Sentimental Christmas

I am very much delighted that the Winter Season has shown up! Not only does the weather have me thinking about Christmas but all of the lights and decor that is out and about. I got our home in the swing of things over the past week; the tree is up and the decorations are set out, and the light are on the condo. This year I really want to enjoy Christmas for as long as possible. With all the cheer and festivity in the air is a reminder of how this season is a season of giving and love. And that  it is not about who has the best looking tree or get the most gifts but the gift of a baby boy who changed the world forever.

Last week while driving I heard Amy Grant's Emmanuel on the radio, this brought back a flood of wonderful memories. My mom use to crank up her CD actually it was probably a tape while we would get all of our ornaments out to hang on the tree. The tree trimming was always as special time in many ways, not only was is quality time with the family but we had some very simple traditions that always stuck. At time I must admit that I wished that we had that classic "Martha Stewart" looking tree but when I recall not only the traditions that have been established and what this time of year means I would not let one "perfect" tree replace all the years of our family tree. We each got hang our ornaments on the tree and we would rotate one at a time from oldest to youngest. As the year passed and the amount of ornaments grew I found that each ornament held a memory or story in my heart  As I hung the ornaments on my own tree I realized how many I have now after 28 years and not one of them did I buy myself. All of the ornaments that I have are were given as gifts. What a special gift of love ornaments are.

Looking at my own tree now it is a storybook of  laughs as well. I say laughs because amidst all the cheer that I mentioned there was also some arguments over who's was who's growing up. Sometimes it would get rather intense and so my Mom began to label the box with a first initial. I will never forget this one ornament that now probably bears stronghold in my heart because of all the torment it took to get it. It is a little Eskimo sitting on a block of clear plastic made to look like ice and he has a present hanging off his fishing pole. Well, every year without fail my older sister Janelle would say, "the Eskimo is mine!" and take it from my pile to hers and exchange for her penguin with snow shoes. I don't hold on to this story with any grudge but as a laughable memory. Believe me on day my her kids will hear it too! I actually looked the ornament up on line and come to find out this little Eskimo is worth some $$. Come to find out it is a part of a special series that Hallmark did in the 80's. I guess my sister was on to something beyond her years.

The prized Eskimo Ornament 

Another tradition that always done was the placement of the last ornament on the tree. This was something that my parents would do. They would kiss, and then place their "First Christmas" ornament on the tree together. As a young children you can probably guess that our reactions was "eeewww gross!" but now as an adult I see the sentiment behind it. Most leave the star or angel for the last touch before lighting up the tree, but this special tradition is something that I have carried into my own little family now.

After taking a look at our tree I know that I would never find its way in to Better Home and Gardens magazine, and I am 100% content. As of last year we started using an artificial tree which many will argue takes away not only the smell of a real tree but some charm. And I must also admit that when we have a large front room or kids we will definitely make the switch back to the real deal. However for now, this is not only a cost effective easy route to go it is another reason that I find double comfort and love in celebrating Jesus this season and not just the tree and what is under it.

Thank You for saying, "No"??

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. I was truly shocked when I looked at my calendar and noticed how soon it really is. During this season of thanks I know that I have so much to really be thankful for, this year I have seen God bless me in way that I thought were absolutely impossible or things that could never be changed. Yet, sometimes it is really hard to say thank you to God for saying no or closing that door of opportunity. About 2 months ago I heard that on the radio, " when was the last time that you told God thank you for saying No". That really got me thinking....when was the last time that  I was thankful for that "No". Sometimes it is easy said than done...is what keeps ringing in my heart and mind this past month. This past week was really tough for me, I found myself saying to God, thank you for saying No and I really meant it...however my own worldly fears seems to get the best of me so many times this week. It is so much of human nature that we want to fix everything, get it done ourselves, and it be our way. Letting go is something that I have always struggled with, but I know that if I don't let me fear and my inability to 'fix it' go then I will be consumed by it.

