Pura Vida

Posting

2011-08-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

I finally want to post items and my posts wont post or up load the pictures I want. Have I used up my acct? Hmmm. I may have to create a new blog? Or a new site.

Happy 100th Birthday Lucy!

2011-08-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

Lucille Désirée Ball (August 6, 1911 – April 26, 1989)

I love Lucy and she loves me.
We're as happy as two can be.
Sometimes we quarrel but then,
How we love making up again.

Lucy kisses like no one can.
She's my missus and I'm her man,
And life is heaven you see,
'Cause I love Lucy, Yes I love Lucy, and Lucy loves me!

I started to think of my favorite episode of I love Lucy. I will share my favorite episode at the end. For now I will share other episodes that made me laugh.

Actually what episode did not make me laugh. She was a true talent and although her character could not sing, she actually could sing.

There are many other episodes that I like, but my all time favorite is the Vitameatavegamin episode. So I'm closing with my favorite episode. Happy Birthday Lucy, you are truly missed.

Cherries

2011-08-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

I've been a bad girl, I have not posted for soooo long. But this month I will start to post a little more. Why? I thought I would take baby steps to post again.

Jenny Harris at All sorts inspired me. This month her theme is Cherries. So I thought of my inspirations and I came across cute cherry aprons and other items with cherries. This apron below came from Country Living.

Here are other Cherry Inspirations, Enjoy:)

Until more inspirations of Cherries this month...

Our Hiccup

2010-10-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

Have you seen How to Train Your Dragon?

If you haven't, you will enjoy this animated movie.

Hiccup is the son of a Viking King.

In his Klan, it is the "Man" honor of killing a dragon.

Hiccup, however, prefers not.

This is Hiccup in the middle.

Here you find Hiccup Triumphing.

Again, Hiccup is here Triumphing.

Oh wait, that's not Hiccup; That's our son!

I think I found his costume for this year.

Oh but alas! He said he's to old for trick or treating.

How is it that I feel that I'm still old enough

to still wear costumes and this Pre-Teen is to old?

I guess your as old as you think you are,

so that would make me 17 again with grandchildren:)

What are you dressing up as this year?

Who is Rosie?

2010-09-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

For all you dolls out there wondering who is Rosie,

Watch this swinging video and find out

I usually fix my hair up on wash day like Rosie. I'll post one later.

Until then watch this video as Lisa does a great job of illustrating her video:)

So did you know who Rosie is?
I love the pin-up / Rock-a-Billy look.
I would love you see if you try the look.
I will post my look as Rosie, soon,
as I fix my hair as such, on wash day.
Just post your look and leave a comment so I know where to peek:)

Labor Day 2010

2010-09-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

Today is Labor Day, I like Labor Day, an extra day of rest in honor of Labor. I sure needed the extra day. What did you do? BBQ, Shop, go camping or a mini vacation?

I spent the day with my little one and my niece, Olivia.

Ayla and I went to visit my brothers new restaurant at the

Pool Together in Mesa, Az.

We love the empanadas, gallo pinto, arroz con pollo de Costa Rica, and especially the variety of Latin America's sodas. My favorite, a Brazillian drink, Guarana.

As I was ready to leave, My brother and law, RJ, showed up with my nephew and niece.

Olivia ran straight to me and then noticed Ayla and wouldn't let go. It was so special.

Then Evan came and wouldn't let go of Ayla.

While Evan took off with Dad, Olivia, Ayla and I strolled around the market place.

Later we went to the book store and read books there.

Finished the day at McDonalds and called it a day.

It was a special day, spending time with my niece and my little girl.

PURA VIDA--Pure Life!!

Olivia is home!

2010-09-01T22:57:00.001-07:00

I have so, been bad on face book and especially my blog.
I just noticed I have not updated my blog with Olivia's progress!

I want to thank everyone for their prayers. Olivia was diagnosed that she was not going to recover and had brain damage. Needless to say my sister was very upset and my brother-in-law, I have to hand it to him he would not leave Olivia's side. I did not believe the doctors, I had faith and said we have to keep trying and having faith. We have prayers coming in from everywhere. Olivia was drawing but would not speak. 'How could she have brain damage' I thought to my self. I told RJ, my brother in law to get a second opinion. I explained that patients have rights to second opinions.

It had been days since she has eaten. She would not eat. I started to feed her and she would spit it out. I would tell her, Olivia, 'this is macaroni and cheese, you love it. It's just weird at first.' So I tried it, and said 'mmmm'. So then she slowly tried it and boy did she tear it down. I couldn't catch up to the feeding.I was sure it was because of the tubes down her throat. She was probable afraid to swallow and speak.

They got a second opinion and sure enough, suddenly there was no brain damage, Olivia said "I love you mama" to my sister and within 24 hours later, they sent her home and Olivia was Okay.

She is now more active than before the drowning. She is back swimming and doesn't remember the whole ordeal. I know it is the faith and prayers from our family, friends, and all of those who read about Olivia and prayed for our family. Thank you!

PURA VIDA--Pure Life!!

Thank you for the prayers

2010-07-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

I went on Wednesday to visit my niece. She had the ventilator removed. She was on oxygen and anti-biotics. Because of the mixed medications that was given to Olivia, she had been hallucinating so they gave her doses of morphine to off-set the hallucination's. Weird huh? Anyways, she had her eyes open when I came in. She half smiled and then later I guess the morphine was waring off because she was softly crying. Actually, she was crying for her brother Evan, he is 4 years old. We held up a picture of him and a tear rolled out of her eye.

So we put the picture closer and she kissed him. She would cry when we moved the picture away from her.
Yesterday, she was allowed to see her brother for the first time since the accident,

His first as well.

Well, lets just say a picture is worth a thousand words:)

Here, the oldest cousin Emma, bought nail polish to paint Olivia's hands and feet, she was tickled when she woke to find her toes painted:)

She is drinking juice for the first time today and slowly trying eggs. If she progresses and able to hold food down she will be able to go home on Monday, YEAH! Thank you for your prayers.

Update

2010-07-12T13:36:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all your prayers.

Alexis, is still waiting for results. She is at home and a happy camper. She was happy that they did not have to put in an IV this time. She hates needles.

Olivia, however, iron has gone down. So they had to do a blood transfusion. They could not give her iron because it would not process in her system as fast as a blood transfusion. Her lungs are swollen and her airways were blocking so they had to give her doses of steriods. They will need to keep the respirator longer than thought. I will keep you posted.

Please continue the prayers to my nieces. Thank you.

Requests for Prayers

2010-07-11T12:46:00.000-07:00

My two nieces are in the hospital.

Above left to right is Alexis, Carly, Kennito, Ayla.

In the back is my babe at the grill and my brother-in-law Kenneth with crutches, a norm for him.Here the little Prima's having fun at our last Christmas Reunion.

From left to Right Ayla, Carly, & Alexis. They are all a year apart.

My brother-in-law Kenneth & Selina his wife, youngest daughter Alexis; who just turned 7 in June, is in the hospital. She has had seizures for a while and they are running tests to find out what is wrong and the causes for her seizures. Please pray that the doctors are able to find the reason and that they will have a cure for Alexis diagnosis.

The Pagliasotti Family
Olivia my niece who just turned 2 in March, the youngest and only daughter of my sister Luisa and my brother in law RJ, near drowned yesterday late afternoon. She is in the hospital in NICU. My sister was sitting on the steps yesterday by the pool with her friend Diana and her sister Judy. Olivia was swimming next to Luisa when she removed her floaters and with out a splash sound she sunk to the bottom. My sister has the memory of finding her at the bottom of the pool. Judy immediately started CPR and saved her life. Please pray for my sister Luisa, as I would think would be the hardest memory to live with as a parent to see your daughter go through the trauma and vision of how they found her.
Olivia's 2nd Birthday about to eat her Cupcake.
Pray for Olivia as she is sedated with antibiotics to fight any infection in her lungs and that she does not have Permanent brain damage.
Please watch your little ones by the pool, bath, or even a bucket of water.
PLEASE PRAY for Alexis and her family and Olivia and her family. Thank you.

It's been along time

2010-07-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

So much has happened since the holidays! My computer has died, RIP, so I will be posting when I come across some unfortunate souls computer. I am now a grandma of THREE grandkids whose names all start with the letter L. We have two sons who graduated from high school, our 8th grader who graduated and entering High School, we moved out of town even though it's only a mile or two away..hee-hee-hee, what else? Birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, reunions, and more. I'll be posting photos soon enough. Until then, Pura Vida:)

Hear Yea! Hear Yea! Great Giveaway at Robins Lolidots

2009-12-12T20:44:00.000-08:00

Holiday Grand Prize Giveaway! Happy Holidays to you all!

Lolidots has teamed up with some amazing sponsors to make your holidays a little brighter! Come over to the blog because one very lucky reader will win ALL of the following...

$25 gift certificate to Dali Decals for a wall decal
A pair of soft soled baby or toddler shoes from Shooshoos
$12 gift certificate to JD Wolfe Pottery
Shirt from Intuitive Productions
Car seat cover from Dressy Dribbles
Children's belts from C. Belly Belts
Chip/dip plate from Pottery and Pillows
A Pillow Pet
Animal Antics Scholastic Treasury DVD set
Night Before Christmas Scholastic DVD set
Svan Scooter from Scandinavian

Good luck to all and hurry, you have until December 17th drawing on the 18th.

Fun Free Family Weekend

2009-12-09T06:14:00.000-08:00

If you live in the Phoenix Valley,

Here's a great chance to go to the Arizona Science Center, for FREE.

There is a lot of hands on fun.

For more information go to azscience.org.

Christmas Fires

2009-12-05T22:48:00.000-08:00

There have been many home fires lately. It makes me sad, that especially with the economy the way it is, the families are burdened through the holidays.
It makes me remember a story that my grandmother would tell me during the holiday's. My Abuelita, Regina O Gonzalez Ayala, was raised in the Mormon Colonies in Chihuahua, Mexico, in Dublan. She lived in a two story home. She would tell me how at Christmas, when she was little, it was not about the presents. That at Christmas Eve the family would have a nice dinner. The story of Jesus's birth was read from the scriptures. The lighting of the Christmas tree was a great celebration. You see, in those days, the lighting of the Christmas tree would actually be real candles that were lit and clipped on the branches.
One year when she was little, the Christmas tree caught on fire. She was upstairs with her sister. The fire was growing strong, hot, thick smoke and she couldn't see well. She told me how all the family made it out safe.
She was especially thankful of the members of our church. How the members pulled together as one family and quickly helped them. She was so blessed and thankful. So until recently, she hated candles burning in her home.
This past Thanksgiving, our family spent Thanksgiving in El Paso, Texas. My grandma was telling stories of when she grew up in the colonies again. How my great grandfather brother Andres Gonzalez, grandson is Elder Clate W. Mask Jr. from the Quorum of the Seventy. The families who grew up with her: the Browns, Kimball's, Erying's, Mortenson's, Pratt's, etc.
Well, I mentioned earlier that I bought the book Pioneer Christmas Excerpts from Personal Journals, Edited by Susan Arrington Madsen. Today I read the following journal:

As a child I lived in the little Mormon colony of Cobnia Juarez (which I wonder if its a typo and should be Colonia Juarez) in Northern Mexico. Early one Christmas morning I was carrying a small bucket of milk to my grandmother's house, which was a few streets away, when I saw that a house through the block was on fire. It was the home of one of my friends. Terrified, I dashed home to tell my parents. They and all the neighbors rushed to help, but their best efforts could not save the house.

