The Fabulous Foster Four

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2011-09-25T10:32:00.001-07:00

As you all know, my mom is an absolutely fantastic woman. She can do it all and with a relative amount of grace (for those of you who don't know, she is a little accident-prone!). So, I was a little worried this year when she asked for electric hedge trimmers for her birthday. But, how could I say no? Hopefully my next post won't be from (another) trip to the ER!

She really wanted to see the movie Abduction on her birthday, which was Friday, so I dropped the kids off and we used her free movie passes (I know, I know, I should have treated, but she DID get free movie passes from her friend after all) to see the movie.

Then, another thing she has been asking me to do for the last several years is take her to Red Hawk casino (an Indian casino within about 15 minutes from her house). So, her friend Joanna and I took her last night and we had an awesome time. She loves buffets, and of course all three of us ate ourselves sick, but the food was actually quite decent!

She was a little upset that there weren't any "put your quarter in the hole and pull the bar" slots, but she made do. She parked herself here in the non-smoking section for a while and had a great time.

Yes, we did manage to make fools of ourselves most of the night; but, what else are your going to do on your birthday?

Then, because we hadn't eaten enough that night, we came home and had ice cream cake and all slipped into a food coma! Happy Birthday, Mom. Sorry for outing you, but you look absolutely freakin' fantastic and hot for 64! I love you!

My Favorite Birthday Present

2011-09-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

My favorite present this year was my trip to Maui with just my mom and sister, Jenn. I still can't believe they paid for EVERYTHING! I barely had to get my wallet out at all the whole 5 days! It started out as a girls trip, but how can we go to Maui (albeit the other side of the island) and not see my three precious nephews. So, Crew joined us for the first night and then on day 3 we ended up going to see all my nephews surf. We had such an amazing time, and it was so good to reconnect with both my mom and sister without all our kids around. This first picture was a trip from our room at the Ritz.

We flew in and immediately headed for the pool for a few hours. Then, we got cleaned up and went to dinner and shopping in Lahaina.

Woke up the next morning, Jenn took Crew back to Wailea and then came back to Kapalua (where we were staying) and the three of us headed for the beach. A little windy, but such a relaxing time not to worry about watching kids in the ocean, etc.

Dinner at Lulu's (thanks for the tip, Loretta!), more shopping, and then we went to see The Help - great movie for any of you who have not seen it!

Playing around in the vines ...

There was a great south swell starting on Wednesday, so we met my nephews and brother-in-law, Geoff, so we could see all their surfing skills. They totally ROCK! I can't believe how well they all can surf ... even Crew!

Chase ...

Caden ... (a little blurry because he had to be a bit farther away from the paddle surfers)

and Crew.

Then, Thursday we woke up and took a gorgeous walk to the Ritz Residences and snuck into their pools ... more gorgeous pools and of course gorgeous views!

These chairs were so cool and relaxing!

This picture is for my friend Rene who always seems to taunt me with pictures of her perfectly manicured toes in some beautiful tropical location ... so ha ha to her!

On the way back we did a little climbing out onto the rocks to look at some tide pools (one of my mom's favorite things to do). I can't believe how young and sprite she is at age 63 (sorry for outing your age, but you are in AMAZING shape and have boundless energy!).

Me and my sis ... best pals forever! Thanks, Mom and Jenn for the perfect vacation ... I could not have hoped for anything more than to spend five days in paradise with the two of you. I love you both so much! And, thanks to Russ and Geoff for watching all our crazy boys so we could get away.

Turning 40? ... not all that bad!

2011-09-04T12:01:00.001-07:00

Well, it finally hit ... the big 4-0. My mom and Russ threw me the most amazing Hawaiian themed party with about 75 people coming to share my big day. We noshed on sandwiches, salads, chips, and cakes. All my friends and family brought delicious side dishes to share. The kids were happy playing outside the whole time (yipee!) in the pool and a bounce house/waterslide that my mom rented for the party. I was able to catch up with a lot of friends and family I don't get to see all that often, which was so much fun. My sister made the most amazing video of my life from birth to 40 set to music (which I had already watched like 10 times before my party), and everyone at the party enjoyed watching that as well. All in all, turning 40 was fabulous!

We had a hard time getting my niece Rachel and Trenton out of the bounce house and water slide at the end of the evening. They had so much fun!

First Day of School!

2011-08-15T19:15:00.001-07:00

Fortunately, my boys love, Love, LOVE the first day of school. They thrive on the routine. Today was no different. I got lots of giggles in excitement of going to school this morning.

I had to post this picture of Brennen and his teacher, Mrs. Reynolds (on the right) and one the aides in his class, Mrs. Perez. He is just getting so gosh darned tall that I swear he is growing EVERY day!

Both boys had a fabulous first day of school ... and mommy got so much done (doctor appointment, shopping at Borders, then home to do laundry and work). I forgot how much work I can get done by myself!

Camp Time

2011-06-26T19:13:00.001-07:00

T-man is off to camp for the first time. It's a fantastic camp - Camp Grizzly Creek just north of Truckee. It's 5 days/4 nights and it's through the Autism Center for Excellence - the socialization group the boys go to at Sac State, so he knows all the campers, knows all the counselors, etc. His counselor, Meghan, was so nice and and texted me as soon as they got there (I had been having nightmares about the bus crashing) and told me to call her if I was ever worried about him. But, I know he will have a fabulous time. The camp director had passed out an itinerary letting us parents know what the kids would be doing at every hour of the day while at camp (what organizaton!). I just love these people!

Saying good-bye - Look, no tears from Mommy! (Phew!) Can you tell how excited he is? And, no, he is not as tall as me yet - he's standing on the curb!

On the bus and ready to rock and roll! The camp director said he'd be sure to take plenty of pictures and e-mail them nightly to us worry-wart parents - it's like he can read my mind! I am so proud of my baby going to sleep-over camp and can't wait to hear all about it!

Angels Baseball 2011

2011-06-22T11:39:00.000-07:00

Trenton just completed his first year of Challenge Little League! He had such a fun time playing catch with dad before each game and having Russ teach him the ins and outs of baseball. It is so low stress ... each of the kids gets a turn to bat each inning ... there are no outs ... and it's okay if a kid thinks they hit a home run and runs all the bases with the biggest smile you have ever seen! Trenton was on the Angels this year (which was great since his favorite color is red!).

Here are some funny videos of Trenton (if I am able to upload them!). Whenever Trenton would wear his Angel's shirt, we would call him zombie man because he hated the feel of the shirt (even though we tried cutting off the buttons, wearing another shirt inside, etc.)

He also loved to shuffle and kick up chalk and dust everywhere, but that video wouldn't load! Gotta love this kid!

BEST ... MOM ... EVER!!!!!

2011-05-08T10:53:00.000-07:00

I know everyone thinks their mom is the best mom in the world, but I can actually say for certain that I KNOW I have the best the mom in the universe! My mom is the kindest, sweetest, always there for you sort of woman. Everyone who meets her absolutely falls in love with her bubbly, energetic personality. And, speaking of energy, she is the most active 63-year-old (sorry Mom!) I know. She can keep up with my two boys and my sister's three boys like no one else can. She is the best teacher in the world; even though she is retired, she STILL substitute teaches whenever she is home. I can see her subbing until she dies because she just loves teaching and still keeps in contact with a lot of students from her past 40 years, who always say she was their favorite teacher! My mom will drop EVERYTHING to help someone in a bind. She thinks about everyone else before herself. When asked when I was younger what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would always want to be my mom because she is so much fun and so uninhibited. I still wish I could be half the mom that she is. She has more personality in her thumb than I do in my whole self! I love you so much, Mom, and I hope that even the tinest bit of you has rubbed off on me. Happy Mother's Day!

Patience ...

2011-05-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

So, Russ and I took the boys to the River Cats game last night because one of our teachers was Teacher of the Year for our district last year (Congrats Mrs. Kirby-G!) and they were doing a whole presentation thing before the game. We had a whole section of Navigator families and staff. The boys had a blast! Brennen was rocking, vocalizing, doing a lot of verbal stimming (overall just making his excited noises), squeezing me, playing with my hair, and Trenton was also playing with my hair, putting his arm up my shirt sleeve, dancing around ... Both boys were just being on their most active behavior, but not unruly so. Anyway, a friend sitting next to me said, "You have a lot of patience!" Well, my first instinct was defensive ... "How rude" ... "How dare you challenge my parenting skills" ... "Yes, they are autistic, but LET THEM BE THEMSELVES". But then, I stopped, looked at her and realized that she was not in fact making a critique but actually giving me a compliment (something I am NOT good at accepting). And, I decided to turn my attitude around because, gosh darn it I HAVE had to work hard at being a patient person. This was definitely my lesson to learn after having kids because, as my sister can tell you, patience does NOT come by me naturally! So, thank you Vickie, for the wonderful compliment. I will take it and smile for the rest of the day!

Happy Birthday, Sissy!

2011-04-27T06:52:00.000-07:00

My sister shares a part of me

no one will ever know.

And when the days and miles divide us,

the bond we share will grow.

Together we have dreamed our dreams

and shared our love and laughter.

First my sister she will be,

and my friend for ever after.

(- Patsy Grant)

Happy Birthday to one of the most fabulous people on the planet, my sister, Jennifer! She is absolutely the most amazing person ever. She is so kind, generous, and accepting. And, oh man, if she isn't the most creative and fun person in the world, I don't know who is. She always manages to see the best in people and the good in EVERY situation. She inspires me daily. She is the best mom ever to her three beautiful boys and they just adore her, as does everyone who meets her. I know she will always lift me up when I am feeling down. I hate that we live so far away and am so jealous that she gets to live in Hawaii! But, that's what the phone is for, and I think we actually manage to see each other more and more each year. We have always had such a special friendship, and I can count on one hand the number of fights we have had in our whole life! We are the best of friends as well as sisters. I love you so, so, so, so much, Sissy, and wish you a very happy birthday!

HAPPY EASTER!

2011-04-26T09:46:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a happy Easter ... we sure did! The bunny came, spoiled the kids rotten again, and left me to deal with the sugary aftereffects! So worth it to see the joy on Trenton's face, though! Brennen (in typical teenage fashion) is just happy about the candy!

Here is Trenton's side ...

and Brennen's side ...

Trenton was so excited, he didn't know where to start. He always checks out his stuff, and then Brennen's stuff (making sure his brother didn't get more/better stuff than he did) and then digs in!

This year, he was most excited about more Trackmaster Thomas sets, Epic Mickey for Wii (I must admit that one is a little dark and scary!), and Marble Mania Galaxy (3.5 hours to put together ... thank you Easter Bunny!).

Brennen could have sat there all day long and just been in candy bliss!

We also celebrated Brennen and Grandma Betty's birthdays since they both fell so close to Easter this year.

Ready to go egg hunting? These three sure were! Rachel and Trenton were so excited, they were tripping over each other to get out the door.

Brennen likes to find an egg, open it to see the prize, eat it if it is edible, and then he wanders around looking for another egg. So, needless to say, Brennen only finds about half a dozen each year.

Rachel (my beautiful niece) was the big winner this year. She had more than my two kids combined! She came up with about 33 (out of 63 eggs hid). Go Rachel!!!

So, this was my favorite year for egg decorating. First, Brennen wouldn't let anyone touch the first batch of eggs because he wanted to do all 20 himself (pushing both Trenton and I out of the room while he dyed his eggs). So, I boiled another 20 for Trenton and I to do last Friday night while Brennen was at Grandma's. Totally out of character, Trenton DID NOT want to dye easter eggs this year! Whoo Hoo!!!! I actually got 20 eggs to myself! I made snorklers, tried shaved crayon on hot boiled eggs (very cool, but it really burns your fingers), got really brightly dyed eggs, mixed colors to make new colors ... anyway, I had a LOT of fun! The peacock egg down below was Brennen's that he entered last week in the egg decorating contest.

My snorkeling eggs - apparently we are wanting to go back to Hawaii in a big way!

... and dinosaur eggs.

Is it too much to ask to get a decent picture with my boys? Apparently, yes, especially if they have had too much sugar!

My beautiful and fun mommy!

Now, the house is a mess, the kids are sugared up still (but at least school started back today!), and Russell is gone all week. PARTY TIME! (with major clean-up efforts at the end of the week).

