. She did great on x-rays. Unfortunately she wasn't that great on the cleaning part. Her x-ray results weren't very good and showed 2 cavities. I wasn't to surprised because she's a sweet addict.
Needless to say we had to go back. She was scheduled to get 2 shots. OUCH!! They had this all planned out and she was going to get a sleeping agent. We got there early, they took her in the back and gave her some sleeping medicine. Now all we had to do is wait an hour. Well an hour passed and Hana was still not showing signs of sleepiness. This wasn't going to be good. Unfortunately they don't allow you back there for procedures. They say the kids do better if they don't see the parent. I'm sure I did better not seeing her get the procedure done also. She wasn't in there long and from what I understood didn't really cooperate. I hate the fact that her head had to be restrained in order for them to do the work. I of course didn't know this. I only heard Hana telling little Ricky. She did reassure Ricky that it didn't hurt much. Just a little bit. Thank goodness!!
The procedure wasn't long, but when they handed her to me she was crying so hard she was hyperventilating. My poor little girl. They told me that she will probably sleep the rest of the day and no running around. She fell asleep on the car ride home. Every minute or so you heard her wimper from all the crying. So sad! I guess that is all she needed because there was no resting after that. Only my child would not have any reaction to a sleeping agent. We ended up going to chuckee cheese and Taco Cabana.
She is very proud of her silver caps and shows everybody.
She was talking to me and says:
"Look mommy, I have gray teeth"
"No, sweetie, they're silver"
"WOW (in her whispered surprised voice) they are going to look so pretty with all my dresses"

I just love her take on life.

There are 2. Each is on the bottom. One on each side.

HANA'S 4 YEAR WELL VISIT

2011-07-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

The 4 year well visit is the visit that every parent dreads. They get 4 shots!! Horrible!!! I had planned on only having Ricky take her, but it was a new doctor and I wanted to meet her.
I felt awful because she was so happy and cooperated for everything. When it was time to hold her legs down she was giggling and thinking she was going to get tickled. My heart just dropped. I couldn't watch. She was great though. She cried, but not for very long. We made it up to her and took her to Target to pick out any toy she wanted (within reason that is).
Hana weighs 36 lbs which is 51%; height 39.8 in which is 38%; her body mass index is 16.1 which is 72%.

Kids with Babi after Hana's Dr appointment.

Hana and her ballerina mouse that she picked out.

Hana showing her boo boo's =(

10th Tooth!!!

2011-07-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

Wow! Ricky's teeth are falling out fast. I'm only assuming this is normal. Since i'm so behind on my blogging I don't have the exact date, but do know it was a couple of days after his 9th tooth.
OMG! I'm horrible I don't even remember where he lost it. To top that off the tooth fairy forgot to come that night. He was so disappointed but understood that even the tooth fairy gets vacation.
The tooth fairy made it up to him and left him an extra dollar. A grand total of $4. Whoop Whoop.

It's the bottom left if you're looking at it.

ANOTHER TOOTH FELL OUT!!

2011-06-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

On May 26th we decided to go to dinner at Willies Ice House. While Ricky was eating and playing in the sandbox he lost a tooth!! It is the bottom one. I believe this was his 9th one!! The novelty kind of wore of. We were excited for a minute and than everything went back to normal. I mean it is his 9th one =).
Ricky was super excited because the tooth fairy would be visiting him that night. She usually leaves $3. It's $3 closer to his goal of buying a laptop.

Ricky's Last Day Of School

2011-06-06T08:27:00.000-07:00

Ricky had an awesome Kindergarten year. We were pretty worried of going from private to public. We also knew that if we had any issues with public we would put him back in private.
I have to say we were pleasantly surprised. Mrs. Narum was a great teacher. The whole Kinder staff seemed to be great and loved Ricky. Ricky excelled academically and socially. He received all "E's" on his report card for Kinder with the exception of on "s". The "s" was for class participation. He only received it because being shy he didn't raise his hand much. Which on this issue I have my own opinions.
Since Ricky was one of the strongest in class he was able to boost his confidence and help others.
On his Diagnostic Reading Inventory Results Ricky's scores were: Developed on the EOY screening 8/8; Listening Comprehnsion 6/6; EOY Reading Level J (I think Kinders are required to end at a "D" level).

This year he also finished his 1st real chapter book. The Diary of a Wimpy kid. He's reading another right now.

He only missed 1 day this entire year. It was the last semester. I'm not even sure he was really sick like he claimed. He acted fine all day and we even went out for ice cream. He was tardy 1 time the entire year. This was my fault because he was getting over being sick so I let him sleep in.

