mese and anna ugapo

2010-06-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

LONG TIME, NO POST

2010-06-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

HELLO EVERYONE. IT IS PRACTICALLY A MIRACLE THAT I AM BLOGGING RIGHT NOW. IT HAS BEEN OVER SIX MONTHS SINCE MESE OR I HAVE POSTED ANYTHING. I AM JUST SO GRATEFUL THAT LIFE HAS SLOWED DOWN JUST A TINY BIT SO THAT I CAN TAKE A MINUTE AND BLOG. WE ARE DOING WONDERFUL. LIFE HAS HAD IT'S UPS AND DOWNS. WE STRUGGLE THROUGH THE HARD TIMES, BUT LUCKILY WE COME OUT STRONGER IN THE END. WE JUST GOT BACK FROM OUR FIRST VACATION SINCE WE TOOK OVER THE RESTAURANT. WE WENT TO UTAH FOR MY LITTLE SISTER'S SEALING AND DECIDED TO EXTEND THE TRIP A LITTLE SO WE COULD STAY AND VISIT FRIENDS AND FAMILY THAT WE HARDLY EVER GET TO SEE. WE HAD A BLAST AND LUCKILY THE KIDS DIDN'T DO TOO BAD ON THE DRIVE. THEY ARE GROWING TOO FAST. WE ARE STILL ENJOYING THE SANDWICH STOPPE. WE RECENTLY HIRED MY SISTER-IN-LAW, CARRIE, AND IT IS PROVING TO BE THE BEST MOVE WE HAVE MADE SO FAR. SHE IS AWESOME. WE LOVE YOU CARRIE. ME, MOST ESPECIALLY, BECAUSE I GET TO STAY HOME WITH THE KIDS FOR GOOD NOW. VERY MUCH LOOKING FORWARD TO FINISHING THE RENOVATIONS ON THE RESTAURANT AND GETTING A COUPLE OF BEACH TRIPS IN THIS SUMMER.

The times we live in

2009-10-06T14:46:00.000-07:00

My mother Caroline Ainuu lives in Samoa which was recently hit by an earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Already saddened by the destruction surrounding her, she has just lost her husband and is alone and in need of help. She was born in Western Samoa and now resides in American Samoa. She is not a citizen of the U.S. and has had difficulties trying to return to California to be with her children and see her grandchildren that she has yet to meet.

She is alone and without means to support herself and with the island in shambles the potential of finding a job is slim. We ask for all of our friends and family and anyone else who might read this post to please offer prayers on her behalf. We need to get her to California so that we (her children) can take care of her. Life is truly unpredictable. This experience has taught me that truth. There is only one constant in life and that is the everlasting truth and comfort that comes from living the Gospel of our Savior. If any of you know of anyone who might be able to help us in this predicament please let us know. Thank you.

THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS

2009-09-30T07:17:00.000-07:00

Last night in the middle of me saying my prayers there was a loud knock on the door. It scared me really bad. Mese opened the door to find a very generous, anonymous gift on our doorstep. This post is intended to say the biggest thank you ever to whoever it was that gave the gift. Words cannot express our gratitude for the love we felt just knowing how much someone cares about us. I was bawling like a baby because of the overwhelming amount of love and gratitude I felt to have such wonderful people in our lives. You know who you are and you need to know that we love you and are so thankful for your generosity. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

The Sandwich Stoppe: life is crazy

2009-08-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

Well, today marks the end of our fourth week at The Sandwich Stoppe. Life is getting into a little bit of a regular routine, but it still feels very crazy and busy. I am a working mom, which I never wanted to be, but it is nice to have a little break from the kids. Some days I do wish I could just stay home and hold my baby or take my kids to the park and clean my house. It helps that they have a great baby sitter. Every time we are driving home from any where Mason always starts saying "Mom, Vivian coming? Vivian coming?" Thanks Vivian. And thank you to all our friends and family who have stopped by to visit and eat. We appreciate your support and your business. The weekend of Nia's wedding we had a record breaking day. We broke the previous owner's record for daily sales in our first month. I think it has a lot to do with the new window signs we put up too. We need to do even more advertising so if anyone has any ideas about cheap ways to do that let us know. Things are going well and we are excited to start our second month. Hope to see you all again and we hope everyone is doing well.

The Sandwich Stoppe

2009-07-30T14:56:00.000-07:00

A lot of our friends and family have heard that we are buying The Sandwich Stoppe restaurant in Beaumont, but this post is just to let everyone else who hasn't heard, yet, that we are officially taking over on August first. We are closed on weekends, for now, though, so, technically we start business on Monday, August third. We are so excited. This has been one of Mese's life-long dreams to own a restaurant. Please come by and visit us. Our hours are Mon.-Fri. 9 am to 4 pm. The food there is great and we have big plans for redecorating and for spicing up the menu a little too. We have been so blessed to be able to do this. A big thanks to the Markwith family for their generosity too. Like I said it would be great to have everyone stop by for a bite. We have put everything we have into this and even some we don't have so we need all the business we can get for these first couple of months. Come in and tell us what you think. We are open to all kinds of suggestions for the menu and the ambiance. We look forward to seeing you. Wish us luck.

Howdy

2009-06-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time. I got to have a little vacation when I went to our family's annual women's retreat so I am taking a while to get back into the swing of life. Thanks, by the way, to Vivian, Siona, and Kathleen who helped out while I was gone. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. Life has been strange with Mese working a night shift. We are starting to get used to it, but it is hard on him when he misses out on all the social activities and I am sad that I have missed out on some "girls nights" because my baby-sitter is working. I love you, honey. Our little Gwenny brings so much joy to our home. She is by far my best baby. She is so sweet and quiet and thoughtful. We have been doing a lot of catering and I can take her with me to the events and she just sits in her chair and smiles, for the most part. She only cries when she needs something and she is so smiley right now. I love them at three months old. We finally got a new camera so here are a bunch of new pictures to make up for the lack of pictures these last few months. We are happy and doing well and hope everyone else is the same.

Birthday Surprise

2009-04-22T22:06:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to write a little message to my husband and all of my wonderful friends and family who came to the surprise party for me. It was my first surprise birthday party and it was so much fun. I am so proud of Mese for doing such a good job of keeping it secret. We usually cannot keep anything secret from each other. I never suspected a thing. It was almost a week after my actual birthday and I think it was only planned a few days prior, but it was great and I felt so special and so loved and appreciated by my husband. He is so wonderful. He cooked an amazing meal of grilled flatbread sandwiches with yummy salads. Thanks again to everyone and especially to Shawn and Darcy for letting us use their house. I love you all, but especially you, Mese.

Finally, Pictures of the New Baby

2009-03-27T13:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of baby Gwenyth Lynnae Ugapo. Born March 3rd. 7lbs. 5 oz. 20 inches long. Some are from when we were in the hospital, but there are some more recent ones also. We think she is pretty cute. We're gonna keep her.

Molten Chocolate Cake Recipe....Heaven on a Plate

2009-03-01T22:20:00.000-08:00

A few of you have asked me to post this recipe so here it is. Good luck trying not to make it once a week. It is soooooo yummy and soooooo easy. Warm gooey chocolate is one of the best things in the world. And please eat it with ice cream. It is way better with ice cream.

Prep: 15 min. / Total: 29 min.

