Cricket and Pip

A day at San Tan with The Captain

2012-02-08T19:24:00.000-08:00

We met Julyssa and 2 of her kids at San Tan awhile back to grab some paperwork. Julyssa and I ran to the Apple store whilst your Captain was on Captain duty. He goes all crazy and takes you guys on the train around the place. (He is a baller yo) Below is the picture after "someone" let some really stinky gas in the caboose. Ahh gross.

He then stuffed all ya'alls in a grocery cart and made his way over to the Apple store to let us know that you, Miss. A, needed to use the facilities. AND. Really, you didn't just take 5 kids to the bathroom? You are such a muy complainer.

Here is the trend I'm noticing in ALL of la photos. That would be Ms. N takes a great picture. She is posing for every single shot.

1st Tooth is OUT THE DOOR

2012-02-06T18:56:00.000-08:00

We came home from the cruise to you, Miss A, with 2 very loose teeth. I asked if I could feel them.......heeheehee you learned the lesson that your siblings already knew. That is......I LOVE TO PULL TEETH. You cried for a bit. The next day it was all sunshine and butterflies, for you received $2.00 from Ms. Tooth Fairy.

L A Cetto

2012-02-04T14:46:00.000-08:00

This is the second winery that we visited. Apparently Mr. LA Cetto came down to Mexico from Italy in the 30's. His three sons (Also L. A. Cettos) run it now.

A lovely photo of La Nathan's.

Bedtime conversations

2012-02-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

A: "I don't want to go sleep. I keep having bad dreams about blood sucking poodles."

Me: " When I can't sleep I like to think about things that make/made me happy. Disneyland is a great one. Just lay there and think about riding Pirates of the Caribbean."

E: " I like to think about my fingers." (giggling)

Me: "What?" (strange face made by your mother)

E: "Yeah, I really don't wish to be fingerless, so I am happy I have fingers and like to think about them."

Last night whilst I was cleaning up the counter in the kitchen you walked over and said,

C: "Hey, I heard this line on Dinner for Schmucks and was wondering what it means."

Me: "What was it?"

C: "Hey I lost the clitoris."

Me: (in a very calm professora voice) " It is located at the top of the vagina. It is under a small hood of skin and women have it to help them have an orgasm. Would you like to know what an orgasm is?"

AT this POINT you make a face like you licked Uncle Danny's black head that is the size of a walnut on his back. I wish we had cameras on you 24/7 because it was one of the funniest faces I've seen from you.

C: "NO, no I don't want to know."

Me: "Really, I would love to explain it all to you."

C: "No, really please don't tell me."

You ran away from me as fast as possible. I walked in to my bedroom and dad was on the bed in hysterics.

Bus tour of wine country with mi amigas a plenty

2012-01-30T19:59:00.000-08:00

Look at that beard. Do you even have an idea of how bad it smells after he drinks wine and eats some cheese? Think back to your younger years and remember the odor...............

It smells like hummus that has been left in a Ford Flex after being on a cruise for 4 days muchachos. Aside from the ass beard he was having such a bueno time that it was easy to ignore the stench.

This was one of the best tours we have taken. There are so many vineyards throughout the area it was so beautiful. It reminded me of our trip to Spain. I felt so warm and fuzzy ( No, not from wine) it was because it was so dreamy. The first stop was La Casa De Dona Lupe. I introduced myself to her and she told me to facebook friend her. (Remember facebook was a way for us to make friends on the computerbox) I purchased tons of olive oil, jelly, and hot sauce. We munched on bread, cheese, and pizza during the tour. Bellin was our tour guide and she was very informative on all wines and olives. Your dad hit it off with her and here is their pose.

It was such a relaxing outdoor eating area located inside the fields of grapes.

Dad, Toby, and Greg stared lovingly into each others ojos during the tasting. Well, maybe just Toby and Greg. It looks like they have a real connection and your dad might be a bit jealous.

Heather, Lauren, Chris, Nate and Greg all posed for me in front of the bull arena.

August 17 is when they have a huge fiesta. A bull fight, mariachis, and food from 10am - midnight.

Cruisen

2012-01-30T19:38:00.000-08:00

Dad and I just went on a wee cruise around the......tiny area of Ensenada. Twas lovely. Dad belongs to a group where the people are on a spiritual journey. 26 of them were on board with us. I formed so many wonderful relationships. It was such a lovely time and yet we missed all of you so very much.

Our first/only stop was in Ensenada. We left the boat a couple of hours before our excursion to tour the town. We landed on Main St. Your dad plopped himself down for some of his Mexican favorites - beer and salsa.

Look at his face; he is so happy that he is about to taste the corn of his homeland.
He is thinking, "Aye Mehico, land of my home. I have missed tu queso y mono. Diga me, lover Jennifer, do I look more Mexhican today than yesterday -YES - I do. I can convey all of this with my eyes. I don't even have to verbalize this to my lady. She knows me. She amores me."

We traveled with the Leavits. They are awesome. We drove over and back with them. It made the ride muy pleasant and entertaining. On the ride home we sang some Flight of the Concords. I love Bret and Jermaine. Seriously, I would consider polyandry if Jermaine would wish it so. Your dad just seconded the motion. Ya'all would get a song every evening that would intrigue - AND - put you to sleep. Add to that it would be done in an accent that would make everything sound sophisticated. Damn, that man can sing.

The L's purchased some rice necklaces for their children. After the necklaces completion we joined The Captain for some comida.

Look at his face lovers. He is in Mexican bliss.

Cowgirl Day 2012

2012-01-26T15:48:00.000-08:00

I think this may be my absolute favorite picture of all time. Ava darling, you were exquisite. You told us that you are going to be a cowgirl when you grow up. NOT A FARMER GIRL. They have to pick up animal poop and you just want to catch bad guys. I picked you up today in this outfit. You came complete with "Purple Girl" your horse; as well as, you 2 marshmallow guns. Holy smokes you are hot stuff. This picture reminds me of OKLAHOMA the musical.

Five thought you were crazy and kept growling and chasing you. You rode "Purple Girl" and ran after her.

Oh my goodness. You are insanely funny. I kept / keep getting pelted in the face with candy. When I said, "Don't shoot me in the face." your response was, "Mrs. McClure said just not the eyes. Your face should be fine. It really is too bad you didn't get to go to my school when you were little."

Hiking South Mountain

2012-01-26T15:36:00.000-08:00

We hiked South Mountain the other Sunday. It was so amazing. 70 degrees, everyone hiked, and then we went out to eat.
Gracias amigas

2012-01-10T09:55:00.000-08:00

So we wrote out our New Years Resolutions. Quite the list this year. Top priority - working out. I know, I know, so cliche. Whatevs. We are pursuing the goal of the health with vigor. I received the BODYBUGG as of yesterday and we will torture our bodies once again tonight. I appreciate all of ya'alls support. I know it is super hard to set the table and miss us whilst we are away, but is soooo appreciated. I know you wish for me to live Faever and constantly say things like, "I think that plane is flying to low." or " In etiquette school you need to learn to look people in the eye and speak clearly." or "No, I swear this is my real accent. " or " Seriously, you guys are the smartest kids on the planet."

Mucho Gracias for la patience!!

La Madre

gym bar

2012-01-05T13:27:00.000-08:00

Party till it Yurts

2012-01-02T20:01:00.000-08:00

Your dad thoroughly enjoys coming up with funny names / sayings. Since we recently put up the yurt, it has been all giggles around here with his funniness. We christened the yurt on New Years. Dad had a friend in town staying with us. Add a few other friends and strangers came over for a dance party. I made burritos and put a very fancy 80's playlist together.

Tis Kristine and I. Below Kristen is trying to convince Garrison that 2nd cousins are allowed to have children together. (I don't believe he is so sure. Look at his body language. The chick in the middle could care less; she is all about the brownie sundae in her red cup.)

The YURT was awesome. Check out this lovely pic prior to people arriving.

So one of the guests teaches film and such at Collins College. According to him he is "a big deal". I'm thinking he thinks dad is a "big deal". If this isn't the look of amore I don't know what is!

