The Neuman News

Summertime 2010

2010-12-11T08:11:00.000-08:00

Dewars on the Fourth of July

Leigh Ann's 40th Birthday--Mardi Gras Theme!

Sam gets chickens

Pismo Beach Trip

Jake working with his pig Sir Francis Bacon

Matt graduates from the Sheriff's Academy

Movie time on a hot afternoon

Baby Love

A Weekend at Cheryle's Cabin in Sugarloaf

2010-07-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

Coming Home

2010-05-24T16:12:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that we have not posted here since Easter. So much has changed for us over the last few weeks and those changes have kept us so busy that I haven't had time to blog. So for those of you who are not aware, shortly after Easter we decided to move back home to Bakersfield. From the time we made this decision to moving was less than a month, so you can say it has been a bit of a whirlwind!

Many factors came together at once which caused us to make this decision. They are too many to list, but our decision really came down to wanting to simplify and enrich our lives. We wanted more time together and with our families that we love so much. It has become increasingly important to us to be available to our parents as they age, and be nearer our nieces and nephews as they grow. The opportunity arose for John to complete his degree, while working in a railroad job with a regular schedule and to also pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a pilot.

So all of this meant that we decided to move back to my parents house! Crazy to actually decide such a thing, when so many people today move back in with their parents only when they have no other choice. But we believe it will give our family the kind of life we really want. We are keeping our house in Flagstaff for now. But here in Bakersfield we can help my parents with the upkeep of their property, which is becoming more difficult for them and our boys will have time to learn from their grandparents vast wisdom. We want to create a place for our boys to grow and learn away from the craziness of the world. A place where they can learn everything from raising animals, and driving tractors, to collecting their own eggs and growing their own food. We wanted a more basic and simple life for all of us. A life that revolves around family. A life where three generations can happily live together, helping one another to grow and learn. So far it's become exactly what we hoped for.

Sam learning to hang the laundry on the line

Will enjoying a ride on the tractor

Frog boots and cowboy boots

Learning how the tractor works

Jake driving it for the first time by himself. What a feeling for a 12 year old!

To me this picture is perfection. My honey, in Wranglers and a cowboy hat, holding his boy. Who knew after 20 years he would find a way to make my heart flutter like I had just met him!

Jake in his new muck boots. He'll be getting a lot of use out of these when he is mucking his pig pens!

Will found the mud in the pasture!

Pop and Jake painting the building that will soon be our schoolhouse. A dream come true, my own little red schoolhouse!

Stay tuned...lots more adventures are coming our way!

A Blessed Easter Sunday

2010-04-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

Sleepy eyes awake to a basket of Easter joys!
Will said, "The Easter Bunny left this?? I love it!" He said it like Easter baskets and chocolate bunnies were brand new ideas. And then I realized to Will they are!
When you're 12 the bunny skips hot wheels and silly putty and just gives cash in the eggs. It made Jake really happy!

Sammy deciding what to eat first

Will found the golden egg!

Our little stinker

Uncle Tommy, Joe and Cheryle

Erin looking up in the trees for eggs

Will ditched the basket for a machine gun. His father's son.

Thomas, Grace and Jake

Erin and Ally take a break from hunting eggs to tell the cows "Happy Easter!"

Liz and her perfect little granddaughter

Sandy

Dad and Cheryle get ready to go

Ally kicks back

Will and Phil's girlfriend,Brittney. He loves her, and so do we!

Phil and Will

John being his silly self on the wagon ride

Ally

Good Friends!

Having a great time!

Alex
Ally giving Will some love!
Gran and Anna

Easter Preparations

2010-04-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

On Holy Thursday we had friends over to dye Easter eggs and decorate cupcakes for the homeless. We had a blast and even though there were lots of kids it was still pretty orderly. An Easter miracle!

Believe it or not, Will's fingers did come clean in the bath!

Erin in her new Easter dress. After our morning projects we went shopping for a princess dress. We also had a great time trying all the make-up on at Sephora. If you can't have a daughter it sure is good to have a goddaughter!

