Arden Change

So it's been three weeks now that I've been back to work. I'm starting to get back into the routine of getting up early in the morning and making coffee, eating breakfast, shower, change, make-up then go. I'm also trying to get back into the grove of running. It's hella cold outside, but I gotta do it! My motivation: getting back into my "skinny" jeans haha.

Well, I can't even believe that X-mas is like in 5 days yikes! Soooo not ready. We'll I'm aiming to get the Xmas shopping out of the way tomorrow. Got some done this evening which was crazy. We went to Arden Mall, and man has it changed! There's A/X there now, Kate Spade, and Juicy Couture. They also moved GAP and BeBe. I think there were other stores, but those are the ones I remember. I'm hella excited there's a Kate Spade store there. Not to many people wear Kate Spade but I like her bags cause they're not to expensive, and they're cuuute. Maybe, I'll save for this bag that I saw there.

I'm hoping I get everything I need to get done before it's too late. Most important thing is getting the gifts for the kids. Adults...you guys just get a Merry Christmas greeting and a hug! Sorry guys, Santa's broke.

We're having our Xmas party tomorrow, we're also doing a white elephant. I think that'll be a lot of fun. Till next time. I'm getting hella sleepy...............

Full tank!

So I haven't filled up any car in like ages! So yesterday we went to put gas on the Suburban at Costco and yup, it was $1.75!!! That's soo cah-razy that like three months ago it was over $3.25 and it's now half that. I know in the bay it's prolly more, but I'm glad that our full tank is $40-$50 vs before it was $100 easy. So I'm hoping we have time to go to the snow sometime before X-mas since gas is so cheap. Gotta look at my schedule..uhhhhh..I have work on the weekends. :)

Twilight

So Katie, Glo and I watched the movie Sunday night...it was aight I guess. Very patchy..but that's expected. I hated though they that totally changed things..like I so did not picture her house at Forks to be like that. I totally expected a little more chemistry between Edward and Bella. And the day when he first saw her in the book vs the movie...MOVIE..hella dogged her and acted sick. BOOK..um was mad and couldn't stop looking at her. Oh well, I guess they did the best they could.

I was planning on taking a break from the saga, cause I just started reading Marley and Me..now I think I'll be reading two books again. GREAT! Gotta find time..gotta find time.

Change

There's been a whole lot of changes that have happened in my life within the past 4 weeks. I just realized that it's been 4 weeks since I've blogged. I know I attempted to blog, but just never got around to it and/or just didn't want to blog about what was going on. It was very personal and hurtful times.

Today...today was a good day. It was my first day back to work. I am now officially part of WAMU now a part of CHASE. Yup! I had the interview two and a half weeks ago, hella nerve racking! I haven't had an interview in like 5 years. It's crazy! I was all sweatin and shiet. Then just had to kinda wait to find out if I got picked. I was referred by a great friend Roberta. Thanks Roberta! Then...got a call saying that I will need to proceed w/ taking a drug test and fingerprinting, background etc..I wasn't really worried about the whole thing, I was just praying that this part of being hired would come. With all the bad that's been happening and the hardships that we've been going through...I needed to feel like there was a light at the end of the tunnel. And I was offered the position last week and got a higher pay rate then expected! Woohoo! (haha..old WAMU logo thing for ya) So yes, it was my first day of work and it was very hard for me to get back into the swing of things by not having the kids. But you know what, it's steady income and I have med benefits. Anthony's so sweet..he got me a gift for going back to work. Instead of flowers, he got me sugar rose flowers. I have to take a pic an upload..totally sweet and different.

The past few weeks...
Well, it's been hard and very tiring for the whole family because we pretty much lost everything. It's been real tough with the economy in a slump. It hurts so much more when it hits home. I really hated that we had to become part of the statistic but oh well, it's life. So we had to move not only our home but the shop. So yes, that's a whole lotta moving. I've never had to put anything into storage and had to do so starting 4 weeks ago. Thank you to all who have helped us move. It was hard for me to pack anything and just go through the day cause I would be in tears..so I have many thanks to Joce, Oliver, Ning, Glo, Manny, DJ, Alvin, and even Constantine who helped us after moving. Deep down it's really appreciated. I'm glad I have great friends and Anthony's family.

Its still hard for us to look at the fact that we had to move everything, but I know things will get better. We have a temporary roof over our head for now, until we find a different place to stay. I am hoping we are able to save enough money aside to just get a rental for a year or more, or even just have good savings. That's my goal.

Well, I have to look at my kids and know that there's another day coming...its sad that some family of mine that meant a lot to me aren't there anymore. But that's not a decision I made. At this point, I've accepted the fact that they just won't be there when I really need them.

Enough of that...change is good, thus far. I hope and pray better things come..

"Dis is all we hab"

Talk about either being rude, or just being herself! So we went to Walgreens earlier and I was looking around for some make up and brushes that a customer suggested to me. So I passed up some make-up brushes, cause she mentioned they were only $10.99 and the ones I saw were Salon Selection which were $15.99. SOoo I thought, "those can't be it then" keep looking.

I asked a lady there, and she was a "hip" filipino lady that just has that mad look. Okay, so for those who are filipino, you know how some aunties, uncles and/or friend's moms just have that mad look. Like they don't easily smile. They aren't mad, they just look mad. Well she had that look on her face. So thought nothing of it, cause heck my mom has that "intimidating" look all the time. I asked her if they carried a certain brand of brushes and the make up and all she yelled to me was "Dis is all we hab!" "See dis section, we don't curry anyting else but dis" But she said it like she was really mad. But like I said, that's probably just her being herself!

(Sigh) only at Walgreens haha.

New to Elk Grove

We (AJ, Leanna and I) went to a different park today which is off of Sheldon road after AJ went to school. When we got there I saw someone with two kids but they were at the baseball field. So of course, didn't think much of it, just did the usual and let AJ play at the park. We had our little picnic and then he went off and played.

So, us being "moms" we start asking the age of the kids, where in Elk Grove we were from etc etc. And I made a new friend. Her name is Mariah and she moved from Concord. She has two kids a boy and a girl. Her son is 18 mos old and named Jacob, and her daughter's name is Heidi and I believe she said she was 7 months old. She seems really cool. AJ and Jacob played for a little bit. I mean, AJ is a little bit older, but he followed AJ everywhere and AJ kept telling him he was 4 haha.
Anyways, we have a play date next Friday @ Funtastic.

She totally reminded me of me when we first moved out to this part of town to our first house. I didn't know anybody. I was still pregnant, and then when AJ was born, and was finally able to be out in the sun without oxygen and his heart monitor...I didn't have many moms to talk to. I mean, I was new to the whole thing. It was so funny she asked me, "Where can I find a drive thru starbucks?" Haha. I soo understand her feelings with having to haul two kids around.

She's new new. Her fam just moved her this past Monday. It's crazy she only got her house for 280K and it has a pool it's two story and she said approx 2500 sq ft. Crazee! Well, for me it's always cool to meet new moms.

Angel Hair Shrimp Pasta

So when I hung out w/ Winnie last week, or was it the week before..anyways, I had at her house Angel Hair Pasta w/ shrimp, mint and basil. I made it once before I believe it was the Sat before the wedding and it turned out OK. I'm cooking it again tonight but changed up somethings. I added some stuff to it and tried to make it a little more healthier. For instance, I used whole wheat angel hair pasta instead. I also added mushrooms (I was craving for mushrooms for some strange reason) and kept the mint, basil, and shrimp. Oh and I added tomatoes (I guess for color haha). We're having seafood tonight..so hopefully it tastes good.

Thanks for the recipe Winnie-Anne! Since this whole weight concern I have with myself, I'm trying really hard to eat healthy. If anyone has some good recipes they'd like to share, please let me know.

Time-Out Rooms

I never knew this existed ! This sure didn't occur when I was in elementary school Crazzee!

Stair Master..and another weekend to party..

My thighs hurt! I've never tried the stair master, until this morning. I went on it for only 15 mins, and mun it hurt! Talk about walking up stairs...hahahaha. It sucked cause today my work out was only for 50 mins. I woke up late, so I couldn't go my normal time at 5. I left here around 5:45 only allowing me to work out until 6:50. I try to get back by 7ish so I can come home to cook breakfast.

I also did that core excercise where you have your elbows holding you up as you lay flat and your weight is on your arms and your toes. I made myself raise one leg up and did two sets of that. Gotta get my core muscles back.

