Everyday Life as the Star Family

Welcome Our Newest Star

2011-11-27T20:05:00.000-08:00

Stationery card

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Miteball Phillies Gameball

2011-03-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

Back on March 19, Tyler received the game ball from for his team. He is an awesome baseball player! Great job Tyler!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T19:04:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patty's Day!!

Phillies Game Ball

2011-03-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday Trevor received a game ball from his coach. I was so proud of him! He did a great job hitting, catching, everything!

Congratulation Trevor!

More Star Wars Party...

2011-03-08T21:39:00.000-08:00

A quick picture recap of our Star Wars Party

I had to include these great pictures of Obi Wan Kenobe & Anakin...

Special thanks to Best.Party.EVER! for the awesome Star Wars characters that came to our party! The kids really believed that they were from Star Wars.

Trevor's Star Wars Birthday Party

2011-02-24T22:24:00.000-08:00

Trevor is finally 6 and he finally gets a Star Wars Party!

Invitations to set the stage...

Party favors for all the Padawans

Snacks for the Padawans

The Padawans get to look like some of their favorite Star Wars characters

More Star Wars Characters

Lego/Star Wars Cake

Star Wars Mickey with R2D2

More Disney Star Wars characters

The kids got this at the end of their Jedi Training with Obi Wan Kenobi & Anakin

More pictures to follow....

Star Wars at Disneyland

2011-02-24T15:40:00.000-08:00

We have a tradition for going to Dinseyland for the kid's birthdays. So ofcourse for Trevor's 6th birthday, we all went to the big D-Land. And since Trevor is finally 6 he wanted to do the Jedi training (which he has already done - but we have a rule of no Star Wars until you are 6.) So we head to the Jedi training and we wait for the show to start. Well, the floors were a little wet and they canceled the Jedi training. Bum deal you figured, but we even got something better to do. A Meet & Greet with the Star Wars cast! It was awesome! We have been watching the Jedi Training for over 2 years now and Trevor has been a Padawan twice so far and we have never been able to take pictures with any of them. This was awesome! (I think I was more excited that the boys.)

Happy Birthday Trevor!

2011-02-16T20:44:00.000-08:00

Happy 6th Birthday Trevor!!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T19:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the Star's!

Wordless Wednesday: Green Master Yoda

2011-02-02T19:32:00.000-08:00

So we went to a party and my son wanted to be Yoda. This is Master Yoda and was he excited.

Master Yoda

Mammoth Vacation - December 2010

2011-01-21T23:49:00.000-08:00

This winter holiday we were very lucky enough to go to Mammoth for a few days. We usually go to Big Bear since it's local and we have a condo to stay at. We decided that this year we would have a fun winter vacation to the best snow, Mammoth. And it was the best! Before Christmas they had a big snow storm giving them the "Most Snowfall in the World." And by the time we left they received over 200 ft of snow for their 2010-2011 winter season. It was awesome! We all loved it! Here are some pictures from our great trip.

Can't wait to go back....

Wordless Wednesday: Happy Birthday to Me

2011-01-12T01:36:00.000-08:00

Late birthday photos for my birthday last week.

My ice cream cake - YUM!

With my big kid

With my little one

(He was asleep when we did my cake. So this is a picture from our day earlier.)

Wordless Wednesday: S.S. Mark Twain

2011-01-05T00:28:00.000-08:00

Disneyland's Mark Twain boat ride

Goal for the summer

2011-01-05T00:21:00.000-08:00

So I have a goal I really want to get to by this summer. I have this plan for our kitchen/dining area. Currently in our dining area, we have some mismatched furniture. Basically we have an old wood cabinet that holds our wine/margarita/martini glasses, an Ikea unfinished shelf that holds our kid's art stuff and toys, an old piano, and an old futon/couch. So my plan is to get rid of all of this and put a whole new storage area/cabinets on one side of our wall. I plan to have it match our kitchen with the same countertops. When I envision it, I get very excited. Ben actually likes the idea too. It will give our kitchen & dining area a new and clean look. (Eventually we want to put a flatscreen on the wall and get a new dining room table that will fit atleast 8 people.) Ben & I estimated that this will take a few thousand dollars. So my goal is to make enough money from notary jobs to save this money by the summer. I will let you know how it goes. Wish me luck!

Happy New Years!

2011-01-02T17:24:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011 everyone! This year has been a fun and exciting year for us here. Some quick highlights: Trevor & Tyler learning how to ski, having the most snow in Big Bear, going zip lining in Mexico, celebrating 7 years married together, Trevor starting kindergarten, and our 1st trip to Mammoth with beautiful snow! And I look forward to another great year with more memories to remember. Goodbye 2010 and Hello 2011...

Now onto to New Years Resolutions. Two quick ones I think I do need to work on are keeping my patience with the kids and keeping our house more clean (less boxes & clutter in the house - this one is for the husband). Two simple resolutions, I hope I keep it up.

Happy New Years!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T21:49:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Wordless Wednesday: Elfie - Elf on the Shelf

2010-12-22T21:58:00.000-08:00

Pump It Up for Tyler!

2010-12-22T21:52:00.000-08:00

This year I gave Tyler an option of what to do for his 4th birthday. I asked him if he wanted a Chuck-E-Cheese party or a Pump It Up party. He has been to both places for a party and really enjoyed them both. I was actually really surprised that he chose a Pump It Up party.
It was a great party! Tyler had a blast and all the kids had a great time running and jumping and bouncing all around. Check out his fun filled party...

Wheeeee!

Daddy and the boys

Bounce

The Birthday King

Family Pic

Happy 4th Birthday!

Yummy green cupcake

Thanks everyone!

Menu Plan Monday - December 20, 2010

2010-12-20T23:53:00.000-08:00

Even though I haven't posted all my weekly menus I have been doing a good job planning my meals for the week and following through. This week will be an easy week because my parents will be coming into town and the upcoming holidays.