4 squares Baker's semi- sweet baking chocolate ( I just use 4 oz. of good dark chocolate, bittersweet is the best, in my opinion.)
1/2 cup butter
1 cup powdered sugar
2 eggs
2 egg yolks
6 Tbsp. flour
1/2 cup whipped topping (or Ice cream)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Butter 4 (3/4 cup) souffle dishes. Place on baking sheet.

Microwave chocolate and butter in large microwavable bowl on HIGH for 1 minute or until butter is melted. Stir with wire whisk until chocolate is completely melted. Stir in sugar until well blended. Whisk in eggs and egg yolks. Stir in flour. Divide batter between prepared souffle cups.
Bake 13-14 minutes or until sides are firm, but centers are soft. Let stand 1 min. Carefully run a small knife around cakes to loosen. Invert cakes onto dessert dishes. Top with 1 tbspn. of whipped topping and serve immediately.

Enjoy!

Nothing New

2009-02-18T15:59:00.000-08:00

This post is kinda pointless because I really don't have anything new to write about. I just felt like I hadn't posted in a long time. I will hopefully have some fun news of the arrival of our new baby girl in the next couple of weeks. I am so done being pregnant. I just want her to be here already. Oh, I did get my hair done. I am back to blonde. It's pretty fun looking in the mirror and seeing myself as a blonde. I feel younger. Sorry I don't have a picture to put up. We are without a camera, but are looking to get one before the baby comes.

Never Judge a Book By It's Cover.

2009-01-27T09:57:00.000-08:00

Look at this man. Yes I said 'MAN'. What do you notice about him? I see sloppy red hair and freckles. Looks like a teen who never quite grew out of the awkward stage. He is the epitome of geekiness. Or maybe that's his allure. He is Brett Dennen.

Having been home taught his whole life by his parents afforded him the opportunity to hone his musical and songwriting skills. The same skills that would one day help him to create such beautiful (and subtly sexy) songs including "Ain't Gonna Lose You", a haunting one - sided tale of a man struggling to hold on to the the ever fraying thread that holds him and his love together. His work has helped him to be considered a musical genius by many including the folks over at Rolling Stone.

Then there's that voice. That voice. It's like the audio equivalent of introducing a new and delicious taste to your tongue that lingers comfortably, well after the meal has ended. There is a soulfulness to it and a confidence in his ability that would make you believe what he's saying. He does dabble in the political realm but manages to get his message across without being overbearing.

One evening a few years back, while playing a local venue, another musical genius happened upon that particular show and after being completely immersed in Brett's music, he invited Brett to join him on tour for a few shows. The new fan's name? John. Last name, Mayer.

I specified the word 'man' earlier because it was difficult for me to believe that this baby faced song wizard is 30 years old. Does he look 30 to you? Honestly he looks like an ugly 16 year old girl, but his music is beautiful which makes him beautiful. He is amazing and pleasantly surprising on many different levels. Anyway I have added a couple of his songs to my music player below (#'s 1 & 2). Enjoy the musical offerings of Brett Dennen.

Potty Training Sucess

2009-01-22T20:41:00.000-08:00

I hope I'm not speaking too soon, but we have had three days in a row with very successful potty training with Marlowe. She has had a few accidents, luckily, for me, the one who has to clean up the mess, it's only been #1. Today she actually started telling me that she had to go rather than me taking her every hour or so. She even did #2 on the potty during one of those times when she told me she had to go. This is probably way too much info., but I can't help it. I am so excited. I started training her at 18 months and I so hope she sticks with it this time so I don't have to deal with 3 kids in diapers when baby Gweny comes. I'm sure some of you out there know how I feel.

A special thanks to Daddy, also, who got involved and caused the success we are having.

The most unlikely knitter of all

2008-12-28T07:01:00.000-08:00

It has been a while since I last wrote. I guess I feel like I haven't had anything worthy of writing about, until now. I wish I had a picture to go with this post because some of you may not believe what I am about to tell you without proof.

So, we spent Christmas Eve with Mese's family and we were up pretty late. We came home and put the kids to bed and then stayed up even later setting up the toys we had bought for them. Marlowe, despite going to bed late, woke us up at six, as usual. We were very tired. We went to my parents to spend most of Christmas day with my family. We did the usual routine of eating a big breakfast while all the kids played with what Santa Claus brought and then we all opened gifts from eachother. It was a great day. We all loved all our gifts and just spending time with eachother and sharing memories of Christmases in the past. The day was kind of winding down. My kids were very tired. They needed their nap and so did we. All the men in the family decided to go to a movie. My husband was the only one who decided not to go. He said it would be a waste of money because he would just fall asleep in the theater. He stayed home with all us girls. I was sure he was going to want to get going soon. We usually go back to his family's house around 5 p.m. We had talked about leaving soon so I went to go say goodbye to my sisters. I got caught up talking to them for a while and I was wondering why Mese hadn't come to get me going. I went to go see what he was doing and you can imagine my shock, amazement, and my delight when I found him sitting with my sister, Julia, and my nieces, KNITTING.

He has never knit before. Julia, as a gift to all the nieces, decided to teach them how to knit. I guess Mese grabbed the needles and yarn and pretended he was knitting just to be funny and then Julia started to teach him how to do it for real. He sat there and knitted for a while and then took a break. We all sat around visiting some more. So, he picked up the yarn and needles and decided to keep going. This time he didn't stop for an hour and a half. I'm not kidding. All of us girls just kept visiting, but every fifteen minutes or so one of us would stop and say, discretely, "look, he is still knitting!" We were amazed. I have to say that I found it very cute and sexy. My husband is so confident in his manhood that he can knit and not be ashamed. Well, he may have been a little ashamed because the next day when we went to Wal-Mart to buy him his own needles and yarn he kept claiming they were for me any time some one would walk by. We did buy some for me too and that night he taught me how to knit. It is really cool. I have always wanted to learn to knit, but I never thought that the person who would teach me would be my husband. I love it, though. We just sit there and knit together.

He never ceases to amaze me. Some day you'll hopefully get to see the scarfs we are making or even witness the knitting in action. I love you, Mese.

The war continues...

2008-12-08T12:01:00.000-08:00

So as many of my friends and family know (unless you are blind) I am fat.

I have literally been trying to lose weight for the past, oh I don't know, 15 years or so. I have weighed as much as 402 lbs and as low as 230 lbs in my adult life, the latter of the two being while I was on my mission in Guatemala where hygiene was a revolutionary idea and parasites were plentiful.

A few months ago I had a little scare from my doctor when she put it so tenderly as only a medical professional could, when she asked me, " Do you want to die?!". It was hard for me not to laugh for a couple of reasons: When faced with the reality of your potential end of mortality, what else can you do but laugh at the fact that (in my case) you put yourself in this situation AND her heavy, almost incomprehensible East Indian accent. Not that accents are funny but hers was. Ah, the irony. Food, although necessary to ensure the proper function of the body's organs and to sustain life, when abused can kill you. Food, you so crazy!

I have high blood pressure and have now been on medication for the past two months. I have started to exercise and eat better and am now down to 369 lbs. I have been newly re-inspired by the hard work and dedication shown by my friend Brad Naef who has lost 100 lbs. Woot, woot Brad. My blood pressure is now on the road to Normalville and I plan on dropping him off there for good. The good news is my cholesterol, blood sugar and triglycerides are at normal levels which is a surprise to me because um, I'm fat. So there is the trade off: My arteries are clear for blood flow but my heart can still explode at any moment causing a sudden and oh so final death. So, my reason for writing is this: I want you to know that I am dedicated to changing my life in every aspect. I will more than likely see most of you who will read this at least a few times a week. I want you as my friends to check up on my progress. Ask me how I'm doing. Keep me honest and in line in other words. And when you have something yummy at your house for dinner and I'm over don't feel like you have to adjust anything for me. I will adjust for you. I have set a few weight loss and personal goals for September and December of next year and I will reach them, with your help it will be easier. Thanking you in advance, Mese.