Smeeks y Frances

2012-01-02T12:04:00.000-08:00

Smeeks = happiness

There is also muy bonding at the Smeeks

These pictures make me laugh. It is like you two were in a modeling shoot and I was like, "Smile - no frown - someone took your candy - you are mad - mad I say. Pensive. Deep in thought. "

We sat outside whilst the Tia went to the boutique next door. Everyone inspected their candy boxes and started partaking of the fruit.

Oh Tia Allie loves herself some Frances. She finds the cutest necklaces and bracelets there.

Smores A LA Lebaron

2012-01-02T11:51:00.001-08:00

The worlds cutest baby factory like - - - - EVER. Then when you look to the right of the breeder you are all "Damn, look at that bad ass. He must fly helicopters"

This last picture confuses the hell out of me. Why can the Captain not take even 1 good picture? This one of like he just caught an Armadillo and his friends call him Squirrel because he likes to catch and eat baby squirrels.

I must say, you #3, aren't any better in the photo op area. DEER. For Petes sake you two take a class if need be, but get it together.

Lebarons Day 2 y 3

2012-01-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

You look old

2012-01-02T11:38:00.001-08:00

The Lebarons Visit 2011

2012-01-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

We love ourselves some Lebarons. We took a little hay / Christmas lights ride through the neighborhood. Hot damn it was cold. We last only a couple of blocks.

Miss. E. You received some new arrows for Christmas and this pose reminded Tia Allie and I of Katniss.

Check out this face. Hilarious. You, #4, thought you were a pirate. You were yelling " Arrrrgh" and swiping your arm like "You were having a jolly good time."

Skateland - Tall people style

2012-01-02T10:09:00.000-08:00

Cody and Kristine invited us to an "adults only night" at Skateland. Twas awesome. As you can see in the above picture she was not welcoming a photo of herself. I dig the groovy hand. Your father and myself were the only "tall" people to dress up for the festivities. It was skateland. How can an adult go to skateland and NOT dress up like they are straight out of 1984 yo?

It boggles my mind. Can I say that you father and I have never put on skates in each others presence before. That's why it twas a miracle peeps, when it turns out we are skate-life-partners. We were amazing. He would throw me around and catch me and then spin me around the side. Hot damn he is a roller skating genius.

I mean look at this picture. (Can I add that I overheard 4 people say "nice wig" to your dad. hahahahhahahaha) He exudes skate-lover.

This may very well be our Christmas card next year. I know none of you are in it, but does that really matter? This picture is a classic. By classic I mean it is the essence of our skate-love. No, he is not grabbing my chest region. It was a pose Carter, sheesh show some maturity like we are so obviously exhibiting.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-02T09:56:00.001-08:00

This picture is hilarious.

1. Danny has gone all sexy face for his Pepsi. It is like he is married to his girlfriend "Pepsi"
2. Ellie, you look crazy
3. Nate, you are muy confused by your brothers bride.
4. Paige, what the heck. I don't let you watch Gossip Girl so I'm fairly confused as to this pose. Perhaps you are channeling J Lo. If this is the case then........................nice one. J Lo is muy confident and I enjoy her choice of headwear. Remember when you totally pulled off scarf head on Idol? It was a moment.

Ava's Christmas Program. AMAZING

2011-12-22T19:53:00.000-08:00

I must say this may be one of my favorite pictures. The program was divine. I'm trying to figure out how to post the video to Feliz Navidad. When the chorus came on everyone was supposed to "rock out". You, Miss. 4, decided to run back and forth between all of the kids from one end of the stage to the other. Over and over and over. I could barely keep up with the camera and where you were. Twas awesome.

Ellie's choir concert, Uncle Danny looking annoyed, and my lack of skill with the "red eye"

2011-12-22T19:41:00.000-08:00

Funniest picture ever

2011-12-18T17:39:00.000-08:00

This might be one of the funniest pictures I have ever seen.

1. I love a good chicken and this one happens to be gigantic.
2. I love a good do. I must say this hair looks sooooo silky soft. It also has such a cute pincurl mohawk - Ahhhhh.
3. I love a little gender neutrality. I really can't tell if it is a boy or a girl. It doesn't really matter because #4 rocks them all
4. A bit of irreverence. A cig hanging out of the side of a 4 yr olds mouth whilst sitting on a smallish chair next to a large chicken whilst wearing mary janes.

As I am sitting here writing this I hear from my bed.

Captain, "I also invented chocolate after I invented snowboarding."

Ava, "What else?"

The Captain al la 2011

2011-12-09T12:35:00.000-08:00

I've always told your dad that he has a constant look that says, "Hey I might be trying to hide the fact that I just robbed a bank." I think this picture truly exemplifies the theme.

I forgot to post this. I took this photo just before your money mental was glued to your teeth. Look how happy you were to get the braces. It will be hilarious to post the after picture next to this one. You guys will be like 22 and in college.

2011 was the year of the hair. Who would EVER have thought that you would have gone from (the pic below) to (the pic above) Not I fo sho.

2011-12-05T16:06:00.000-08:00

A, "I want some beans that are smashed and liquidy."

Mom, "Ok. You would like some frijoles?"

A, "heeheeeheeehehee is that the Spanish word for beans."

Mom, "Why yes it is. Would you like some frijoles y arroz?"

A, "Dorla speaks Spanish. (This is Dora the explorer yo. You had a really hard time pronouncing her name) And hehehehe Tiko (again a character from Dora the Explorer) only speaks the Spanish. I think this was because he lives in Spanish world. It is so funny because he NEVER speaks anything but the Spanish."

Mom, "You know your dad didn't speak English until he was 10? His first language was Spanish."

A, "(LARGE GASP) Oh my gosh - I KNEW IT - he lived in the Spanish world also. That is crazy that he and Tiko lived in Spanish world and ate frioooles."

SIck Days

2011-12-04T20:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, that is some of the puke on your face. You've been fighting something for a couple of weeks. Yesterday you woke up with a fever. When you came in the front room to veg on my lap (FOR FOUR HOURS) you said,

A "I am so tired."

Mom, "Well go back to bed."

A, " I can't. I keep having nightmares. Then I wake up. Then I can't remember the nightmares."

Mom, "That stinks. Oh honey you are hot. You are running a fever."

A, "What does that mean."

Mom, "There are some bad bugs in your body. Your body is making the good bugs to eat the bad ones. Cool huh. During that time you run a fever and feel kind of uncomfortable."

A, "I KNOW WHY I'M HAVING THE NIGHTMARES. I HAVE THE FEVER. THE FEVER MAKES THE NIGHTMARES!!!!!!!! IT ALL MAKES SENSE NOW."

Yenta

2011-11-29T18:14:00.000-08:00

This is your dad's super sexy face. EWWWEE MOM GROSS. I know, but children this is what look he used to hook me in. Hahahahah actually this picture makes me giggle like a young baseball player.

Your father fancies himself a Yenta. Seriously. So he is trying to fix his friend Ben up and starts searching the customer lists of Babbitt Motor Werks facebook account. Yep, that happened. So he has these 2 ladies in mind and starts searching for them. All of the sudden I hear laughing. Laughing like he does when he bombs the bathroom. You know the one I mean. The one where he is all, "I just destroyed that place." Damn that is nasty.

Back to the laughing. So he is like

Dad "Guess what? The 2 girls I wanted to fix up are engaged."

Me/voice of reason, "Oh that's too bad."

Dad, "TO EACH OTHER."

What what? Seriously. Turns out your dad has no gaydar.

Twilight

2011-11-29T18:02:00.000-08:00

I was running errands the other day when you called me and asked if you could go see the new Twilight Movie with Alyssa.

BackGround: I had discouraged reading these books due to the unreal example of what a healthy relationship is. i.e. boyfriend watching you sleep. OR Trying crazy - dangerous activities when you get dumped by your boyfriend. OR dumping all of your friends just to "hang" with your boyfriend 24/7 etc......

So I thought about it for a minute. You expressed that you thought you were old enough to view this movie. I expressed that she gives birth and there will probably quite a bit of blood. You again stated that this should be okay.