Well, it's FRIDAY. And today, well its Oliver's Bday! Happy Birthday O! We're suppose to hang out w/ O and Joce later. I'm not sure what we're doing yet. I know that tomorrow we're suppose to go over to their house for a get together. I think. Well that's what Tuan mentioned to me.

Gotta run, Ling Ling is awake once again. It's feeding time.

Personal Trainer

I had my appointment this evening w/ a personal trainer named Jessica. It was cool, cause I got to kind of get an idea of what it would be like if I signed up with her. Intially when Tuan and I joined the gym, we get one free session w/ a trainer. I haven't seen a personal trainer in years! I mean, I had a friend before on base @ Travis but that was like in 01 or something like that. Hella long ass time ago.

Anyways, I did some stuff w/ her and it was a decent 30 min work out. I really want to consider signing up but man it's BANK! I mean like for 12 sessions $1500 and that's three times a week. I have to talk to Tuan about that one, cause mun..we're already complaining about day care for the kids. I don't know if getting skinny for that amount he'd let me swing it. We'll see.

What's cool about her though, is she's a runner. I really want to run a 5K by next July. I also want to lose 40 Lbs. And she told me if I train w/ her she's willing to run w/ me outside the time of our training just so I can get there to running 5K by two months. That's freakin awesome if I could do that. But man, gotta look at the money side of things. All I know is I can't get any bigger.

It was frustrating thinking that I'm 41% body fat. Yes! I'm admitting it. Ugh! Hella ugly forreals. I use to be 27% body fat like 5 years ago. What the heall! Married life..NO I can't blame it all on that. It is mostly my fault for getting out of shape. But I know I need to get in the swing of things again.

So back to the gym first thing tomorrow at 5:00 AM SHARP!

Blogging

I swear I have so many things to blog about that I totally forget what I want to type down when I get here! Haha. Examples..

Like the other day (well actually last week haha) I went to visit Winnie-Anne and her Nathaniel (whose cheeks I want to bite cause he's so dang cuuute) and was trippin out that she lived next door to one of our old customers. When I pulled up to her house, I was thinking "I've been here before" cause I had shuttled him home from the shop a few months ago. And it was way cool visiting her, I didn't realize that we had some things in common in high school. Now I wish we should've hung out more back then. Well, there's always now especially w/ the kids.

Okay, and I still can't believe (well I can since he did them) that Tuan is not only a mechanic, but a florist too! I swear I have such a multi-talented husband. Forreals. NO complaints, just amazed. The flowers for Eileen and Jo's wedding were so pretty. I loved all the fall colors, and that it wasn't so traditional. I'll upload pics from the wedding shortly.

Talking in the car on long drives is I swear the only time Tuan and I have to catching up and talking to each other. When he's at the shop, we can't really talk on the phone. So on the way to the city to pick up the flowers last Saturday we just talked up each other. He said some nice stuff, like "I'm glad we make each other laugh, cause that keeps us happy and together.."

To be continued..

He's Sleeping!

OMG! I think I'm going to be able to really have AJ potty trained by the end of the year..and he's starting to sleep like at 10ish. Okay for most parents, or others, must be thinking.."What the hell, that's hella late!" Dude, AJ usually sleeps at like midnight or until we're both finally asleep.

But tonight, Tuan went to the gym and he laid him down w/ his toys and teddy bear. I told him to go to bed, and like within 20 mins he's asleep! I was able to go downstairs wash dishes, clean up toys, and enjoyed a glass of cran white peach drink yum! I'm just hoping he will finally start sleeping earlier then 10 so that way I have a little more time to myself.

Speaking of the gym, I so need to go tomorrow morning. I haven't gone in like 3 days and I feel fatter then I did 3 days ago. Ugh! I really need to lose this weight. I don't know what it is, but I just don't want to keil over and pass out from being over weight. Ok, so I'm not like obese or anything, but I just can't believe I let myself get this fat.

Okay, Leanna woke up gotta run...so much for time for myself. haha.

ZZzzzzZ

So my title is so how I'm feeling right now! I'm at the shop covering for Tuan, since he had a little to much to drink last night. I was sooo tired from driving home, but I'm glad we made it home safely. Thanks Glo for keeping me company while driving. Hella coffee hahaha!

It was Jo & Eileen's wedding yesterday and it was held at Scott's Garden in Walnut Creek. I really liked the place cause it wasn't to big and it was a very intimate wedding. Congrats to the both of them. I still need to upload pics from my cam. The dinner was good. I liked the salmon that was filled w/ I believe spinach. It was nice to see people we haven't seen in a while like Leah and Dennis, Anne, and Jo's Wamu folks. I'm glad I got to sit w/ Ken and Gemma at our table. Man, Kaitlyn is getting soo big. She looks like she'll be taller than AJ anyday now!

Anyways, this morning I got up like 3 times in the middle of the night to care for "Ling-Ling" of course she was hungry..she sharted..had to get a diaper change etc. Motherly duties in the mid of the night. And then this morning Tuan was sick and asked if I could cover. Ugh, I was a little bummed but I guess it's not to bad. Most places are closed so there aren't to many cars on the road. I guess that works for me. I get to blog too haha.

I'm hoping I get out of here by at least 3 or 4ish. If not, that would suck. I'm so ready for a nap.

Jo & Eileen's Wedding

Here's some pictures from Arlynn's cam..more to come... Jo & Eileen's Wedding

Beautiful Fall Flowers

Nail Shop Gossip

I went to see Rochelle yesterday to fix a broken nail..and man she had gossip! Hahaha.
Well, there's this guy who walks his dog every morning or at least everytime I've driven to the shop in the morning and/or in the afternoon. He has a golden retriever and he's a man of about early 50s if not late 40s. He's always at Starbucks drinking his coffee and reading a paper and/or sitting there with his dog.

Well, when I went to the nail shop yesterday I saw him in front of the nail shop talking to some of the nail shop workers. I was like, man he gets his nails done too! Anyways, I find out that the poor guy had just recently gotten a divorce w/ some young Vietnamese girl cause she was cheatin on him...and guy like makes BANK! Like she doesn't even have to work. Rochelle spilled the gossip...haha. She straight told me ex-wife worked at a massage place and dude walked in on her cheating. OH mun! Crazzzy! Poor guy, he seems really nice. He's said hi to me a few times. I mean, he just seems friendly.

It's a trip everytime I get my nails done or just go there. I swear, if I don't make eye contact w/ Rochelle when I first get in. Most of them ask if I want a "spa pedicure" and/or "phull set" haha. Anyone who gets their nails done knows what I mean. Haha. "You want desigghn, I do desigghn por yu" Hahaha.

Busy Busy Busy

It's going to be another hectic weekend this weekend! First off, it's Jo & Eileen's wedding (finally! haha after like 16 years or something like that) and Anthony will be doing the flowers for it so we have to go to the city to pick up the flowers that were ordered and pick up all the things needed for the arrangements. The wedding is on Sunday so we'll be up late night tomorrow night and then early Sunday morning. I'll be helping him do things somewhat, but he's the artist (uaaahhh) and he'll be doing most of the work.

So, we have to drive to the city tomorrow and back to Elk Grove..and then, drive to Walnut Creek the next day! That's a lot of driving...Well, all I know is that we'll all be pretty tired from driving and staying up.

I just finished getting all the pics together for the slide show for their wedding as far as "our" side of the fam. I guess the slide show had more pics of Lyn's side...so I pulled up some pics from the holidays and gatherings and emailed it to Anne. Man, I am soo not fond of Ofoto anymore. I ended up having to use it to send her the pics, but it just kept lagging. I swear I have hella emails telling me I shared to photos and Anne didn't get them for a while. Ugh! But she finally got it..

Well, I'll be showing the pics from the wedding next week!

Bottle Search

So I'm planning on changing Leanna's bottles to Dr Browns I've noticed she's starting to leak a lot of her milk from the bottles Lyndsee gave her. I mean, they were the cheap ones from Wal-Mart...so I should have expected it. But at the same time AJ didn't have a problem w/ any bottle when he was a baby. I'll still keep her on the Avent Bottles , but I'm planning on putting away the other bottles for now. I've been doing some research as far as reviews and prices on the bottles. I even ran into this interesting article on Avent vs Dr Browns which made me want to still keep the Avent bottles but at the same time purchase the Dr Brown bottles.

