The Waiting

New Years Resolution

2010-01-04T21:46:00.000-08:00

LET IT DIE.

Yep.

THIS BLOG IS OVER.

I LOVED BEING OFF THE COMPUTER WHILE AWAY. With more and more time on the computer for photography work, I can't bare to bullshit away at two blogs. Check my photo one for some personal bits in the mix... like, our trip to Australia.

Thanks for reading.

Chow!

Two of the Same

2009-12-09T05:21:00.000-08:00

Exhibit 1.

Exhibit 2.

Look at this beaut mushy we found straight out of
Alison and Wonderland.

Lazy Days Ahead

2009-12-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

I'm terrible at keepin' this blog up. However, I am good about postin on my other photography one. Thinking about merging the two. Hmmmm...

Freezing weather rolled in today, but we are flying out on Friday to some warmer days in Australia. I CAN'T WAIT!! All Rod's family will be there. The kids have 5 little cousins under the age of 5. Should be tons of laughing, chasing, lounging, playing, and memories made. We are spliting a house with Rod's brother Russel and his wife and two lil' girls. Maybe I'll post from there? His parents computer seems like dial mode on most days though.

Here are a few from a lazy weekend following Rod up to 4 mile for a surf.

Eventful Day

2009-10-14T22:02:00.000-07:00

Luke insists on wearing shorts. Everyday. Even if it means wearing them under his pants. Pants that on this day were tucked into his rainboots. He looked awesome with a I ride horses kind of look to them. After our successful morning of Luke dressing himself and asking to practice writing some letters (a first sign in wanting to learn), we were off to get Bella from school.

After three days of rain and a sick Luke on quarantine, we split down to the skate park once the sun poked its face at us! Bella had a minimum day and we were home eating and out the door before the sun could hide its face again. With Luke on Bike and Bella and I rockin' the Razors, we blazed down Swift Street toward Derby Park, aka, "the local skate park."

Off we go, a 1/2 mile down Swift and what? what?! WHAT"S? THAT? I swear I saw a worthy flash/ shine of some sort. With the kids two blocks ahead, I spit a fierce command to hold up at the next driveway while I doubled back to investigate. Behold, it is a diamond ring all tweaked into a size 3 ring and looking bent. With the kids far beyond my motherly comfort zone I shove it in my back pocket to get back to later.

As the kids weave in and out of the skate bowl dodging pine cones from the recent storm, I fish out my new find from my back pocket. I try the skewed ring on for size on my pinkie. It must be triple the size of my wedding ring diamond. Quickly sizing it up, I conclude it is at least three quarters of a Karat and can't wait to get a proper appraisal!! Ka-Ching.

My friend and her two kiddos show up. Within 20 minutes her son takes a spill on foot. Not bike. Not scooter. On his own two feet. The same kid who said, "No mom, I don't wanna go to the park today" head off to Urgent Care.

Meanwhile, the girls were saving a monarch butterfly from being eatin' by a bird. I took her daughter home for a playdate, while her brother got drugged up, drooled on mom, and got an autograph worthy piece on his arm down the road at the emergency.

Rounding up three kids, two scooters, a bike, a butterfly and myself with an investment in my pocket... we head home. Once home, Escapia (the monarch) enchanted the three kids for a solid TWO whole hours. At one point I overheard Bella say, "Here! Use my umbrella, maybe she'll think it's a huge flower and think these parts are the stems and she'll feel at home in it." She's soooo thoughtful. After several attempts to domesticate the wild butterfly, the girls ultimately released her back into the wild.

Coach Cahill

2009-10-13T10:35:00.000-07:00

When we got an email saying Bella couldn't play soccer unless a parent stepped up to be Coach, Rodney agreed to "co-coach" with another parent and split the duty right down the middle. This was a fine idea until he attended the first coach meeting and they pulled out the new set of balls, a clip-board, and a polo shirt that said "coach" that he reassest he idea and decided he better step up his commitment level to Head Coach.

Bella is over the moon that her daddy is the coach! It is really fun to see her sit at dinner and chat about practice with her daddy. Who did what, what drills she liked or didn't like, how he could do better. It's a crack up! Here are a few of her team in action and Coach Cahill looking official.

A tunnel after EVERY game...

... with popsicles to celebrate.

Luke Starts Preschool

2009-09-09T19:44:00.000-07:00

He goes to Kid's Kottage at Harvey West Park on Mondays & Wednesday. Yipeee!

Tahoe Blue

2009-07-30T17:34:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun boating up in Tahoe. More so just boating, not so much tubing. The kids had a go at the tube behind the boat. We usually go with them, but they braved it and went together. Knowing this Rod went SUPER slow, so slow that the tube nose dived into the deep blue lake, flipping the kids over the front and towing little Luke upside down cuz we forgot to tell him that big lesson about not holding on or you'll be dragged! Opps. Poor little wet cats. Rod killed the engine, we both dove in, and I took a turn on the tube to cheer them up with silly dismounts.

Here is the video of Luke and Bella taking the plundge off the dock at Tahoe. Luke and Bella are often polar opposite in personalities. Luke said, "That was awesome!" While Bella said, "I'm not doing that again!"

A Day on the Farm

2009-07-28T12:34:00.000-07:00

We visited Jess and family out at her place where there are chickens, goats, horses, gardens, orchards, swing sets and a swimming pool. It's always a nice change of pace to just let the kids roam free chasing animals and eating out of the the garden. I'm always convinced I could live the country life and love it!

Dawn Patrol

2009-07-24T01:33:00.000-07:00

This was the start of our day.

Cold morning air blowing on us

as we cross to the north side of Lake Tahoe.

It was 5:30am and our boat was 50 yards out at a mooring byou.

Since the shuttle to get your boat didn't start to 8am...

Robyn volunteered to swim out to the boat.

While Robyn volunteered, it was our fine

Captain Rod who took the dip into the 60* water.

Brrrr!!!!

We pulled into Sand Harbor a little before 7am and checked in.

I was the first swimmer.

I figured I could elbow my way through the crowd

a little better than the kind swimmers who invited me on this swim.

The first leg was 30 minutes long.

I enjoyed the sunrise during some backstroke since

we weren't in this for time.

The first rotation was a bit crazy with all the boats.

Ummm... crazy-dangerous.

After each person on the team swam 30 minutes,

we then took turns doing 15 minutes,

then 10 minutes until we reached the other side.

Nora warmed up with home made homeless gloves (very santa cruz) post swim.

Yes she brought guns on the boat. She's a trainer at Cross Fit here in Santa Cruz.

We enjoyed chillin' and talkin' smack to the other boats.

They said things like, "She's going to kick your ass, she's nationally ranked."

We said things like, "She'll kick your ass and she's even missing a leg!"

Which lead me to my almost stuck my foot in my mouth when I saw a man with a paddle for pulling in his hand (a fin for your hand!), just as I was about to ask why he's up for cheating, I glanced down to his MISSING hand. Oh. Gee. Did I feel dumb. Just in my head, but still.

Other boats were out for breaking tan lines, not records.

They were old, she had huge boobs, he had a flat ass.

They were swimming naked.

Oh, I never wanna leave Tahoe. It never fails. It is always so beautiful and grand.

I never tire of the fresh smell of pine in the air or gazing at Mt. Tallac in the distance, and this time staring deep deep into the cobalt blue water with only sun rays changing its shade.

Stay tuned for the movie of Luke jumping off a dock of enormous size!

Escaping Alcatraz

2009-07-13T09:24:00.001-07:00

The lady who briefed us onshore of where to swim came over the loud speaker, "Two minutes swimmers. Are you ready?" An uproar of shouting, whistles, and yelps echoed against the fogged up ferry windows as the two story ferry was making it's final turn. We were 100 yards from Alcatraz island. I looked around at the ampt up crowd. Swimmers were jumping up and down, stretching out arms, shaking out their muscles and making final adjustments to their goggles.

"Ten, Nine, Eight..." The boat full of 750 adrenaline filled swimmers began chanting the countdown. People around the perimeter wiped the fogged windows to watch the first swimmers make the plunge into the cold sea filled with kayaks and boats. "Three, two, one..."