Monday

Chili & Chips

Tuesday

Dinner Out - my parents arrive

Wednesday

Off - Out with high school friends

Thursday

Dinner Out with parents

Friday

Christmas Eve Potluck at our house

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese

Rice Krispie Treats for dessert

Saturday

Merry Christmas!

Leftovers or go to Aunt's house

Sunday

Off

I love weeks like this. I get to focus on the holidays and not worry about what to feed the family.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Sushilicious

2010-12-18T01:24:00.000-08:00

I had to post about this fun sushi place we went to - Suschilicious. It was fun and hip and yummy! Even the kids had fun. Tyler kept picking the green plates but didn't try any of them. It's a great place to go with friends and kids.

Hanukkah Recap

2010-12-18T01:14:00.000-08:00

Our boys get the best of holidays. 8 nights of Hanukkah and then Christmas! Presents all over the place. The boys really did get into Hanukkah this year. Ben had them try and recite the prayer when they lite the candles. They looked forward to lighting the menorah. And of course the best part... Presents! After the 8th night, Tyler said that he did not want to put the Hanukkah stuff away. He wanted more nights of Hanukkah.

3rd Night of Hanukkah

Hanukkah with cousins

The kids got many presents when we celebrated with their Grama, Poppa, Uncle, Aunt & Cousins

Family Picture

Trevor

Tyler

More 4th Birthday Fun!

2010-12-18T00:55:00.000-08:00

Tyler had 3 fun filled days of fun for his birthday. We started with a Disney day, then his official birthday at school, presents & dinner at Farrel's, and lastly his fun birthday party at Pump It Up. He loved it all and I know he is excited to open his presents. He actually already unwrapped everything but only gets to pick one present a day to open and play with.

Here are some pictures from his birthday celebrations...

Starting his birthday with a Disney day...

Brothers!

Daddy & Tyler

Mommy & Tyler

Waking up to fun birthday streamer!

Birthday Party at School

From Ms Jeannene

I am 4 today!

His green shoes he has been asking for

The Tyler pose

Happy Birthday from Farrel's

Tyler got to make a cuddly bear from Build-A-Bear. His name is Tyler Bear.

Pictures from his party are to come...

Happy Holidays From the Star Family

2010-12-18T00:14:00.000-08:00

Snowflake Damask Holiday Card

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Happy 4th Birthday Tyler!

2010-12-16T22:17:00.000-08:00

Happy 4th Disney Birthday Tyler!

We Love You!

A Visit to Santa

2010-12-04T22:10:00.000-08:00

Our annual visit to Santa! The boys love him and look forward to telling him what they want for Christmas. Their list goes on and on.... Legos, Zhu Zhu pets, battling Zhu Zhu, hot wheels, more Legos.... and of course there is the green everything from Tyler.
This year we visited the Santa at South Coast Plaza. And he was great! He took the time to talk with them and the boys loved him. Here are some pictures I took with him...

After they visited Santa, we had to go to the toy store but then I reminded them of the Santa train village. They love watching the train go round and round.

And then the reindeer merry-go-round.

A fun morning!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

Menu Plan Monday - November 29, 2010

2010-11-28T22:44:00.000-08:00

So I am going to try and plan our family meals for the week. I will try and post the recipes I use and have a protein and vegetable every night. Let's see how my 1st week goes... (FYI - I am very big on leftovers. I am not a fan of cooking every night.)

Monday
Off - Hubby has tennis and I don't need to make a major meal

Tuesday
Girl's Night Out to The Melting Pot
Hubby & Kids are on their own

Wednesday
Ham and Asparagus Lasagna
Salad

Thursday
Leftover Lasagna
Vegetable

Friday
Intoxicated Meatballs
Rice
Corn

Saturday
Leftovers or Hanukkah Dinner with Family

Sunday
Off - End of the Season Shetland Party
Need to make Spinanch Artichoke Dip

Wish me luck for my 1st week planning my week!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-27T22:36:00.000-08:00

I know I am a few days late, but better late than never!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Shetland Game Ball

2010-11-19T12:40:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of this month, Trevor received a Game Ball from his coach. Great job Trevor!!

Here are some pictures from his game...

Trevor has been in baseball since he was 3 1/2 years old and it's great to see how much he has improved and how much he is into the game. He loves playing and looks forward to game day.

Great Job Trevor!!

Hawaii 2008

2010-11-16T16:48:00.000-08:00

Our family went on a fun Mendoza vacation to Hawaii 2 years ago this Thanksgiving. It was a great week along with my cousin getting married. Come and view the Shutterfly album I created.

Click here to view this photo book larger

Holiday Cards with Shutterfly

2010-11-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite photo sites, Shutterfly, has great holiday cards to choose from. You have the options of 1 picture, 2 pictures or more. You can even have up to 12 pictures! One of my favorite Christmas photo cards they have is the Top Ten Moments Christmas Card. I love how you get to write down the 10 great memories of 2010. I plan on asking everyone for their favorite memory. I also love how it’s very colorful and can be used for any holiday, like Christmas or Hanukkah. I plan on using 3 pictures from this year – our winter trip to Big Bear, our summer trip to

Mexico

, and our fun Halloween family dressed as Star Wars. The colors of the card will go great with the pictures I am choosing. I have made many photo products from Shutterfly and know that this holiday card will turn our great!

Shutterfly is doing this great promotion right now. Bloggers get 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly…sign up: http://bit.ly/sfly2010 .

Game Ball

2010-11-05T21:18:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, my little guy received the Game Ball. He was so excited!

Great Job Tyler!!

Jack O'Lanterns

2010-11-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

We finally got a chance to carve our pumpkins. Since Trevor's soccer game got rained out, we had the perfect Saturday afternoon activity to do.

The boys had fun carving their pumpkins.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Star Wars - Jedi Training Academy

2010-11-01T19:44:00.000-07:00

Trevor finally decided to try and be a Jedi In-Training at Disney. And he was picked! He did an awesome job. Check out the video.

Happy Halloween!

2010-11-01T19:28:00.000-07:00

May the Force Be with You!