Socially he did great. As any mother you worry that your child will have no one to play with. I did especially in his case because I see him as shy. I discovered he's not so shy. He made so many friends in his class. He even had a girlfriend (which I have my opinions on, he's too young). He got a marriage proposals from this other girl. He had a girl break up with him because another girl liked him. So I must say he was popular with the girls. He also had so many guy friends. I know they played "monster" a lot at recess.

On the last day of school Mrs. Narum gave out certificates to students ( I guess students voted on what award each student gets) Ricky received Best Student. He never pulled a ticket this whole year (if your not behaving or do as your told you pull a red ticket). Ricky says he almost had to one time for not paying attention but cried so hard he got out of it. Even he knows the power of crying - hehehehehe.

Ricky with his "best student" certificate.

Last day of school.

1st day of Kinder. Wow look how young he looks. He's turning into such a handsome boy.

I have a 1st grader now!! We'll see what Kohrville has in store for us this coming year. I hope it's as good as Kinder. So proud of my little guy!!!!!

I would love to put him back at Windwood for 1st grade because his transition teacher, Mrs.Hogan is teaching 1st. I credit her for teaching Ricky a lot and pushing him. That is my only gripe about his class. I feel he was never pushed.
I don't know what the academic difference is from a private to public school. I'm sure they have to be on about the same curriculum level by state. I just know that the transition class was pretty hard and Mrs. Hogan expected a lot from the 8 boys she had.
I'd love to see the 1st grad curriculum agenda for both private and public.
In the end it also boils down to parent involvement. Your child is as good as you expect from them and as a parent it's your duty to work with them and push them above their level.

Last Day Of School For Hana

2011-06-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Hana's last day of 3 year old pre-k was on May 26, 2011. We had to say goodbye to Mrs Petttite and Mrs. Villigrand. She had some awesome teachers. They were also able to put up with Hana's mood swings. She only received 1 oh no note. She has learned so much. It seems like she went in as a little baby and came out as a girl.

It was also sad because it was the last year with her best friend, Addison. Next year Addi will be going 3 days while Hana still 2.

I can't believe next year will be her last year of pre-k till she goes to Kindergarten. Oh my goodness, why is she growing so fast?!

Hana's last day of school.

Hana's 1st day of school.

Quote Of The Day!!

2011-05-31T12:13:00.000-07:00

As Hana and I were walking up to Ricky's awards ceremony at school, Hana says:

"boogers are snacks"

Yuck, yuck, yuck!!!!
Where does she get this?!

The Best Article Ever!

2011-05-21T15:52:00.000-07:00

I have for years tried to explain to non stay at home moms (SAHM) or men that staying at home is one of the hardest things ever!! I could never really explain it the right way or using the right words. I found this article, which was posted on face book.
It is perfect!!!!! I though I would share.

By Heather Rigby:

My husband always asks how my day went. And he really wants to know. He’s nice like that. As we slowly push the girls around in the stroller, he shares what went right during his day at the office, and I share funny things the kids said. On bad days we vent stresses and offer support and advice.
But lately I can’t help wondering if when I mention that my day was sort of stressful, he mentally thinks, “Yeah, my days are like that too.” Because I really don’t think that our days have the same sort of stresses.
When you decide to become a stay-at-home parent, you enter into a different realm — one ruled by illogical two-year-old dictators, school schedules, and choosing the correct color yogurt. As much as I can explain this to my husband, I don’t know that I’m getting through. Now I’ve done the next best thing: creating a list of questions that will help him and other office-bound parents gauge how (cough, cough) similar their days are to ours.

When you walked into work this morning and pleasantly greeted your co-worker Jim, was his first reaction to scream “NO! WANT JASON!" followed by an office supply being thrown at you?
Has a colleague ever climbed up on your lap while you were using your computer and slammed the keyboard with both fists until the up arrow no longer worked?
Do you have to lock yourself in the supply closet or bathroom on a regular basis in order to make phone calls?
Did you finish a complete thought at any time during the day?
When you went out to lunch with your fellow workers, did you have to pack a diaper/juice/extra outfit for them? Did you have to wipe their faces? Smile an apology and leave an extra tip for the waiter on their behalf?
When a co-worker needed you for something, did she sit at her desk with her head tilted back toward the ceiling and repeatedly scream “SEAN! SEEEEANNNN! SEAAAAAAN!” until you came to find him?
When you needed a specific colleague, did you search all over for him, only to finally find him giggling in the cabinet under the sink? Did you also find six pairs of your church shoes under there with him?
Have you had to come to an associate’s aid because she fell off her desk after trying to climb on top of it using a rolling chair?
When you reached for the report a co-worker was handing you, did he snatch them away at the last second and scream “MINE!” while shoving you backwards?
Does your colleague lift up her shirt and pick things out of her belly button every time she comes over to ask a question?
While you are using the restroom, do various co-workers come in the stall and ask you to settle a disagreement or open a packet of fruit snacks?
During a board meeting when everyone is present, do you notice a smell and then have to check all your colleagues’ pants to locate it? In fact, at ANY point in your day do you have to deal with another person's feces?

