CC's World

Girl time

2009-06-05T08:14:00.004-05:00

I haven't had much time to spend with the girls in a while ~ those days have been numbered since bringing home Maggie and honestly trying to keep up with the girls' busy schedules. So, when Ashley asked if I could watch them yesterday while she went to some appointments, I said sure.

4 girls, under the age of 6....oh my.

Oh how they love to be together.

I am so thankful for the love that Gabriela, Maya & Isabela have for Maggie. She adores them all. I wish I could post more pictures of all the girls together, but this one will have to do.

Silly photos for silly girls....

Maya

Gabriela & Isabela

There always seems to be a little bit of pillow fighting going on when CC is around....hmmmm.

It's hard to believe that Gabriela will be turning 7 in a few weeks, and the girls will be 5 in July. Oh how time flies!

Thanks for the fun time girls. CC loves you....to the moon & back :)

Easter 2009

2009-05-04T16:13:00.007-05:00

Easter was once again a major "egg"stravaganza this year. Nana outdid herself (as she tends to do). We had lots of fun with dying of eggs, decorating cupcakes to look like little gardens and plenty of eggs to hunt through out the yard. The kids have such a great time playing together. (these are in no particular order)

Bobby's 11th Birthday

2009-05-04T16:06:00.005-05:00

Happy Birthday, Bobby! I can't believe that you are already 11 years old. It seems like only yesterday you were a little boy and now you're growing into a young man. I know it's rough being the only guy around, but all the girls love you. We're so happy to have you in our family. We love you and are so proud of you!

Love Letter

2009-04-06T19:16:00.004-05:00

I received the sweetest love letter last night. She was so proud to give it to me. She's been telling me that she had something for me for days. I could barely read it, from the tears in my eyes. Take a look and see for yourself. (You can double click on the letter to enlarge it).

WOW! I couldn't have been more touched, more impressed, more proud or more blessed than at that very moment. I just love love love you too, Gabriela!

Always,

Such a bad CC :(

2009-04-01T11:35:00.003-05:00

I can't believe how long it has been since I've posted to this blog. What a bad CC!

It has been hard to adjust to not having as much free time to spend with all the kids, like I used to. Don't get me wrong ~ I'm not complaining, but free time is few and far between. Plus, as the kids get older, their lives get busier and more complicated. When I do have some free time, it seems like they have something going on.

I was able to go to Gabriela's dance program a few weeks ago (I'll have to post those pics) with Maggie in tow. We had fun watching Gabriela show off all her moves. Maggie & I joined Gabriela out on the dance floor for one of her dances ~ man, am I out of shape...or could it be that I was holding a 27 pound toddler on my chest? Yep...that's it!

Recently, I've had a few conversations with Gabriela that made me laugh :)

CC: Gabriela, do you have a best friend in your class?
G: Yes, CC, I do. And you're not going to believe what her name is?
CC: What's her name?
G: She has a really great name. You're gonna love it! Her name is Courtney.
CC: Wow - that's a pretty cool name.
G: Yep! But CC, just so you know, that's not why she's my friend.

** gotta laugh!**

G: CC, I've been meaning to tell you something.
CC: OK
G: You can stop calling me Gabriela and start calling me Gaby. That's what all my friends call me.
CC: Well, I'm glad that I am your friend, GABY, but that will be the one and only time I call you that. You will always be Gabriela to me.
G: Ugh, that's what I thought. Oh well...it was worth a try.

**Seriously?! ha!**

At Maggie's birthday party, all the kids were playing outside except for Isabela. She was playing in the playroom.

CC: Isabela, what are you doing?
I: Just thinkin'
CC: Thinkin' about what?
I: Thinkin' about what I want to do next.
CC: Oh ok....

**so serious and yet so funny!**

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-30T23:05:00.007-06:00

SAMANTHA
MAYA
GABRIELA
ISABELA
SISTERS ~ MAYA, ISABELA & GABRIELA

TWO VIDEOS: ONE WITH ALL THE KIDDOS WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING. 2ND ONE IS A CONVERSATION WITH MAYA.

How I told the girls...

2008-12-03T10:25:00.004-06:00

I can't believe that it's been 2 months since I posted on CC's World! Life has been a whirlwind since mid-July when we brought Maggie home. I just realized that I never shared the story of how we told the 3 little ones about Maggie's arrival, so I guess I'll share it now :)

I was so nervous about telling Gabriela, Isabela & Maya about Maggie. I just didn't know how they would react, if they would understand. I've been so close to them since they were born, always with them, hanging out, doing things together...and I knew that those things would change when we brought Maggie home. I asked Ashley if she had told them about Maggie, and she said no ~ she thought I'd want to do it.

So, I came over to the house one evening, around bedtime. All of the girls were getting ready for bed and Gabriela wanted me to come and read her a story. So, I read her a book, and we just laid in the bed and chatted. Here's a little of how it went:

G: So, CC...what's new with you? (wow - loaded question!)

CC: Well, there is something I wanted to tell you about, Gabriela.

G: Ok, what?

CC: You know CC & Uncle have wanted to have a baby for a long time now?

G: Yes, I know

CC: Well, we are going to get a little girl to come and live with us and we're going to be her new mommy and daddy.

G: (squealing) a GIRL?!?!?! when?

CC: in a few days

G: how old is she?

CC: she's 1 1/2 years old

G: oh, so like Samantha's age?

CC: yep, a little smaller than Samantha

G: What's her name?

CC: Maggie Joy

G: oh, Maggie Joy. So, she's going to be my new cousin?

CC: yes, she is.

G: wow, that's awesome. Now, let's go tell the girls.

**** Before heading off to the girls' room, I just sat back and thanked God for this sweet little girl and how - just like that - accepted Maggie as our own.

CC: Maya, I want to tell you something.

M: Ok, CC...come in my bed and tell me.

CC: I wanted to tell you that CC & Uncle are going to get a new little girl to come and live with us.

M: What? A girl? (that seemed to be the theme for the night) You're going to have a little girl?!?!

CC: Yes, a little girl named Maggie.

M: Hey! Her name starts with a "M" just like mine (huge smile!)

CC: You're right it does

M: I can't wait to meet my new cousin, Maggie. I love her already, CC.

CC: I love her too.

M: Hey, CC....don't forget though...I loved you first :)

CC: I won't forget, Maya. (choking back tears)

M: Now go tell Isabela

*****

CC: Isabela, want to hear some good news?

I: Sur-a (sure)

CC: CC & Uncle are going to get a new little girl named Maggie and she's going to be our new baby.

I: You are getting a little "gurl"?

CC: yes, we are.

I: Wow! Is she going to yours For-ev-a?

CC: Yes, she's going to be our little girl forever.

I: I'm going to love my new cousin forever. Can you bring her over here now?

CC: Well, not right now. She isn't here yet...maybe in a few days.

I: Ok, well, make sure you bring her by so we can give her big kisses.

******

Could those 3 little girls be any sweeter? I mean, seriously! God knew what He was doing when He blessed me with those 3 sweethearts, in preparing me to be a momma, by being their aunt. They have taught me so much about love and acceptance in their short lives. Even now, recalling those special conversations, brings tears to my eyes.

We don't spend as much time together but the time we are together, is that much sweeter.

And I couldn't ask for better cousins for Maggie. They have loved her with an unconditional love, full acceptance and have never questioned one bit of how it came to be. There was no reason to worry about telling them...I should've known that they would respond as they did.

Moving forward, 5 months later...the screams that once greeted me at the door "CC's here! CC!" have now been replaced with "MAGGIE! Maggie's here!, and oh, hi, CC" But that's ok....I had 6+ years of greetings...I'm more than happy to pass it on to my little one, who never knew love like that, before she met the girls.

I haven't posted any pics of Maggie with her cousins, for security reasons, but since you can't see her face on this one, I thought I'd post it :) This picture was taken the first time Maggie went over to play with the girls.

Spanish 101

2008-10-02T16:19:00.002-05:00

Gabriela is taking a Spanish class at school this semester. They meet one day a week, after school. She is already bi-lingual, as Ash & Ed have raised all the girls with both English & Spanish in the home. However, because this was her first true class, they placed her in the beginning class.

When I asked her today how her Spanish class was...this is what she said.

"CC, it's so easy. I know everything already."
"Oh really, why is that?
"well, CC...I AM Mexican"

gotta love it!

"Keep the Change"

2008-10-02T15:07:00.002-05:00

When Gabriela started Kindergarten last year, she was finally at the big school and was allowed to have visitors at lunch. She was always asking me to come up and have lunch with her, but I couldn't due to my work schedule. Well, Maggie & I ventured up to Gabriela's school today to have lunch with her. She seemed so grown up...with all her other 1st grade friends.

Maggie & I waited for Gabriela to come to the lunchroom...ChickFilA waiting. Gabriela was excited to see me, but MUCH more excited to see Maggie. She sure does love that little one! (forget about CC, now!) Anyway, she sat down, started to enjoy her chicken, when she slyly asked...

"CC, do you have a dollar?"
"I think I do, why?"
"Well, I want to get an icecream"
"Ok...it's a dollar for an icecream?"
"Yep...everything is a dollar"....and off she went to pick our her treat. She came back to the table with her little BlueBell cup of icecream and I thought to myself...wow...what a rip off. I can't believe that cost a $1!
"Here, CC...here's your change." (65 cents...ok, that was more like it)
"Oh, there's change. I thought everything was a dollar"
"Well, I always give a dollar and then there is change.
Um, CC, how about you just let me keep the change so that I can get icecream again tomorrow?"
"Ok, Gabriela...you can keep the change!"

A smile went across her face and once again, CC was the favorite for the moment :)

Oh the joys of making a little girl happy...even if it is with 65 cents to buy an icecream tomorrow.

Happy Birthday, Maya!

2008-07-06T20:59:00.007-05:00

Dear Maya,

I can't believe that you are 4 years old today! Boy have you grown! Time has flown by and I have enjoyed each moment. It has been so fun to watch you grow, develop, and become the sweet little girl that you are today. You are soooo full of energy ~ no one would question that! You are a giggle box and it's contagious. I'm always laughing with you. You bring a smile to everyone you meet. You are loving and always giving me sweet kisses on cheek, hugging my neck and even throwing in an occasional "zerbert", which you find absolutely hilarious. You know that CC loves those!