When I spoke with Alyssa's mom she shared the following:

She was speaking with her girlfriend about going to the movies and how she hadn't yet heard back from Alyssa's friends mother (Me!!). Her friend said, "This is the girl that saw 2 chickens being killed in front of her. She will be fine."

Love this perspective. I am going to now apply the CHICKEN RULE to situations that I encounter with you, Miss. P. For example:

Let's say you ask to go to a haunted house that I would normally deem inappropriate. CHICKEN RULE. Haunted House = not as scary as a chicken massacre.

OR

Let's say you want to play light as a feather stiff as a board at a sleep over. Never mind that is super funny.

OR

You wish to go out with a boy that has a bone sticking out of his nose holes, he uses the "foul" language (Hehehehehe fowl language) and he also is known for an affection for the raw meat. I would implement the CHICKEN RULE and say "way worse than a chicken massacre. No to the date"

2011-11-28T15:44:00.000-08:00

I walked in to your and your sister's room last night to the sound of words being repeated. E, you had a notebook and you were reciting "new and difficult" words for A to repeat.

"Approach" "Approach"

"Appointment" "Appointment"

"Extinct" "It stinks"

"Extinct" "IT STINK"

E, "Ava, just because I am saying it slowly doesn't mean that you do that also. You need to say it correctly and say it fast."

A - You look like you get it and then say that "it stinks" once again.

The Holidays round here

2011-11-28T15:41:00.000-08:00

We ventured out the other night with La Longes and it turns out Matthew and your Father think they are hat men. Matthew was kind enough to get your dad a hat and scarf to wear out with them. Oh, how kind of him.

We move on to the man-boy child. Braces are muy dinero. We enjoy their abilities.

Miss. A, you and I went out for lunch the other day. It was a place called TruFood. You enjoyed yourself. You spoke to me the entire lunch about subjects that interested you.
A. Cats that fart rainbows
B. Unicorns that fart rainbows
C. When you wear your Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle dress to school your teacher likes it so much she sits by you the whole time.

We went to see the Muppet movie on Sat. Holy Cow it was good. I swayed to the music and I tried really hard not to cry when they sang my song. It was really hard damn it. Jason Segel is awe-amzing. He brought back the lovely puppets and it was so uber cute.

Whilst at the theater you - Mr. C and you Miss. A posed for a Star Wars pic. They are mighty fierce.

This picture is hilarious.

A day in the life of La Mentally Handicapped

2011-11-22T15:49:00.000-08:00

Remember this photo? This was when tu padre and I signed the recall petition back in la dia for La Racist Pearce. Sad to say that my faith had waned in the general public of this fine city; but I was madly surprised to see that they voted La Racist out of office. I know SHOCKING!!! La Racist is none to happy about it and is now just making shit up on Foxx news. That=not SHOCKING.

Mesa just upgraded themselves from the Alabama 1964. Heck Alabama 2011; I'm not fooling myself into thinking Good Ol' Alabami has changed all that much. Mesa is now so bright with some integrity that it has me shining my happiness up in every ones bizness.

Let's take Uncle Danny - for example. He is like that guy in that Peter Pan movie that Robin Williams was in where he LITERALLY lost his marbles. Tio Daniel has gone and misplaced his tiny brain balls. Me hopes that he will somehow recover them. 2 days ago he forgot where he parked his golf cart. He forgot who dropped him off as soon as they pulled out of the driveway. Since this is just the saddest thing and I don't like to cry, we have decided to make it into a memory making - foot stomping - lovely time.

When he forgets something we will now sing the Umpa Lumpa song. We will drive around and find "whatever" he has lost. Who can be sad when they are singing that freaking song? This kid in the picture has a genius for a mother. Seriously lady, well done. Los Daniel - we will survive. You might lose a golf cart or shirt or pants in the process (yes he keeps walking out of his "home on wheels" with only some undeewears on) but we will survive the Alzheimer's.

I might have to take a card out of the Nancy Reagan playbook and put you in some clothes that zip up in the back. I might also have to tattoo your name and address on your hairy body. I may also change your name so your Alzheimersy self has a name I enjoy - like - Roy or Floyd. No matter what La Daniel y Roy, it will be an adventure.

Treat day

2011-11-21T15:04:00.000-08:00

Last night I was scratching your back and discussing how you were going to be in charge of treats tomorrow at school. You asked what I packed for the treat. When I answered Graham crackers you said (In a very high squeaky voice)

"Mom, the kids are going to say, "Really Ava. Again?""

It turns out that you were none too happy with this announcement. You made the proposition that you could bring some leftover Halloween candy also.

A.E.W.B

2011-11-15T18:03:00.000-08:00

A.H recently came over to do a photo shoot for a family and was kind enough to snap some pics of you Miss. AEWB. They are GorGeous!

As I was posting these you were standing next to me complaining about not being able to find the salami. Hahaha Older you will think that sentence is funny. We really did just come home from the grocery store and I haven't unloaded the bags yet. You are in my ear being Persistent regarding la Salami.

Me the Mother, "A, you are about to lose some privileges and that will be a bummer. That means no iphone, ipad, or Tv tomorrow."

A: "Aww mom. Can I at least pet a dog if I see one?"

Random. This is what went through your mind when you start to lose la privileges. Roja Muchacha this is very funny. Next time you make the choice not to do the right thing I will list "Dog Petting" as a consequence.

Gorillas

2011-11-08T17:54:00.000-08:00

Paige: "Mom, do you think there are aliens. "

Me: "Yes. (your sister gives me a look like I've dropped my marbles in the sink.) Don't you think if we saw a dinosaur right now and you weren't previously educated on them you would think - - - - ALieN"

Paige: "Maybe, but they are extinct, just like we are going to be extinct. There is proof on other planets that there was life and now they are extinct. We just showed up after the dinosaurs and will last for a bit."

Me: "Where did we come from?"

Paige: "Well you could say God; or you could be sci ency and say gorillas."

The rest of dinner you gave us a "lesson" on some worm that has a name like hydrocephlofungus and just giggled telling us all about it. You looked at us like we were aliens when we said we didn't know what they were. You muchacha crack me up.

Daniel

2011-11-07T19:51:00.000-08:00

Danny walked in to the office today whilst I was looking at a picture of a Nikon 1 camera that I am coveting. I said:

Me, "Yo Daniel. Waz up in your biziness?" (I know I am not very good at the g talk. What I say doesn't even make sense.)

D: "Is that a camera that lets you see inside of the earth?"

Me, "Huh. No it is not ."

D: "That sucks. You can only take pictures of people."

Me, "Yes."

D: "That's too bad."

What the hell just happened? Uncle Danny has been acting mighty strange as of late. This is one of those comments that makes me wonder what he has been watching on the cable.

Oh #2

2011-11-01T21:39:00.000-07:00

Oh, mouth full of money, you have been cracking your dad and I up. Maybe this is because we finally started talking to you.

Regardless, you told a hilarious story about some boy named Ronnie who let's you and your ladies know if your outfits are cute or not. He also told you that he has 2 kids. One child he fathered when he was out at a night club and hooked up with a 29 yr old girl. You broke down the math for him and explained that he was 3 at the time if his son is 8. You make us giggle!!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

It twas a crazy Halloween week. Chics and boy I said WEEK. We decided to have a joint birthday party for you - A and you - E. It was a great time and very tiring. Then there were school parties, friend parties, neighborhood parties, and then actual Halloween. Hot Damn I am happy to be done with it all.

Last night for "actual" Halloween we dropped you, P, off at Alyssa's and then went over to Kristen and Matt's house for yous E and A to trick - o -treat. Carter, you decided to stay home and read the 11th book of Rangers Apprentice that just came out. It was a great time at Kristen and Matt's. Your dad kind of outed Matt on possibly changing his religious views. Outed as in mentioning it to Matt's parents. AWKWARD. Do you know what was even more awkward? It was when someone told another someone that they "think to much". This was said with much distaste. It was said like they had just swished salty poo water in their mouth to cleanse their palate. Your dad always brings it. Love him.