Focusing in on what I have to be thankful for is very easy at times, but to be thankful for a "No" is not easy but a must. Being thankful that God is a faithful and finding comfort in His timing is very humbling. My impatience at times brings out the qualities that I don't want to see in myself at all. What I have really learned this past week is that it is so hard to let go, and let God. Things are easily thought but hard to truly produce. I want to work on making my words active. Not just saying I'm OK with it but that I really show that I am.. I can't be a brat that wants what I want when I want it. Life doesn't work that way. Last night in our bible study we talked about be humble, gentle, and patient. We were asked to define these words and without a dictionary it can be hard to define them, even though I know what they mean it is difficult to put into words. Overall, I felt a calmness when I think back to the passage. My struggles are not alone or singled out, life is a journey and equipping myself with the proper tools is essential.

So, seeing that this season of thanks is upon us is a reminder to me that although giving thanks is a way of appreciating and loving on those around us. It is not only about the things that make us feel so great and have the warm fuzzies inside. It is about everything and not just be thankful but also grateful.


Ephesians 4:2 - Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Pumpkin Patch & Pumpkin Painting

Me, AJ, Anna, Belle, & Kara Perry Farms -2010 

It is such a delight and blessing to be able to spend quality time with my nephew Anthony and my niece Belle. They are both growing up so fast and I just love to capture all the moments that I can with them at this age. A couple weekends ago we went to the pumpkin patch and picked out some great pumpkins. The kids had so much fun looking at all the different sizes, shapes, and even the smashed ones. Well, actually I think that spent most of the time looking for the smashed ones. Their little faces were glowing with excitement. I truly cherish these times because I know that it is only a matter of time before they are going to hit the 'i'm too old for that' years. Being an Aunt or as they say Tati (ta-tee) has made me realize that the heart of a child is so pure and innocent. Spending time loving on them and investing in their development, and growth is something that  I will always hold near and dear to my heart. 

insistent on getting pictures with the smashed pumpkins

AJ the scarecrow & Belle the pumpkin

Got a great wagon for the pumpkins

After much consideration of what kind of project we should do I decided instead of doing the traditional pumpkin carving we would do pumpkin painting. Carving can be fun, if your idea of fun is digging into a pumpkin scooping the guts (super gross!!), and then tediously etching a face into the front. I have never really been into pumpkin carving. And in being 100% honest it is probably because I have never really been good at it. But, after trying the pumpkin painting it will be a must every year. Not only was is less time consuming but the mess was pretty easy to contain and to pick up. Also, depending on the age the work can really only be done by the adults or kiddos that are old enough to work with sharp objects safely. This is not to slight anyone that has the tradition or love of pumpkin carving...But for those of you that want to try something different of be creative with color I definitely recommended pumpkin painting. 

Supplies needed: 


Pumpkins 
10 pack of Crayola Washable Paint 
3 piece Absorbent paint brush 
mini or regular muffin pan 
2-3 garbage bags 
 scotch tape 


I picked up the paint and brushes at Michaels for under $10, the washable paint is highly recommended easy to clean off kids. Absorbent paint brushes are a must for young kiddos, the paint stayed on the brush and it was easy to switch colors without them mixing. I used the muffin tin to keep the colors separate. Using the household garbage bags I cut them open and then scotch taped them to the table to less mess and easy overall clean up. 


*overall cost will vary depending on pumpkins selections and what you have at home 

Belle & I - first year of pumpkin painting

A special "boy" colors  pumpkin for AJ 

Fall how I have missed you...

I love all seasons of the year and I am so happy that Fall is here and upon us now. I uses to have a favorite season (summer because of my bday) but now I have realized that I just love them all but for different reasons. Although this last week has had record temperature in the 90's you would not think that Fall is here. But it is and has been for a few weeks according to the calendar. I have enjoyed this Indian summer but its time for the real Fall to begin. What I mean by 'real' is the feeling of the Fall season and all the treat that it offers. October is already half way through Halloween is just around the corner and Thanksgiving is on its way. This time of year is very special to me and I wanted to take some time today to reflect on what I love about this time of year. 

Family & Friends - spending time with family and friends is really important to me. This season gives you a little of both within two months. Halloween is always fun time to get together with friends and have a party as well as seeing the adorable little ones in their costumes. I have never been a fan of what Halloween actually is about but the fall festivities/festivals and costume parties are a blast. Then comes Thanksgiving! Not only is there excellent food, but it is a time to spend with family and reflect and give thanks for all of the blessing that you have. I think that you should give thanks on a daily basis; however this is a wonderful time to fellowship in the company of family and friends relax, watch the parade, or some football. 