Trying to Fly

2010-03-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

Jake and Sam have been studying the Wright brothers and flight this semester and they have been helping John with this remote control plane that my dad gave them. Wednesday we decided to take it out for a whirl.
Will gets very excited as it races down the runway

But Will has better luck getting it in the air than John. As usual, the darn thing crashed!

Will was not happy to head home. He would have stayed all day! Maybe we have a future pilot?

2010-03-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

A Leprechaun left his snowy footprints and a trail of gold coins which led to his treasure!

A St. Paddy's Day breakfast. Green egg, shamrock toast and bacon. The leprechaun also turned our milk green. Will covered his eyes and yelled "Oh no! The leprechaun trickeded us!!"

Green milk and gold coins

Three crazy leprechauns!

A Quick Trip to Scottsdale

2010-03-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

We made a quick trip to Scottsdale last week for a Civil War Reenactment that Jake was going to be in. However, I messed up the date and we missed the reenactment, but we did get to enjoy a fabulous resort, The Scottsdale Fairmont Princess. They had a fishing lagoon that all the boys loved fishing in
Sam caught 10 fish, Jake caught eight

and Will caught one all by himself!

Will enjoying the hotel room

The view outside our balcony

The beautiful bar was also right outside our room--convenient!

Daddy and Will

2010-03-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Naked Cowboy

2010-03-26T09:56:00.000-07:00

Madorom Wine Release and Auction

2010-03-06T12:26:00.000-08:00

We were back home in Bakersfield last week for the annual MadoroM wine release and auction. Friends, Andy and Marissa Amador, hold a release of their current vintage each year in Bakersfield because they have so many fans there! They also generously include an auction at the close of the evening to benefit Small Miracles and Angioma Alliance. It is such a fun event; everyone has a great time. And as the wine flows, so does the love and generosity! This years auction raised over $117,000! The total from the last four years is approaching $400,000!! The funds raised in this auction have been absolutely essential to the success of Angioma Alliance's mission. Without MadoroM and the generosity of the donors at this event, the advances in research we are seeing today would not be possible.

Our family is forever grateful to everyone who donates to Angioma Alliance and because of these donations we are right at the edge of seeing a cure. Our donors have changed our lives. As I remarked in my speech Saturday night,

"Without the heroes in this room tonight my family's story would not have had this fortunate turn of events. You see my story has turned into our story. It is the story of how a community of caring people can directly change the future of two little boys. Just a few years ago I thought my story was one of adversity and misfortune. And it was, until so many of you entered the tale. Together we have rewritten the narrative and our story is now a story of hope. Hope conquering fear. And because of you not just my children, but so many other children will have the ability to write any story they can imagine for themselves--full of adventures and not limited by this illness."

I truly believe that because of everyone who has donated to Angioma Alliance and because of everyone who keeps our family in their prayers, Jake and Sam's future is going to look very different than we could have even hoped for when Jake was diagnosed, ten years ago. John and I just want to thank you from the very bottom of our hearts. Whether you have given $10 or $10,000, we are forever grateful for your generosity. Because together, we are changing the future of this illness one prayer and one dollar at a time!

Crates of Napa Valley MadoroM
Me with Congressman Kevin McCarthy. We used to work together for Cong. Thomas years ago, and now Kevin holds that seat! He generously came out and helped support our cause. He and Uniglobe Travel donated a Capitol Hill Experience that brought in $17,000!! And he is wearing our Angioma Alliance awareness pin.

My friend Leigh Ann who ran her bootie off running bids during the auction!

Mike Blom, the maker of this extraordinary wine!

My niece, Amanda and my mom

My sister-in-law, Liz and her friend Cheryle having a great time!

Andy and Marissa Amador the owners of MadoroM. Andy is holding the 18L of MadoroM cabernet sauvingon that they donated to the auction. These 18Ls have brought in tens of thousands over the last few years!

Andy Amador and Paula and Terry Maxwell. Paula and Terry own T.L. Maxwell's Restaraunt and Bar in Bakersfield. They donated a dinner experience where Terry will teach couples how to make each course. So fun!! And it brought in $3400!

