The Secret Life of Bees

Brittany and I went to see The Secret Life of Bees this weekend. I was expecting it to be good, but really, is a movie ever as good as the book? Rarely. This is an exception! I loved the book and the movie does not disappoint. I can't remember anything in the book that would have made the movie any better. The only disappointment was the man in front of us trying to sit in a chair that wasn't there, taking three of us five minutes to get him off the floor. Plus the lady across the isle chewing her popcorn so loudly that she made a pig seem passive, then moving onto her endless supply of ice, which she annoyingly consumed only after swirling the coke around in it first.
On a scale of 1-10: Movie 10--Ambiance 3

Which One?

Okay, I'll brag a bit...I have a beautiful daughter both inside and out! I'm re-doing the frames in the office and came across this picture of Brittany. I think it's my new favorite. But I still like the one with the hat. What do you think?

Lost Wisdom

Raul had all four of his wisdom teeth pulled on Thursday. He is really being a trooper! For some reason, many years ago, some dentist, who I believe got his license in a Cracker Jack box, put crowns on three of Raul's wisdom teeth. Well, I guess he got a cavity under one of them and was told it wasn't good to pull just one on a side, so that brought us to two. Then as long as he was going to go under, he might as well just do them all. So that brings us to four, thank heavens that's all there are or who knows how many he would have had pulled! Just what we needed... lots of $$$ spent on something you can't even see or have fun with. He is doing great, and is catching up on all his westerns that we make fun of him for watching. No one can make fun of a swollen hurt guy right?
Since he likes the western days so much, maybe I should remind him of how things used to be...

It Really is a Small World

On Saturday we went to Disneyland with my college roommate Jamie and her entire family. 30 years ago we were running to 7-11 at 2:00am in the snow, and today we are at Disneyland together with our grand kids. It was so much fun and no matter how long we are apart it seems like just yesterday...Brittany and Devin came with me and all her kids were there. Jamie and Kevin's kids: Erica, her husband Kirk, their kids, McKenna, Tanner, Avery and baby Emersen. Lindsie, her husband Shawn and baby Owen. Landon, their son, and Camber with her boyfriend Joey. It is so fun to see the kids all enjoying each other. When Brittany was at ASU she went over every Sunday for dinner and established a closeness in her own right. She is, and will always be "their other sister". Tanner and Devin are only a month apart and act like they are long lost friends. They enjoy each other and I only wish they lived closer. Note: Tanner is batting 500 when it comes to getting lost at Disneyland...he has been a total of four times and has gotten lost twice! It restores faith in humanity though as everyone around was concerned and helped find him. Last time he didn't know he was lost, but this time he knew--it was so crowded I'm sure it just looked like a sea of legs and butts to the little guy! Thank heavens most people will step up when needed. Can't believe these kids, they are so great, they went on Tower of Terror, the Matterhorn, Space Mountain and Splash Mountain, along with anything else they were tall enough for. I have always wanted to walk around inside one of the rides, and well...I got my wish...there was a "log jam" on Splash Mountain and we were stuck inside for a LONG time...as they evacuated us we had to walk out of the ride. It was kind of fun to see behind the scenes. Although I would have liked it better had it not been 9:00 in the evening with tired kids. They were great though! Mind you, this was after we rode the Pirates of the Caribbean where Lindsie and I became DRENCHED when a tidal wave came over the side of our boat. Seriously our first clue should have been the 3-inches of water on the floor in our section when we stepped in. That, or the fact that while the rest of the boats were 7 or 8-inches above the water, ours was, at best, four. Add to that the boat tipping to the side (and it wasn't because of anyone's fat bootie) only because this vehicle should have been retired many voyages back! The whole park was decorated for Halloween and the Haunted Mansion was transformed into The Nightmare Before Christmas. It was wonderful, so much work involved. Wish the day could have lasted longer.