Safetyville USA

2011-04-19T18:57:00.000-07:00

Another successful (combined!) birthday party for my two wonderful boys!

Some of my very best friends in the whole world (Stacy and Kelly above and Lanetta and Karen below). I could not live my life without any of these fabulous women!

We got to Safetyville, and the boys just took off! One of the best things about Safetyville is that everything is enclosed, so the kids go wild and you don't have to worry about anyone getting out. We bring scooters, skateboards and bikes. We also bring bubbles, jump ropes, balls, etc. So there is something for everyone.

Brennen ...

Kayla ...

Trenton (complete with attitude!) ...

My niece Rachel (I am just now noticing how far away all these pictures are!) ...

Grandma Gayle with Karen and little miss Abbi on her first trike!

Not sure what Russ is doing in this pic, but I had to put it in anyway!

Still can't believe how tall Brennen is!

This would have been such a cute picture, but Abbi turned at the last minute.

Inside the party room ... just some snacks and drinks and the party table.

Brennen so happy with his skateboard dude cake.

Me and T

Abbi turns 2 on Friday, so she got in on the festivities, too. Karen brought her a Woody cake (from Toy Story), and Trenton pouted for the next half hour because he didn't get a Woody cake. Seriously, Dude?!

Such a fun, fun day. The weather was perfect ... not too hot and not too cold. Nobody got hurt until the VERY end when we were loading up the cars. Poor little Malia cut her toe and needed a BandAid. Happy Birthday Party to Brennen and Trenton, my two perfect little angels!

I HAVE A TEENAGER!!!

2011-04-18T09:26:00.001-07:00

Well, it's official ... I am old! I finally have a hormone-enraged teenager! What a sweetie, though. I have enjoyed (almost) every single second of your life, Brennen Tyler! I am so proud of Brennen and all that he has accomplished and overcome in his short little life so far, and I look forward to what his future brings. There is so much that is being started for special needs adolescents and adults right now, that I feel comfortable that his needs will be taken care of in years to come. This picture above was from Saturday at our Ward Easter Activity ... He won the Easter Egg decorating contest (of course he was the ONLY one to enter, but I'm sure he would have won anyway!). Here are a few of my favorite pics from years past ...

Here are a few pictures of him and Grandma and how much he has grown! I think this one is 2004 ...

Then Christmas of 2008 ...

And, at his birthday at John's Incredible Pizza last night. He has shot up and filled out incredibly over this past year!

I love, love, love taking pictures of the boys when they used to fall asleep at the dinner table!

Our first (and only!) attempt at soccer.

Chillin in his new room ...

This is one of my favorite pictures because it catches crazy boy in action!

Still loves Easter ...

Kindergarten play and graduation ... He was soooo excited!

His face is starting to change here and starting to mature ...

There was a huge jump in maturity between ages 8 and 10 ...

This was again from last night. Yes, he has officially passed me up since I am wearing heels and he is STILL taller than me! I love you so much, Brennen. Happy Birthday, Baby! Can't wait to have your birthday party tomorrow!

My Baby is 10!!!!

2011-02-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness! I cannot believe my "little" Trenton is 10 years old today! How time flies. I just love this little man more than words can say. He has so much fire in him, and I love to see his creativity at work.

I swear he came into this world knowing how to make people laugh (and how to make his brother cry). I remember when he was just crawling and he would crawl underneath Brennen's desk and turn off his computer at the surge strip, which would send Brennen crying to me complaining about his brother. I would come back into the room and Trenton would just be sitting under the desk with the biggest smile ever!

Trenton most always sees the positive in every day. He has determined he was put on this Earth to have fun (and to acquire as many toys as possible). He has always loved just being outdoors. He loves to go to the park and play in the backyard.

And, yes, Trenton loves, loves, loves his grandma! Well, honestly, who doesn't love Grandma Gayle! She is so much fun to be with.

When Trenton was younger, we would catch him in the backyard reading or playing with his animal toys in the "jungle". As much as Trenton likes to entertain people, he really enjoys his alone time as well.

This was one of the first days of Kindergarten. He loved starting school, and he still loves going to school. I hope (somewhat naively I think) that this attitude never changes! He loves learning new things and seeing his friends at school.

This is one of my favorite pictures. You can just see the glint in his eye that says, "Oh shoot, Mom caught me just as I was planning my next move!"

Trenton loves Halloween. He loves to pick his costume each year, loves going to pumpkin patches, decorating pumpkins, Halloween parties, and of course the candy!

He was so happy at his Kindergarten graduation. We really noticed a newfound maturity after this. It was like he was a "big boy" at school after he completed Kindergarten.

Trenton LOVES to swim and hang out in the backyard all summer. He can entertain himself outside from sun up to sun down ... bubbles, chalk, swimming, trampolining, swinging, making up stories with his animals, or making new "Trentonland" rides (like Disney rides, but with the extra Trenton twist!).

Superman! What is it about boys that makes them seek out high places and jump?

Talking to the animals in the backyard jungle.

And, of course, his first true girlfriend Rylee. We miss her so much. She moved away two years ago and he still talks about her! She was truly a gem who really understood Trenton.

What a handsome guy! I could just nibble him up!

These days, Trenton is so into arcades. He loves going to Chuck-E-Cheese, John's Incredible Pizza, Monster Mini-Golf, or the Fun Factory (Maui). He is all about games, tickets, and winning prizes. I swear he could probably spend 24 hours there and never get tired of it! Of couse, we would be out hundreds of dollars, but who's counting? My dad built him a skee-ball game for Christmas, so now he thinks Papa Ron is going to build him all these arcade games like Whack a Gator, Big Bass Wheel, etc. But, for now, he has to be happy with just finding arcade games on the computer to play, or the plug-n-play arcade games for the TV.

Trenton and Crew diving for fish/eels/etc. in Maui. Trenton still talks about "grey eel" who he tried to feed sand. They had so much fun diving around the reefs!

And, once again with Grandma Gayle. She is such a blessing in our lives! Trenton, Mommy and Daddy love you so very much and thank God every day for you. You make us laugh, cry, and worry all the time, and I wouldn't trade you for anything! I wish I were as uninhibited as you. You are able to do what you want and say what you want, and everyone still loves you! I am in awe of your imagination and creativity. I have no idea where that came from! I look forward to many, many years of watching you grow, mature, and continue to make us giggle!

First Day of School

2010-08-09T09:55:00.000-07:00

Well, gone are the lazy mornings, days by the pool, going to bed at midnight ... THE KIDS ARE BACK IN SCHOOL!!!!! Yea! No more fighting!

Both boys seem to be very happy with their classes and had fun seeing their school friends this morning. They were so excited in fact that Brennen got up around 5:30 this morning, and Trenton shortly after. They were able to play Wii and computer, have a nice breakfast, and get ready for school ... all without trying to rush out the door. Brennen laughed all the way to school, he was so excited! I get to go in to Trenton's class later today and talk to them about autism. Surprisingly, there is only about half his class that have been in a class with Trenton before, so I need to go warn them about all his little idiosyncracies (as well as his tendency to swipe stuff from other people's desks!).

Amusement Park Junkie

2010-07-23T15:55:00.001-07:00

Chase was so excited to come out to California and do as many amusement parks as possible. So, after deep sea fishing with my dad, my mom picked him up and headed to Santa Cruz and did the boardwalk with my Aunt Susan and my beautiful and crazy cousin, Morgan (pink hair). She really is very sweet and teaches art classes at the Museum of Modern Art in Boston. We love her to death but only get to see her once a year if we're lucky! After the Boardwalk and all the rides (sorry, Jenn, no pictures from there), Mom, Chase, and Morgan headed out on Monday to Great America in Santa Clara. My mom can't ride any rides due to her multiple back fusions, but Morgan was game for anything, and apparently they rode them all!

Then, after a two day rest period (which of course included movies, John's Incredible Pizza, swimming, etc), Chase and I headed out on Thursday to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. It was a totally different experience than going with my kids! I have been too many times to count with my kids, but we never go on the big roller coasters. We usually stick to the smaller ones, see the shows, play on the playground, etc., but Chase only wanted to do the big roller coasters and the midway games. So, not quite 24 hours later, my equilibrium is finally getting back to normal. He had me on rides I swore I would NEVER go on (which I secretly liked!)

Chase looooooves all these midway games, but he was limited to $20. I was very proud of him because he really looked over everything and chose two games that he liked the best ... and he came away with winning two basketballs. Two basketballs for $20 ... not bad!

I had such a fun day just one-on-one with my Chasers!

Fishing and Fun

2010-07-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Papa Ron and Momo took Chase out deep sea fishing on Saturday. This was Chase's first time fishing, and he was a little nervous (and sleepy since they had to get up at 3 a.m.!). Margo did not fare so well on the boat and got VERY sea sick, but she did manage to get a few pictures and video for us - what a trouper!

Monterey Bay is just so beautiful!

There are no pictures of Chase fishing, but here is one of their catches. Hopefully, I will be able to successfully upload the video below!

Chase's buddy, Bailey (my dad's dog).

We all converged at my dad's on Sunday. Russ and I had been in SF for the weekend, and my mom had the boys (bless her soul) in the 104 degree Sacramento heat, but we all met up at Dad and Margo's on Sunday for lunch and swimming.

Chase with my Papa Ron and Momo! Not sure what is happenening with uploading the video below ... I will try to post and see if it magically appears!

All is good and right in the world ...

2010-07-15T18:51:00.000-07:00

Chase Tyler Granum is in California, where he belongs! Whoo Hoo! For those of you who don't know, Chase is my oldest nephew (my sister's first of three boys) from Hawaii, so we rarely get to see him anymore. Brennen and Trenton absolutely adore him and worship the ground he walks on. He has always been so patient with them and accepting, and they listen to him and obey him and can't wait to visit him or for him to visit us. This year, he is out for two weeks, staying with my mom, going deep sea fishing with my dad this weekend, and spending time with us, as well as visiting other relatives. Stay tuned for pictures throughout the week, as we have many exciting plans. These pictures are just from day one, a little fun in the pool. Chase is always good for a few death defying tricks to show Trenton, like jumping off the retaining wall for a water skateboarding show - Sorry, Jenn!

Showing Trent how to actually jump off the side of the pool with the skateboard ...

General craziness ...

and carrying Brennen on his shoulders!

We love you, Chase, and are so happy you are visiting us!

Foster Family Vacation

2010-06-17T18:55:00.001-07:00

Well, the Foster Four took our annual trek down south a couple weeks ago, complete with highs, lows, and everything in between. We could not have hoped for two better boys on the ride down to LA - absolutely PERFECT! We drove down on the Saturday before Memorial Day and checked into our hotel in Anaheim, ate dinner, swam, slept, then got up Sunday morning and drove to Oceanside where we stayed Sunday and Monday (as we didn't dare go to Disneyland on Memorial Day Weekend!).

The boys had an amazing time at the beach. They are so at home in the ocean, and the weather was perfect (the water a bit cold, but it is the ocean after all). Sunday night after the beach and at dinner, Trenton started in ... "I want to go home. I don't like vacation. Vacation is over." Well, my dear son, you could not be farther from the truth. So, like any good parent, I took him to Target to pick out a toy!

That seemed to satisfy him, but he did cry himself to sleep that night, complaining that we still had SIX MORE DAYS OF VACATION (boo hoo).

We woke up Monday, went to the beach, and everyone was just fine for the time being.

This is our view from our room in Oceanside. I think if Brennen could have any wish in the world, it would be to live at the beach.

Trenton was so into collecting shells this trip and would only bring back the best ones (ones that weren't chipped, etc.). Monday after the beach, we got cleaned up and drove back to Anaheim, where the complaining began again. "I don't want to go do Disneyland." Well, tough luck, Kid, we have four five-day park hopper passes, so GET OVER IT! After calls to my sister, who kindly reminded me that Trenton just does this on vacation, we foraged to at least Downtown Disney on Monday night. I was hoping to get the kids into the park just to ride a couple rides or even walk around - WRONG! As soon as we were passing Disneyland and California Adventure, they both totally melted down that they hated Disneyland, wanted to go home, etc. PULEEEEESE, boys! Seriously?!