At my biggest 400+ lbs.

And on my mission in Guatemala. Now this picture is awesome for a couple of reasons. #1, I'm extremely thin and dark and my hair is nappy. #2, How did I lose weight? Look at that cow! My food is literally starving! Don't forget to check out the ruins in the back.

26 Days To Go

2008-11-29T09:20:00.000-08:00

We have changed our background in honor of the upcoming holiday. You like? I like. Being that the holiday season is a time where we reflect on things we are thankful for and gifts in general I am always forced to consider the gifts that I treasure in my life. As is the tradition this time of year I will be naming them in the form of a list:

1. Knowledge of the truth

2. Knowledge that Christ was made a sacrifice so that I could be saved from myself.

3. The right to choose to be optimistic in a world filled with trials and the ease of pessimism.

4. Knowledge that Heavenly Father loved me so much that he allowed me to meet and marry Anna Marie Nancy Knapp even though I will have to work until the day after forever ends to repay him. She is a saint. I mean that with all of my heart. I don't know anyone with a greater capacity to love and forgive on all this earth. She deserves more than what I am but Heavenly Father in all of his wisdom knew how much I needed her and will ultimately be able to justify the multitudes of blessings she will receive for having been my eternal companion. I love you.

5. Marlowe for making me a Daddy and for giving me good sense and proper perspective.

6. Little Mason for helping me to want to try to be more patient.

7. The BANNING BOYS.

8. Life's challenges including (even especially) those that were completely avoidable...or in other words those challenges that I brought on myself.

9. ALL of you. If you're reading this post it's because our paths have crossed and somewhere along the way we decided to stay in touch. Thank you for being our friends. And finally...

10. Chili Dogs. Don't laugh. It's not funny. On Black Friday Mason, Randy and myself left at 4:45 am to check out the day after Thanksgiving sales at Wal Mart. I mentioned that Anna had told me that Wienerschnitzel would be opened at 5 am. We laughed. I joked, "Who would eat a chili dog that early?". Me, I guess. I didn't even know that I needed it but I could not get the thought of a chili dog out of my head. I was going to sneak over to get one when Randy pointed out that he couldn't find Mason. We walked to the van and he wasn't there either. We turned towards Wienerschnitzel and I felt a tear starting to form in my eye. For there was my faithful friend Mason in his XXXL red and white striped shirt that could have camouflaged 500 Where's Waldos, sipping on a large diet coke and waiting for his pastrami dog. We were brothers in hot dogs that morning. I joined him and ordered a chili dog, no cheese extra mustard and washed it down with a lemonade and Pepsi cocktail. Some moments bond people for life. This was not one of them. It was just funny that we ate hot dogs so early. The end.

TAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG! You're it. Let us know what 10 things you are grateful for.

Our Blog Page Just Got a Whole Lot More Entertaining

2008-11-27T06:32:00.000-08:00

So, as most of you can see, my husband has been posting some messages on my page. At first it was just temporary because he had a few things that he felt would get looked at more on my page that he wanted to share with as many people as he could. Well, the good news is.....he has decided to officially join forces and just have one blog between the two of us. His old page is no more. You will know he is posting by all the comedy or lots of great music and such. I will most likely be posting about the usual: kids, family, and life. Like I said, his will probably be a lot more entertaining than mine. If you need a good laugh please check out the post just previous to this one. I was cracking up, almost crying, and it's only 6 am.

Speechless...

2008-11-26T10:53:00.000-08:00

Is what you'll be after you view this. There truly are no words. Please share your thoughts.

On the other hand...

2008-11-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the misleading words in my last post. To make up for it I thought that I would introduce you guys to someone on the extreme opposite end of the musical spectrum as our Korean friend. If any of you don't know this about me I am very passionate about music. Good music rather. I define good music as anything that is pleasing to YOU. Great music however should transport you from where you are listening to a place of elation and melodic bliss. Anything well structured with a creative rhyme scheme on top of a jazz chord or two usually does it for me. Two words: Mario Biondi. His voice is amazing. His voice is deep. Deep as in profound and also as in low. He makes Barry White sound like Michael Jackson. He's an Italian from Parma and sings in English regularly. This one might actually change your life...musically anyway.

Life will never be the same...

2008-11-08T11:33:00.000-08:00

No tricks this time. This is Mese. We live in a day where a multitude of technological advancements afford us the opportunity to share experiences faster than ever. Something extraordinary happens at 2:00 and a friend on the other side of the world can know about it by 2:05. I have been lucky enough to have experienced something that has literally changed my perspective on life and now I feel a profound urgency to share it with the people that I love. Please watch this video as I am sure that it will burn into your core and you will NEVER EVER be the same. Please share your experiences with us as way of thanks for you will be grateful for having seen it.

Halloween and Homemade Costumes

2008-11-05T20:52:00.000-08:00

This year for Halloween, we were forced by a lack of funds to get very creative with costumes. Marlowe and Mason dressed up as Dora and Diego. I had fun studying exactly what they wore and what color their clothes were. Using our local thrift stores, Wal-Mart, pieces of costumes from past Halloweens, and some paper and a marker, we were able to come up with everything we needed for about ten bucks. Mese's costume, Mr. T, which he came up with the morning of, was a huge hit at the family Halloween party. Somehow he always does that. Every year he has no idea what he is going to be, but at the last minute he comes up with something amazing. His costume was very budget friendly too and, yes, that is his real hair. It was a lot of fun. Thank you Darcy Patterson for the pictures.

Crib Wanted

2008-10-29T13:57:00.000-07:00

I am looking for a crib. I keep checking all the thrift stores and the D.I. because we can't afford a brand new one right now, but I haven't had much luck. I was given one way back when I found out I was having Marlowe, but it was put in storage and now we can not find any of the hardware for it. Can't remember where I put it. Anyway, I thought I would just put it out there so that if anyone knows of one, let us know and we can make an offer, or something. Thanks for your help.

The New Nursery Leaders

2008-10-13T21:13:00.000-07:00

As of three weeks ago Mese and I are the new nursery leaders for the senior nursery in the Banning ward. I know to some it may seem like the worst calling in the world and, I admit, for a few moments I had some hesitation. We were called the same week that our son, Mason, turned 18 months. I had been waiting for that week to come for about four months. I just wanted to be able to get some spiritual uplifting out of sunday school and relief society again. But, not much to my surprise, I have been spiritually uplifted so much more than I ever expected to be in the last two weeks that we have been with these beautiful children. I love being with them. Just their smiles seem to make my heart burst. It's nice for me to see that they are enjoying what we are doing. I feel successful. The little lessons are so simple and basic, but that almost makes them that much more powerful. I kinda wish it could all be that simple.
I love working with my husband. It helps me to see him in a whole new light to see him get down on these kid's level and play with and love them. Of course, I get to see him do it at home with our kids all the time, but there's just something so touching to see it with kids other than his own. I'm not surprised, just reminded how wonderful he is and why I love him so much. He is so excited to learn the songs that go along with each lesson on his guitar and to play and sing them each week. The kids looooove it.
I love our new calling. I love serving and teaching and being taught by your kids each week. They are such a joy. I see even more clearly now why Jesus said we should "become as a little child."

