Cabo 2013

Cabo sure was fun this year!  We had not been in 2 years and couldn't wait to get away from the daily grind for a few days of R&R.  This year we tried to lay low and only do a few of our favorite things, plus try one new one! We lucked out at the "timeshare" wars and got a deal on the swimming with dolphins package.  Trevor was excited, then nervous, then excited again!  We each got a special turn with Andee the Dolphin and now I can cross that off the "bucket list."

Each year we always take a sunset cruise to view the arch and see how much the beach scape has changed over the years.  This year the sand was completely under the arch - which was so weird to envision - as none of our other 4 or 5 trips to Cabo had this!  We HAD to explore under the arch!  I was in heaven!  I wish I had awesome stories to share but thankfully it was a pretty calm and relaxing trip.  I'll post the highlights below.....

* Pirate Cruise - always a MUST do!  Complete with pirate brawls, music, drinks, and meeting some ladies from Midland/Odessa area!
* Cabo Escape Cruise - Lots of dancing, "shots" (of Shirley temples), and a beautiful sunset. Oh we learned the Wobble here!
* Beach time - Medano Beach, Lovers beach - Trevor even snorkeled with Daddy! and eating at the Office! YumYum
* Pool time - splashes, happy hour, meeting new people (Chicago, Dallas, and even Dripping Springs!), winning a HUGE drink at Lazy Trivia, and lots of relaxing!
* Submarine tour - it's a cute yellow "submarine" where Trevor learned even more about fish and we got to hear more about the history of Cabo!  Always a favorite with us!

Next year - we'd love for another couple to join us!  So look at your calendar and see if you can fit in a week of fun June 8th - 16th!  We found out Austin finally has direct flights and they are pretty cheap! Let's hope they stay that way! :)

5 Greatest Accomplishments -- (Things my Kid should know series)

Not sure why I chose this one to talk about next....maybe I wanted to focus on some positives in my life; or maybe I am trying to psyche myself up for something?!?! All I know is that it is hard sometimes to talk about yourself in a positive light; like I'm gloating or something.  It just feels odd.  I've never been one to brag or shout from the rooftops -- "Look at me!"

I dream that in writing my 5 greatest accomplishments they would entail accomplishing world hunger, a Nobel Peace Prize or working for a fabulous non-profit somewhere in another country but it doesn't.  And that's ok. I still have a lot of life to live - so who knows I might accomplish one of those one day......

1) My son - he tops the list for sure.  We waited years to have him, trying to find the "right time" for us.  He was definitely a gift and accomplishment.

2) Graduating College -- I am so glad that I had the backing of a proper education in my family, as it pushed me to get higher education -- not that I didn't ever see myself not doing it, just that college is a feat in itself.

3) Moving out so young -- it may have broken my parent's hearts at the time, but this was a very bold move for me.  I left home at age 19 to live with my "boyfriend" while in school.  Well this boyfriend became my husband (of 11 years) and I think it really helped us to live together.  I was so scared to have that talk with my parents but I did it.  I needed to do it for me and for our relationship.

4) Taking a chance on my passions - This includes stepping out of my shell with Photography and Training.  It took some coaching and throwing myself out there to find they are both things I just LOVE doing and have gotten better and better at.  Maybe one day they will be ONLY what I do for a living, but for right now I am satisfied with them being just a nugget of my life.

5) Hopefully I am will achieve this last accomplishment..... I've been struggling with weight loss for awhile, but I must focus on the better side of things since this hasn't been the most successful feeling lately.  I am proud to say that I truly have focused more on better eating and getting moving so much more this past year.  Though the scale may not show this "success" I know within me - this is great!  Maybe one day my outside will look like I dream - but for now I focus on building the foundation for a healthier lifestyle.

Trevor turned 6!

A little late -- but here's the nitty gritty details of Trevor's 6th birthday party! 

His new love is Skylanders Giants.  It's a game you play on a game system, like his Wii, where you collect different characters (who have different powers) and try to save the Skylander Nation.  Any who -- he had a blast inviting his friends over for some water gun fights, munchies and cupcakes!  In my "themed" nature even the food went along with the theme representing elements of the game itself. 