Once again, we resorted to toys (always a great reinforcer for Trenton). Well, we obviously made it to Downtown Disney, but Trenton informed us that we were going to the store and then back to the hotel - "NO DISNEYLAND!" Okay, for now. We went back to the hotel and swam wondering what the heck we were going to do with four Disney park hopper tickets. Do we just scrap the rest of the trip and try to sell the tickets on e-bay?

Nope! Like all good parents, we drug our children kicking and screaming into Disneyland (well, it wasn't quite that traumatic, but their objections were duely noted).

They warmed up soon after we got there. The front of the line passes helped a lot, though, with Trenton's anxiety about standing in line and Brennen's, well, trying to scare everyone with his loud voice! We made it until about 4 and then went back to the hotel, swam, and had dinner. We totally took everything at the kids' pace and didn't drag them on anything they didn't want to go on (which was unfortunately a lot), but at least they were finally having fun.

I still love that they are fascinated by things like this cake that would pop up when you pushed a button in Minnie's house. They must have stood there for five minutes making the cake inflate and deflate. It's the little things ...

Trenton on Buzz - we got to ride this one A LOT!

This was the view from our room in Anaheim. We could see almost all of Disneyland and California Adventure, and the fireworks show was at 9:30 every night over the Matterhorn, which we had a perfect view of!

We swam EVERY DAY. There were so many pools there - one big pool, one small pool, one private hot tub, one giant rectangular hot tub about half the size of the big pool, and two small hot tubs on the roof. Very cool! We did have one mishap, however. We bought the kids dive sticks, which Trenton proceeded to open and throw into the pool from our balcony ... oh, did I forget to say we were on the 11th floor?! Luckily, he did not hit anyone. I don't know what I would do if he had hurt someone - hide for the rest of the trip?

Monsters, Inc. We went on this one a lot, too. Both boys totally dug on this one.

Wednesday, we went to California Adventure - much less crowded, and the boys had a blast. Is that Trenton in 3D glasses?! What is this world coming to? For those of you who don't know, Trenton has an intense aversion to 3D ANYTHING! But, he loved Toy Story Mania.

Yes, we had to go on all the little kiddie rides, too! Even the stupid ones in Bugs Land, but at this point we were still just happy to get the kids through the door!

Trenton's hero ... Lightning McQueen!

Me and my baby boy! Not the happiest trip for him. He kept asking to go to Sea World. Oh well, maybe next year!

Brennen totally digs on these elevated nets all over the Brother Bear play area or whatever it's called. I kept trying to take pictures of him because he was laughing the entire time and running way faster than Mommy in flip flops, but this was the only time he stopped to look at me! I should have had my video camera, but what is one to do when you are a couple stories above ground and no idea where you left the backpack?

My BFF since kindergarten, Kristen, and her son Jake met us at California Park. They live right by Magic Mountain and meet us at Disney whenever we go down there. They are so much fun to hang out with! And, Kristen and I just pick up on our conversation where it ended the year before.

Can you believe these two hot babes are almost 40?!

Obligatory family pic by the sun wheel. Yes, I went on that Ferris Wheel, but not in the cars that move in and out of the middle. Pretty good for a gal who is VERY afraid of heights!

Trenton loves, loves, loves Playhouse Disney Live on Stage. We had to see the show a couple times, always sitting near the back as we never know when the mood will suit him to just jump up and dance. And, I must say, he is a pretty wild dancer!

Pixar Play Parade - always a bit hit. Everything was obviously Toy Story oriented with the new movie coming out.

And, no, Trenton DID NOT run out into the parade this year to touch Lightning McQueen! My little baby is growing up!

Wrestling in the room - always a must at the end of the day!

Well, this is what Thursday looked like. Poor Brennen. We walked through the doors of Disneyland, and he laid on the floor. We took him to the bathroom and then parked ourselves on these stools. Russ and I took turns taking Trenton on a few different rides. Brennen actually made it on a couple, too, and lasted until about noon. Then, he got chills from head to toe and wouldn't come out of the bathroom. I finally made it back to the room with him around 1:30, where he took a bath, climbed into bed, and didn't get out again until 9 p.m. This was supposed to be the day that Russ and I dragged the kids on whatever WE wanted to go on. I guess Brennen got wind of this and made himself sick. So, we ended up packing up early and leaving on Friday. Once again, the boys did great until we got home, but then Brennen got sick again, and then I got it Saturday, so I know he wasn't faking - and believe me, whatever this ulgy stomach bug was, it was NOT fun! Trenton was sooooo happy to be home. He kept talking all the way home that he was going to play with this toy or that, he was going to sleep in HIS bed, play in HIS pool, etc. And, yes, he is already planning next year's vacation! Let's hope Sea World in 2011 is a better trip!

Happy Birthday, Brennen Tyler!

2010-04-19T10:20:00.001-07:00

My Baby is 12!!!! I can't believe how fast time flies. I remember my parents telling Jenn and I as kids that time goes by so much faster as you get older and not quite knowing what that meant, but now I totally get it. Brennen is now 12, and completely encompassing all that the pre-teen years bring - good AND bad. I think I might literally lose it with one more eye roll, "go away", door slam, etc. But then, he always comes around for hugs, nuzzles, and cuddles when the mood has passed.

Brennen has been growing so much this year. He is about 5'4" and 130 lbs ... well on his way to being as big as his daddy. He is LOVING school. He is in 6th grade and in an ILS class (Independent Living Skills) at the middle school. They have a full kitchen and laundry facilities in the classroom and learn how to cook, clean, do laundry, and they have CBIs (Community Based Instruction) about every other week where they learn how to take the bus, light rail, make shopping lists to stock the classroom kitchen, do their own grocery shopping, etc. It is an amazing class and I'm just sad that not EVERY child has the opportunity to take this class.

Brennen is such a sweatheart and loves to be outdoors. He loves to jump on the trampoline, swim, scooter, ride his bike. His favorite vacations are anywhere beachy. He loves the ocean. Thankfully, we are getting into some nicer weather so he can spend more time outside. This winter has been rough on him. He's not quite sure what to do indoors and unfortunately spends most of his time closed up in his room on the computer. The sun still rises and sets over Grandma Gayle, and she can do no wrong. We are so thankful to have her in our lives and so appreciative of all her help with both boys.

We are excited about what the future brings for Brennen. It seems that there are becoming more and more resources for autistic kids, teens, and (hopefully soon) adults. It's funny when Brennen comes home trying to tell us some random thing he heard at school; sometimes it takes a while, but we eventually get what he is saying or what song he is trying to sing! We are thrilled for times like Russell had last week when they were driving home and Brennen grabbed his arm and looked directly at Russ and said clear as a bell, "It's a horse!" (They had in fact just passed a horse). It's fun to see all the pieces come together with his own words plus eye contact. With all the challenges autism brings, I still thank Heavenly Father every day for my beautiful boys and feel so blessed to be their mom! I love you, Brennen Tyler. Happy Birthday, Angel!

HAPPY EASTER!

2010-04-05T10:38:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a fantastic Easter. We sure did! The weather was horrible for the entire spring break, and Russ' heart surgery complicated things a bit, but we did manage to squeeze in some fun Easter festivities, starting with dying Easter eggs! My kids LOVE to dye Easter eggs, especially Brennen. However, he was wearing his bathing suit when he was dying eggs this year; and, on further review of the pictures of him dying eggs, I didn't want to be accused of putting child pornography on the Web! Oh well - at least you can see the end results!

Easter Morning. Trenton's basket ...

and Brennen's basket ...

It seems that each year the bunny forgets what she has bought and ends up with too much crap!

Easter egg hunt. The weather cooperated Easter morning (even though it was freezing), so the kids were able to hunt eggs outside. Even Brennen looked for eggs! He would find an egg, open it, if he liked the prize (jelly beans or fruit snacks) he would eat it and keep the egg, if not (ring pop, toy, etc), he would snap the egg back together and put it back for Rachel or Trenton. Needless to say, Brennen was happy with the five eggs he found, while Rachel and Trenton were sweating since they actually race til they drop to find the most eggs!

Trenton is NEVER without his video camera. He is totally documenting his life story. Crazy kid! I just hate it when he plays them back and I'm yelling at him for something or another. He cracks up and I just sound like mean mommy.

It was also Uncle Kevin's birthday. Happy 30th Kevin!

I rarely have pictures of me since I'm the one always behind the camera, but I am going to really try this year to jump in sometimes so that years from now my kids actually remember they had a mommy! I love my boys so much and had such a fun Easter with them!

Happy Birthday, Boys!!!

2010-03-29T07:44:00.001-07:00

Back by popular demand, and a little arm twisting by my sister, I am back to blogging. What a better way to start back than with my boys' combined birthday party at Safetyville USA. Trenton took my camera for most of the party and I couldn't find it, but at least I got a couple pictures of the boys, and PLENTY of random pictures/videos from Trenton.

For those of you who don't know, Safetyville is a big enclosed "mini city" with small buildings, sidewalks, streets, stop lights, train tracks, etc. They do field trips during the week to teach the kids community safety. But, on the weekends, they rent it out for parties. The kids bring bikes, scooters, skateboards, skates, etc. and we just let them loose. It's a lot of fun. And, it was an absolutely perfect weather day - especially since it is supposed to rain all week now.
Brennen finally got to ride his new bike that he got for Christmas. He has been telling me "no, no" since he got his new bike, but it turns out he actually loves it!
This is inside "City Hall" which we used as the party room. This is T with my friend Kelly and her two daughters, Holdyn and Maison.
Okay, so the cakes almost put my mom down this year. Trenton and Grandma Gayle went to Sam's club on Tuesday to pick out the cakes for the party. Trenton was SOOOOO excited that they had a Transformers cake and then they picked out a sports ball cake for Brennen. My mom went to pick up the cakes on Sun morning, and apparently someone had stolen then on Saturday night - probably saw how cool they were and just took them and scraped off the names. BOOOOOO - I hate bad people! So, my mom called me almost in tears and said they were quickly putting together two cakes for her and only charged her for one (they probably shouldn't have charged her for either), but Grandma Gayle pulled through and came with the cakes.
Brennen Tyler - I cannot believe he is almost 12 - where does the time go?
They thought they were all that getting the head table to themselves!
Hope you made good birthday wishes, boys!
You have no idea how cool this picture is. Brennen only recently started liking opening presents, and he sat there and opened all but one of his presents ... then he ran out and jumped on his bike again!
Trenton has NEVER had a problem opening presents. Trenton's goal is life is to own EVERY toy ever made!
Trenton with Momo, Trailer Grandma, and Papa. It amazes me how good my Grandma looks and acts at age 91! Of course, her mom (my great-grandma) lived to 104 and my great-great grandma to 105! So, we will probably still have Trailer Grandma around for a while!

All in all, a perfect day for the perfect birthday party! I will try to post the video Trenton took of Safetyville, but I've never posted a video before - wish me luck!

San Diego

2009-08-14T13:27:00.000-07:00

Foster Family Vacation in Oceanside! Whoo Hoo! We had so much fun this week (yes, it's been over a month since we went down there and I am just now blogging about it). I came back with over 350 pictures, but that's what you get for letting your children and niece and nephew borrow your camera wherever we went!

Sea World ... Brennen wanted SO BADLY for the dolphin to come over so he could touch it, but we finally had to leave after 15 minutes.

Trenton getting swallowed by the starfish ... minutes after he puked up all his lunch all over the place. You are NEVER too sick to get your picture taken!

All the cousins ... Kayla, Derrick, Brennen, Trenton, and Rachel (with Russ waiting to catch her - what a good uncle!).

We had to see the fireworks again at Sea World a few nights later because Rachel insisted she DID NOT fall asleep, she was just hiding her eyes (uh huh!).

My big apes!

What a Motley Crew!

Best buddies ... Trenton and Derrick.

This was the general concensus of my picture taking by the end of the day!

San Diego beaches ROCK! My boys couldn't get enough of the ocean and actually ventured out way farther than I was comfortable with, but I can't let my fear of sharks get to them as well.

Yes, it is what you think, and no we do not know this girl! Trenton James ...

My little princess, Kayla! So sweet!

Brennen could seriously live IN the ocean. I think he might even have a good chance of swimming to Hawaii if we pointed him in the right direction! All in all, only one meltdown the entire week, no fighting, and a practically perfect trip! Can't wait to go back.

4th of July

2009-07-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

We had THE MOST fun 4th of July this year! We started off the day swimming up at my mom's house. Here is my crazy nephew, Chase. Hopefully, my boys weren't paying too much attention to his tricks!