Atmosphere - The smell of rain is something that always refreshes me. I was not a fan of El Nino when it rained every day and night but I do enjoy the rain. It also a great time to bust out the warm blankets and cuddle which is another one of my fav things to do. As well as the beginning of candle time! Of course you can light candles year round but I love the smell of the fall spices and jack-o-lantern on the porch just makes me smile. 

Lattes - I love my pumpkin spice lattes!! and they are only around this time of year. This mornings latte is really what inspired me to write this blog. All lattes in my opinion are delish! But, the pumpkin spice has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of eating pumpkin pie with my Dad. We both love pumpkin pie and every fall we don't just save it for Thanksgiving (LOL). And this year now that I've started baking pies from scratch I am going make my first homemade pumpkin pie for him! 

Leaves - The colors that the leaves turn during fall is truly an amazing sight. The bright orange, yellow, and red is a sight that I love to see. Nature has always been a love of mine, and the transition that trees undergo during fall is something of gorgeous proportions. When I was little my mom use to let me collect the leaves and then press them in between book to preserve them. One year I tried to scotch tape the leave instead of laminating...let's just say to my utter disappointment my collection was ruined. Now, I am not a fan over raking the leaves but I do like to make a big mess and run through the piles and roll in them. It sound childish and it is...Its something that can let the little kid inside of you out again. 

Walk it out

Mission Peak reflecting off Quarry Lake 

With the rainy season approaching I have a small twinge of sadness. I do enjoy the rain, but I will miss my morning walks around Quarry Lakes here in Fremont. There is nothing like getting out in the morning air to start the day! I wanted to share some of the beautiful pictures that I took a few weeks back. Taking a morning walk not only allows me to refresh my mind and spirit but it gives me a chance to hang with my Mom. Seeing the sun come up over the Mission Peak is just a daily reminder that a new day is upon me.

Bright morning sun

To clarify  I don't wake up everyday whistling a tune as I skip out the door, and that is another reason why I walk. To get it ALL out, pounding down the trail one step at at time can be a real stress reliever. Stress is something that I think we all deal with on a daily basis. I could walk around my neighborhood to get it out but hey when you want to let there it all go there is nothing like belting it out over the open trail (not too loud don't want send out distress signals)

Mission Peak in the distance

 Many a mornings I think I have scared a the fishermen out there with my voice from across the lake. We have even befriended a few people out there and  there. This one jogger named Jim that always says, "Wow, Mom you're a great listener". (and yes, she is a great listener). Walking has definitely improved my quality of life and it is always great to get some daily exercise in, so when the fall/winter months roll in I will be hitting the gym in lieu of Quarry Lakes. But I'm really going to miss the view!

Legacy of Love

Forever in my heart

My Grandma was an amazing woman in more ways than I could ever put into words. Recently, she has been coming to mind often. I even have had this reoccurring dream that she is sitting right there talking to me about current issues. This is not one of those 'creepy' visits from the beyond kind of dream but definitely very life like. I know that she has gone home to a much better place to be with God, her husband, and other loved ones that we have lost but I still have that selfish pull that says, "I want you here with me!". She passed away around the time that I was 16 years old, so I did get to spend all of my young childhood, and adolescent years with her and for that I do feel truly blessed. However, I still miss her the older I get. When I got engaged to Eddie, I was over joyed and excited ready to plan the wedding and start the guest list however I knew that not only would it be one person short but that it would be short of any grandparents. With all the joy surrounding my planning I just couldn't shake the feeling of wanting to have my grandma meet Eddie (not for approval) but because I know she would of loved him! My wedding has come and gone (April 09) and I know that all the wishing and wanting in the world will never allow me another conversation, hug, or simple I love you.