We drove home and while dad and I were unloading the car I told all of you to go brush your teeth. When we walked in this is what we found:

It looks mighty uncomfortable. It took maybe 90 seconds for this to happen. I admire this talent.

On a side note: You came up to me today and said:

A: " Did you put the pool cover on because I decided I liked to swim on top of the water and not under it?"

Mom: " No."

A: " Did you know that I would close my eyes and use my imagination as a map to find the step?"

Mom: "Huh. Sometimes you say the fanciest things."

Glorious Paige

2011-10-31T22:10:00.000-07:00

Before running over to your class to help I dropped Miss. A off in Kristin's room for some fiesta time. Kristine loves herself some Ava and Lacy was there to assist. You, Miss A, said

"I know why Kristen loves me. It is because I am cute and small."

Yo, like 6th graders.

I helped a wee bit with your 6th grade "fall / Halloween" party. Your classmates are super swell and very polite. You, Alyssa, Allie, and McKenna huddled up and didn't really participate in the game so much. You did partake of the candy. Latrenda, Alyssa's mother helped with the game. It is so lovely that all of your friends have such great moms.

Miss. Pahina. You have been cracking me up today. You came home from school, hopped on my bed, and started the following conversation (one -sided I must add):

P: "Soooo, I didn't study for my Science test in ELP and so (giggling in a super nerdy way) I thought I would only get 100% on it. (excuse moi. I may not be in ELP, but that doesn't sound super smarty pants) "

Momtastic: "Interesting. I will keep listening and hope that I catch on. What grade did you get?"

P: "(nerd giggling to the point you couldn't breathe) I got 119%. I answered all of the extra credit and the bonus question. Do you want to know what the funniest is?"

Momtastic: "Of Course (trying to giggle like a nerd)"

P: " I actually missed one on the test, but I totally shouldn't have. I thought it said extinct when I answered it but it said extant."

Momtastic: "Let me interrupt for one sec. What is extant?"

P: "(LARGE sigh) Really mom? It is when something is livin............It is the exact opposite of extinct."

It was like you decided not to waste your time explaining it to me. Rather you simplified it as much as you could and dumbed it down for la Mama. Mucho Gracias Grande Cabeza.

P: "I scored 3rd highest in the class. I had to come back and forth to the extra credit because I didn't remember everything right away. If I had answered the extant one correct I would have been 2nd."

So you went to a Halloween party at Rachel's house over the weekend. I dropped you off at Alyssa's and you two went together. You said the Haunted House was super scary. Tonight you went back to Alyssa's and went trick - o - treating in her neighborhood. We just picked you up and you wouldn't stop talking about how "friendly and polite" the neighborhood is. You said that no one really knew that you were a 70's girl except for Jarin's girlfriend named Seaver. Funny story about getting ready for Halloween tonight; it goes a little something like this:

P: "Mom, can you help me do my hair for tonight?"

Momsome: "I need to finish Ava's hair. Blow dry yours and then I will curl it."

P: "(whiny whiny) Fine."

At this point your dad and I are on our bed and I am combing Ava's hair and putting it up. Suddenly I hear:

P: "Mom come help me. Mom come help me. MOM COME HELP ME. (at this point there is complete panic in your voice. Did I mention that the blow dryer is STILL on) MOOOOM THE BLOW DRYER IS SUCKING MY HAIR UP. HELLLP"

Momsome: " (running at the speed of light and yelling) TURN THE BLOW DRYER OFF. TURN THE BLOW DRYER OFF."

Unfortunately some hair had to be removed with scissors.

Cassidy's 16th Birthday Party

2011-10-27T22:03:00.000-07:00

So, the night before dad's birthday party Tia Karie threw Cassidey a Sweet 16 party at our house. The theme was Alice in Wonderland. It was awesome! Most of the cousins showed up and slept over. Cassidy is so lovely and we adore her!

Check out Silvia, Sarah, and Jordan! Oh Miss. E you were/are a wee bit obsessed with the hat Tia Karie made. You wouldn't take it off. She let you keep it and you wear it ALL of the time!

Uncle Larry hooked up the Wii outside and hung up a sheet for ya'all to play Just Dance. It was outside next to the pool and it was HI- ar-ious. Little Nathan is quite the dancer. The girls were all normal and you, Car ti er, and your wild cousin danced your rears off. (check out you Miss. A. You were right on in there)

Oh, another picture of you in the hat.

Oh son. You wore dad's birthday suit to Cassidy's party. Hahahaha that's awesome. I'm not referring to the suit of his birth / his skin suit. Ewe Mom. It was like today at work when I asked your cousin Kameron to take the luggage rack off of the top of my car. He walked out to the shop and shouted.

"Hey Uncle Nathan. Aunt Jen wants me to take her top off. Where do you want me to put it?"

Dad just stopped working, stared, and then said in an uber creepy voice,

"Aunt Jen makes me feel dirty."

Back to the shindig. Cassidey met some new Sirrine cousins. She looks so happy in this picture!! Love you darling!

Oh My

2011-10-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

When I arrived at my lovely job today your father had this on my desk. He walked in a bit later and I said,

Me, "Why is this on my desk."

Hot Tech, "I walked in to find Kameron's girlfriend and Bobby looking at this and giggling."

Me, "That is strange. What am I not getting?"

Hot Tech, "I know. I asked them what was so funny. Turns out they thought stalking and stocking were the same thing and thought it meant - STALKING IN PROGRESS."

Me, " (silence)......................... I never would have thought that."

Glamping part V

2011-10-19T15:19:00.000-07:00

Whilst strolling on the beach you, Mr. 1, decided it would be an opportune time to wrestle with tu padre. I believe it took him by surprise.

There was some head butting and then some sort of spinny leg move. Zoom in on your dad's face in the below pic. Hahahahahahaha tis hilarious. It looks like he is laugh-pooping.

It looks quite uncomfortable.

Did I mention there was constant spinning like that tea saucer ride at "The Disneyland"?

Dad finally threw you off of him and you darted back to jump on top of the old guy. I would say that old man Babbitt held his own. It is sometimes surprising how strong this Gibb brother is.

Oh Little Princess

2011-10-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the day of thy birth. Tis a blessed event. Angels sang and your dad passed out when you were born. You have been just a smidgen excited about it. You have basically proclaimed it to anyone that would listen. Tonight you said to your manly dad and I,

"Tomorrow I am 5. Tomorrow I will grow up."

After I came home from running. (Yes, I ran when I was 35. If I am a fat ass when I am older please remember that I advocated running when you were younger. ) You said the following;

"Mrs. McClure is going to give me a crown for my birthday. She says we can have birthday spankings. No one ever takes the spankings. I am going to trick her and tell her that I REALLY want them this year."

You then proceeded to spank yourself with a smile and shout,

"Her spankings don't hurt! Watch me spank myself. It is awesome. "

Glamping part IV

2011-10-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

El Capitain lived up to our memories. We were able to fit a trip in to Santa Barbara once again. This time we got lost in the nicest neighborhood we have ever been in. We wound our way along some back roads along a cliff. Paige, you were sick. Car sick that is. When you were 12 you tended to get car sick. We are hoping you grow out of it - - soon.

Glamping / Mustaching

2011-10-17T13:33:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful time getting to know Luke and Charlotte this trip. It is muy enjoyable to see emerging personalities the older they get. Before we parted ways we all had a wee bit of lip sweater fun!

Glamping Part II

2011-10-17T13:28:00.000-07:00

Glamping Part I

2011-10-17T10:57:00.000-07:00

We went to El Capitan Canyon again this year. It was soooo great that Tia Allie and Uncle John (plus kids) could join us. Everyone had such a fabulous time!!! There are cute tiny cabins, a creek, fires to cook your food on, the ocean, bikes, an outdoor pool, playground, and total relaxation. Here is our trip down the block to the ocean. You will remember that the Lebaron's turned their back on La Motha Nature and she came rolling in to surprise them. Check out William's face "Surprise".

Whilst we were on the beach Tia Allie took some family pictures for us. LOVELY peeps.