This summer has been a whole new one for Trenton. He's been swimming with goggles, swimming under water and actually diving in the deep end for dive sticks. All this from the boy who up until a few weeks ago REFUSED to get his face wet when swimming!

My little niece, Rachel, is learning to swim and is doing fantastic!

My Brennen angel is always happiest in water!

We cleaned up and everyone came to our house for barbeque and fireworks.

My precious baby Abbie! Actually, my friend Karen's precious baby Abbie, but I like to pretend she's mine!

New friendship ... Alex and Chase.

Time for poppers ... yes, we are still trying to clean up all the confetti, as we did millions of poppers in the backyard while waiting for fireworks.

Sparklers! Whoo Hoo! Sorry, Jenn, but you know your son!

4th of July is one of Brennen's favorite holidays (and Trenton's least, of course). Brennen was totally enthralled. Daddy let him light a few fireworks this year, so he thought he was all that.

This was Chase's first year getting to light fireworks, too, and he was really excited (and a bit scared at first).

All in all, a very fun 4th of July ... until midnight when we awoke to our doorbell, smoke in the house, and the smoke detector going off. Apparently, we didn't quite extinguish all the fireworks (even though they were all in full buckets of water). One of the neighborhood kids came home from a party just before midnight and saw our bush on fire, started screaming for help, and grabbed our neighbor's hose and put out the fire by herself. By the time we all came out (and it was literally EVERYONE on our block), she had gotten control of the fire. Way to go!

CHASE

2009-07-04T10:03:00.001-07:00

Talk about cutting apron strings ... My nephew, Chase, is here visiting from Hawaii for the next two weeks by himself. My boys absolutely ADORE him. He is just one of those kids with an amazing amount of tolerance, patience, and sincerity. We love him to pieces.

Trenton couldn't wait to show Chase "Trenton Land" where he has printed and cut up still pictures from Disneyland rides and taped them up to walls, baseboards, cabinets, etc., plays the music from the ride on You Tube (blasting it through the house of course), and going around on his scooter boards acting out the rides. We have about 12 rides total throughout the house. I know, totally ghetto, but how can I stiffle this type of creativity! Here they are on the Toy Story Mania ride, throwing darts at my cabinets.

Last night, we went to the Hagan Park 4th of July Festival. We already have plans for the 4th, so we went on the 3rd. There were a bunch of carnival rides, and Chase wanted to ride EVERYTHING! Trenton opted for bumper cars ... a little more his speed since he is not quite the daredevil his cousin is!

Chase and Brennen went on some rides together, and Chase even went on a couple by himself, but those pictures turned out too blurry. He reminds me so much of my sister and I growing up. There was NOTHING we wouldn't go on.

Then, we set up chairs and blankets and sat on the lawn to watch the fireworks. It wasn't as great as I remember from a few years ago, but that could be because we went on the 3rd rather than the 4th. It was still fun, though.

I remembered to BRING glow sticks this year, because people walk around selling them for a fortune. My little entrepeneur nephew asked if he could sell his for $2 a piece (I had gotten 15 for $1), and make a little cash on the side!

Fireworks pictures never quite turn out for me, but I still like to take them! We had a really fun night ... can't wait for the real 4th tonight! More to come later ...

I'm blogging again!!!

2009-07-04T09:52:00.001-07:00

Well, I bit the bullet and finally sent my Brennen angel to overnight camp! I am starting to cut strings off my apron. He went with the ACE program (Autism Center for Excellence), an after school program he has been attending at Sac State. We absolutely LOVE everyone who works there (professionals and Sac State students putting in their intern hours). Here he is with his counselor, John, and getting on the bus. You can tell he's not quite sure what's going on.

He got to ride up next to his friend, Eric.

Here is the whole group that went ... 12 kids to 20 adults (not a bad ratio!).

With his counselor, John, who must have an incredible amount of patience. John said Brennen didn't eat hardly anything the entire time, but that all the adults loved the gourmet meals!

Canoeing, and yes, John said he had to paddle out to get Brennen to come back to shore!

More fun and games.

My angel! What a grown up boy, now!

He has the biggest crush on some of the girls who work for the ACE program. He always gets this big dumb grin whenever we drive up to the program at Sac State!

All in all, a great trip. We can't wait for next summer when the other munchkin gets to attend as well!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-11T11:04:00.001-07:00

I have to say, I am quite the spoiled mom! My boys have been making me all sorts of presents over the last week. On Thursday, we went to Brennen's open house and he gave me three flower plants that he had started, a mother's day book, all sorts of pictures, a decorated ceramic hand print and a lovely green bowl he had made in a pottery class at school! Then, Friday after school Trenton presented me with a bound book with pictures of him, drawings that he did, and fun facts all about me! I learned so much about myself that I didn't know. For example, my favorite color is brown (actually purple), favorite food is salad (okay, he got that one right), and that I weigh about as much as two bricks (I am hoping he means those little red ones!). It went on and on and made me crack up. Then, Saturday, I took my mother in law and sister in law out for lunch and pedicures (much needed if you have seen my feet lately!).On Sunday, the boys and I went to church and one of the girls in my class took a picture of us, since it is rare that I have a picture with both of my boys. I then walked Brennen to class and while I was gone, apparently my kids got a hold of the camera!

After church, we came home and relaxed. Then all the Fosters decended and Russell and Dennis (my brother in law) cooked everybody a delicious barbeque dinner ... chicken, shrimp, salad, fruit, angel food cake and strawberries (my fav), etc. Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there. You are all fabulous, but nobody can top MY mom ... the best of the best! I love her more than words can say. She is the kindest, sweetest, straightforward, most trustworthy person you could ever meet. I only wish I could be half the mom she has been to my sister and I. Oh, and Happy Mother's Day to my sister (another extraordinarily creative and fabulous mom). I love you, Jenn, and miss you terribly!

Easter

2009-04-20T10:45:00.001-07:00

I know, I am a bit late in posting Easter, but I am trying to catch up gradually! We had a wonderful Easter this year, and I loved reading about all of your Easters as well. Brennen totally got into dyeing eggs this year and was all business about it ... very particular! Trenton dyed eggs too, but was more of a drop and go, not too into it.

The finished products. Not too shabby, boys!

Easter morning. The bunny was very good to the boys this year. It's amazing how he leaves me pictures each year of everything looking nice before the boys wake up and start tearing through their stuff!

Trenton was first up, of course, and was most excited about his Bakugan balls and magic dragon fizzes. He did all four fizzes at once and got one dragon and three dinosaurs.

Brennen woke up a few hours later and eventually came down to go through his basket. He really liked this squiggly carrot pen and his lap harp. Please notice the incredibly beautiful picture of a cow! What an artiste!

Let the tormenting begin ...

Then, it was off to church for Trenton and I. I let Brennen stay home because he didn't even come downstairs to get his basket until Trenton and I were almost ready to leave for church. I love being Trenton's teacher!

After church, it was back home for Foster Family Easter and, of course, an egg hunt. I swear, this year, the bunny left us like 500 eggs to hide! Well, it seemed that way at least.

Trenton was very serious about the hunt and kept looking over at Brennen and Rachel to make sure they weren't going too fast.

Even Brennen hunted for eggs this year, which he usually doesn't like, but he did pretty well with Grandma's help.

Trenton's very full basket. He was so proud of himself!

Holy Candy, Batman! Yes, most of this went into the trash as soon as the kids went back to school.

Not your traditional Easter dinner, but I don't like ham and decided to make lasagne instead ... much less work and much yummier!

My precious Brennen! We also celebrated his birthday on Easter and Uncle Kevin's and Grandma Foster's, too since all their birthdays are around the same time. Happy Birthday, Brennen! I can't believe you are 11 now! You are crazy old!

Brennen's favorite ... angel food cake and sugar cookies!

Russell is always a good sport. He hates to have people over, even family, but he just makes fun of me and my mom the whole time and he seems to enjoy himself a bit more. I love you, Honey!

Monterey

2009-04-17T09:37:00.000-07:00

Nothing makes my children happier (or me more terrified) than a day at the beach. So, when my mom invited us along with her to Monterey for a few days, we jumped at the opportunity. About three weekends ago (I know it's been a while since I have blogged), we started our journey to Monterey, about a three hour trip. We were not even around the corner from our house when it started ... Trenton: "Monterey Beach. Let's go to Monterey Beach!" ... Brennen: "Yes". Trenton: "Let's go to the ocean" ... Brennen: "Yes". This ended up going on almost for the entire three hours, despite movies playing, etc. But, when we got there, it was all worth it. It was probably the coldest three days of my life, but the boys had a blast.

My boys were meant to live at the ocean. They are always so happy there. They are a little too confident in the ocean, though, which is what terrifies me most. Especially when the water is so cold and I can't follow them out as far as they want to swim.

My mom is going to kill me, but I had to put this in to illustrate how freakin' cold it was there! She is bundled up in her clothes, jacket, and a towel, and we were still freezing.

The next day we headed to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Temp was about -40 that day!

One of Trenton's favorite parts of the aquarium was where the water shoots down this wall, imitating the tides. Whenever he would run away, we would find him here.

Brennen was in a MOOD this day and all but refused to go into the aquarium. Something truly spooked him, and he was pissed because we weren't going IN the ocean that day.

Trenton loved touching the starfish, crabs, etc. and, of course, got in trouble for running away with one (oops!).

Brennen reluctantly coming into the aquarium.

These next few pictures are all Trenton. He grabbed my camera and started taking pictures in the outer reef exhibit. He was making everyone crack up around us because he would wait until just the right shot and then take it. A lot of the pictures are blurry because he was right up against the glass and we weren't allowed flash pictures. I got my camera back and there were seriously over 100 pictures I had to weed through that he had taken in a 10 minute period.

We were having a hard time finding a place to watch the scuba diver feed the fish in the tank, but Trenton had no problems finding his place! Wouldn't it be great to be eight again?

Dragon fish ... way cool!

We only lasted about two hours at the aquarium and then had to feed Russell. Brennen refused to go back in, so Russ took Trenton back and me, Brennen and Mom went for a walk along the beach trail. We stopped because we were wondering why everyone was looking at all these rocks. Well, they are all seals napping on the shore. Brennen wanted to stay and watch, but we had to keep moving or else we would freeze to death!

We then took the kids to Denice the Menace park. Now, when Jenn and I were growing up, I remember this park to be MUCH, MUCH bigger, but the boys still had a great time running around.

Then, we took the 17 mile drive between Monterey and Carmel and got out a couple times to let the boys walk around on the rocks. It never ceases to amaze me how incredibly gorgeous this part of the world is!

After many tears at the end of the previous day (since it was WAY to cold to go in the ocean), we woke up and took the boys to Carmel to swim in the ocean. There was barely a wind, so it was a bit warmer. Trenton loved building sand castles with Russ.

And, of course, Brennen was waist high in the first 5 minutes we were there! I made it knee high, but definitely not past that. Thanks, Mom, for a fun trip!

Swimming back at the condo. Me, Mom, Russ, and Brennen all swam in the way, way huge spa, while Trenton swam in the pool with these two teenage girls ... hmm.

Good-bye Rylee ...

2009-03-19T10:33:00.001-07:00

It was a very sad evening at our house yesterday. Trenton's very best friend in the whole world, Rylee, is moving to Pennsylvania today. We have had plenty of play dates together the last couple weeks, but we will miss her terribly. Rylee is Trenton's right arm. She is his biggest advocate and always sticks up for him and protects him at school. She even keeps me in check at times. Last fall, when she first started coming over to play, Trenton was making some noise over and over and over and over, and when I told him to stop making that noise, that it was driving me crazy, Rylee said, "Well, it's not like he's going to go to college making that noise!"

Trenton and Rylee singing Karaoke together at school

Playing in the pool ... yes, that is exactly what he is doing (he is such his father's child!).

Jumping on the trampoline.

They seriously fight just like a brother and sister, but love each other just as much. Trenton is always all over Rylee like white on rice, but she tells me she doesn't mind and can seriously hold her own when it gets to be too much. I held it together at school yesterday while we said good-bye, and Trenton and I had made her a memory book with pictures Trenton drew and photographs of them together, and then she got into the car and I turned and sobbed like a baby! I didn't realize I would be THAT upset about it. I don't think it has quite hit Trenton yet ... but he will definitely notice when she hasn't been at school for a while. We will miss Rylee terribly, but at least we live close to her grandma and so will definitely see her again.