If the answer to most of these questions is no, it’s a safe bet to assume you’re in an office. That said, if your answer to most of these questions is yes, and you know you’re in an office, it’s safe to assume you might need a new job.

Lemonade Stand

2011-05-19T10:07:00.000-07:00

Ricky has been wanting to do a lemonade stand for quite some time now. This past Sat we decided it was the day. Well, actually little Ricky decided it was the day. We went to walmart bought some lemonade, water, ice and poster board. We had cups and pitchers at home.
The location was going to be in front of Shallow Pockets Furniture. There has to be way more traffic there than in front of our house!!
Ricky was great at selling the lemonade. He asked everyone that walked buy if they would like to buy a cup of lemonade.
In four hours Ricky profited $15. For a 6 year old this is great. He can't wait to have his next lemonade stand.

Garden

2011-05-19T09:47:00.000-07:00

The garden is showing promise. We were a little worried, but there are a few plants that are showing fruit. Hopefully soon the others will follow. We have a few squash, zucchini, bell pepper, cucumbers and 1 of the tomato plants is showing some tomatoes.
The basil has taken off like a champ.

Gymnastics

2011-05-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to say that Hana is loving gymnastics. I am so glad that I moved her to the "Y" for gymnastics. Leeann the instructor is amazing with her. The skills are at the same level as other more expensive gyms, but she just doesn't get all that pressure here to move up.
Hana had her first gymnastics show yesterday. I was a little worried, because when it comes to performing in front of others she clams up. Well wouldn't you know when she realized she was going to be watched she wanted to back out and started crying. Leeann knew just what to do to get Hana to participate.
I am so proud of her. She's doing so great and excelling. What she loves the most and her strongest area is rings. Her teacher says that Hana has the best basket on the rings (my little mommy bragging moment).

I was going to take the summer of, but because she loves it so much, we'll probably enroll for summer session.

(I was having camera issues, so sorry for the poor quality)

Money

2011-05-19T09:35:00.000-07:00

Little Ricky is so funny and this is one thing that made me laugh last night. His school is having a book fair this week and today is his class turn to go and purchase. We were looking through the book list and they are also offering a special "buy one get one free". I decided to give him $10 towards the books he wants and he has to spend his own money for anything over.
We calculated it and he would need $15.13 for the books he chose, including the book he picked out for Hana (such a sweet boy).
We were getting the money together so he's ready tomorrow. Ricky hands me a $1 and $5. He goes "1 and 5 that makes 15 right" ahahahahahahaha I wish!!!

While i'm on funny things the kids did, Hana, also made me laugh a lot on Mon. She's such a hoot. We spent Mon together doing some errands and than the library. She LOVES going to the library. This mama loves it too because it's free and I don't have book sitting around that she won't touch in a couple of days.

On our errand at Costco she's sitting in the cart and goes "mommy did you hear that" I said no, she again goes "mommy did you hear that?" I said no, she goes "I farted.
She is so not girly!!

As we were walking up to the library she was carrying her library bag with books we were returning. She goes "can you give me my list so I know what books to check out" She had a little spiral she wrote down what books to get! The page she was looking at had her name and phone number on it. But to her it was book titles and she made sure to look at it, say what she's getting and than tell me that she got everything on her list.

I love the mind of a child. It's so innocent and genuine. I treasure these little innocent and funny conversations with them.

FIRST CRUSHED HEART

2011-05-09T20:17:00.000-07:00

Okay so it finally happened. Ricky had his little heart crushed by a girl. First I have to say he's only 6!!! This is way to young and I really don't think he knows what he's talking about.
His little girlfriend, Bella ( I didn't even know they were an item) broke up with him today.
I pick him up from school and he says "mom, Bella broke up with me today and I was sad". I asked him why? He says because Kenna likes him. I than ask if him and Kenna are boyfriend and girlfriend now. He says "no, because she's not right for him" ( I laughed at this point. I know it's bad but i'm so impressed that he said those words and they were so funny coming from a 6 year old).
The topper was that Bella had 2 boyfriends. Yup in kinder. My son and a classmate. It's probably good that he's single now - ahahahahahaha.