You are growing into such a pretty little girl. That tilted smiling face is a killer :)I am so thankful to have been a part of all your firsts, your happy times, your frustrating times, your learning times and to see you become the little girl that you are.

Happy Birthday, Booger. I hope that you have a very special day. Always remember that CC & Uncle love you soooo much. I can't wait to make more memories with you this year.

Love you,

Happy Birthday, Isabela!

2008-07-06T20:45:00.007-05:00

Dear Isabela,

As I look at this picture and see your sweet little face, I just can't believe that you're already 4 years old. It doesn't seem that long ago that I was in the waiting room, awaiting the news that Baby A had been born! We were all so excited to meet you and Maya.

You bring joy to those that you're around. Your sensitive heart and sweet spirit shines through to all who meet you, even at your young age. Your early years weren't easy with all your illnesses, but you were the best sick baby I've ever been around. You love to read and watch movies (oh how you love Spiderman, of all things, right now!) and do "crafts". You are the focused one, the more serious one, but also the more defiant one as of late. But boy are you cute!!! You have the most beautiful big brown eyes and the sweetest smile with those darn dimples :) I could just eat you up!

Happy Birthday, Sweet Pea. I can't wait to see how much you grow and change in the next year. I look forward to all the memories we'll build together. Always remember that CC and Uncle love you soooo much. Hope you have a special day.

Love you,

Girls' Birthday Party

2008-06-30T22:41:00.003-05:00

Here are just a few pictures from Gabriela (6), Isabela & Maya's (4) birthday party yesterday.

My dear friend, Sally, and I made the girls' birthday cakes this year....which deserves an entire blog post all to itself. (check back tomorrow for that!)

Sally was also the hit of the party with her face painting wonders!

There were lots of presents to open....

And plenty of fun outside on the water slide....

Happy Birthday girls! We hope that you had a fun time celebrating your special days. We love you all so much.

What happens at CC's house.....

2008-06-27T09:17:00.004-05:00

Happy Father's Day (a little late!)

2008-06-27T09:01:00.009-05:00

To all the dads in our lives.....we are so blessed and love you all so much!

Grandad with Maya, Gabriela, Samantha & Isabela

Dandy with Isabela, Maya, Samantha & Gabriela

Ed with Isabela, Gabriela & Maya

John with Samantha

Bobby with Cierra & Bobby

Just me and Gabriela....

2008-06-24T14:12:00.003-05:00

Last Friday evening, I went to watch Gabriela's gymnastics lesson and then we were off...just the 2 of us...to celebrate her birthday.

She was sooo excited. "It's still just you and me, right, CC? It is my birthday afterall". Yes, just you and me.

"CC, I brought a really pretty pink dress to change into since you're taking me out to dinner."
"Where would you like to go eat? We can go anywhere you like."
"Chick-Fil-A?" (are you kidding me?!?!?!)
"No, we're not going to Chick-Fil-A tonight. Pick something else."
"OK...let's go to Papi's restaurant." (seriously, you can go anywhere and this is your 2nd choice?!)
"Really, that's where you REALLY want to go? Are you sure? Really?" (can you tell that I really wasn't wanting to go there...but if that's where she wanted to go, we would go.)
"Yep. That's where I want to go."
"Ok...let's go to Papi's Restaurant."
As we are driving down 1960, Gabriela pipes in...
"Wait! CC! Let's go to Chuck E Cheese!"
"Sure - let's go!" (that's more my kind of place to celebrate a birthday)

We had a great time a CEC and Gabriela was raking in the tickets from all her games of Skeeball and other games. She ended up with 218 tickets and was able to get 4 little things from the counter. I wonder how much a ticket is worth? Probably a penny....of course, a token is worth about a quarter. I'd say that they're making quite the profit, wouldn't you?

We left CEC and Gabriela wanted to know where we were going next. We were going to go and paint pottery but we spent too much time at CEC and it was too late. I told her it was her choice, but that I couldn't go anywhere that required a lot of walking, as I had just sprained my ankle that afternoon.

"How about the mall?"
"um...Gabriela...remember, not somewhere that requires a lot of walking?"
"oh yeah..that's right...let me see...how about Walmart?" (still not getting it)
"no...can't go there. How about we go and get some icecream?"
"Sure - that sounds perfect! Do you want to just go into Jack In The Box and get an icecream there?"
"Well, they don't really have icecream cones there."
"Ok, then, we can just go to the gas station."
I was cracking up....I could just hear it...so, Gabriela, where did CC take you? To the gas station.
So I suggested "Well, how about Bruesters Icecream?"
"Oh yeah, the one where you stand up next to the sign to see if your small enough to not have to pay for your icecream?"
'Yes, that one."
"Ok, I either want a cone with chocolate icecream, sprinkles and eye candy OR strawberry icecream with Reese's peanut butter cups."
Thankfully she went with her first thought, because that 2nd option just sounds nasty to me. But according to Gabriela, "it's absolutely the best icecream ever!"

After we finished our icecream, we made a quick stop at CVS to get a few things. Of course, she's always on the prowl for things that she "just has to have". And low and behold....we come across the whole section of polka-dotted items. Polka dots are very big for her right now. Her room is full of them and she wants her birthday party to be decorated with polka dots. We actually found some really cute b'day candles and table cloth with polka dots. She was so excited.

So we walk up to the counter to check out and the teenage girl working at there probably didn't know what hit her....

"Hi, tonight I'm celebrating my birthday with CC, but tomorrow is actually my birthday. I'm going to be 6. I love polka dots so CC is buying these for me and my sisters for our birthday party. See, there is a birthday candle with a 6 because that's how old I am going to be, and then we have 2 "4" candles for my twin sisters. We're going to have a polka dotted cake and this table cloth will go on the table so that we don't make a mess on my mommy's nice table. I sure am glad that we stopped in here tonight"

People I am NOT exaggerating. I was cracking up. And the girl behind the counter said - well, it sure is exciting to be turning 6! Indeed it is!

Happy Birthday, Gabriela!

2008-06-22T19:57:00.004-05:00

Dear Gabriela,

Happy Birthday sweet girl. I can't believe that you are 6 years old already. I still remember when your mama told us the exciting news that you were on your way...we couldn't wait to meet you! Oh and the first time I held you, I was so overwhelmed with how much I already loved you! I was so excited when Mommy & Papi moved back to Houston when you were just 6 weeks old....that meant that we were going to be able to spend so much time together. (I wish I had some pictures to add of you as a baby, but we weren't "digital" then...so I don't have any on the computer)

I was there when you first rolled over, crawled, walked and spoke your first words. You were the most beautiful little flower girl I'd ever seen. I was there when you fell off the bench in the kitchen and lost consciousness for a minute while Mommy was trying to keep Maya & Isabela from coming (literally!). I loved our drives around the circle (you were a good driver at the age of 3!) I have seen you learn to swim, ride your bike, attended your school programs, watched you perform your gymnastics routines, taken you to paint pottery and to the movie theater, and had you accompany me on too many shopping trips to count.

There was a song that I made up and sung to you when you were just a baby....more words were added as time went on. And as you grew older, you sang it with me.

"There once was a girl named Gabriela.

She was sooooo pretty.

And she was sooooo smart.

And she was sooooo funny (enter laughter)

And she was a great big sister.

One sister's name is Maya.

And the other sister's name is Isabela.

And she was a great big help to Mommy and Papi.

She gives great besos (kisses)

And great abrazos (hugs)

(here's the best part....)

And her favorite aunt is "CC!" (hey - you can't start too early) :)

You are so pretty! You are so smart! And you are way too funny! You always make me laugh and you have the sweetest heart.

When I asked you the other night, if you knew how much CC loved you....you said....to the moon and back! And then you said, but CC I love you more...I love you to the moon to the stars, to the sun, to Papi's restaurant to your house and back. That is a lot of love!

I love you Gabriela! I hope that you have a fun birthday, celebrating with everyone. I hope that you always feel special and that you feel loved. I look forward to all the fun memories we'll make together this year.

Love you,

More conversations with Gabriela

2008-06-11T12:20:00.006-05:00

Last Friday night, I stopped by to see the girls real quick. I was surprised to see Gabriela when I walked in the house, being that she is usually working with Papi at the restaurant.

CC: "Oh hi, Gabriela, what are you doing here?"
G: "I live here, CC...what are you doing here?" ha!
CC: "Well, I just came by to say hi and to see your new rooms." (they just went through some renovations). "But, I thought you would be working tonight."
G: "No, not tonight."
CC: "Why not?"
G: "I just didn't feel like working tonight?"
CC: "Well, sometimes we have to go to work even when we don't feel like it?"
G: "Not when you're 5"

...well I guess so!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, the girls gave me a tour of their new rooms. Gabriela's walls are PINK and her new bedspread/sheets are all polka dots of pink, blue and green....very cute! She is quite proud of her room. Isabela & Maya are in their same room with a fresh coat of yellow paint and twin beds. They are more than excited to not be sharing the full size bed anymore. When I asked Gabriela about having her own room again, she said...

"It is just wonderful, CC. You just can't believe how much better I sleep. The girls were always keeping me awake with their humming, singing, talking. Ugh....It was really aggrevating. You know how I need my sleep."

Yes, we all know how much a 5 year old needs her beauty sleep.

Gabriela's Kindergarten Program

2008-05-14T10:52:00.008-05:00

Can you say....center stage....performer...lovin' it?!?!?

Gabriela had her little Kindergarten program the other night. "Rock-n-Roll with Mama Goose" There were about 120 kiddos on stage and they sang 14 songs. It was quite an impressive production, and actually very cute.

Proud sisters watching on....As well as Nana, CC and Mommy!

Thanks, Abuelo, for coming to see me tonight!

CC and one of her beauties, Isabela

Way to go, Gabriela! You did a fantastic job! We all love you so much!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-14T10:45:00.003-05:00

Nana opening up her gift from all the grandkids.

The girls were so excited to see how much Nana loved it!

Nana showing off her treasure....with the help of 4 of her 6 grandkids. We missed you Cierra & Bobby.

Happy Mother's Day, Nana!

Thanks, Mamaw, for the push on the swing. We love you!