Price wise, they're almost the same depending on the size of the bottles. Dr Browns is a little more expensive on the glass bottles. Which I know I'll purchase the two pack. Well, so far since she's been using the one bottle from Dr Browns she's a little more calm and doesn't have too much gas. Well, she always seem to have gas no matter what bottle she uses..but reading that the Dr Browns bottle can help reduce it since it can cause pain for the infant..sounds good to me. Leanna's so high maintenance...I swear, although AJ had oxygen and an apnea monitor when he was home, I didn't have to be picky about what kinds of brands to get him. She's such a girl!

Cute Shoes!!!!

Aren't these the cutest things ever for little feet! I'm planning on getting some for Leanna..

Fav pics from his Bday Party

AJ's bday @ Funtastic

I was trying to figure out how to create a slideshow on picaso or whichever website to have on this but it's giving me error messages. Urrrr... so here's some pics from Lori's Camera .

I still haven't uploaded my pics from my camera.

Dress Search

So it's Jo & Eileen's wedding next weekend on Sunday the 12th. I've been looking everywhere (so it feels like) for a dress. I went to ROSS ( I love that store!) and I found two but they didn't fit right. Ugh! So had to return them, but ended up buying a purse (same exact one I saw at Macy's) and some vases for the flowers that Tuan got me.

I finally decided to look online to see if I can get an idea of what shoes to get and what kind of colored dress to get. The last week of Sept we went to Great Mall and I found a dress at Kohls and they didn't have my size. So I figured look here in Sac, and yesiree! They had my size! I even got the shoes with it! I couldn't help myself. So now, all I have to get is a pedicure before the wedding..and some jewelry.

Birthday Weekend

Hectic! That's the only word that I can use to describe this past weekend..or better yet this last week. So I was soo not ready for AJ's bday and mine. We had his party at Funtastic Fun Center, and I'm glad we had a great turn out of kids. I was so worried that I wouldn't have enough kids to come. But there was a little over 15 (which 15 is the minimum amount).

It was cool, cause the kids got to play and adults got to eat and hang out. So the party started at 4 and we were late!Ugh, late to our own party it sucked..But I'm soo glad I have great friends and family who were able to be there to help us out. Thanks Lori, Ning and Joce!!!! You guys are the best!

Well, we were late cause we still had to pick up Glo's clothes from "Ate's" house. And then Tuan forgot his keys. Then, we went to pick up pizza. But we got there at 4:15. Thanks to all the kids who played and all the adults/parents who brought them there.

After party...the usual came over and hung out. It was funny watching Leslie play pool w/ everyone cause we would cheer when it was her turn...while when it was the other players turn we were all quiet. Haha. We're just giving her a hard time for being MIA.

Well, I just realized today and I guess Tuan realized yesterday that I didn't really celebrate my bday! I didn't even have a cake. Haha. Oh well. Since AJ was born I lost my bday. Its just another year! But I guess he might be taking me out to eat later..we'll see.

Disappointed

Okay, so I've been going to the gym everyday and have decided to only have Sunday as my day off. I'm doing good so far. I can only go to the gym for max 1.5 to min 1 hour. I have to get back in the morning to cook breakfast and before Tuan leaves to go to the shop.

But, I just found out that Lisa had a gym membership which she renewed like last year. So I mentioned to her that I'll pick her up to go to the gym with me in the mornings Mon, Wed, and Fri. I was really excited for her about getting up to go. She was suppose to go with me this morning, and when Ning and Glo were still here last night she text Ning to tell me that she wasn't going to the gym anymore. She didn't even text me! Not like it mattered with the whole text thing, but I really wanted her to go and just walk or something for a half hour. I know she recently got diagnosed w/ Diabetes and it takes a while for meds to get use to...but I guess it's ultimately her decision to want to go to the gym and/or get back into shape. I mean, she's like my older sister, and I want her to be healthy and/or get healthy again. I know anyone who struggles with weight isn't easy to get back up and start working out again. But at the same time, you have to tell your mind to go for it. But, really I was disappointed about her not going. I hope she'll go with me sometime. I'll aim for Wednesday morning..but we'll see if she backs out.

Dress Code for the Gym

Last night Tuan went to the gym and he said there was some asian lady on the treadmill wearing flip flops, and a guy in jeans and a t-shirt. I mean c'mon now..if you can afford to have a gym membership you can get some shoes to work out in and/or some kind of work out gear. Heck, wear some sweats.

Oh, but this morning there was another asian lady...she was straight wearing her PJs and house slippers! OMG..she went to the restroom to take off her flip flops to change into her house slippers. But what was funny about the whole picture was she had a sports bra and a tank top on haha. Dress code for the gym should be strictly enforced, forreal!

Determined

It's now 7:00 AM and yes I am awake and having breakfast! I was up at 4:40 AM and went to the gym. Yup! I sure did! I am so sad that I let myself get out of shape this bad. I mean, I'm glad I'm not all hella sore from running which is good right. Although, I know tomorrow my arms will be hella sore!
Like today, I did free weights and I swear..when I was in decent shape way back when I was able to do 5 or 6 sets of 10. Now when I'm just getting to the 3rd or 4th set I'm all struggling. Ugh! Well, I gotta work my way back up there. I'll get there...and trust me I will be skinny again. uahahahaha. No but seriously..here are my goals with joining the gym:

1. Get back into size 5/6 jeans/pants
2. Eat healthy
3. Run a 5K by July 2009
4. Get my shirts to fit right size SMALL (yes)
5. Stay fit

I'm glad Tuan and I joined. I know we've been married for 5 years, and we gained mad weight (aww love..haha) but it's time!

Weight Loss Here I start...

So we are planning on joining 24 Hour Fit, and I am determined. (SERIOUSLY) to get back into shape and be this size again! I know I can do it. I just have to start like (yesterday) haha. I went over the 24 to ask about prices and Tuan said to sign up already. I'mma bring out a print out from online cause he was telling me $32 per month vs the online $29.99 a month. Shoot..a few bucks makes a big difference! That can be my gas money haha. Well, this pic is hella old. Its when I went to Hawaii in 2001..so I would love to be this size again. I know it's crazy since the Holidays are around the corner, but I guess it's better I start now vs. never. So weight loss here I start!!

"The Strength of a Woman"

"The Strength of a Woman"

In April, Maya Angelou was interviewed by Oprah on her 70+ birthday... She is such a simple and honest woman, with so much wisdom in her words!

Maya Angelou said the following:

'I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.'
'I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.' 'I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.'
'I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life.'
'I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.'
'I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back.'
'I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.'
'I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.'
'I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.'
'I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.'
'I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'

Busy Weekend

So this past weekend was pretty crazy! Hectic I can say...

Saturday: "Pump and Dump"
That night we rode out to the Boozefighter Clubhouse. It's been a whole year since I've been on the bike and oh mun, I was hella sore when we got home! I wasn't planning on having a bunch of drinks that night, and ended up having 4! So that night when we got home I had to pump and dump. I'm all for breastfeeding, but I can't have Leanna tipsy...haha. It was nice to get out for a little bit. I haven't really gone "out, out" yet since I had her. I hope I can do something for my bday, and/or I can't wait for Glo's bday! Hella far from now I know!
But also on Sat we went to Ron and Vicki's house to play some cards. It was just a little get together and I got to learn the basics of Texas Holdem. I told Tuan we should have a poker night haha. Like on a Friday once a month or something. I think that would be fun!

Sunday: "Berts Diner"
We had Bert's Diner on Thursday night cause Tuan wanted to eat Bert's Big one, which is a 16 ounce steak, big baked potatoe, chilli and bread. Pretty yummy! I mean, you don't expect the steak to taste like it came from a steakhouse. It's a diner, and it was still good.
We did the usual in the morn, went to church..then for breakfast had Bert's Diner. I only had pancakes. I'm trying to be really good about what to eat..although pancakes aren't the best choice. Haha..
Then we saw Joce and Oliver and had dinner there. It seems like we haven't seen them in like weeks, cause we usually see them almost every weekend. I had some good muscles (thanks Joce!) I haven't had mussels for hella long, and to get something different it was yummy! The kids got to play and fight (boys will be boys) for a little bit. And for this Halloween, Nathan and AJ will be the Autobots! I'm soo excited to take pictures of them on Halloween.