On the same note, when Dad came home and both Ricky's were watering the garden lil Ricky says "Dad, I didn't want to have to bring this up, but Bella broke up with me today."

How funny is he?

We had our first heart crushed. I'm so sad that it happened at such a young age. I'm sure it compares to nothing that is to come. I dread the day when he really feels the pain of a crushed heart.

My little boy is so innocent and trusting that a little girl at school told him that Willow Smith had to change her name to Kenna so she wouldn't be hounded by paparazzi. The little girl is Kenna in his class and she's Willow. Little Ricky believes her!!!! One person told him that they have Justin Biebers phone number and he believes.

To my sweet little boy. Remember that I love you to the moon and back plus infinity.

UPDATE: Yesterday (5/18/11) when I picked Ricky up from school he said that this one particular girl said she loves him now and they are back together.

Here is the note she gave him:

Well, my motherly advice was to tell him to break up with her because he's much to young to have a girlfriend!!

MOMMY AND ME SESSION

2011-05-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

Tracy Robinson Photography was running a "mommy and me" special I just couldn't turn down. It was a Minny session in Old Town Spring. I'm so happy I did it. I have these beautiful pictures of me and my babies that I will cherish forever.
I want to make a note that it might look like I have a wrinkle on my eye, but I don't!! It's a scar!!!!
Here are a few of my favorites!!

MOTHERS DAY 2011

2011-05-09T19:42:00.000-07:00

I woke up with my favorite breakfast being served to me in bed ( I did have to wash the dishes after, so i'm not sure if I should brag on the french toast). French toast with fresh strawberries. Yum!! Also the kids gave me a card and roses and Ricky gave me a nice card with chocolates. So sweet.
After church we went to my sisters, Vlady's house to spend the day.
I'm so lucky to have 2 amazing, smart and beautiful children to call me "mom".
I also don't take this special day for granted because I know that i'm truly bless to be a mom.

The kids also made special treats for me at school.
Hana made me a mosaic candle holder and Ricky a poem with his handprint. They also both gave me "about mom" questionnaire. I love getting these. They are hilarious.

Ricky's All About Me (his answers in red)
My mom's name is Nalola she is 32 years old she has short hair and hazal eyes. Her favorite food is soshe. But she doesn't like un healthy food. When my mom wants to have fun, she wants to go on vacation. My mom helps our family by helping our ant. If my mom could have one wish come true, she would wish for a baby. My mom looks pretty when she brads her hair. I love my mom most because she loves me.

Hana's All About Me (answers are in red)
This is my mother
My mother's name is Nikola
My mother's favorite food is rice
my mother likes to watch tv, play with me and dance.
I like to help my mother wash dishes
After I go to bed, my mother works
I love my mother because I always see her.

HANA'S 4 YEAR PRE-K PICTURES

2011-05-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

Hana and her award winning smile (just like her daddy). I just love these pictures of Hana. I think the school did a great job in making her smile. Oh and they also brushed her hair. Look how pretty!!
Hana did pick out her own outfit and she also picked out her own hair accessory.
I can't believe next year will be her last year in pre-k. That will be such a bittersweet moment for me. Sweet because I don't have to write anymore checks and bitter because my little girl is growing up.
You never realize how time flies till you have children. All you want to do is freeze time when you do.

ORANGE BELT

2011-05-09T19:30:00.000-07:00

Little Ricky is moving up in the Take Won Do world. He has earned his orange belt!!
Yay!! He's doing so good in Take Won Do. I love seeing him be so excited something. The instructor makes it so much fun for the kids.

EASTER 2011

2011-05-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

We're so lucky that God gave his one and only son for our sins to be forgiven. I can't even bare to imagine what he went through. I know I would never be able to give up one of my children . It really doesn't matter what the reason. Not only to give him up, but watch him go through all the pain. WOW! How unselfish is that.
Me on the other hand. I'm pretty selfish when it comes to my children.
I know I feel much better and at peace each day knowing my sins are forgiven and that I will have eternity with the people I love in God's kingdom.

We had a great Easter. We spent the day in Bastrop with Ricky's sister Lynn and Gary. The kids love seeing them and get super excited. They are also thrilled to see all their cousins. Easter morning we attended church. Then we were all excited to head to lake Bastrop. It was perfect. I have never seen so much food and people in one place. The only set back was the hurricane force wind. Both the kids lost their entire plate of food to the wind. Have no fear though, there was plenty of food. No one went hungry.