DISNEYLAND!!!!!

2009-03-04T12:19:00.000-08:00

We had such an AMAZING time in Disneyland. It was so much fun hanging out with my sister Jenn and her kids Chase, Caden, and Crew. The first day was a bit rough. Everyone in the airport kept asking Trenton if he was going to Disneyland, and he would empatically say "NO!" But, we got there, got checked in, Trenton threw up (very nervous stomach) and we were good to go. Sunday, our first day in Disneyland, Trenton would get on a ride and then say "Go Home", so we weren't sure what the rest of the trip would be like, but he was a trouper! He would throw up each morning at our first event (breakfast at Goofy's Kitchen one morning and breakfast in a bakery in Downtown Disney the next), and then all would be okay.

First ride at Disneyland ... Peter Pan (one of my favorites!). Didn't throw up here, just shook his Diet Coke and opened it in line, spraying people in line ... but Caden jumped to the rescue and grabbed the fizzing bottle and held it in the bushes. Thanks, Buddy!

All the cousins together ... Trenton still wondering why he agreed to come to Disneyland.

Trenton totally dug his hat/menu at dinner at Hook's Tavern or whatever this way overpriced restaurant was called.

Hanging out with Chase in the hotel room ... Yes, we slept three to a bed (queen-sized).

Having fun at Goofy's Kitchen breakfast. After we booked it out of the restaurant to throw up, we came back and he had a fun time taking pictures with the characters. My camera is fuzzy here because I apparently had syrup on the lens ... TRENTON!!!

Chase and Jenn on California Screemin' at California Adventure Park. I love this ride, too!

My friend, Kristen, and her son, Jake, joined us at California Adventure Park. Jake is a total ham and I really enjoyed spending time with them and catching up on old times. Kristen is my dearest friend from when we were 5 years old! I just love her to pieces!

What a crazy bunch of dudes!

Trenton really liked California Park ... especially Toy Story Mania, Playhouse Disney live, and the Brother Bear park where you can run, slide, climb up the ropes, etc. Way fun! It was beautiful weather on Sunday and Tuesday, but it did rain on us for an hour on Monday ... not too bad.

Still hates Minnie Mouse for some reason, but had to take a picture anyway!

Trenton really liked the Pixar parade at California Park. He liked it sooo much, he ran into the parade so he could touch Lightning McQueen. Gave everyone a good laugh (except Security!).

We had dinner at Rainforest Cafe one night and Trenton was running all over the place taking pictures of all birds and animals in the vines and trees there. One of the workers stopped us and posed us for another picture, but T just wanted to get away to take more pictures.

My buddies, my helpers ... I could not have done Disneyland without them. They are so good at helping with Trenton, chasing him down and bringing him back when needed. Chase and Caden, You so totally rock!

Whenever Trenton was not at my side, it was a pretty safe bet he was in the nearest store. He was just absolutely amazed at all the shops and selection. Except, we were looking for Bolt toys, with none to be found. Oh well, he seemed to manage to find a few things to bring home!

The gang with Mickey Mouse.

Bad picture, but I had to put it in because this happened more often than you would think. Check out my youngest nephew, Crew, and his incredibly patient older brother getting bit on the leg. If Crew doesn't like something or thinks he has been wronged in any way, you can bet that he will take it out on his older brothers in the form of bitting. Poor Caden gets bit the most, I think, but Chase got a few to his stomach and arm, too.

We had fun on Tom Sawyer's Island, too. I know that's not the name of it anymore, but I forget what it's called now. Disneyland has changed so much since I have been there (just five years), but we had so much fun and I can't wait to go back again. Surprisingly, there was a lot that we just didn't get to in three days. Dare I say that next time we should go for five, or would that be pushing my luck?! Thanks, Jenn, for a fantastic vacation.

Eeek! My baby is 8!

2009-02-23T09:42:00.000-08:00

When did this happen? My baby turning 8 this morning? Crazy! I can remember vividly bringing him home from the hospital (of course, I can't remember what I fed the boys for breakfast this morning, but that's besides the point!). We woke up Saturday morning to Trenton running around the house "Birthday party day ... birthday party day!" He was so excited to get on with the festivities.

We had a party at Bounce Party USA ... a big bouncy house place, and he was so jazzed to be the center of attention. He was tackling all his friends and kissing on the girls (I swear his cousin Chase put him up to it!). I think he took the "It's my birthday party, I can do what I want" to the extreme, but at least the girls didn't mind being kissed! We had such a fun day with a lot of his friends.

Then, it was of course time for cake, ice cream, and presents. Trenton insisted on having a Bolt birthday party (his favorite movie that surprisingly I think was only in the theaters for like a week). The only place I could find Bolt party supplies was on BirthdayExpress.com, who has everything anyway. There were so many people at the party that Russ had to run to Costco and get a second cake!

Trenton got so many cool toys and enjoyed every single second of ripping through bags and wrapping paper. The second the last present was opened, he started grabbing all his bags and heading to the car ... no chance that anyone was going to take any of his stuff home!

When we got home, he immediately started opening everything and playing with it. I think we are finally through all the birthday carnage. Trenton had such a fun birthday party day, and today is his real birthday, so we will be doing a little something tonight for him as well. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TRENTON!

Congratulations, Mom!!!

2009-02-10T15:58:00.000-08:00

For everyone who doesn't know, this is my wonderful mom. She is absolutely the best mom in the world!!! She is so much fun and is willing to do ANYTHING! She has embarassed the heck out of my sister and I growing up; but, as I grow older, I find I do more and more things just like her, like striking up conversations with total strangers in the parking lot or at amusement parks, singing a song out loud thinking I am singing just to myself, and a number of other funny things.

She is also the best Grandma in the world. From the time Brennen was three weeks old, she has taken him at least every other Friday for fun night at Grandma's, and Trenton gets so excited when he gets to go, too. The sun literally rises and sets over Grandma because she takes the time and gets down to their level to play with them. As much as we love everything Grandma buys for us (decking the boys out for school each fall with a new wardrobe, backpacks, and school supplies, trips to Lake Tahoe, movies, toys, books, etc.) we just really enjoy spending TIME with her.

Which brings up the congratulations part. After 38 years of teaching anywhere from Kindergarten through 4th grade, my mom has finally decided to retire, and she just found out yetersday that her retirement notice has been accepted (although I am sure begrudgingly since everyone in her district looks up to her). This means, after July, we will get to spend more time than ever with her. I don't know how she feels about this, but we here at the Foster and Granum households are WAY, WAY, WAY excited. I love you mom, and I am sure you will be missed by your teacher and administrative peers, but I am selfishly VERY happy!

Bride Wars

2009-01-12T12:06:00.000-08:00

My mom and I went to see Bride Wars this weekend, and I just had to share that, despite the horrible reviews, we LOVED IT!!! It was completely histerical, laugh out loud funny. Anyway, if you want to see a light-hearted, funny movie ... this is it. It is only about an hour and half long, though; so, don't waste your money on a prime time show ... catch lunch and a matinee with one of your girlfriends!

nevermind ... I think I fixed it!

2009-01-08T10:50:00.001-08:00

Blog trouble

2009-01-08T10:42:00.000-08:00

Is anyone else having blogging troubles? I just posted about Disneyland and only two pictures showed up with only some of my text. When I preview my post it shows all the pictures and all of my journaling; but, when I post it, only part of my pictures and part of my journaling shows up. And, this past week, when I view my blog, only sometimes do the pictures and journaling show up at all; sometimes it just shows the header and how many comments. Maybe they are working on stuff. Anyway, just had to vent because it was a really funny story about Trenton and it's not coming through! Aaarghh!

HE SAID YES!!!!!!

2009-01-08T10:02:00.001-08:00

Well, this phrase has so many different meanings to so many different people, but to us here at the Foster household, it means that Trenton finally said Yes to going to Disneyland!!! We took what I thought was a terrific trip to Disneyland back in 2004. Trenton had just turned 3 and Brennen was almost 6. But, since then, Trenton has not wanted to go back ... I have no idea why ...

Doesn't he look happy to be in Disneyland?

Who wouldn't want to take a picture with this gigantic horse/dog .. what is Goofy anyway?

Or beat people up on Mr. Toad's Wild Ride?

Or even take a picture with this sweet gigantic mouse?

Anyway, the trip wasn't all bad for Trenton. He did have a lot of fun with his older cousin, Chase. Please understand that Trenton loves ALL things Disney ... movies, figures, games, books, etc.; however, at the mere mention of going to Disneyland, he breaks out in a cold sweat and bolts from the room! So, me being the perfect mother I am, use this to my advantage to torture him or just light a fire under him. This bit of information comes in handy when you need a good laugh or just to get him moving in the morning. We ask him all the time if he wants to go to Disneyland, and he shouts "NO, NO, NO!" So, after four years of torturing the poor child, he caved. On Monday, January 5, 2009, at approximately 3:37 p.m., we were wrestling on the floor and a Disneyland commercial came on ... at which point he froze and watched the screen, which was my cue to ask for the gazillionth time, "Do you want to go to Disneyland?" To which he replied "Yes!" I had to ask five more times before I could believe it! My first call was to my best friend/sister/partner in crime/fellow lover of all things Disney, Jenn. She was immediately on the case and found us travel packages, dates, etc., because we don't know how long this window is going to be open with Trenton and we had better jump at the chance before he changes his mind. So, I am very excited to announce that we will be going to Disneyland March 1-3 ... whoo hoo! Wish us luck!

Primary - No Greater Calling

2009-01-07T10:13:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that, after umpteen years in Primary (15 in fact), I actually had the nerve to complain about it; because, since I was released from Primary two years ago, I have been yearning to get back, and it finally happened! Whoo Hoo! I have the distinct priviledge of teaching one of the CTR 8 classes. This has to be one of the funnest classes in Primary because this is the year that they can get baptized, and they are all so very excited. I love, love, love Primary and am thrilled with my new calling!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

Well, it's about time I started blogging again. There is so much that you all missed because of my neglect; but, 2009 is starting out to be a fantastic new year, and I am excited to share about our family again. First, I have to figure out how to get more than five pictures per post ... help, please?!

We had a fantastic Christmas this year. Brennen only had one meltdown the entire vacation, on Christmas Eve, but it only lasted about an hour and nobody got bit (at least not very hard!). During a typical holiday season, Brennen has about one meltdown per day. He used to not take to change very well and would freak when we started moving furniture around, bringing a tree into the house (crazy people that we are), dragging him to party after party (what mean parents), and making him open presents. It's tough to be Brennen!

Here we are on Christmas morning ... there is nothing better than Christmas morning hair. Brennen looked totally worked all Christmas day!

Trenton is the one who truly appreciates the whole Christmas experience ... videos, books, toys, songs ... everything about the holiday season just tickles him to the core!

We went to Holiday in the Park at Six Flags a few times between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It was absolutely freezing the first time we went since it was only open from 4-9 p.m., but the lights around the park were beautiful. The next time we went was after Christmas as it was open from 11-7, and it was much warmer.

These are my crazy boys showing their true colors. This is Brennen lately .. "Seriously, Mom, another picture?" Trenton gives me the "You can see my teeth, right, so just take the picture and let me run, already!"

We went to so many parties over Christmas, and either I would forget my camera or we would be running around so much that I truly didn't even have time to take my camera out of my bag and snap a picture. Hopefully, in the new year, the boys will slow down and become more photogenic. That is my New Year's resolution for them! Actually, my resolution should be for ME to slow down and not make them so anxious all the time. I wish I had a camera hat because I would love to take pictures of my boys when we are cuddling in bed, reading a story, things like that when life is slow and easy, and I can look into their eyes and see right through to their precious little souls. I love my precious angels so much and have enjoyed every single second of their vacation from school ... but I must admit the quiet calm today with them both back at school is simply divine!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

2008-07-06T18:54:00.001-07:00

I began the fourth of July festivities with a completely awesome two hour nap (thanks, Russ!). This was I am sure the reason behind my great mood that day. Russ and I took the boys and Grandma Betty up to my mom's to swim in the afternoon, and Wendy, Dennis, Rachel, and the dogs met us up there. The dads and kids swam while Wendy, Betty and I got dinner ready.
Everyone had fun up at my mom's and we totally stuffed ourselves with chicken, hamburger, sausage, corn on the cob, fruit salad and chips. Yes, Mom, we cleaned EVERYTHING up before we left!
Then, we headed back down the hill to our house for fireworks. This is I think Brennen's favorite holiday, and I can't believe I didn't get a decent picture of him. He was thoroughly happy the whole time we did fireworks, not melting down until the very end when he realized all the fireworks were gone. I am still working with the night vision setting on my camera, and most of the pictures of Brennen jumping/spinning around and being happy are totally blurry. Oh well, maybe next year!
My other son, Chicken Boy, watched the fireworks show from the window upstairs, since he hates the noise!