Anyways, that was my weekend. This week is going to be hectic. I have appts like everyday! Crazy! And Ning's going to be taking her driving test this Wednesday..can't wait for her to drive me everywhere. Hahaha. JK. Till next time..Hopefully I can read some chapters today!

Twilight

Okay, so far it seems a little slow for me. I know, wierd..I guess I'm anxious to find the part when it gets really good. I'm only in the beginning of the book and just starting to get to know Edward Cullen . Well, I'll be taking Glo to the movies when it's out in theatres. It better not be disappointing! Back to reading...

Tired

I've been aiming to get up real early in the morning to actually clean up and get things done. Lately I have not been able to complete this task. I figured that the morning is the best time for me to do so, since 1: AJ and Leanna are still sleeping and Tuan's still home. and 2: I'd rather start early than have to do anything late in the day.

Well, I got up early this morning, and I'm beat! I'm still tired from just having to get up and feed Leanna. I don't have the energy to move around. Although I have the energy to be online (I know, so unproductive) Haha.

Well, I know I have to start cooking breakfast soon. Already made the coffee so that starts the morning right. But then, I also have to get up and get Leanna and AJs bags ready. I have to drop Tuan off to work cause I picked him up last night. (Yawn) I really want to go back to bed, but I am determined to get something done today.

It's so sad my horoscope (which I usually never read on a daily basis)even mentioned to get things done today. It's a sign! Or just a horoscope. Anyway, hopefully today will be a productive day.

Why we chose a bassinet

There are many people who decide to get a crib versus a bassinet. We decided for Leanna to get a bassinet. When we had AJ we also did a bassinet. He was just harder to handle cause he had hella wires from his oxygen and his apnea monitor. And we knew already that he was barely going to sleep in a crip because of all his extra wirings.

So we decided to get a bassinet, and/or register for one for Leanna. I was just reading this article about cribs and how they found another recall. Of course there are also recalls on bassinets. Like this was a disturbing picture of a bassinet recall. But most of the ones I read were on cribs. Although this one had numbers of more bassinets versus cribs. All I know is we still chose a bassinet over a crib.

Well, I'm glad we decided to go with the Eddie Bauer bassinet. I read the reviews on it and looked into it before I added it to the register. Plus I loved that it was made of cherry wood! Stylish...haha. It's crazy though how children die in them. Pretty sad.

Almost finished...

So I'm almost finished reading this book. Usually I'm pretty good with finishing books within a week or maybe two. But lately it's been pretty hectic. I swear, I didn't even realize that AJ's bday party is coming up! Ugh! Well, I can't wait to finish reading this book, cause next book on my list...is the 1st saga Twilight!

I can't wait!! Glo just finished reading it and she's going to start reading New Moon. So can't wait to start turning the pages. I'm just glad I'm able to find time to read again.

Although I do need to work on the organization/planning stuff at home. I still have a "To DO" list and have crossed out 4 out of 10. I guess it's not too bad, but I would love to cross out all of it in one day. I guess there just isn't enough time in the day.

Just like yesterday, my things to complete were:

1. Put away clean laundry

2. Vaccum upstairs

3. Start organizing my closet (since AJ and Anthony's is all done)

4. Start putting away scrap book stuff

5. Start scrapbook project

6. Take out all trash

And I ended up doing only one of these things, #6 and half of #1. Ugh. I was running around all day yesterday. Went to inquire on adding Anthony's bike to insurance. Had a Dr. appt w/ Dr. Taylor. Picked up WIC stuff. Rescheduled WIC appt. Dropped off mula to ate. And then we had to pick up AJ from mom and dad's house in Vacaville! Crazy day. I swear I'm more busy now then I was when I was working!

"I am Optimus Prime"

AJ loves the Transformers. So this year he's going to be Optimus Prime. He sooo loves his costume!! He tried it on last night and he's been wanting to leave it on since then. He even asked to sleep with it! Hahaha. Kids! Well, originally I was going to make him a monkey and Leanna a banana but Tuan said to make him something he wants to be. It was going to be Bumble Bee but the custome didn't look cool. So here he is in his halloween fit. Already ready to go! It's so funny, he even started saying lines from the movie with this on!

Weekend

Fri:
Trying to get back into the swing of things. I went to the shop that day to help Tuan file things away. Tuan went fishing w/ Ning and Alvin, and Ning caught a small fish. It sucks they had to put it back in the water. I guess when you go fishing and if it's too small, you can't keep it. Reason being is if anyone who fishes keeps keeping the smaller fish then there won't be any more to reproduce. Makes sense. Then I had the kids sleep over. Mainly Katie, and Ge. It was so funny..right now they're cables down at their house and when they came over here their eyes were glued to the Disney Channel. I let them stay up a little bit, although Ge fell asleep pretty fast.

Sat:
Van and John slept over, John and Tuan went fishing. Didn't really do much but slept and read my book. Cody's getting sooo chunky. I need to post his pic on here.

Sun:
Went to church and had breakfast at Cassidys. AJ missed kinderchurch, cause we were late from looking for parking. The church is doing construction right now and its a pain to look for parking on the street. Then we went to the outlet and looked around. Walked around. Then went to San Pablo. We visited Jo and Eileen cause Tuan had to talk about her flowers. The fun part of it was that we played Rockband. We've never played it and it was pretty fun! Hmmm..Xmas gift haha.
Then that was that.

I swear our weekends are so unplanned sometimes. But it's always great to spend it with family and friends.

"Regulars"

I love having our "regulars" come back to see us at EGAC. Whether they come in and do an oil change, a trans service, and/or some other service. I feel like I don't have to explain myself w/ the baby and all and it's nice to hear them say "Welcome Back!"

Sometimes it's a drag to have to explain myself and/or get a nasty look from someone I haven't met in the past. The ones who wonder why I have a baby at the shop. I mean, I understand it takes some time for them to be like "OIC" but at the same it's just nice to see the regulars.

Well, I'm in and out of the shop starting this week. I have to set up a schedule for myself so I can get back into the swing of things. It kind of sucks, but I guess it keeps me busy (not like I need anything else to be busy) and I get to have adult conversations. I don't just talk to my 6 week or my 3 year old.

Well, I am aiming to be at the shop 4 hours a day almost everyday, maybe in exception of when AJ has school. We shall see. Scheduling here I come....

Props

AJ can't just play with his toys by themselves. He always seems to use props. Props that have nothing to do with what he's playing with. Here's an example. He's attached a ruler from the car to the truck, and says he's towing. What a smart imagination this guy has! Earlier this morning he was playing with my car charger (of course it erked me) but it was cute at the same time. He attached it to his Optimus Prime and Bumble Bee toy and said "Mommy, they're going to fight Megatron!" Then made some funky transformer noise. Way too cute. But it's just interesting how he can't just play with his bucket of cars, legos, books, etc. He's always gotta use something else.

Woke up to barking dogs

Last night, we actually slept earlier then usual. Which was great cause we both started getting a cold, and I noticed Leanna started having a runny nose. (Sucks) Then, when I was already falling asleep to the point when I was counting sheep...the dogs started hella barking. And they usually don't bark in the mid of the night. I mean, it's if someone walks by and/or those dogs next door are scratchin the fence, just something to let us know, "hey look outside the window!"

So Tuan went to check on them and realized our neighbor was outside. I peered thru the window and boy was she drunk! Not like tipsy drunk, but wasted!! She couldn't even stand straight. She was being held by some asian guy and they were all getting nasty in the front of her own home. NASTY! Go inside! And it wasn't just her, there was someone else in her car yackin! I mean, everyone has their drunken moments, but dang, all in front of your own house..go inside and don't let the dogs keep barking! And I just realized after Tuan put them in the house, she was partying and it was a Thursday...Must have been cheap drinks on a Thursday night.

Oh well, after that I couldn't sleep so I ended up reading...I finished my Sippy Cups are Not my Chardonnay to now I'm reading Marked. Maybe I'll borrow Twilight from the library :)

Funtastic

So each week, starting last week I have Angelique (aka "Ge") over for a night, usually the night before AJ has school, and she just comes over to hang out and play. Last week I took them to Funtastic, which is a play place for kids 8 and under. Yesterday, I took AJ, Angelique and Katie along w/ Leanna to Funtastic. They had soo much fun. I am already planning AJ's 4th bday there! I had to reserve the spot incase someone else would take it. The only time they had available was between the hours of 4-7 PM. I have to buy more time to make it the whole three hours but I figure it's better that way.