In those days people fastened real candles on the Christmas tree and lit them. in my friends home one of the candles had tipped, setting first the tree and then the house ablaze. Everything was destroyed.

The community rallied around the family, supplying all their immediate needs. And I was even a bit jealous when the children of the family received more gifts for Christmas that year that had been under their tree.

I know the family would have been helped, whatever the time of year, but the outpouring of generosity seemed especially appropriate for Christmas Day, when traditionally we enjoy a special readiness to share.

Camilla Eyring Kimball

from Family Christmas Traditions

It makes me wonder, since my Abuelita mentioned the above names, and Camilla also share the names my grandmother mentioned, could this be my grandmothers home Camilla speaks of? I will call her tomorrow and find out...if she remembers her friends names.

Julia's Christmas

2009-12-02T06:13:00.000-08:00

One night when I was sixteen years old,

Father gave a Christms party for his own children

and their families and the nearest neighbors.

We danced.

My brothers were the musicians.

We knew it was Father's aim to end the party at ten o'clock,

which he did right in the middle of the

square-dance by ordering the musicians to stop.

But Father didn't know that my brothers

had lifted me up to the clock many times that night.

Each time I turned it back thirty minutes.

It must have been past midnight when the party broke up.

"Julia's Christmas"

from the Christian Olsen family record

Our Pioneer Heritage 14(1971):199

1907, La Verkin, Utah

25 Days

2009-12-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

25 Days.

Twenty-Five days to put up CHRISTmas lights,

decorate,

display The Nativites,

put up the CHRISTmas tree,

bake cookies,

clean and prepare,

sing carols,

read CHRISTmas stories,
visit friends,

visit family,

attend CHRISTmas parties,

wrap presents,

make presents,

listen to CHRISTmas music,

shop last minute gifts,

send out CHRISTmas cards

(that is if you do, I always end up with signed cards that don't make it out to the post office, I gave up),

plan CHRISTmas dinner,

18 get rid of old toys of children,

choose a family to act out the 12 Days of CHRISTmas,

picture with Santa,

visit the AZ temple grounds and listen to carolers and see the lights,

drive around and look at lights,

drink hot cocoa,

celebrate CHRISTmas Eve with family and open gifts, and

on the 25th day, Read the scriptures of Christ's birth.

I like to try to read CHRISTmas stories from a collection of CHRISTmas books I have to my children. I just added another book to my collection.

Edited by Susan Arrington Madsen, Pioneer CHRISTmas excerpts from personal journals is a must have. I will try to include passages from this book this month. With the recession here in Arizona and in many parts of United States, and Worldwide, these passages from the Pioneers who trekked across the plains of United States during cold holiday winters make you appreciate what we have and remind us of the true meaning of CHRISTmas. I would perfer

fresh homemade bread or a sweets over store bought nonsense, or family photos from friends and family. May we all have a stress free holiday season.

Hope you enjoy the passages or thoughts I will include this month.

All of us children hung up out stockings CHRISTmas eve.

We jumped up early in the morning to see what Santa had brought,

but there was not a thing in them.

Mother wept bitterly.

She went to her box and got a little apple and cut it in little tiny pieces

and that was our CHRISTmas.

But, I have never forgotten

how I loved her dear hands as she was cutting that apple.

Hannah Daphne Smith Dalton

Autobiography, LDS Church Archives

25 December 1862

Christmas past

2009-11-28T07:19:00.000-08:00

With all the Buya of Black Friday/Black Weekend sales I thought I'd list some Christmas Past wish list for kids...Member?

1960s commercial for Topper Toys' Suzy Homemaker items which allowed girls to "...wash dishes, clean house, launder, iron....and always look lovely." What could be more fun??!!

How about the Original Mr & Mrs Potato Heads,this is when Mr Potato Head was a real potato. They've come along way.

GI Joe come back.

How about The Green Machine?

Of course, some still haven't grown up from Big Wheels...This is funny must watch.

Even Underoo's were a secretly wanted, or as my brothers were would call them, "Tan-Tar-Rans"! You know, they would tie a towel around their necks and make it into a cape and yell, "Tan-tar-An!"

Although I searched high and low for a hand held AM/FM radio with hand strap that I once received for Christmas because it was a must have, As suppose to the I-Pods kids, including my husband, really want now; you had to stand in the right spot to get good radio reception and volume to work. I did come across this music inspiration commercial I just couldn't stop laughing I almost peed my pants off! Seriously, I couldn't stop thinking of this commercial.

Did you pee your pants off? Hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving and Black out specials were great. I stayed with family and decided that the early rise, stand in lines, grumpy crowds, was not as worth the thrill of shopping as staying home with family.

Thanksgiving Wishes

2009-11-26T05:38:00.000-08:00

For each new morning with its light,

For rest and shelter of the night,

For health and food, for love and friends,

For everything Thy goodness sends.

For flowers that bloom about our feet;

For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;

For song of bird, and hum of bee;

For all things fair we hear or see,

Father in heaven, we thank Thee!

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

From our tradition here in United States of America,

As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day, today,

May everyone around the world,

be thankful for what you have

and what not you have.

You might be wishing for what you have in the end.

Blessings to everyone.

Happy Thanksgivivg

I won a perfect Swimsuit

2009-11-18T06:19:00.001-08:00

Baby, Its cold outside. Yes in sunny Arizona, it does get cold.

Believe it or not there are still people that swim here.

Speaking of swimming, I just won a perfect swimsuit by http://www.slimperfect.com/.

For those of us who love to to hide alittle more than others. This is the perfect swim suit.

Please check out their website there are some great deals going on now.

Felizidades Melissa!

2009-11-12T16:37:00.000-08:00

Melissa at 320 Sycamorewas chosen for an interview from Houzz.com.Melissa and her husband has renovated her 1970's Ranch home to a home you'd want to nest with your family.

After reading her interview,

I'm sure you'll find something positive to comment. If you leave a comment,

you could have a chance to

win a $50 gift certificate from Target.

Hurry you have until Sunday, November 22, at 5pm EST.

Make sure you stop by and congratulate Melissa.

11-11-2009

2009-11-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

A Moment of Silence...

Thank you.

I finally met the pioneer woman

2009-11-05T21:56:00.000-08:00

I got there at 6:30. The place was packed. I was group M for book signing after Ree speaks to every one. No kidding, there must have been about 200 people, mostly women. Hannah, my 15 year old said she felt like in a beehive, with all the buzzing sounds of woman talking.
This was a small area I was standing at.
Then a representative from the store introduced Ree as follows:

Named one of Time magazine’s “25 Best Blogs of 2009,” Ree Drummond’s hugely popular ThePioneerWoman.com details her life as a mother, photographer, crafter, rancher’s wife, and cook. Drummond colorfully traces her transition from city life to ranch wife through recipes, photos, and pithy commentary based on her blog, and whips up delicious, satisfying meals for cowboys and cowgirls alike made from simple, widely available ingredients (Rib-Eye Steak with Whiskey Cream Sauce, Lasagna, Fried Chicken, Patsy’s Blackberry Cobbler, and Cinnamon Rolls—not to mention several “cowgirl-friendly” dishes, such as Sherried Tomato Soup, Olive Cheese Bread, and Crème Brûlée.) The Pioneer Woman Cooks—and with these "Recipes from an Accidental Country Girl," she pleases the palate and tickles the funny bone at the same time.

Then Ree came out. Do you see her?

How 'bout now?

Ree introduced herself and felt that she expressed herself in her website, in her sweet southern drawl (she lost the California Accent). Everyone agreeded and so the Ree answered questions that guests had. After 45 minutes, They seperated into groups to sign books. They started with Group A, I was group M, however, I was able to be pushed ahead with Group A. Mothers with children were able to jump ahead. Don't think I must of been able to skip and go that easy. I know what those steers felt that Ree speaks of. Moving from one side of the room to the other. No rhyme or reason, it was disorganized. I was in line for 55 minutes. There were still mothers with children when I left. But it was worth it. Imagen if I had to wait for Group M?? Poor Ree and her family, they must be exhausted.

It was worth the wait.

I must say that Ayla had to speak to Ree. She got dressed up, said that I needed to dress up in a dress, too. I didn't. She was on a mission to meet "The Pioneer Woman". When we were waiting our turn Ayla said, "Mom, give me the book and I'll go take it to the Pioneer Woman and have her sign it."
I had to teach her patience, and patience we had to learn. When we finally got up, Ayla extended her hand and introduced herself. "Hi my name is Ayla, nice to meet you Pioneer Woman" Ree loved her and asked her age. Ayla said 4, Ree said her youngest was 5. Ayla said she will be 5 soon. Ree asked when her birthday was. Ayla told her "November 11th" and they (Changing Hands) rushed us on, otherwise Ayla would have talked up a storm.

When we left, Ayla was in Awe that she finally met the Pioneer Woman.
"Mama?", asked Ayla.
"yes Ayla did you have fun?"
Ayla honestly said, "Uh *pause* no. It was to crowed and hot. But I liked Ms. Pioneer Woman, and she called me 'Sugar", with a big grin.
"Nobody has ever called me Sugar!"
I think this will be a big moment in Ayla's memories and will sleep with a smile. That in itself, made my day.
Thank you Ree, for your patience (And your family) and signing not only my cookbook, but everyone else who came to your book signing tonight, and every night away from your punks and Marlboro Man.

Good night:)

Yipee, Pioneer Woman is here and...

2009-11-05T07:56:00.001-08:00

Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman,

is here in town for her first book signing.

Remember I gave a head up here.

Thursday, November 5, 2009
7:00 PM
CHANGING HANDS BOOKSTORE
6428 S McClintock Drive, Tempe, AZ

Then tomorrow and on Saturday Domestic Bliss is having their Vintage Western Masquerade Party.

Domestic Bliss are so thrilled to have Stephanie & Christian Nielson visiting them as their Guests of Honor! This is truly a celebration for them as Domestic Bliss will once again be reunited with this amazing inspirational couple.You can also visit Stephanie on Saturday in our "blogging lounge"!
Time to be announced soon.

There will be entertainment on both days with live music, stage coach rides, face painting, make and takes, western carnival games and more.

A silent auction benefiting the Junior Diabetes Research Foundation.
If you live here in the valley, come out and support, and have fun.

Halloween Night

2009-11-01T10:57:00.000-08:00

Can you guess what my son dressed up as?

Ooops, how 'bout now?

If you guess Ponyboy from The Outsiders, Your right!
Isn't he handsome? My husband thought he looked more like soda pop.
As much as I love my son, nobody looks like Rob Lowe, so ponyboy he is.

In case you can't read the titles, Rob Lowe(Sodapop) is the second from the Left
and C.Thomas Howell (Ponyboy) is the third from the Left.

Can you guess what my youngest daughter is? If your guessed Silvermist from Tinkerbell friends, your right?
I know Silvermist has her hair down, but her wings kept falling off.
Oh and yes, this is one of the costumes that was last minute sewing until 4pm; from her outfit, the candy bag, wings, and her elf shoes. Silvermist fabric could not be found, so, painted the fabric like the blending colors of the real silvermist.