Happy Mother's Day, Mom & Mimi. We are thankful for you!
We hope you all had a special day!

Hanging out with CC & Uncle

2008-05-14T10:37:00.004-05:00

I think that it *might* have been mentioned in previous posts that the girls love Chocolate milk...and apparently one of the many reasons that they love me so :)

Girls chillin' with Uncle and watching Tom & Jerry.

Smilin' on the couch...and being still....for now!

"OH, Uncle, you are soooo funny!"

Learning to the sign to "ROCK ON" from Uncle

Laughing at Uncle's funny songs

Being silly with CC!

As always, fun time had by all.

Future Rock Stars!

2008-05-14T10:28:00.003-05:00

Maya took an instant liking to Uncle's Guitar Hero guitar and headset. She immediately moved into the role of Stage Manager for the Jonas Brothers....and warmed up the guitar, while checking in on everyone. It was hilarious. If only I had it on video!

Check...check....are you ready to rock, Jonas Brothers?

"Jenna....are you ready to rock?" (apparently Jenna is Isabela's stage name)

I see a bright future ahead for these girls :)

"Are you a mommy or an aunt?"

2008-05-09T22:45:00.003-05:00

.....sweetly asked to me this evening by Gabriela, in the car.

I replied ~ what do you think?

An AUNT, she replied....and the best one ever! :)

A few minutes later, Gabriela came into the house for a minute and she met me at the door and with the most sincere look on her face, she said...

"CC, I know that you're not a mommy yet. But I know that you will be one soon. And you're gonna be a great one. You know why?"

"Why, Gabriela?"

"Because you love me so much...and because you always buy me donuts and chocolate milk."

Well, there you have it folks! From the mouths of babes :)

As Gabriela left the house, she said..."and...oh yeah, CC? .... Happy Aunt's Day!"

I sure do love that sweet girl:)

Update on Gabriela

2008-05-07T20:16:00.002-05:00

As Gabriela puts it....she survived! Whew :) Yes, Gabriela came through her surgery with flying colors. She was extremely apprehensive about her surgery. As she was being wheeled into the operating room, she said, "Now, Dr. Rainey, I've never had surgery before. Can you go over this with me again?" Gotta love it! Quite the inquisitive child.

She did have a pretty severe ear infection in her middle ear, so they were able to clean everything out really well, put the tubes in and take out her Adenoids. Her tonsils are still in tact.

I stopped by to see her last night and while she looked a little pale and red-eyed, she was in good spirits ~ just complaining about a sore throat. She was tired of resting, though. When I came to the door, she sheepishly asked....why are you here, CC? As IF she didn't know?! :) Immediately she asked, "where are you going when you leave here?" (Which is her classic way of asking if she can go shopping with me) The girl just had surgery and she wants to go shopping....oh dear!

I stopped by today and she informed me that she is "all better", so she didn't think that she should have to have the drops put in her ears. She is literally counting the days until she doesn't have to use them (which is Sunday); apparently, they are somewhat painful. She will return to school on Friday ~ better than ever.

Thanks to all for your prayers!

Pray for Gabriela today

2008-05-06T05:48:00.002-05:00

"CC, I need to have a serious talk with you."

"Ok, Gabriela."

"CC, I have some horrible news."

"Uh-oh, what's wrong?"

"Wellllllllllllllll, (deep sigh) they're going to go in and cut open my ears!"

"Oh-no! Cut open your ears?"

"YESSSSS! I saw the pictures of it in the doctor's office!"

"Well, it'll be ok. You'll be asleep. You won't even know what's going on."

"I know what's going on."

"Remember, Maya had to have tubes put in her ears and she did just fine."

"Well, I'm not Maya."

"Indeed you are not" (how do you argue that?!)

Gabriela has been fighting very severe ear infections for the past year, along with tonsilitis. So today is the day. She will be going in at 11:30 this morning for tubes and possibly to have her tonsils and adenoids removed. She is extremely apprehensive about this so we would definitely appreciate your prayers.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Samantha!

2008-04-27T19:16:00.002-05:00

Everyone had a great time celebrating Samantha's 2nd birthday yesterday.

We love you, Samantha!

Latest of the girls

2008-04-11T11:53:00.009-05:00

Here are just a few (ha!) of the latest pictures of the girls. I'm loving my new camera!!!!

Gabriela will be 6 in June:

Isabela will be 4 in July:

Maya will be 4 in July:

Twins: Double the trouble, double the fun :)

100th Post!

2008-03-29T22:13:00.007-05:00

I can't think of a better way to celebrate my 100th post of CC's World, than to share some of my favorite pics taken today of some of the precious little ones in my life. It was our annual photo shoot with the girls and the Texas Bluebonnets.

Gabriela (5 1/2), Isabela (3 1/2), Maya (3 1/2) and Samantha (2).

Take a trip down memory lane ~ last year's bluebonnet pictures...my, have the girls grown!

Celebrating with friends....

2008-03-12T19:52:00.009-05:00

Miss Sally's little boy, Spencer, celebrated his 3rd birthday last weekend at JW Tumbles, a children's gymnastics palace.

Miss Sally was kind enough to invite 2 of her favorite girls to Spencer's party ~ Gabriela & Maya.

Isabela was unable to come as she was in Mexico with her Papi. The girls loooooove Miss Sally....they think she's the craziest & funniest lady :)

The girls had lots of fun climbing the rock wall....

walking the balance beam....sliding down slides....

catching bubbles.....

taking a ride down the zip line...

Thanks, Spencer, for inviting us to your birthday party. We had sooo much fun!!!

Friday night with Maya

2008-03-05T09:45:00.003-06:00

Friday evening was Maya's turn to go shopping with me. She couldn't wait to get going! She is so funny :) I told her that I needed to go to Target, which of course, excited her. Not because of the great deals or fun items to be found, but because she could get an Icee and popcorn. Much to her dismay, they were all out of popcorn, but she was satisfied with the Icee. We walked around the store, where Maya was quick to point out all the items she'd loooooove to have....including a St. Patrick's Day boa. Now, I am THAT aunt that buys them something everytime we're together...but I couldn't see spending $12 on this green boa! Maya asked me to buy it for her and I told her no, not this time. Maya said: "Why not, CC? Is it too expensive?" I said, yes, it is." Maya then says, "well, then at least take my picture with it" And indeed I did. Is she a cutie, or what?!

After Target we went to Walmart ~ another favorite of the girls. We went down the Easter aisles (yes, plural) and here's a little snip-it of our conversation.

M: I love you, CC

C: I love you too, Maya

M: You know who else loves you?

C: Who?

M: Jesus loves you too!

C: Yes, he does. and he loves you too!

M: I know :)

M: You know what, CC? Easter isn't about the bunnies.

C: (laughing) it's not? What's it about?

M: Easter is about Jesus.

C: You're right and what about Jesus?

M: Well, CC, he dead.

C: Yes, Jesus died. Do you know why?

M: Because he was old.

Well, at least she's got part of it right.

Of course, I didn't have the heart to tell her that CC is older than Jesus when he died....wouldn't want to frighten her!

Saturday with Isabela

2008-03-05T09:39:00.003-06:00

It was Isabela's turn to go shopping with me. We enjoyed a beautiful Saturday with stops at Petsmart to check out all the animals; then over to In The Wind, which is a fantastic flag/outdoor yard art/windchime store, where we picked out some fun Easter items for the flower beds; then to Michael's for some more Easter items; and a trip to the bank. While we were at the bank, Isabela proclaimed: "Jason's Jelly...Jason's Jelly(which by the way is actually Jason's Deli)....let's go there for lunch, CC. You get your samich, I get my fruit and we both get is-cream. Sound good, CC?" Sounds good, Isabela.

Isn't she sweet?!

Birthday Celebrations

2008-02-25T13:31:00.004-06:00

The Crews crew gathered on Friday night to celebrate Uncle's, CC's and Mimi's birthdays. With the high count of Crews' these days, it's nice to be able to combine birthday celebrations! We were so glad to see Cierra and to have her with us. The girls just love when Cierra comes to town....evidence below.

Samantha is getting big and loves to jump on the girls' trampoline. Here she is showing off :)

Sisters

2008-02-19T09:58:00.000-06:00

CC to the rescue

2008-02-16T19:43:00.004-06:00

Saturday morning 8:48am....phone rings to the sound bit of 3 little ones telling me to pick up the phone (CC, it's me Gabriela and me, Maya, and me, Isabela...pick up the phone). They recorded this voice bit a few months back.

CC: What's up? (thinking it's Ashley)
Gabriela: Um, CC, this is Gabriela
CC: Oh, hi Gabriela. What are you doing calling me so early?
Gabriela: Well, CC, Mommy is sleeping and she doesn't want to get up, but we're all up and we're STARVING! Can you please bring us some donuts?
CC: {I'm laughing hysterically because you should have heard her saying STARRRRRVVVVIING!} Sure, I can. Do you want the "usual"? (which, by the way, includes 1 dozen donut holes, one chocolate covered sprinkled glaze and one strawberry covered sprinkled glaze along with chocolate milk)
Gabriela: No, you can just bring us 4 glaze donuts. That's all.
CC: Just the plain glaze?
Gabriela: Yep, just the plain ones. Mama says the other ones are too expensive
CC: Ok, I'll get the plain glaze ones.
Gabriela: Ok, CC...but CC, you need to hurry. We really are starving!

After a 20 minute wait at Shipleys, CC was able to rescue the day and bring substance to the 3 beauties.

As it turned out, the girls all woke up very early this morning, went in to wake up Mommy, Mommy said it was way too early and to go figure out something until she got up.....apparently Gabriela did just that!

Lots of fun....

2008-02-04T08:33:00.000-06:00

Never too big to play in the crib....never too old to have fun with all the baby toys....never enough fun at CC's house.

What happens at CC's house....stays at CC's house (unless, of course, she documents with pictures and posts on her blog!)

One year ago today....

2008-01-25T19:26:00.001-06:00

Every now and then, I like to look back at my posts from the same date from the previous year. I just did and WOW! ....I can't get over how much the kiddos have grown! Enjoy the walk down memory lane.