Well here are some pics. It's pretty cool, cause I got to catch up on my reading when I was there. And I got to plan out his bday party as far as making a guest list etc. Next week, I have to figure out what we'll be doing. If it's not hot enough, then I'll take them to a park...if it's still pretty warm outside then it's Borders day! More books yay!

Awkward..

I just dropped off AJ at school and was talking to the moms. You would think moms who have kids of the same age would somewhat be on the same level as far as shows, books, activities etc. I guess I was way wrong!

I had mentioned that I would love to have their sons be at AJ's bday party coming up on Oct 4th..and that I was going to have it at Funtastic. SO I know they probably never heard of the place cause they live on the other side of Elk Grove near 5. Which is understandable. Then we went into a conversation about food.

AJ had his project poster and on there is a picture of cereal and pizza. AJ blurted out he also likes to eat celery. I mentioned that in order for him to eat certain vegetables we have to say it's "celery" although it's not. I mentioned the Wonder Pets show and they looked at me like I was crazy. Awkward! I totally felt like I wanted to explain the whole ordeal with how they sing about having celery at the end, but I know it wasn't worth it. Maybe I should have AJ not watch Noggin anymore....haha.

Even then I mentioned we go to the book store, park etc, but both moms were like oh you have time to do that? Umm..even when I was working at Wells before, I made time to take AJ to the park and out when I was off. Isn't that what parents are suppose to do?!?! Spend quality time with their kids.

Labor Day Weekend..Late update

I didn't realize until just now that it's a short week. It didn't even hit me that it was labor day weekend last weekend. It was nice to actually have a long weekend. The only thing that sucked is the day we had people over, it wasn't that hot. The kids enjoyed the pool, but none of the adults went in.

We actually did some driving on the weekend. We visited Tita Teresa in DC so she can see Leanna. Slept over and Tuan went fishing w/ John. Oh, I was teasing him about going fishing. I told him go and get me a shark. Tell me why he comes back with three little sharks and a sting ray!! Yes! I said STING RAY! Too bad I didn't think to take pictures of it. So that's sat..

Sunday: went to Diandas and got some cake. Yum! Always a plus to get rum cake. The only thing that sucks is the location of Diandas. But Bubba parallel parked the suburban. Ohhh skills! Haha. Then visited mom and dropped her off her portion of Diandas. AJ was a little sick that day. Had a fever but is all good now. Then we went to Folsom Outlets to do like 45 min shopping. We went w/ Ate, Ning, Glo..the usual and we left EG late. I got some stuff for the kids so that's all good.

Monday: had our BBQ during lunch time. We finally got to see Ryden. He's so big now. SO not a baby anymore. And Joce and O are now officially a suburban fam. They got a Infiniti SUV. It's pretty sic lookin! Till next blog, Ling's crying...

Motherhood..

Get things done

Today I have my 6 wk postpartum appt at UCD. Man I can't even believe it's been 6 weeks! It's at 4 later on today, but I have so many things to do. I'm just now kind of taking a little break. I have to start cleaning the mid-room upstairs and put things away. And then, I have to get all the WIC stuff. Ugh! I mean, it's kind of easy to do them today cause I'm off from AJ. Although, it probably wouldn't matter because if he were here anyway I'd be doing the same thing.

I'm hella tired though. We were up last night watching No Reservations on HBO. It was playing at like 1:30 in the morn. Hella awake I know! And we totally finished it. I felt bad cause Tuan was tired this morning and had to go to work. I slept a little longer, but had to get up and start doing things or I totally wouldn't get anything done today.

Speaking of getting things done, I have to start planning AJ's 4th bday party. I think we'll just do it at Funtastic which is down the street from the shop. I have to double check w/ Tuan to see if that's what we're going to do for sure. I can't even believe he'll be 4 this year. Time does go by hella fast. I always look at him and remember when he has still born, came home from the hospital and still had oxygen. Well, to all parents: enjoy the time with your children when they're young...cause sooner or later they'll just be all grown up and then on their own.

Okay time to get off my "break".

Ofoto.com

I am soooo sad right now. Ugh. I just logged into Ofoto.com (Kodak Gallery) to look at some pics to print and ALL my albums are gone! Frickin A! I seriously don't know what happened to them. They like vanished. All my friends albums are there, but none of my old ones. I mean these are pics from like 2002...grrr.. This so ruined my evening.

Well, I guess I have to look to see if I saved most of them on a disc. If not, this really sucks. I mean, I rely on the net to save those things. I wonder if its cause I never really ordered anything from them. But I mean, like 6 years later all the pics are deleted! Gotta look at all the other pic accounts now. Snapfish, and Photobucket. If anyone has any suggestions as far as a good site that keeps pics forever please let me know.

I guess all I can rely on now is Walgreens!

ABDC

For those who don't know what ABDC is, it's America's Best Dance Crew. I didn't watch the whole first season much cause I missed most of it. Except towards the end. Go Jabba!! Hahaha..

It's a show on MTV that has crews that battle for the title of ABDC. So last night we watched a rerun of battle to the VMAs. Of course they showed season 1 and season 2 winners: Jabbawokees and Super Crew. It's so funny though cause when So Real Cru came on, my sis in law says "So Fake Cru" Hahaha. Glo! I mean, they're alright, but I don't think they should have been on the top 2 of the second season. It's all about Fanny Pak!

Well, they're going to battle it out on the Pre-show of the VMAs, so you know I'll be watching that. I just want to see Fanny Pak win! Although Kabba Modern is pretty sick! I guess you have to have seen the show to know where I'm coming from. If you haven't seen the show...season 3 is coming this January....

Pedicure Lady

Only Tom, the tool guy would send me something like this. Hahaha! Coincidence I got my nails done today!

Over due Pedi

I haven't had my nails done for two months! Oh mun, it seems like it's been forever! So today I was able to get my nails did..heyyy. Haha. Thanks Bubba! It was great cause I was actually able to relax and read my book. I felt bad cause I left my phone in the car (not purposely) but when Rochelle sat me down on the pedi massage chair, I wasn't about to go back outside in the heat!

I felt so naked without my nails..and my pedi was way over due. Now I feel pretty again. Soo gay I know. Well, at least when we go out this weekend, they won't be all ugly. Next thing before my bday (haha, it's like all two months away) is a haircut. Or maybe, highlights??!!??

Congrats Ning!

I would like to congratulate Fermina aka Ning for getting her driving permit!!! Now she'll be driving me, Anthony, Ate and her hubs everywhere haha. J/K. She took her written test today and passed. Woohoo!

Well, she had to take a pic today for her ID and she was all mad cause her hair wasn't fixed. Haha...I remember that when I had to renew my picture when I changed my last name. I was hella pregnant w/ AJ and thought I would just have to sign and show proof of name change etc..then the lady says "Walk this way to take a new picture.." It was all 8:30 in the mornin' hair all ugly and soo not cute. But I had to take it.

So as a treat we took her to Satori's. Yumm! Congrats again Ning. Now lets have you drive me to the mall :)

Midnight Olympics

So last week I was able to watch something on TV while I was up feeding Leanna. Now there's nothing on TV really anymore. It kinda sucks, I think I'm having olympic withdrawals..haha.
Now the only things to watch it seems are Roseanne, infomercials, and if I get lucky something good on HBO.

This morning I got up around 4ish and started watching the news. I think I might join the 4:30AM club on News 31 haha. They just recently started airing at 4:30 in the morning like two weeks ago. I use to hate watching them cause they weren't very news like...then Anthony started watching them and I got stuck watching them in the morning. They're ghetto and fun at times, but I guess that's what makes them interesting to watch. Oh well, it's either the news or nothing..

AJ's back to school

Today AJ went back to school! He was soo excited this morning. I'm glad I didn't wake up to late. We got home late from picking him up from grandma and grandpas house in Fairfield..so I thought I would wake up way after the alarm.

Well, he looked soo cute with his back pack and his outfit. Grandma and grandpa bought him a Dickies back pack and it's just his size! I gotta upload the pics later on tonight. When we got to school he was soo excited to see Ms. Iris. He had her as his teacher/speech therapist last year, but the biggest difference is he's now in a classroom with 4 other students. 3 boys and 1 girl.
It's pretty cool how this preps him for preschool. They're going to learn to get in line and walk into the classroom. As well as raising their hands to ask a question to having homework.