Can you guess what one of our older boys dressed up as?

How easy was this?

Yes, Wolverine! Fact: those are his real sideburns, he gets it from my babe.
However, like I said before, nothing like the real thing:)

Ooops, here is the real thing

My other sons either didn't want a picture or didn't dress up. And by the time I came back from trick or treating either my oldest girls were gone or I forgot to take their pictures.

Here is my 15 year old, as her own super hero with the wicked witch of the west. Here my youngest daughter holds hands & walks with her nephew, my grandson.
Can you guess what he is?
Yes, Winnie the Pooh.
I will say he is much cuter than the real winnie the pooh. We had friends who trick-or-treated with us.
Here is my oldest daughter with her family.

While we trick-or-treated... We saw dead people coming out the yards, Seeing plants, Jack-o-Lanterns (looking at me)...

And Ghostrider...BUAhhaahaa! Notice the orbs in the picture, hmmm.

Hope you had a safe Halloween!

Día De Los Muertos

2009-11-01T06:50:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share a little history and
understanding of The Day of the Dead.

More than 500 years ago, when the Spanish Conquistadors landed in what is now Mexico, they encountered natives practicing a ritual that seemed to mock death.
It was a ritual the indigenous people had been practicing at least 3,000 years. A ritual the Spaniards would try unsuccessfully to eradicate. A ritual known today as Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.
The Aztecs and other Meso-American civilizations kept skulls as trophies and displayed them during the ritual. The skulls were used to symbolize death and rebirth. The skulls were used to honor the dead, whom the Aztecs and other Meso-American civilizations believed came back to visit during the month long ritual. Unlike the Spaniards, who viewed death as the end of life, the natives viewed it as the continuation of life. Instead of fearing death, they embraced it. To them, life was a dream and only in death did they become truly awake.
However, the Spaniards considered the ritual to be sacrilegious. They perceived the indigenous people to be barbaric and pagan. In their attempts to convert them to Catholicism, the Spaniards tried to kill the ritual. But like the old Aztec spirits, the ritual refused to die. To make the ritual more Christian, the Spaniards moved it so it coincided with All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day (Nov. 1 and 2), which is when it is celebrated today. Previously it fell on the ninth month of the Aztec Solar Calendar, approximately the beginning of August, and was celebrated for the entire month.

Above: Aztec Warrior Dance Below: Aztec Calendar

Today, people don wooden skull masks called calacas and dance in honor of their deceased relatives. The wooden skulls are also placed on altars that are dedicated to the dead. Sugar skulls, made with the names of the dead person on the forehead, are eaten by a relative or friend.
Below is Crafty Chica's dedicated shrine in 2006The ritual is celebrated in Mexico and certain parts of the United States, including the Valley. Although the ritual has since been merged with Catholic theology, it still maintains the basic principles of the Aztec ritual, such as the use of skulls.　
The best mole made is my Abuelita Regina O. Gonzalez Ayala,
she serves it with Spanish rice and Cole slaw
(I love the juice from the Cole slaw and her slaw is to die for as well- no pun intended).

May you remember your families and
friends who moved on from this world
and remember happy thoughts and feel peace today.

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T23:41:00.000-07:00

Just tucked in the kids, and turned off the lights, and put on a redbox movie, cuddled with a blanket. Hope everyone had a safe Halloween! I'm tired and will post pictures tomorrow.

Thank You Phoenix Channel 3

2009-10-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

I was deathly sick two weeks ago. I was sick with fever for 4 days straight in bed, and bronchitis. I guess the best part of being sick is that my husband was watching the news and I vaguely heard...

TV: "Phantom of the Opera is coming to town, call now"

...and I jumped across the bed to reach over the phone...

TV:"Be the third caller and call"...

I hurt and took the air out of my husband,

as I reached for the phone on his night stand...

TV: "and win two tickets for the Phantom of the Opera"

... as I dialed the number and and it rang busy. So I called again...

and it rang and rang and rang and rang and rang...

just as I was going to hang up...

Channel 3: "Your caller number three"

I thought to my self: 'Oh? What caller did I need to be to win these precious tickets?

Channel 3: "Hello?" said the lady

I could barely speak, "Yes I'm here"

Channel 3: "Your caller number three and just won a pair of tickets to the Phantom of the Opera, could I get your name?"

I was more speechless than what I already was.

I got through the call and squeaked a scream of excitement.

I called my mom and asked if she would join me, because other than my youngest girls, she would appreciate the opera, and my husband doesn't do operas. Needless to say, my four-year-old and my 15-year-old were very upset they could not come.

The tickets were for October 28th, 2009 at the ASU Gammage Auditorium.

Last night my Mama and I went. It was spooktackular!
We were on the 7th row Balcony way up there.
If you haven't read or have gone to see Phantom of the Opera,
here is a summed version.
Prologue
The Phantom of the Opera is set in the year 1911, and opens at the Paris Opera House where its contents are being auctioned off. Raoul, a 70-year-old man in a wheelchair, buys a poster and a music box. When the Opera House chandelier is displayed, he explains how it is connected to the legend of the Phantom of the Opera. Then, with a flash of light, the audience is warped back to the time when the Opera House was at its height.

performed by Kim Stengel
Act I
Next, the audience sees a rehearsal of the opera Hannibal. As Carlotta, the prima Donna, is singing, a backdrop unexpectedly falls onstage. This almost kills Carlotta, and is assumed to be the work of the "Phantom of the Opera."
As the play continues, Christine Daae is introduced. She is a friend of Meg Giry, the daughter of Madame Giry. Christine has been taking opera lessons from a mysterious new teacher. This teacher is referred to as "The Angel of Music,Â” and seems to be very strict, because after one of Christine's childhood friends, Raoul, invites her to dinner, she turns him down because of her teacher. This mystery teacher turns out to be the Phantom.

He leads Christine to his underground home after Raoul leaves. Here, she sees a vision of herself in a wedding gown, which causes her to faint. She awakens a while later by the Phantom playing music on his organ. She sneaks up behind him and rips his mask off. Out of shock, he takes her back to ground level.
The Phantom sends notes to the Opera managers, Raoul, Madame Girl, and Carlotta in which he demands them to allow Christine to be the lead in the new opera Il Muto. The managers refuses, and appoints Carlotta as the lead and Christine a secondary role. Since the people who received the Phantom's notes did not give in to the demands, chaos begins. The stagehand is killed and Carlotta's voice is stolen. Raoul and Christine result to the Opera House's roof, where they pronounce their love for each other, not knowing that the Phantom is eavesdropping on their conversation. The Phantom becomes very angry, and, out of pure rage, causes the chandelier to crash down on the stage.
Act 2
This act opens up at a Masquerade Ball, which takes place on the Paris Opera House's steps. The Phantom has not been heard of for half a year. Christine and Raoul are secretly engaged--Christine keeps her engagement ring on a chain around her neck. The Phantom appears out of nowhere disguised as The Red Death; he delivers the managers a score from his own opera, Don Juan Triumphant. He wants them to perform this opera, but they refuse at first. A plan is concocted in which they trap the Phantom, using Christine as bait. The managers decide to perform the opera.

The costumes were breath taking.
Great detail in the wardrobe and costumes were sewn.

Christine visits the grave of her father, where she sees the Phantom standing on the grave, trying to persuade her to join him. Raoul appears and takes her away. On the opening night of Don Juan Triumphant, guards and policemen who all want to catch the Phantom surround the theater. As the play nears its end, and the Phantom appears onstage as Piangi, the lead singer. He confronts Christine and takes her back down to his underground lair. Here, he asks her one last time to stay with him forever, because if she doesn't he will kill Raoul. Christine then kisses him, which leaves him astounded, and he lets her go with Raoul. He sits in his throne with his cloak around him as a mob approaches the lair. Meg is the first one of the mob to arrive, and she tears off his cloak. All that is left is the Phantom's mask. -THE END-
Needless to say, it was last night and my Mama and I loved it.
I plan to take my girls next time it is in town.
It was a memory to remember.

I see a Jack-O-Lantern Looking at me

2009-10-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

I fly on my broom stick up in the sky...

I see a jack-o-lantern's looking at me...

from Good Housekeeping

Then over Martha Stewart's home...

welcoming terra cotta address pots from

DIY Showoff

Here's DIY Showoff in the Spring

Vintage Postcards with Pumpkins

Tomorrow, I think I'll fly over...

Old Mrs. Witch

2009-10-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

Once a upon a time, when schools were allowed to speak of "God" and saying the pledge freely and not worried of offending someone; and of Christmas Parties, along with Easter Break, not called as today: winter or spring break; there were Halloween Parties at school. The students were allowed to dress up in their costumes. Of course, there were safety issues with those plastic masks that made you sound like Darth Vader, even if Darth Vader didn't even exist then.

I found these past costumes pictures on google images awhile back so I apologize I do not have the sites I got them from.

1920's

1930's

1940's

1950's

1960s

Below:

the original Darth Vader Sound affect masks, lol.

1960-1970 school costume parade

Peanuts scene from It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (Which by the way will be shown on Tuesday the 27th of October on ABC).

I remember learning of a little Halloween song called, "Oh Mrs. Witch", when I was in kindergarten, that in it self was a very long, long, time ago. I don't think the public schools have traditions of Halloween Parties anymore let alone learning Halloween songs. I just thought I'd share the song I remember from kindergarten some 35 years ago, it goes like this...

Oh, Mrs. Witch

Tell me how you fly,

I fly on my broom stick, up in the sky.

Oh, Mrs. Witch
Oh, Mrs. Witch
Tell me what you see,
Tell me what you see,

I see a jack-o-lantern looking at me.

Oh, Mrs. Witch

Tell me what you'll do,

I'll fly on my broom stick, to scare you, BOO!

Thank You Robin!

2009-10-19T22:34:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!And I just can't hide it!

I'm about to loose control and I think I like it!

I won my first award, the best blog award!

Robin at Lolidots.com blog, thought of me, and awarded me a best blog award. Which by the way, I'm constantly telling you to please visit her blog. You've got to check out her cute blog and great chances of weekly giveaways!

The Best Blog Award rules are:

To accept the award

Post it on your blog together with the name of the person who gave it to you and his/her link.

Pass it on to 15 other blogs you have recently discovered and think are great!

Remember to contact the blogs you choose!

So I decided to give my best blog award to new blogs & friends I have met along the way, treasured blogs, crafty blogs, giveaway blogs, Nesting blogs, etc.

Without further a dew... Is that how you say it ?