My wonderful, talented, and amazing husband...

2008-10-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

This post is so that every one of my friends and anyone else who happens to stumble upon this page for whatever reason, will know that I am married to the most wonderful man in the world or at least in the city of Banning on the north west corner of the Lamp Lighter Apartments. We have made an agreement that if he would cook all of our meals, I would clean. He was quick to jump at that offer - quick like a stallion. Speaking of stallions he is probably as strong as a stallion. He is so talented too... Okay. This is Mese. The real reason behind me commandeering my wife's blog is to let YOU know that I have updated and completely made over my blog. CHECK IT OUT HERE!!! Oh, and by the way, I AM as strong as a stallion FYI.

Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert

2008-09-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday my wonderful husband worked a twelve hour shift that made it so he didn't get home until 11:30 p.m. He, of course, stayed up to watch the premier of "The Office," so he didn't get to bed until 1 a.m. He had the next day off and I assumed he would sleep in until noon. Much to my surprise he was up at 8:30. He gets on the computer and the next thing I know he tells me to get the kids ready because he has a little surprise for us. My husband is the king of surprises. He loves them. But they usually involve food. Something he loves. So, you can imagine my surprise when he drove us to the Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert. We had so much fun. Our kids are even a little young for most of the stuff, but they still had a blast. Marlowe's favorite activity was painting the Volkswagon Bug. Yep, a real car. She also enjoyed the laser harp, the grocery store and dressing up upstairs in the attic. Mason loved the "tots" center where he rode on a real police motorcycle and spent 15 minutes pounding nails with a hammer. I had a blast just watching the kids and Mese was just happy to see all of us so happy and pleased with his surprise. Of course, I forgot the camera. Such a bummer.

THREE BATHS IN ONE DAY!!

2008-09-27T08:21:00.000-07:00

WEDNESDAY MORNING THE KIDS HAD A BATH AS USUAL, THEN AFTER MARLOWE WOKE UP FROM HER NAP SHE REMEMBERED THAT DADDY SAID WE MIGHT GO SWIMMING SO SHE BEGGED AND BEGGED TO GO SWIMMING. SHE IS PERSISTENT. FINALLY SHE BROUGHT OUT HER BATHING SUIT AND ASKED AGAIN AND AT THAT POINT I FELT BAD SO I SAID "LET'S GO SWIMMING IN THE BATH TUB." WE PUT HER SUIT ON AND SHE AND MASON PLAYED IN THE TUB FOR ABOUT 45 MINUTES. I THINK THAT'S THE LONGEST THEY HAVE EVER STAYED IN THE BATH. LATER THAT NIGHT, ABOUT AN HOUR BEFORE BED TIME, I SUGGESTED WE GO PLAY OUTSIDE FOR A LITTLE WHILE BECAUSE IT FELT LIKE ALL WE DID, BESIDES THE BATH, WAS WATCH T.V. THAT DAY. WE NEEDED SOME FRESH AIR. WELL, THERE IS A BROKEN SPRINKLER RIGHT OUTSIDE OUR APARTMENT THAT LEAKS AND CREATES MUD. THAT IS USUALLY THE FIRST PLACE MASON GOES AND THIS TIME WAS NO EXCEPTION. AFTER A WHILE OF TRYING TO KEEP THEM OUT OF IT, MASON FELL IN IT AND I JUST GAVE UP. THEY HAD A GREAT TIME PLAYING IN THE MUD. MY KIDS LOVE TO PLAY IN THE DIRT. EVEN MARLOWE. SHE LIKES IT MORE THAN MASON. BATHS ARE KIND OF A LOT OF WORK. I HOPE I NEVER HAVE TO DO THREE IN ONE DAY AGAIN.

Marlowe and Mason Will Have a Baby Sister

2008-09-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quick blog to confirm what we had been thinking. I had my ultra sound today and the doctor was 99% positive that it is a girl. We are so excited. I am happy that my Mason will remain my only little boy, for now. I have a huge crush on him. I think he will adjust to a girl better than a boy. He is kinda a mama's boy. I am hoping he grows out of that a little before baby sister comes. Oh, and Doctor Yoo says he is staying with March 7th as the due date. So that would make me only about 17 weeks along. Oh well. For now we are excited to start bonding with this baby girl and calling her by name. It already seems more real now. Girls:3, Boys:2.

The Backseat Singer

2008-09-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

A friend and I were just laughing about how easily kids are amused. They get so excited about the littlest things. But yesterday I realized that I am also very easily amused by the little things my kids do. I guess it is a proud parent thing, but it is just so fun to watch what new things they learn and the new things they can do.
Mese and I tend to keep the same c.d. playing in the van for weeks at a time. We have had this one compilation in there for about a month now and yesterday as we were driving home from Drew's birthday party Marlowe's favorite, the "guitar song", came on again. This time, to our surprise, she was singing along. It was sooooooo cute. We didn't know she had learned almost all the words to the chorus. Mese and I just kept looking at each other and giggling. We would slowly and subtly turn the volume down so we could hear her more clearly and we played the song over and over again. We just kept smiling and giggling. I know it doesn't sound like that big of a deal. I'm sure all kids do this, but, like I said, it is so fun when it is your own kid and you get to watch every little moment. It is very exciting.

GEELA Give Away

2008-09-16T08:24:00.000-07:00

To all my fellow mothers and anyone who knows a mommy I just want to tell you about a give away my sister's company is doing. She makes baby slings, breastfeeding covers, and a bunch of other stuff. You can check it all out on their blog, plus you can enter to win one of two forty dollar gift certificates they are giving away. but you have to hurry. The last day is tomorrow. All you have to do is click on "julia's baby creations" under my friends list. The first post you see is called "Stephmodo Giveaway" and you can click on the link with the word "here." All you have to do is post a comment and you are automatically entered in the give away. Good luck.

It MIGHT be another girl

2008-09-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a really long time since I have updated my blog. I apologize. This pregnancy has been kinda rough. But I am starting to feel a little bit better, luckily. I had a doctor's appointment yesterday and my doctor does an ultrasound every time I go. This time I told him that if he thinks he sees the sex of the baby to let me know a.s.a.p. He said right now, if he had to guess, he thinks it is a girl, but that he would give me a much more accurate opinion when I go back for my "full" ultrasound. I am looking forward to that because I am still not exactly sure of my due date. It keeps going up and down according to the measurements he takes of the baby when he does these ultrasounds. Kinda frustrating. I never know exactly how far along I am. But for now I am sticking with the due date that is furthest away, March 7th, because I don't want to get my hopes up too soon. Marlowe came ten days late and I hated the frustration of having a due date that was too early. I went back and started looking at pictures of my first baby girl and I am getting excited, but trying not to get too attached to the idea that it is a girl. I have heard a lot of stories of people being told it is a girl and then it turns into a boy. You know what I mean. Any way, these are some of the pictures. They grow up too fast.