We were hanging at the pool and I asked you, Miss, P to take our picture. This is what we received. Aside from the white moon in the picture, you dad looks like he is Super tired from singing "Tragedy" with his brothers Gibb.

This is what I was going for.

Just the Good Ol' Ladies (sing this to the tune of Dukes of Hazzard)

2011-10-09T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hola Lovers. Remember when good times like the above picture happen? I love some good Ol' Hermana bonding. This is one of the first pictures EVER of you, Ms. E, putting on a shirt with a little girliness to it. Pahina you have skull leg warmers on your arms. Oh wait, upon better inspection it is just the one arm - Rad. The reason I post this is because I was just reminiscing on my ipod and heard "Another One Bites the Dust". You both know that this is one of my all time favorite songs and this is in part due to the fact that I skated it to it at THE SKATELAND. I loved skating. I ran across this pic from a year ago when the 2 of you were on your way to the exact same spot. Ahhh, Ellie, you totally kicked some Skateland ASS. Good times ladies.

Onto another subject of mine: Mesassissippi 2011. Instead of black people or the ladies being discriminated against tis the Mexicans and the gays. No, I'm not kidding. If there is the google when you are older look up the year 2011. ...........................see crazy right.

I just had another person tell me they think people choose it and can stop being gay "like an addiction." Holy smokes. Here is a little poster someone put on facebook this week that I enjoyed:

Porfa Please Darling

2011-10-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

It seems as if pretty much anything can make you cry or go into a tailspin as of late. I do not mean this as a negative I just write this to give perspective. Yesterday you came home and dad I were sitting on our bed reciting poetry. You stated (very fast):

P: " In Math today Ali didn't sit by me. She sat by someone else and there was a spare spot by them for a minute and she didn't save it for me. I had to sit all by myself."

Tears started

Super Mom: "Huh. Well I guess this was a great opportunity to make some new friends just like Ali."

P: "MOOOOOM. (now screaming) I don't like making new friends and these weren't new friends for ALi. I had to sit by mean kids."

Somewhat Super Mom: "Oh. Sitting by yourself isn't that bad. Sometimes it is nice to have a little quiet time. This is especially nice while studying Math."

P: "You DON'T UnderSTAND!!!!!"

Not grasping what is going on Mom:" It is just that it is so nice to get to know everyone and be friends with everyone. Half of my friends are new. It is so nice to continually make new friends. (Smile and sigh)"

P: "(scream - crying) I didn't want you to solve my problem I just wanted you to comfort me!!!!"

Whoops.

The40th Birthday Party of La Year

2011-10-02T19:54:00.000-07:00

I threw your padre a birthday party last night. Twas an event people. We had a caterer come in and serve street tacos, there was a Mariachi Band, there was a neighbor that crashed that was 3 sheets to the wind and jumped off of the diving board whilst the band played, and there was just plain awesomeness.

The theme was a tribute to dad's homeland of Mexico. Your dad and I picked up some cute duds at a thrift store in Phoenix. Below you will notice that Benjamin showed up as some Napoleon Dyno- Mite character. I believe he is pulling it off with finesse.

Here are 2 happy party goers.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Mariachis.

A few others took the theme seriously and I muy appreciate it.

Look how serious I am. I take partying seriously. I made bread pudding. Enough said.

Paheena (Espanola for Paige)

2011-09-29T14:33:00.000-07:00

You turned the big One to the Two this week. Your birthday party consisted of :

1. Lunch at Spinatos

2. Dolphin Tale at the Movie Theater

3. Ice Cream at Cold Stone Yummy

Ali, Taya, and YOU.

Melanie and Alyssa

Ali, Taya, You, Melanie, Alyssa, and Tatum. You have such lovely friends. It is nice that you surround yourself with kind ladies. Tis good to be good to yourself.

Some improv dancen at the Co - Sto. Look at you in all of your Mexican colors. Dios Mio, you are fabulous. Tis like you have it ingrained in your DN and A that you are a Mexican. You are like a bowl of sunshine in a sea of gray.

The following morning on your actual B-Day we found ourselves at St. Francis for breakfast to celebrate. You ordered yourself an AMAZING pancake.

Tu hermano likes to practice his BEST smile like EVER. He actually did this face for his 8th grade pictures. That boy has a great sense of self. I enjoy meself some good Ol' fashioned bad pictures.

This blurry picture is of you - E - and tu padre opening your present. Twas a used i-pod touch. Yes EVERTHING we own is used. No, not your underwear; we aren't barbarians for Pete's sake. Just in case future Paige goes all Jetson and says,

"What was an ipod touch? Mayhaps it a species of Encephalopod that i touched a lot!! Oh wait, those were ficticious characters from a scary movie that I NEVER SAW because my mom was so mean."

Darling, an ipod was a device that you could hook a headset up to and listen to music. It was about the size of a pack of gum. Unless of course gum is outlawed during your space age future.

PreSchool 2011 Da Bomb

2011-09-27T14:12:00.001-07:00

The Loo / Lou / Lu

2011-09-27T14:10:00.000-07:00

The bathroom has been quite the project. It is almost done. I LOVE it.

Number Five is Alive...............and working

2011-09-27T14:08:00.001-07:00

Five went to work with me yesterday. Here are a few pictures of her kind of taking over.

My new dress

2011-09-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

I bought a new dress the other night. Kristen picked it out and when I got home I thought,

"I would never have bought this with out a wee push from la Kristen. I should send her a pic to show how much I love it and appreciate her."

You dad took my picture and in true Nate form he said, "Ok, let's send them one of me in it and see if they notice."

I seriously laugh most of the time I am with your FATHER. He is so funny.

What #4 learned this summer and taught la dad

2011-09-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

Funny how I think I know all there is to know about your father and then I get smacked in the face with a big surprise. Turns out up until 3 weeks ago he didn't know how to float in water. You, Numero 4, decided to teach yourself how to float. Your dad looked at you, thought, "OK. I guess if she can do it, by golly so can I." Now we have 6 floaters in the fam. I am in LOVE with these pictures. You focus so hard to get the task done.

Bath House

2011-09-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

We've been completing projects left and right around here. A couple of weeks ago our big question of la dia was:

Should we face the outside toilet forward or off of the side. Tu' Padre demonstrated for me so that I could make an informed decision.

Mesassissippi

2011-09-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

Who knew that Mesa 2011 was actually Mississippi 1964; substitute Mexicans for blacks and we have a match. When you go back and read this you will all think,

"Oh, I remember 2011. Mom and dad were pulling their hair out wondering why people are so hateful / ignorant / unkind when we have come so far with education and humanity."

OR

"Oh, I remember 2011. Mom and dad used a lot of profanity over the crazies in the area."

So there is this politician that is one of the most hateful people I know of in a political position. (I did say that I know of. There is always the possibility that Ol' Russell could be topped ) So Russell Pearce boggles my mind. I could just say that he served with Sheriff Joe and -----ENOUGH SAID. I could also say he was fired from the DMW for some shenanigans. (I didn't think the DMW EVER let anyone go.) He wrote a bill called SB1070. This was co-written by FAIR. FAIR was labeled a "hate group" by Southern Poverty Law Center. FAIR also received funds from a neo-nazi group. He also tried to change the 14th amendment of the CONSTITUTION. He also emailed a group of supporters with text from an article by a White Supremacist group. Did I mention that the article denied the Holocaust. Did I also mention that he baptized a neo-nazi into his Church? Your father was dining at Cindy's cafe a couple of months ago and overheard a convo between Mr. Pearce and 2 other people.

R. Pearce, "You are a warrior. I like warriors. I too am a warrior."

Not kidding. Next time we are out to lunch I am going to speak like an 8 yr old boy. Your dad came home and said, "I was sitting next to this douche today. I think he is in politics." I said, "Google Russell Pearce's photo." Dad, "Oh my gosh, that is him."