A few years before she passed, she got together with my Aunt Mille to create a recording on a cassette tape and labeled "A Legacy of Love". I have always cherished this recording of her voice because I have many pictures of her but to be able to hear her voice is such a special treasure. Shortly after Eddie and I were married I played the tape for him, and someday I will play it for my kids. There are things that I will never forget that are not on the tape like: how she had the softest hands, the nicest nails, the smell of her compact, cracklin' oat bran, blueberry pancakes, how Janelle and I told her when she snores she sounds like "Darth Vader", Skip-Bo, her automatic card shuffler, hot water in Tutu mug, or her pink Extra gum packs. To be honest after this small list I have tears rolling down my cheeks. I just miss her so much!

Today I thought about what she would think about how the times have changed. She had beautiful penmanship and now a days most just send and email, or how I changed my profile picture on Facebook to her and me would she be on Facebook for me to tag her in the photo? (her daughters are on FB!). This is a woman who saw this county take shape through the depression, wars, and politics. So I don't know that she would be so impressed by technology or think it silly? To end on a happy note, I am proud to be her granddaughter and to still have the memories of her legacy is enough for me.

Homemade Happiness

Domesticating myself has not been an easy or all the time enjoyable task. When Eddie and I first got married there was no switch that turned on and put me on auto pilot towards building and maintaining the home life that I had always envisioned for us. Through many burnt dinners, re-arranging of furniture, yard work, and reorganization of closets and cabinets I finally feel like I have worked my way up to homemaker status level 1. The reason I say that I am on level 1 is because I know that I have a long way to go still, and many lessons still to be learned. It is interesting to see that the art of being a homemaker has undergone much scrutiny and changes  in the last 30 years. Many women that choose to go back/have to work instead of staying at home, or are able to stay home but aren't Martha Stewart or Betty Cooker wannabes are scrutinized and it become a loose loose situation. Of course this also goes hand in to hand with society changes, women working full-time, and even making more money then the men that the art of being a homemaker has gotten somewhat lost in translation. However, no matter what your situation may be I  still feel that it is the woman's place to provide a home for her husband and family.It is not a matter of being a "Super Woman" and doing it all but women need to take more credit for how we are designed. 

I'll share the story that my Mom shared with me I call it the "Compartment Story". Here is how it goes: When a man goes to do a task or take care of something he opens the compartment drawer to that specific item and works through it, then before moving on to the next task he must close the that compartment. This is a sufficient way to do things nothing wrong with finishing a task before you start another. However, with women we often have anywhere from 3,4,5, even 10 compartments drawers open at any given time. We can juggle laundry, work, groceries shopping, meetings, bills, etc, etc.....This visualization shed so much light on my own life. This is not to say that men are incapable of multi-tasking but to show that we are just wired differently. The reason why I share this story is because it depicts much of my daily life. This is no slight to my wonderful hubby but I have often wondered if my expectation overboard or what!? Here I am done working an 8 hour shift, stopped by the store on the way home, got two pots on the stove, something in the oven, while cleaning as I go; and there he is opening one compartment at a time! To be completely honest is was rather frustrating until my Mom shared this story. Its not that Eddie can't do what I do he just does it at his own manly pace. 

 The art of being a homemaker is not about "knowing your place", making meals, or waiting on your family and and foot it is about; it about the home-life and quality of life that is made. I also want to convey that being a homemaker is not everyones cup of tea or lifestyle personally it is just that I am not willing to let go my childhood dream of being an excellent homemaker for my family. Even in my current situation I am working full time, and going to school  growing up I have been able to draw some wonderful homemaking tips from my Grandma, Mom, Aunts, and others. And I want to continue to strive to make a home from my family the "old school" way and someday pass a legacy on to my girls. Being a homemaker is not only about making meals and waiting on your family and and foot it is about; it about the home-life and quality of life that is made. Recently, my wonderful co-worker opened her home to me to give me a lesson on pie making. I had such a great time, making something from scratch (with her instruction). It takes more than walls and a roof to create a home, and there is no shame in wanting to provide your family with the comforts of homemade happiness in the 21st century. 