1st Outing of 2008

2008-01-12T13:47:00.000-06:00

I arrived at the Salazar home this morning to find 2 smiling, energetic faces waiting for me at the front door. Their cute little faces plastered to the glass with shouts of CC! CC! brought immediate joy to my heart. Maya & Isabela were more than ready to head out for our 2nd adventure in painting their own pottery. I hardly had a chance to even say hi to Ash, before they were pushing me out the door. We headed out to pick up Gabriela from her other grandparents' house, as she spent the night with them last night. We pull up to the drive and there she is - waiting at the front door, all cute and ready to go.

Of course, we had to review the "painting" rules...and surprisingly, they remembered. Don't touch anything. Point to what you need and CC will give it to you. Only paint on your piece of pottery. Do not paint on anyone else's piece or anyone else, for that matter. Do not paint on your clothes, hands, feet, face, shoes, etc....you do have to be specific, because if you're not, and they paint their leg, they'll just say - but CC, you didn't say we couldn't paint on our leg. Therefore, we basically recite every body part and that way we're covered :)

Gabriela chose to paint the letter "G" to hang on her wall, as well as a small heart for Valentine's Day. Maya followed suit with the letter "M", well actually it's a "W" but we just flipped it over and I doubt that anyone else will notice. She also painted a heart. Isabela did not follow the crowd and repeated stood her ground on the fact that she was going to paint another fishie. She painted a fish the last time, and she wanted another one to add to her collection.

Gabriela is quite good with her choice of colors - everything matching, working well together ~ even added in her own polka dots without any assistance. Isabela is very serious when she paints. She is so concentrated and doesn't make a sound. I believe she must have put at least 10 coats of paint on that tiny little fish, but hey ~ that's art! Now, Maya....I believe she was done after about 4 minutes of painting...and that's while she's been looking around at anything and everything else. So, I helped her finish her artwork up.

We pile into the van, only to be asked, so CC ~ where are we going for lunch? Granted it was lunch time, but I honestly wasn't planning on taking them out. However, those 3 cute little faces and sweet little voices begged me to take them to Jason's Deli. Gabriela told me that it wouldn't cost much, because they would all share the big fruit plate and who know, CC, that's good for us. Oh ok....man! When did she get so smart? For those of you who are familiar with Jason's Deli, one of the best things about it, is the free soft serve icecream....and yes, of course, we did partake in it.

While we were eating, Gabriela hugged my neck and said, "CC, do you know how much I love you?" I said, "I bet not as much as I love you!" "Oh, CC, I love you more more more more more" "I love you more more more more, Gabriela" Then Gabriela said, "CC, I love you so much I can't even find the words." And with that, my heart was full.

What better way to spend a Saturday!

Christmas Celebrations with the Crews clan....

2008-01-03T08:13:00.001-06:00

We celebrated Christmas 3 times this year! Other than when I was traveling with the African Children's Choir (1995), this is only the 2nd time, we haven't all been able to be together on Christmas Day. We've been fortunate to have gone on for this long with being able to do that.

I've combined all the pictures from the 3 gatherings and put them on Picasa. Here is a link to the slideshow ~ enjoy!

View Album

Get your own

Good bye 2007....Hello 2008

2007-12-31T22:47:00.001-06:00

It's been another wonderful year ~ being able to spend more time with all the little ones in my life...those close to home (Gabriela, Isabela, Maya & Samantha) and those we wish lived closer (Cierra & Bobby). We had 3 different Christmas celebrations this year ~ a first for the Crews clan ~ so I need to download all the pics and organize to add to the blog. (pics to be posted later)

I remain so thankful that I have been blessed with wonderful siblings, who allow me to share sweet time with their little ones and build deeper, love-filled relationships with each one of them. It has been a true joy to be a part of their every-day lives again this year, and I look forward to many more stories, moments, pictures, videos, laughter, besos and hugs in the new year to come. To Cierra, Bobby, Gabriela, Isabela, Maya & Samantha...I love each and every one of you, just for you who are. Thank you for loving me and Uncle. We love you soooooo much!

Happy New Year everybody! Don't forget to check back often...as I'm sure 2008 will bring many more postings to the blog :)

5 years old and already a cookie critic

2007-12-11T18:44:00.000-06:00

A conversation with Isabela

2007-12-11T18:43:00.002-06:00

Silly Maya and her cookies

2007-12-11T18:43:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas from Maya!

2007-12-11T18:41:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas from Isabela!

2007-12-11T18:40:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas from Gabriela!

2007-12-11T18:36:00.000-06:00

This weekend with the girls....

2007-11-26T11:20:00.000-06:00

3 girls and a pizza place....the girls love to watch the guys at Double Dave's throw the pizza.

Enjoying candy canes picked from our tree

Silly girls "working-in" all the stuffed animals in our nursery (not sure if you can see it or not...but all the girls are in the PJ's, red rain boots, wind breakers and un-brushed hair! Gotta love it :)

Merry Christmas from Uncle, CC, Gabriela, Isabela & Maya!

Isabela, Gabriela & Maya with Uncle

Maya, Gabriela & Isabela with CC

We all made our own Christmas cookies....according to Gabriela, they were the best cookies she's ever had! Yummy!

A must....after all the cookies!

Look, CC ~ all clean!

Yet another weekend filled with lifelong memories. CC loves you soooo much!

In case you ever wondered.....

2007-11-26T11:16:00.000-06:00

if we really had a bragging spot in our house or not.......

I'm tired....

2007-11-25T16:45:00.000-06:00

I'm back from watching the girls this weekend and boy am I tired. We had plenty of fun and I took lots of pictures....but....I am too tired to blog the stories or post the pics. So, I will have to do that tomorrow.

It's now time to enjoy a few hours of resting in my comfy bed with my hubby and pup, watching all the hours of TV I have recorded on my DVR, before starting another busy week at work.

Hope you all enjoyed your Thanksgiving weekend....my days off from work seemed to have flown by WAY too quickly.

Weekend with the girls

2007-11-24T09:09:00.001-06:00

I'm just about ready to walk out the door to go over to the girls' house for the rest of the weekend. Ash & Ed are off to a wedding out of town, so CC & Uncle are watching them this weekend. We already have an agenda planned (thanks to Uncle & Gabriela) that includes: Christmas crafts, Christmas cookies, a Gingerbread House, movies and lots of laughter. It's going to be an inside day, as I have no desire to take 3 little ones out in the freezing rain today, much to their dismay!

Check back in a day or so to see pics and read the stories of what I'm sure is to be another memorable time.

By the way, I'm totally exhausted from all the Thanksgiving festivities, Christmas decorating and shopping yesterday.....my mom told me ~ ahhhhh....well, get used to it! I guess this weekend will prove just that.

Love to you all!

Gymnastic shots.....

2007-11-15T00:23:00.000-06:00

Here are a few shots that I took of the girls last week ~ hanging out after their gymnastics' class.

Highlights of the Target disaster

2007-11-13T11:04:00.001-06:00

A few weekends ago, while watching the girls, we treked out to Target. Needless to say, it was NOT an enjoyable experience (most of them are). In lieu of the long-drawn out re-inactment of the evening, I just thought I'd share some highlights....

1. Mistake # 1....allowing the girls to convince me to use the "fun" kid cart....you know the one I'm talking about....the one that looks like a car (or some other addition). Now, some of you might think ~ well, what's so wrong with that? Three kids....two seats....do the math!

2. Mistake # 2....actually believing the girls could rotate the seats nicely and not cause a fuss.

3. "Oh, look at that....3 little girls...how cute" Yeah! Real cute....NOT right now, they're not. You obviously haven't seen me giving the stern looks and repeatedly saying "no", "stop", "sit down", "be quiet", "hold it", "one more time", "Gabriela", "Isabela", "Maya", "we're out of here"......

4. Gabriela throwing a temper tantrum because I didn't let her take everything out of the cart and place it on the checkout belt.

5. All girls buckled up in the carseats and the van running but not moving. 1....2....3....4....5....6....7....8.....9.....10. Breathe, CC...breathe.

6. "Girls - I want you to sit still, do not move, do not make a sound...not one peep.....all the way home. Otherwise you will go straight to bed. Not one word. Sit there and be thinking about how you acted in Target.

7. Ahhhh....silence IS golden! I'm actually in shock that they are so quiet....they are still with me, right?! Check.....

8. Three girls file out of the car and sit on the couch. Isabela, then Gabriela, then Maya.

Conversation on the couch:

CC: Now, girls ~ What were you thinking about in the car? What do you want to say to CC?
~ silence ~ then I see a little hand raised.

CC: Yes, Isabela (I'm trying very hard not to laugh) What were you thinking about on the way home?

Isabela: "Well, CC, I was thinking.....I was thinking that I better be thinking of something!"

~ go ahead and laugh...that's what I did. I couldn't help it! It was just so darn cute.

CC: "Ok, Isabela, but what were you thinking about?"
Isabela: "Me no listen"
Gabriela chimes in: " That's right girls. We did NOT listen to CC. We were not acting right in Target and we know that we are supposed to listen to CC. CC likes to take us with her but if we keep acting like that, she will just stop. Isn't that right, CC?"
CC: "yes, that's right"
Isabela raises her hand again and once called upon says: "Me love you whole bunches, CC"
ooooohhhh man......
CC: "I love you too, Isabela"

After 3 apologies, 3 hugs and 3 I love yous.....all was right with the world again.

Now, I only share this story b/c I love those 3 little ones. Most times, I share all the good/positive stories, and for the most part they are. However, in all fairness to my sister, she of all people would love you to know that her 3 little angels are not perfect....and as much as we love them, they are challenging at times. While I am not a mother (yet!), I've had the privilege of being a big part of Gabriela, Isabela & Maya's lives. They have been my surrogate kiddos and have taught me so much about love , patience, and forgiveness. I am blessed to have such sweet and unconditional love from three beauties....and I sure do treasure the hugs, besos and "I love you's".

Gabriela's 1st Tooth

2007-11-08T09:36:00.000-06:00

Gabriela has been "playing" with that loose tooth for weeks now. It finally came out!

I just couldn't resist posting these.....priceless!

Friday night with the girls

2007-11-06T09:02:00.000-06:00

I watched the girls on Friday night....silly, crazy girls. We had fun ~ proof below :)

3 Super Girls....Halloween 2007

2007-11-02T07:44:00.000-05:00

The Butterfly.....Halloween 2007

2007-11-02T07:40:00.000-05:00

Halloween 2007.....