The kids spent the day swimming and playing.

It was such an amazing day. We're so blessed to have such wonderful people in our lives.

HE HAS RISEN!

JUST BECAUSE

2011-04-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

I had a few pictures I wasn't sure what to do with and they were to random to do a specific blog about. So here they are:

Ricky reading to Hana. A library book she checked out.

Our guest 1 Sat morning. Pancakes and bacon was served. I think the frog left happy.

Hana being Hana

AN AMAZING LITTLE BOY

2011-04-11T16:44:00.000-07:00

Lil Ricky is such an amazing little boy. He is amazing in every way. He's super sweet and caring and very smart. He brought home another report card with all E's. He also got the Principal's award (highest citizenship award), A honor roll and math award.
I was truly blessed with an amazing little boy. I'm such a proud mom.
I love you little buddy, you make us proud every day.

Ricky right before his awards ceremony.

After he received his awards. Whoop Whoop!!

Hana after the awards ceremony. She's so proud of her big brother.

TO A GREAT WEEKEND

2011-04-10T21:38:00.000-07:00

We had a perfect weekend. It was extra specially because big Ricky had Sat and Sun off. This is rare, so we're so excited when he's home for both days. On Sat we went to Kings Orchard and picked lots and lots of strawberries. So much that I had to make a strawberry pie. Definitely no complaints. It was so good. I think we ate the whole thing in 1 night. Well big Ricky and I ate the whole thing, except for the 2 pieces the kids got. We tried so hard to save them some. Just couldn't. I'll make them a strawberry parfait tomorrow when Ricky gets home from school. The rest of the day was spent at home just relaxing.
Sunday was our big day, the one lil Ricky has been waiting for. We went to The Houston's Children's Festival. It's the largest children's festival in the United States. It's put on for a very good cause, The Child Advocate.
Lil Ricky wanted to go because one of the stars from his favorite Disney TV Show, Shake It Up was going to be there.Roshon Fegan. It's also the #1 rated tv show on Disney right now . If you know Ricky he loves singing and dancing so he was super excited. We made sure to get to the stage early so we could get a good spot .We did, Ricky was right by the stage. It was so exciting when he came out and how close Ricky was to him. He could of literally touch his shoe if he wanted. Roshon played interacted very well with the crowd. Touched many lil girls hand. It was so funny watching all these girls scream. My poor son was caught right in front.I thought he was going to get trampled by all these screaming girls. But he made it unharmed. Whew! After the performance we stood in a crazy long line to get his autograph and picture. During this time daddy took Hana to get her face painted.
We also caught a circus act. Very entertaining. I just think it's crazy how families decide that they want to travel and be in the circus. Non-the less the performance was great. It's crazy what these people can do.
The rest of the time we walked the booths and played games or received free stuff and/or brochures.
When we got home, we grilled burgers and enjoyed a nice dinner outside. It was a perfect weekend. I wish all weekends were like this

Ricky volunteering for a circus act.

Picking strawberries.

Hmmmm let's see how this strawberry tastes.

Toss the stem

Yummy! That was delicious. I'll have another please. I'll leave the picking to daddy and Ricky.

By the stage waiting for Roshon.

So excited to be getting his autograph.

OUR GARDEN

2011-04-10T21:16:00.000-07:00

We have decided that we should plant a garden. Vegetables are so expensive right now, so why not? Also the vegetables won't be doused with chemicals, so it will be healthier and safer for the kids. Ricky wanted to do it right. It involved a lot of lumber, soil and time. I think I was just good at keeping him company.
Impressively it didn't take him very long to build it. It looks great!! Every angle is cut perfect.
We planted tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplant, zucchini and peppers.
I can't wait to eat some fresh vegetables from our garden.

Hana's 4 Year Birthday Party.

2011-03-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

My little monkey.

Addi and Hana. Besties.

Go Cade!!

So sweet =)

Looks like he played hard.

On March 27th we had Hana's 4 year birthday party. I decided to do Jerry Matheson Park. It's one of my favorite parks. It's big and made of wood. Very unique to the other parks. It was perfect. Her friends and family showed up to celebrate with her. She picked a Hello Kitty theme. The weather was gorgeous. No complaints.
I am extremely sad that she's four and growing up. I would love to keep her at a toddler stage forever, but I know she has to grow up and become a beautiful, strong, independent woman. I really don't care how old she gets or how independent, she'll always be my little girl.