The recall election is a month away and I am noticing posters EVERYWHERE promoting this man. I can't figure out if it is inner racism that is motivating people to support him OR ignorance. Either way it makes me angry and sad. I thought we had come further than this. It appalls me to know that others don't understand what a privilege it is to live here. NO ONE GETS TO CHOOSE WHAT COUNTRY THEY ARE BORN INTO. Oh wait, what if people really think that they did choose. "Hey Heavenly Father, I would like to be born into the richest country on earth. Can you also make me white. Pretty please!!"

Unfortunately, Russell P was shot in the chest back in the day by an illegal immigrant. I understand that must have been traumatic. I also understand that something needs to change.

Dr. Jeklina and Miss. Hyda

2011-09-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

This morning you got up, helped unload the dishwasher, gave your dad a couple of hugs, and were in the best of spirits. That is, until you asked if you could have a piece of candy and my reply of "no" did not satisfy you. Then you went to

1. Not getting in the van
2. Finally getting in the van and crying all the way to school
3. Refusing to get out of the van to go to school
4. Letting me know it was my fault because I said "No" to the candy
5. Making it clear that you probably would never do what I asked again
6. Sitting in the entryway of our house for 25 minutes
7. Deciding to go back to school. (This may have a little something to do with the fact that I said I would carry you into your classroom and duct tape you to your seat. That is what I call GOOD PARENTEN - said with a twang)
8. Letting the front desk lady know the reason you were late was because,
"I refused to come to school."
9. Asking if I could purchase a special water bottle for you from the office. (Hahhahahahahahahahahah)
10. Giving me a kiss goodbye saying,
"I love you. Have a great day at school Ava. Bye."

Phone call Number 3 style

2011-09-08T17:13:00.000-07:00

Now I don't consider myself a tech-tard, but my goodness darling what futuristic ideas are flowing through our house right now makes me feel like Jane (Jetson that is). Aside from the tech play-date I'm super impressed with your new friend. Here is how I was introduced to little Lola.

MY CELL PHONE RINGING -

Ring Ring

Mama: "Hello"

Little Voice: "I need to talk to Ellie."

Mama: "Ellie is making her bed right now. Can I have her call you back?"

Little Voice: "Well just go ahead and take the phone to her."

Mama: "Hahahaha. Darling I can have her call you when she is done with her chores."

Little Voice: "She called me twice and I was at my grandmas and we are going to video chat and read a book together so I need to talk to her now. (Big breath after really long sentence) My name is Lola."

Mama: (Lola is OBVIOUSLY a Badass) "Well Lola I will have her call you in a bit."

Lola: "How long is that going to take?"

Mama: "Hahahahahahaha. Lola it all depends on how fast and seriously Ellie takes her chores. You really never know."

Lola: "I need you to find her and tell her to take it seriously and get them done fast."

Mama: "Sounds good." Click

LOLA IS AWESOME!!!!

Bed TIME

2011-09-08T09:37:00.000-07:00

You are 4. You LOVE to have me scratch your back EVERY NIGHT!!!!! Your Dog LOVES to spoon you.

Are we going to look back on this picture like I do on pics from the 70's and be all:

"Girrrl, check out those ugly pajamas. Mother what was up with your weird boob, is it super odd in shape. Why does my childhood dog look like she was possessed by an evil spirit? That was a crazy time. What was your odd fascination with putting my hair in buns. "

Adorable Faces

2011-09-08T09:30:00.001-07:00

1st day of Pre-school 2011

2011-09-08T09:28:00.000-07:00

These are after school pictures. Lisa L dropped you off and you we all about your fruitloop necklace and visor. Your hair was a bit disjointed after your hard day. You spoke non-stop from 11:30am - bedtime. Your biggest topic

Maximus. Yes, there was a kid in your preschool named Maximus. Your question to me? "Why does Maximus have the same hair? The kind of hair that sticks straight up?"

Plate-Time

2011-09-08T09:24:00.000-07:00

2 Hours playing with plastic cups and plates. SERIOUSLY!! This was the cheapest best time you have had in awhile. Halfway through the plate-time you, Miss A, grabbed our stuffed owl and started speaking OWL. Yes, we have a stuffed owl, YES you speak Owl. It turns out when we ask you to translate the Owl was speaking Spanish.

A: "Whoo Whoooooo Who Who."

Your Mother: "Darling, what is that in Owl?"

A: "Well.........in Owl Spanish it was I LOVE YOU WITH ALL OF MY HEART."

(This is what I say to you all day. We've shortened it to just a fist pump over the heart. Gangsta Loven.)

Pool Games

2011-09-08T09:17:00.000-07:00

There is this game you and your dad play in the pool. He acts like he is out of energy and you swim over to him and give him a POWER KISS. It is awesome. Pool time has been so fabulous!

A

2011-09-06T08:04:00.001-07:00

A: "Mom, I am a dark seer. I can see in the dark and no one else in the family can. I can see in the dark just like the flying squirrel."

You do a little twirl

A: "You should put me in ballet for I am a GREAT balleter."

Word to the Liars

2011-08-31T15:37:00.000-07:00

As you and I are sitting in the drive-thru at Dutch Brothers today;

Ava Darling: "Mom, are moms and dads liars?"

Me: "No."

Ava Darling: "Just stealers then. Obviously they live alone and don't have mathers (aka mothers). Ellie keeps saying that I am lying, but I would never do that."

I'm just sayin

2011-08-31T09:03:00.001-07:00

Hair-Vention

2011-08-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

This was taken immediately after waking up. It looks as if he is a heavy metal singer and his family just sat him down for an intervention. By the looks of it he is NOT very happy about this intervention.

Me, "Darling, I love you. The thing is I will not enable your habit anymore..........................................................If you don't start using hair product, I'm afraid, well, you might have to go away for awhile. Your hair has gone beyond Barry Gibb and is now boarding on Phil Spector. "

Date Day

2011-08-28T16:55:00.000-07:00

Dad and I planned a date day this past week. Our date days consist of a thriftish store and a great restaurant. We headed over to Zinnias to grab a chandelier that we had spotted on our last visit and then stopped in at St. Francis. Ava darling, you ate 1/2 your kids pizza, a bowl of quinoa, and this lovely dessert pictured. I thought you might be sick on the ride home, but you kept it down and ate again an hour later.

While at Zinnias we spotted 2 berets. One an brown wool one with 2 pins and the other a navy velvet one. When we arrived back home I asked if I could take your picture in them. What followed was a cover shoot. You, Ava Esther Wenzel Babbitt absolutely LOVE to pose for pictures. At one point there was muscle flexing. Here are a few pics from the session:

1st day of school 2011

2011-08-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

8th Grader and some random pirate with really LARGE hair.

3rd grader standing next to my best friend Dyson.

6th grader and Barry Gibb and Five.

Yesterday whilst sitting in the pool

2011-08-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

A: "Mom, dad says there is a secret door in the pool where dolphins come out at night to swim."

Me: "Really? "

A: "I would like to ride one."

Me: "I'm thinking they come out at night because they don't wish to be ridden."

A: "I had a dream that there were cows that walked around on their back legs and they spoke."

Me: "What did they say?"

A: "They had machine guns and they wanted to overrun the human race."

Me: " WHAT?"

A: "Did you know that you can be an AirBender when you are a grandma?"

Ellie

2011-08-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite pictures EVER!! It makes me laugh almost as much as Anderson Cooper getting a fit of giggles. Holy Heck Anderson I LOVE that you took it so well. You even posted someone tweeting,
"Anderson Cooper's giggles are like watching unicorns fart rainbows."

How I love to laugh my dears. Here is another one that made me wet me pants a bit.

You, numero tres had Dylan over to play on Saturday. Come Sat night Kristen and Matt came by to swim whilst their 3 children were playing joyfully in the toy room. We were discussing Pioneer Woman's iced coffee tip when Dylan came out crying and saying she wasn't feeling well. They all went home.

Come Monday you and Dylan were on the playground when she said to you,

"I was tired of hanging out with you and that is why I said I was sick and went home."

Ellie, "Mom, I think that was so mean."

Super Mom, "Really? It totally sounds like something you would say to her. It may not have been the nicest, but it was honest and really you."