Wordless Wednesday: Rain Boots

2010-10-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

Loving Mommy's Rain Boots

We Got Boo'd

2010-10-19T00:41:00.000-07:00

Look at the fun stuff we got when we were Boo'd. The boys were so excited to open the goodies.

Thank You!!

Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-11T21:21:00.000-07:00

Another fall. I love it! Pumpkins and orange and fun! Today we went actually to our 2nd pumpkin patch for the season. And we went to Tanaka Farms. Not only did we get to pick a pumpkin, we also got to pet animal at the petting zoo, go on a fun tractor ride and pick fresh vegetables. It's always a fun day!

Another Year of Preschool

2010-09-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

Two weeks late but here is Tyler's 1st day of Preschool. He is so excited to go back and see old friends from last year.

1st Soccer Game of the Season

2010-09-11T18:09:00.000-07:00

Today was Trevor's 1st soccer game of the season. Not only the beginning of soccer season but the beginning of our crazy sports schedule. Every Saturday we will have a soccer game from sometime between 9 am -1 pm. And then at the end of this month we start fall ball games. Trevor will start his 1st season as a Shetland player and Tyler too is doing Miteball again for the 2nd season. Sundays are our game days. We haven't received any games times yet but I know Sundays will be crazy. Basically our entire fall weekends until Thanksgiving is all sports. And I forgot to mention our practice times. We got a little lucky and have both boy's fall ball practice on the same day but it's from 4:30 - 7 pm! We will be having dinner at practice. And of course don't forget soccer practice too. That's only one day for a hour on a different day. I am not complaining but it is a little crazy what we are doing. I really do enjoy watching my boys play sports. Also they both really enjoy it too. It's great for them to have fun with their friends, and they love that their daddy coaches them. So it's always worth it.

Here's a picture from his 1st game...

Road to My 1st Half Marathon! - Race Day!

2010-09-06T23:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I completed my 1st half marathon! The Disneyland 1/2 Marathon. 13.1 miles! It was such a fun run and I think I will be doing it again next year. Everything about the run was great - Disney characters cheering you on, music along the way, groups of people cheering you on, running through California Adventures, Disneyland and Angels Stadium. It really was fun and energetic! I loved hearing people cheer "Go Cherryl!" It just made me smile while I ran by. And it was also great having my friend, Nataly, run besides me. She runs much faster than me but she decided to hang back with me. That also made things go by faster. Here are some pictures from my 1st half marathon...

Ready for the race

Look how dark it was at 5ish in the morning & look how many people are here!

Start!!

Look who we ran into - the Genie from Aladdin

Lilo & Stitch

The Disney Princesses

Little Einstein

Running in Angel Stadium

My boys cheering me on!

Road to My 1st Half Marathon! (Last week)

2010-09-03T21:05:00.000-07:00

2 more days until my 1st half marathon! Can't believe it! Will post pictures after Sunday morning...

1st Day of Kindergarten

2010-09-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

My big kid just had his 1st day of Kindergarten. How they grow up so quickly! We were all excited for him. He was excited also. All morning he kept asking when he was going to school.

Big thumbs up for his 1st day

1st day of school with a big smile

Love the Clifford ears they kids all made today

After school he was so excited. He loves kindergarten and can't wait to go back.

Road to My 1st Half Marathon! (Week 13)

2010-08-22T08:44:00.000-07:00

This was my big week of running... 10 Miles! I feel so great after this run and I can't wait for the Disney 1/2 Marathon in 2 weeks. Now I will start tapering down my runs. I still cannot believe it's only 2 weeks away...

This week's training mileage: 20 Miles

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Ran 5 Miles
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Ran 5 Miles
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Ran 10 Miles!

2 Weeks until the big day!

Road to My 1st Half Marathon! (Week 11 & 12)

2010-08-16T22:12:00.000-07:00

So I combined last week's and this week's workout schedule together. Last week I was getting burnt out of running. I didn't run as far as I wanted to that week, but I still have time to get there. And during most of my run I was just going back and forth on how far to run. I have trained so hard for this 1/2 marathon that I do not want to stop until it's over. I am determined to get to 10 miles and slowly taper my runs. This week has been a better week though...

Last week's training mileage: 11 Miles

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Ran 5 Miles
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Ran 4 Miles
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Ran 2 Miles & 1 Hour Step Class

This week's training mileage: 19 Miles

Monday: Ran 5 Miles
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: 9 Miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Ran 5 Miles

4 Weeks until the big day!

Wordless Wednesday: OC Fair and The New Dog

2010-08-04T21:50:00.000-07:00

Road to My 1st Marathon! (Week 10)

2010-08-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

Getting back ont rack has been hard. We came home from vacation and then found out that we needed to tent the house. We didn't have bugs flying all over the house or anything but we found some flour bettles from a batch of old dog biscuits. And they were going everywhere. It drove me so crazy and paranoid that I couldn't cook at all. I was worried that it was going to end up in my food. So we had the termite/bug guys come out and they convinced me to tent the house. The bugs just drive me crazy! Instead of unpacking when we got home from vacation, we are packing more clothes to leave the house for a few days and packing our food up. Ugh! Not something anyone looks forward to when coming home from vacation.

Anyways, I did get a few runs in since the 1/2 Marathon is in 6 weeks. Can't believe it's getting closer and closer...

This week's training mileage: 15 Miles

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Ran 5 Miles
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Ran 2 Miles
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Ran 8 Miles

6 Weeks until the big day!

Road to My 1st Marathon! (Week 9)

2010-07-31T23:10:00.000-07:00

This week me and my family were on a week vacation cruising along the Mexican Riviera. We had a great week relaxing and spending time with our family. I was excited to try the running track they have on the top deck of the boat. And I actually did use it twice while I was there. I have every intention of running 3 days but we are on vacation and I wanted to sleep in. Back to their running track... I found out that to run a mile you have to go around 5 times! On the first day, I wasn't sure if I would even make 3 miles. So I ran and ran and I actually did the 5 miles I intended to run. Twice!