All business, in a hurried tone, a man tagged three swimmers, "One, two, three- GO!" The man counted swimmers to step forward for the jump. Beep, beep, beep. They were gone. One by one, swimmers were jumping off and swimming away. I knew I could do the swim, so why not try it without a wetsuit. I believed it was all mental to conquer the cold. Mind over matter. But doubt set in as I heard each beep. I peered out the exit where a beep marked your fate. I just needed to see another non-wetsuit swimmer jump in first to boost my confidence. Just as I was looking, "Two." I was tagged. It was my turn.

His touch awoke me from my doubt and I made the mental shift. I stepped forward and watched my friend, Dotti jump into the white bubbles below. Waiting for her to come up and clear out. I was in game mode. It's on! I jumped. Cold and adrenaline hit my body simultaneously. I was doing it. Swimming in the Bay. Not as bad as I imagined. I can do this I thought. I was turning over my strokes in choppy swell bigger than anything I've ever trained in or experienced. Ok, much different than I imagined, but do-able. I kept swimming.

I quickly learned that I had to both exhale, look for an on-coming wave and inhale or risk inhaling the salty water upon beathing. It was a washing machine in there, causing me to have to pause to sight over the swell and chop to see if I was on target.

Dotti and I made the pack to stay together for the most part cuz we were fairly the same swim speed. I would get a body length or two ahead and tread a bit doing backstroke while I waited to make eyes with her. We would shout to each other where we thought we should be heading for. Swimming ontop of each other a few times from one shift of the wave. It was a trick to keep adjusting your sighting object as you got closer to shore. If we didn't follow the instruction correctly, we could end up under the Golden Gate Bridge within one hour! We errored left. Far left so we wouldn't miss our target.

About two thirds into the swim Dotti told me she wish she had signed up for the naked (non-wetsuit) swim. Just then she ok-ed me to swim ahead and go hard. So it began... I started the competive game of catching the swimmmer ahead of me. Over and over and over again. I would sight someone ahead of me and swim hard to catch them. Once I caught them (won), I would find a new competitor. It was mind over matter for me. I believed it was all mental until about 40 minutes into the swim when my body started doing this weird hot/cold flash up and down my whole body... then I really started to think about hypothermia and what are the first signs of it? I wish I read about hypothermia. Gee, the shoreline was so close. What if I make this far only to have my body quit from cold and I have to throw an arm up to a kayaker?!!

All that swimming allows plenty of thinking time. I started to feel kind of loopy in the head and kept looking around to sight where I was going and suddenly started to feel like I was going nowhere! Dotti wasn't next to me anymore and the swimmers were really dispirsed by this point. What are those first signs of hypothermia... is this really happening to me? I found a swimmer ahead of me and tried with all my might to catch them to prove to myself I really am moving forward. "Just keep swimming, just keep swimming..." I chanted lines from Nemo over and over. Ah I finally caught up to the swimmer. I am moving forward. Mental. It's all mental.

The shoreline seemed to be slipping further away. But I kept swimming, almost on auto piolet now as my body was feeling more and more numb. I locked in on an orange cap ahead of me and followed him into the finish line. Finally, the sea of people where appearing closer. The funneling of swimmers 200 yards wide was narrowing in toward me. We were all swimming for the huge orange bouys. I was getting closer. I saw the man ahead of me stand up. I was almost there. I swam head down until my hands were touching the sandy bottom. At last. Shore. Finding my legs, I crawled to my feet and ran through the sand to the final BEEP.

A volunteer put a medal around my neck. I followed the orange netting to the bag area, only to wander around in a mental daze. I was hot, nausas, and dizzy. Where was Rod and Jenee? I couldn't think. I kept looking for a towel, a parka, something of mine? It all looked the same. I just wanted to rest, but I was mentally uncapable of thinking, so I kept moving cuz that is the last thing I remember consiously telling myself to do about 20 minutes ago in the water.

Scarred by the onset of my out of body experience I was relieved to see smiling faces running toward me peeking over the crowd and waving happily. Excited about my accomplishment they were full of compliments and questions, but all I could do was stare and shake. I wanted to speak but I could only say, "I feel really weird."

Jenee having ran marathons told me to eat and drink, so off she went to find me fuel. Rod pushed liquids in me and I soon came around. Within the hour I was changed, warm, and dry. Ahhhh. I did it. I swam Alcatraz.

Dotti and I met at the food station all bundled up with a glow of pride. With a hand full of bagels, grapes, and a hot drink we went over to the wall where results were posted. There it was: 5th place in my division of non-wetsuit female swimmers and 8th place over all. I had gotten 8th in the whole event for the swim portion. Wow. I was proud, but I know I was slow at a lot of points.... so I can't wait to swim even harder next year since Rod is dying to swim it now!

Waiting in line to check in.

The crowd of swimmers loading onto the ferry. Rod was tempted to board the ferry and swim in his underwear with us to just do it! I'm tempted to sign up in 2010 with him.

Can you find Dotti and I?? Hint: I'm in the green.

HUGE frickin' fright ship passing through where we were
going to be swimming in 20 minutes!

Special Thanks to Dotti-
Thanks friend for taking the plunge with me!

Summer Madness

2009-07-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

I've finally finished switching over from Nikon to Canon. Sorry Nikon folk.

Anyway, after a couple months off the photo sessions, I should be getting some more post up. Check out my photo link on the right for the wedding two weeks ago. I have a couple more coming up too, so stay tuned. I'd love to shoot your family if you're in Santa Cruz/ Bay Area- spread the word!

Meanwhile, VBS is over so we are hard up for some summer fun. Today we hit up the $1- Yes, that's right only one dollar per person for a summer flick at the Capitol theaters in San Jose! Today the 10am showing was Space Chimps.

Next week, Spongebob Squarpants- pass. I can't quite pin Mr. Squarepants for any direct offenses, but somewhere in my bones I know he's not age appropriate for my kids. After that Veggie Tales- And so on.... all the way through the end of summer. I love the budget friendly minded people who think of mommy's like me over the summer.

Other free fun is the bendy people... uhhh, or Cirque Magnifique people at the Boardwalk on M- Th at noon and 3pm. Then there is the Jr. Ranger program at the state beach on Thursday mornings- sounds very cool learning about the local ecosystems and history.

I thought I'd catch up on making albums and finishing those darn quilts I ambitiously started, but by the time I get the house cleaned and myself showered, the fog has lifted and it's summer time outside. Hmmmm..... maybe next winter.

Tomorrow, Bella and I get to attend a friends Mehendi gathering where we should come home with some interpretation of this on us from henna:

You will certainly see pictures. I can't wait to be steeped in someone elses culture! She marries on Friday in San Francisco at the Yatch Club. Should be a nice view of Alcatraz... the island I signed up to swim from in about a week. Eeeeek!

VBC

2009-06-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

Vacation Bible Camp is where it's at!

For $40 my kids have been plugged into fun and friends from 8:30am- 12:30pm! It's the cheapest summer fun for both the kids and me. I've never had a whole week of regular breaks to do as I please. It's a real treat.

Last week Bella went to camp at a different Church. It's a pity they only offer one week. But that is one week per most big churches... So, I've been church hopping, signing up for multiple ones this month. I hear next year our church is putting one on and I am most certaintly going to push for the week after these other two.

I'm sure next week will be a rude shock when I slip back into "real time" summer with two bored kids! Where do they even learn the word. Bored. Bella didn't learn the word until kindergarten. However, she is such a lovely teacher, Luke picked it up in no time. So these days, he declares the second the door closes and Bella leaves the car for a playdate, "I'm bored." He's only 3. We still have a whole summer. A whole 15 more years.

The Goose Egg

2009-06-16T13:27:00.000-07:00

I don't think I've taken Bella to Emergency or Doctors on Duty at all that I can recall. However, Luke has won at least three trips there and a couple phone calls too! Yesterday, while I was paying up at the register for lunch I told the kids to go grab a table. Luke pulled a superman move to secure two chairs in go. In a failed effort, he landed straight on his head under the table.