It was a hot day but not as hot has it had been this summer so it was a nice relief for those who did not get wet!  The next day he woke up to a decorated room and balloons all over the floor, plus some presents form Mom and Dad.  Then he went fishing with Papa and Daddy. He had fun but accidentally threw his pole into the lake! :(

Thanks to those who came - Trevor really had a blast!  I can't believe he's 6 already!

My Guardian Angel

I Live On - Unknown

Don't cry for me in sadness; don't weep for me in sorrow,
For I will be beside you, as sure as comes tomorrow.
My body has gone but my spirit lives on, as does my love for you.
Just as in life. I'll watch over you, I always will be true.
My blood lives on in my children, how I've watched them grow up with pride.
I'll live on within them, always by their side.
I know my jokes weren't always funny and jobs weren't always done.
Just try and always remember the good times, the days when we had fun.
Reach out if you need me, for I will always be near.
Just talk to me, as if I am there, I promise I will hear.
For I'll live on, with in your mind, we'll never be apart,
As long as you keep my memory, deep within your heart.
So lift up your hearts, don't be sad, my spirit hasn't gone.
While your still there, so am I, I really will live on

I heard this the other day on one of our favorite shows -- The Young and the Restless :)  They read it at Katherine Chancellor's memorial (for those who don't follow: the lady who played this character - Jeanne Cooper passed away recently and they finally "killed" the character off as well.)  They spoke about her being so iconic and unforgettable; so stubborn and outspoken; so loved and cherished. I think she is a lot like my Grandma.

It will be 5 years in a few days.  5 years since I lost someone so dear to my heart. Someone who always stood by me.  She was the one I knew was always "on my side."  I miss her back scratches as I leaned up against her rocker and we watched Wheel of Fortune; I miss her smile when I told her something funny; I miss her ..... Some days I cry just watching a commercial or listening to a song.  Some days I just look at Trevor and tear up because he doesn't get to experience her in person.  I try to tell him about her, how much she loved him, how she watches him from heaven.

I know that she is watching down; our own guardian angel, but ...... some days are just sad.  Some days I just miss her. So I read this poem, to help remind me that she is always right there - whenever I need her.

20 Random Facts About Me!

This is number 1 on the list of things to tell my child!  I will have done 3 of the 30 at the end of this..... so be sure to check out 10 people who influenced me and 5 Passions I Have in the previous posts.

20. I am terrified of snakes, dentist and tornadoes.
19. I tend to have VIVID dreams, especially of floating in the air or going to the bathroom (lol - I have never peed my bed though!)
18. I only recently (last 5 years) started eating Avocado and now I am OBSESSED!
17. I can pick out the smallest raw onion sliver in a piece of food.
16. I danced ballet, tap and/or jazz for over 10 years and was in a local "troupe" for a year. I took en pointe for one year and still have my shoes!
15. I want to one day "back pack" thru Europe and RV across America!
14. I close my eyes during horror or bone breaking parts of a movie - but secretly peek as well.
13. I have NEVER been and probably never will be fashion trendy.
12. I have only had 3 boyfriends and one became my hubby! ;)
11. I started Kindergarten when I was 4 years old and college at 17.
10. I have a weird sensory thing about lotions on my hands (well anything greasy on my hands).
9. My ears, cheeks, neck --- everywhere --- turns red when I am nervous, anxious or tipsy!
8. I have a tender nose....therefore I hate overwhelming smells, especially lotions, candles or perfumes!
7. I HAVE to wear sunglasses all the time outside and use the sunvisor at night to drive -- glare!
6. I was in Colorguard for 3 years in high school and was a co-assistant captain!  It was the most fun I had in HS.
5. I still talk to my best friend from Elementary school!  (Hi Leslie!!!)
4. I am originally from Houston, TX.
3. I collect spoons from place I have visited and places my family/friends have gone. 
2. I have a sick obsession with reality TV - including Teen Mom/Kardashians/SYTCD/DWTS/AI and MORE!!!!
1. I used to want to be a home architect and I still get giddy visiting model homes or home being built/renovated.

10 people who have influenced me.....