Juliett Turned 6

As you can see Juliett came into this world making noise and hasn't changed much! Juliett turned six on the 26 of September. Jeannine and William had a party for her at their house on Sunday. If you know Juliett, you know she loves being the center of attention, and her birthday is the perfect excuse! She had another princess party, but my guess is she is favoring Hannah Montana now. Next year it will be something different. The kids enjoyed jumping in the princess bouncy thing, and the adults enjoyed Williams great Bar-B-Que along with all the great food that everyone brought. Juliett wanted a pinata and "Ama Dean" taught Devin that his shirt made a much better stash for gathering candy than the paper bag they provided. He cleaned up, but being the sweet kid he is he shared with the other kids.
Last week Juliett got glasses and seems to enjoy wearing them. We'll see how long this lasts! Or at least how long before they are lost or broken. I remember those days...
Juliett always has a big hug and kiss for you, and is one of the most loving kids I know. She is always telling us she loves us, (even when she is in trouble-wonder if that is a ploy???). This child has one of the most vivid imaginations I have ever come across, who knows maybe someday she will be a famous screenwriter!
Oh, the other little blondie is Maddie Mae, who is Juliett's cousin on the other side. They could be sisters they look so much alike.

One Last Time

Well, sadly summer is officially over. We made our last trip to the river Thursday through Monday. It was a really fun time and I was especially happy as three of my four kids were there! Dean went with us and Brittany drove up from San Diego. Rozlyn, Devin, her boyfriend Jonathan, and his son Jaiden met us on Friday, along with Raul's brother Richard and his wife Sandy. They are all such goofballs and it is fun seeing them interact with each other. At times you aren't sure just who the five year olds are! In fact Brittany got caught doing something and she immediately said, "The five year olds did it first!" They each bring a different part to the mix.
Raul misses the jet skis as he gets stuck driving the boat most of the time. I really enjoy the boat as it gives us the chance to all be together and we aren't stranded at a beach somewhere. Richard and Sandy brought their skis, so we had the best of both worlds. We are down to one ski now, but Raul has his eyes on an Ultra 150...I've seen that look somewhere before...
The boys each went on the tube by themselves and then together. I have to say they did a good job, but Juliett can still kick their bootie! They didn't want "Papo" to go faster, were holding on for dear life, and wouldn't even think about going outside of the wake. Whereas Juliett kept asking to go faster holding on with only one hand while resting her head on the other, as if to say "get with it, this is boring" if we were not whipping her out of the wake! Next year the kneeboard is coming out, and I'm pushing for the skis too.
I would love to get a houseboat next summer or a week or so if anyone has any connections...or suggestions. Don't even care what lake. We rented one with my family many years ago and it was sooo much fun despite all the strange things we had happen...an outdrive broke stranding us in some cove in the middle of Lake Powell (pre cell phones), a huge storm with waves crashing over the top of the boat, (yes, I do mean the TOP), losing all our shoes and running into quicksand. No one said our family did things half way! It was a trip like no other and I have a nephew who still will not get within 100 yards of any houseboat, even if it's dry docked (sorry Ryan). If you mention the word "houseboat" in our family it is a sure way to get a laugh. Memories...

Through the Years

Time has a way of passing without us realizing it. In some ways people have been a part of your life forever and in others it seems like just yesterday we were young and carefree. I have been trying to get my pictures in order and ran across these...Jamie and I were roommates in college and developed a friendship that will last throughout the eternities. I know Kevin & Jamie love my kids just as I love theirs. While Brittany was in college she went to their home every Sunday for family dinner. It is one of the things she misses most from her college days. Brittany met a few friends in college that I am sure she will stay close like we have. This is something I truly cherish.

They Failed Miserably

The most devastating and unprecedented terrorist attack in history happened against the United States of America, the world's mightiest superpower, committed by 19 radical Arab Muslims who hijacked four commercial airliners, crashing them into the WTC, the Pentagon, and an empty field in Pennsylvania.