Lake Tahoe - Part II

2008-07-06T18:42:00.001-07:00

Last Tuesday, Russ and I took the boys up to Tahoe (thanks again, Mom, for the room!). We had to escape the smoke that totally envelops the Sacramento Valley lately. We had such a fun day of just family time. It's rare that the four of us can find something we all like to do!
Russ really stepped up and got down and dirty with the boys. They built sandcastles for a while (very hard to do with the Lake Tahoe sand which are really pebbles).
Trenton and I dug a hole because he kept jumping in another kid's hole and apparently ruining all his hard work. I must say, our hole was way better! And, yes, I had just watched the Today show the previous morning telling all us parents how dangerous it is to dig holes on the beach ... blah, blah, blah ... this was apparently a message for parents who DON'T watch their kids.
So, we had an amazing time at the beach, went back to our room to shower and change, took a walk around town, had a great dinner at Wolfgang Puck's Express (yes, even the kids ate there), then back to the hotel for more swimming in the HEAVILY cholorinated indoor pool. Then came the fun part ... bedtime. Trenton totally sounded like he was coughing up a lung for the hour before he finally fell asleep. Then, Brennen was up from 12:30 until 5:00 a.m. with such bad gas I felt so sorry for him. Luckily it wasn't the smelly kind. He just swallowed too much air or something that day because whenever he would roll over, he would either belch a bunch or fart a bunch. And, his stomach was making noises that no body should ever make. When we finally woke up that morning, Russell woke up with the aches and chills and was sick for the next few days. I am the only one who survived Tahoe unscathed!!! Whoo Hoo!

Whoo Hoo!

2008-06-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

Guess what the Foster's finally got?! Yeah! We got a trampoline! The boys were so excited when Russ and his brother Kevin started putting it up. Trenton was a huge help, as always. We also have an enclosure, but Russ will put that up when he gets home. Of course, the boys were up and out of the house jumping by 7:00 a.m. this morning!

Lake Tahoe

2008-06-21T09:26:00.001-07:00

My mom and I took the boys up to Lake Tahoe on Thursday after school, and we had so much fun. The water was freezing (as always), but the boys never care. They just jump right in and swim away! Crazy kids!
We spent several hours there on Thursday afternoon/evening, not leaving the beach until about 7:00. We stayed at the Embassy Suites (thanks Mom!) which was really nice.
Brennen was never closer than about 50 feet from us, since apparently Mom and Grandma aren't cool anymore ... who knew?! He would swim almost out to the buoys, and we were both terrified that one of us would have to actually get in the water and swim after him, but he thankfully always came back. I had to put in a picture of Brennen's "man boobies" and tummy roll. I think he is beginning to hit puberty a little early, either that or he is getting ready for another growth spurt! Can't believe he is already 5' tall at age 10!
And, look how tall my other baby is! Trenton is growing like crazy lately getting ready for 2nd grade. I think his goal is to be the tallest in the class by the first day of school! Anyway, we had a fabulous time for a 24 hour trip and got in plenty of swimming, sunning, playing in the sand, etc. on Thursday and Friday before we came home Friday afternoon. The boys had a melt-down of course when we had to leave ... but Mom surprised us by booking Russ and I and the boys a room in Tahoe for the July 1st, so we only have to wait 10 more days until we go back. THANKS, MOM!!!!!

Derrick's Baptism

2008-06-18T07:56:00.000-07:00

Trenton and I (along with Grandma Betty, Dennis, Wendy, and Rachel) flew to Arizona this weekend for my nephew Derrick's baptism. Derrick was so happy that day, and Randy did a beautiful job on Derrick's confirmation. I am so proud of him for making this decision. Baptisms are a little tough for me, though. I can't help but wish that someday my boys will be able to understand enough to make that decision; but, for now, I realize that we will have to keep pushing it back until they can make that important decision for themselves. I have faith that the Lord's work will be done one way or another. I am so lucky to have such righteous nephews (Derrick and Chase) that will make sure Brennen and Trenton's work will be done. We had such a fun weekend. I loved finally getting to see their house, which is beautiful. We swam for hours every day, which is what you do in Arizona apparently. You never quite know what 114 degrees feels like until you are actually in it! We saw Kung Fu Panda (very funny for the parents, too), went to Amazing Jake's Pizza (or something like that), and went to the Phoenix Zoo. I was pleasantly surprised at the zoo. It is so well laid out, and the animals are just so different from California zoo animals. Trenton went around the whole time with my camera taking pictures of all the animals.
All in all, we had a fabulous time (despite being sweaty all day and night), and the cousins were all sad to leave each other by Sunday night. Derrick asked so sweetly if we were coming back next weekend ... Sorry, Honey! We love you!

Rocky Dog

2008-06-12T18:24:00.000-07:00

We unfortunately had to say good-bye to Rocky Dog today. He was a wonderful dog who was always happy and loving despite the pain he has been in since he was a puppy. Our poor dog came to us after Jenn and Geoff broke him when he was six months old (just kidding). He has been through multiple surgeries, a dog psychiatrist, chronic ear problems, failing vision ... you name it, he's had it. And, through it all, he just always seems happy. This past year, though, without Moose has been hard on him and he has been deteriorating. Many of you remember that he cheated death on January 2nd when the storms blew out the power to the whole area (including the vet's office) and we had to reschedule his euthanasia appointment. But, the next day, he was happy and running around, so we couldn't in good conscience put him down when he was so lively!

We will remember Rocky for his unconditional love and kisses and patience with the boys, and Moose when he was a puppy. Thank you, Rocky, for being such a wonderful dog. We love you!

Our New Rooms

2008-05-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

My baby FINALLY has something to call his own. As a second child, Trenton rarely gets anything new ... usually just hand-me-downs from Brennen. But, a few months ago, he told me he wanted animals in his room, so my friend Kelly found this jungle safari quilt and pillows and we built the room around it. Trenton got to pick the wall colors himself (from a few different ones I had picked out beforehand). Of course, I wanted the lighter brown and the lighter green, but both he and Russ liked the darker colors. After my friend Karen pointed out "Why did you ask him if you didn't want his opinion?" and after my sister reminded me "He's not a baby anymore ... go with the darker colors", I caved and went with the colors he chose and ended up really liking it. Then, a couple weekends ago, we let him pick out his own furniture and it was delivered this last Saturday. Overall, he is extremely happy with his room. Now, we just need to find some pictures.

Then, after all that, Russ surprised me with a bedroom set for us! This picture totally does not do it justice. The bedroom set is so gorgeous, dark wood with ornate etchings ... I feel like a grown-up now! Story behind the story is that I have had the same bedroom set since 7th grade. We had just added onto our house in San Jose and my sister and I had radiculously large bedrooms (hers was 26x26 and mine was about 20x36). My grandparents had recently passed away, and I "inherited" their bedroom set. Well, I have had that same bedroom set ever since. Yea for us! Now, Brennen goes back and forth between our room and Trenton's room and then looks at me like I forgot his room. But, a couple years back, he was the one who got new paint and a new bedroom set. So, he will just have to wait!

Happy Birthday, Sissy!

2008-04-27T20:02:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my extremely talented sister, Jenn! I can't believe this is like the only recent picture I have of you (yes, I know it's from 4 years ago). For those of you who don't know her, my sister is absolutely the most amazing woman. She is the perfect wife and homemaker, an exceptional mother (I don't know how she has the energy to keep up with my three nephews!), and THE BEST sister and friend anyone could ever imagine! She is so creative, inventive, athletic, open-minded, generous, and the most fun person to be around. She seriously can do ANYTHING! I love you and miss you so much, Sissy, and can't wait to see you again this summer. Now, would you please answer any of my phone calls from today so I can wish you a happy birthday (for those counting, that would be FOUR!).

HAPPY 10TH BRENNEN!

2008-04-22T21:57:00.001-07:00

We had Brennen's birthday this year at American Powerhouse Trampoline and Tumbling. Everyone had a blast, of course. It was so much fun! All the kids were totally sweaty by the end of the party.

This was his new thing this year ... hiding his face whenever anyone sang to him.
Yeah! He finally likes to open presents!!!

HAPPY 10TH BIRTHDAY to my amazing little boy! I love you so very much Brennen. Thank you for being patient while Dad and I experimented with every single vitamin and mineral known to man (most of the time up to 20 in the morning and 20 in the evening), poking you with B12 shots every three days, chelation suppositories for months, gluten and casein free diet, blood draws every three months, doctors appointments, different creams and oils on your skin, far-infrared sauna, etc. And now that you have been off everything (except gluten free), you seem to be doing so much better. Go figure. I would like to think that all the biomedical treatments over the past year and a half at least got some of the bad stuff out!

You are such an inspiration to me. You work harder than anyone I know. You try and try and try to communicate, and I am so glad that you don't give up on us. We will get it eventually, I promise. I love the way your eyes light up when we do finally understand what you are saying. You are my absolute joy in life. Whenever I am having a bad day, you seem to instinctively know that I need a hug. I would love to spend every waking minute with you if I could. You truly know how to find fun in anything. I love you, B-man!

I THINK I MAY LOSE IT!

2008-04-21T16:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I have totally given up on blogging lately. Craziness has erupted at the Foster household and I can't gain control! We had the last of five surgeries (Trenton is NOT happy about having his tonsils out and is taking it out on everyone who sets foot in the house), Brennen turned 10 (can you believe it?), my house looks like a tornado swept through it, we are finalizing everything for the FEAT Night of Caring fundraiser next weekend, etc., etc., etc. Please stay tuned, and I promise to try to get my act together by May 1st!

HAPPY EASTER!

2008-03-27T12:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter, everyone! We had so much fun this Easter. Trenton and I dyed eggs together (and then I did some by myself because sometimes you just want to do things by yourself, right?).

Easter Morning. The kids were way spoiled by the bunny this year (I think the bunny kept forgetting to look in her closet to see what she already had for them!). Trenton woke up at 6 reminding us that the Easter Bunny had come, so he and I went downstairs and played for a couple hours. But, it was KILLING him that Brennen wasn't getting up, so he finally went up and dragged Brennen out of bed and downstairs to look at his basket. He looked, then went back upstairs to crawl in bed again. (Brennen needs a little more time in the morning to wake up!)

Aaaahh, gluten! Yes, we paid for it that night when he refused to go to sleep!

We had the rest of the Foster clan and Grandma Gayle over for Easter Brunch and egg hunt this year. When we were getting dressed for everyone to come over, Trenton didn't like his outfit (a very cute button-up shirt with a vest and nice shorts) and kept telling me "Oops, try again"; but, I told him that we were all dressing nicely for Easter brunch and to go show Daddy how cute he looked. So, he went downstairs, looked at Russ, went out back, jumped in the pool fully clothed, then turned around and told Russ, "Oops, Sorry!" So, as always, Trenton got his way and didn't have to wear a button-up shirt for Easter. Lesson learned!

more Easter pics

2008-03-27T12:39:00.000-07:00

Trenton's absolute favorite present from the Easter bunny was a fizzing dinosaur egg that you drop into water and it foams up and fizzes and when it's done you have all these dinosaur parts to put together.
Ready for the egg hunt! Except Brennen who did his egg hunt early (oops!). Trenton and Rachel ripped through the backyard like experts!