He already has homework today! And a project! Talk about putting the child (the parent haha) to work!

Template

Ugh! So I finally chose a new template! It took me forever to play around with this thing, and finally figured it out! I tried going to the website Joy suggested, but the background I wanted kept giving me an error message...oh well. Then I found www.thecutestblogontheblock.com, and it was as simple as copy and paste.

I lost some of my links which I have to go back and re-add, but I'm glad I was able to change it. Woohoo..

Hotslings

I got a hotsling for my baby shower and I love it!!! It's like the best invention ever. I wish I had one for AJ. I started using it when Leanna had her first dr appt about two weeks ago. I had to take her in to recheck her billie ruben level...and I was a little nervous of using it since I've never had one and/or used one before. Since then I've used it ever since. I love how I can use both my hands without having to worry so much about her falling out. Don't get me wrong I still get nervous but it's just cause it's so comfortable that I get a lil peranoid.

Well, if anything I'm already looking for another one to interchange with. I know (just a reason to shop) but seriously...it's well worth it! I do totally recommend Hotslings to any expectant/new mom! What's cool about it too is that if you register at Target you can get it Target! It's inexpensive and it's totally stylish! Just as they've advertise it!

Now I'm just debating on which one to get next..there's a red one from the Target.com with flowers for $39.99, but there's items on sale from Hotslings for $24.00..decisions decisions :)

Weekend...

Saturday:

I went to work back at the shop. Yup...crazy I know. But you gotta do what you gotta do..Tuan said he needed me there so, I went in thinking I would only be there for a few hours and ended up being there all day! Thanks Glo for watching the kids. I was so sleep deprived that I was seriously running on fumes! I was there but my brain was elsewhere.
Later in the evening, Tuan went to pick up a van from El Dorado Hills..and Joce and O came over. I ordered the fight and we hung out for a lil bit. Thanks Joce and O for dinner! We had mexican food, and I now have a new thing to order from the mexican restuarant across the freeway. She ordered me a super quesadilla. Yumm!!

Sunday:

Went to church. Had Hometown Buffet, since the kids wanted it. Mainly Angelique...that's like her favorite place to eat forreal! And then went home thinking I would do some things around the house and ended up just milkin it! We all (except Ate, Katie, and Belles) fell asleep! Watched the olympics and Edward Scissorhands and fell asleep! Then Jen came over to visit to see me and the baby. Thanks Jen for the blanket, bibs, and washclothes. Things I totally need! Well, not me persay but..Leanna..

Well that was my weekend. Boring I know. I'm hoping I can get things done this week, whether it's my scrapbook, house work, organizing, etc.

2 Kids

2 Kids...is all I have to say. Anyone with two kids will totally understand how tiring it is to have two kids around. I guess it won't be to bad if one is like eight and the other is a newborn. Just cause the eight year old can help you do things.

I mean, AJ helps me somewhat, but he's still learning how to do things himself. He can't exactly bottle feed his sister if I asked him to. Haha. If he did that would be scary!

Well, I am soo sleep deprived I just have to laugh it off. I have Leanna on a schedule and I've been sticking to it. I actually changed her hours a little bit. She was feeding between 2, 5, 8 and 11 round the clock. Now she's at 1, 4, 7, and 10. It's easier that she's on the new schedule cause Tuan can wake up to feed her before he goes to work and feeds her when he gets home for me to take a break.

It's weird they say to sleep when the baby sleeps, and I really can't seem to do that. I mean if I'm to the point where I'm going to pass out then I'll take a nap when they're both sleeping. But if I know I can get some things done around the house whether it's to take a shower, eat or pick up some toys I'll do it.

In addition, these kids have to be taken everywhere with me. I mean it is my responsibility. But I can't wait to just be able to go and get a pedicure without the two kids. I know that sounds selfish, but hey it's something I have to look forward to. (Hopefully by this weekend)
Sigh. The joys of motherhood...

Unneccessary Lady!

OMG! Yesterday we (the kids and I) went to Target to return the camera and I had to get pull ups for AJ cause he ran out. I had already taken them out earlier in the day b/c of Leanna's Dr appt @ the urgent care.

Anyways, we were in the electronics section and some random customer (she's pute) straight said a smart remark to me when AJ started picking up the camera. Tuan had just called me to see where we were I picked up the phone and she said "Why are you letting him play with that?" She was referring to the cameras. I looked at her like "excuse me!" So she was all bitchin that I let AJ touch the display cameras, and she had a smart ass remark saying that "what if I want to purchase one of those" I told her ass to mind her own business. It was soo totally random.
I was so pissed off that my back started to hurt! Ugh! Until now I seriously couldn't believe she straight had something to say. It's not like AJ took the camera and started banging on it, and let alone she doesn't even know me!!

I told Tuan the story and he told me I should have said "Lady, that's why it's a display" and to have asked her "are you going to buy a display camera?" But I was so pissed cause I had just answered the phone, he even heard me talking to her that I just said whatever!

Anyways, STUPID LADY! I hope I never see her in my shop! (Hella wrong, I know) But some people! Okay back to reality...

I gotta go back today around 1ish to get Leanna rechecked and we'll kind of have to keep doing that if her level keeps going up. I hope it doesn't so she won't have to go back to the hospital. Well, it's feeding time. Gotta run!

Polaroid Review

DO NOT purchase a Polaroid digital camera! Well we went to Target yesterday to get her play pen/bassinet and Tuan said we should just look at the cameras and if it's a good price then we'll get one.

We saw a Polaroid which was cheaper, 8.0 megapix, and it was a dark cherry color. Totally didn't do a review on it and didn't look to think it up, so we ended up buying it. We needed a camera for the shop so we figured okay we'll use the broken one and keep the new one. Hey that works for me!

So we started messing around with it when we took pictures of Leanna at the hospital, and ugh, complaints:
Ugly screen
Ugly load to the lap top
And it just isn't very user friendly.

We saw the Nikon there and even a Sony one. They were both the same price and they looked different. The sony was pink and the Nikon was the burgundy color and it was the model I wanted. So of course, we're trying to be cheap and get the Polaroid. BAD decision. So I'm going to return it today like in an hour. I should have figured, but didn't think that it would be that bad! Oh well, like I said before you get what you pay for sometimes.

Off the bilie lights and doing well..

Songs for my kids...

When AJ was born, I sang him a song at the hospital and made a copy of the lyrics and put it by his bedside. It was "For you I will" by Monica. I figured since I had a song for him, it would be nice to also have one for Leanna. I found one "These are the moments", by Sara Evans. So these are the two songs I've dedicated to my children. I love the meaning of both songs.

When AJ was in the NICU that song by Monica totally made sense to me for him. I know at the time he was weak, and just did what he could do in order to survive. And now he's three and all over the place. He is truly my miracle on my birthday.

Leanna, although she's still in the NICU..I can see her, she wakes up and is alert. I cherish all the moments I have visiting her and just being able to watch her sleep and make silly faces. I soo cannot wait until she's home to be able to dress her, lay her down and feed her.

Andrew John and Leanna Rae, you two are one of the best things that have entered in my life. I love you both..

For You I will-Monica

When you're feeling lost in the night
When you feel your world just ain't right
Call on me, I will be waiting
Count on me, I will be there
Anytime the times get too tough
Anytime your best ain't enough
I'll be the one to make it better
I'll be there to protect you, see you through
I'll be there, and there is nothing, I won't do

(Chorus)
I will cross the ocean for you
I will go and bring you the moon
I will be your hero, your strength, anything you need
I will be the sun in your sky
I will light your way for all time, promise you
For you I will, yeah, yeah

I will shield your heart from the rain
I won't let no harm come your way
Oh, these arms will be your shelter
No, these arms won't let you down
If there is a mountain to move
I will move that mountain for you

I'm here for you, I'm here forever
I will be your fortress tall and strong
I will keep you safe, I'll stand beside you right or wrong

Repeat Chorus

For you I will
Lay my life on the line, for you I will fight, oh
For you I will die, with every breath, with all my soul
I'll give my word, I'll give it all
Put your faith in me, and I'll do anything...oh

Repeat Chorus

I will, I will, I will...ohhhhhhhh
Repeat Chorus

These are the moments-Sara Evans

Lyin here with you
Listenin to the rain
Smilin just to see
A smile upon your face

These are the moments
I thank God that I'm alive
These are the moments
I'll remember all my lilfe
I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more

Lookin in your eyes
Seein all I need
Everything you are
Is everything in me

These are the moments
I know heaven must exist
These are the moments
I know all I need is this
I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more

I could not ask for more then this time together
I could not ask for more then this time with you
Every prayer has been answered
Every dream has come true
Yeah, right here in this moment
Here with you, here with me

These are the moments
I thank God that I'm alive
These are the moments
I'll remember all my life
I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more

I could not ask for more then this time together
I could not ask for more then this time with you
Every prayer has been answered
Every dream has come true
Yeah,right here in this moment
Is right where I'm meant to be
Here with you, here with me

Photo Therapy

The only thing holding Leanna in the hospital is her bilirubin level. She's still getting photo therapy for her jaundice which was caused by the antibodies. She's breathing room air. Her O2 saturations have been great. They even took off her pulse oximeter. She's feeding really well. Her last feeding which was at 8:00 PM prior to us visiting her she ate a little over one whole ounce woohoo! I don't think she'll be home this weekend, but you never know. I'm guessing my Wednesday next week. Unless she pulls a miracle on me.