You sat there for a full 15 seconds and then said,

Ellie, "You may be right. I think it was honest. I probably would say that to her also..........OK."

I love this about you young thinker. You actually considered what I was saying to you, thought about it for a second, and then changed your way of thinking to a new idea. You are superb!!!!! I laugh at bit, on the inside of course, while I watch you process ideas. I dig you darling!

2011-08-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

Teeny Tiny pictures. Ya' all went out to lunch with Grandma and Grandpa before shool started. Since tu padre is sporting the largest hairdo known to man, I quote Megamind on a reg basis.

Oh my, what a surprise, you and your chickens. Who knew that pollo would bring you and #3 so close. You two bond all day long over the Mias and Bubs. You have shown muy dedication to them E. I'm so impressed with your attention to their needs.

The Captain had some of "The Cancer" this summer. He has kept his mane long and his beard all shaggy to thwart the summer rays. Every morning he wakes up with hair taller than his head. It has become a bit of a contest to see if it can stand up much more without product. It is proven that it can, especially when he considers swimming "showering". Did I mention that he didn't wash his hair for 4 days because he thought "Shwiming" would take care of personal hygiene.

This picture is to serve as a reminder to all of you young ewoks that "The Cancer" runs in la familia. This is tu padre at Dr. Glicks office for his 2 biopsies. (That reminds me of the Aunt in Big Fat Greek Wedding. Remember bibiobsy. Hahahahaha that Aunt and her hairy tumor twin.) Look at the love in his eyes for me whilst I take this picture. He said,
"Mi Amore. My love for you shines so bright I can't see. Tis why my ojos aren't working so well these days. I know you so well. You enjoy that poem by the Shel Silverstein that is about a boy not wearing the pants. You also enjoy cleaning up my messes and making me tasty treats. You are my truest love ever. Stay Cool."

1st day of school dialogue

2011-08-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

Paige, "Moooom. You and my teacher are so much a like. She loves shopping and pedicures and said she is not our maid so don't leave our stuff on the ground. Isn't that funny, you've said that before."

Dear Future Paige,

Yes honey you were in advanced classes. Yes dear you really said shit like this. I know, I'm in shock also.

Love,
Mom

Carter you just came home and said something so mature:

"Mr. Russel my Math teacher says that if we don't turn our homework in when it is due we can't turn it in late for any credit. This does seem reasonable."

San Diego Summer 2011

2011-08-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

Auntie Kimmy forwarded me some pictures - Yeah!!! The problem is they are TINY and I am a Jetsons-tard I can't figure out how to make them larger. Deal with it mighty ones. Someday when the old yous are reading this fantastic "scrapbook" you will be all

"Our Mom was Super Terrific. She also had a way with The Google. Even though she and her computer-box didn't always see eye to eye; we appreciate her efforts of keeping a journal for us."

Mama Mia y Mia

2011-08-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

Dad and I were out to eat the other night with some of our lovely friends "The Dovers". As our fabulous evening progressed we got onto the topic of chickens. It turns out that a myriad of 12/13 yr old ladies are into "the chickens". Brascia, their daughter, needed to find a new home for 3 of her chickens. Miss. B has horses that take up her time; and since you Miss. P wanted some Pollo I offered our place.

You, Paige and your dear lady Alyssa had the whole thing mapped out. It involved a binder of info you wrote down off of the internet, a chicken book checked out from la library, a commitment from 4 families to purchase la eggs, and now a wikichick brain. It is very interesting to me how much pollo information is stored in your heed. You started quoting stats on some chicken named a "Sussex" and asked your father if he needed you to spell it for him. Hahahahahaha.

You and A figured out how much the feed would cost every month and how much you would charge for a 1/2 dozen "organic cage free" eggs. $1.50

Your dad is required to do the most work in this project. He and Carter started taking apart the pirate fort in the back. (You can also witness him training Otto in the above pic) It is going to be remodeled into a hen house. Every piece of wood that is removed 5 devil tails sprang out. Holy Hell - LITERALLY. He killed 20 scorpions with la help from hermano. Alyssa's father offered to assist, but I am afraid to invite anyone into Satan's den. Remember that Aracnophobia movie that was made years ago? How scary would it really be if it were done with scorpinos? That is some scary beepidy beep beep. People could actually die and not just get a bug bite. Did I also mention that Uncle Mike killed a RattleSnake at our house whilst we were away. AHHHHHHH What is happening. I'm sure it is because we aren't receiving any blessings right now. Hahahahahaha I can't help it . It is so easy to go there.

When Brascia and her motha, Suzie, dropped off the chickens we made a day of it and had the Haymores over to swim also. Check out Ella. Love her. The chickens laid eggs the 1st day - Yippee. All of you ladies in the house have been carrying them around and talking in baby voices to them. Oh I almost forgot the best part of this whole damn story. THEIR NAMES.

Mia and Mia. There is also a baby chick named Bubbles. Nope, not even close to kidding.

"Hi, this is my chicken Mia and my other chicken Mia."

Am I so freaking old that a NewHart joke is still funny? Ahahahahahahah Yes I am. Uncle Danny has 2 close friends and they are both named Darren. Ahahahahahahahah

After you fed your chickens scrambled eggs (What What. Yes, old Pagie that will be reading this. You fed your chickens eggs. Let that sit for a wee bit. Eggs) we skirted off to "Meet the Teacher" at Ishikawa. We ran into Tatum on the sidewalk and stopped for a quick pic. 3rd grade and 6th grade. AWESOME!

San Diego Summer 2011

2011-08-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

I was none too good at taking pictures this vacation. I am emailing Auntie Kimmy to get some pictures that show more than a glance at us. Here are a couple of action shots I managed to get my lazy butt to take. Enjoy.

Daniel-Son A LA Hospital

2011-08-09T20:01:00.001-07:00

Pool

2011-08-09T20:00:00.001-07:00

About Last Night

2011-07-27T07:26:00.000-07:00

Last night we were sitting with Danny and Sam and Jyl were there. Typically we look like the above picture. (check out my finger on my forehead. I'm a thinker people. I was prob playing scrabble. It looks very much like I was creating some elixir for Gargamel to use against Papa Smurf whilst they are out collecting berries.) Last evening was the exception. We were all chatting and laughing when your Oh so Special Uncle says,

D "I say, I say it is a good thing the bathroom is right there. (pointing 2 feet away) Once you reach 40 you really can't trust a fart."

Huh Huh. I look to your dad for clarification. Yep. Tis what he said. Of course your Captain says,

Captain: "I wonder which nurse had to learn that lesson."

Oh slap me with something soft; your fathery Captain is so freaking funny. Uncle Danny is laughing in his Chubaca / Dr. Evil sort of way. He sort of looks down in one of his laughing fits and realizes his underwears are hanging out of his evening gown.

D: "I say, I say should I cover up my junk."

Holy Hell Daniel. Junk? If there were an area of the Special Olympics that involved "inappropriate things one can say." I would sign you up asap.

On a side note: #4 you are beyond into enunciating. Whenever you wish to say something meaningful you stop - use LARGE hand gestures - and ENUNCIATE the crap out of whatever you are saying. ie: "MOMM ELLIE SAID NOOO YOU CAN'T USE MY CUMERA." (Dear Grown-up Ava, Cumera is also known as a camera. It took me 2 LONG minutes to figure that out.)

I found this on my bed last night

2011-07-26T15:42:00.001-07:00

To Mom: (There are hearts covering the upper portion of the paper. There is also a GIGANTIC picture of a mouth with great teeth)

Dear Mom,

My tooth shall be under my pillow again. I do desprately hope for an award for letting you pull it out (one of your favorite hobbies besides popping zits). I hope this friendly letter is satisfactory enough for you. (Next two lines are filled with hearts)

Your dearly beloved,
Paige Wenzel Babbitt

P.S I brushed and flossed my teeth

I love you SMILE!!

Hey Joe

2011-07-26T14:49:00.000-07:00

I was sitting with Danny this morning watching episodes of Gene Simmons reality TV show. Totally awesome time! Danny kept grabbing my hand and saying,

D: "Jen, Thanks for being here."