Easter Party

2008-03-27T12:27:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday, we had an Easter party at our house for some friends so we could at least have SOME fun during spring break. We had been home-bound since Brennen was still recuping from his tonsillectomy. But, this really brightened his mood having all the kids over. Once again, I am SOOOOOO sorry to every little munchkin Trenton pushed in the pool. If it makes you feel better, he is having his tonsils out in two weeks (payback?).
We had lots of activities for the kids ... cupcake/cookie decorating, egg dying, swimming, coloring and crafts, and eventually a bounce house (the original bounce house place cancelled my jump on accident but we were able to get someone else to bring out a bounce house).
I love this time of year in my backyard when everything is in bloom (a-a-a-choo!).
Holdyn and Trenton in the bounce house.
Brennen finally feeling better ... Yipee. Little did we know he was unfortunately developing an abscessed tooth, which meant another surgery yesterday. We got to keep the bounce house all afternoon and evening, as well as the next day too! The boys thought that was so much fun ... and I got more exercise than I have this whole year!

Alright, already!

2008-03-27T12:06:00.001-07:00

Okay ... I KNOW I have neglected my blog; but, come on, four kid surgeries in a month? With a fifth still scheduled for mid-April? Do you blame me? I can barely see through my sleep-deprived, tear streaked, puffy frog eyes to type. Yes, I do realize I type for a living, but at least I have been getting my work done! So, here is the quickie run down ... 1st pic is Trenton on Crazy Hair Day. Now, usually Trenton doesn't let ANYONE mess with his hair; but, he let me gel it up for Crazy Hair Day at school ... now that's not to say that he didn't get embarassed on the way to school and totally flatten it; but, at least I got a picture!

Yes, another turkey picture. This is the horrible, dreadful turkey that scared the living @*!% out of me a couple weeks ago. Trenton and I were cuddling one morning, minding our own business when I hear "knock, knock, knock" at our back sliding glass door. Well it freaked the heck out of me because our backyard backs up to an empty field and (thanks, Jenn) I am always worried that some nut job is going to hop the fence and come kill me and my family (I know, a little drastic, but that's how my mind works). Well, I hear "knock, knock, knock" again, and I finally gather the courage to go check and see who it is ... Yes, it was Mr. Tom Turkey wanting to play. I think he lost his flock (gaggle, whatever) and wanted a friend to play with. So, Trenton and I went out and "played" with him.
The Blue Angels were here for the Capital Air Show a couple weekends ago, which means four days of noise, noise, noise. But, it is so much fun to see all the different planes flying overhead (especially the Blue Angels). There are a few parts of the show in which the planes literally fly right through our neighborhood (we are only about a mile from the air strip). This was the only picture I was able to get where he is almost right over our neighbor's house. They go so fast. I got several pictures of just smoke because I missed the shot! They are absolutely amazing to watch.

Surgeries, surgeries, surgeries

2008-03-11T15:59:00.000-07:00

The day after surgery (looks like he has a wad of chew in his cheek!)
Yesterday (four days post-op) ... still swollen if you look closely, but much better today.
I took Brennen to the park yesterday because his doctor doesn't want him in any public places for at least five days after surgery so he doesn't pick up any wierd germs
He woke up a couple hours ago and wanted this felt coloring book he bought with the money Grandma Gayle gave him yesterday. Poor guy just doesn't understand what happened to him!

What a fun couple weeks we have had! Brennen had an oozing abscessed tooth that had to be removed on the 26th. Then, Trenton had a molar that was attached to the bone that had to be extracted on the 6th ... which didn't go quite as planned. The oral surgeon had a hard time putting him under, then the surgery was a bit more extensive than he thought and he had to break apart the tooth and drill it out in pieces, then Trenton woke up part way through the proceedure, ripped out his IV and they had a hard time starting another one but, when they did, they over-sedated him. Anyway, he is almost fine now, only to learn that he needs his tonsils out. Then, this morning, Brennen had his tonsils and adnoids out. Yikes! The surgery went VERY well, though. Now, we just have to deal with the painful recovery for the next several days ... I plan on keeping him pumped full of pain meds, though. Trenton's appt with the ENT is Monday, with surgery probably scheduled for the following week. Good news, though, by April we should be all healthy!

Uh Oh!

2008-03-05T09:57:00.000-08:00

Well, it appears that someone else likes my new camera as well. I went to preview pictures this morning and found several pictures of toys and, my favorite, somebody's mouth! Hey, if that is the only body part I have to worry about, I am a happy mom! Guess I need to find a new hiding place for my camera!

Brennen obviously did NOT wish to be photographed this day! He was busy playing in the pool ... yes, I did say in the pool. What do you mean it's not even spring? If the sun is out, his bathing suit is on!
Thank you so much, Aunt Jenn, for the I-pod and the bug habitat. He totally digs his I-pod and actually used the ear buds very well. He thinks he is VERY cool. (note all the bugs in the background getting ready to go into "bug jail". Heaven help the poor little tree frogs when they come to visit in about a month!

Whoo Hoo!

2008-03-02T16:15:00.000-08:00

Guess who finally got her new camera!!! Yepers, it's me! I went to a baptism yesterday morning and decided since I was kid-less, now would be the perfect time to redeem my Christmas gift certs to Ritz Camera. I LOOOOOOVE my new camera! AND it came with 15 lessons at Ritz Cameras AND a free printer (well, it was $100, but I have to send in the rebates to get my $100 back). There are so many different settings ... I can't wait to play and experiment with my new camera and take my lessons (my first lesson isn't until April, though). But then, just wait ... my pics may rival Jenn and Kierstin! My kids are going to be soooo done with me by the end of the week!

Billy Joel

2008-02-27T11:27:00.000-08:00

Russ and I went to see Billy Joel in concert last night, and I can't believe how incredibly good he still looks and sounds. He played for two and a half hours straight last night! He was absolutely AMAZING for the first hour and a half, and then you could tell he was starting to lose steam a bit. But, for his age, he is just incredible. Russ and I grew up on his music and we both just love him. It was a fun date night, too! Nevermind that I lost my mom-of-day award because Brennen had an abscessed tooth excised yesterday morning, had to be given an adult dose of anesthesia because the kiddie dose wasn't enough, and he couldn't even walk straight until 3:00 in the afternoon! Oh well, the sitter was there, and we were out the door by 6!

Moral of the story ... BILLY JOEL ROCKS!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BUBBA!

2008-02-24T10:37:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my baby is 7! Holy Cow ... where does the time go? He woke up Saturday morning just completely full of himself, knowing the day was all about him! He started the day jumping all over Russ and I in bed, then graduated to a french toast breakfast, then he and Daddy went to his friend Andrew's birthday party while I frantically cleaned up the house and decorated so it would be all ready for his JUNGLE EXPEDITION party when he got home. Uncle Kevin's friend made his birthday cake this year, and Trenton was so enthralled with it. He kept re-arranging the animals on the cake and insisted on putting his own candles on this year.
Grandma Gayle came over with a bundle of balloons for him (and about 50 things that I had forgotten to pick up before the party)!
All his friends came over and we had lunch consisting of beetle wings (chips), crocodile teeth (cut apples), live worms (cut up hot dogs), snake eggs (grapes), dried ants (craisins), and jungle juice (juice boxes, since the party had to be moved indoors due to weather). We went on a bug/frog/lizard/snake safari, collecting as many bugs as they could find. Thankfully, they were all plastic! Trenton insisted on opening presents almost as soon as his friends came over. We played more games, ate cake, and went CRAZY!
Here is Trenton cheating at the sticky tree frog game! Well, it was his party, so I guess he can make up his own rules! Everyone had a blast and we actually got cleaned up in record time (Thanks, Kelly!). HAPPY BIRTHDAY TRENTON!

Disney On Ice

2008-02-14T09:59:00.000-08:00

My sis-in-law, Wendy, and I took Trenton and my niece Rachel to Disney on Ice last night. It was so much fun! Some of the stunts, choreography, and sets were incredible. It was opening night, though, so we got to see more than a few skaters totally eat it, but the kids had a blast. This was the first time we sat up front, and Trenton was a little scared at some of the stuff being so close and the music was a bit too loud for him, but overall we had a really fun night. Trenton's favorite part was the 7 dwarfs. He also kept hitting my arm telling me to take a picture whenever the scene changed to a different princess story.

Then, being the totally on top of things mother I am, we got home at 10:30 p.m. and he still had to do his class Valentines because we had somewhat forgotten Valentines Day was today (nevermind that we bought them almost a month ago!).

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY, EVERYONE!

Eeewww!

2008-02-04T12:38:00.000-08:00

Alright all you moms out there ... would it be so terrible to permanently catheterize my boys? I swear to you, their aim gets worse EVERY DAY! Why yes, I have just spent the last hour cleaning bathrooms ... which has unfortunately become a daily occurrence because they JUST CAN'T CLEAN UP AFTER THEMSELVES! Brennen used to be really good about wiping down the toilet, but now I guess he just doesn't care. I caught Trenton last night peeing during a coughing fit, and I'm sure I don't have to draw you a picture of where everything was going. I have the Clorox bathroom wipes and tried to teach both boys to use that, but since then I have caught BOTH boys wiping their butts with them ... so I guess that is not the safest solution. What I need to know from you ... is catheterization really such a horrible proposition? Thanks for letting me vent!

This kind of reminds me of Kelli's work bathroom problem. Whatever happened with the girl sprinkler? Did anyone confront her?

My Boring Life ...

2008-01-20T19:07:00.000-08:00

To put an end to the harassment by my sister, I will finally blog. The only picture we have since January 1st is this one, taken by Trenton. He went rippin out the front door one morning last week (camera in hand of course ... what a good boy), so I quickly followed, wondering if the ice cream man was really here at 7:30 a.m. on a January morning. Nope, the turkeys are back ... reason for Brennen to stay indoors (he hates "big, flappy birds") and for Trenton to wreak a little havoc on then neighborhood. I think the size of the turkeys stopped Trenton in his tracks, but he did get a pretty good picture.

Poor little Brennen is on his second bout with strep throat. He went in on the 3rd and got Amoxicillin and was better after about 4 days, stayed on the antibiotic the full ten days with the last dose being last Monday night, but he woke up two days later not being able to swallow. So we went to the doctor again, and now he is on Omnicef. He ate for the first time tonight ... cheese pizza of course. But, the poor child still has such trouble swallowing that he can barely choke down any juice even. I think he has eaten less in the last three weeks combined than he usually does in a single day.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2008-01-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

For New Year's this year, Russ and I just took the boys to the park to get them out of the house to see if they remembered what the sun looked like. It has been so cold here lately that they literally just run outside for about a minute and then come back inside. But yesterday, the sun was out, it wasn't windy, and I think it got up to 50 degrees. I swear there are not many things better than spending time with your kids at the park. Brennen and I scootered around all the bike paths (Brennen got a new asphalt scooter for Christmas), and then the boys rolled down this huge hill over and over and over and over. Then, last night, we had friends over to play games and we did a few fireworks at night. I don't know about you, but 2007 went by way too fast. Does anyone have connections that might slow down 2008? My kids' childhood is literally flashing before my eyes! I need either a few more hours a day or a 9 day week. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

More Christmasing

2008-01-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

As in Brooks' family tradition, my mom and I and the boys met my Aunt Susan and cousins, Lindsay and Morgan, a couple days after Christmas for our annual lunch together. This year, we met in Vallejo so that Mom and I could take the boys across the street to Six Flags for a few hours afterward for their Holiday in the Park Celebration.

We had a great lunch at the Olive Garden, got the fast forward version of everyone's year, took a few pictures, then headed to Six Flags ... where (as Jenn has probably already guessed) Trenton proceeded to throw up. Yes, this makes a grand total of three times this year alone that my youngest has barfed all over Six Flags! After we clean him up, though, he is always rarin' to go! What a trouper!

Merry Christmas!

2008-01-01T13:31:00.000-08:00

We had such a wonderful Christmas this year. Both boys were totally in the Christmas spirit ... minimal fighting and they both were just overall "good". It's so much fun now that they actually like opening presents and are excited every time someone comes to the door. We had a little too much Christmasing, though, this year and I was TOTALLY done by Christmas. I started taking most of the decorations down on the 27th. Brennen actually pushed me away from the tree this year when I tried taking the ornaments off !!! We hope everyone else had a great Christmas!

Christmas pictures???

2007-12-16T19:57:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am going to have to start posting these because I am convinced I am never going to get a picture worthy of our Christmas card this year. My boys have to be the MOST DIFFICULT to get pictures of. But, we have been having a blast these past few weeks, despite being sick for the last two weeks and one day ... hopefully we are on the mend now.