They Failed Miserably

Though they plot evil against you
and devise wicked schemes,
they cannot succeed.
(Palms 21:11)
And the terrorists did not succeed.
They failed miserably.
Instead of dividing America,
they unified America.
Instead of destroying our Spirit,
they strengthened our Spirit.
Instead of moving us away from God,
they moved us closer to God;
and strengthened our faith.
The evil cowards who attacked us failed miserably…
in every way.
And while our 911 angels are in Heaven,
the satanic terrorists will burn in hell for eternity.
They failed miserably.

By Kevin Caruso


My cousin, Resa, and her dog, Bella, were part of the team that went to help at the WTC. They were instrumental in finding about 20 victims. Please check out the story below. What it doesn't tell you is Bella was medically cleared for her full return to 'disaster response' duty just the day before, September 10, 2001. What a difference a day makes.
http://simivalleyacorn.com/news/2006/1117/neighbors/027/

First Day of Kindergarten

Well we now officially have both grand kids in school! Devin started Kindergarten at Arnold Elementary on Thursday 4 September. Rozlyn, Raul and I went to see him off on his first day and I am proud to report I didn't shed a tear!!! Of course Devin was fine, in fact he couldn't wait to say good-bye to us. His teacher has a wonderful outlook on life and seems to be very easy going (a huge benifit for a teacher!) A boy in his class even plays on his soccer team.
Devin spent the night with us Tuesday and was a bit worried about this whole "Principal" thing. Don't know where he got the idea of being afraid of her, probably some TV show. Anyway, after assuring him that the "Principal is our Friend" and as long as he did what was right, everything would be fine, he was okay. He also wanted to make sure I would still pick him up if he was sick. Although I was tempted to tell him no, he would have to stay and suffer all by himself, I chose to be nice and tell him of course I would. It's funny the things that go through their little heads.
Juliett is in First Grade at Torrance Elementary, which is where she went to Kindergarten. When I get pictures and more info I'll fill in.

















UPDATE:Add two kids moves to my list of moves since our wedding...Jeannine, William and Juliett just moved out of one of our apts and into a house in Lawndale. Rozlyn and Devin moved Labor Day weekend into another of our apts, so things are even more chaotic than usual.

Privacy Please

I have been contemplating going private for awhile now, and finally decided that it's time. My husband is extremely private and although he is fine with family and close friends I realize he is probably correct when he says that anyone can find out about you if it is just out there...so I've decided a little privacy is a good thing. So please everyone, even if you are a casual reader that is a friend of a friend, please leave your e-mail address, we'd love to continue sharing our lives with you. If you don't want to leave your e-mail here just e-mail me privately and I will add you from there.

?Fun At the River?

We went to the river last weekend and as always it was an adventure. We hadn't been to the river in over a year and were so happy the boat actually started! We should have known better...Dean wanted to get a wake boarding run in before everyone got there so we jumped on and off we went. Less than five minutes out, kerpunk, the boat stopped, with no intention of starting again. We drifted close to shore and he hopped out with a rope and towed us down the beach close to civilization. Thank heavens for cell phones! We called Jonathan (Rozlyn's boyfriend) who came to the rescue. The guys went back while Juliett and I waited with the boat. Well before they could get back we had met a Police Officer who was nice enough to undo the chain to the ramp that said "No Traffic Allowed". Not only did he take the whole thing down, but waited with us so we wouldn't get in trouble. Then we met a boat mechanic who looked at the engine and sure enough Raul's suspicion was correct...we hadn't put fuel preservative in and the fuel turned to gunk! He didn't have parts with him, can't believe he would go kayaking without a fuel pump, but assured us if we brought the boat in first thing in the morning he would have it up and running in no time. As we were dealing with this a pontoon boat came up and started hooking up to us. Finally I saw Raul was with him, and we were towed across to where we could get the boat out. I have found most people are really nice and helpful. Well the next morning, and $1000 later we were on our way. The kids tried wake boarding, knee boarding, but the tube was the real hit. All three little kids went on and had a blast. The next day after Roz and crew left Juliett was coaxed into going on by herself. Watch the video to see how she did! She is not even six yet. All she kept saying was "Faster Papo, Faster". It's so much fun watching your kids and grand kids enjoy themselves. Almost makes all those worries worth it!
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Sorry this is so shaky, but holding still on a boat while trying to keep her in view isn't easy.