This week's training mileage: 10 Miles

Monday: Ran 5 Miles
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Ran 5 Miles
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Rest

7 Weeks until the big day!

Road to My 1st 1/2 Marathon! (Week 8)

2010-07-26T00:19:00.000-07:00

So I am back on track. Yeah!! Can't believe it's only 8 weeks away from the Disneyland 1/2 Marathon.

This week's training mileage: 16 Miles

Monday: Ran 4.5 Miles
Tuesday: 1 Hour Step Class
Wednesday: Ran 4.5 Miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Ran 7 Miles
Saturday: Julianne Michaels 30-Day Shred video
Sunday: 1 Hour Step Class

8 Weeks until the big day!

Worldless Wednesday: All-Star Mickeys - St. Louis Cardinals

2010-07-14T00:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Dad!

2010-07-12T00:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Daddy!

The Newest Member in the Mendoza Family (My Mom's Side)

2010-07-11T23:54:00.000-07:00

This weekend I got to meet my cousin's son, Makana. He was born about 1 1/2 month early and only weighed over 3 pounds. He is do precious and adorable and makes me want another baby. Here are some pictures from my visit.

Congratulations Marc & Ann!

Road to my 1st 1/2 Marathon! (Week 7)

2010-07-11T21:06:00.000-07:00

I know, I know... Excuses, excuses... This week my big kid got sick at the end of the week and that did not help with my running. I usually run in the morning and on those 1st day of him not feeling well was nights with him waking me up at odd hours. So I couldn't wake up early. So I only ran twice this week...

This week's training mileage:  10 miles

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: 1 Hr Step Class
Wednesday: 4 Miles
Thursday: 6 Miles
Friday:  Rest
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: 1 Hr Step Class

9 Weeks until the big day!  Less than 2 months!

Road to my 1st 1/2 Marathon! (Week 6)

2010-07-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

This week was slow for me to get going, but I ran the miles and boy was I tired!

This week's training mileage: 14.1 miles

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Ran 6 miles
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Ran 4 miles
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: 5K Race + 1 mile Kid Run

10 Weeks until the big day!

Mommy & Trevor Date Night - A Disney Night

2010-07-01T22:09:00.000-07:00

Trevor & I started out summer with a great night! We went to Disneyland and California Adventure. It was a great night. We started our night with the Celebrate! A Street Party Parade. We love parades!

Heading to Disneyland

Trevor with the All-Star Mickey

The Celebrate! Street Parade

We then ventured to Toon Town for a ride on Gadget's Go Coaster. We love this fun roller roaster.

Wheeee!!!

One of the main reasons we went to Disneyland was for Fantasmic! And we saw it! After Gadget's Go Coaster, we headed towards Rivers of America. We were lucky and found a great spot near the Haunted Mansion. It was awesome! Trevor was a bit scared when it got all dark and spooky sounding. But we saw it and I was so excited. I think even more excited than Trevor.

Waiting for Fantasmic!

All the Disney Characters

After Fantasmic! we headed our way out of Disneyland and towards California Adventure. I heard from one of Disney's cast members that World of Color was having 3 showings of their water show. So we took a risk and headed to California Adventure. And it was worth it. We saw the 10:15 pm show from the side view, which was ok. We saw the beautiful water show. We happen to still be in the area and got to see the 11:15 pm World of Color show from a front view from Ariel's Grotto. It was beautiful! It was a perfect way to end our night! Click here to see a clipse of World of Color.

Toy Story ride

Getting Ready for the ride

World of Color

What a great show!!!!

Road to My 1st 1/2 Marathon! (Week 5)

2010-06-27T20:23:00.000-07:00

I am back on track again! :) I had a good week and I plan on having more better weeks. I still need to work on my eating habits though. Even though I am running and exercising more than before, I have not been able to lose any weight. I think that I have been eating more and snacking more after the boys go to bed. I need to kick the late night snacking habit.

Coming up next week is my local community's 4th of July 5K race. Looking forward to this. My boys will be doing the 1 miles lake run too. Wish us luck!

This week's training mileage: 12.5 miles

Monday: Ran 5 miles
Tuesday: 1 Hr S.E.T. (strength endurance training) Class & 1 Hr Step Class
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Ran 4 miles
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Ran 3.5 Miles
Sunday: 1 Hr Step Class

11 Weeks until the big day

Me & My Boys

2010-06-25T00:14:00.000-07:00

Here's another writer's workshop from Mama Kat's Writer's Workshop. I chose promt #3.

What does your child do that reminds you most of yourself? How does it make you feel?

This was very simple for me to think about. Both of my boys does this same thing I do. When I am concentrating on a project or activity, I tend to bite my toungue on the side. I do not realize I even do it most of them time. I think its cute that both of my boys have received this trait of mine. This is probably one of the better traits they picked up of mine.

Happy Father's Day!

2010-06-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day!!

On the Road to My 1st 1/2 Marathon! (Week 4)

2010-06-20T21:10:00.000-07:00

I had a real slow week. Getting sick at the end of last week did not help my training schedule. So I am behind and need to pick up the pace next week. This week I did not get to workout/train much. I only got out 2 days.

This week's training mileage: 6.5 miles

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Rest
Friday: 3 miles
Saturday: 3.5 miles
Sunday: Rest

12 Weeks until the big day.

Laguna Hills Memorial Weekend 5K Race

2010-06-14T21:59:00.000-07:00

After signing up for the Disneyland 1/2 Marathon, I signed up the family for the Laguna Hills Memorial Weekend Race. They had a 1/2 marathon, 5K, 1/2 kids race & a diaper dash for the younger kids. I ran the 5K and the boys (Trevor & Tyler) ran the 1/2 mile kids race. I was so proud of my boys. Trevor's result for the 1/2 mile was 6:36 minutes ans Tyler's results was right behind Trevor at 7:24 minutes. I was amazed they both did a great job!
Here are some picture from our fun morning.