Back to school

I don't have any children of my own that are back in school it's me that is back to school. This is going to be my second semester at Ohlone and I am totally excited! Unlike most kids that I graduated with I decided to make my own way which has now turned into the "hard way". I know that people of all walks of life go back to college for additional training, changing their career , or just for fun. But the route that I have taken I would not really recommend for others to take on. Between working full-time and going to 3 hour lectures at night it makes time management a must. Age is not really the issue at Ohlone or any other college for that matter, I know that I am not alone in going back to school at my age or stage of life. Yet it doesn't make it easier. School has allowed me at this age to rediscover my interest and talents if you would have asked my 10 years ago I had no clue what truly interested me. In growing my mind and knowledge base I found my niche of what I really want to do (Urban Planning and Development) and hope to transfer next fall or spring into SF State. By letting go of my self doubt I surprised myself with a 4.0 GPA last semester and I will be really working hard towards keeping that up this semester.  I am keeping my eye on the prize so to speak and thinking of how great it will be to hang a Bachelors degree on my wall and also for the first time participate in an actual graduation ceremony (woo-hoo!!)  8 years ago I didn't really imagine myself ever completing school; working in the the real estate field I thought I'd found my career, but  quickly I realized it was not going to be long lasting or what I really wanted to do. My advice I would tell anyone is live life like it matters and not just a daily grind, choose to love what you do and you can really make an impact.

Veintiocho - 28 - Achtentwintig - Twenty Eight

No matter what language, writing it out in English, or numerically seeing my age it's all the same! I am officially 28 years old. I am definitely not in any type of late twenties crisis, or depressed about becoming twenty eight it is that I just can't wrap my head around how OLD it sounds to younger folks! For instance, when I was younger (16 to about 23) someone who was 28 was like a dinosaur. Hey, I know it sounds mean but in all honesty that is what I thought: "once you hit over 23 yrs old in age you're really really old". The more and more I say "i'm 28", it still always sounds old, even though I know it's not old to most out there it still seems old to me!

Looking back at the last 5 years since turning twenty three there has been so much change and growth happening in my life. So much wisdom has been gained and that is one of the best things that comes with age and age alone. To be book smart is not the same as being wise or full of wisdom and each year is full of new beginnings and challenges to face and that is something that will never change. Life will not stop even if I order it to just as twenty eight still sound old and I guess that will have to be OK! "My name is Shannon and I am 28 years old" (even thought I know I can still pass for 24!)

 I am the type of person that likes to have little saying that put a 'bad' situation into a good light. Here are some of my new sayings: 

• "Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional"  
• "You are only as old as you feel" (gotta be careful with this one! on certain days you could be older than you actually are!) 
• "Age is an issue of mind over matter.  If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
• "Thirty is the new twenty"
• "There is no old age. There is, as there always was, just you."
• "Old age is always 15 years older than I am now"
• "Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been."

That's what faith can do

A little over a month ago I started attending a women's bible study. Studying the bible in years past was never something that I was really 'into' or wanted to be into. I honestly did not know what to expect because this was my first small group. Of course I have been to Sunday school  and youth groups before in the past, but never participated in a small group as an adult. In taking the steps to join the group I was rather apprehensive; thinking do  I really have the time, am I in the 'right place' (spiritually) to join...an so on and so on. But I made the leap out of my comfort zone and joined!

This week I left the group with questions about what my vision for my life was and how to walk the path to get there. Often I find myself having day dreams, or having thoughts of grandeur but that is not what I am talking about by 'vision'. What I am talking about it the overall big picture stuff of life(my marriage, family, career, finances, everything!). The main focus of this weeks group was self disciple and how that applies to our lives and culture. First off I know self discipline something that I struggle with immensely UNLESS....I can see the goal in sight I often give in to self indulgent ways. So this got my mind racing.....about all the connecting point between the vision that I have for my life and self discipline.

Through the connection process the word that kept coming to mind was faith. What is the biblical meaning of the word faith? what do I put my faith in? without faith what would my life be like? And how is my faith connected to self discipline? In answering these questions it made me really deal with how I am shaping my vision and path that I am taking in life; and if I was to draw out my life's journey at times has been the straight and narrow and other times it is a chaotic maze. The constant that I have in my life is my faith in God.  Through applying my faith in God and yielding to obedience through self discipline and not my self indulgent ways is truly how my vision can be obtained. SO, the last question that I asked myself was, what can faith do? And I know that I don't have all the answers but this is what I have seen faith do: heal, offer hope, forgive, change what was thought to be the unchangeable.