Brittany knee boarding...Summer of 1988?, which would make her three-and-a-half, I need to check the year!

The Blue Line-Or is it Red?

Raul decided we needed to get an education in Public Transportation and "suggested" we take the Blue Line to historic Oliveira Street, in downtown L.A. It is the birthplace of the city and home to the first hacienda. Brittany was visiting for the weekend and was roped into joining us. Well the trip down was quite LONG to put it mildly, but it was interesting. When we first got on, there was no one else there so Devin got to do all the things you would never let your children do, but are perfectly fine with your grandchildren doing. He tried out every seat, climbed on them, hung from the poles, proceeded to play like he was shooting us (was this a western type shooting, or a modern day one, as on public transportation???). He couldn't understand why he wasn't allowed to continue when the train started to fill up. At least he was entertaining, as my ADD would have gotten the best of me if I didn't have his antics to occupy my interest! We had to transfer at one point, and if any of you know my ability, or lack thereof, to find my way to places you know this was not a fun thing. We finally figured out which line to get on and arrived at Central Station without a hitch. It is a beautiful old train station, with fabulous ceilings. I love the architecture and history of places like this. From there it is just a short walk to Oliveira Street. Across the street is what I believe is the first firehouse built in L.A., Old Plaza Firehouse. It is a old brick structure built in 1884, that has been turned into a museum showcasing firefighting equipment and interesting old photos of stations of the 19th century around the country. Devin loved seeing the places where the horses were kept and the engine they pulled, however I don't think he connected this with modern day firetrucks. Oliveira Street itself is a huge disappointment. I had heard it changed (of course what hasn't in 25 years?), and is now nothing but crowed overpriced stalls selling junk! However the walkways and buildings are cool. We had lunch (overpriced) then got back on the train to come home. Everyone was very nice, but I'm glad I had Raul with us, not something I would suggest doing alone.

Happy Birthday Rozlyn!

28 years ago our second daughter, Rozlyn, came into this world. I was lucky enough to have her come into my life 11 years ago, and it hasn't been the same since! For those of you who do not know her, she is our child who is always up to the minute on the latest fashion and especially SHOE styles! Rozlyn is the "to go to person" if you don't know what to wear. She is however our one who takes forever to make a decision, even on where to eat. She graduated from California Lutheran (in Thousand Oaks, CA) in four years, which, I'm sure you know is not easy to do. She worked several jobs while attending college, her favorite being Charolette Russe (what a surprise!). Rozlyn is a wonderful soccer player and was talented enough to play on several top club teams. She was fortunate enough to play in Europe, and received a scholarship to play in college, but chose to only play her Freshman year. Now she plays in a mixed league two nights a week, and can hold her own against most men. By "holding her own" don't be fooled to think this is limited to the soccer field, as she has been known to take guys (ie:Raul) to the floor with her punches to the stomach! Don't even think about wrestling with her unless you are training for the Olympics, as I have seen her give her dad a run for his money. She is still working at Honda and I think they have been very impressed with her skills. Her most important job however is being Devin's mom. If the way this child is turning out is any indication of how she is doing, she excels, as he is one of the best kids I have ever seen, (and that is not just me being prejudiced!). Of all the kids, she is the most like me when it comes to the emotional side of things (how important are genes really?). While wearing her heart on her sleeve she feels for others and isn't afraid to take a chance where people are concerned. Going to the Price is Right has been a dream of hers for as long as I can remember and Monday she has arranged for everyone to go (not real happy about leaving at 7 a.m. though). Rozlyn has been a wonderful addition to this world and I hope she realizes how much she is needed and loved. Happy Birthday RozyRu, we love you. (Fun Fact: Rozlyn turned 8 on 8-8-88).