The Finish Line

The Runners

Stretching with Daddy

Kids 1/2 Mile Race

Trevor Running

After the Kids 1/2 Mile Race

With their Winner's Medal

On the Road to My 1st 1/2 Marathon! (Week 3)

2010-06-14T13:56:00.000-07:00

This week, I started feeling sick on Friday. I had 3 days of no working out because I just didn't have the energy. I am bummed that I lost those 3 days but I hope I will get back on track soon.

This week's training mileage: 11 miles

Monday: Run 3.5 miles
Tuesday: Walk 1 mile
Wednesday: Run 3 miles
Thursday: Run 3.5 miles
Friday: Rest
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: Rest

13 Weeks until the big day.

30 Things I Vow To Do This Summer - Updated!

2010-06-10T23:59:00.000-07:00

I heard about Mama Kat's Writer's Workshop from Angry Monday Julie's blog. Every week there will be a few topics to write about. It's meant to help you get creative and connect with other bloggers. So I thought I would give it a try...

30 Things I Vow To Do This Summer
1. Complete my youngest son's 1st year scrapbook
2. Train for my 1st 1/2 marathon this September
3. Make a digital scrapbook of the family vacation to Hawaii that we went on with my family back in Nov 2009
4. Take one day a week this summer to work on my many scrapbooks that I am very behind on
5. Clean out the kid's old toys and get rid of them
6. Get up to date on our household bills/Quicken
7. Run 3-4 times a week
8. Go to the gym 2 times a week
9. Make more homemade lunches for the family
10. Keep the fridge full of healthy fruit choices
11. Go to Pretend City & Discovery Science Center more since we have annual passes - for too hot summer days (7/5)
12. Take advantage of the boats they have for rent at our community lakes - I have rental passes ready to use!
13. Take more bikes rides with the kids for nearby playdates & activities (6/18)
14. Do a daily drawing/writing journal with my oldest son to get him ready for Kindergarten
15. Make homemade ice cream with our ice cream maker
16. Vaccuum once a week - atleast try to!
17. Go to the beach more often
18. Write in my blog about twice a week
19. Have a girl's night out atleast once a month
20. Have a date night with hubby once a month
21. Make a real breakfast for the family (not just frozen pancakes)
22. Really clean out my closet and get rid of pre-pregnancy clothes that I haven't worn in over 5 years :(
23. Start making money as a Notary Public
24. Watch the next Twilight Series: Eclipse & Toy Story 3 in the movie theaters
25. Go to Wild Rivers (6/22)
26. Use our Disneyland pass before the summer black-out dates and watch Fantasmic! (6/21 World of Color too!) & (6/30 World of Color again)
27. Stop snacking after the kids go to bed
28. Update our picture wall
29. Relax and not stress about being late
30. Enjoy our summer!

Some of these thing have been on my to do list before so I hope I really follow through with it. I will update when I get things done.

On the Road to My 1st 1/2 Marathon!

2010-06-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

So I think I have gone crazy! A few weeks ago I signed up for a 1/2 marathon. Just to let you know, I never ran a mile until last year when I had a goal of running a 5K race on the 4th of July. And I did do it and was so proud I did. My time isn't the best but I am a slow runner and I try my best.

So in my local MOMS club there have been a few of us who have started runnig here and there a couple of months back for the Eco-Mud Run we did back in April. After the mud run, some of us talked about another mud run in July. A few others talked about a 10K for the 4th of July race. And another few of us talked about the Disneyland 1/2 Marathon in September. I have always thought a 1/2 marathon would be such a big accomplishment for me and that it would be cool to say that I have done one so... I signed up! On Sunday September 5th, I will be running my 1st 1/2 Marathon - the Disneyland Half Marathon. I am excited but nervous at the same time.

So to get myself started, I plan on logging in my miles and activites for the week.

I am currently on 3 week of my 1/2 marathon training, so I will post last week's training.

This week's training mileage: 11 miles
Monday: Laguna Hills Memorial Weekend 5K Race
Tuesday: 50 minutes Step class
Wednesday: 3 miles Run
Thursday: Rest
Friday: 1 miles Run/Walk
Saturday: Rest
Sunday: 4 miles Run & 1 Hour Step Class

14 Weeks until the big day.

Irvine, California

2010-05-20T23:36:00.000-07:00

Kelly from Kelly’s Korner Blog is doing a Blog Carnival about “Show Us Where You Live." We live in Irvine, which is one of the safest cities and considered a "bubble." Inside of Irvine we live in Woodbridge, which is called the "bubble inside the bubble." I love it here and here is the only picture I have of Woodbridge.

This is at the South Lake. In Woodbridge there are 2 lakes, 2 lagoons, 2 bridges, 2 main tennis courts, many pools and parks (one park is called a "bike/trike" park where they have paths for kids to ride their bikes and trikes.) I love raising my two boys here!

Wordless Wednesday - Go Angels!

2010-05-05T21:44:00.000-07:00

OC Mud Run at The Great Park

2010-05-04T09:49:00.000-07:00

Just did my 1st Mud Run on Saturday, April 24th. And it was fun! It wasn't as muddy as I thought but that was ok since it was my 1st one. We did the the OC Mud Run and Eco Fest at the Orange County Great Park in Irvine. Here are some pictures from our fun morning.

Pre-Mud

Me, Dianne & Anette

With our MOMS Club running friends

Anette, Dianne, Me, Kathryn & Silvia

Dianne, Kathryn & Myself

After the race - Muddy Mommas!

The girls are actually talking about another mud run on July 17th at Irvine Lake.

Our New Pet - Tad the tadpole

2010-04-11T22:54:00.000-07:00

So we have a new pet in the house. A tadpole! For Trevor's birthday, he received a Backyard Safari Outfitters Wet & Dry 2-in-1 Habitat. (Thanks Ryder, Owen & Dianne!) And just last week, we received our tadpoles. The boys were very excited. Check out our new little guy...

Backyard Safari Habitat Wet & Dry 2-in-1 Habitat

The boys are very excited about our tadpoles

See our tadpoles upclose

Their cozy house

After we came back from Big Bear we only had one tadpole left, Tad. And he has grown too!