Cathy @ Diary of a Crafty Chica ; I heart this chicas pizazz in crafting and she's from Arizona, too.
Rachelle @ Simply Crafting ; I heart who can create creative cards and crafts, check out her additional blogs, she's a native from arizona too.
Kevin & Amanda @ Kevin & Amanda/Recipes; MMMmmm, I heart this husband and wife duo in cooking in the kitchen recipes. Who doesn't love to cook with their soul mates?
Jenny @ All Sorts ; I heart the colors she uses in her craftiness and decor.
Stephanie @ NieNie Dialogues; I heart NieNies strength with God and courage to live for her family. I heart that she loves being a housewife and truly loves her husband and children and the strong family support for each other, she lived in my hometown, too.
Rue @ Rue's Peanut Butter and Jelly Life ; I heart Rue's hospitality and her love for her husband and family and the teamwork this couple have in nesting their home together.
Aunt Ruthie's @ Aunt Ruthie's Sugarpie Farmhouse; I'm inspired by her thoughts on "only want to fill my home with happy goodness. Things that promote God’s blessings and bring honor to Him", well said Aunt Ruthie.
Kimm @ Reinvented ; simply said, "home decor for real people, with real stuff, and real budgets".
Kate @ Centsational Girl; I get inspired by her DIY projects and if you hurry she has a giveaway with cabinetknob.com going on right now.
Serena @ Farmchicks; Serena is an editor with Country Living and shares her joys.
Jill @ Homemade by Jill; one of the first tutorial blogs that inspired me to blog, I just have to have the patience & remembrance to do step by step projects. I usually remember after I created something that I should have done a before picture or even an after picture.
Kathy @ Lil Bit Old * Lil Bit New; a new blogger and a new friend, I enjoy reading Kathy's thoughts and entering her giveaways:)
Cynthia @ Cynthia's Cottage Design; I heart the design and inspirations that Cynthia creates in her home with that touch of vintage and cottage feel.
Tanya @ Trey an Lucy; I heart that she turns second hand furniture into recycled new furniture and the other thoughts she shares.
Deborah @ Navarro Family; My sister inspired me to start a blog. No way did I think I would come this far in blogging, Thank you sis.

These are all amazing blogs with different talents and expressions! Please check them all out! It took me a while to add everyone, and now that I completed all 15, I wish I could add more awards because I have come across many. Congrats to the ones I finally complete, there is no order in choice.

Disclaimer* I, like Robin @ the Lolidots.com Blog, cannot be held liable for dirty dishes pile ups, laundry mishaps, missed deadlines or unbrushed teeth as a result of the time spent on these fabulous blogs! Well, maybe not the un-brushed teeth part.

A Fanciful Celebration and more

2009-10-17T22:15:00.000-07:00

Make sure you visit A Fanciful Twist for her Halloween Celebration and visit her guests who also participated for a Fanciful Delight.

Melissa at Out numbered 3 to 1 is having a birthday bash! Stop by and visit for a chance to win great giveaways. Like a Jonas Dog from Build-A-Bear or birthday gift set or darts and other great giveaways.

Happy Birthday

2009-10-13T21:58:00.000-07:00

Today my Daughter turned 15 years old. She is becoming a beautiful, talented, young woman. Here's to many more birthdays pookie;)

2009-10-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Guess who is coming

to visit the Phoenix Valley?

Give Up?

Mrs. Ree Drummond herself!

Who is Ree Drummond?

She is The Pioneer Woman

Just click here for more information about The Pioneer Woman.

In short, she welcomes all to her frontier.

She describes herself as a desperate housewife

who channels Lucille Ball and Ethel Merman.

And if you don't know who Lucille Ball

and Ethel Merman(Vivian Vance) is?...

Let not go there,

just click this parking sign below to link to Lucy and Ethel.

Back to Ree, she has spent the last year-and-a-half of her life

writing this cookbook,

(Cookbook cover from pioneerwoman.com)

All her fans have been waiting for this cookbook.

Here's a peek in the inside,

from the pioneerwoman.com.

The Pioneer Woman Cooks will be released October 27.

She will having a signing tour this fall & will be here on...

Thursday, November 5, 2009

7:00 PM

CHANGING HANDS BOOKSTORE

6428 S McClintock Drive, Tempe, AZ

Click here for a location near you:)

If you haven't visited The Pioneer Woman,

please click here and visit her frontier.

And if by chance Ree is reading my lil'posting,

Felizidades, on your long awaited

Cookbook:)

Dear Jane Giveaway

2009-10-05T13:46:00.000-07:00

The Apron Goddess is having an apron giveaway from Dear Jane Aprons.

Hurry, tomorrow, Tuesday, October 6

this you last chance to enter the Dear Jane Apron giveaway.

I love this Lovely Lucy Retro Apron.

Actually all her aprons are so sweet, lovely, and cute.

And since we are speaking of aprons and giveaways,

I heart this cocktail apron, Fiesta - Black w/Pom Poms

or what about this Halter Apron?
I like the Luxe Red II or this Teri.

Make sure you visit The Apronista for your chance to win your choice of Heavenly Hostess Aprons. You have until Sunday, October 11th to win one of these beauties:)

Good Luck on both of the Giveaways!

There a little witch in every woman

2009-10-02T13:56:00.000-07:00

Back in 1690, some people believed Maria Owens was a witch. Others claim that she was just unlucky in love. Both were true. And in fact, both traits became family tradition: garden-variety witchcraft combined with sorrows in love, in somewhat unequal proportion.

Maria Owens made her home on a small island in New England. All of her daughters and granddaughters and great-great-great granddaughters grew up here, just as beautiful and careless and unfortunate in love. Myself and Aunt Jet live in the old Owens house, and we took in two of our nieces, Sally and Gillian, after their parents died.

Of course, as in any close family, there were rituals and customs to be passed along to the next generation, and we taught them what the Owens women have always known: the ancient arts of white magic. But the strength that comes from the use of this practical magic also carries a price - it seems that all the men we fall in love with die untimely deaths.

So as Sally grew, she watched us weaving spells for the lonely and the lovelorn, and one day decided that she'd never suffer the misfortune of falling in love. She cast her own spell, making sure that the only man she could ever truly love would have a combination of qualities she'd never be able to find.Her sister Gillian, on the other hand, grew up to break hearts the way other people break kindling for firewood.

Sally lives with us now in Maria's old house, with her two daughters Kylie and Isabelle. (Their father died, of course.) Sally - who was obsessed with being "normal" even as a child, poor dear -- tries to go around pretending to be like other people, keeping me and Aunt Jet from teaching Kylie and Isabelle spells and rituals. But the more she denies her own powers, the more they seem to bubble up. After all, there's a little witch in every woman.

I believe there is a little magic in all of us.

The above intro was taken from Practical Magic .

One of my favorite movies and let me say

I love collecting movies so this is one of many movies I enjoy watching.

I heart the plot, I heart the aunts: Jet and Frances, and I heart the home. If I wasn't so scared of the predictions of earthquakes and

tsunami's on the western coast line,

I would love to live near the seaside.

Thus the reason why I chose to show you

my inspiration home from the movie Practical Magic.

Fact, Did you know when they made the movie they built the Victorian home from scratch? Yeah, and after the movie was made it was on the market. No one bought the home in Washington and so they demolished the home! What a waste! Absurd! Had I only won the Lotto!

Here let me show you the beautiful home that sits on a cliff over looking the ocean, the beautiful small town around it, and the boutique I always wanted...

"In this house we have chocolate cake for breakfast.

And we never bother with silly things like bedtimes

or brushing out teeth." ~Practical Magic

Above the Day Time view and

Below the Night time view,

here the Owens Sisters

Jump down like Mary Poppins from their home

on all Hollows Eve.

"Fine! But I do not want them dancing naked under the full moon..." ~Practical Magic

The home looks so comforting.

What woman, or man, wouldn't love to cook in a kitchen so grand.

Or have the sunlight shine through in the morning while eating breakfast?

"with the sweet, always comes the sour" ~ Practical Magic

Here the Aunts make a spell for a towns lady,

who wants to win the heart of her lover.

"they feared her because she had a gift,

a power, that has been passed onto you children,

she had the gift of magic.

And it was that very gift that saved her life."

~ Practical Magic

This photo below is taken from the

October 1998 Issue of Victorian Magazine.

To have a garden by the seaside and see the sunset in the eve...

"Just herbs...you know...from the garden..." ~ Practical Magic

To have a garden shed...

"but still sometimes, when the wind is warm,

and the crickets sing, I dream of a love that even time will lie down and be still for."
~Practical Magic

Oh, and I love the music chosen for this film.

Here they share Midnight Margarita"s, Enjoy.

"There's a few things I've learned in life:

always throw salt over your left shoulder,

keep rosemary by your garden gate,

plant lavender for good luck,

and fall in love whenever you can."

~Practical Magic

The Yodeling Dwarf Giveaway

2009-10-01T16:53:00.000-07:00

This just in, Jacob R Parker, an aspiring teenage author is having a book giveaway. I don't know when the last day is to enter.

Stop by his blog at The Yodeling Dwarf and learn more about this wonderful book giveaway in which he is giving away three copies of a new fantasy book in the vein of Narnia.

Make sure you stop by he has very interesting book reviews.

My favorite Month

2009-10-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

I heart October. It's like spring all over again here in the Phoenix Valley. It was 105 degrees yesterday and today it was 95 degrees and dropping:) The weather is beautiful. Yet, its time to collect wood for weekends by the fire pit. Hayrides and spooks. Hot cocoa and soup, not to mention Carmel apples and popcorn balls. Try this recipe from Country Living for Caramel Candied Apples and click on the link. I'm including a recipe for caramels by Edna Nelson, which I found, and please correct me if I'm wrong, from Kevin and Amanda who has lots of easy and delicious recipes, many moons ago. In case you cannot read it below...

2Cups of Sugar

2 Cups of Cream

1 3/4 cup of Light Karo Syrup

1 Cup of butter (the real stuff not margarine)

1 tsp. Vanilla

optional: nuts

Boil the sugar, Karo Syrup, butter, and half of the cream (7/8 cup).

After Boiling, SLOWLY add the rest of the cream. Cook to form ball stage. Add nuts if desired. Pour onto buttered pan, and cool.

I wanted to share some Halloween fun going on.

Please share of any other party you might know of so we can all visit.

Robin at Lolidot.com is having always having fun giveaways. Now she is having a "Spooktacular" Event.

Be sure to visit October 12th - the 17th.

At A Fanciful Twist, Vanessa is a very artistic Arizonian.

She currently, among other blogger's, are getting ready for her Halloween Extravaganza on October 17th, 2009.

You must check out her creativeness.

You'll find potions and much more!
Even find the labels to create your own potions.

You can find labels also at Love Manor to create your own potions. Even a recipe for Dead Man's Toes, sounds delicious:) I prefer fresh meat.

Here's a peak at Love Manors home.

I also wanted to share ideas for Halloween Decorations and/or Halloween Party Themes I have found surfing the net. Or shall I say flying on my broom stick up at the sky and looking over blogs? At Martha Stewart I thought this table set up was grand. Oh, from A Wicked Good Time: macabre banquet table (featuring Slithered Scream Beans, Cauldron Curry, and Squeamish Squash with Rice).

At Martha Stewart I found this cute party favor.

I forgot to grab the link so you'll have to search her website.

At Hostess with the Mostess, a twilight party was thrown in April,

but why not use some of her fun for Halloween Night?

Every thing was planned well from the red vines that Bella ate for treats, to different types of blood to drink, quotes, lip shine for that perfect vampire kisses, Esme’s line: “We’re making Italiano for you.” to display on the buffet table by the Italian food, and mood lighting created with white twinkle lights & candles. It is a must to visit for us Twilight fans.

Or maybe your into a Ghouls Night Halloween Party?

Or Modern Midnight Madness?

Or Playful Mod Halloween Party?

Or Spooky Chic Dinner Party?

You can find these Ideas and instructions to her idea at Hostess with the Mostess, just click on the pictures for direct link.