Me in 2008

1. What time did you get up this morning? Woke up about 7:30, but finally drug myself out of bed about 8:30
2. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds, pearls, emeralds, are there any jewels that aren't wonderful?
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? The new Indiana Jones movie
4. What is your favorite TV show? Brothers & Sisters, Prison Break, 24 & the dancing shows (until Chelsie was eliminated last night! BOO)

5. What do you usually have for breakfast? If I remember I usually have eggs or oatmeal
6. What is your middle name? Lyn-All of the original five of us have middle names that start with "L"
7. What food do you dislike? Bell peppers and maple syrup are the worst! They make me really sick and puke, aren't you glad I shared? I also don't like lima beans
8. What is your favorite CD at moment? Kenny Chesney
9. What kind of car do you drive? A blue Toyota Sequoia
10. Favorite sandwich? Homemade turkey or roast beef with tons of mayonnaise, bacon, lettuce, tomato and avocado. I also love mashed avocado on toasted, buttered sourdough bread
11. What characteristic do you despise? Dishonesty, lack of integrity, lack of humility, not being compassionate (guess my list is longer than it should be, maybe I should look at myself and remember to be non-judgemental!)
12. Favorite item of clothing? My "sisters" mom's big, black cashmere sweater that I now have, it makes me feel cozy
13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? Ireland to see where my ansesters came from. Also Italy and Fiji
14. Favorite brand of clothing? Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan, Gap and Lucky
15. Where would you retire to? I am retired (I think!) and I love where I am
16. What was your most recent memorable birthday? My seventh, my parents bought a horse for me, and two others to "keep it company"
17. Favorite sport to watch? Stadium Jumping or anything to do with horses
18. Furthest place you've been? Costa Rica
19. Person you want to have fill this out too? Anyone who is willing, especially Jamie
20. When is your birthday? 16 May
21. Are you a morning person or a night person? Night
22. What is your shoe size? 7 1/2
23. Pets? Dog-Wicket, horse-Tootles, goat-Houdini and Dean's turtle-?
24. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us? My house and yard are almost done!
25. What did you want to be when you were little? A Veterinarian
26. How are you today? Tired, as usual, but in the mood to get things done
27. What is your favorite candy? DARK Chocolate
28. What is your favorite flower? Gardenia, Tuberose and any bulb flower
29. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? Today, Brittany is coming up from San Diego!
30. What is your full name? If you're reading this you know!
31. What are you listening to right now? My play list from this blog
32. What was the last thing you ate? Dark chocolate
33. Do you wish on stars? I like Maddie's answer-praying on knees works better
34. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Cobalt Blue
35. How is the weather right now? Pleasant, a bit warm
36. The first person you spoke to on the phone today? My mom
37. Favorite soft drink? Don't really drink soda anymore (used to be a Coke addict), but lemonade is now my "drink of choice"
38. Favorite restaurant? Kincaid's, Madres and let's not forget Tito's Taco's
39. Real hair color? Red, I don't color it-what you see is what it is
40. What was your favorite toy as a child? Barbies, stuffed animals and my horse
41. Summer or winter? Summer, but really Spring
42. Hugs or kisses? Both, depends on who and where
43. Chocolate or Vanilla? Vanilla, unless it's candy
44. Coffee or tea? Neither, caffeine makes me more nuts than I already am
45. Do you want your friends to fill this out too? Of course, family too!
46. When was the last time you cried? Last night, watching a movie (really when Chelsie got voted off SYTYCD?-J/K!)
47. What is under your bed? Slippers
48. What did you do last night? Caught up on shows I had saved after I watched SYTYCD?
49. What are you afraid of? Something happening to my loved ones, sad I know, because I need to have more faith. Also looking down over a ledge and unstable heights
50. Salty or sweet? Depends, they both have their place
51. How many keys on your key ring? On my main key ring seven I think, but I have two other key rings
52. How many years at your current job? Twenty-six years
53. Favorite day of the week? Saturday
54. How many towns have you lived in? Six, I think
55. Do you make friends easily? Usually, I am very lucky to have so many wonderful friends from many walks of life