On the guide on how to grow a tadpole, it says that it takes a month for them to become a frog. So wish up luck and I will keep you updated.

Happy Easter from Big Bear

2010-04-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

A late Happy Easter from Big Bear!

MOMS Club Easter Spring Party

2010-04-07T22:55:00.000-07:00

We had another MOMS Club family party - Annual Spring Easter Family Picnic. It was a great party! Our party coordinator did an awesome job and all the kids had a great time. Thanks Jenny!
The kids had fun with all the spring games, a great storytime by another fellow mom, fun art activities, and a gardening activity. And ofcourse the egg hunt! This is always a hit with the kids!
I think the thing I looked forward to the most was the dessert bake-off. Four moms made some yummy looking desserts and I needed to make sure I had some of them. And they were all delicious! Especially the chocolate peanut butter cake! All YUM!

Painting Easter Frames

Decorating Eggs for the Egg Race

Egg Race

And the winner is....

Trevor & Tyler in their own Egg Race

Easter Crafts

Easter Games

Easter Stories

Egg Hunt

Look at all our eggs!

Batman Birthday Party

2010-03-31T14:08:00.000-07:00

One of Trevor's friend had the coolest birthday party. Actually his mom was awesome! The theme was Batman. She makes the yummiest desserts. Atleast they all look yummy. For her son's birthday, she made his Batman cake in Gothan City. She also made these yummy Bathman cookies. Check out pictures of the fun brithday...

Yummy Batman Cookies

Each kid received Batman braceletes after their 1st game

Pinata Time - Batman

Tyler showing off his cool Batman bracelet and his candy from the pinata

This was a cool Batman cake!

Easter Flashback

2010-03-30T23:05:00.000-07:00

Easter 2009

Easter at Home

Easter 2008

South Coast Plaza (Crystal Court) Easter Bunny

Easter 2007

South Coast Plaza Easter Bunny

Easter 2006

Easter ay Grama & Poppa's House

Spring MiteBall & T-Ball

2010-03-27T22:20:00.000-07:00

This spring both boys are signed up for baseball through Irvine Pony Baseball. It's very exciting! This is Trevor's 4th and Tyler's 1st season playing baseball. They are both very excited. Trevor's team is the Ray's and Tyler is the Angels.

Trevor's 1st game for him was last weekend and he was awesome! He did a great job hitting the ball, running the bases and playing in the field. We are very proud of him. Go Rays!

Tyler has been loving baseball. Ben is the head coach for his team. Tyler has also been doing a great job during his games. He is able to hit the ball, run to the correct bases, and can field a ball (throw and catch). At his 1st game, he actually caught a ball (it was all a coincidence, but it was great.) He is having a great time!

Here are some pictures from both boys games...

Trevor playing the pitcher position

Great hit Trevor!

Running to 1st Base

Heading Home!

The last 2 innings are coach pitched

Tyler's 1st Game - March 6, 2010

Getting ready to hit the bal

Running to 3rd base

Heading home - Run Tyler, Run!

Tyler playing inn field

Great Hit!

Playing 1st Base

OC Mud Run

2010-03-26T18:15:00.000-07:00

In about a month from now, I will be doing the Orange County Mud Run. I am very excited but nervous since this will be my first time doing a mud run. Two of my girlfriends will be doing it with me so it will be a ton of fun. It will be on Saturday, April 24th at 9 am at the Irvine Great Park. They have a 5K, 10K and 2 kid runs. I will be doing the 5K. I did ask my Trevor if he wanted to do the kid's mud run and he said he was scared, so maybe next year I can get him down there. So now I am training to get myself ready for another 5K since my last 5K race was back in December. Wish me luck and I'll post pictures after the race.

Wordless Wednesday: Happy St Patty's Day!

2010-03-17T23:16:00.000-07:00

Happy St Patty's Day!

Wordless Wednesday: I See You!

2010-03-10T23:37:00.000-08:00

Show Us Your Life - A Typical Star Day

2010-03-05T14:06:00.000-08:00

Obviously my day various since I have 2 kids in preschool on oppposite days, but here is what my "typical" day looks like:

5:30/6 am - Kids wake up
7 am - I wake up, shower, and get ready for the day / Kids also get ready
8 am - breakfast for the gang and getting ready to go to school
8:45 am - Off to school
9 am - Drop one of the boys off at school
9:15 am to 11:30 or 12:30 pm - While one of my boys are in school, I get to spend "quality" time with my other guy. This consist of gymnastic class, art class, quick trip to Disneyland, playdate with friends, MOMS Club activities, or just plain fun errands! And on some days, I go to the gym for some me time, while I drop my kid off at the gym babysitting.
11:30/12:30 pm to 3 pm - We sometimes have playdates with friends like our Monday Buddies or our Tuesday Friends. On other days, we may visit a local museum until nap time. And then there are the days we just head home.
3 pm to 5 pm - Nap time for the little guy & I get to rest or catch up on house stuff
5 pm - Getting dinner ready
6 pm - Dinner then clean-up
The rest of the night usually is just us hanging at home until bath time.
8 pm - Bath time and then bed time for the kids
8:30 pm - The rest of the night is all mine!!!
And I am a late owl and usually do not go to bed till midnight or even later.

Trevor's 5th Race Car/Hotwheel Birthday Party

2010-03-01T23:23:00.000-08:00

The big 5! This was the birthday party that Trevor was really looking forward to. He wanted his party at home and he wanted a hot wheel party. I did try to pursuade him to have it at a park, so he can invite more friends and I would not have to worry about cleaning the house. :) He was very determined for a house party, so that is what he got. I do have to admit that I did have a lot of fun planninng this party. Check out our fun day...