To be honest, I didn't see an second of the heroic move to save me a chair. I came into the picture with the famous-heard-waaaay-to-often words, "Ma-am... MA-AM! Is that your son?!"

I turned to see him on all fours under the table with tears streaming down his cheecks. The sandwich-maker must have known this scenario all too well and offered Luke a free cookie.

Off to the park we went, sandwich and cookie in hand. Just as I was about to bite into my sandwich Luke walks over with his hand on his head and says, "Mommy, I think I have a bump on my head." As he pulled his hand away, I couldn't believe my eyes. There was a massive black and blue lump. The ignorant mother to his side let out a huge gasp and began to rant and rave about how bad it was to which I politely asked, "Stop! REALLY you are not helping!"

In a matter of ten minutes, his head begun to birth a goose egg. So I packed up my sandwich and off to Emergency we went. Of course, another hour later we got the usual: ice and observe. If he acts drunk bring him to emergency for a head scan.

Here is a shot from yesterday, right before I went into emergency. Yes, I stopped and took a photo. I swear the photo doesn't do it justice. It was raised out a good 1/2 inch!!

This morning: swelling is down but color and shine factor is up.

It's a Circus

2009-06-05T21:27:00.000-07:00

We've been shaking out a new schedule with the kids activities, my new jobs, and Rodney joining our HOA board. My job status is ever evolving. At the moment I can count four jobs. One- substitute teaching, which will be ending soon with summer appoaching. Two- coaching club waterpolo over the summer down at the local high school. Three- helping out with a girl Claire who has RETT (love her). Four- finally going to second shooting for two weddings in June with Celeste!

Bella's mouth is still evolving.

Her prayer came true and she started gymnastics.

Luke is still seeking out mischief daily.

Rodney is currently in rehab.

He is seeing a hand specialist since he broke his finger playing Aussie Rules. He jammed it catching a football. His left ring finger dislocated then jammed up over his bone. He said, "I looked down and my ring finger was shorter than my pinky finger." O-U-C-H.

Rod also was elected as a board member. He is officially the Treasurer on our Home Owners Association here. It's right up his ally... budgets, spreadsheets, and executive calls. Finally, someone else will get to here, "You're over budget!"

Flatline

2009-05-19T10:50:00.000-07:00

Looks like I can only get about a post a month up here. I'm about as good at keeping a blog going as I am keeping a plant alive!

We have been shaking out a new schedule with the family. My dear friend, Jen Namba moved on to New Zealand, but at about the same time part time work finally came my way at a Physical Therapy office... doing admin and P.T. aide work. It is a fun mix and just twice a week. It's slowly filling in the void of our friends that moved. Luke and I miss Jen and her 3 boys heaps!

Luke goes to preschool two days a week while I work- Wednesday and Friday. Perfect schedule as I hate Mondays and would never want to have to leave the bomb the weekend leaves in my house every Monday morning. Luke's preschool is one street over from Rod's work, so Rod picks him up from school.

Also, I have been substitute teaching a bit at Bella's school. I even subbed for her class. I got a fresh take on her classmates. Their true colors shined and a couple made our playdate blacklist!

My polo gig starts up tomorrow night. I've been playing lots lately and may try morning swims with a masters program soon. It's that word, "morning" that makes me keep re-thinking it.

This week, Rod has had a couple friend out from Australia to which Luke said, "You two talk funny." I guess Rod doesn't have an accent anymore but they do!

I hope to bring this blog back to life soon when I get my camera all switched over. Until then- it's work!

The Last of the Mohicans

2009-04-27T22:31:00.000-07:00

SEVEN.

She's that old! Yeah. Bella!

Seven. In first grade. Wearing a mini skirt (only because Nana made it for her).

I can't believe it either. I even ran into a gal (Jen Sanders) from my old water polo team at Rod's aussie footy game the other day who left after the year I was pregnant with Bella. She saw me pregnant with Bella and then... with a seven year old the other day. Really, where does time go?

For Bella's birthday, she requested a vanity like the one her auntie Erika has at her house... so we found one on craigslist for cheap and practically new too!

Of course what ever is Bella's is soon his too...

For her party she requested an "American Indian" theme party. Not quite sure how PC that is, but we ran with it... making corn husk dolls (cheap from the mexi market) and painting rock they found in a treasure box after a hunt with the Chief Cahill.

Had a pow-wow around a storm drain with cake and one cheetah. Every tribe had some wild animals around, this tribe had Luke:

Had a visit from an elder:

Opened some pressies from a far away land:

And used benda-roos to make a mohawks (or mullets but I'm trying to stick with a theme here!)

Wild Indian:

Wild Indian Whisperer:

HAPPY 7TH BIRTHDAY ISABELLA KIRRA CAHILL!

Got a Job

2009-03-31T21:07:00.000-07:00

All today:

Saw an ad for a job as assistant polo coach at the local high school, Santa Cruz High on USA Waterpolo website.

Emailed Coached: Me... blah, blah, blah

Coached emailed back: very interested - drop by practice to chat.

Dropped by practice with kids in tow: got job offer for summer and fall season

Yipee!

Good Fit: It's just enough work to pay for Luke's preschool and not have to be stressed out shuffling kids around since he's a chill coach and said I can bring my kids :) It's only two days a week, 6:30- 8:30pm.

Answered prayer: Wanted part time job to get Luke into preschool without hurting the budget or family life hard.

Perk: Also, it's right off Laurel St. which is the road Rodney takes to work, so he can pick the kids up on the way home from work so they still get feed and to bed at a decent hour.

So thrilled.

Topper: Found a computer screen with a big sign "FREE" on it. Perfect topper cuz ours broke two days ago. Rod told me this morning to check Goodwill for one, but I got one Godwilled!

Good Day Sunshine in Santa Cruz. Smile.

Seven Years Strong

2009-03-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

THE SCHMIDT PROPERTY:

Six miles off the highway 17, my grandpa owns a fat chunk of land that we frequent as a family. It's a piece of heaven that we don't have in our neighborhood. So when a Saturday came around and we didn't have anything on the books, we packed up the kids, fishing poles, hot dogs and some drinks for a lazy afternoon.

We plopped Luke down with our supplies, some tires for a possible tire swing if we could find the right tree and the skateboard... well he just loves to have it near.

His property looks out from the Santa Cruz Mountains to Monterey Bay. That little inlet on the right of the coastline just before the tree trunk is the west side of Santa Cruz where we live.

There is the most beautiful chestnut tree at the top of the property. It's so old it has a little assistants these days to keep its aging limbs up.

Bella and Luke love to open up the spikey nuts to find the treasure inside.

We cruised around the property in the truck and let the kids bounce around as we looked for deer. This photos cool cuz the flash fired and you can see Rod pointing out a deer in the reflection as the kids look out the window for it.

I love all the old school things my grandpa has collected over the years. It is what makes his property. This property is his pride and joy. He loves to come up and just tinker around the shed and trim trees etc. I know why more and more with each trip.

We explore all the same things everytime, but somehow it's new and different. Especially with the changing seasons.

I have memories of sticky hot summers, trying to keep cool by day under the big chestnut trees and other times of playing in the snow with my kids. Burn piles baked our potatoes growing up when we'd spend the day with grandpa. Cards with grandma with a butter and cheese sandwhich on white bread. Countless Easters filled with potlucks, same relatives I still don't know names to, and easter egg hunts. Today it was a crisp cool day. We stayed bundled up. Munched on apples and fresh bread as Rod started the fire.

That was a memory in itself... watching Rodney break the wood down to start the fire brought me back to one of our first dates at a beach bonfire. He'd bust the wood with his foot and pull it apart with his hands. I remember his pumped forearms in the flickering fire as he tossed pieces in. We stayed up all night talking out on a log near the ocean front away from the crowd about where we came from... exchanging story after story of our past. We came from two completely different worlds and fell in love that night. It was the beginning of us. Happy Anniversary Baby! 7 years strong today.

With the sun going down we started a fire for our hot dogs and watch the stars come out.

Old Maid

2009-03-12T18:30:00.000-07:00

Yep... I'm getting there, the Old Maid status. I'm working on my first quilt, hence the dead blog dialogue.