It was super sweet and also freaking hilarious because every 2 minutes a weird ass noise would come from the other side of the curtain. Danny has a roommate. His roommate makes HILLLARIOUSSS noises all day long. One sounded like,

"OOHHHAAAAHHHHH"

Every time he makes these noises Danny shouts, "You get it all out Joe?" or "You ok Joe?"

About 30 minutes into our riveting programing Old Man Joe decided to spank his monkey. No, I am not kidding. I hear an eeerreerreerr noise. I think "Joe" might be trying to cut up his meat on his plate. I peek around the curtain. No, he is grabbing his meat and being inappropriate. AHHHHH. Danny shouts:

D: "You get it all out Joe?"

Is this seriously happening?

Another 30 minutes later. Danny grabs his stomach and says (laughing)

D: "I am so full."

Me (The only mature grown-up in the freaking room) "Really. You haven't eaten in 6 days."

D: "Hehehee I know. I think this liquid is super filling. Oh Joe, you think so too?"

Lemonade just like your pool guy made

2011-07-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

Uncle Danny drank some pool acid a couple of days ago. He thought it was lemonade. Why - it was yellow. Did he just take one sip? No. He took 2 LARGE gulps.

He has now been in the hospital for 2 days and it looks like he will be there another week. They just kicked dad and I out so they could put in a central line. I remember when Auntie Kimmy had a central line. It makes me a little sick to the stomach.

It has been quite the craziness around here since the mishap. Ellie, you rode part way to the hospital with dad and Danny and said,

Ellie, "Oh Danny I am so sad for you. I love you and hope you are ok."

It was super sweet and Uncle Danny cried when you said it. I am so super grateful you were with him on that car ride!!

Today and last night you, Miss A, keep saying the following with such exasperation:

A: "WHY DID HE THINK IT WAS LEMONADE? I don't understand!!!!!!"

Mom: "He is special sweetie."

A: "He was special before when he was smart MOMMMM."

Mom: "He hurt his brain in the car accident and now his brain doesn't always work the way it needs to."

A: "I DONT GET IT!!!!! Why did a car hit him. Is he a dad?"

Mom: "No, he is not a dad. Metal hit his head in the accident and he had some bruises on his brain."

A: "Ohhhhhh mom. You just don't get it."

Needless to say it has been quite interesting explaining things to Danny and you, Miss A. I'm a little wee bit tired!

1st day

2011-07-18T17:56:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day in la pool. YAAAAAHHHHEEEEHAWWWW. I'm taking massive amounts of pictures.

When I asked you guys to take a dump in the back acre in order not to mess up my house, you looked at me with loco eyes. Is this a weird request? I think not. The house was SUPER clean and you my dears-------------------were not. So, it was a bit interesting when you, #1, took me up on my request just as your Uncle and some random decided to make themselves at home and head on back to where we were. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

What do you mean it is trashy to pee / poo in the yard? You live in a freaking forest. Stop stressing. Animals do it ALLLLLL the time.

Remember Gorillas in the Mist

2011-07-15T13:43:00.000-07:00

Remember Sigourney Weaver in Gorillas in the Mist. I totally channeled her last night whilst de-hairing Uncle Danny's back. I was reading a funny lady's blog the other day and was beyond excited to read about a hair removal product that has been tried on delicate parts. www.thebeardediris.com

I ordered FIVE tubes from the company that makes it. Sitting around the hole in the ground that is going to be our pool I shared my find with your dad and your Uncle Danny.

Danny squealed in stuttering delight. It literally sounded like Chewbaca may have been part pig and was making a noise that was a result of Hans Solo saying,

"Chewy, I'm not really in love with Leah. I've secretly been in love with you for years. "

When I removed Uncle Danny's shirt it was 2 INCH LONG HAIR. Not kidding. The pictures don't do it justice. I slathered on the hair removal product that is made for a black man's head. We sat around and giggled about gorilla back for 10 minutes and then made our way to the side of the house.

Your dad grabbed water bottle caps for us to spin around the 2 INCH hair. Seriously, the pictures do not do it justice. The HAIR WAS IN GLOBS. GLOBS little people. Dios Mio. HOW the crap is he so bald on his head and has a back and chest like teenwolf ( Numero 2 style). Oh, Jason Bateman I am still crushing on you.

GLOBS of Chewbaca hair.

Spraying down the beast.

He is sooooooo thrilled about the hair loss. I can't get over this smile.

I told him to start posing and this is what I get. There is a pic where he is flexing his muscles, but this one is so bizarre that I had to post it. I'm assuming it is an ode to Karate Kid. Since Danny still can't move past 1987 it is obviously something to do with Karate Kid, Star Wars, Cops, or Back to the Future. His obsession with Cops is crazy.

Pool Update

2011-07-15T13:14:00.003-07:00

Man-Boy is working out

2011-07-12T14:34:00.000-07:00

This is after your first workout sessio'n. I will keep updating pictures every week. I LOVE how your arms can't even fit next to your sides - you are so buff it is hard to squeeze them down. It is also possible that you were so sore it was hard to move. Dios Mio.

So, yesterday Hell froze over. Enough to skate on. I threw on my blades and took a spin on la ice. It was so much fun I went around a second time. How, you ask, did it freeze? Let me explain:

1. I enrolled you and your sister (#2) in a class on how to make animated movies.
2. Remember how you channel Eeyore and everything is kind of a downer lately?
3. You were upset that I put you in the class. You complained for 2 hours straight prior to setting your precious feet in said class.
4. You stated, "Next summer I'm enrolling myself in fun classes. You aren't allowed to put me in any other classes." To which I said, "Oh young man you are in charge of your attitude." To which you said, "Pshhhh" I'm pretty sure that is code for something much more fowl.

So imagine my fake surprise when I pick you up and #2 rushes out the door to say,

"Carter had such a fun time and doesn't want you to know."

Me, "Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah (deep breath) Hahahahahahahahahahahahah (small fart) AAAAHHHahahahahahahaha"

SUPER 8

2011-07-12T11:58:00.001-07:00

I really LOVED this movie. It reminded me so much of ET and Goonies all rolled into one. I hope Steven S decides to make some more of this type of movie. I HEART it so very much.

2011-07-12T11:53:00.001-07:00

I got a new couch for the front room!!!!

Christopher Walken y Suspenders

2011-07-09T11:54:00.000-07:00

I'm really unsure of a better combination. He is one our FAVORITE actors of all freaking time; and Carter, you wished to bring sexy back with la ligas. (Check out that Spanish JLo.) I'm also enjoying a pair of legs sticking out of your side. I'm suspecting Elle was sitting in the chair behind you and decided not to move.

Pizzaria Bianco

2011-07-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

We went there. It was only a 4 hour wait. Chowed at the Rose and Crown whilst we waited. It was TOALLY worth the wait. I guess the business side of me doesn't understand why they don't move into a bigger building and share the love a bit more.

The First Steps of Building a Pool

2011-07-09T11:44:00.000-07:00

The digging started in the morning and was done by the end of that 1st day.

I didn't have any fab pictures of the rebar so imagine a web of metal encompassing this interior pit.

Shotcrete day. I enjoyed the tent. It was kind of them to think of not making too crazy of a mess. Mucho gracias shotcreters!

After spraying the concrete in they spread it down for the next 6 hours.

Movie Night A la Gnomeo y Juliet AKA Boring y Boring

2011-07-08T21:02:00.000-07:00

Ever since we made the back room your den of comfort all of you have been enjoying the big screen en style. Last night I was wandering the hallway when I stumbled upon a trio of lovelies in laundry basket beds. Ellie, you totally fashioned some muy comfortable digs for tu hermanas to view Gnomeo y Juliet.

(Just a side note. It is a boring / dull / painful movie for adults to watch. Usually I enjoy some Despicable me or MegaMind. This movie was a la DULL)

Regardless, you all fancy yourself a little teenage gnome lovin.

Your "too cool for school" hermano sneakily joined you to watch a la horrible movie. I went to bed; but it looked as if you all had a blast hanging out and watching the "movie".