RICKY EARNS HIS WHITE BELT

2011-03-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

Ricky has been doing Takewondo for about a month now. The place he attends makes you earn all your belts, this includes your white belt. This past Fri Ricky had his white belt test. He was so excited to pass and receive his white belt. Part of the test was breaking a board. Ricky was a little hesitant in this part, but in the end he broke the board. Congratulations to my little fighter. I LOVE YOU! We are so proud of you.

Ricky with Master Hahn. He's such a great coach.

So proud of his broken board.

I Just Threw Her

2011-03-29T20:31:00.000-07:00

Little Ricky said something that truly made me laugh today. I probably shouldn't of laughed, but I couldn't help it.
Him and Hana were fighting, of course I caught the end of it. I only saw him do something wrong. So he got the punishment. I told him he's not allowed to hit or push. He says " I didn't hit or push her, I didn't, I just threw her." (Nothing more than brothers and sisters would do when they fight. No one got hurt). I try what I can not to laugh. This is serious stuff. Than 2 seconds later he proceeds to tell me that in 2 days he's moving out. Ya, I couldn't hold it in anymore. Where does he get this stuff. He's so funny.
To give you a little update about 30 minutes later he comes to me and tells me he decided not to move out.
I am so glad he has decided to still live here.

Just a nibble

2011-03-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

About a month ago Hana said one of the funniest things in her nightly prayer. I don't want to forget it. What better way to document it than put it in my blog.

She was praying one night and one of her prayers were: "God I don't want to bite Ricky anymore. I just want to nibble on him."

She makes me laugh so much everyday. I am truly blessed to have Hana in my life.

KINDERGARTEN HOE DOWN

2011-03-21T16:53:00.000-07:00

Before spring break Kohrville elementary school had their hoe down or otherwise known as western day. Lil Ricky looked so cute in his cowboy hat. They performed a handful of dances for the parents.
Super cute.

SPRING BREAK 2011!!

2011-03-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

We always look forward to Spring Break because we get to go visit the grandparents. This spring break we spent the whole week there. From Mon - Fri. We did so much. For me the biggest thing was celebrating Hana's birthday. She turned 4 on Sat. So Thursday we made her a cake (vanilla with vanilla frosting). Grandpa grated fresh chocolate on top. Can you say Yum! I think the cake was gone in 1 day :). Hana also got her first Dora doll. She was super excited. Which surprised me because she hardly ever likes watching Dora. Who knew?!

We went to Doc's restaurant for lunch one day. It was nice. We got to sit outside over looking the water. We spent a lot of time at the beach. Hana loves playing in the sand. Ricky is more interested in getting in the surf. The water was super cold. I had a hard time getting my big toe in. Not Ricky. He was a trooper. He was out there jumping the waves. The whole time while he's out I was praying that I wouldn't have to go in and rescue him. I'm hoping instinct would of kicked in. No joke. The water was C.O.L.D....cold.

One night we went to Treasure Island where we played putt putt golf. Ricky loved it. He did pretty good at starting out hitting. After that the balls kind of just got rolled in. Ricky was a maniac with the golf club. I got hit in the head one time =(. Hana she was hot and cold. At times she'd want to hit the ball other times she was more interested in discovering the courses.

We got back on Fri. Sat we went to Ricky's niece wedding in Giddings. It was nice and fun to get out. I had a good time dancing with little Ricky. I'm embarrassed to admit that he does the "cha cha" slide better than me. Lil Ricky and Hana also danced. It was super cute. Lil Ricky twirled her around. Hard to believe he's 6 and knows how to dance with a girl. Hmmmmmm I wonder where he learned that.

On Sunday we hung out around the house and played football, raced, bought vegetable plants. Definitely fun and relaxing.

I think Ricky was ready to go back to school on Monday and see his friends.

Ricky checking everything out.

My angels at the wedding.

Love this picture. I have such handsome boys in my life.

Ricky is ADDICTED to wordfeud. Yup that's what he's doing now. I need an intervention, please.

My happy little girl.

Ricky and his brother in law.

I can't get over how good Ricky dances. He was twirling Hana. So precious.

Ricky and his 1/2 sister.

Lil Ricky is taking an interest in football. Fun!! Love playing tackle football with him.

Some tackle football going on..... I think

Hana shooting baskets. She made almost every one!

Ricky going for a pass. And he caught it!!

Let the fun begin.

The water was soooooo cold.

Hana very happy with all her toys!

Too busy sticking sand in her suit =(

Yum her birthday cake with fresh grated chocolate.

Love

She's so smart to hold her bangs. No hair fire here.

This is what Hana's hole in 1 looks like.

I can't believe how big my lil boy is!

Ricky made her a bday sign to put on her shirt. So everyone knows it's her birthday.