Here's some more pictures....well it'll be above when you see them.

Deciding on the next camera

I have been wanting to get a new camera since ours is all ugly. I love our camera but the battery cover broke. So there's time when I'm all taking a picture and the battery falls out. Ghetto! I'm still aiming to get a Nikon just gotta decide on the model and the amount of mega pixels. I still want a digital SLR but it's not my main priority. So here's the two I've been debating on..

Nikon Coolpix S210 8.1-Megapixel Digital Camera - Black

This ones a little cheaper. It's 179.99 and I think it'll do its job. So I might aim towards this b/c of price. But the one I currently have is also 8.0 megapix so I gotta see if I want to do more with my camera..

Nikon Coolpix S550 10-Megapixel Digital Camera - Plum

This one costs a little more. $229.99. It's megapix is higher. So that means I can make my photos larger. Something I like to have an option of doing. So I gotta ask Bubba if this will be better for us to use.

Decisions. Decisions.

Medela Review

So I've been pumping because I really want to be able to breast feed as long as possible. It'll save money, and plus it's better for Leanna to get breast milk.

Anyways, I got home yesterday and used my old pump. I remember it worked so much better before. It wasn't very expensive if I remember right. I think Tuan even remembers it was like $64. It did it's job then, but it totally didn't do its job when I got home. Ugh, I was soo disappointed cause anyone whose breast fed before knows it hurts!! (I won't go into any further detail) So I was looking online last night...and made the decision to get the Medela Pump from Target.

It's pretty expensive, but I was using one at the hospital and I figure for it's price it should be worth it. I mean, I calculated the amount of formula I would be buying and it would be 11 cans of Similac Advance from Target. And I know formula goes by quick! I remember having to buy like 2 a week for AJ. So in 5 months the pump will pay for itself. Actually, maybe even before 5 months considering I should be pumping every 3 hours.

I went to Target this morning and picked up the Medela Tote. And man let me tell you! What a big difference! Talk about last night I was only able to get about an ounce to an ounce and a half, versus this morning when I pump using the medela within 15 minutes..I got a total of 5 ounces! Hella milk!

So any new moms/soon to be moms I totally recommend this pump! It's pricy but well worth it! I love my medela pump.

I'm home

So I'm finally home. I got discharged yesterday @ 7:40 PM. I could have gone home earlier but I asked if it was okay that I get to hang around until after 7:00 PM since I didn't have any means of transportation. So yesterday Jason and Ay-Ay came to visit me and Leanna. It was great to see them. Thanks guys for visiting!! Ay Ay was the first one to hold her in regards to our family/friends.

Yesterday, Leanna had no tube down her nose and we got to take our first family picture (which is shown below). She's been doing really well. I hope she can come home this weekend. Man, I'm sooo excited and nervous all at the same time. I can't wait till she's here at home with me and AJ.

I called to check up on her and got a really good update. She moved from the Koala room to the Bear room. Which is a good sign! She did well on her feedings last night @ 5:00 AM and this morning. She took all 4o mLs and bottle fed. Woohoo! Good girl! So now she's getting photo therapy, and that's pretty much all we are waiting on. Completing photo therapy and then she'll be able to go home.

Our very first Family Picture...

More of Leanna Rae

No more nasal canula! Woo hoo! Hope she comes home soon....

Three Steps forward, One Step back

So I woke up at like 4:40 today trying to make it upstairs before her next feeding. I got there in time, but was told that when Leanna tried to be bottle fed at 2 AM she desatted. Meaning her o2 saturations dropped and she's not taking being bottle fed very well. Ugh!

I should have expected it, but man it sucks when it actually happens. So I know for sure she isn't coming home with me today. I'm being discharged today. I asked to go home after 7 this evening because I don't have any other way of transportation other then Anthony. I am hoping she comes home this weekend, so we shall see. I'll find out more after 7 this morning regarding her billie blanket, and status and decisions on what the doctors will make regarding bringing her home and what not.

I just hope she's not here for very long. I'm really excited to bring her home, I know the time will come. I just wasn't expecting it the second time around...I do have to prepare things at home for her. The house, her room, her bed, and her set up at home. I am hoping to get her play pen with the bassinet by this weekend if incase she comes home this weekend. I also have to get the new camera hopefully by this weekend, cause I know they'll be pictures galore!

I'll be praying for her..I know she'll do just fine. We love you Leanna..come home soon...

Welcoming Leanna Rae with love

Anthony, Lanie & big brother AJ welcome Leanna Rae with love

July 22nd 2008 @ 12:48 AM

5 Lbs 10 Oz 18 inches

Progress

So I'm wide awake right now, still in the hospital, just finished the whole pumping deal, took pain meds and I should be sleeping..but nope..I'm just excited.

At 11 PM I went up to see her in the NICU to try to breastfeed, and got some progress. But the good thing is when I walked in the nurse talked to me and told me she is now breathing room air! Woohoo! She was on 1 liter of oxygen earlier today and she's been slowly weeined off, and now she's breathing normal...except she's still being monitored for her respiratory. And she's still got her bielly blanket..for the antibodies deal.

But I got to hold her for a whole hour and her O2 stats were good, her HR was good, and her RR was good. So if everything goes well, she may go home this weekend. I'll be crossing my fingers and praying. I'mma wake up in a few hours to check on her, so we'll see how she does these next few hours.

I know she probably won't be able to go home with me tomorrow (although if she did that would be great!!) But as long as she comes home soon. I mean, it would nice even if she didn't come home with me so I can prepare for things at home.

I would like to thank those who have greeted us, came to visit us, and helped us in any way these past few days. Thanks Ning and Glo for taking care of AJ from my dr appt on Monday and until we delivered. Mom for watching him the following day. Joanne for getting me a sandwich for lunch/dinner. Thanks for all the love and support. We'll see you guys all soon, and next time it'll be with our new addition.

Bubba for making sure I didn't get the epidural, and for being there as much as you can with the whole shop having to function. Thank you for doing your best in staying awake and spending the amount of time with me at the hospital and with Leanna. I'm glad we get to share this experience together..what a joyous time in our life. I love you.

Well, I'll keep the update going..till next time. G-nite!

New Favorite Snack

So after birth last night, or better yet early this morning, I was given honey graham crackers and peanut butter. Yum! It's my new favorite snack. It's pretty good...

I think that will be my new favorite snack. Thing is I gotta buy the little packets of peanut butter from costco, haha. I've been snacking on it since yesterday. I'm snacking on it right now. Oh yea, here are some pics..

Horoscope

She's a Cancer just like her dad..Cancer is from June 21 to July 22..so I was looking to see what her horoscope would be and it's just the same as her dad! Cool! I so need to figure out her name...forreal!

Baby Girl

So baby Girl Luchico is finally here! She was born today, Tuesday early morning @ 12:48 AM, weighing in at 5 Lbs 10 ounces. And it was natural delivery!!

I can't even believe I'm all online blogging about this. Well, here's some brief details. I did not have an epidural. Yup yup!! I did it! I'm so proud of myself, that it's shocking. I did get something to kick off the edge called ferrenal (I don't think I spelled that right.) It made me feel woopy and loopy. But I pushed her out! I was in active to transitional labor for 2 hours. I pushed for 30 minutes and then she's here!