All of the beautiful photographs were taken by my buddy, Anita Matejka. Please check out her work at http://www.anitamatejkaphotography.com/. You will be so glad you did!! Thanks Anita for all your hard work and everything you have done for Angioma Alliance!

Good News

2010-03-02T07:03:00.000-08:00

It has been a very busy week for us! Sam had been having some symptoms and we were afraid he may have had a bleed. He had a scan in Phoenix last week which showed no changes. Great news!

The very next day we left for Bakersfield for the wine auction we hold each year to benefit Angioma Alliance, there will be more to come on this later in the week, but I just had to let you know now that we raised over $117,000!!! We are overwhelmed by generosity! I think we may be the luckiest family on the planet!

Family Pictures

2010-03-02T06:25:00.000-08:00

My friend, Anita Matejka, world's best photographer (seriously, check out her work at http://www.anitamatejkaphotography.com) did some family photos in January when we were in Bakerfield for my mom's 75th b-day. Here are a few: I think this sums up our family pretty well!

That little one looks really sweet, but watch out he turns into a dinosaur or a monster at the drop of a hat!!

Will and Aaron. Cracks me up...as if Aaron wants that hat!

Fat Tuesday

2010-02-17T06:15:00.000-08:00

For some Christians today is Mardi Gras, others know it as Shrove Tuesday. Our family celebrates it as Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of the pentitential practices of Lent.

Sam and Bre get in the spirit!

In our family it is our tradition to go to my Aunt Dorothy's for filhoses (Portuguese donuts) on Fat Tuesday. It is Jake and Sam's favorite thing! The house is absolutely full of people and there are lots and lots of kids running around, eating fresh filhose for dinner. I have only missed two Fat Tuesday's since my boys have been born and both times I tried to make filhose for them. Both times, I have failed. They look good, they taste fine. But they are not the same light , crispy and sweet donuts my aunt turns out of her kitchen by the hundreds. I think next year, if we are not in Bakersfield, I am going to have to change our tradition up and make pancakes or something I know I can do!!

Will enjoyed licking all the powdered sugar off!

Lent 2010

2010-02-16T13:19:00.000-08:00

Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent in the liturgical calendar. On this day we head to church to receive ashes on our foreheads that remind us of our need for repentence, we fast and we abstain from meet. It is the beginning of a 40 day journey into prayer, penance and almsgiving. It is a walk through the desert, a time to empty ourselves so we can be truly filled by Him on Easter Sunday.

It is customary for Catholics to "give something up" during Lent as a sacrifice and a reminder of the great sacrifice that Jesus made for us. I've done this as long as I can remember. Some years I have been more intentional in my sacrifices than in others and those years have definitely brought the most spiritual growth and joy at Easter.

This years' sacrifice has been mulling around in my head for some time. Maybe even for many years. You see, if you know me very well, you know that I have a difficult time understanding why I was born into a life of affluence while others were born into poverty. Why I am fortunate to have a husband who can provide for all of our family's needs and most of our wants and other mothers must watch their children cry tears of hunger? Why do I live in 3600 square feet filled with love and laughter and others have no home and even worse, no love?

I have prayed about these questions of social justice for years. And I still don't know what God would have me do. We do the obvious, we give to charity, we volunteer, we have welcomed the poor into our home on occasion, but the truth is it just doesn't feel like enough.

John and I have discussed that if we truly believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ it means our life must look different from the rest of the world. And in some ways it does. We homeschool, we don't allow cable TV or satellite in our home, we try to open our door to those in need and we do our best to live the liturgical year. But the thing is, from the outside looking in, I would say our life looks pretty comfortable.

We have prayed for years wondering if God is calling us to do something big for him. Maybe adopt a child out of poverty, maybe go into the mission field? But the answer has always been, "no". We feel certain that God is calling us to tend to our apostolate right here, in our home, in Flagstaff. And we are learning to live the wise words of Mother Teresa, "You can do no great things, only small things with great love."

And then one day I stumbled on the following words from Tonia, at A Study in Brown. She writes,

"I have four children. When they woke up this morning, I kissed them and made them a good healthy breakfast. 30,000 other children died.

Americans spend 110 billion dollars a year on fast food.