Ariel =)

Sponge Bob dvd's Ricky bought her. Not really sure who those are for????

Another Little Ricky Quote

2011-03-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

We were fishing one Sunday afternoon. Lil Ricky was telling us how he is giving out his (mine) phone number to his friends. One in-particular little girl. So we ask him why he's not getting girl's numbers. He said that girls try to give him their numbers but he tells them he doesn't want it because he's not that kind of guy.

Where does he get this? He's so funny!!

Happy 4th Birthday Hana!!

2011-03-19T08:36:00.000-07:00

Four years ago today God has blessed me with a precious and spirited little girl. She has brought so much joy and laughter into our lives.
I can't believe 4 years have already gone by! Didn't I just bring her home yesterday? I wish I could stop time and let her stay little forever.
Hana,
You are such an amazing little girl. I wake up each morning not knowing what mischieve you have in-store for us. It's something new and exciting everyday. There doesn't go a day where you don't make us laugh with your fire cracker of an attitude. I could watch you play for hours or I love how out of the blue you say "mommy I love you". You are a very sweet little girl. You always make sure you share or that others are taken care of.
Mostly I love your hugs and smile. They could make anything better.
I thank God everyday for blessing me with you. I love you more than you'll ever know.
Mommy

ANOTHER TOOTH GONE!

2011-03-09T11:37:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, March 6 Ricky lost another tooth. We had no idea he had one loose. Daddy took Ricky and Hana to see Rango and while eating popcorn it fell out. The tooth fairy brought Ricky another $3 which Ricky was super excited about.

Look What I Found!

2011-03-09T10:58:00.000-08:00

Hana got bored one day and decided to explore. I should know when Hana is missing and it's very quiet that it's not a good thing. Sometimes the quietness outweighs the bad though. When she finally reappeared she was very proud of herself. She found my lipstick. I have to say she did a pretty good job applying it. The other day my eyeliner was all over her eyes. My heart sank because I thought it was a sharpie. Whew just eyeliner. She's so funny. There isn't a day that she doesn't make me laugh. She is extremely smart and witty.

A BEAUTIFUL DAY AT HUNTSVILLE STATE PARK.

2011-03-09T10:54:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite things to do as a family is take a trip to the Huntsville State Park. It's perfect. Trails for exploring, lakes for fishing and alligator searching. Even swimming. A couple of weeks ago on a beautiful Sunday afternoon, we thought it would be the perfect trip. We packed our coolers and headed north. It was a great day. Can't wait for the summer so we could take the kids up there to swim.

Hana putting her gymnastics to use.

This tree is a couple of feet of the ground. They walk it like pros.

Smoothie mustache

Hana being sassy

Daddy and Ricky climbing a tree that is over water. Let me tell you this has a way different feel than being over land. They both succeeded. Very proud of lil Ricky for being brave and getting to the end. This picture shows the beginning.

Takewondo Is Good For Me!!

2011-02-17T07:28:00.000-08:00

I put Ricky into Takewondo. I figured it was a shot. Maybe he'd like it? I have to say I am thrilled. He LOVES it!! It's so great seeing him go to something with a smile on his face and something he puts his all into. Master Hahn is great with the kids. He tries to make things into a game and jokes with them.
I love hearing Master Hahn at the end of each session tell me that Ricky is good or getting much better.
I love how it's building confidence in Ricky.
Right now we're working on getting his white belt. Master Hahn just doesn't give those out. You have to earn it.
It might not be the baseball or football that I had in mind when I had a little boy. I'm learning that it's not about what I want but it's about what makes him happy and what he enjoys. His smile is so worth it.
At least with Takewondo he will know how to protect himself. Which is super important for him, since he is so passive.
One of their saying during punching "Takewondo is good for me"
Right now we're just getting the basics down. After that we will introduce sparring. Lil Ricky can't wait.

Valentines Party

2011-02-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

I attended Ricky's Valentines day party at school. I love attending his class functions. He gets such a great smile. It was a nice party. The kids had juice and cookie (even Hana was able to get in on that), exchanged valentines. Which was super exciting for the kids. Than they played word bingo. Which was so much fun. Loved hearing all the kids get excited when they had only 1 more word in the column/row left to win.

I did find out that the girl Ricky has a crush on sits right next to him. So cute!! It was great seeing Ricky help another student who wasn't as strong as him in reading find the words. He's such the perfect student.

Hana was kind of on her own agenda. She found a small play table and spread out all of her toys. This kept her entertained for a little bit.