Hebrews 12:11-13:
No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. Make level paths for your feet,so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. 

Morning Tailgate

This morning like most morning I met my Mom to exercise, chat, and get coffee. Usually we have to decide to go to either Peet's or Starbuck's...but, today she surprised me with a coffee tailgate! It was so cute!! It was a nice surprise to switch things up, and also offered a great scenery at Lake Elizabeth. It is really great to be able to sit back and just enjoy my Mom's company and a good cup of coffee. This morning's experience really made me stop and think of how blessed I am to have such a great Mom. For years our relationship as mother and daughter struggled and now we couldn't be closer. If I could go back I am sure there is plenty that I would change but the strife that we went through in the end brought us much closer once we could get past all the hurt and drama. This time that I get to spend with my Mom I will always cherish and hold dear to my heart. I don't like to even think about a time without her (but know that's reality), and know that our heart to heart morning chats will be a part of the legacy that I pass on to my kids someday. To be a fraction of the Mom that she has been to me...that is my goal.

Home Alone

Eddie has left on a jet plane...and landed in Vegas today! Of course it is bitter sweet, because I want him to enjoy his mini-vaca (here comes the but) but, its always such a strange feeling sleeping alone and having the place all to myself. It is always good for us to spend time a part because "absence makes the heat grow fonder" and we don't have kids yet so be free while you can (LOL). My only problem really with being alone at home is when it's dark. Here I am going to be 28 years old in less than a month and I am still scared of the dark. I could blame it on the shows I watch, our violent society, or the fact that the freaks come out at night; but I think it really boils down to its time to grow up and not be afraid. Instead of spending my time checking the locks and looking over my shoulder I am looking on the bright side. I HAVE THE PLACE TO MYSELF!! This doesn't mean that I'm going through a party of anything (maybe a cleaning party) but it will be great to relax and control the remote, and watch my chick shows with out contest!

You are always your worst critic

Some will say, "you are your worst critic" seeing what others don't see and being overly analytical. However, there is something to be said about observations and fact. Case in point, observation: It is funny what can motivate you, a picture from Easter 2 years ago is what did the trick for me this time around (*disclaimer: this is a bad pic but I could really tell a difference in weight)  Fact: I have put on over 25+lbs in  2 years! Motivation is something that I have always struggled with! Over a year ago I could not imagine eating half of the things that I have been consuming in recent months. Now, after all the months it took be to loose and be at my lowest weigh in, I am closer than ever to my original weight. My wedding served at the original motivation in loosing 45lbs the first time around and it is one thing when I put back on 5-10lbs, but now it's pushing 25+!!  Needless to say, my motivation has kicked into high gear yet again and I am recommitting to a food journaling. When I began food journaling, I used weight watcher, this taught me to be accountable in tracking my calories and it amazingly worked! Now, I gonna give the Daily Plate (Livestrong: free website). Today is my first day! Due to the fact that I scarfed down a doughnut, latte, and pastry I was intrigued to wait until Monday....BUT that won't change what I already ate and why wait! It's never going to be the perfect time to say no I don't want some cake or whatever goody is calling my name. Commitment and dedication is not something that comes easy but the payout is so much better than being unhappy or dissatisfied with myself. I will do my best to continually blog about my weight loss and chronicle the journey this time around. Hears to re-commitment to being healthy!

The never ending "TO DO LIST"

Sometimes I feel like my "To Do List" never ends and I cannot even  remember where it began. This all stated back in April when I really wanted to get a handle on the organization at home, and now I am realizing a need a daily "To Do/Check List" to keep all of this multi tasking together. With all of the events for family, friends, and work it can all seem so overwhelming. First things first, I need to get a calendar in my home and on the fridge!! And try to remember that I am not Super Woman and I cannot be in two places at once. Figuring in time for it all can leave my head spinning at times, and leaves me thinking....And we want to have kiddos in a couple years YIKES!! All in all I know that to do this all or complete my lists I cannot just lean on my own understanding, and the older I get it is not a curse or my time running out.

We are gearing up for summer birthday's, Art & Wine, Niles Flea Market, etc. etc. More to come..