Here is a preview of the colors in my blocks and

Bella's new bangs or "fringe" if you're Aussie...

Rainy Day Recycled

2009-02-18T12:59:00.000-08:00

Well, I officially hit a wall with creative ideas in this week of rain until I pulled out the recycling bin. We've made bird feeders with peanut butter and seeds, some contraption to swatch little water balloons around, and now... the kids are just sitting at the table pulling things out and cutting and stapling them all together. I'm glad to see them being creative and helping each other with ideas!

Exciting News

2009-02-16T22:06:00.001-08:00

1) I got to second shoot at a trash the dress session, post wedding day session at the Boardwalk... check it out here. That in itself was fun and an amazing experience to be able to learn of a pro.

2) In the midst of this crazy economy where people are gettting mandatory pay cuts (Rod's OLD work), Rod got a surprise pay raise (Rod's NEW work)!! God is sooooo good!!! Just when I was wondering if it was the right thing to pass on the job offer with a big long huge commute(hour- hour and a half) for some needed cash, God confirmed my decision by giving it to Rod. I cried tears of joy, I kid you not!

3) I got a job interview lined up for tomorrow at The Bay School for autistic kids in Santa Cruz. It would be great to be local and learn from a whole school of specialized teachers. Not sure on the details like hours, pay, and if it will be a fit, but I'm excited about it and that's a good start.

4) We got to see the AMGEN tour go roaring past Rod's work off Walnut Street in Santa Cruz. We biked down as a family, then bunkered down in the upstairs office to await the live broadcast announce they were closing in on downtown Santa Cruz.

It felt like we had VIP box seats today. Not to mention the all around good feeling I get from biking somewhere as a family and enjoying a free event in our own sweet beach town. Go Lance!

Here is the two front runners minutes from the finish...

Here is who Rod and I think was Lance... guy on left in yellow and black- What do you think?

Will You Be Mine?

2009-02-14T15:05:00.003-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

xoxox Julie xoxox

Lions and Tiger and Luke- Oh my...

2009-02-13T13:04:00.000-08:00

I hear we are having our biggest storm yet-- tomorrow.

The rains are finally here....

SJSU Water Polo Game

2009-02-10T19:47:00.001-08:00

So supposedly this guy on the left has cancer?! I mean, in chemo-treatment-at-Stanford type of cancer.

I've never seen Lou look better in the twelve plus years I've seen him.

I just wanted to let you polo alumni know he looks and acts like the same old Lou when I saw him last Wednesday at the SJSU vs Hawaii Game. Maybe a little less yelling than the norm, but still disputing ref calls, and flashing side ways smirks at a goal.

By the way- Awesome game. Overtime and a win!

On the way to the game I was practicing with Luke and Bella the, "Go Spartans!"

At which Bella said, "What's the other teams name?"

Knowing it was the Rainbows (at least back in my hay-day) I dropped a disclaimer to her first, "Well, I'll tell you the name, but you can't cheer for them just cuz you like the name!" "They are the Rainbows from Hawaii."

"But mom...."

Becky was kind enough to let us look through her lost and found at the pool where we found two perfect pieces of swimming attire:

Spiderman boardshorts for Luke

and...

Size 7/8 Bikini for Bella

Just add water (and waterpolo ball)....

and you've got a game.

It's a game I hope one of them learns to love!

Did I tell you?

2009-02-10T19:20:00.001-08:00

Our neighbors down below us moved out!!

I think it is at the top of my blessings for this year. It's funny that we were selling because of our kids were being too noisy for neighbors and we just wanted our kids to be able to be kids. And now they can! Plus we didn't have to move a thing. In fact, what I do move is furniture so the kids can run around more or jump from couch to chair to ottoman. It's like a whole new world. I really think I can live here longer if we don't have neighbors below my dinosaur tromping kids... who really are just being kids, doing simple things like this:

But with the neighbor down below... I would be getting a text from my them saying "What are you doing training basketball olympians?" I feel for the poor lady who owns it and moved her granddaughter out to get some real paying tenants, but to my relief, has not secured a renter for almost a whole two months now. : )

Luke does his track routine up and down our hall, bust out indoor skateboard tricks, has dance parties with Bella, and will sometimes just jump around singing, "I can jump cuz Cassie's moved out."

I love love love that my kids can be kids.

It's revolutionized motherhood; Especially in the winter!

Stay-Cation

2009-02-03T09:14:00.000-08:00

This weekend my girlfriend, Jenee rented a beach house facing w. cliff just down the street from us for her husband 30th Birthday weekend. She threw a party at the Red Room on Saturday night. My parents took the kids for two whole nights in a row so Rodney and I were able to bike to and fro, and be in our own little town for some kid free fun! It was a real treat since usually we are away when my parents take the kids. I totally recommend trying the new bueget friendly: Stay-cation!

Boys having coffee Sunday morning. Beaut weather too!

On Sunday, we woke up bright and early- and went for a jog to the lighthouse just Rod and I!

Rod went for a quick cold swim in the ocean with all the boys but not before all re-thinking the idea.

I took some prego pics of Jenee's girlfriend and husband. We stopped by Safeway for some Superbowl supplies (BBQ & Beer). Then we all migrated to the Santa Cruz Mt. Brewery for a two leasuirely pints in the sunshine. Rod and I strolled home arm in arm, peeked in a gallery we always talk about visiting, then had our house all to ourselves! We biked down to the ocean front pad for BBQ and Superbowl and just before sunset I squeezed in another photo session of Jenee's brother, Johnny and his fiance, Kim.

It was THEE most perfect weekend.

Reality Check.... MONDAY

Monday I had a second interview for a job on the East side of San Jose at 8am- 50 minute drive. I would work as a tutor here.

Interview went well. The commute was smooth. I actually enjoyed the quiet time. It will be crazy different to work 30 hours a week, but it's good pay and in line with what I want to pursue teaching....

So I wait.

SCRAMBLE

2009-01-29T09:58:00.000-08:00

I picked Bella up from school the other day and

she requested on the car ride home we play

SCRAMBLE

like scrambled eggs

SCRABBLE you mean?

Yeah... I mean scrabble.

I was impressed in first grade she had a word bank large enough to play scrabble.

So we played scrabble and ate cupcakes with blue frosting Luke and I had made that morning.

I layed a word.

Then she layed a word off mine.

Impressive I thought.

I layed a word, then...

she was stumped.

After a

long

time thinking,

she said,

"Mom this is really hard!"

Finally, she got one...

but this time it she didn't lay it in connection with any words on the board.

She just plopped it down like no big deal, wherever she thought fit!

I knew it was a little bit advance for a first grader,

so we put words all over the board wherever we thought fit and

played first grader scrabble that day.

Crystalizing

2009-01-27T11:05:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to become more clear with each day. Yes, I wrestling with this season of waiting and uncertainty but not without faith. I know God promises direction and He always has delivered that for me. So the very day I blogged about the slowness of our (Luke and I) days, He (God) presented me with this from my favorite devotional, Streams in a Desert.

*Note- I ALWAYS read by the day they are dated, however the verse I've been clinging to for almost a year now, was at the top of the page for Feb. 5. Only God knows these things. As I was skipping back to January's current date, low and behold He got my attention so He could say things like this:

"I do not believe we have even begun to understand the wonderful power there is in being still. We are in such a hurry, always doing, that we are in danger of not allowing God the opportunity to work...."

There was lots more of that very-appropriate-for-my-moment wording and then a poem that followed:

Sit still, my children! Just sit calmly still!
Nor deem these days--these waiting days--as ill!
The One who loves you best, who plans your way,
Has not forgotten your great need today!
And, if He waits, it's sure He waits to prove
To you His tender child, His heart's deep love.

Sit still, my children! Just sit calmly still!
You greatly long to know your dear Lord's will!
While anxious thoughts would almost steal their way
Corroding within, because of His delay--
Persuade yourself in simple faith to rest
That He, who knows and loves, will do the best.