I'M SEEING DOUBLE

2008-06-29T17:22:00.000-07:00

SATURDAY MORNING AT ABOUT FOUR IN THE MORNING I GOT UP TO USE THE BATHROOM AND I DECIDED IT WOULD BE A GOOD TIME TO TAKE A PREGNANCY TEST SINCE I AM ABOUT TWO WEEKS LATE. AFTER A MINUTE OR TWO I LOOKED AT THE TEST AND SURE ENOUGH I SAW THE DOUBLE PINK LINES. I AM PREGNANT. I HAVE NOT GONE TO THE DOCTOR YET, BUT I AM PRETTY SURE I AM PREGNANT. WE KINDA PLANNED IT, BUT NOW THAT IT IS REAL I KINDA THINK WE ARE CRAZY. IF MY CALCULATIONS ARE CORRECT, MARLOWE WON'T EVEN BE THREE YET WHEN THIS BABY IS BORN. IT WILL BE FUN, THOUGH. THREE KIDS IN THREE YEARS. YEP, WE ARE CRAZY. MASON IS GONNA BE A BIG BROTHER. HE'S NOT MY BABY ANY MORE.

HAPPY FOUR YEAR ANNIVERSARY TO US!!

2008-06-29T16:49:00.001-07:00

JUNE 25TH OF THIS YEAR MARKED OUR 4 YEAR ANNIVERSARY. MAY I JUST SAY THAT MY HUSBAND IS THE BEST. I AM GOING TO BE DOING A LITTLE BRAGGING ABOUT HIM. HE WENT ALL OUT AND GAVE ME A WONDERFUL ANNIVERSARY GIFT. HE TOLD ME ABOUT TWO WEEKS PRIOR THAT HE ARRANGED FOR US TO STAY IN THE AGUA CALIENTE HOTEL IN RANCHO MIRAGE. 3 DAYS AND 2 NIGHTS. HE EVEN ARRANGED THE BABY-SITTER AND EVERYTHING. I AM SO PROUD OF HIM. SO, AFTER TWO LONG WEEKS FILLED WITH ANTICIPATION PASSED BY, OUR ANNIVERSARY FINALLY CAME AND HE MADE A WHOLE DAY OF IT. ON TOP OF THE HOTEL TRIP HE TOOK ME SHOPPING AT THE CABAZON OUTLET MALL. HE BOUGHT ME THE LOVELY OUTFIT PICTURED ABOVE ALONG WITH A FEW OTHERS AND HE TOOK ME INTO A SHOE STORE AND MADE ME SIT THERE WHILE HE PROCEEDED TO BRING ME PAIR AFTER PAIR OF SHOES THAT HE THOUGHT I WOULD LIKE AND THAT WOULD LOOK GOOD ON ME. WE FINALLY DECIDED ON THIS LOVELY RED PAIR. I JUST LOVE RED SHOES. I FEEL SO FEMININE IN THEM. NORMALLY I WOULD NEVER SPEND $40.00 ON A PAIR OF SHOES. I KNOW THAT PROBABLY SOUNDS LIKE PENNIES TO SOME, BUT I AM A VERY THRIFTY GIRL, USUALLY. IT WAS FUN TO LET HIM SPOIL ME. I FELT LIKE A PRINCESS. TO TOP IT OFF WE WENT TO THE GODIVA CHOCOLATE STORE AND INDULGED IN THE MOST DELICIOUS CHOCOLATE DIPPED STRAWBERRIES I HAVE EVER TASTED. THE HOTEL WAS BEAUTIFUL. A FLAT SCREEN HD T.V. NOT ONLY COMES IN THE ROOM, BUT IN THE BATHROOM AS WELL. THE TUB WAS HUGE. THE BED WAS SOOOOOO COMFORTABLE. WE SWAM IN THE BEAUTIFUL POOL AND ATE WAY TOO MUCH AT THE BUFFET TWO NIGHTS IN A ROW. NOT BY MY CHOICE. I FEEL LIKE I GAINED TWENTY POUNDS. WE WENT TO A MOVIE. WE HAD NOT DONE THAT IN ABOUT TWO YEARS. AS YOU CAN SEE THIS WAS A MUCH NEEDED VACATION. DESPITE ALL THE SPOILING, THE BEST PART WAS JUST SPENDING QUALITY TIME WITH MY BEST FRIEND WITHOUT THE DISTRACTIONS OF THE KIDS. THANK YOU TO GRANDMA AND AUNTIE NIA FOR WATCHING THE KIDS SO WE COULD HAVE THIS TIME TO OURSELVES. AND A HUGE THANK YOU TO MY HUBBY. IT IS DEFINITELY WORTH INVESTING IN OUR RELATIONSHIP.

A Home of Our Own

2008-05-22T20:37:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that we had been living with my in-laws for the last year and 9 months. It can be so hard to have two separate families under the same roof. I am forever grateful to my in-laws and all that they put up with for the time we were there. I know it was hard at times for both of us. Anyways, luckily, we finally have a home of our own again. We are back at the lamplighter apartments. I know it is not a house, but I am just so grateful to have a place to call our own again. I told Mese that I would stay for the next ten years if we had to. Hopefully that won't be the case. So I guess I just have a fetish with taking pictures of my kids while in the bath. I know you can't really tell that it is a new bathroom, but it's all the pictures I have right now of the new place. Our kids adjusted really well to their new room, thankfully. They love having space for their toys and I love that they have their own closet and I don't have to share mine. Well, they still have to share theirs with the food storage, but they don't know the difference. I love it. Hopefully we can eventually get everyone over for dinner some time.

RETREAT

2008-03-31T12:45:00.001-07:00

WOW, THIS IS THE PERFECT FOLLOW UP TO MY LAST ENTRY. I JUST GOT BACK FROM OUR ANNUAL COUSIN'S RETREAT. WE STAYED AT THE BEAUTIFUL FALCON RIDGE HOTEL IN MESQUITE, NV. IT IS A TIME TO RELAX, REJUVENATE, REFOCUS AND GET RE-ACQUAINTED WITH FAMILY MEMBERS YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IN A LONG TIME. THANK YOU TO MY WONDERFUL COUSINS AMBER, MELISSA, AND SIMCAH WHO PLANNED A FABULOUS AND FUN WEEKEND FOR US. I HAD A BLAST. THANK YOU TO MY BROTHER AND SISTER, MILES AND COLETTE, FOR WATCHING MY KIDS AND ESPECIALLY THANK YOU TO MY ADORABLE HUBBY FOR ALL THE HARD WORK YOU DID WITH THE KIDS WHILE I WAS AWAY. I LOVE YOU.
YEAH, I WOULD DEFINITELY SUGGEST A RETREAT. PLAN ONE WITH YOUR SISTERS AND COUSINS. IT IS SO MUCH FUN. I CAME HOME WITH SO MUCH ENTHUSIASM ABOUT MY JOB AS A WIFE AND MOM. NOT THAT I DON'T LOVE BEING A MOM, BUT IT WAS AWESOME TO GAIN STRENGTH FROM HEARING THAT EVERY ONE ELSE YOU LOVE AND LOOK UP TO IS GOING THROUGH THE SAME THINGS YOU ARE AND THEY ARE SURVIVING. YOU WILL LAUGH A TON. THE JACUZZI WAS BROKEN SO WE ALL TOOK TURNS SQUISHING IN TO THE EXTRA LARGE BATH WITH JETS THAT WAS IN THE SUITE THEY GAVE US. WE LAUGHED, WE CRIED, AND WE FELT THE SPIRIT. I LOVE RETREATING.

BEING A MOM IS HARD WORK..........BUT TOTALLY WORTH IT.