Well, This is just a few of the fun posts I will include this month.

So please check frequently.

This month is going to be better than the last.

That is unless there is another spell on my computer.

Leo'nels Birthday Party

2009-09-30T22:15:00.000-07:00

September is a month full of birthdays in our family.

This month we celebrated my brother J. Sebastian on the 2nd.

His son, my nephew, Caiden, birthday was on the 12th.

Happy Birthday Caiden we miss you!

He just turned 7, but I haven't seen him since this picture was taken:(

In between is my sister-in-law, Nina, who's birthday is on the 6th & My brother-in-law is on the 24th. Both are siblings of my husband.

Below is their turkey cook off. Don't let the blackened(burnt) one fool you. It was delicious and juicy.

On the 20th, our oldest son turned 18 years old.

On the 22nd my brother Daryl turned 25. Derik my other brother in this picture turned 26 on Aug. 14th, kinda late but I posted Deriks birthday on his My Space.

Below was Twenty years ago, Here Derik is 6 and Daryl is 5 years old, still posing in front of our grandmas front porch, same smiles:)

and speaking of Tio Daryl, my grandson was born on Daryl's birthday. So Leo'nel my grandson just turned One!

Below are pictures of his first Chicken McNugget Happy Meal at McDonald's on his birthday.

Below,Leo'nel & is his Tia Ayla (Auntie Ayla)are comparing their happy meal surprise.

Then Emma our oldest daughter shared her 20th birthday with my step-dad Mundo, on the 28th.
This is Mundo my dad with my mama.

Below is Emma with my grandson.

We celebrated Leo'nels 1st birthday with a Rocker's Theme. We were to dress in our rocker outfits. Here is my niece Olivia with here rocker out fit and tattoos.

Check out my nephew Evan with his blue hair and tattoos as well.

I wish I took more photos of the party, but I was busy helping my daughter hosting. She had Barbacoa, rice and beans, you know, typical Latino food. Along with popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones. Yeah, over blown 1st birthday, but my daughter and Alex felt like this is his first birthday and deserves the best.

Here's his cake.

Here is Leo'nel with his parents, Alex and Emma, helping Leo'nel blow out the candle.

The next day we BBQ some more at Alex's and Emma's. We celebrated Emma's birthday with Oscar my son. Here they get ready to blow out the candle.

Whew! That's all the birthdays for September. Happy Birthday to all you September Birthdays!

I'm Back

2009-09-20T09:51:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted in awhile. My Computer has been down. I've said it before; it's 10 years old. In computer years that's an antique! So with my computer being an antique, and having Alzheimer's that causes it to sometimes works and sometimes...well forget it! Hopefully I have time to post and catch up today on things going on, what I've been doing, announce the winner of the 100 post, and on and on and on.

First things first, Candy! There are fun giveaways going on right now. I won a couple of fun treasures myself:)
From Kathy at blog, I won these little treasures.

Chocolate covered berries that came just in time, a plaque that says "Sing like you know the words",

"Paris" eraser, a sweet smelling lavender sachet, an adorable cupcake pincushion,and a dainty pink roses planter
Kathy is currently having a chocolate bliss giveaway as I speak or shall I say as I type. Anyways, Please check out her blog at Lil bit old Lil bit new.

Then at Baby Loving Mama and Me and My Boys they are still running daily giveaways for Lets Hear It for the Boys.

Let's not forget Mom Trends and Lolidots weekly giveaways.

I won a Knuckle shirt for my grandson from Lolidots.com and

Nowali moccasins Slippers for my daughter for her birthday or Christmas I haven't decided from Mom Trends. Let me say that I must buy a pair for my self. My oldest daughter is thinking of buying a pair herself. The photos do no justice on how comfortable these moccasin sock slippers are with leather soles.
And currently I found this blog that is sweet.

Kimm at Reinvented is giving away these earings from Molly at A Bit o'Shine etsy shop. Please visit both sites.

Marie Antoinette at Creations by Marie Antoinette is having her Surprise Bloggiversary Giveaway!

Speaking of Bloggiversary,

there were 2 who entered my 100post Bloggiversary

and into my teacup the names were put in to be drawn.

My soon to be 15 year old Hannah pulls out a name
....who could it be?

Tag your it!

Go Kathy, Go Kathy!

But Wait!

My four year old Ayla picked a name too.

How can I tell her only one winner,
So....

you also will win a last minute prize.

Yeah! Please send me your mailing address to bnaalfaro@gmail.com.

I will mail out your prize the end of this week.

Labor Day

2009-09-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

It's Labor Day!

If you have a paid day off today, enjoy it and pray for the rest of United States who are layed-off or like my husband who are forced to take the day off without pay and remember why the purpose of labor day exists.

Thats all I got to say about that.

Current Giveaways!

2009-08-23T11:20:00.000-07:00

There are several giveaways going on right now. Some have a deadline by tonight like at Baby Loving Mama, she is giving away a Coach Wallet from Jomashop.com.

Lollipops and Polkadots always have great giveaways as well. I recently won a Knucklehead T-shirt that my grandson will wear on his 1st birthday.

Just click on the buttons to take you to their sites.
And don't forget, until the end of this month I'm having my own giveaway.

Tell a friend of my 100 post Celebration.

Comment that you spread the word for an extra entry.

But don't comment here, click here.

Buena Suerte! Good Luck!

Reminder of Giveaway.

2009-08-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

Have you heard? Spread the word.

Tell a friend of my 100 post Celebration.

Comment that you spread the word for an extra entry.

But don't comment here, click here.

Buena Suerte! Good Luck!

Tagged: 10 Things About Me

2009-08-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

Think your friends and family know you? Perhaps there are things they are missing! Tag your it! Rules: Things have to be about YOU, not places you've been to, people you know, etc. Whom will you tag? Now, here is the chance for 3 friends to join in. Thanks to my sister Deborah, I've been tagged. Hmmmm.....

1. My middle name is starts with M. No its not Maria! However, it is Wendy's grandma's name in Peter Pan, or shall I say Hook....yes it's Mayra.

2. In high school, I was in marching band, took sewing for 4-5 years, took photography, in DECA, and took welding and auto mechanics talk about a variety of classes.

3. I took the ASVAB Test (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) and scored high in the Engineering and low in the Home Economic portion. Note: it was the 80's and my mom didn't want me to join the Armed Forced and become an airplane mechanic. My vision is not 20/20, otherwise I would have loved to be a pilot:) She felt it was not for proper girls. The Air Force, which I really wanted to go to, kept calling interested in me. I respected my moms wishes and after I married my first husband, she told me she regret me not enlisting.

4. I was a Bluebird first & later a Girl Scout.

5. My favorite color: none. I love colors that remind me of the ocean sunset. Blue/Purple/Red/White/Deep Green, kinda like a peacock feather.

6. I sometimes think I was born in the wrong era. I love the 1930's-1960's. I also like the Victorian and Renaissance era. Yet I'm glad I'm living today, where there are vaccines, epidurals, tampons, deodorants, woman rights and voting, washing machines, and especially the A/C.

7. I love Music. I haven't played the piano in aloooooooong time, but I can still play Moonlight Sonata. I some day will have my piano. Until then, I love buying sheet music, even though I don't have a piano.

8. I want to learn to play the harp and guitar.

9. The same daughter that wants to send me to What Not to Wear, thinks I collect junk. I just say, "Don't Hate, Appreciate". I collect Renaissance Swords, Fairies, I collect Coca-Cola (Pepsi not allowed in my home), Shells and anything Beach/Nautical/Ocean, I collect musical instruments from around the world, Pottery, Vintage Kitchen anything (table clothes, doilies, aprons, kitchen utensils, bowls), Pin-up Corona and vintage tropical & Garden Deco.

10. I love visiting small towns and trying family restaurants and shopping in 2nd hand and antique shops with my husband.

Chalo's Family Restaurant and Soda Pops Antique Store Located in Globe, AZ

Wow, that was HARD! OK, I tag, Rachelle, Molly, Rachel and all you visitors. Let me know when you post your tag:)

Back to School

2009-08-13T17:14:00.001-07:00

The kids started school yesterday. It was so nice to send them off. I remember taking pictures of my oldest children, making them wave and yell "freeze! Wait till I take the picture! SNAP! Okay you can go now"

Now I felt like I practically slamed on my brakes and yelled at them to hurry! Even though they still had 15 minutes till the tardy bell! I feel like such a bad mom, NOT:) My husband and I, along with my 4 year old went and had lunch to celebrate!

I didn't pick them up till 6pm! It was heaven.

Okay, In my defense, the kids wanted to stay late after school.

It has been a long summer without many of their friends.

The school has after school activities at the Boys and Girls Clubs and so...

they were not abandoned.

Then I picked them up, they ate dinner and off to Cub & Boys Scouts at 7pm and my daughter had Young Womens at church. So I really scored!

After so many kids, you want the peace.

I have a feeling it will not be the same with my baby who is 4 now.

She is my last one yet to go to school.

She has to wait a year to go to school, since she will be 5 in November.

She can add basic math and read some words.

She is to smart for her britches and has great memory.

With Arizona having cut the budget for Education,

they did not have Early Kindergarten programs for my daughter.

Speaking of school, I thought I would share the oldest school still standing in Arizona. This is the Pine-Strawberry School House on Fossel Creek Road.

It is now a museum, located about a two hour drive north of Phoenix,

20-30 min north of Payson. This school was built in the 1880's.

I thought you would be interested how times have changed.

Here are the Rules For both Teachers and Students in 1872.

100th post Giveaway

2009-08-13T17:13:00.001-07:00

Its been a year and 100 posts later
since I've been blogging!

So I was thinking,
since you put up with my ramblings,
I would celebrate by having a giveaway.
I haven't decided what I would put in this care package
to share with my readers.
I was thinking I should do a theme...like Things I collect,
My favorites, Things from AZ, Vintage Collection,
Fun Night, or In the kitchen.
In any case,

I will post a peek of my giveaway later this week.
Until then, have a cupcake, or two. To enter you must answer the following question.

What would you wish for,
if you blew out the candle?

All comments must be posted by noon,
MST (Arizona Time) on Sunday, August 30th
in the 100th post giveaway comments.
Winner will be announced on Monday, August 31st.

Can you believe I never won a thing and now...

2009-08-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have never won anything,

that I can think of, and today, I won two things.

I was most excited to win chocolate from the Frugal Gals. Then later I won a Knucklehead T-Shirt for my grandson From Lollipops and Polkadots. Maybe I should buy a Power Ball, no I'm sounding greedy now. But $186 million does sound nice:) Thank you so much ladies:) Please visit their sites.

I came across some other giveaways. I thought you might like to visit.

You need to hurry some deadlines are sooner than others.

Lines of Communication (and a $200 Visa gift card) from Smockity Frocks http://smockityreviews.blogspot.com/
Bake and Destroy Apron from Cupcake Provocateur
http://cupcakeprovocateur.blogspot.com/
Me4Kidz MediBuddy & So Cozy Goodie Bag from Lollipops & Polkadots
http://www.lolidots.com/giveaways/
Momtrends has several giveaways before 8/31 including mocasins, Build-a-Bear, Swatch and others you need to take a peak at:)
http://momtrends.blogspot.com/2009/08/nowali-mocasins.html
Beach Blanket Party from Lil Bit Old*Lil Bit New
http://lilbitoldlilbitnew.blogspot.com/
Giveaway at Apron Girls sponsored by great cookware and beautiful desks! http://www.aprongirls.blogspot.com/

Thank you all for visiting:)

Apron Fest '09 Winner

2009-08-09T20:43:00.000-07:00

I finally drew a name for the

Apron Fest '09 Giveaway,

or should I say a Clone Trooper and
Princess Snow White drew names.