Tall, Handsome Flag Pole Holders

I don't know if this story is as funny in writing as it was in person, but I haven't laughed so hard in ages! "Papo", (Raul), and I were talking to Juliett and I mentioned I needed to get a flagpole holder. Juliett, who if you have met even once you will know has something to say about anything you mention, proceeded to tell us that they had those at her mom's store (Sports Chalet). Raul questioned if she knew what a flagpole holder was, and told her it was a man who held the pole for the flag, I of course had to add that the holder I wanted needed to be tall, and handsome. Without breaking stride Juliett told us that, yes, they had those and went off talking about manikins and how you could take the clothes off of them if you wanted to buy them. Well that triggered my mouth (obviously not my brain) to tell her I not only wanted a tall, handsome pole older, but added naked to the list, (yea, I know probably not great to tell a five year old, but...? She is almost 6!) Well she continued on to tell us that if you walked into the store and went to the right that is where they sold the naked pole holders, and to the left were the one's with clothes. She got things mixed up a bit and sent Papo to the naked ones and me to the one's with clothes! Then somehow it evolved into vacuuming and I, being the inquisitive person I am, asked if they had tall, handsome, naked pole holders that also vacuumed? She said, "Of course they do!", and when asked how they would do both of those things, she stood up and pretended to hold a pole and push a vacuum while wiggling her hips! We both had tears in our eyes as did most of the people around us. Oh, did I forget to mention that this took place out on the patio of Baha Fresh? Where is your video camera when you need it? If I can get her to do it again I'll try and video it to post.

Happy Anniversary!

4 kids, 2 grandkids, 2 high school graduations, 2 college graduations, 1 retirement, 9 surgeries, 1 dog, 2 horses, 2 goats, 1 pig, 3 moves (with way tooo much stuff to pack), 11 times moving the kids, building of 1 house (that by the way took almost 3 years), ? of apartment buildings and tenants with TONS of paperwork, and 9 years of marriage = 30 years worth of blessings??? Can't believe it has been nine years since we got married. Then again it seems like forever! We have so much to be thankful for and need to remember just how lucky we are to live in a country where we have the freedom to choose.

Down the Back Stretch

We are finally getting our backyard done!!! The plants are going in and the Bar-B-Que is getting ordered. I think Raul got tired of my begging (although I'm sure he would describe it as griping, complaining and a few other choice terms). We have several fruit trees including one half plum and half nectarine, and another half peach and half flowering trumpet vine??? What will they think of next? Now we need barn doors and grass and then we will have nothing to do except sit back and relax!?! (Yeah right, does that really exist?) Oh, just decided today we are putting in a built-in fire pit. Our list keeps growing.

Devin spent a couple of days with us and he helped??? stain the concrete pots so we can plant flowers. We are also going to plant a vegetable garden on the other side of the barn. I am known for killing all my plants, so this should be an adventure. Of course if I paid attention to, and actually followed, the label directions telling me to plant in either sun or shade I might do a lot better. That and remembering to water!

OK...Can someone PLEASE explain this sign? I know I can be a bit slow at times, but I really can not figure this out for the life of me??? Help!!!

Thanks for the Memory

My niece, Shari, just did this on her blog and I thought it was a good way to remember the past.

What's your favotite memory of me?

Here are the directions:
1. Under the comment section below please leave a memory, or memories, that we shared. Anything you remember is fine.
2.Then re-post this on your blog and see what others remember about you. If you leave a memory of me, I'll leave one about you. If you don't have a blog I'll post it in response to your comment on my blog. It really is fun to see the things that stay in our minds. Try it, it only takes a minute!

Dressed Up With a Place to Go

I was so happy to finally get a picture of Dean and Brittany dressed up and together, I had to share it. They are great kids, inside and out if I do say so myself! But then again I'm their mom. The occasion was Mike got married on Sunday the 6th to Stephanie, and we couldn't be happier. She is wonderful. With the track record of his ex's we appreciate her more than she will ever know. She has never been married, is in the movie industry, but most importantly, is great to the kids, and to Raul and me. Don't blow this Mike!