2007-11-01T23:00:00.001-05:00

Pictures of the 3 Super Girls and 1 cute butterfly to be posted shortly. Come back soon & see the beauties in all their glory :)

Look at these faces.....

2007-10-29T08:40:00.000-05:00

......if you owned a Chick-Fil-A, wouldn't you want these as your mascots?!?!

Another day at Gymnastics

2007-10-29T08:26:00.000-05:00

Isabela wasn't feeling well on Saturday, so I took Gabriela & Maya to their gymnastics class. They're really enjoying their classes, love Coach Megan and love that CC was there to watch them.

Gabriela showing off some of her new moves.....

and Maya too.....

Me & the girls....

2007-10-29T08:24:00.000-05:00

Mrs. Potato Head

2007-10-29T08:09:00.000-05:00

Nana found the neatest things at Target this year....Mrs. Potato Head Pumpkin Kits! Soooo much easier than carving, right?! WRONG! It's a good thing we had 4 adults for 4 children's pumpkins! Man, was it tough to get those pieces into the pumpkin!

We handed out the pumpkin kits and without even thinking about it, this is who each girl got.....

Gabriela ~ Princess Potato Head

Isabela ~ Angel Potato Head

Maya ~ Diva Potato Head

(Samantha also had an angel potato head but she's wasn't much into getting her picture taken this day.)

Rather fitting...don't you think?!

Pumpkin Patch 2007

2007-10-17T10:37:00.000-05:00

Just me and Maya

2007-10-17T09:29:00.001-05:00

It was finally Maya's turn to go shopping with CC. I watched her gymnastics class and when finished, we wisked off on the great adventure.

First stop....TARGET. And what do you think her first request was? Classic Salazar child: ICEE and POPCORN! And classic CC response....of course :)

After a run through Target, Maya tagged along through Ulta 3, where thankfully the polish bottle that broke and spilled all over the floor was NOT caused by my darling niece. We then went to Bath & Body Works, where Maya was the officially tester of the scents. Where "yucky" was her common response. She did like the Cinnamon Stick oil fragrance, so I went with that one. Next stop...Wobby Wobby (aka Hobby Lobby), where Maya kept saying....is this glass, CC? Is that glass? Is THAT glass? Interpretation.....I know not to touch but was just curious anyway. She was engrossed in all the Christmas lights, ornaments and especially the trees. She even requested one for her room. Sadly enough, I don't believe that a 7 foot tree will fit in the girls' room.

Our final stop....Chick-a-Lafe ~ and don't say, Chick-Fil-A or you will be quickly corrected by Isabela & Maya :) We ate our small chicken nuggets (Maya eats the small nuggets, Isabela & Gabriela will only eat the big strips), had a few fries and enjoyed the "memonaid". Then away she went to the wonderful world of sliding. This time was different. Maya came back quickly saying that the boys inside were being mean, not letting any of the kids slide down the slide and were yelling at her. She was quite upset. So, I did what any aunt would do......I went in there to beat up those boys (well, not really) but I did go in and ask them to leave or play nice. These boys were probably 11 years old and honestly had no business being in there with other 3, 4, and 5 year old kids. I have no idea of where their parents were either....shocker! The boys just looked at me in disbelief and continued on their way of terrorizing the kids in the play area. I told Maya to try again, and she did; and back she was saying "I give up, CC. They're just too mean."

We shared some icecream and chatted a bit. After about 10 minutes, Maya proclaimed...."I think I'm going to give it another try, CC." Another try she did and to both of our liking, those 2 boys were gone.....and squeals of laughter were ringing through the play area again.

All in all, it was a great but somewhat tiring day. Maya is a sweetie and I look forward to many more shopping sprees together.

1st day of gymnastics

2007-10-17T07:30:00.000-05:00

I went to see Isabela & Maya's first gymnastics class. Unfortunately, my camera's batteries died....but not before I was able to get at least one snapshot! And a good one at that :)

The girls have PLENTY of energy to burn and Coach Megan has lots of patience!

Gabriela is also taking gymnastics, but I will have to add pictures of her next time (when the batteries are fully charged)

Update on Isabela

2007-10-12T10:25:00.000-05:00

Here's an update from my sister, Ashley on Isabela ~ thanks for your continued prayers!
******************************************************************************

Thanks to all of you who have asked and prayed! Just wanted to let you know about Isabela's appointment today. Dr. Cleary said that Isabela looked great! Although it is not typical for ones with PFAPA to stop for such a long time with fever episodes, he still feels confident with his diagnosis. He said since nothing else has changed and she's not showing any other signs or symptoms he really doesn't feel that we need to explore other things. We talked about long term affects and some odd characteristics of PFAPA and he was great to explain a little more about it, so we feel more knowledgeable about it. So overall, his news was good. We did discuss our 3 options...1)continue to treat with motrin and hope that this too will phase out, 2)we can start the steroids, which isn't something he recommended because of long term effects of steroid usage or 3)remove her tonsils. As odd as this may sound, there have been studies that have proven that removing childrens' tonsils out "cures" PFAPA. He said there is no explanation for this, but in studies it has proven to be 100% effective. This is strange because PFAPA has nothing to do with tonsils, but for whatever reason works. So, after discussing these with him, we have decided to wait it out for a little bit. Maybe the next few months will tell us more. If her fever episodes persist, than we'll probably go forward with removing her tonsils. So, continue to pray for Isabela, and for me. Although this is not fun for her, it is so draining for me. Of course you always worry about your little ones and never want to see them sick! We'll keep you updated as the next few months hopefully will tell us more. Ashley

Maya & Isabela's 1st day of school

2007-10-05T09:56:00.001-05:00

Maya & Isabela are now in preschool two days a week. This is the first time that they've really been separated, as they are in different classes. They both seem to be enjoying it (and I believe Ashley is enjoying having a few moments to herself as well!) Here are a few snapshots of their first day of school.....

Pray for Isabela

2007-10-05T08:48:00.001-05:00

Many of you know that Isabela suffered recurrent high fevers that would occur at regular intervals for no apparent reason. As one doctor predicted, these fevers did come to a halt, and she was fever free for an entire year! But they have returned, coming at regular intervals as before. Baffling and worrisome. She will see the infectious disease doctor here Oct. 11. Pray for wisdom, insight, and most all, healing for her. At three years old, this is a lot for a little one to bear. She sure is a cutie-pie!

Another Sam's encounter

2007-10-02T08:37:00.001-05:00

In the past month or so, every time I go to Sam's, I run into Ashley and the girls. Kinda funny really. Sunday's visit was no different.

As I was going down the middle aisle, heading towards the checkout, I hear "CC! CC!" Sure enough, Ash & Ed were there with the girls. Gabriela came running up to me, while Isabela & Maya were in the cart. I was greeted with big smiling faces and questions like "What are you doing here? What are you buying? When did you get here? Did you know I was going to be here? Can I go home with you?" I think you get the picture.

However, here's a little conversation I had with Gabriela:

G: "CC, I was looking down the store and I thought I saw you, but then I said to myself, no, that's not CC. Then I look up again and there you were again and I said to myself, yes, that is CC!"

CC: "Well, I'm glad that you saw me."
G: "CC, remember the last time we came to Sams we saw you then too?"
CC: "Yes, I remember"
G: "And you know what, CC? I'm pretty sure you were wearing the same outfit that day too!"
CC: laughingly...."Well you're probably right....aren't you lucky to have seen me wear this twice!?"

A little while later, we went our separate ways but ended up standing next to each other in line.

G: "CC, look at my new lipstick. I just bought it at Walmart."
CC: "Wow, that's really pretty. I was just at Walmart too!"
G: "What? You were at Walmart too? Whoa.... You know what, CC? I think we might be following you on accident!"

These are the types of accidents I don't mind having :)

Just me and Isabela

2007-09-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

Today was a first....it was just me and Isabela. I have been promising the girls for a while now that we'd start to take turns on who gets to go shopping with CC. Gabriela has had more than her share of shopping trips, and assumes that she will join me on all my trips, including today. Now that Isabela & Maya can sit in the booster seat, it's much easier to take one of them with me. Today was Isabela's turn. She was soooo excited. She got all dressed up and her hair in the cutest pigtails, all ready to go when I got there. Maya was quick to say "Me go next time myself with you, CC?" Interpretation: Yes, Maya, you will go with me next time, all by yourself. She was happy and on her way. Gabriela, on the other hand, was not. A slight meltdown occurred when I actually left with just Isabela in the car. When I later dropped Isabela off, Gabriela said, so, after you take Maya next time, it will be my turn, right? Yes, Gabriela, after Maya, you'll go next. OK, CC...so when are you taking Maya? Ahhhh...the timing begins :)

Isabela and I had such a wonderful time together. We trekked off to IKEA (about 25 minute drive) and we talked the entire way there. It's amazing what a 3 year old can bring up in conversation ~ anything from her new school and teachers, to what she had for dinner last night, to singing her ABCs, to making animal sounds, to reciting each person's name in the family, to requesting music on the radio. It brought back memories of my car ride conversations with Gabriela a few years back.

"CC, can you put in Rassal Fatts?" (for those of you who don't know what she's referring to.....it's Rascal Flatts) and away we went to singing the songs together.

Isabela was just fascinated with IKEA. She wanted to sit in every room and try out every couch, chair, etc. She thought every room was just "sooooo pretty". She was quite the trooper; not one complaint. She stood by me the entire time, held my hand, looked and didn't touch and did all of that on her own, without being told. (what a concept!)

Isabela has such a sweet, tender heart. She is such a lover. I lost count of how many times she looked at me and said, "CC, I love you so much." And when I would tell her "I love you, too, Isabela." she would respond, "thank you."

Thank you, Isabela for loving CC so much and for spending the day with me. It'll be your turn again soon.

CC ~ the brave one :)

2007-09-08T22:11:00.000-05:00

Yes, I braved it today.....I took Gabriela, Isabela & Maya to The Potter's Wheel to paint their own pottery today. Gabriela and I did this a few weeks back and we needed to pick up her finished pony and cross that she painted. She had such a great time and I knew that Isabela & Maya would like it too....so.....I decided to brave it up, take the plunge and enjoy the adventure.