Sit still, my children! Just sit calmly still!
Nor move one step, not even one, until
His way has opened. Then, ah, then how sweet!
How glad your heart, and then how swift your feet,
Your inner being then, ah then, how strong!
And waiting days not counted then too long.

Sit still, my sons & daughters! Just sit calmly still!
What higher service could you for Him fill?
It's hard! ah yes! But choicest things must cost!
For lack of losing all how much is lost!
It's hard, it's true! But then--He gives you grace
To count the hardest spot on the sweetest place.

By J. Danson Smith

I do view the waiting as ill.

I was having anxious thoughts.

I am wanting to know the Lord's will.

But I also know when God does open the door
how glad my heart and swift my feet are. So true.

Job Update:

It's almost comical the things I hear as I hunt for a job...

The stats

The "Job's been filled."

The "Everyone is signing up to substitute teach,

unless you know a teacher you won't get called!"

or the most recent, approaching my THIRD interview

with the SAME company,

scheduled for Wednesday.

It all sounded so promising until...

they called me Monday to say,

"The job position is on hold, so we are canceling the interview."

Really? On hold. I'll add it to my list. Hmmph.

Exhale.

SO....

Inhale.

Job Hunt has turned into

Mission: Going Back to School

School Update:

Currently I'm looking into getting my Special Education Credential in mild to moderate come fall, probably at good old San Jose State. There are 3 places locally I can get a credential, but I'm leaning toward San Jose State University for a few reasons:

1) I did my undergrad there

2) My mom lives in San Jose = childcare = save money

3) Bigger job pool and bigger pay over in San Jose. Currently there are 235 jobs in San Jose vs. 55 jobs in Santa Cruz.

4) Maybe I can crash a few waterpolo practices with the girls and get back in sexy shape:)

What to do...

2009-01-22T09:13:00.000-08:00

Well, I think I'm with Kiki with the whole winter blues thing.

I think I would be suicidal if I lived in the snow, cuz we are only on day two of rain and I'm already wondering what a week of the projected rain will do to my kids and I.

It was only two days ago that it was sunshine in the high 70's! Life was glorious... I was out running along side the kids on their bikes, hitting up the surf, going for sunset runs with no kids and not minding being home all day long with the kids while Rod was sailing.

Why? Cuz the sun was out!

Rod invited out Bella's first grade teacher to help crew...

Mrs. Lenz, Rod and their first place cup they won.

But be careful what you wish for cuz a little over a year ago this time I was looking for change.

God change me I prayed. Life seemed stale. I was becoming complacent. Yeah, it happened. I started to have so much time on my hands with Bella off at school and solo time with Luke... I began to wonder and re-evaluate how to spend my mommy days. It is a weird thing to just be home with one.

For so long, Rod imagined my life slow, full of me time- not work in his mind. And for sooooo long he was wrong, dead wrong. I was barely cleaning up breakfast and it was time for lunch. The kids were full of messes and playdates to keep me busy. I didn't even have time to get on the computer or shower regularly. I would go to the gym just for a break and try to maintain a speed fast enough that the machine wouldn't turn off as I read a magazine and tried to relax.

Yet, the kids are growing and things are slowing. At least on these rainy days. I have coffee and clean the house before 9 or 10am (remember it's only 900 sq ft- so don't beat yourself up). Then I stare at Luke wondering how I can make our day productive and fun?

Yeah, somedays we have the library planned or playdate with a friend and I really stick to the rule of accomplishing one big outting for the day... but it's strange to be at this point of mommyhood and not awaiting another baby on the way. It's nice to have this time, but I feel guilty and want to make it productive. However, every outting besides the library seems to cost money. All my mommy friends are homeschooling their kids and busy with that. It's like it's all just slowing down and it's beginning to make me anxious.

I know I'm suppose to be looking for work, but even that isn't working out so well. I'm also looking into going back to school for a masters and teaching credential, but that is still down the road- fall. So life is just this uncomfortable waiting right now. I'm trying to be grateful and appreciate, cuz I know all good things come to an end. I think it's just the weather and the waiting of the unknown future getting to me. I just wonder how our family is going to play out in the next couple years. I guess I'm used to having a plan of attack.

I doubt anyone can relate cuz I was the one of the first to have babies and probably the first to stop having babies. Then there are my mommy friends with three kids laughing their heads off and thinking, "Yeah, that will be the day!" It will come though- I promise.

I can remember the last time I felt like this. It was right before Bella was born. I was used to going 110 miles per hour with school, work, waterpolo, social life... then it all began to slow down. That last month of pregnancy living at home mind you. It just that strange calm before the storm feeling. Ahh well, this is life.

In the meanwhile, I'm dabbling with photography. I shot a few different familys for portraits over the holiday and have a couple more interested. It is something I'd love to do as my day job down the road. So I created a blog for just my photo sessions. Check it out... Julie Cahill Photography I'd love to get some feed back good, bad, and ugly!

Laughs with Luke

2009-01-20T10:36:00.000-08:00

Do you have those moments when you know dicipline is following their next action?

Yesterday, Luke continued to climb from our balcony to our front entry and I was tired of him locking the door, me having to get up and let him in and then doing it all over again. Not to mention the whole idea of him escaping the patio area I think he's secure in.

So the next time he went to do it I warned him, "Luke if you do it again, you're going to your room for timeout. It's time to stop." Of course he pushes his mom's boundaries and begins to climb over the banister, all the while I'm thinking, well I have to follow through... however this time he throws in with a knocking on our front door, "Open up, it's the mailman!" Which sends me laughing aloud with Bella. Unfortunately, I still had to put him in his room, but not without a good laugh before I opened the door and after I closed the door to his room. Ah, the things they say.

Then there are things like this... wearing the googles that came for his pet animal for Christmas. He's convinced they are for him to wear.

Our callings

2009-01-17T20:56:00.000-08:00

My friend Eddie is a youth pastor down in Aromas. I met his friend he's talked about for ages over the summer at a camp out up at my grandpa's property. I heard more about his work at Gospel Graffiti and finally checked the website out. These guys are so talented. I love how God uses our past for His future.

I guess I've been thinking a lot about that since I'm on the job hunt. A few things keep cycling back into my life.... one being Rod's friend asking me to help out at Crisis Pregnancy center where he works. That was the first place I went when I was 20 years old, unmarried, half way through college, with the dad not allowed in my own country with no plans for a pregnancy. Maybe God is calling me to share my story and help other girls see God's power for purpose in our lives?

If not, I'm sure it's something else amazing. It always is with Him.

We need...

2009-01-14T09:47:00.000-08:00

More days hitting the 80's

on the coast in the middle of winter.

It is crazy beautiful out!

Maybe global warming isn't such a bad thing after all?

December Highlights

2009-01-05T13:46:00.000-08:00

Here are some Decemeber Highlights...

We visited our friend's dad at his firestation. Luke was stoked to sit in the big engine and go for a ride around town in a real firetruck!

Kids sang at church...

I made my own Christmas gifts this year... Aprons. Hair clips. Deco-podge journal. Personalized Stationary. Portuguese Sweet Bread. Magnets.

Rod's best friend from Australia is here for a few weeks, so he stopped by on his way to his girlfriend's place in San Francisco. Those Aussies just love us American girls! Welcome John.

Rod was off work for a week. It's been a treat to have him around and help with the kiddies and nitty griddy, like scrubbing the tub out. We day tripped it to San Francisco or "The Big Smoke" to the Australians. We drove up highway one for the scenic route, pass Pigeon Point Lighthouse...

Jumped on the Bart. The kids were in awe of this speed machine...

Went ice skating in Union Square...

before stopping off at our friends for dinner on our return trip.

Job update:
Ok, still jobless, but I have had a few call backs and interviews lined up... so a little prayer please. My most hopeful one is at Rocking Horse Ranch Preschool. They have outdoor ed with horses and gardening. It's a good fit with what I went to school for... BA teaching/environmental studies. So I'm hanging for a call back. I got an email from the owner on her vacation who said she'd for sure contact me when she gets back... so I wait. The topper would be that they let me bring Luke there, maybe for a discount fee or free.