Invitation - Husband is so great and made this for me

Party Details - Our theme was Race Car/Hot Wheels

When each friend arrived, they received a wooden car to color. After all Trevor's friends arrived, we gathered the kids for a Race Car Derby using their wooden car they colored. At the end of a race, all the kids received hot wheel medals. (Trevor was very excited to pick these.) Another game we played was relay races. I painted 2 boxes and made them look like race cars with wheel and race car numbers on the side. The kids got into 2 teams to race each other. They wore race googles and helmets. And then they were off. Both teams raced and at the end they really didn't seem to care about winning. They just had fun racing in the carboard racecars. The last activity before cake was the Hot Wheel pinata.

Race Car Derby Time

Relay Races

Party Friends!

Pinata Time!! Candy!

Race Car Hot Wheel Cake

(And I made it too!)

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday Day Dear Trevor,

Happy Birthday to you!

Another Big Bear Trip

2010-02-23T16:18:00.000-08:00

We love the snow! This year we have been so fortunate to have the best snow ever at Big Bear since we have been alive. It's awesome! And you can see it in the snow conditions on the slopes.

So this past weekend, we took another Big Bear trip with some friends of ours and had a balst! Awesome snow and great friends. What a good combo!

Here are some highlights of our trip. You can also watch a video of Trevor skiing down the Summit Run here.

On the lift with our friend, Jessica

I am going off a jump. I am actually off the ground!

Ben flying!

We found our kids at their lessons - This is Tyler going up the bunny hill lift.

Ben and Trevor went out on the slope in the afternoon, and this is them on the lift going up the bunny hill lift.

Trevor on the Summit Run

Wordless Wednesday: Rocking Out

2010-02-17T13:38:00.000-08:00

Happy 5th Birthday Trevor

2010-02-16T08:25:00.000-08:00

Today my big kid turns 5! He's just growing up everyday...

Feb 16, 2005

February 16, 2007

Today - February 2010

HAPPY 5th BIRTHDAY T-STAR!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T08:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2nd Annual Pink Swap

2010-02-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

So I was a little busy with blog swaps. I did a second swap with Monograms and Manicures. She was hosting her 2nd Annual Pink Swap. I decided to do this swap because my favorite color is pink. It was calling my name. I was paired with with Anita for this swap. Anita was very sweet and I received a beautiful package.

My favorite thing I received from her is the personalized note cards. They are very cute with my first inital on them. The other items I received are more heart pasta, another note cube with a pen, some bubblegum, pink smelly body spray from Bath & Body Works, cute Valentine's Day kitchen towels, Hersey Kisses (which were delicious and all gone), pink lip gloss (which I also love), 2 hearts cups for my boys (they love it and it has lights that blink when you press a button), 2 packs of Wriggly gum (my dad use to always chew these - reminds me of him) and a cute doggie card. As you can see, all of my items she packed had cute pink & light green ribbon around them. Loved it! Too cute!
Thank you Anita!

Blogger's Valentine's Swap

2010-02-10T11:51:00.000-08:00

Another fun holiday swap from The Mommy-Files. I was matched with Stacey from One Domestic Darling and I received and awesome package from her. Come check it out:

I received a package of heart pasta, a red & white note pad with pen, a white & red washcloth, my favorite valentine candy (conversation hearts), 2 pancake heart molds and 3 heart straws (2 for my boys). I already know what I will be making for Valentine's Day - heart pancakes for breakfast & heart pasta for dinner. I love it all, especially the conversation heart! (They are almost gone). Thank You Stacey!!

Wordless Wednesday: Who's that in the Water?

2010-02-10T07:58:00.000-08:00

At one of our visits to California Adventures, my friend took this awesome picture of my son behind a water tank.

Fresh Farm to You

2010-02-08T23:38:00.000-08:00

Another yummy produce box! This month was even better than last month. Check it out:

Navel Oranges (2), Haas Avocadoes (1), Butternut Squash (2 lbs), Broccoli (1 lb), Green Leaf Lettuce (1 bunch), Cucumbers (1lb), Carrots (1 bunch)

I did notice that I was suppose to get 3 Fuji Apples and a replacement for 1 lb of savoy cabbage (since I put cabbage on my vegetables I do not want). I called them and they will add the missing items to my next box. Perfect!

Flashback Fridays

2010-02-05T23:59:00.000-08:00

I actually found this photo from my High School friend's Facebook page. (Thanks Missy!)
This is me and my friends senior years in high school before some senior activity. (I am wearing the white shirt.)

And MOMS Club friends, you may recognize this frog from our coffee club mornings. I never thought I would have kids playing on this frog.

Disneyland iPhone App - MouseWait

2010-02-05T23:49:00.000-08:00

I love my iPhone, especially the fun Apps you get to put on them. What I especially love is the Disneyland application I found. Its called MouseWait. When we visit Disneyland or California Adventures, I always click on the app to see the wait time for my kids favorite rides. It is so simple to use. You click on the park you are going to and then you look for your ride. It tells you the wait time someone else had at a certain time. You also can contribute and tell them your wait time. The best part of this app is that it is free! I love it and always use it at both parks. I recommend this to all Disney passholders.

Daddy's New Car

2010-02-05T21:51:00.000-08:00

Last week, my husband bought his new Toyota Tacoma. He was so excited that we had to take it out to dinner that night. The kids were even more excited about it. Just look and see...

Our future driver in 13 years

He can't wait to bring it up to the snow....

Wordless Wednesday: Nap Time

2010-02-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

More of Big Bear Jan 2010

2010-02-02T23:23:00.000-08:00

While we were in Big Bear, we had the best time! Ben & I were able to go snowboarding and the kids took a ski lesson. We also got to go sledding in front of our condo. Literally in front of our door. There was snow everywhere!

Here are some pictures of our adventures in Big Bear:

In front of Snow Summit

Ski School

On the mountain

Big Bear Lake is right behind us. Isn't it beautiful!

Tyler going down the "bunny hill"

Trevor cruising down

Tyler on the ski lift

Snow Angels

Snow Play in Front of the Condo

Our little snowmand we built

We had an awesome trip to Big Bear. Can't wait to go next month!