39 billion dollars a year on their pets.

We are carrying over two trillion dollars in credit card and auto debt.

The disparity haunts me. How does a Christ follower reconcile the needs of the world with the realities of everyday life in an affluent nation? I just don't know. But we are going to spend a month trying to find out."

Her words stopped me in my tracks. I felt like I had said the very same thing time and time again. But what really got my attention was her plan. It is called Thirty Days of Nothing. Thirty days where you buy absolutely nothing that is not necessary to sustain life. Thirty days to detach ourselves from the habits of consumerism and materialism. Thirty days to empty ourselves so that He may fill us. This means no buying clothes, or books or toys. No eating out. No wine, no Diet Pepsi.

John and I decided that Lent would be a good time to give this plan a try. We are going to adapt Tonia's idea and extend it for the six weeks of Lent. So for our family it will be Forty Days of Nothing. We will keep track of the money we save and we will give it to the hungry. We will fast on Fridays (just John and I) so that we can truly understand the sufferings of the poor. And most importantly we will pray. We will pray that God will show us how we can use our lives to heal the sufferings in this world. We hope to learn the difference between a "need" and a "want" and discover where we can permanently cut back, so that we can permanently give more. I highly encourage you to take a look at Tonia's journal of her family's experience with Thirty Days of Nothing at http://thirtydaysofnothing.blogspot.com/

I am committing to keeping our blog updated with our experiences, in no small part, because I am sure I will need to be held accountable! And in the spirit of full disclosure we have a couple of prior commitments that require we spend money during the next six weeks. Sam is having an MRI and seeing his neurosurgeon in Phoenix and I am speaking at a fundraiser for Angioma Alliance which will require money for travel etc. But with these two exceptions we are going to try to find out how, as Ghandi said, we can "live simply, so that others may simply live."

We'll keep you posted.

Valentines Birthday

2010-02-15T20:40:00.001-08:00

Heart shaped pancakes for my little sweetie
I don't think there could be a luckier girl in the world. John and Sam made me this delicious dinner of filet mignon topped with bleu cheese, and lobster and asparagus. It was as good as it looked.
Really now, could there be a more beautiful sight? Two handsome men, chocolate covered strawberries and my favorite champagne. Oh, how I love my birthday!

Sam made these strawberries and they were fantastic! The only thing missing was my oldest boy. Did I mention that he stayed in Bakersfield with my parents? He won't be home until the first of March. I miss him so much my heart aches.

My Mom's 75th Birthday Party

2010-02-04T07:57:00.000-08:00

January 29th was my mom's 75th birthday. We had a small party at the Country Club. It was a fantastic party for an amazing lady! A picture of Mom when she was younger and the delicious cake. My dad told the story that when he took this picture in to be framed the man in the frame shop said, "Who is that movie star?" My dad said, "It's no movie star, it's the girl I'm going to marry." The man laughed and said, "Yeah, right!" Poor dad!! But lucky Dad, especially since he has been able to spend almost 57 years with that beautiful girl!

Amanda putting the finishing touches on the table
Mom and Dad
My nephews, Phil and Joe and my niece Jessica

Anna and Pop

Brad and Liz with a big bottle of our favorite Madorom. Yep, we drank the whole thing..in one night! It was fantastic as usual!

Mom with some of her closest friends, Margaret, Dorothy and Sandi

Amanda and Granny share a hug

Kim and Amanda

Matt, Amanda and baby Aaron

Mom cuts the cake--Will is in the back very excited, yelling, "Let's eat cake!!"

Grammy and baby Aaron

Aunt Cheryle gives Alex's baby a rub. We all are so excited for our new great niece to arrive!

John and me

Liz and Kim

Joe, charming the ladies, as usual

Cheryle and Liz

John and Uncle Kenny

Gracie gets a hug from Aunt Kim

MOA lovin' on Aaron

Mom and Kim

Mom and me

Granny with Jessica, Anna and Gracie

Mom with her brother Tom and his family, Andrea, Thomas and Alex

Mom with our family

Mom with her girls

Kim gives Gracie a dip!

My brother, me and our favorite wine!