J O B

2008-12-16T22:09:00.000-08:00

I have to find a full time job- ouch! It is a little daunting at the moment, but I almost think it will be easier than part time, cuz then both R and I will be full time, therefor all housework splits right down the middle. Right? I'm probably going to guess that's wrong, but we'll see how we end up. I won't be stressed out driving the kids to and fro all before 2pm if it were a part time gig and then have to do it all still. I'm trying to find the beauty in it... like having a whole hour lunch break to eat by myself and not have to get up to get someone a napkin, milk, or more of something. That alone is a beautiful thing.

I found this today. I think I should print it up and frame.

It just makes me smile.

PS I know I am terrible at keeping up a blog. Sorry.

My Brother Lands a HUGE Fish. HUGE!!!!

2008-12-08T15:19:00.000-08:00

I'm double posting and they are both a little boastful blogs today, but I'm very proud of both Luke riding his bike and my brother landing the fish of a lifetime!

My brother Marc went on a ten day fishing trip out of San Diego the day after Thanksgiving. Just when they thought things were looking slow, they spotted something on the horizon and headed over where my brother caught a HUGE ASS fish.

HOLY COW!!!

3 4 4 lb

F I S H

They call it cow town for a reason I guess?!

Here is the fishing report from the boat

he was out on and a picture to prove this fish tale!

Here is my other brother's email about it...

My brother Marc is on a $3000, 10-day fishing trip out of San Diego. They travel down the Baja-Peninsula targeting 100 to 300lbs Yellowfin Tuna (AKA “Cows”). They had reached their southern-most point of the trip in “cow-town” and were discouraged to only catch a few 100+ pounders. They were about to leave the grounds and head back hoping to find some action on the way home when they suddenly saw “something interesting” on the horizon.
When the putted over there, two guys hooked into some “cows”. Marc fought a 344 pounder!!!! This fish spooled his reel. That means the 500+ yards of line was now empty so they do a risky, but common maneuver where they tie the end of his rod to a second one, let his $1000+ rod and reel go in the ocean and continue the battle on the second rod!!!!!

Icing on the cake: There is a contest going that gives anyone on the boat that catches a 300+ pound fish a free 10-day trip in the future!!!!

Sushi anyone?

Look who learned to ride a bike...

2008-12-08T09:50:00.000-08:00

Yep Luke!

The night before we were on a family bike ride when Rodney called us all to a stop. Luke listened, but the big red caboose didn't. I accidently ran over his training wheel- Crack! The whole entire little wheel shattered in pieces. I felt like a big bully running over his little training wheel with my beach cruiser tire. Upon discovering his stumped training wheel he declared, "Hey, that wasn't nice, you broke my bike!" Tears. Lots of tears. More tears.

Ahhh, I felt terrible. The best I could do is apologize to my little man who's bicycle dreams had just been shattered. I quickly encouraged him that tomorrow.... "daddy will teach you to ride without your training wheel cuz you're a big boy Luke- I know you can do it." I mean after all, he's very athletic for his age. He can dribble a basketball and sink shots. He can ride a razor scooter and go off curbs with it. He jumps off our fourth stair to the ground floor. The kid is just crazy-wild like that.

The next day, Rod is heads out the door to go down to the parking lot with his tools.

J What are you working on the truck (It hasn't started well lately)?

R No, I was going to fix Luke's wheel you broke.

J Well, I think he could ride a bike without them. You should try first before you fix it!

I went about housely duties when Rod comes in and said...

"You were right. He can do it."

It's beginning to feel like Christmas

2008-12-03T16:10:00.000-08:00

I finally broke out our limited collection of Christmas decorations and hung our stockings. Bella and I colored wreaths, trees, and cut out snowflakes to replace the turkey's in the window with our Christmas art. I have an almost-life size Nativity scene given to me by my grandma but until we live in a bigger place it just plain takes up too much of our space, not to mention the year round storage of it.

After listening to Christmas music all day, I convinced Rod to get us a tree after work. This year we opted for the local cut trees. What happen to the days when it was cheaper to cut your own? Last year it was near $50 to cut our own. This time it was only $30 and around the corner from our house. However, they did have organic nobel firs the same size for $70?!! Only in Santa Cruz.

We've been getting crafty with the cold weather. I bought some mod-podge and have used it on everything from canvas to headbands. I even mod-podged the front page of my dictonary back on. That stuff is like the womans duct tape! I love it.

With birthdays and Christmas so near, we've come up with some handmade things like felt barrets, headbands, sewing aprons, and felt pin cushions. We are looking to cut cost on presents this year, so I'm open to great gift ideas if you have any? What fun stuff have you made that's fairly easy and kid friendly. Would about for boys? It seems I can't think of much, except maybe a army camo or dino apron? Hmmmm.

Here is a peek at 1st graders art work. Isabella's creations this year in first grade blow me away. She made a leaf bowl with real clay. I think I maybe had finger painting in 1st grade, not clay! Yesterday, she came home with this cutie. It's half clay, half paper. I love the whimsical feel all her drawings and faces have. However, some disagree, like her own father. When I showed him her creation, he stood there looking at it with a concerned look on his face.

OZ: Part 2

2008-11-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

Is it tomorrow yet? Gee. Blog maintenance is hard with little ones around all the time. Anyway here is some more of our trip...

After our two night stint in Sydney, Tim picked Jenee and I up from the Robina train station after a 2 hour plane ride from Sydney to Brisbane. I forgot how enjoyable traveling can be without little ones to worry about. That train ride for one hour was probably the fastest hour in my life. I just sat with my own thoughts and soaked in the scenery as we ventured fom the commercial area through the inner city to the country south toward the Gold Coast. We arrived around 3ish in Brisbane, so the whole ride south we saw school age children getting on and off dressed in their uniforms. At each stop they'd get off, I'd look at the small small town they were from and wonder what their family life was like where they lived, their neighborhood and friends. It a mystery that always draws my thoughts in to ponder for a mile or two down the road

Arriving in Cabarita, Lyn came out to greet us in the driveway with Rod on the phone even though it was near midnight during the work week for him. She had tears in her eyes and it was a joyous welcome after a solid three years had past since I'd last seen her. She even made us a welcome sign and had flowers to welcome us with. So hospitable!

She cooked up her classic curry dishes that night.

Jenee and I spent that first afternoon Wednesday just around Caba. We figured a BIG day on bikes: visit Lyn at the church in town where she works, get a coffee beachfront, visit Tim at the post office he works at, go lay out for a couple hours at the beach, then grab a beer and head home for lunch. The thing is, we were waking up by 6am every morning, so with our early start and the small town that Cabarita is, we had well accomplished everything by noon and that was with a couple extras like a quick surf and a little shopping too. Time to slow down.

Tim took us shopping up the coast to their mall for the afternoon and we had dinner at the pub that night. Tim and Lyn treated us girls to the new pub in town called, The Beach. A very flash and modern restaurant that replace the old beachfront pub.

The next day, Thursday we headed north to see some Australian wildlife, since the only kangaroo I've ever seen in 6 month long visits was one dead one on the side of the road! So we started out being suckered into this tourist photo....

Emu. He had eyes for Jenee and tango danced her into a corner.

Entering the reptile area with real crocks!

Then off to the soft and cuddlies... Jenee fell in love with the little joeys and asked to stay a little longer like a little kid everytime I suggest we move on.

Lyn picked us up after a couple hours at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and we headed off to lunch for falafels and a tour down the coastline. Stay tuned for part 3.

How was your trip?

2008-11-18T13:55:00.000-08:00

Lots of people have been asking me so here is a recap...

We took a short 13 hour plane ride:

1 sleeping pill

2 meals

3 movies

4 magazines

5 drinks

6 hours of sleep

7 bathroom trips later

we got here:

We stayed two nights in Sydney.

The first day we chilled out and stayed local.

Eating, drinking, and shopping nearby.

We got drinks in Darling Harbour that night at a place called, Homebar. This place had the best ambience! The wicker chairs were so chill and comfy. We sat just outside the bar with mellow tunes in the background and the harbor lights glistening on the dark night water.

It was here Jenee meet her first Australian critters...

Cockroaches!