Summer Time!

Wow, it's been so long since my last entry and so many new and different event have already happened. The main reason that I started blogging was to not only write down all my great ideas(haha sarcastic laugh inserted) but to also chronicle my life.  We are now finishing up the first official week of summer and I always find myself saying "where does the time go!". Summer time is my favorite time of the year, and there is always so much to do! This summer was headed up by a family trip down south the Disneyland, we all had a fantastic time. It was so great to get away for a trip and relax with the family and explore the scenic route and some of the LA area. On the way down we stopped off at Casa de Fruta a family favorite! We stayed at the beautiful Worldmark Resort in Anaheim about 2 miles from Disneyland thanks to Mom and Dad for the great accommodations and a wonderful trip. Today is the last day of June and I am and looking forward to a great 4th of July this upcoming weekend!

Spring Cleaning vs. Hoarding

Spring cleaning is here time to reorganize and reduce what has been piling up over the last year. Or at least that is how the plan always start out. I know that I am not a 'dirty' hoarder like the shows on TLC or A&E but man, why is it so hard for me to let go of somethings? I try to justify each little item that I hold on to and that is exactly what I see on these shows. It would be taking it a bit far to say that I need a psychologist to hold my hand to make the decisions to let things go, but it is something that I struggle with. This year I  have developed a system as a plan of attack. My thoughts are that by giving myself some guidelines instead of just randomly sorting through things may give me a better hope for this years stuff. The old saying goes, "you'll leave this world with what you came in with...Nothing!" and that is what I had in mind in the developed my 5 rules which I am hoping will make this spring cleaning a success this time around. I know it won't be easy but I am up for the challenge!

Rule #1 - When in Doubt throw it OUT!! (or recycle)

• No second guessing...time to be strong and go with your gut. 

Rule #2 - Just because something is "still good" doesn't mean "it's a keeper" 

• This one is going to be hard  to follow! I will need to bring in reinforcements to enforce this rule!  

Rule # 3 - Doubles maybe but Triple of something means it's time to donate. 

• Exception for dress clothes,  and every girl need more than one black dress.  

Rule #4  - Share it, if I absolutely cannot let it go

•  (clothing, shoes, or kitchen items specifically) let a sister or friend that is not know to destroy or never return borrow it for a season, maybe seeing them with it will inspire the use of  it more often or the ability to finally let it go.

Rule #5 - Don't be a sentimental sap if you're not going to scrap. 

• OK, if it's not going to make its way into my scrapbook or memory boxes time to say good bye. This will be the hardest of them all!! 

It's our Anniversary....

This weekend Eddie and I celebrated our 1st Anniversary married! This was so special although we have been together for 6 years this summer it is our first official one to celebrate. As the day went by we found ourselves saying, "this time last year, we were nervous, excited, or just said I do..." and as day  got further along I had the same sadness come over me that I did on our wedding day..I didn't want the day to be over or the moment to end! But what I have learned is that over the years we have more to look forward to, and there is nothing to be sad about only to be excited about. We decided to celebrate in San Francisco at Pier 39. This is something that we had yet to do as a couple so being tourist for the day sounded like something better that just dinner. Like our wedding day we couldn't have asked for better weather, it was sunny and warm with a nice breeze off the bay.We took a walk around the pier after lunch, and then it was back home for a relaxing evening in with a movie. Although it was not a limo ride, a fancy dinner or exotic trip it was all I ever needed. Eddie was so cute he even made me a homemade bouquet from our garden which was more precious and special than 12 dozen long stem roses.. This year I have grown so much and now I feel like I have grown more into the title of being a wife! There is times when it seems so overwhelming and I continue to give all my anxiety to God and place out marriage in his loving hands. I love being Mrs. Tostado and I am blessed to have a wonderful husband. Together we have started out on this amazing journey of life and I am so glad to have him as my partner. 

Yep, I'm a blogger now!

I have always thought who blogs...well obviously a lot of people do and now I am one of them :) I really didn't know what to write about for my first post so I decided to keep it short and sweet. This years has been filled with so many new beginnings, wonderful blessing, and obstacles as well. Can't wait to start sharing more.