First, Thank you to all that entered.

I browsed each site that provided a link,

& I was inspired and delighted by many.

I have been overwhelmed by the kind words

and memories of aprons you all have said!

For more memories of aprons visit

http://www.apronchronicles.com/chronicles/ada.html

or click the button below.

Make sure you have a tissue or two,

all the portraits and voices made me tear up.

The first winner

that was chosen is...
Damaris said...
my apron memory- I grew up in Brazil. My grandma has this huge kitchen and makes really good food. She always wears an apron. She would let me wear her apron if I ate all my food. I know love aprons and send her a new one every year for her birthday.

You may choose from the full Denim Apron

the Half apron with the embroidered pocket:)

Felizidades Damaris!!!

The second winner...

And I must say why I chose to have a second winner.

After Apron Fest started,

I received a call that my friend Carol R. was

going under surgery for breast cancer.

We all prayed that the Dr.'s get everything.

Apparently, she will have to go through Chemotherapy.

& it looks like she'll beat it.
Carol is a wonderful friend and I have never heard her say anything wrong about anyone, expect her first husband, who she survived domestic abuse from.

If she can beat the odds of abuse,

and now have a loving husband who is by her side,

along with friends who love her,

she can beat this!

We have a long road ahead of us and lot's of prayers.

So, I decided to make a breast cancer awareness half apron,

with a ruffled pocket.

I dedicate this apron to Carol R.,

those fighting or survived breast cancer, and in fact, any cancer.

So, the second winner is:

Kathy said...
Thank you for the chance to win one of your aprons. And thank you for the story about your grandma. I miss mine so much. I wish my husband could of met her. I have memories the most at Christmas time. Making cookies and fudge. I now make everything with my 6 yr. old granddaughter. I think its neat to have different aprons because it can change you personality. Come check my blog contest out as well tomorrow. www.lilbitoldlilbitnew.com
Felizidades Kath':)

This was so much fun to get to hear from other blogger's and readers. I will definitely be doing something like it again soon, since I will be hitting my 100th post. So please come back and check out the blog once in a while!

¡Gracias A Todos!

Thank You Everyone!

Here is the drawing for the winners.
I had problems reading the folded papers and holding the camera.

Who could it be? Apron Fest '09

2009-08-08T21:37:00.000-07:00

Although I feel all of the above symtoms,

and soreness from slipping and landing on my buttocks,

I am laying in bed,

under the weather, and

No, I'm not pregnant.

I have my aprons done and have delayed the winner until 6pm MST.

So hurry, if you have not entered yet, do so now.

Oh and yes, aprons,

I have decided

since I have pushed the winner announcement a day,

I will add two winners.

Ciao for now,

Arnnette

Apron Fest '09

2009-08-03T23:07:00.002-07:00

¡Ay, Caramba! I'm late for the

What is Apron Fest? I will tell you at the end of this post.

First I want to share my memory of Aprons.

My memory of aprons start with

my Abuelita Regina O. Gonzalez-Ayala.

She is like Martha Stewart. My grandma was a florist and would create arrangements for regional church conferences and films filmed in El Paso and I even met Jack Nicholson. She would make good Mexican food, to this day I don't like Mexican food restaurants because it's not like my grandmas. Everything is by scratch not canned beans, not canned enchilada sauce, and her mole sauce is heavenly (a Chile/chocolate cinnamon type of BBQ sauce). She could sew, she could can food, make crafts, she would iron her sheets and everything in between, she could knit and crochet, she would make everything by scratch like pie crusts, buñuelos, biscuits. I'm getting hungry. Actually, my grandma surpassed Martha Stewart. She is a real pioneer woman.

My memories with my grandma were most memorable in the kitchen with my Tia's. Everyone wearing an apron. We would talk about memories and girl talk, because we did not "gossip", today we call it networking, heehee.
This is my Abuelita holding my dad.

Here you'll see a couple of my aprons hanging in my kitchen.

The white one with the embroider is my first apron.

My grandma gave it to me when I was pregnant with my first child.

She said she made it when she was pregnant with my dad.

That would make my apron 64 years old, sorry dad.

The rest is history! That is when I started sewing and collecting aprons.

Now here is your chance to win one of my aprons.

I will post a picture of my apron giveaway later.
To enter contest, all you have to do is briefly comment here

What memory do you have with aprons?

It can be a memory of something

you cooked, cleaned, or made crafts in.

Post your comment (one entry per name)

by Saturday 6pm Arizona Time.

What is Arizona Time? Here in AZ, we don't mess with our clocks for daylight savings time. It stays the same. I know California is the same time now.

El Paso, TX is an hour ahead.

So I think we are currently considered CST. Anyways,

I will have one of my princesses draw the winner's name this Saturday evening. Please include your email address. So I can mail the apron to you.

Now git on over to Apronista.com to checkout all the other giveaways going on
Click on the button to joint the fun at Apronista.com
for more information on participating

(It can be homemade, store bought, or a vintage find)

or just signing up for chances

to win a free apron from other participants.

Good Luck!

Ciao for now,

Arnnette

Where did July go?

2009-08-03T23:07:00.001-07:00

Last I remember posting was about the 4th of July weekend. I am so bad. So I'll post what I've have been doing. Visiting the Library and enrolling the Kids in the Reading Program.

Here I'm reading to my youngest and my grandson.

Ayla and Leo'nel enjoyed some books I read, especially,

Once Upon a Cool Motorcycle dude by Kevin O'Malley.

We end up checking out the book and Leo'nel just kept wanting his Tio's to read it as well as Ayla. I recommend this book.

It is about a boy and a girl telling their side of the princess fairy tale.

Even my boys ages 10 and 11 enjoyed it.

Ayla wanted her time reading to herself at the library.

I've also visited The Antique Plaza Mall with 2 floors and about 20,000 feet of treasures. It used to be the Woolworth's store, or was it the New Berry. I remember going and looking for fabric and asking my mom for a Astro Pop. Here's an Astro Pop. I could not find the original Astro Pop. The "Original" pop had the stick the oposite end as the one shown. Therefore, I would make the point really, really, pointy, like you do the end of candy canes, and POKE my brother:) Ahhh, good memories. I love you George- hehe.

This is what I bought...

I couldn't resist this vintage apron and Holly Hobby doll, too.

I still have the Holly Hobby Bake oven, or shall I say my

mama has saved it and has it on her shelf.

Ohh, I love tablecloths as well.

I found this vintage tablecloth and cookie cutters.

My family are San Francisco 49er Fans and Oakland Raider.

I found this fabric that I will turn into

a tablecloth for Football season

which is around the corner.

And making...

Can you guess?

How 'bout now?

Now?

A Hello Kitty Piñata

for my cousin Dania's

little granddaughter, Quinnie.

Along with an apron and pot holder as a gift.

I didn't think of displaying a picture of her apron

and pot holder so this picture isn't that great.

What is great, is this video of Ayla hitting the piñata and got candy out.

This scary video is Dorian almost hits his sisters head.

Here are more photos at the party.

Sorry Monica you were chopped off.

Here is my 14 year old with My grandson.
Monica is her stepsister, she's very sweet and quite.

Did you see how my nephew Evan sucked up a big breath to hit the pinata? Devan and Dorian waiting for the candy to be busted.

This is Olivia my niece, Evan's baby sister.

Here is Ayla, Evan, and my cousin Diego's girl Melia.

And here is Evan Sharing.

In case your wondering, yes it was a swimming party.

We also went to the AZ Museum of Natural History.

Where Ayla was mesmerized by the 'Knight'.

Which she later learned it was a conquistador, a Spanish 'Knight'.

She loves watching medieval movies with me.

She wants to learn to fight with swords, which she has like her mama.

Here is my husband with my son, Dorian.

We learned of the films made here in Arizona.

Dorian helps his sister with this map.

We learned of Mars and saw "The Rover".

To the ancient land of the Mayan People.

Devan learned to remember WW JD.

This is definitely not the path he wants.

(which reminds me something I learned in seminary,

If you stay on the narrow path ""

and do not stray off the path "S"

then it will not end up costly "$"

in the end:))

We learned of the gold mines and

panned for gold.

The walls out in the gold mine patio

were painted with a beautiful mural.

As we left the gold mine,

mission era, and the hohokum Indians,

we came accross...

Manny the Wooly Mammoth.

The kids and this father and son built this 3D Mammoth puzzle.

We learned about the prehistoric times.
This prehistoric shark looks cute with those big eyes.

Ayla was not sure about the T-Rex.

Then she tried to prove to me it was alive.

We then went to another museum, The AZ Museum for Youth.
I love this quote by Walt Disney.

This board had little visitors creations posted as they finnished.
Here Ayla played house and organized the kitchen.

I loved the "VanGo" Van.

Watch it, The spider is coming at you Babe.

Yes, my husband has arachnophobia.

My husband was like, what are you doing laying on the floor?

Never mind, he said and walked away.

I was taking a picture of this flower on the ceiling.

I heart weird art creations and Dr. Seuss.

My husband, not. He doesn't get it.

So we left the museums and

went to this lil'park in Gilbert

so the kids can cool off.

I was 113 degrees that day.

Ciao for now,
Arnnette

Switchflops Giveaway!

2009-07-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

How Cute Are These?!!

Or This?

Lindsay Phillips is generously giving One lucky reader from

Lollipops & Polka Dots a pair of SwitchFlops !!
Just click the button or to the link for your chance to win a SwitchFlop from Lindsay Phillips collection.

http://lolidots.com/giveaways.php

Contest open until Friday July 31st at midnight central US time so hurry!

Ciao for now,
Arnnette

Not Quite June Cleaver

2009-07-09T01:09:00.000-07:00

Susan over at Not Quite June Cleaver is having a fabulous apron giveaway just 'cause. Go and enter before the week is up. She is giving away two aprons!

Ciao for now,
Arnnette

Happy Birthday USA

2009-07-04T03:27:00.001-07:00

We Celebrated our 4th of July in Payson, AZ

Lets go back a day before the 4th of July,
This is what it looked like the day before...

Here the boys are playing in the rain...until..

It starts to hail the size of small coins.

Devan runs for safety.

Dorian, decides to drink the rain water from the gutter!!! GROSS!!!

Note: Kids do not try this at home. Dorian learned his lesson after his mama told him not to and had a stomach virus later that night.

Moral of the story: Listen to your mom

Then Ayla says, "I don't need a shower, I just washed my hair"

Think again, my sweet baby doll.

She took a shower later and said,

"You were right mama.

My hair feels softer since I used your ca-ditioner and smells better"

Like I said, mama knows best.

Leo'nel my grandson, liked to look at the rain, not touch the rain.

The rain finally stopped in the early the next day.

Nothing was going to stop our trip to Payson.

Dorian got better as well, after all that muck was out of his body.