The next day we took a run from Darling Harbour where our hotel was through the botonical gardens where we encountered fruit bats in the trees.

We continued our run out around the Sydney Oprah House...

around to Circle Quay where there is a "Cahill Walk"

down to the Sydney Harbour Bridge

then to breakfast at

Pancake on the Rocks.

Mmmm... Pancakes

with strawberries and fresh cream plus

mushroom crepes with pesto sauce.

I order a coffee with milk they call, "flat white."

If you're a straight black kind of girl you'd get a "long black."

If you're really complicated (ahem, Jenee), you'd order a half-caff-skinny-latte.

Delicious!

After breakfast, we bought a day tripper pass and after cleaning up at the hotel jumped on a

Ferry to Manley Bay for lunch.

Then back to Sydney where we caught a bus with this sign on it.

Our bus ride took us to Bondi Beach for the afternoon.

It was here we were sand blasted from high winds and

retired inside for some sangrias with a view.

After an exhausting two days in Sydney, I was happy to be going to Caba... it felt as though I was returning home. I was looking forward to someone else figuring our way around, mum's homecooking and dad's stories. Stay tuned for our adventures on the gold coast tomorrow.

Lost Treasures

2008-11-17T15:14:00.000-08:00

Yeah, there is always a few hundred lost treasures awaiting me in my parents attic. I was over at their place this weekend while my mom was away to help her re-claim her dining room for Thanksgiving. She moved her office out into the dining room a few years ago. Ok it's been more than that! It was when we boom-a-rang children all moved back home the same year. Oh yeah, and my boyfriend who knocked me up but wasn't allowed to share a room with me under my parents roof moved in too. Anyways, I love having my house in order. So since she's hosting Thanksgiving this year, I thought it would be a fun surprise for her to come home to her house back in order! In the midst of it all, I had to shuffle three rooms of furniture and kid mania and a bunch into the attic. It was there that I found a sewing book that teaches you everything you'd ever want to know about sewing! From basic stitch to how to follow patterns and make custom slipcovers. It even has a couple pages on how to set up your workspace room. Well, now I'm dreaming, but maybe one day I'll refrence those pages. I do know how to sew pretty well, but am missing a lot of the basics. I'm very excited. I've had two sewing machines given to me and one brand new one bought for me, but somehow I still don't own a working one?! While I was away, Rod was at home to play (surf). But the surf was flat and he did all sorts of handy work at home in addition to finding me a surprise gift... a sewing machine!! I'm so goo goo over him that he got me something. A how to sew book with a machine to match, all in the same weekend- Hot dog!

It has been taken good care of too, all the pieces
are there with the original manual.

I love how vintage it looks. Classic all American colors.

The second treasure I found in the attic was my old year book of when I was a first grader! Despite the cheesy I want bangs haircut and my two missing front teeth, I knew my first grader back at home would get a kick out of it, so I brought it home. She really did get a kick out of it, she studied it with a serious look, then started busting up laughing! As childhood insecurities started flooding in, I couldn't resist pointing out that I was missing two front teeth in first grade, but she has only lost one. That is big talk when you are six!

Billy Graham is 90

2008-11-07T15:55:00.000-08:00

Today Billy Graham turns 90 years old. God bless that man. What a legacy and unwavering life of service he's had. While he retired a few years ago, he's still around and going strong. His mind and spirt are strong, while his body is growing old. His son said on an interview today, the hardest part for Billy is his sight is going and he can no longer read scripture daily like he has for years and years. At which point I felt God say, one more reason to put my scripture to memory child. I'm working on it. I have it posted all around my house. I feel in the midst of mommyhood, scripture written out and posted around the house is very grounding and encouraging. You know how our mommy days go, just a quick word from the Lord can stop me in my tracks and change my attitude on the matter at hand. Billy was quoted saying, "As a Christian I know how to die, but not how to grow old." I've heard that often from older folks and pray that I learn to age gracefully as I grow.

Another fascinating fact I learned today is he is a democrat. Ahhhhh, yes! The funny thing is his son is a republican. Ha. Not that it is who votes who, but in the Christian community, we are often considered to be "watering down the truth" or told some guilt ridden thing if you are a democrat. I've flip flopped a bit over the years, but I feel like it's about each candidate that year and the current standing with our country. Like Billy, I will sometimes vote one way nationally and a different way locally. I am encouraged to read all this today. Here is a link to his older interview...

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8326362

With politic the hot topic these days, our small group has had the best discussions. In the end, I walked away feeling like, you can't legislate peoples choices. Well you can, that is what this is all about... but does that really change their heart? Is that really bringing them closer to God? Is that drawing them into our church family or pushing them away and building bitterness?

"Our compassion for others is an accurate gauge of our devotion to God." ~ Billy Graham

Welcome Winter

2008-11-03T16:53:00.000-08:00

It's good to be home with my family again. I spent ten days in beautiful Australia with my dear friend, Jenee. I'll post about that once I get the photos off her camera. On our last night in Australia it rained and we woke up to a drizzly morning the day we flew out. It was closure in a way. Time to leave. It seemed to travel with me and when I got home, it was rains and winds in the states too. I enjoy the break that nature gives me with rain. I cancel plans and cozy up with the kids for snuggles and books in bed. It's an excuse for hot chocolate. The rains came in perfect timing since I'm suffering a little jet lag and could use some time at home to unpack and settle back into things.

Rod did a stellar job. I love that while I was away, no matter how bad or miserable he was, he just said how good things were at home and told me the highlights of their time together. He's good like that; never complaining. I'm sure I complain enough for the two of us. Even if my complaint is simply announcing on the car ride my need to pee. I do admire his will to hold his tongue.

I just appreciated how well he rolled with it all from beginning to end. I'm proud to say he said he did 10 loads of laundry in the mix. It sounds like Bella was late to school a number of the days, and unfortunetly one work meeting, but overall he survived the mission and I returned to two happy healthy kids! It wasn't looking so bright on my departure. I was all ready to go, when Bella came down with awful stomach pains. Tears and rolling on the floor followed, so I phoned the on-call nurse and left Rod with the instruction. Shortly after going down the road, Rod called and said she vomited all in the car- bad start, like really bad start! I later found out she threw up another two times that night, which in itself was the beginning to his laundry days. I figured it could only get better from there though. And it did. He rocked it and welcomed me home with gratitude and love! It's good to be back. I love my family.

Colorado- Aussie Rules Nationals

2008-10-17T15:58:00.000-07:00

Rod and I got to slip away to Colorado for his Nationals of Australian Football. Usually I leave him to indulge in this boy weekend alone, but when the news of where it would be broke out, I told him it was all I wanted for my birthday present. So six months later, I finally got my gift. I've always wanted to go to Colorado because I've heard time and time again of it's beauty. So while I didn't see much besides footy fields and Wal-Mart, we did make it to once touristy sight, Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs.

We were driving along, turned a corner and there it was.It was simply stunning. Magnitude. Color. Presence. While we are normally the type who take the hike or loop around, it was still in the freak low 30's late in the afternoon, so we admired from our heated rental. The other highlight of the trip was at the end of the trip Rod told me the trip was way better with me there with him! :)

Our rental car also doubled as box seats for the girlfriends and wifey who made it out to support our men. It was so flippin' cold. After making a multiple Wal-Mart runs for some insulation, we still got soaked on the side lines! For the first game on Saturday we had layers, umbrella, parkas, beanies and more, but what I really needed was my water polo parka. We decided to bunker down in the car with the heater on for the second game. We told the boys, if they hear a honk, it's us cheering for them!

Post games we hit up a local BBQ joint for dinner and drinks.

Post game we simply hit the drinks.
Dave & Rocket
Cass and Jess (Jess knows SJSU polo girls Jen Sanders and Jamie Schneider- she married an Aussie- small small world)

We kept drinking beer in effort to warm up. Our logic didn't work- It was still FREEZING cold.

At the award ceremony... Rod took home a Outback Steakhouse gift certificate for some good scoring!

This is the last photo on my camera. These two began singing out endless Rugby song. Lyrics: unforgivable. I left.