2008-03-12T14:43:00.000-07:00

I KNOW IT IS KINDA A CLICHE BUT IT IS SO TRUE THAT YOU WILL NEVER KNOW HOW HARD IT IS TO BE A MOM UNTIL YOU BECOME ONE. I THOUGHT I KNEW, BUT I DIDN'T. AND, YOU TOTALLY APPRECIATE YOUR OWN MOM MORE.
I ALWAYS TOLD MYSELF THAT I WAS NOT GOING TO BE ONE OF THOSE MOMS WHO "NEEDED A BREAK" EVERY NOW AND THEN FROM MY KIDS, BUT NOW I UNDERSTAND THAT IT'S NORMAL. I DON'T KNOW ONE WOMAN WHO FEELS DIFFERENTLY AND IT'S OKAY. THAT IS WHAT I HAVE LEARNED. YOU WOULD GO INSANE IF YOU DIDN'T GET THAT ALONE TIME. IT IS SO IMPORTANT TO TAKE THAT TIME SO THAT YOU DON'T LOSE YOUR SENSE OF SELF. I'M STARTING TO SOUND PREACHY SO I WILL MOVE ON TO SAY THANK YOU TO MY HUSBAND AND FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHO HELP OUT IN THAT AREA. I APPRECIATE IT SO MUCH, BUT EVEN MORE THAN THAT, I LOVE MY KIDS BEYOND WHAT WORDS CAN DESCRIBE. THEY ARE MY WHOLE WORLD. THERE IS NOTHING BETTER THAN BEING A MOM.

A GOOD MAN IS HARD TO FIND, BUT I GOT THE BEST MAN!

2008-03-12T14:39:00.000-07:00

SO, AS MANY OF YOU KNOW, IT WAS MY HUSBAND'S BIRTHDAY YESTERDAY. I JUST WANT TO SEND OUT THIS SPECIAL BLOG FOR HIM. I WANT ALL THE WORLD TO KNOW THAT I LOVE HIM SO MUCH AND THAT HE IS THE BEST. THANK YOU, HONEY, FOR BEING THE GREATEST HUSBAND AND FATHER A FAMILY COULD ASK FOR. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH. HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

TAG.....I GUESS

2008-03-03T08:34:00.000-08:00

THIS IS KINDA DIFFERENT, BUT I WILL DO IT FOR YOU ALISE.

10 YEARS AGO I WAS ABOUT TO TURN 17. I HAD A BOYFRIEND WHO I WAS KINDA MEAN TO. HE GAVE ME MY FIRST "REAL" KISS AROUND THIS TIME TEN YEARS AGO, BUT I DUMPED HIM SHORTLY AFTER THAT. I ALSO GOT IN MY FIRST CAR ACCIDENT AROUND THE SAME TIME. THE FIRST OF MANY, BUT I AM GLAD TO SAY I HAVE BEEN ACCIDENT FREE NOW FOR ABOUT FIVE YEARS.

5 THINGS ON MY TO-DO LIST FOR TODAY: TAKE THE KIDS TO THE LIBRARY, BUY ORANGE JUICE, PAY A BILL, WORK OUT, AND WRITE IN MY JOURNAL FOR THIS 13 DAYS CLOSER TO CHRIST THING OUR RELIEF SOCIETY IS DOING.

SOME SNACKS I ENJOY: WHERE DO I START? I LOVE JUNK FOOD. HOMEMADE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES, ICE CREAM, PITA WITH HUMMUS DIP, PIZZA, VEGGIES AND DIP, DILL PICKLES, AND ANYTHING FROM PANERA. I'M SO SAD THEY PUT ONE IN IN REDLANDS.

IF I WERE SUDDENLY A BILLIONAIRE I WOULD: SELFISHLY GO ON A SHOPPING SPREE FOR NEW CLOTHES. I LOVE FASHION AND NEW CLOTHES, BUT I HAVE TO REMEMBER THAT THEY ARE THINGS THAT I CAN'T TAKE WITH ME TO HEAVEN. THEN I WOULD GIVE AS MUCH OF IT TO DIFFERENT CHARITIES AS I COULD. I'D DEFINITELY BUY A HOUSE TOO.

5 PLACES I HAVE LIVED: MONROVIA, UPLAND, RANCHO CUCAMONGA, SALT LAKE CITY, AND MENTONE.

5 JOBS I HAVE HAD: CATERING, WAITRESS AT MIMI'S CAFE FOR THREE YEARS, A SUBSTITUTE TEACHER, ASST. MANAGER OF COPY CENTER AT OFFICE DEPOT, AND LIBRARIAN.

5 THINGS PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT ME: I PERFORMED IN A CHILDREN'S SINGING GROUP MY WHOLE CHILDHOOD. I WAS THE CO-CAPTAIN OF THE DANCE TEAM IN HIGH SCHOOL, I ATE SNAILS ONCE WHEN I WAS A BABY (STRAIGHT OUT OF THE GARDEN), I CAN BE KINDA SHY AROUND PEOPLE I DON'T KNOW, AND I WAITED FOR A MISSIONARY UP UNTIL SIX WEEKS BEFORE HE WAS SUPPOSED TO COME HOME AND THEN I BROKE UP WITH HIM IN AN EMAIL.

THREE PEOPLE I TAG ARE ASHLEY PATTERSON, BRITTNEY, AND MELINA

OUR FAMILY

2008-02-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

THINGS ARE GOING GREAT FOR US. WE HAVE DECIDED TO START THE NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT BY GETTING INTO BETTER SHAPE. WE GOT MEMBERSHIPS TO THE GYM. PLEASE SHOW US ALL YOUR SUPPORT. WE NEED IT. OUR KIDS ARE STILL OUR WHOLE WORLD, OF COURSE. WE LOVE THEM SO MUCH AND COULDN'T IMAGINE LIFE WITHOUT THEM. MARLOWE IS STILL THE LITTLE FIRECRACKER, CAUSING ME A HUGE INCREASE IN GRAY HAIRS. SHE LOVES TO SAY " I DO IT." SHE IS VERY INDEPENDENT AND WANTS TO DO EVERY THING HERSELF. HER OTHER FAVORITE PHRASE IS; "NO, I DON'T WANT" SHE IS A GIRL WHO ALREADY KNOWS VERY WELL WHAT SHE DOES AND DOES NOT WANT IN LIFE. WE LOVE THE SPICE SHE BRINGS TO OUR LIFE. MASON IS STILL A SWEET HEART. HE MELTS MY HEART WITH EVERY SMILE. HE IS A DADDY'S BOY, THOUGH. AS SOON AS HE WALKS IN THE DOOR MASON IS SPEED CRAWLING OVER TO HIM TO GET A BIG HUG. HE CLAPS HIS HANDS AND LOVES TO HAVE BOOKS READ TO HIM. WE LOVE HIM SO MUCH.

THE YEAR OF THE BANGS

2008-02-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

YES, I CUT MY HAIR. I THINK I HATE IT. I WAS LOOKING ONLINE FOR CELEBRITY HAIRSTYLES THAT I LIKED AND MESE DISCOVERED THIS PROGRAM THAT YOU CAN PUT YOUR PICTURE IN AND TRY ALL KINDS OF HAIR STYLES ON YOURSELF. SO THE ONE THAT LOOKED THE BEST ON THAT PARTICULAR PICTURE WAS ONE OF ASHLEY SIMPSON'S HAIRSTYLES WITH BANGS. SO, I WENT FOR IT. FOR ABOUT THE FIRST WEEK, I LOVED IT EVEN THOUGH IT WAS A LITTLE HARD TO GET USED TO. NOW I JUST HATE IT BECAUSE IT'S GOING THROUGH THE UGLY STAGE. I JUST HAVE TO DEAL WITH IT, THOUGH UNTIL IT GROWS OUT MORE. AND WHY DOES IT SEEM LIKE EVERY ONE ELSE I KNOW IS CUTTING BANGS TOO?