The next day we drove to Payson, AZ with my sister-in-law and her family. We took the 3 younger kids: Ayla, Devan, & Dorian.

Hannah and Oscar went to Las Vegas with their dad, Emma spent it with Alex, Chelsea was in Virginia, Tyrel, Kayla and Jordan were with their other families as well. Hannah had been here before and wanted to be here, she was missed as all her brothers and sister were as well.

The local parade started at 9am and we got there around 10:30 am. So we missed the parade. My kids have been here before so they were excited to be here. My niece and nephew I think were awestruck with Green Valley Park and went exploring while we struggled with our tarp tent.

We got here just in time to pick a perfect place and still enjoy activities.

We strolled down Main Street and visited local shops. I didn't have my camera to take pictures, garsh darn it. We walked around to the other side of the park.

There were Kid games & foot races hosted by Habitat for Humanity.

After there was Music by the band Johnny Anonymous & later the band Gypsy Juke Rockers. We could hear the music on the other side of the lake.
Mr. B stayed to take care of our fort.

FAR...

NEAR...

I'm so glad my kids aren't bashful, they got right in there and participated. Here Ayla is getting read for a relay. I wish I recorded it.

Carly, my niece wasn't to happy with Ayla. Ayla just stood there with her hands cupped. She didn't know she had to try to catch the water balloon.

So they lost at the first toss.

The girls were ready to go back to the fort, after we had snow cones. We bought a big bag of kettle corn as well. Earlier we ate brisket sandwiches or tacos. When we came back we ate hamburgers and hot dogs. We also made...

Can you guess?

Why S'mores of course!

We wrapped the graham crackers with a chocolate squares and marshmallow, in foil. Mr. B warmed it in the grill, and voila! The marshmallow is not burned and melts with the chocolate just right. Christian my nephew loved it.

Mr B doesn't like sweets, he wasn't to sure if he would like it,

"S'ta loca" (your crazy) he said as I took the before and after his sample.

Hey Mikey! He liked it!

Soon it was dusk and we took our tarps down.

The girls kept munching on food.

Here is my sister in law Nina and her husband Fabian.

Gosh, I hadn't noticed the park getting full of spectators.

Can you find the boys playing football among the sea of people?

Then the first firework went off. Did I tell you the fireworks were lit across from us? The reflection of the fireworks against the lake were breathtaking. The stars were bright and the sounds of the fireworks echoed in the valley.

Here is a sample of what we saw. I kept looking up and down at the reflection off the lake. The fireworks were spectacular. Non-stop fireworks for about 45min to an hour. The clip that I've included is half way through the show. I could not download the grand final. Hope you enjoyed the fourth as we did.

********************************

HAPPY BIRTHDAY USA!

Happy Fourth of July!
With many states allowing citizens to light their own firecrackers;

I hope every one has a safe holiday.

Be proud! Recite our Pledge of Allegiance. Sing our National Hymn today.

Ciao for now,

Arnnette

Pantaloonies

2009-07-04T01:43:00.000-07:00

It's been a year since I started my blog. I'm shy 100 posts by 10. I'm thinking of having a give away celebrating my 100 post / year anniversary. Technically I started it in June of 2008 but didn't really start posting until September. I still consider myself a newbie, is there such a word? I have more info on my giveaway later this month.
As I was searching other blogs around the world, for the same likes as I have, I came across Helena Boham Carter's website, Tim Burton's wife. I love Tim Burton's Production as much as I do Helena's acting. What caught my eye was her fashion.

Do you like? Oh I do, click here for her website and more fashion creations.
She has more information on how to have your own "pantaloonies", however, I don't live in England to ship off my own pants and have them created by her friend.
So, I made a mental goal of completing my projects this summer. You know like the photos and scrapbook supplies that you someday will start on. Your quilts that you want to hand stitch. The aprons that I want to sew and sell for the holidays. Closets and rooms that need rearranging. I can go on and on.
One of my projects was to create my own Pantaloon's. So here they are...

Close-Up of Edge or Trim: Pink Satin Ruffle

Modeled by my 14 year old.

Close up of Trim: White Eyelet Ruffle Modeled by my 4 year old

Close up Trim: Black in white gingham with red cherries and red rick-rack. Modeled by yours truly.
Who says the 40 year old women with junk in the trunk or a little curves,
can't look good in trendy fashion? Laugh-Out-Loud :)

So what do you think? I had fun creating.

My oldest daughter wants to sign me up on "What Not to Wear". My sister-in-law hates them. I say "This is me" my husband agrees and winks at me;)

My little models love them and my 14 year can't wait to wear them on the first day of school, they don't wear uniforms like some of the public schools around here. Although, my children go to Arts Charter School that want the children to express themselves with what they wear.

I think I'll wear my cherry Bermudas today for the Forth of July.

Ciao for now,

Arnnette

Happy Birthday to Molly

2009-07-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

Amigas Forever!

I've known Molly since 6th or 7th grade.

It's nice to know that we're still friends.

Wishing you a wonderful day full of laughter,

family and a cake to make a wish come true:)

Happy Birthday!

Ciao for now,

Arnnette

Sad Day

2009-06-25T15:45:00.001-07:00

Today two famous artists died: Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson.

Farrah was known for her 1970's television series "Charlie's Angels" at the age of 62 this morning at 9:28am. She battled cancer and fought hard. She now is with her mother and sister in heaven who battled cancer as well. As Jaclyn Smith, who was known as the other angel said, "Farrah had courage, she had strength, and she had faith. And now she has peace as she rests with the real angels."

Michael Jackson died at a Los Angeles hospital after being found unconscious and not breathing at his home. He was 50.
My parents called to tell me Michael Jackson Died. However, my husband called earlier. My mom asked, "Arnnette, are you sitting down?"

"Yes", I said. She continued to say that MJ had passed away. She thought I would cry.

I have to say I did cry for Farrah, only because of the trials she battled with cancer, to close to home.

I bet you're wondering why my mom thought I would cry for Michael Jackson?

You see, In high school I loved Michael Jackson. I had all the magazines and diaries and folders with "I Love Michael". It was 1984, my parents were reading the paper when I screamed hysterically, and they could not get me to stop crying. When I finally calmed down, I showed them the paper with Michael all bandaged up from an accident that happened while filming a Pepsi commercial.

hm mm, maybe this is why I don't drink Pepsi and Only Coke is allowed in my house and the dining room decorated with Coke products. I don't think so but it's been so long, no, Pepsi gives me bad headaches and an after taste that makes me nauseous so, no it can't be due to the accident. I'm rambling again.

Anyways, my parents were mad because I was screaming like a crazy teenager. They thought I over reacted. I got in trouble for crying over michael when I should be crying over my grades or the current wars going on in the world.

My friend Diane S. understood my feelings, because apart from me being his big fan, Diane was more in love with him and even went to El Paso just to see his concert and here in Phoenix!

Thus the reason my parents thought I would over react today with the news of Michael Jackson. I will miss his talent and the memories of younger Michael Jackson.

My sympathy to Farrah's Family and Michaels Family. Both can rest in peace with out their worldly battles, and may their memories continue. Here's two songs I dedicate to both, She's out of my life and Ben, which Michael sang. Ben is acturally about his pet mouse. I always cry to both.

Ciao for now,

Arnnette

A Day Short Happy Fathers Day

2009-06-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

Remember when our mothers would say, "Go Ask Your Dad". It seems now a days it's "Go Ask Your Mom" or "Go tell mom" or "You better go do your chore or your mom's going to get mad"or "mom, Mom, MoM,MOM, MAMA!"

Well yesterday or all weekend it was Dads' Day & Activities. I was going crazy because that is exactly what happened. Dad was on strike and sent the kids to me. It was Father's Day. However, we celebrated two days of father's day.

On Saturday we went to my mama's and went swimming. Well the kids did. Including my brothers Marco and Sebastian.

My grandson Leo'nel and Oscar our oldest son.

My sister Luisa and Evan, my nephew.

Luisa with her baby Olivia.

My Mama, Jinette.

Our close friend Rosanne and her boys Christopher and Jr.

My Brother In Law RJ with Olivia, my niece.

My hunk of burning love, Bayardo, Happy Fathers Day Babe! And Grandpa Mundo.

Tio Marco showing off his look a like cup. I drew my nephew on his cup, since he can't read so my brother wanted me to draw a look a like on his cup.

Notice the muscles as well? LOL.

Below are more muscles, Grandpa Mundo and Oscar grilling the corn and burgers.

Here Grandma Jinette, Grandpa Mundo Enjoy their lunch with Dorian, Evan, and Ayla.

Olivia loves the corn, so does her Tia;)

Emma our oldest daughter and her son, our grandson Leo'nel, 9 months old.

Then the next day we grilled again. Here is my Brother in Law, Kenneth, with my hunk of beefcake, Bayardo. Here they are grilling carne asada, pork ribs, & zucchini. I made two roasted chicken in the oven, Rice, & Beans. We had salad, potato salad, and marble cake with homemade whip cream frosting.

The kids are picking fresh tomatoes for the salad. From the top: Deanna, Dorian, Alexa, & Ayla.

Primas Hannah & Deanna.

Primas Ayla & Alexa.

To end this post, Happy Fathers Day to all the Dads out there who love their children and family and show it. Here's a tribute our dad, the grandpa's, the uncles with children.

Ciao for now,
Arnnette

Jack In The Box

2009-06-14T23:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, I had to post this. My 4 year old loves to sing "Yippee-Yi-Yay, Mini Sirloin Burger". I kept wondering where she got it. So I see the commercial and I think it was cute. I loved the mini cattle and mini pony's For some reason though she thought it was a Burger King commercial. So in case you have not seen it, here it is.

Then when I was watching my husbands Novela (soap opera), Yo Amo Juan, the same commercial came on in Spanish. I was laughing so hard. I don’t like banda, a form of ranch folklore music, but it fit this commercial well. I also like that the music was not the same as the English. Anyways, I love the Spanish version and looking at the mini cattle.

Ciao for now... Arnnette

Oh, What Do You Do In The Summertime?

2009-06-07T12:15:00.001-07:00

There is a song that I used to sing every summer that I learned in Primary called, "Oh, What Do You Do In the Summertime?"
Primary is Sunday school for 3-12 years old in our church. Whether or not we sang it in primary every summer, I had learned it, and I would sing it years after Primary.You can click here to hear the song. Here are the lyrics.

Oh, What Do you do in the summertime, when all the world is green?Do you fish in a stream, or lazily dream on the banks as the clouds go by Is that what you do? So do I!

Oh, What do you do in the summertime, when all the world is green?Do you swim in a pool, to keep yourself cool, or swing in a tree up high?Is that what you do? So do I!

Oh, What do you do in the summertime, when all the world is green?Do you march in parades, or drink lemonades, or count all the stars in the sky?Is that what you do? So do I!

So far this summer, or technically its not summer, however, my kids have been on summer break since May 22nd! Anyhow, So far this summer we went to a Low rider Car Show during Memorial Weekend. It was fun. We ran into my cousin Dawn and old friends. We ate all you can eat crab legs....mmmmm.

Here the girls are posing.

Dad and the boys are posing.

Oscar is in Basketball training at School & at ASU.

He's number 50 with the black t-shirt under his jersey.

Oscars littlest fan, nephew and my grandson, Leo'nel.