Wordless Wednesday: Big Bear Jan 2010

2010-01-27T13:33:00.000-08:00

(from Snow Summit)

The Best Snow Ever in Big Bear

2010-01-26T13:49:00.001-08:00

We were so lucky to have plans to go to Big Bear after their biggest storm in about 30 years. They had the most snowfall in such a short amount of time. It was beautiful there!

On our way up the 18 freeway through Lucerne, cars were sliding left and right with chains on. It was scary. But as you go up and mountain, all you see is snow and it's a lot of snow. I was amazed and excited!

Check out our pictures along the way...

Driving on the 215 to Big Bear

On the 18 through Lucerne

On the 18 (where Ben put our snow chains on) There's more and more snow Going up Look at all the snow! Passing by a snow plow We are getting more and more excited Almost there! Passing by Big Bear Lake Passing by Stater Brothers and Vons The parking lot of our condo - There is a car under there! We're here! We're here! Look out our porch! Snow as high as us and icicles.

More of our weekend will follow...

Wordless Wednesday: I Love Legos

2010-01-20T00:21:00.000-08:00

Simply Fondue Birthday Dinner

2010-01-18T16:47:00.001-08:00

For my birthday, we went to dinner at Simply Fondue in Mission Viejo (2 weeks late since we had some sick people at home). I love fondue and try out whatever new fondue restaurant is in town. So when I saw Simply Fondue in San Juan Capistrano a few months back, we had to go. We also heard that kids eat free on Sunday from OC Kid's Eat Out , so we decided to bring our boys and do a fondue night with them.

To get them prepared for the big fondue night, we told the boys about the chocolate dessert we get at the end of dinner. That really got them excited. Here are some pictures of our fun night.

Getting Ready

Yummy!

Our Dinner Cooking

The Best Part - Dessert!!

What a fun birthday dinner! Thanks boys!

Someone got a new bed

2010-01-18T16:46:00.001-08:00

My oldest son, Trevor, is turning 5 soon so we decided that he needed a big kid bed. He was sleeping in his crib that was converted into a toddler bed. Over the holidays, he received big kid bed sheets from his Grama that he picked out himself. So yesterday we finally took his toddler bed/crib apart and converted it to a full size bed. It was such an exciting day. He was so excited and wanted to be surprised. And he was surprised and loved sleeping in his big kid bed. Now his brother wants a big kid bed. :)

Trevor's Room Before

Trevor's New Room & Bed

Wordless Wednesday: Favorite Stuffed Animal

2010-01-13T23:46:00.000-08:00

Favorite Animal: Daddy Dog

You can see the love he has for Daddy Dog

Farm Fresh to You

2010-01-07T23:52:00.002-08:00

So I signed up for this new program for fresh organic produce delivered to my house from Farm Fresh to You. I choose the small mixed produce box (includes vegetables and fruits) and it normally cost $25. For 1st time customers, you get a $10 discount and I am only paying $15 for this first box. I decided to try them out not only for the discount but also because:
1. You can choose to have your delivery every week, every other week, every month or whenever you need it. I choose once a month.
2. You can tell them what produce you do not want and they will replace it with other items that you do want. I haven't tried this yet, but I am looking forward to this.
3. They deliver your produce box right up to your door.

This morning I left my house at 9 am and found this great box in front of my door.

And here is what I got...

Navel Oranges (2 lbs), Eureka Lemons (1.5 lb), Braeburn Apples (2 lbs), Bacon Avocados (2), White Mushrooms (0.5 lb), Collard Greens (1 bunch), Red Leaf Lettuce (1 bunch), Leeks (1 lb)

So I think I will be making some yummy lemon bars, having a healthy salad, sauteing mushrooms, and eating fresh fruits. But I am stuck on the collard greens and leeks. And suggestions?

I'll let you know how my other produce boxes go...

Disneyland for my Birthday

2010-01-07T23:52:00.001-08:00

Another Disney birthday.... This time it was my birthday! A few days ago, Trevor actually told my husband that we should do Mommy's favorite thing for her birthday - Go to Disneyland. :)

Starting our day off on the tram rides

Family Picture
In front of Sleeping Beauty's Castle

On the Matterhorn for the 1st time (Trevor & Tyler's 1st time)

Dumbo

Merry Go Round @ Fantasyland

Happy Birthday to me!

2010-01-07T23:44:00.001-08:00

Birthdays are so much fun, especially for the kids. For my birthday, my boys woke me up in the morning and sang "Happy Birthday to you" and gave me these cute plates they made (with the help of my husband).

the front of my beautiful plates

(Trevor choose Christmas designs and Tyler picked a turtle)

the back of the plate
(their cute hand print)

my birthday cake
(Yummy chocolate - sooo good!)
I think my boys had more fun than I did.

Big Bear 2009

2010-01-04T22:49:00.000-08:00

We love going to Big Bear during the winter! We love snowboarding and we love playing in the snow!

During our winter break, we spent a couple of days in Big Bear. Ben & I were able to snowboard one morning and Trevor took a snowboarding lesson at the same time. It was perfect! The snow was great and the weather was perfect. Not too cold and not too warm. We also had Tyler try snowboarding on the mountain. On our last day, we went snow tubing at Big Bear Snow Play. It was so much fun! This was the first time for all of us.

Our Snowboarding kid

Heading down the mountainDown
Down
And through the markers
Snow Angels
Tyler's a little snowboarder too
Snow Tubing
Down they go
Mommy & Tyler
Wheeee!!
On the kid's mini mountain

What a fun time in Big Bear!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-04T21:33:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas! I love seeing the excitement on my kids eyes when they open presents. And I love seeing my family. Here are some quick pictures of our Christmas 2009.

Christmas Eve with my Dad's family

Christmas Morning

Santa gave the boys a cool new hotwheel car garage. Now they have somewhere to play with all their cars!

They had such a fun morning opening most of their presents.

Trevor & Tyler both made presents for us from school and this is the present from Trevor. Love it!

Christmas Day with my Mom's family

Tyler loves his new green motorcycles!

And Trevor loves Legos!