Note Rodney's "party" shirt. Invite him to a party and he'll 9 times out of 10 arrive in this colorful number- classic!

Australia Bound- Yipee!

2008-10-15T17:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, well not the way we had been planning for the whole last year, but maybe even better?! I will be going to Australia without the kids or Rod!!! Yeah, at first I was thinking... what am I going to do? Where will the kids go each and everyday? So I aksed my dearest friend Jenee, who is looking to adopt two babes at once if she could donate any days to help out since she needs a little shock treatment like that... when it occured to me, "screw that idea, how about you coming with me???" At first she said quickly dismissed the idea, but as I began to fill her in on my cheap fare and free accomodation at the in-laws, she started to think why not?! Especially if she's destined for the stay at home gig or FTM (Full Time Mom- coined by my other dear friend, Christy!).

So a week later, here we are, two best friend head for Australia in less than two weeks! Can life get any sweeter?! I'm so excited. I can't believe this is how it turned out.

DIY

2008-10-06T16:02:00.000-07:00

I love the DIY (do it yourself) projects. Well most of the time. It's like a good work out. Maybe your pumped up before hand, but in the midst of it, you can be discouraged. However, once it's all said and done, you feel really good. You step back and admire your work (or workout) and feel accomplished. So here it is. I haven't sewn for a LONG time, but with a friend due with her first little girl I couldn't resist that soft fabric at the store that in boutiques sells for $85 for a blanket made of it! Mine was a quater of the cost and you get to pick out whatever you want.

Ah, I realize when I was in the fabric store the last couple times that I love colors and I love patterns. I am a big fan of black and white, but I can't resist all those fun patterns. So while at the store I picked up this cute apron book and that will be my next project.

Something about aprons, they make me feel empowered and femenine, two very womanly qualities I admire!

Surf Flair

2008-10-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

Surf Flair: You will find the most flair in beginner spots like Cowells, the experienced must set themselves apart. Flair includes but is not limited to:

Surfing with no leash

Paddling on your knees

Paddling with one foot up

Wearing a hat out (ok, I do that for sun protection)

Wearing sunglasses

Blowing a whistle to scare the beginners off YOUR wave

But the ultimate is...

The idiot who brings a flashlight out to sunset sessions to shine on the wave so he can see where he is going

Ummm... aren't fish (sharks) attracted to shiny objects especially at night when they like to feed!??!

The surf has been good, it's only getting better. I have been loving going after a long day of work. The sky changes all different colors as I watch the sun dissapear, the stars come out, and the water glasses off to perfection. Ah, God's creation is stunning out in the ocean. Sunset sessions are beaut, minus the idiot with the flashlight.

Bzzzz...

2008-10-02T13:26:00.001-07:00

STING. Luke's crying down by the car, while I still have one sleeping kid on my shoulder to lay in bed. I wish I could call on my super power... not sure which one, maybe the mommy double to be doing two things at once. I felt bad. His first bee sting and I couldn't just pick him up. I had to let him experience it alone while I put the babe down, then hurry down stairs for the rescue.

Star Gazing

2008-09-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

It was a slow hard day. Somehow we manage to not make it outside except for drop offs and pick ups. No fun. With two naps to manage, this is becoming more frequent than not. While I had given up on making it out, Rod hadn't. He came home late, at 7pm, but after dinner, we put sweatshirts over our pjs and laced up our sneakers to go for a walk in the dark!

It was so fun to be out past bedtime. The kids thought it was a special treat. Usually we do walks and the kids are on bikes or scooters or blades. Usually we do walks with some destination in mind. Not this time. We simply walked up up up the street behind our house until we could spy the ocean line of lights. Then across the neighborhood with no lights. Luke reached for my hand over and over again, something new to me. I loved it. Rod and I recalled the weekend events and visited like we were on a date. I loved it. As we began to walk down down down the other side of the hill, Bella said she was tired of walking, so we all four layed down on the sidewalk and looked up to the dark night sky for shooting stars. Bella has yet to see her first one! There we were, all on our backs pointing out constellations in the middle of our neighborhood with the occasional car passing by. I emptied my head of the busy day and rested with my family. It was peaceful. It was fulfilling. It was monday night.

Field Trip to the Fair

2008-09-19T11:56:00.001-07:00

Isabella's 1st grade class went to the Santa Cruz County Fair last Friday for a field trip. I really wanted to take Luke and was happy to hear that my Friday plans got canceled. So Luke and I jumped in the car and hooked up with Bella's group of 5 kids and 2 parents.

No offense to the two brave dad's who volunteered to chaperoon the 5 kids. However, let me tell you something... You don't bring them to the tables with hats, bags, pencils and loads of crap for the first activity! I mean isn't that common sense? Do they not know?!! I just spent 10 minutes consolidating my own camera, purse, and lunch to be handsfree all day (to grab Luke).

So of course, we are headed to the next activity and I get two, "mom will you hold these please?" "Uh, NO. If you want your hat you hold on to it." I take the bags and buckle them to my backpack. Sigh.

My favorite was hearing, not once, but twice from working parents who took the day off, "This is harder than work!" Yeah, puff puff.... It's my full time job. I know mom's rock. So I'm proud to be one! ;)

After Luke's last couple of Houdini acts at our last big venues (Mall and Boardwalk) ... I did a little tattoo stating:

IF LOST:
CALL JULIE
xxx xxx xxxx

I penned it on his right arm and right leg. It was that or the monkey leash, which I'm still building confidence in using as it gets less rave reviews than the tattooing.

Yeah! Pig Racing. Have you ever seen such a thing?! It was halarious. My favorite part was when they were announcing the names of the competetors, such as SpiderHam. I could see Bella from afar (she's the red hat on the mid-left standing up in the crowd). Anyway, they announce... "In the red, we have, Strawberry." In which Bella turns to her friend and matter of factly shakes her head with confidence, "I'm going for Strawberry."

The Luke Daily

2008-09-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

Luke likes to copy his surroundings. Unfortunately, his surroundings are Isabella and I.

Here wanted to wear my wrap that I wore for two weeks post hernia surgery. (Hernia from my pregnancy with him-bugger!) I like the cute buns hanging out.

Here he insist on wearing dress up like Bella and helping sort my tangled jewerly into ice cube trays. I like how boy he looks with a huge band-aid across his face. You never see girls with as many band-aids that this kid ends up with on any given day. Thank goodness for Costco 3 packs!
Swim Lessons- round 3. He loves the water, but sure can't swim- yet. He'll go charging in, jump off the side and do the dead mans float until someone plucks him out of the water. If only he could do that float on his back, I wouldn't worry so much!

Here Luke masters thee ol' peanut butter and honey. Building self-independence-right? He was pretty proud of himself - hence the big grin!

to fly or not to fly

2008-09-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

Gee... we finally worked out that Rod could ask for two weeks off work to fly back to Australia and take advantage of the Qantas special $998 through the end of November, only to find out he only has accumulated 18 hours of vacation time at his new job!! Yeah, hours. Not days- hours!

What a joke. Now what?! Still no offers on our house. Hmmmm... maybe a vacation to Oz just for me. Yeah, that's what Rod suggested! I wouldn't even know what to do with myself. I need to make it there before the 10th of January one way or another for visa purposes!

It's Official: I'm a Soccer Mom!

2008-09-16T16:05:00.000-07:00

Our new fall schedule is in full swing. Bella has hit the first grade and is checked in until 2:25pm everyday! She has soccer practice twice a week and a game every Saturday.

Luke has enrolled in swim lessons and a tumbling class with mom. In addition to all that, I got a job! Yep... here is my new little man and Luke's new best bud, Greyson!

The Waiting is the Hardest Part

2008-09-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

I'm back! This time though, no top secret info that might get hacked into and used against us. That was Rodney's paranoid thought about my last blog that detailed our efforts to go you know where!! Ah, poor paranoid husband. I'm a little bitter about having to delete my last blog. It held a wealth of information that has documented the last year of our journey. I can't believe I was so foolish to not print up my entries or at least write down the timeline bits and pieces. Anyway... on with the show!! Well, not really a show, just more waiting.