There were a few rules discussed before entering The Potter's Wheel:

1. You must sit in your chair at all times.
2. You cannot touch anything in the store (ceramic and plaster everywhere!!)
3. You can only paint one item.
4. You can only put paint on your item.
5. You cannot put paint on anything else. You cannot paint your face. You cannot paint your hands. You cannot paint your clothes. You cannot paint on anyone else's piece of pottery.
6. You cannot touch anyone else's paint.
7. Repeat at least two times :)

I gave the girls a few options of what they could choose to paint. Gabriela chose a sugar bowl from a tea set so that she could put some of her jewelry in it. Isabela chose a cute blowfish and Maya chose a daisy flower.

They all chose to paint in their favorite colors of pink, purple, yellow and blue.

Maya was so concerned about the painting rules ~ and she should've been, since she's the one who always likes to paint everything but what she should be painting! She's a free spirit for sure. Every now and then, Maya would say ~ "CC, I'm doing really good over here....I listened." Indeed!

The bribery worked and the reward for good behavior was a trip to Chick Fil A for lunch. Just a few snapshots of 2 very sweet but silly girls...

Yet another fun filled day with the girls; yet another wonderful memory made.

New pics of the girls

2007-08-27T15:21:00.001-05:00

Gabriela's 1st day of School

2007-08-27T15:15:00.003-05:00

Saturday with Gabriela (updated with pics 8/28/07)

2007-08-27T15:15:00.001-05:00

I spent the day with Gabriela on Saturday. It was our time to celebrate the big moment - first day of school! It's still hard to believe that Gabriela started Kindergarten today! (See pictures posted in the next blog)

We started off with a trip to the car wash (which Gabriela informed me the car was in desperate need of). While at the car wash, we shared a bag of free popcorn and the only drink in the coke machine, a Diet Coke. We then proceeded to Target, where I told Gabriela we were going to shop for some new clothes for school.

G: "But, CC, I already got a new outfit for my first day of school. I can't wear more than one outfit."
CC: "There will be other days, Gabriela."
G: "Oh yeah, you're right. Let's get shopping!"

And off we went. I told Gabriela to pick out a FEW things that she liked and put them in the basket. Then we would evaluate the choices and go from there. She picked out one dress, then another, and another and oh yeah, one more, a pair of jeans, 2 t-shirts, 1 (UGLY UGLY) jacket and (just as ugly) pants and 2 sweat-suits. WOW! That's a lot of stuff and much more than what I was looking to get...but I did tell her to pick things out.

CC: "Ok, Gabriela, these are all the things that you like but remember, CC can't buy all of these for you. You're going to have to choose."
G: "Yes, I know....you're CC, not Tia" (referring to her more wealthy aunt :) {Indeed I am}
CC: "You can have 2 dresses (eliminated from 4), 1 pair of pants (choice of 5) and 2 shirts."

After much deliberation, she picked out her favorites and away we were. But not before hitting the school supply aisle, JUST IN CASE, there was something there she couldn't live without! Sure enough, we found it! A folder with puppies on it. I figured I could splurge the 99 cents!

(I didn't get any pics of Gabriela with her clothes, but clothes-horse Maya managed to try on one of Gabriela's new dresses to model for us)

Off to lunch.....
CC: "Where do you want to go for lunch?"
G: "How about the hog dog place (aka James Coney Island).
CC: "Sure, the hot dog place it is."
{driving by Olive Garden.....}
G: "Noooooo wait, we need to go to Olive Garden. I want their bread and fettuccine and Black Tie Moussecake."
CC: "Isn't there some other place we can go? (I really did not want to go to Olive Garden) She was quite adamant that Olive Garden was the place to go. Thankfully, we soon drove by FUDDRUCKERS....
G: "Noooo, let's go to Fuddruckers."
CC: "Ok, sure!" And I immediately turned in, before she could change her mind.

Once we were finished with our lunch, Gabriela and I went to The Potter's Wheel - a paint your own pottery store. Gabriela had never done this type of painting before and she just had a great time. She was able to pick out a stand-up pony and a cross to paint. I'll just leave the pictures to show the great time we had and what a creative artist she is!
Whew ~ what a day. Gabriela didn't want to go home, but the day had come to an end. We were tired but made some incredible memories. Can you say just a little bit tired? ha!

Gabriela is such a sweet and bright child (wonder who's influence that is caused by? ;) She really is a joy to my heart. It was fun to spend the day with you Gabriela. CC loves you sooo much! I hope that you have the best time in Kindergarten this year...and yes, I'll be sure to come and have lunch with you one day at school real soon!

A few funny stories....

2007-08-23T18:39:00.000-05:00

I stopped by to see the girls the other day - unannounced...oh my! I was greeted at the door by 3 jubulant faces and the ring of CC everywhere. Then boom....the firing squad hit with the questions....

Gabriela: "Why are you here, CC? It's not Saturday? Why aren't you working?" "What's a vacation day?" "Are you going somewhere?"Isabela: "Where's Uncle? Is he working?"Maya: "CC....love you. Do you have any gum? Can I have some gum?"

See where I actually fit in there? ha!

Reading books
The girls wanted me to read some books to them, so they picked out some really old books that we haven't read in a while. Isabela picked out one called "My Food - Mi Comida" It's one that shows the foods in English and Spanish. Before I could start, Gabriela saw the book and proceeded to say:

G: "CC, I don't what to read any books in Spanish. You can't speak Spanish."
C: "I can read this book in Spanish. I know how to speak Spanish." So I began to read the book to Isabela.
G: "Wow, CC, I was wrong. You do know how to speak Spanish. Pretty good!"

Call the Police!
Maya & Isabela decided to play hairdresser with me; messing up my hair, pretending to wash it, put barretts and pony tails in, etc. Here's a glimpse into our conversation:

I: "CC, you have beautiful hair. Let me wash it for you. Ok, good. Let me put a bow in it and a barrett and a pony tail and....oh CC, you have a big "sketa" bite on your neck (which was true)."
C: "Yep, I sure do."
I: "Maya, pick up the phone. Call the police. CC has a "sketa" bite on her neck and she needs help."
M: {picking up my cell phone and pretending to dial} "Hello, Police? We need help. My CC has a "sketa" bite. You need to hurry." {hanging up the phone, she then looks right at us and says} "The police are on their way. They'll help you, CC!"

Maya then proceeds to look at me with that side-crossed eyes and smirk and says:
"CC, I was pretending. The police really aren't coming to help you. Sorry"
.....too cute.....

Going anywhere?

As you all know from previous posts, the girls, Gabriela especially, like to go shopping with me. Yesterday was no exception. As I was getting ready to head out, Gabriela asks:

G: "So, CC, where are you going after you leave here?"
C: "No where really."
G: "You don't need to go anywhere?" (asking in disbelief)
C: "Nope"
G: "You're not out of anything in your house?" -- this would be the hint to go to Walmart
C: "no - I don't think so."
When Maya chimes in...."Yes, you are CC. You are out of gum."
G: "Ah-ha, CC....see, you are out of something. You need to go to Walmart to get some more gum."
Indeed, I was out of gum, but I wasn't in the mood to trek to Walmart for it. Shopping with CC would have to wait until another day.

I realize that I'm biased, but are these 3 smart girls or what? Must have something to do with the genes :)

Car seats....

2007-07-27T22:29:00.000-05:00

Because Maya & Isabela are in carseats and Gabriela is in a booster car seat, it's easier for me to take Gabriela with me places, than one of the twins. It's a major hassle to take out the car seats and get them back in the van, etc. So if I do take all 3 girls with me somewhere, I just take their van. So, Maya & Isabela know that they can't go in CC's car since I don't have a car seat.....until tonight.

I went over to Ashley's tonight to get some things she's graciously allowed us to borrow in preparation for our adoption home visit. (Even though we don't know what we're getting, we still have to be prepared?! Don't get me started on this one here.....) Thankfully, she has an extra (or 2) beautiful cribs not being used, as well as an extra car seat.

The ever ingenius Maya saw me putting the car seat in my car and here's what transpired next....

Maya: "Oh, CC ~ you are taking that car seat and putting it in your car?"

CC: "Yes, Maya. Mommy's going to let CC use it."

Maya: "Ohhhhhhh reallllllllllly...." (now, you can tell by looking at her that she believes she's made an incredible discovery) ****this pic taken at Maya's b'day party is the perfect example of the look on her face as she talks to me tonight....*******

Maya: "Guess that means that you have to take me with you in your car now. You can't leave me here anymore."

CC: "Well, yes, Maya, I guess it does!"

And they say that kids don't listen to you......ha!

Day with the girls

2007-07-23T11:26:00.001-05:00

On Saturday, I braved it and took all 3 girls to Chuck E Cheese by myself! We've gone before but there was always an extra set of hands. It's rather difficult to keep watch over 3 with just 2 hands but we managed to survive and have lots of fun in the process.

Before we got to Chuck E Cheese, I had a conversation with the girls...I wish I had videotaped it!

CC: Now, girls, we're going to Chuck E Cheese. Who do you need to stay with at all times?
Girls: CC!
CC: Who's hand do you hold?
Girls: CC!
CC: Who do you stand by?
Girls: CC!
CC: Who do you go home with?
Girls: CC!
CC: (not knowing what they knew about strangers, I then asked) Do you know what a stranger is?
Gabriela: No, CC, what is a stranger?
CC: It is someone that you do not know.
Gabriela: So, CC, you're not a stranger, right?
CC: Right, Gabriela.
CC: So, what do you do if someone comes up to you that you don't know?
Gabriela: Run, girls, run! Run as fast as you can, scream for CC and try to find CC as fast as we can.
CC: That's right! (I was happy to know that!)

So, we go into CEC, get stamped, order our pizza, get our drinks, and start to divide the tokens. Gabriela tried to be a little sneaky and give herself a few extras, but we fixed that. We went out for a few games and rides before lunch and started gathering all the tickets. At one point, Gabriela came up to me and said...

"Oh, CC, I looked to my right and you weren't there. Thank goodness you were on my left! I thought I lost you!" (had to laugh!)

Here are a few shots of the serious fun the girls were having.....