Where do I even begin....
My Parents and Sisters- From them I am who I am.  My Dad instilled a deep value of education, respect and honor.  I have gained a whole different culture from him and cherish that.  My Mom has always done everything for her children.  She was the home room mom, the cake baking mom and carpooling mom.  She was and is a great mother. I hope I can be all this for my son too!  My sisters are in a way so very different from me.....  I love them with all my heart and try to always "set the example" (being the oldest!)  Sometimes I falter but I think they are ok with that!  They each have a dynamic personality that I admire!

My Hubby - He is my polar opposite and it works for us!  He has opened my eyes and heart to things I never would have experienced.  He loves me for me - no matter my size.  His impatience and stubbornness has strengthened mine and he has always supported me in any venture I choose.  He is truly my other half.

Mrs. Hupp (and other fabulous teachers) - She was my Kindergarten teacher and I believe is why I love school, teaching and kids.  I think because I had such a fabulous kinder year with her is why I wanted to be a teacher for others.  Her warm smile is still a vivid memory in my head!

My Best Friend (Angela) - My mom used to think she wasn't the best influence on me, but she really was a great one!  Yes we got into trouble in our teen years together, but her strength and passion is what I admire about her.  When I think I'm not strong enough I think about her and all she has done as a single mother and I don't feel weak.  She has this way of lifting me up even when she isn't around! And though months may go by where we don't speak, you'd never know it when we finally get together!

My Grandma - She was a strong, independent and vocal woman!  She was my rock when I felt alone.  I miss her greatly but her spirit still influences me to know I am never alone.  She grew up in such a large family and I think that influenced how I viewed family and how I cherish it (summer family reunions, being together at holidays, etc....)  I miss her each day!

Amanda - I only meet her 7 years ago, but she has shaped me a lot in those 7 years.  Her passion for early education and children with special needs re-ignited my love for teaching.  Her spunk, vocal mind and love for life gave me laughs and experiences I would have never have experienced.  Her belief in me and my abilities has always inspired me to do more and seek better for young children.  I cannot wait to see her as a mom!  She is going to be fantastic!

My girls - You know who you are!  They are my sounding board, my shoulder, my friends!  Each one has touched me in some way, shape or form and that's why they continue to be a part of my life each day.  They each have their own strength, passion and/or quality that I admire and learn from.  Every person needs true friends - those you've grown up with or perhaps just met a few years ago!  They help you laugh, de-stress and understand what you're going thru without saying more than a word!

Old Bosses - If I am honest enough with myself I can admit that these ladies have influenced me and my life.  They showed me who I didn't want to be as a leader, but also made me stronger in my leadership, pushing me to do more.  They helped me realize that I cannot please everyone, but only do what I know is my best.  It was hard to interact with them at times and this helped me in dealing with my fear of confrontation. 

Kathy -- she is my soul sista!  She has brought out so much in me and influenced me in ways I cannot describe.  Her passion and zest for life and love is awe-inspiring!  I love her positivity and I truly think I became more of an opportunist view thinker because of her.  She grabs life and people with open arms and has never met a stranger!  Though sometimes I know life is hard for her -- she still puts on a smile and charges forward. 

My son -- wow has he influenced me.  He has shown me sides I didn't know I had in me.  He has brought a love that one can never accurately describe.  Each day he makes me laugh, smile and cry (a good kind!) because he is such a beautiful person inside and out.  I hope that I can help shape him into  the best person he can be..... and right now he's pretty darn awesome!!!

Thank you to each of these people for helping shape, mold, guide and influence me, my outlook and my passions. 

Things about me --- for my child

so I have a new thing I want to try (again another "steal" from someone's blog I read!) - along with my photos quotes (which kind of fell off the map), the Letters to my Son, and just regular blogging!

The idea is 30 things in 30 days for your children to one day read, but that ain't going to happen like that. So let's just try to do the 30 in the year!!! lol  So what should I start with?!?!?!?