Hannah's an LIT (leader in training) at the Boys and Girls Clubs and has been accepted on a scholarship at the Mesa Arts Center for their Broadway class, where she'll continue to learn to sing, dance, and learn drama. She also went on a Pioneer Trek dressed in Pioneer clothing and pushed a handcart through the White Mountains of AZ to Luna NM. She left at 6am on a Wednesday Morning and came back on Saturday around 5pm. She said it rained on them and they did not sleep in tents, which is nothing compared to what the pioneers when through.

Devan and Dorian went to Boys Scouts Camp at Camp Pueblo.

We celebrated my nephews birthday.

Then on May 31st, My sister Deborah and her family came to visit from El Paso, Texas. Daniel my nephew is getting big. I miss them so much. What little time we spent and divided with Cecilio's Family, my brother-in-law, it was Awesome.
We went to Freestone Park in Gilbert.

Danny happy with his prima.
We went to San Tan Village Mall in Gilbert and the kids got wet at the outdoor playground.

Leo'nel my grandson had fun with the water...oh-oh where did the water go?

from left to right: Ayla, Leonel, Dorian, Danny watching his cousin Enlai playing in the water and deciding if he wants to get wet. Enlai's mama Lily, Chillo's Sister. Below is Claudia his baby sister. I'm not sure if she was having fun. Don't let the photo fool you, she's always smiling.

We went to Build-a-Bear and chose a new friend for Danny, Oh Mama the dog, after they got wet and dried up.

Primos, Ayla & Danny washing Oh Mama.

Danny and his new pal, Oh Mama

Dorian and Danny kick'n it watching Mall Cop.
We went to Oscars Basketball game.

Oscar playing at Basketball Camp against Perry.

More fans of Oscar, Primo Danny and Little sister Ayla. I had to take a picture of their feet.

The kids went swimming at Cecilio's family, while Bayardo and I went shopping dinner to take to the Drive-in later that evening

Devan did a head flop!

Then Dorian follow with a belly flop! Ouch!

We saw the Night of the Museum featured with X-Men:Wolverine, which was our family's 2nd time but we love his boot-ay when he jumps the waterfall, Or says my 4-year-old, so we didn't mind.

We visited Ikea, I bought a table drawing paper holder I have been wanting since March. We ate at Chipotle, and Pete's Fish N Chips. The week went so fast. It was sad to see them go.

So for the rest of the Summertime, We plan to visit the Navarro Family one weekend before school starts in August. Finish Sweep Cleaning my home and have a Yard Sale.

Note: I clean sweeped the boys room and moved the bed. Before I moved the bed I repainted the room. I went to get the camera to take a picture of the CAT logo I painted in the boys room 7yrs ago, for memories. The boys wanted to look like they were helping. Don't let this picture fool you.

We still plan to go to Payson for the Fourth of July and see the Parades and Fireworks,not to mention the stars in the sky, Have another Tea Party for Ayla's friends and cousins, go to Build and Grow at Lowe's, I've drank my Pink Lemonade, Need to teach my sons to embroider their monogram to make a throw pillow they've been wanting, and finish craft projects.
What do you do in the Summertime?
Ciao for Now, Arnnette

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-25T10:03:00.001-07:00

Wash Your Hands

2009-05-14T11:03:00.000-07:00

Note: For those of you who know my brother Marco,

I just thought I would add this look-a-like,

except for the eyebrows, I found from the web images.

Has the Swine Flu Hit you?

I work Part time at my children's school. We have not had any confirmed swine flu reported to our school. However, we have had up to 20% of the school out for respiratory and "Regular" Flu, including myself. I was out for 3 days and technically was not suppose to return to work but did. I have had my kids out one by one. So I'm Sick of being sick and everyone around me.

I just want to express to everyone, WASH YOUR HANDS, cover your mouth, all the old teachings are true! Many thought that the epidemic was a fluke and over exaggerated. However, the flu slows down in the summer. Once the season is over and it starts the Swine flu can become stronger. It seems that we are going through the second wave of the flu. Please, protect your self and others. Stock up on food and water. If the flu hits home avoid public places and rely on your supplies. Note: It's very important to wash for 20 seconds, otherwise your rinsing your hands with soap. Here are some Ad's on washing your hands.

Bee Well!
Ciao for now,
Arnnette

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

Tea Anyone?

2009-04-26T16:25:00.003-07:00

I had to plan the next Amiga's Forever Reunion.

What is the Amiga's Forever Reunion? Some how last fall in September or October, a couple of friends from our 1980's Young Women's and Young Adult years, were able to speak to one another. Have you spoken to So & So?

Then So & So knew the number to So & So, And then So & So had the number to another friend, that in December we all got together at Molly's Home.

It was so nice to see each other.

Some of us hadn't seen each other for over 20 years! Some of our friends could not make it but came to our February Reunion. Some friends, well we now have their address; communicate through email, blogs, etc. because they live across state or country!

We now meet every two months. Someone hosts the party and comes up with the next reunion at their home, restaurant, park, etc.

I had April. Since May is the month of Mothers Day, I chose a tea party at my Mama's home on the last Saturday of the month, April 25th.

Thank you Mama and Mundo for allowing me to have it at your home.

My home, well, it is small.

So off I went to antique shops and Goodwill stores for tea cup sets.

As my gift to all the guest everyone took home a tea cup for remembrance.

I bought a variety of tea cups, kinda the shabby vintage look.

Then I sterilized the cups!

Next I created the invitation. A Tea Cup Invite with "You're Invited" on one end of the 'teabag' and the information on the other end. They could use as a bookmark if they wanted and reminded of the date. The inside as well had more information a separate insert for directions to the house. Each "Amiga" was to invite one guest of honor: mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, or friend who is a mother.

On the day of My four-year-old helped me set up along with my parents.

Thank you Mama, Mundo, & Ayla:)

Mundo was was worried that no one would show up and the food would waste.

Then he was complaining that it looked like a wedding shower.

What is it with guys that they just don't understand we women and girls love to be pampered and have everything looking just right. Actually, I probably would have done with out the slipcovers on the chairs, but mama, it did look good, Thank you. Need less to say everyone came.

Ayla was upset later when she found out she couldn't attend.

Now I need to plan for a

Garden Tea Party this summer for her friends.

Here we are, The Amiga's Forever Club: L to R

Vasthy Sister, Eloina, Olibia, Carol,

Yours Truly, Molly, Vasthy, Rebecca, Cristina, Adriana, & Veronica.

Here we are with our guest of honors. I invited my sister Luisa as well, however, she felt sick and left early before we even took pictures:(

The Guest on the bottom are: L to R

Vasthy sister, Sister Mora, My Mama Jinette, Sister Lopez,

Sister Gaytan, My step dads mama; Mama Maria, & Sister Crandell

Here mother and daughter, Maly & Molly,

have a poem/sing off.

Here I am with Mama Maria. She had been sick lately and

we were lucky to have her here with us.

Here I am with my Beautiful Mama.

I took off my hat and I paid the price with my hair!

Here is Molly posing with her hat.

As well as Cristina & Rebecca,

who by the way started our reunion.

Here Molly, Cristina, & Rebecca.

Here is Las Tres Hermanas:

Veronica, Adriana, Molly

Here is Cristina with my Mama

Here is Las Dos Hermanas: Eloina and Olibia with

their Tia Gaytan

Here are two more sisters:

Vasthy on the Right with her sister.

This bugs me that I don't remember her name!

Playing games. It was a nice day. Everyone loved the tea cups and food. Each of us gave our guest of honor a gift or shared a poem. Each of us enjoyed each other's company and shared memories together.

Ciao for now,

Arnnette

Scrapbook Lovers Great Giveaways!

2009-04-13T16:18:00.000-07:00

I came across Karen's play time blog. So I decided to go through her peeks and came across Joeys Stuff(Joanne). In Joey's blog I came across FOUR GIVEAWAYS! Caroles gorgeous candy until the 14th of April, Claire's gorgeous candy until 18th April, http://stampedsmiles.blogspot.com/, Jodi's Awesome Candy! until 19th April & Aija's candy until April 17th..
Here's a peek at the candy:

Confused which set of goodies goes with who? That's where you have to check out each funfilled blog and check out their creativity.Goodluck!
Ciao for now,
Arnnette

Welcome April!

2009-04-01T23:00:00.001-07:00

Today is my Cousin Leonardo's Birthday! Happy Birthday Primo!

Spring Poem

2009-03-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

I haven't really been posting much. However, I wanted to share this Springtime Poem from Mrs. CF Alexander. The artwork is by Tasha Tudor. I spoke of Ms. Tudor a few blogs ago, click here.
I love spring as much as I love Fall. So Maybe I'll post a few spring photos I like as I come across them.
Ciao for Now,
Arnnette

I need to post Friday Favorite Book

Pioneer Woman

2009-03-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

I'll be posting this weekend. However, I had to let you in on this giveaway from Ree at Confessions of a Pioneer Woman. But you have to comment on What your Plans are for this Weekend.
I love these measuring cups from Anthropologie, Your choice. That is if your chosen.

Photos are by Pioneer Woman.
Ciao for Now, and good luck,
Arnnette

How does your garden grow?

2009-03-16T09:41:00.001-07:00

I have a small home with a small yard. Really,really small yard. So like many, with small yards, you think you can't grow a garden. Well come and see a real quick tour of mine.
These are my tomatoes both Roma and Beefstake.

This is the cinnamon basil growing amongst the white onions in the tub.

This is my Aloe Vera plant who with its gorgeous spring blossoms, brings color to the desert and my garden. The humming birds love the nector.

This my red pepper plant in a pot.

My Flowers and Fairies who made themselves at home.

For the next hour or two depending what time zone your at, Ree Drummond, "The Pioneer Woman" is giving away (4) $250.00 gift cards to my favorite; along with Walmart, Kohls, Home Goods,Ikea, and Desert Book, store Lowes:Lets build something together!

Hurry and leave a comment for her under home and garden or click on my blue bug button. Good Luck!
Ciao for now,
Arnnette

IKEA

2009-03-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

What does these photo have in common?

Its the stuff I want to buy and more, but I can't make up my mind at

Emma, my oldest, has told me she is taking me out for my birthday tomorrow. So off to IKEA we'll go. ooh! I cannot decide what I want and eat. I've never shopped there less than 3-4 hours at a time. It's so Big!

Happy Birthday Baby Brother

2009-03-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

My baby brother turns 21 years old today.
Joshua Kyle Everett Ayala,
those dang latinos with the long names.

Joshua lives in Kentucky with my other brothers. Joshua and I didn't grow up together but like the saying goes, Blood's thicker than water, and when one's in trouble Best to seek out a relative's open arms. What better relative than your oldest sisters and brothers? Joshua is only a year and a half older than my oldest daughter, Emma. To think that when he turned two years old, he was an uncle with a 6 month niece. I do know that Joshua loves his family and using his mind and figuring out things. At 21, what do we know? My wish is that you find who you are and trust in our Heavenly Father and in Jesus, Mijo. You know how to choose the right. I've made lot's of choices in my life that I wish I went with my first prompt and not question it. But let me tell you, that's how we learn. We love you Josh!
click here for your Birthday song.
Ayla wants to include her song to you.
Click here for your Birthday song from her.
Ciao for now,
Arnnette