Brennen and Trenton are TOTALLY in the Christmas spirit this year. We never know, since Brennen usually freaks out the minute we start re-arranging furniture, putting decorations up, and (Heaven forbid) put a tree in the house! "Don't you people know trees belong OUTSIDE!" We have been having so much fun going to Marine World for Holiday in the Park (yes, Trenton threw up four times before walking through the front gate, but he was fine after that) and going to various Christmas parties. We made gingerbread houses with Grandma Betty and drove around looking at Christmas lights last night.

And, of course, in between all this, I have been trying to take a picture of the boys for our Christmas card. In all fairness, it hasn't helped that they have been sick and I am sure do not want their pictures taken. So, I may be doing good to send out New Year's cards this year!

I hope everyone else is having a great holiday season!

MAUI pics

2007-12-07T11:27:00.000-08:00

MAUI pics

2007-12-07T11:22:00.000-08:00

FUN IN THE MAUI SUN!

2007-12-07T10:56:00.001-08:00

As you have probably heard (since we've been back now for two weeks), we had a FABULOUS time in Maui over Thanksgiving. The weather was perfect, the boys were almost perfect (a miraculous feat for them!), and we all had so much fun. I can't even begin to thank Jenn and Geoff enough for putting us up at the Grand Wailea. It is an absolultely beautiful resort and the kids loved the pools and slides.

We have decided that, if Brennen could grow fins and gills, he would seriously turn into a fish. He loves the water. It was fun (and frustrating) watching him go to the beach and not want to swim with us. He would take off down the beach and find a group of kids to swim with. I guess he is finally to the age where his parents aren't cool anymore (although I beg to differ). His favorite parts of the trip were swimming in Lahaina (sp?) where the waves were totally pounding and night swimming. As you all know, he likes to live life slightly on the edge!

Trenton had such a fun time whereever we went this trip, and his favorite thing was watching Chase and Caden skim board. He tried a few times but just didn't quite get it. Trenton's absolute favorite part of the trip was a shark that Grandma Kay bought him when she gave presents to all the kids at Thanksgiving dinner.

We had such a fun time with Grandma Gayle and Joanna, too. They were a huge help and took the boys a couple nights when we were there. Seriously, what would we do without Grandma? We love her so much and have such a fun time with her.

My sister is going to kill me for putting in the picture of her racing on the beach with Chase, but I just absolutely love it. It totally shows her personality. She can be all prim and proper most of the time, but she can also drop everything and get down and dirty with the kids. She is so much fun to be around. At least she can't yell at me for putting the picture of her halfway in a hole she was helping dig at the beach one day!

On a sad note, we probably never should have left Maui because at least one of us has been sick ever since. Brennen is home sick today, but hopefully that should be it since he was the last one to get it. Fingers crossed that it doesn't go back around again.

HALLOWEEN

2007-11-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

I finally remembered to put up Halloween pictures! We got home from school on Wednesday (yes from our apparently over the top P.C. school), and Trenton was just chompin at the bit to go out trick or treating. He had picked out a Stitch costume from Disney and I was going to put my Hawaiian dress on and go as a (much older) Lilo. But, he changed his mind at the last minute and went as Mater, another costume I bought just because it was only $8 on clearance there. Go figure ... they always want the most expensive, but play with the least expensive!

So, Trenton starts hovering around the front door starting around 5:30 with his trick or treat bag, but his friend, Alex, wasn't coming until 6:00. It was pure torture! Finally, up comes Alex and his two other friends (who are all between 9 and 11), and Trenton thought he was just all that trick-or-treating with the big kids. He had a fabulous time and got home, dumped his candy out, and kept saying "it's a candy ... and another candy ... and ANOTHER CANDY!" He was all excited until Mommy took one, then he gathered up all his candy, got a piece of paper and pencil, and proceeded to write down every single piece of candy he had in his bag! Little stinker. Sounds like something Auntie Jenn would do!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN???

2007-10-31T09:42:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is not my most favorite Halloween season to date. First of all, our new Activities Committee was called last Sunday and we had less than a week to prepare for Trunk or Treat. It went off without a hitch, but we still could have done things much differently and probably will next year. Also, my kids costumes didn't arrive until two days ago (not in time for Trunk or Treat). So, I got Brennen a shirt that said "This is My Costume" and Trenton went through the "pretend" box (Russ said boys can't have a "dress up" box!), and wanted to be a Dallas Cowboys football player. Honestly, who doesn't since they are finally doing well this year!

Then, I don't know if this is how it is everywhere, but none of the public schools around here allow kids to dress up for Halloween at school. COME ON!!! Do we really have to be that P.C. that we can't let kids dress up, have a parade, and heaven forbid a freakin' Halloween party at school? This is ridiculous, and probably started by some parent whose child ruined their $200, specially made and flown in from Paris, costume at school and couldn't trick-or-treat that night. It is really too much to say "dress like your favorite Disney character" or "no masks" or something like that? Nooooo, we have to ban Halloween altogether at school. This just bites! Okay, I can come down off my soap box now. As you can tell, my kids wore somewhat Halloweeney shirts to school today anyway. Just try to send them home! LET THE KIDS HAVE SOME FUN!!!!

My Boys

2007-10-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

I have been having such a ball with my boys lately. I have been trying to get all my work done while they are at school and then spending a couple hours after school each day with them. It continues to amaze me how incredibly different they are. Trenton, you can see the impishness in his eyes. You know he is always plotting his next move, how he can get a laugh out of the situation (which sometimes results in a time-out, but to him it's well worth it). Ask me why my pictures are blurry lately? Trenton will tell you how he took pictures under water. I can't believe my camera still works somewhat. Good thing Chrismas is right around the corner! And Brennen is just absolutely as sweet and clueless as can be. He totally lives in the moment, absolutely loves life, and is my go-to kid when I need kisses and cuddles. His speech is emerging so much lately (finally) and he always wants to sing songs with me (not Trenton). I love my boys so very much and, despite their challenges, cherish every single moment we have together.

My New Parenting Manual

2007-10-22T09:53:00.000-07:00

I am a total goob and have no time today to figure out how to flip this picture, but I LOVE THIS BOOK! I saw Jessica Seinfeld on The Today Show a couple weeks back, and almost immediatley bought this book. It's all about pureeing tons of veges to keep on hand and sneaking them into your kids foods. I now add about 3 T of pureed zucchini to the kids pizza and even added butternut squash to Trenton's mac-n-cheese without him knowing. I totally want to try her spinach brownie recipe next. For those of you whose kids have trouble with veges (mine are apparently allergic because they spaz out if they even see a cucumber!), I would totally recommend this book. It is SO EASY. You just spend an hour or so pureeing veges (I do it when my kids are at school so they can't see what I'm doing) and then just keep some in the frig and the rest in the freezer and just sneak it into stuff. LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT!

Our New Room

2007-10-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

"BEFORE"

"AFTER"

Okay, I guess it's time to start blogging again. Last week was crazy busy. Russ was gone for three days and I tore apart our room, painted, hung pictures, etc. while he was gone to surprise him. So, basically I did not have a minute to myself until Friday, and then ended up getting the flu. But, I am back in the land of (somewhat) normalcy! The boys and I had so much fun painting, and I love my room so much more now that I don't have white walls. Next purchase is some dark furniture, but I didn't want to do that on my own ... I couldn't even pick out the wall color myself (thanks, Dabo!). And, yes, as you will notice in the "after" picture, I did break a piece off my wood blinds - oops!

My "Other" Boys

2007-10-03T07:49:00.000-07:00

Here are my fabulous nephews, Chase, Caden, and Crew. I am so lucky to be their aunt! I was fortunate to get to see them last weekend for Chase's baptism, which was absolutely beautiful. My nephews are the best!

Chase is by far the most kind, compassionate, smart, and sensitive boy you will ever meet. He has the sweetest spirit and is accepting of everyone. He is so fun to be around and will make the best of any situation. He continually amazes me with his math facts and how well he is reading. He excells at every sport he plays. He is truly the most well-rounded child I know.

Caden is just a ball of energy. I love to play with Caden because you always get lots of hugs. He is awesome at sports and always has the cutest things to say. He is such a thinker and will totally call you on everything, so you have to be careful what you say around him. I love to get phone calls from Caden because he is so sneaky about it ... half the time I don't think Jenn even knows about them!

Crew is the best baby ever (except during the middle of the night, but I don't see him then!). He is so easy going and I love to hear him starting to talk and all the baby noises he makes. He loves his brothers so much and adores any and all attention bestowed upon him.

As you can tell, I absolutely adore my nephews. My sister has done a wonderful job raising them and instilling important values in them. She is such a fun mom! Unfortunately, I don't get to see them that often, but when I do we have so much fun. I love you, boys!

Go Chasers ... It's your birthday ...

2007-09-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

Happy 8th Birthday, Chase! You are halfway there to getting your driver's license! Where does the time go? You are such a talented, sweet, smart boy. I love hearing stories about how awesome you are in swimming, soccer, and everything else you go after. You are incredibly fun to be around. Thank you for being so patient and loving with Brennen and Trenton. They both love you so much, as do Russ and I. We hope you have the absolute best birthday ever!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DABO!

2007-09-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my dad. You are so smart and creative ... why didn't I get any of that? I think it skipped me and went right to Trenton. I love all your inventions and hope that the shovel strap seriously takes off. I can't wait to see your commercial! Hope you have a terrific birthday. I love you, Dabo!

HAPPY 60TH MOM!

2007-09-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

Happy 60th Birthday, Mom! I can't believe it ... you don't look a day over 59. Just kidding. I love you so much and am so appreciative of all you do to help me and the boys. You are such a kind, loving, and patient mom and grandma. You did a wonderful job raising Jenn and I (hee hee). I only hope I can be half as good a mom as you are. Thank you for all the wonderful things you have taught me. Above all, you taught me to always stick up for myself and value my self-worth. You are the strongest woman I know and I admire you in so many ways. I LOVE YOU, MOM!

Rain/Hail

2007-09-20T11:58:00.001-07:00

Well, you would have thought it was Christmas at my house yesterday. Trenton was playing outside after school, getting ready to swim, and it started sprinkling. He looked at me and started to come inside. I told him it was okay, that he could play outside ... it was only sprinkling. He thought that was so much fun ... until it started raining harder and he shot to the back of the yard to "his cave" (just a little place behind the pool that is covered by bushes and a big fig tree). Then, the thunder and lightning started and the clouds let loose. Trenton wasn't coming inside ... I found him in his cave talking to his animals, I'm sure telling them it was okay. So, I got Trenton back inside just in time for the hail to start ... and I mean SHEETS of hail. I have never seen it hail this hard. Trenton thought that was fabulous. Even Brennen came down very confused saying "Rain?" So I told him it was hail and we all watched from the door; and, when it was over, they went out and played again. What a nice free afternoon of fun!

On a much sadder note ... I finally got the calling I have ALWAYS wanted ... Activity Days (it usd to be Achievement Girls, but for some reason our stake, and probably others, have been told to rename it). I just went to our first activity last night, and we found out that this Sunday all our stake/ward boundaries are changing in the whole area. I just pray that my calling will transfer to our new ward!

Marine World

2007-09-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

My friend, Kelly, and I took her two girls, my two boys, my friend Alicia and her sister to Marine World Discovery Kingdom this weekend and had a blast. Now that the kids are in school again, we don't get to go there as often as THEY would like. Trenton had fun telling the other kids in line for rides that "WE ARE GOING TO DIE!" I think he might have scared a couple off! We had a good laugh, though. I can't believe summer is over! I might have to try some of Kelli's yummy pumpkin recipes I saw her her blog! Thanks, Kelli!

Lake Tahoe

2007-09-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Grandma Gayle treated the boys and I to a weekend in Lake Tahoe, and we had a fabulous time. All the boys cared about was swimming in the lake (which was freezing), but we also took a Gondola ride up the side of the mountain which was fun. Each day, Trenton took it upon himself to rid the beach of geese and ducks. So, anytime any geese would come onto the beach, he would swiftly chase them back into the lake and then stare them down.

My first blog ... how exciting

2007-09-13T20:36:00.001-07:00

Okay, so this is me and my boys. This is really just a test to see if I know how to do this. We will see if anyone can read this!