CRUISIN'

2008-02-11T07:42:00.000-08:00

FOR CHRISTMAS MY PARENTS BOUGHT ALL THEIR KIDS A CRUISE. IT WAS SO AWESOME. WE ALL WENT FROM JAN.14TH TO THE 18TH. IT WAS LIKE A LITTLE FAMILY REUNION OUT AT SEA. WE HAD SO MUCH FUN. WE WERE SPOILED WITH DELICIOUS FOOD. TOO MUCH FOOD AND ALL KINDS OF FUN AND LAUGHS. WE DANCED THE NIGHT AWAY AND ROCKED THE KARAOKE BAR. WE JUST WISH WE WOULD HAVE HAD ALL OUR FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES THERE TO SHARE IT WITH. WE ARE GONNA TRY AND MAKE IT A YEARLY TRADITION AND GO EVERY JANUARY. THATS THE OFF SEASON AND YOU CAN REALLY CHEAP TICKETS. SO IF ANYONE WANTS TO JOIN US, LET US KNOW.
IT WAS SO NICE TO HAVE A BREAK FROM THE KIDS. LUCKILY WE KNEW THEY WERE IN GOOD HANDS. A HUGE THANKS TO MASON AND MELINA PATTERSON AND DAN AND GABBY HULL. YOU GUYS ARE SO WONDERFUL. WE LOVE YOU.

WARD CHRISTMAS PARTY

2007-12-03T10:54:00.000-08:00

SO, THIS PAST WEEK I PUT UP THE TREE AND WE HUNG LIGHTS AROUND THE CEILING AND I PUT UP THE NATIVITY AND A WHOLE BUNCH OF OTHER CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS. IN THE BOX THERE WAS A PICTURE OF LITTLE MESE ON SANTA CLAUS' LAP. SO I TOOK THE OPPORTUNITY TO PREP MARLOWE FOR THE WARD PARTY THIS PAST WEEKEND TO EXPLAIN WHO SANTA IS AND HELP HER TO NOT BE SCARED. LAST YEAR SHE WAS VERY SCARED. EACH DAY WE WOULD GO OVER AND OVER WHO HE IS AND WHAT HE DOES, BUT I FORGOT TO MENTION THAT SHE WOULD HAVE TO SIT ON HIS LAP IN ORDER TO GET THE CANDY AND TOYS. WHEN IT CAME TIME TO SIT ON HIS LAP SHE DUG HER FINGERNAILS INTO MY ARM AND SCREAMED LIKE I HAVE NEVER HEARD HER DO BEFORE. HER BROTHER, ON THE OTHER HAND, WAS COMPLETELY FINE WITH IT. HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN SUCH AN EASY GOING BABY. I HAVEN'T GOTTEN THE PICTURES ONTO THE COMPUTER, BUT HERE ARE SOME FROM THAT NIGHT. I LOVE CHRISTMAS.

NE W VAN

2007-11-28T09:38:00.000-08:00

WELL, HERE IS THE LATEST PICTURE OF OUR KIDS. THEY LOOK A LITTLE LIKE ORPHANS IN THIS PICTURE, BUT WE LOVE THEM. IT IS SUCH A JOY TO BE A PARENT. THEY JUST GROW TOO FAST. ANY WAYS, I JUST LOVE THE HOLIDAYS. MY FAVORITE PART ABOUT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON IS THE EARLY CHRISTMAS PRESENT I RECEIVED A FEW WEEKS AGO. MY HUSBAND BOUGHT ME A MINI VAN. I LOVE IT. IT IS SO NICE AND ROOMY AND I CAN DRIVE SO MUCH BETTER IN IT. WE ARE ALL ENJOYING IT VERY MUCH. THE BEST THING, THOUGH, IS THAT I AM NOT STUCK WITHOUT A CAR ANY MORE. IT'S WONDERFUL. ESPECIALLY SINCE MESE IS GONNA BE WORKING AND GOING TO SCHOOL. I FEEL LIKE AN OFFICIAL MORMON MOM NOW.

DIETING

2007-11-15T13:27:00.000-08:00

WELL, NOT MUCH IS NEW. NOW THAT MESE IS BACK TO WORK AND WE HAVE A DAILY SCHEDULE LIFE IS KINDA DULL, BUT TRUST ME I AM READY FOR THAT. MESE LOVES HIS NEW JOB AND I AM ENJOYING THE ROUTINE. I GET TO WORK OUT EVERY DAY, NOT THAT I ACTUALLY DO, I SHOULD, BUT IT'S MORE LIKE FOUR TIMES A WEEK. I WENT TO HAVE A CHECK UP ABOUT A MONTH AGO AND AFTER ALL MY BLOOD TESTS AND EVERYTHING I FOUND OUT THAT I'M IN GOOD SHAPE. "VERY HEALTHY" ACCORDING TO THE DOCTOR WHICH IS GREAT NEWS. I JUST WISH IT WAS THE SAME FOR MY HUSBAND. HE HAS HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE, WHICH I HAD HOPED, COMING FROM A DOCTOR WOULD SCARE HIM ENOUGH TO CHANGE ENOUGH TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. ONE OF THE REASONS I MARRIED MY HUSBAND WAS BECAUSE OF HIS SIZE. I ALWAYS FEEL SO SAFE AND PROTECTED AND PETITE WHEN HE WRAPS HIS BIG ARMS AROUND ME. BUT, I WANT HIM TO BE HEALTHY ABOVE ALL. SO, AS A RESULT, WE ARE ONCE AGAIN TRYING A NEW "PLAN" TO EAT HEALTHY. I HATE TO CALL IT A DIET BECAUSE IT REALLY IS SUPPOSE TO JUST BE A COMPLETE LIFE CHANGE. IF ONLY IT WERE AS EASY AS HIS PHOTO-EDITING DIET(CHECK OUT MESE'S LATEST BLOG ENTRY). SO, I KNOW HE'S KINDA GETTING OLD NOW, BUT I HAVE BEEN WATCHING DR. OZ ON OPRAH A LOT LATELY AND REMEMBERED THAT TUI HAD BOUGHT HIS BOOK A WHILE BACK. IT WAS SITTING ON THE SHELF COLLECTING DUST SO I PICKED IT UP AND STARTED READING. IT'S VERY INTERESTING AND INFORMATIVE, BUT MY FAVORITE PART IS ALL THE RECIPES IN THE BACK. THEY ARE PRETTY EASY AND VERY GOOD. SO FAR IT'S GOING WELL. WE ARE STARTING OUT SLOW. I GOT SO EXCITED WHEN DR. OZ SAID YOU COULD EAT DESSERT EVERY OTHER DAY. AT THE TIME I DIDN'T KNOW HE MEANT HIS RECIPES. I AM A HUGE CHOCOLATE FAN AND I HAVE A VERY BIG SWEET TOOTH. LIKE I SAID WE ARE CUTTING STUFF OUT SLOWLY. NOW, IF I COULD JUST GET MESE TO EXERCISE A LITTLE. ANY SUGGESTIONS?