We had our pizza, enjoyed our time together eating, and then went back to the floor to finish the tokens off.

Once we were done with CEC, we went to the mall to play on the big playground there and play with the puppies at the pet store. We couldn't leave without a cookie and Coke Icee from the Cookie Company. We formed a choo-choo train in the mall.....all of us holding hands. I'm sure a few people were wondering about the slow hold up ahead but that's ok....we were having a good time and those in a rush, could always walk around us.

By the time I close the door after getting all 3 girls in their carseats and I get in the van, I look back to say something and see all 3 girls fast asleep! Wow! That didn't take long....guess I tired them out.

As always, I loved the time spent with Gabriela, Isabela & Maya. Always a joy to have around ~ they bring much love and laughter to my heart. Love you girls!

Birthday party for 3 lovely girls....

2007-07-09T08:41:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe, but Gabriela turned 5 in June and Maya & Isabela turned 3 in July. Because their birthdays are just a few weeks apart, we had a joint birthday celebration. Here are just a few (ha!) snapshots of the day's major event!

Chinta did a wonderful job on the girls' cakes. Each of them had their very own. There was plenty of cake to go around! I don't know if you can see it or not, but the first cake was Gabriela's and Chi actually cut out a picture of Gabriela's face and hands and put them on the cake!

And the girls had so much fun blowing out their candles....

The girls are really into My Little Pony right now, so Gabriela informed me that I would be getting them the pony stuff. Gabriela had been very specific on which pony she wanted.... Yellow Pony with pink hair and a purple hairbrush! Are you kidding me?! I told Gabriela that I would do my best but that sometimes things don't always come the way you want them. She quickly replied, "CC, I'm sure that you will find it and get it for me." No pressure. I searched high and low for that particular pony and could not find it anywhere. I was actually beginning to stress out about it. I guess this is what a parent feels like at Christmas time, trying to find that one particular toy that their child wants. Well, on Gabriela's actual birthday, I called to wish her a happy birthday. She was at Nana & Dandy's and Nana gave her a small gift that day....the pony barn. Here's what Gabriela said....

"CC, you're never going to believe what Nana & Dandy gave me today?"

"What did you get, Gabriela?"

"I GOT A PONY BARN!" (please note all caps, as she was basically screaming it out in excitement).

"Wow, that's great Gabriela...I'm sure you'll have lots of fun with it."

"Yep, I sure will, CC. I got the barn....now all I need is the pony!" I had to laugh ~ if she only knew how much I had gone through to get that specific pony....doesn't she know that I know that she needs that pony? ha!

Well, I finally found the pony. YES! Thank you Target store #4. The next day I head out to Ashley's to watch the girls when Gabriela says she wants to ask me about her birthday present ~ I knew the subject would come up.

G: "CC, you know, tomorrow we're having our birthday party."

C: "Yes, I know. Uncle & I will be there."

G: "Can you tell me about my present? How big is it? Is it what I've been wanting? You're getting me the pony house, right?"

C: (inside my head)....ummmmm...wait a second...pony house? Are you kidding me? Pony house???? What happened to the yellow pony with pink hair and a purple brush?! afte rmuch deliberation in my mind, I respond: "You'll just have to wait and see tomorrow."

G: "Well, I know that I asked you for the pony house before but you said you weren't going to get that for me, so just thought I'd ask now."

C: "Guess you'll just have to wait and see tomorrow."

So, what do you think CC did that night? Yep, went back to Target, returned the pony and bought Gabriela the pony house. Here's a picture of Gabriela opening up her gift from CC & Uncle.

I wish I had videotaped her reaction...it was priceless. Needless to say, she was more than excited about her house. She looked at the bag sheepishly, knowing that it was too large to have just the one pony in it. She said, "Um, CC....is this what I think it is?" She preceeded to open the bag and said, "CC, this is a pony house! A pony house! One that I've never seen before!" [apparently, she hadn't seen this particular one before, but thankfully it was approved :) ]

So help me, if Gabriela ever brings up the yellow pony with pink hair and a purple brush again....

Maya & Isabela loved Gabriela's pony barn so much that they wanted one for themselves. You can't buy just one of anything anymore....must be times 3!

Maya & Isabela loved the pony house too!

In the end, a fun time was had by all......and thankfully we have a whole year to prepare for birthdays #6, #4 and #4!

Happy Birthday Gabriela, Isabela & Maya.....we love you all so very much!

Fashion Show 2007

2007-07-09T08:38:00.000-05:00

The girls love to play dress up and put on a fashion show. So, as the girls say......Ladies and Gentleman....are you ready for the fashion show? Here are Princess Fiona, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella!

Happy 5th Birthday, Gabriela!

2007-07-09T08:36:00.001-05:00

Gabriela enjoyed spending the night over at Nana & Dandy's house for her 5th birthday. As you can see, she had lots of fun making cupcakes and being the Princess for the Day!

Father's Day 2007

2007-07-09T08:34:00.000-05:00

Just a few snapshots of the kiddos while celebrating Father's Day at Fuddruckers.

Gabriela's hair

2007-06-25T08:49:00.000-05:00

Gabriela came in to the house on Saturday, as they were dropping off Maya & Isabela. I had to take a picture of her with her pretty hair-do. She was just too cute. She turned 5 last week...hard to believe!

Gabriela's friend had a dress-up/fashion show party at the Mall. Here are the before and after pictures of Gabriela.

Now, that's what I call hair! Boy, was she proud of her "do"!

Maya & Isabela

2007-06-25T08:31:00.001-05:00

Maya & Isabela came over to spend the afternoon with us on Saturday, while Gabriela went to a friend's birthday party. We had a great time together. They immediately come into the house, open up the DVD cabinet and pick out a DVD to watch. As you can see, Isabela chose The Incredibles.

After watching the movie, we fixed one of their favorite lunches....corndogs and cheetos! Yummy! The girls just love the window seat in the kitchen. They call it their perfect table.

The girls adore their Uncle and had lots of fun with him on the couch!

After all the fun, we all went to the big bed and took a nap. Boy was that interesting. Maya is a wiggle worm...is anyone surprised? Isabela is as still as anything. Again, surprised? We had a great time and love having the girls over. As they were leaving, the girls give us besos and thank us for having them over. Maya looks me straight in the eyes and says, "CC, thank you for taking care of me today. I love you sooooooo much. Miss you until next time, ok, CC?" I'll miss you too. Love you!

Waiting for Nana & Dandy

2007-06-18T08:45:00.001-05:00

My mom and dad, now known as Nana & Dandy, were returning from their 2 week missions trip to Kenya on Friday and I was picking them up at the airport. I thought it would be fun to bring Gabriela along for the ride and surprise Nana & Dandy. She agreed!

Their flight was scheduled to arrive at 8:08pm and we arrived a few minutes early. Gabriela has a huge fascination with airplanes so we drove around a few times, checking out all the planes taking off and landing, rolling down the windows so that she could listen to the engines roar and enjoying every minute of it. That is, until a few minutes turned into 20 minutes, then 40 minutes and then over an hour...and finally the wait was over 1 hour and 10 minutes later. Yikes!

Gabriela just couldn't understand why it was taking so long. Didn't Nana & Dandy know that we were outside waiting for them? Why can't we go inside? Why do we have to keep going in circles? Why won't the man just let us park the car here? Why do we have to be the ones to pick up Nana & Dandy? Can you just take me home, CC, and the airplane can just drop Nana & Dandy off at home? I could go on...but I think you get the idea.

On one of our last circles around Terminal A, Gabriela informed me of the following: "CC, let me just tell you something. This is the last time that we come to pick up Nana & Dandy at the airport. Someone else in the family can do it next time." ~ ha! At the time, I couldn't have agreed more :) I think next time, I'll just leave the little ones behind and go at it alone with a book in the cell phone lot and wait for my dad to call and tell me they've landed.

Here's a little video I took while we were waiting...it captures us waiting as well as Gabriela's fascination with airplanes...enjoy!

Overnight Watch

2007-05-29T08:40:00.000-05:00

Ashley & Ed were able to get away for the long weekend without the girls, but in order to do that, they needed to have babysitters available :) Friday night, the girls' Tia Marisol and Tio George stayed with them, then Saturday night was Nana & Dandy's turn, and then Sunday night was our turn. This was the first time we had watched all three girls overnight before and they did great.

We went to have pizza at Cici's Pizza (which the girls thought was really funny, since they call me CC). However, the food for horrible. We will NOT be returning to that facility again. After dinner, we walked over to Petco to see all the animals - I think all the girls should become vets! They love those animals. We returned home and they took a bubble bath in Mommy's big bath tub, and this experience was much better than the last time I bathed all 3 of them together! I think it helps with them being older this time around :). We then settled in for the night with a new Garfield movie; thankfully one that I had not seen before!

You know when you're asleep and you can just feel someone staring at you? Well, I had that sensation times 3 on Monday morning. I turn over and see 3 little faces just staring at me. Gabriela then says, "Oh good, CC. You're finally up. We're ready for breakfast!" I offered waffles but donuts were more inline with what they wanted. So, we packed everyone up in the car and drove through the donut drive-thru, came back to the house, ate breakfast, played Dora Candyland at least 8 times (we had to keep going until everyone won an equal amount of times!) and then colored some pretty pictures.

We had a great time together but can you believe that I didn't take one picture the entire time! Even as I was leaving, Gabriela said, "Um, CC...you know what? You didn't take one picture of us this whole time! I guess you've learned we haven't changed much since the last time." Oh the logic of an almost-5 year old.

I am including though, pictures from a previous visit....enjoy :)

Twins....Double the pleasure! Double the fun!

2007-05-15T15:33:00.000-05:00

Maya & Isabela enjoying their frozen fruit snacks. Double the fun....double the mess!

Picture Perfect

2007-05-15T15:28:00.000-05:00

I watched the girls on Friday night and of course, I brought my camera! I took this one right before we all sat down to watch the latest Veggie Tales movie. Once the picture is taken, I always here "let me see, let me see". Gabriela, who is an amateur photographer in her own right, took the camera, pushed the appropriate buttons to review the pics and here's a recap of what she said:

"Oh my goodness. Girls! Girls! Look! It's perfect! We did a great job! We are all looking at CC! We all have our eyes open and we are all smiling! We're perfect!" Perfect indeed....