Brad gave Mom this cookbook--the title is so true--she could have written it!

Sewing

2010-02-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

A while back, our friends, Ryan and Michele, gave us a sewing machine that was Ryan's mothers. Sam has been wanting to learn to sew for a long time now, but I could never fit the sewing machine in the car to get it back to Flagstaff. This trip Sam had plenty of time to learn to sew. Luckily, Aunt Kim was able to spend time with him teaching him everything from how to thread the bobbin, to making a quilt. (Which is a good thing because I don't even know how to turn the thing on!) He worked very hard and ended up with a beautiful quilt that he designed and made himself. Ryan's mother would be so pleased that he is putting her machine to such good use! And his great grandmother and Aunt Nola would be tickled as well! Good work Sammy!

Sam and Aunt Kim with the finished product

Riding with Phil

2010-02-04T07:40:00.000-08:00

Fun in Bakersfield

2010-02-04T07:29:00.000-08:00

Pop feeding cows
Will wanted in the pasture with those horses!

Sam posing as a deer

Jake and Deets

Will and the cows

Giving water to the horses

John cleaning up the saddles

Taking Will for a ride

A Trip to Fresno

2010-02-04T06:58:00.000-08:00

We have been in California for the last two and one half weeks. We split our time between Fresno and Bakersfield where we had all kinds of adventures. The best part is that we missed the third largest snow storm in Flagstaff history. We returned to almost 5 feet of snow on the ground, but we have wonderful neighbors and friends who had our drive way shoveled and waiting for us to pull in! Here are some of our pictures from Fresno:

Will at our favorite park ever, Bear Park. It's really called Oso de Oro, but the boys named it Bear Park when they were little. It has everything a kid could ever dream of in a park and more. If you are ever in Fresno check it out!
A swing from big brother

Chasing big brother!

Daddy took us on a tour of the National Guard Base where he served for 18 years. Will is finally the boy he was waiting for--he loves jets too!!

Four of us in front of an F-16. Sam decided to skip the base and stay home to have a WII competition with Grandma and Grandpa!

Will being silly in Grandma's kitchen sink. Grandma gave him a bath here each night and now everytime he passes a sink he says, "Take bath?"

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T06:17:00.000-08:00

A New Years Kiss
Ally and Will holding hands

Christmas Day

2010-01-05T17:52:00.000-08:00

Sleepy boys waiting to open their presents
Will helping Pop open his gift and enjoying a donut that St. Nicholas left in his stocking

This year, instead of having a gift exchange, our family decided to have a gingerbread house decorating contest. Jessica, Gracie and Will were a team.

Anna, Amanda and Aaron were a team

Some of the decorating goodies

Amanda and Anna made Max, from the Grinch

Will eating frosting from Jessica's finger

Anna working on their Whoville village

Phillip, Jake and Sam were a team and made a beautiful church

Anna and Amanda and Aaron's Whoville

Jessica, Grace, and Will's creation

Kim and Cheryle were the judges

The boys were the winners!!!

The Best Day Ever

2010-01-05T17:32:00.000-08:00

Our friends, the Hardy's, invited us over for an amazing day of fun. The kids had goat rides, horse rides and even got to ride their REALLY high zip line. Everyone thought it was better than a day at Disneyland. It was even more wonderful because it was spent with such generous and special friends like Jana, Skipper and Melissa! Riding the goats

Aaron checking everyone out

Will was not interested in riding in that cart. He wanted to ride the goat!

Jake and Aaron in the goat cart

Will riding Chip. Riding this horse made him the happiest, most content little boy ever!

Aaron had a turn on the horse

Lawrence and Sam getting their helmets on for their turn on the zipline

Sammy way up in the air

Lawrence after his ride. He had a great time!!!

Jessica's Birthday Party

2010-01-03T17:45:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Jessica's birthday December 21st with a trip to Moo Creamery, a fabulous restaraunt and ice cream shop in Bakersfield. Afterwards we went to the California Living Museum (CALM) to look at their amazing display of Christmas lights. They had ice cream cones just for babies!
The birthday girl

Will looking at the lights

Will and Aaron taking a ride in Aarons awesome new wheels!