Earlier that day big Ricky volunteered for the Valentines day fun run in P.E. The kids run the 1/2 track (10 laps equal a mile.) and which class gets the most wins a Popsicle party. Ricky's class won it!!!! Ricky did a great job in running. He ran 12 laps!! So proud of him. He was one of the boys who ran the most. I also think he was showing off for dad =).

Ms.Narum with the kids.

Hana had her own party going on.

REPORT CARD

2011-02-17T07:01:00.000-08:00

Ricky received his 2nd 9 weeks report card for Kindergarten. He's such a smart little boy. He got all E's. Okay 1 S. It was in class participation. He only received an S because he doesn't raise his hand enough. He is a shy boy in class. Always has been. It takes him a while to talk in class. All his teachers were always shocked that he talked. So him raising his hand once in a while is great for him and also stepping out of his comfort zone. I don't agree with the S for that reason. I don't believe bringing down his grade because he's shy.
At the awards ceremony Ricky received an award for Math, All A honor roll and Principals award.
So proud of my little guy. He's doing amazing in school academically and socially.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2011-01-02T14:27:00.000-08:00

We celebrated New Years with our friends this year. It was a fun time. We were with people we loved and family. There's nothing more important than that. We had a little fun with fireworks. I sent Ricky for a few sparklers for the kids and he comes back with the huge kahuna!!

Happy New Year!!

Having fun with the sparklers.

Daddy is too!

We are playing with the big stuff now ;)

Almost New Year. So tired.

This is how Hana brought in the New Year.

SAYING GOOD BYE TO 2010!

2010-12-31T14:24:00.000-08:00

We're saying goodbye to 2010 and hello to 2011!
2010 was definitely a roller coaster of a year.

Hana: She started 3 year old pre k this year. Going Tue/Thurs. She loves it. She has made friends quickly. Hana as always dances to her own tune.
She did gymnastics this year. She showed some great talent. Due to her cold and hot attitude towards it, I had to pull her. She has decided she wants to be a ballerina. So that will be our next quest.

Ricky II: Ricky started Kindergarten this year. Such a huge milestone. He is going to Kohrville. He is doing incredible. Not only is he making great friends, but he is thriving academically. His report card reflected all "E"s and he received 4 awards. Including the Coyote award. Only 1 child from each class picked. Others were attendance, math and Principal's award (conduct).
Ricky played another season of T-ball/baseball. He didn't show much interest, but when he did he showed some talent. We were so proud of him and ecstatic every time he hit a pitched ball!
This year Ricky lost 5 teeth!!! Once they started they didn't stop. The tooth fairy went broke at $3 per tooth.

Ricky I: Spent most of the year working the store. Work and no play. The year has been tough in the furniture market.. As he saw a lot of small stores and distributors close their doors, Ricky kept hope alive. His hard work, hope and faith has payed off. The end of the year showed a good come back. We just pray that it keeps in that direction.
Ricky had decided to get healthy the very end of this year!!! We are super excited. He has already lost 12 lbs in about 2.5 weeks. Praises to Ricky because he picked the hardest time of year to be on a strict diet plan. As he says he's loosing his marbling =).

Nikola: Me = ). Let's see. As a stay at home mom. I really don't think I did anything all that exciting other than take care of my 2 precious babies, clean house, grocery shopped, do laundry, cook etc.....
Raising my boogers and trying to do it right is more than I could ever do anywhere else. So I feel like I have done a lot.
Many people think I am just a stay at home mom. I actually do work a little from home for the business. I place a lot of Internet ads. It's the main reason Santa gave me a laptop. This way Hana doesn't have to be left watching TV in the morning all by herself, or lay on the floor in the study as I type away.
I took the kids to the beach a few times this summer. We visited my parents on N. Padre Island. Ricky loves jumping the waves or boogie boarding. Hana loves playing in the sand.

As a family we visited Disney Land and Freddy and his family in California. The kids had such a great time seeing all the Disney Characters. We ate with the princesses where my kids were the honored guests. I saw my favorite princess. Bell. We had an unforgettable time.
After a 3rd day full of fun we drove 3 hours north to visit Ricky's friend Freddy and his family. They showed us around their little California town. All I know is that north California is cold. The scenery was beautiful. From the beaches to the mountains.

As we say goodbye to 2010 we're looking forward to 2011. Can't wait to see what kind of amazing things this year holds for us.

Before I end here are my new year resolutions for 2011:
Learn to sew ( I know I had the same one for 2010, but maybe this year is it!)
Redo our house i.e. bathrooms, living room area and window treatments. If I really want to push it than granite counter tops for the kitchen.
Another family vacation.