THE LIST:

1.  List 20 random facts about yourself.
2. Describe 3 fears you have and explain how they became fears.
 3. Describe your relationship with your spouse.
4. List 10 things you would tell your 16 year-old self, if you could.
5. What are the 5 things that make you most happy right now?
6. If you could have three wishes, what would you wish for?
7. What is your dream job, and why?
8. What are 5 passions you have?
9. List 10 people who have influenced you and describe how.
10. Describe your most embarrassing moment.
11. Describe 10 pet peeves you have.
12. Describe a typical day in your current life.
13. What’s the hardest part of growing up?
14. Describe 5 and weaknesses strengths you have.
15. Describe when you knew your spouse was the one or how I fell in love.
16. What are your 5 greatest accomplishments?
17. What is the thing you most wish you were great at?
18. What do you think your spouse loves most about you?
19. How did you feel the moment you became a parent?
20. Describe 3 significant memories from your childhood.
21. Describe your relationship with your parents.
22. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 15 years?
23. What’s your favorite holiday and why?
24. What’s your favorite and least favorite thing about parenthood?
25. If you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be and what would you eat?
26. What popular notion do you think the world has most wrong?
27. What is your favorite part of your body and why?
28. What’s your favorite quality in your spouse?
29. What are your hopes and dreams for your prosperity?
30. List 10 things you would hope to be remembered for.



#8 5 Passions I have........
Well my first passion is children.  It always has been and always will be.  From a young age I knew I wanted to be a teacher - in fact Kindergarten was the start.  I had the BEST teacher, Mrs. Hupp.  I can vividly remember my first day of school and her warm nature and sweet smile as she presented me with my apple name tag.  From then on I knew one day I wanted to be that for other children.  I babysat at the age of like 12 for a neighbor and it went from there.  My dad gave me some flack for a few years about getting a "real teaching job" but in my heart I knew what I was doing mattered and made my heart fill with joy.  I wish that for anyone in their life -- do what gives you joy!
2) Photography -- As long as I can remember I had a camera in my hand. I remember having those "flash card" things on top of my camera.  You got like 5 flashes out of them.  I thought I was so cool.  I would go through film like crazy and was stubborn to finally give into the "digital world."  There was always something about capturing moments in photos.  I've always been nostalgic - not quite sure why , but I love things with history and meaning.  So I think that's why I gravitate to a beautiful photo.....it tells a story.   I love OLD photographs!  I didn't really nurture my love until recently when a friend brought it out in me.
#3 passion --- Dance.  I love to dance. I love music.  There's something about expressing yourself through movement.  When I was younger I did ballet and jazz and tap.  I loved ballet the best.... the softness to it and the elegance.  I even got to pointe and felt like such a ballerina.  I had body issues so I didn't follow that passion as much as I wish I had - but I never quit dancing.  I remember just turning up the music and creating my own dance routines - just expressing the passion, love, angst, sorrow and happiness I was feeling at any given moment.  Though I don't move as well as I did then I still dance -- as everyone should.  Dance like no one is watching -- I sure do!
Fourth passion is Music....... Music soothes the soul.  I used to lay in my room as a teenager with my favorite songs in the CD player (or even record or tape player --- sad my kid will never know these things!) and just lay on my floor in the dark as I closed my eyes and listened to the words sung.  I used to write down lyrics for their poetic words as I felt they would describe the feelings I had inside.  I joined choir for one year and loved it but felt I was more of a shower singer!! lol  I still love to sing and all types of music.  Seriously my CD collection has anything from Bach to George Strait to Pantera to Lynyrd Skynyrd to Madonna to Usher to Beastie Boys to Soundtracks (and everything in between!)  I grew up listening to pop and "Woodstock" tunes!  Probably even some Disco!  I hope to infuse that same love of music to my son!
My last passion is writing!  I used to journal ALL the time.  I hate looking back on them but it's nice to have all that written down for recall!!!   There were many a nights where journaling probably saved my sanity.  It was like my own shrink! lol  I even wrote poetry at one time.  I rarely share that stuff - but one time I did with a friend who wrote music.  I might hear one of my "songs" on the radio one day!!! ;)  not really -- but writing can really soothe a soul sometimes.  I'm glad I can blog now.  I don't share everything I "blog" with you guys -- so I guess one day when I'm long gone -- someone will have to crack my code and see what other thoughts and ramblings I had in here!!! lol

Can I have a 6th one?!?!   My kid!  Trevor is my everything.  He was perfectly planned.  Yes that's right I planned him -- big shocker eh!??! lol  He is my biggest accomplishment and greatest joy!  He is the passion in my life - what I live, breathe and die for!  But really what he is is family -- that's a passion too!  I love family, family moments, family traditions, etc.  I think that's why I want to share so much with him.

What are your PASSIONS??!?!!?