ANSWERED PRAYERS

2007-10-18T19:02:00.000-07:00

I HAVE SO MUCH TO BE GRATEFUL FOR EVERY DAY, BUT ESPECIALLY TODAY. WE HAVE HAD SO MANY ANSWERS TO PRAYERS THIS LAST COUPLE OF DAYS. I JUST HAD TO PUT DOWN IN WORDS HOW THANKFUL I AM THAT HEAVENLY FATHER IS THERE FOR US. HE MAY NOT DO EVERYTHING IN THE TIMING THAT WE DESIRE, BUT IT IS SO TRUE THAT ONCE THINGS DO WORK OUT, YOU LOOK BACK AND YOU CAN REALLY SEE WHY HEAVENLY FATHER REALLY DOES SEE THE BIG PICTURE AND HIS TIMING IS BETTER. HE KNOWS ALL AND HE DEFINITELY ANSWERS PRAYERS. WE'RE DOING GREAT.

DISNEYLAND

2007-10-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

JUST WANT TO SAY A QUICK CONGRATS TO THE WESTBROOK FAMILY FOR THEIR NEW ADDITION. BABIES ARE SO MUCH FUN. SHE IS ADORABLE. WE'VE ALL GOT SOME REALLY CUTE KIDS. THIS IS OUR KID'S FIRST TRIP TO DISNEYLAND ABOUT THREE WEEKS AGO. WE WERE GONNA WAIT UNTIL THEY GOT MUCH OLDER, BUT WE GOT IN FREE SO WE FIGURED WHAT THE HECK. IT WAS PRETTY FUN. MASON LIKED IT BETTER THAN MARLOWE BECAUSE HE WAS TOO YOUNG TO BE SCARED. MARLOWE WAS SCARED OF PRETTY MUCH EVERYTHING EXCEPT THE CAROUSEL AND THE DUMBO RIDE. RIGHT WHEN MESE SNAPPED THIS PICTURE IS WHEN SHE REALIZED THERE WAS A HUGE MONSTER BEHIND US.

HOUSE-SITTING

2007-10-05T15:33:00.000-07:00

WELL, MY PARENTS FINALLY GOT BACK FROM THEIR CRUISE TODAY SO THAT MEANS WE ARE BACK HOME. WE SPENT THE WHOLE WEEK HOUSE-SITTING FOR THEM. IT WAS FUN, BUT WE'RE GLAD TO BE HOME. WE HAD FUN HANGING OUT WITH THE WOLFGRAMM KIDS FOR TWO DAYS AT THE POOL. WE LOVE YOU GUYS. YEP, SWIMMING IN OCTOBER. I LOVE LIVING IN CALIFORNIA. SOUNDS LIKE MY PARENTS HAD A BLAST TOO. I GUESS MY DAD ENTERED THE HAIRY CHEST CONTEST AND WON. HE DANCED AND POSED LIKE NEVER BEFORE. HE REALLY CAME OUT OF HIS SHELL. THEY SAY THAT FOR CHRISTMAS THEY ARE GOING TO TAKE US ALL ON A CRUISE. I AM EXCITED. IT WILL BE MY FIRST TIME. I JUST HOPE THE SHIP DOESN'T SINK.

FRIENDS

2007-10-05T15:23:00.000-07:00

LIFE IS GOOD AND FRIENDS ARE GREAT. SINCE I'VE BEEN MARRIED I HAVE MADE MORE CLOSE FRIENDS THAN I HAVE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE. I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH. I AM SO GRATEFUL FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES AND THE LOVE YOU GIVE TO OUR FAMILY. THANK YOU. YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE. WE LOVE YOU.

PUT SOME ROMANCE BACK IN YOUR MARRIAGE

2007-10-03T19:24:00.000-07:00

SO, LAST SATURDAY AT THE RELIEF SOCIETY BROADCAST A BUNCH OF US WERE TALKING ABOUT HOW OUR HUSBANDS WERE SO ROMANTIC DURING OUR COURTSHIPS, BUT NOW THE ROMANCE HAS DWINDLED DRASTICALLY. WELL, AFTER THIS WEEK I FEEL LIKE I HAVE TO TAKE BACK EVERYTHING I SAID. IT IS LIKE MY HUSBAND SOMEHOW SPIED ON US AND HEARD EVERYTHING WE WERE SAYING AND NOW IS DOING EVERYTHING HE CAN TO PROVE ME WRONG. EVERYTHING FROM OPENING DOORS FOR ME TO PAUSING FOR A MOMENT TO HUG AND KISS ME IN THE MIDDLE OF THE GROCERY STORE JUST BECAUSE HE LOVES ME. I HAVE TO SAY MY HUSBAND IS THE BEST. HE IS SOOOOOOO SWEET. I LOVE HIM SO MUCH. SO IF THERE ARE ANY HUSBANDS OUT THERE READING THIS TAKE A LITTLE LESSON FROM MESE, PUT A LITTLE ROMANCE BACK INTO YOUR MARRIAGE. TAKE TIME TO KISS YOUR WIFE AGAIN, A REALLY GOOD KISS.

2007-09-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

YESTERDAY WAS A FUN-FILLED DAY. DURING A DAY FULL OF RUNNING ERRANDS, GETTING READY FOR THE LUAU, WE DISCOVERED THAT WE HAVE A LITTLE MUSICIAN ON OUR HANDS. MASON HAS BEEN HUMMING SINCE HE WAS ABOUT THREE MONTHS OLD, BUT NOW DADDY CLAIMS THAT WHILE HE WAS PLAYING AROUND ON THE PIANO MASON WAS HUMMING ALONG AS USUAL AND THEN HE STARTED TO FOLLOW THE NOTES UP AND DOWN. MARLOWE'S NEWEST THING IS THAT WHENEVER WE GO ANYWHERE IN THE CAR SHE FINDS A BLANKET OR A SHIRT AND WRAPS IT AROUND HER HEAD LIKE NUN OR AN AFGHANI WOMAN. MESE CALLS HER HIS LITTLE ROMANIAN REFUGEE. WE ONLY HAVE PICTURES ON OUR CELL PHONES AND WE HAVEN'T FIGURED OUT HOW TO TRANSFER THEM TO THE COMPUTER YET. HOPEFULLY WE WILL SOON, THOUGH, BECAUSE IT'S PRETTY FUNNY.

Check out my Slide Show!

2007-09-19T19:14:00.001-07:00

our happy family

2007-09-19T18:34:00.000-07:00

WELL, TIMES ARE A LITTLE TOUGH, BUT WE CAN'T COMPLAIN. WE ARE BLESSED WITH BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY CHILDREN THAT BRING SO MUCH JOY TO OUR LIVES. THEY GROW SO FAST. YESTERDAY MASON GOT HIS FIRST TOOTH, WHICH IS GOOD BECAUSE HE WANTS TO EAT ALL THE REAL FOOD HE CAN GET HIS HANDS ON. MARLOWE IS STARTING TO FORM WORDS AND TALK A LOT BETTER. SHE CAN POINT TO ALL HER BODY PARTS AND SHE LOVES TO HELP MOM WITH HER BABY BROTHER. HE IS VERY PATIENT WITH HER. SHE LOVES TO GIVE HIM HUGS AND KISSES, BUT THAT USUALLY CONSISTS OF HER LAYING ON TOP OF HIM OR SITTING ON HIS HEAD.

mese and anna ugapo

2007-09-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

hi everyone

this is my first time doing this. who knows if i will actually keep up with it. these two babies keep me pretty occupied. hope everyone checks us out and that all is well.