The love of 3 little ones

2007-05-05T21:15:00.000-05:00

I went over to see the girls last night, as I hadn't been able to spend much time with them lately ~ between us all being sick. I knocked on the door and suddenly 3 little faces were glaring at me through the beveled glass, trying to see who it might be. When all of a sudden the sounds of..."It's CC, it's CC!" Gabriela unlocked the door (she's can't open it up) and I walked in and found the 3 sweetest girls waiting for me with besos, smiles and of course, arms in my purse searching for gum. I guess I will forever be known as the "one with gum". They had just finished their baths and were starting to watch Turner & Hooch, the movie with Tom Hanks. I absolutely love that movie. It was so entertaining to watch it with the girls, as they provided me a play by play, moment by moment account of what was happening and going to happen. Even though I had seen this movie many times, it was fun to experience it with them all over again.

As I sat on the couch and watched Turner & Hooch with the girls, I was overwhelmed at how much these 3 little ones truly love me. I had Gabriela to my right, Isabela to my left and Maya on my lap. All three were snuggled up next to me, on me, touching me, hugging me, kissing me. At one point Maya turned around on my lap, faced me and said, "CC, miss you so much" and gave me the biggest hug. I told her that I had missed her too.

{A little background into the next story: I have always taken Gabriela with me to go shopping - always been our thing. Well the last time we went, Isabela was just devastated that I didn't take her with me. It's hard to do so because of the car seat situation. However, I did promise her that I would take her next and by herself, then Maya and then Gabriela could have another shopping trip with me. Gabriela was not too happy about it but finally agreed}

About an hour later, I told the girls that I needed to leave. Isabela said that she was going with me and the next thing we knew, she left the living room and came back with her shoes on and her purse in hand. She was ready for her shopping trip with CC. I told her that we couldn't go right now (it was 9pm). She quickly told me "CC, you said my turn next shopping. Me go with you." "Yes, you're right but it's too late. I promise to take you next time."....to which Gabriela said, "well, I can go with you too, right, CC?" I just looked at her and smiled but didn't say anything. I guess she understood the look because she responded...."I know, I know...it's Isabela's turn. Well, can you at least bring me back some gum?" Ha - it never fails!

I really am so blessed to have those 3 little girls in my life....and no greater word has been shrieked before to me than "CC!"

Samantha's 1st Birthday

2007-05-02T08:47:00.000-05:00

Samantha turned 1 on April 25th and John & Jenny had a swimming party this past weekend to celebrate. Unfortunately, Samantha wasn't too keen of the water, but Gabriela, Isabela & Maya had a ball.

A typical conversation

2007-04-10T17:50:00.000-05:00

Here is a typical 2 minute conversation with a 4 1/2 year old and two 2 1/2 year old girls....from the etiquette of chewing gum to a discussion of movies to the making of animal sounds....enjoy this glimpse into CC's World!

Crazy Maya

2007-04-10T15:14:00.000-05:00

Here is a short video I took when talking to Maya the other day....it is just too funny not to share :) I just love her facial expressions.

A few snapshots of the girls at Easter

2007-04-09T13:52:00.000-05:00

More pics from Bluebonnet Day 2007.....

2007-03-31T16:12:00.000-05:00

Bluebonnets 2007

2007-03-30T23:41:00.000-05:00

Today, I took a half day off from work so that I could enjoy the fun of picture day in the Bluebonnets. My friend, Sally, decided a month or so ago that she really wanted to make Easter pictures fun this year and went out and bought the farm....that's right....she ended up with 4 bunnies, 18 dye-colored chicks and 1 baby duck :) When she told me this, I knew that Ashley would want to have the girls take pictures with them....so that's what we did today.

Imagine this....3 photographers, a 4 1/2 year old, twin 2 1/2 year olds and a nearly 1 year old with 4 bunnies, 18 chicks and 1 duck...on the side of Lake Woodlands Parkway taking pictures in the Bluebonnets.....fun time indeed. Here are just a few of the (many) pics that I got today. Enjoy the beauties :)

Fun in the Sandbox!

2007-03-30T07:18:00.000-05:00

Last weekend, I watched the girls and we had a great time playing outside in the sandbox.

Three of the prettiest faces I could ever love :)

Party at the Thompsons!

2007-03-19T09:08:00.000-05:00

We finally have room to have everyone over! YEAH! Michael & I have moved into a new house and wanted to have all the Crews crew over for BBQ...fun times indeed. So much fun that I only got 2 pictures taken the whole evening. Here's one of all the kiddos (except Samantha - she was enjoying her vacation in CO with Mommy and Daddy).

Who needs a kiddie table...when you have the floor?!?!

More fun times to come, I'm sure :)

Potty Training times 2!

2007-02-26T10:49:00.000-06:00

Maya & Isabela are in the midst of potty training and I couldn't resist being able to document this moment...I'm sure they'll appreciate this when they're older (ha!)

I failed to get a picture of their sweet reward....M&Ms!!!!

Random shots

2007-02-20T10:42:00.001-06:00

Stopped by to see the girls yesterday on my day off.....just a few random shots of their sweet, smilin' faces :)

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More Valentines....

2007-02-16T10:09:00.001-06:00

Random Pictures from my time with the girls on Saturday night....baking cakes, dancing in the kitchen, fashion shows and plenty of laughter!

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Happy Valentines Day 2007

2007-02-16T09:33:00.000-06:00

I was able to go over last Saturday to watch the girls, while Ash & Ed went to a birthday party. I took this opportunity to celebrate Valentine's Day with the girls. I bought each girl their own heart-shaped cake pan. We all made the chocolate cake, with each one taking their turn in mixing the cake batter and consequently, eating quite a bit of batter too! We then filled the cake pans and waited (not so patiently) for the 4 cakes to bake and cool. Once cooled, it was time to decorate! Chocolate cake, chocolate icing, decorating red and pink writing icing, hard candies hearts, and 6 different types of sprinkles....all the elements for a disaster or a ton of fun...just depends! Maya started eating her cake before icing it, Isabela kept putting her knee in her iced cake and Gabriela couldn't put enough sprinkles on her cake. Oh yeah, and let's add in that I had all three girls striped down and sitting on the counter....fun times indeed.

Here are just a few pictures to see how it all went.....enjoy! (we did!)

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2007-01-25T09:04:00.000-06:00

Latest Pics of all the kids....Smile everybody!

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2007-01-20T13:58:00.000-06:00

More shopping conversations with Gabriela.....

In the midst of my quick stop into Sam's this morning, but who do I see....Gabriela, Isabela & Maya, all in their matching jackets, sitting in the cart while Mommy shops. Smiling faces and greetings of "CC" filled the air and no matter how many times I see those sweet faces, my heart can't help but leap a little and a huge grin cover my face.

Gabriela quickly removed herself from her cart and wanted to get into mine and shop with me. This is often a difficult situation as Maya & Isabela would like to do the same. So Ashley & I will switch carts, to give everyone a chance to be with the other :)

While shopping, Gabriela wanted to know if she could leave with me. Mommy said yes, so we checked out, and left off for more adventures. Gabriela and I had so many great little conversations today, that I thought I would just give you some tidbits.

While at Wal-mart:

{when told that we weren't going to get an icee and popcorn} "But CC, I don't need to eat lunch. I think an Icee and popcorn will do just fine."

{Lunchables and Toys}
"CC, can you buy me a ham and cheese and cracker box {lunchable}?"
"Sure, is this one okay?"
"Yes, CC, but I think I need you get me 4."
"4? Why 4?"
"Well, I got to school for 3 days next week and then one for today...so that would be 4."
"Well, how about just one for today?"
"Ok, CC, that's fine, so how about taking me to the toy section?"
"Sure, Gabriela, but I'm not buying you anything...you have plenty of toys and just got new ones at Christmas."
"Oh I know, but I need to look for my birthday."
"But your birthday is not for a few months."
"Yes, CC, I know...my birthday is in June, but it's never too early to look"

{reading labels and spelling things out}
"M A Y O N N A I S E - what does that spell, CC?"
"Mayonnaise"
"Oh, that's a really big word and you know what? I don't like mayonnaise."
"H E L L M A N S - what does that spell, CC?"
"Hellmans"
"Oh, CC - that's a bad word!"
"No, Gabriela, that's the name of the mayonnaise."
"No, CC, Mommy says that hell [whispered] is a bad word. So don't say that again."
"You're right Gabriela."
"Yes, I know." {smiling :) }

{when looking at movies on DVD}
"CC, I think these cartoons would be great to have at my house."
"I don't think that you'd like those cartoons Gabriela {like Mighty Mouse and original Superman, etc}
"CC, I believe that you would be wrong about that."
"Really, Gabriela?"
"Really, CC"

{thoughts on chewing gum}
"CC, would you like a piece of my gum?"
"No, thank you Gabriela"
"But, CC, I have gum. I HAVE to share."
"Ok, then, I'll have a piece. Thank you."
"You're welcome. Now, CC, remember, you need to keep the gum in your mouth, spit it out when you're done. If I see that you swallowed it, that will be your last piece of gum today. Plus, we can only have one piece today because it will be too much sugar for a little person." {and we wonder if children listen to what we say?!}

{on our way down the street}
"Oh, CC....where do you think you're going? We need to go to P E T C O [spelled out] to see the turtles, snakes, rats and birdies.
"Ok, Gabriela - let's go check it out"

{on ordering at Chic-Fil-A}
"CC, remember, I don't do the little chicken. I only do the big chicken. Oh yeah, and a leche [milk] too."

{on returning home}
"CC, this has been a great day. Thank you so much for letting me go with you. I think I did a good job today.
"Yes, Gabriela - you were very good today."
"You know what, CC?"
"What Gabriela?"
"I love you so much."
"I love you so much."
"No, CC, I think I love you more"
"Gabriela, I think I love you the most"
"Well, how about we love each other the same"
"Ok - love you the same"

I love the conversations that I have with Gabriela. She's becoming such a little lady but has quite the timing and sense of humor, with a little bit of sass. My mom says that Gabriela reminds her of "someone" all the time....I wonder who my mom could be thinking of! :)

2007-01-17T16:54:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures taken today with the girls....as you can see, they were all happy and in good spirits!