They broke my water at 10, contractions were kickin my ass that I was delierious, then came the pushing. Craziness! Okay time to go to bed.

She's in the NICU though because of the whole antibodies deal, and they need to monitor here. She has a pap to help her breath cause she just needs a little help with the breathing..and she has a billy blanket to help with her antibodies. Other than that she looks good. Anthony said she looks like me. But I can't really tell. I'll post pictures soon.

Tuan's 29th Bday Pics

Target

I love and hate Target all at the same time! So I went the other day to seriously just buy AJ's pull ups and wipes. Tell me why his wipes went to like $150.00!! OMG!
I mean I seriously didn't even go shopping. (Well, technically...)

I ended up getting a basket for the baby's diapers. I didn't get any bottles for our baby shower so I ended up getting some bottles and a bottle cleaner of course. I bought some sensitive wipes cause they were on sale. And then, I of course got some baby Johnson's shampoo cause it was on sale! I also end up buying a freagin purse and wallet OMG that was on sale! Totally bad I know. And I seriously should have just went to the diaper and wipes and section and got what I needed to get but nope. It never seems to happen that way.

I'm just glad the other day Anthony and I finally got her car seat! I had to get the one that matched and fit with the double stroller. Thanks to everyone who gave us a gift card! It was well worth it! The only thing left for me to buy is the play pen for downstairs. Maybe in two weeks. We shall see.

Mapquest @ 4:27 AM

I know it's totally crazy that I'm awake right now. Bubba went fishing w/ John and Jeremy and I just talked to him to remind him something. Well, they're all the way on highway 4 in Contra Costa County! Dang! Determined to get some fish tonight! So he wanted me to look up to make sure they were going the right direction.

All I know is tomorrow they'll be sleeping in or pretty much sleeping all day long. Oh well, at least I know we won't be going anywhere. I know we can't really go far for the next few weeks. Considering I may go into labor before my scheduled enduction.
I want to start working on my scrapbook (as crazy as that sounds this early in the morning) But, I'm too lazy right now and I don't know if I'm tired or awake. I had Glo make me some ice coffee earlier (BAD, I know).

So..now I'm all on blog chatting away. Hahaha. Oh mun, being pregnant at the last trimester.

Massage Envy here we come!

We've been waiting to get our massage for like almost three weeks! I finally scheduled one for yesterday @ 8:00 PM.

I know my body has been pretty tense! What sucks though is certain parts of the body can't be massaged a certain way because it can trigger labor. Ugh. Well, we did an hour and a half. Anthony liked Kwame (whose like hella pregnant) because she massaged the areas where he had knots and actually got rid of them. He even said he felt bad cause she's putting pressure on him and she's pregnant.

I had Erica, whom I had last time. I like her. I just wish I could get a deep tissue, but I can't. So she told me there's 5 sensitive spots that can trigger labor. Two points by my shoulder, one behind my knee, the web of between my thumb and pointer finger, and around my ankle. What sucks is the two points around my neck were hella hurting. Ugh! Well, I'll definetly be back when this baby comes out! I may try a new therapist just to see. But so far I've had Erica cause she's certified in prenatal.

Well, I guess it's pretty cool we signed up for it, cause it's something to look forward to each month.

Scheduled Delivery

So I really have two more weeks until her arrival. I had my dr appt yesterday and was told I will have to be induced at exactly 37 weeks. (Woohoo) I'm nervous and excited all at the same time. I have to be induced due to my high red blood antibodies, so if I go full term she can become still born..which of course we don't want.

So next week, I have tests to take from Monday through Thursday along with a final ultrasound. Then I'll find out for sure when she'll be here. Anthony wants me to schedule it on a Friday hahaha, after six. I guess it won't hurt to ask. I can use a few days of recooperating. Well, I'll be up to date for the final day...

Countdown

So I have approximately two more weeks until her arrival. Ugh! It seems like forever. No I shouldn't say that. Well, all I know is I need to get her car seat and get my bag ready to be packed up. I have to do it soon, cause I'm just getting to the point where I'm restless.

Complaints:
It's soo hard to get up in the morning. I'm literally rolling off the bed.
I'm more tired in the morning then I was my first trimester.
I seem to have gotten a cold and now it won't go away.
I lose my balance every now and then.
It's hard to sleep at night.

(Sigh)What more can I say!

106+ degree weather + overwhelming paper work=HEADACHE

I am soooooooo HOT! HOT doesn't even describe it anymore. I'm starting to get really exhausted. This weather is just now starting to get to me. What sucks about it is the smoke from the foothills. I guess the heat isn't too bad, but man the air is soo unhealthy.

So the shop. There's so much work and paperwork that I don't know what to do anymore. I'm so busy it's crazy. I know I shouldn't complain, and really I'm not. But it's just overwhelming and challenging all at the same time. I soo am ready for the pool again with a virgin pina colada.
We jumped in the pool yesterday and boy was it nice and warm.

Well, I'm ready for a massage. I wish we could do it this weekend, but we'll be having the party. Hopefully next weekend. Till next time...

Baby Names

We still haven't completly decided on a name for her yet. But this is an interesting article I came across, Baby Names

So we've thought of Leanna Rae and/or Lauren Paige. I guess I just have to see her when she's here!

Long Weekend

It was nice to have a long weekend. We were open for a little bit on the 4th, but that's alright. We were able to ship out some cars and even take a car in. So on the 4th, we just had the norm come over. Lisa and them, Joce & Oliver and the boys, and Julio (Rob's bro) even came over.
So it was nice to swim for a little bit. We pretty much just hung out in the pool. Waited until it got dark, which seemed like eternity..then did fireworks outside.

I was actually able to use my maternity bathing suit! Haha. I thought I bought it for nothing, but I actually got to wear it in the pool. I felt sooo light in the water. Man it felt good to swim. Especially in this heat.
It's wierd, on the 4th it wasn't that hot. I mean it was like in the high 80s I think it even hit 90 something..but it wasn't like last year where it was 102!

Then we actually got to sleep in on Saturday! Yup, haven't done that in a while. We sooo milked it until it was time to go to the baby shower. We went out to Rancho for Winnie & Joey's baby shower. Man I haven't seen them in like hella long! Well, Winnie Anne at least. And guess who I got to see. Angelito (Jojo)!! I haven't seen him in like over 5 years! So went to the baby shower, and just did a little cleaning. That was Saturday.

Sunday..the plan was to go see John, Vanessa and Cody in the city. We totally forgot it was a long weekend. We left here at 10:30 and got to Vacaville at quarter till noon! Hella traffic. Everyone was trying to go home to beat the traffic..so we ended up visiting mom at the outlet. We then went home, and sat in the pool and rested again! I guess after having a really rough and busy week, to actually relax was really nice!

Well, we'll be having one more party before the baby comes. Tuan's bday this weekend! Woohoo!

Massage Envy

I am sooo ready for our appointment which I need to make for our massage! Tuan wanted me to schedule it today, to just get the massage and then come back home to sleep! haha.. Hella lazy!
Well, we haven't had a long weekend to actually be off in a while. And lately it's been so busy that a massage sounds really good right now.

I need to call and make our appointment soon. The last time we went, it was pretty worth it. We went after work on a Friday knowing we'd be closed the next day. And we knocked out. It was pretty cool getting a prenatal massage. I know I need one more before I pop!

Ten Best Places to Live

So I was reading my email this morning and ran into this article on Yahoo. I would have never figured these places:

Best Places To Live

California had two places on the list. Pretty interesting...And the article talks about these places are the best places to raise a family. Hmm..maybe we'll move to Hawaii..hahaha.

Driving all day

I'm am sooo freakin tired! Forreal! I had to drive to downtown Sac, pick up a tranny, come back to the shop...then go back towards downtown to go to my dr. appt, come back, go to the bank, come back, and I'm still here!

I was hoping AJ would already be here so I can go straight home, but I gotta pick him up at Lisas house. MORE DRIVING!!! Ugh!

Pools Ready!

I was a tad bit worried about the pool not being ready for this weekend, and most especially for next weekend for Tuan's bday party. But it's pretty much ready. The only thing is our fountain stopped working. Ugh! It kinda sucks, but I think there's a clog somewhere which we can't seem to locate. I think it's Tuan's (or we know) it's his bracelet that fell in the pool.

I'm excited too, cause I seriously bought a maternity bathing suit. I want to wear it at least twice. So there's this weekend and then next! Time to go swimming!