Aaron on his daddy's shoulders

Sammy on a snowflake

Sam and Lawrence tried to steal the babies' ride

Sam and Lawrence

Will and Matt

Aaron and Grammy

Feast of St. Lucy

2010-01-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

December 13th is the feast of our patron saint, St. Lucy. She is the patron saint against hemorrhages. She became even more special to us when my great nephew, Aaron, was diagnosed with glaucoma, because her name means light and she is also the patron saint of the blind. Many prayers were offered and St. Lucy proved to be a powerful intercessor because now Aaron has great eyesight and the clearest most beautiful blue eyes you could ever imagine. Needless to say we love St. Lucy and we love to make her yummy bread too! The bread is made in the shape of a wreath and topped with candles to symbolize the wreaths scandinavian girls wear on St. Lucy's feast. The bread is filled with lots of delicious butter, cinnamon and orange zest and frosted with an orange glaze. Delish!
Jake and Sam lit the candles and then we said a prayer and asked St. Lucy to take our prayers for good health and good eyesight straight to Jesus!

Then the boys blew out the candles...

and ate almost the entire loaf of bread!

Our First Blizzard

2010-01-03T17:08:00.000-08:00

December 7th brought us our first real Flagstaff Blizzard. It was a doozey! We got two feet of snow in less than 24 hours, accompanied by 30-45 mile per hour winds! It was enough for ADOT to close the highway that John needs to travel home from work. Fortunately he was able to hop off the train in Flagstaff and a friend braved the conditions to bring him home to us. Will and I watched in the early morning hours as John walked up the hill to our house. He was sinking in the snow up to his thighs! Boy were we glad when he was inside, warming by the fire and our whole family was safe and sound together. Dad built Will a snow tunnel
Will gets a ride in his new sled
Nobody is too young to shovel around here!

Getting hit with a snowball is fun

Throwing a snowball is better!

Jake taking a break from shoveling

It's pretty deep!

These two guys moved a lot of snow!!

Caroling Day

2009-12-08T17:57:00.000-08:00

On Saturday Dad hooked up the horses and wagon again for caroling rides around Cheryle's neighborhood. We have done this for several years now, but we missed last year due to rain. It was so fun to have family and friends together for this celebration.

Jessica, Anna and Grace
Silly Grace

Anna and her boyfriend Tyler. He is great! So is she!

Sandi and her grandkids!

Ready for caroling

Pop and Amanda

Pop and my cousin Stephanie and her kids, Olivia, Catherine and Luke. We missed Joseph!

Will playing in the flower beds

Jake and Ronan

Uncle Kenny, Olivia and Luke

My mom and aunties

Ally

Aaron sporting a super cool hat!

This was an especially fun day filled with laughter and family and friends. Actually it was an especially wonderful five days at home. Thanks Dad, Cheryle, Amanda and Matt for all your hard work that made it happen. Can't wait to be home for Christmas soon!!!

Parade Day

2009-12-08T17:16:00.000-08:00

Will was happy to wake up to his new friend George

Amanda making the signs for the parade

Aaron just being his cute self!

Aaron with his godmothers Gracie and Anna

Only a Granny would let a toddler stir the hot chocolate...

and drink it from the spoon! Lucky baby!

Pop, Will and Joe get the horses going

My sister-in-law, Liz and niece Danielle riding in the wagon

My sister Kim holding Aaron who is all cowboyed up for the parade!

My nephew and godson, Phillip

Sam, Alex and Jake. They were supposed to be waving those candy canes and saying Merry Christmas, but they immediately turned them into swords! Sigh... My sister, Cheryle and cousin, Keith

Cheryle got cleanup duty.

Everyone on the wagon that Cheryle and Amanda decorated so cute!

Amanda, Kim and Aaron, who had had enough fun!

The wagon going under the TV lights. The kids were so excited to see themselves on tv! At the rear are Amanda and Cheryle carrying the "poop wagon". We thought we had a great system of tying the little wagon to the big wagon to put the horse poop in--but when Dad left Cheryle standing holding a shovel of poo literally, Amanda decided to pull the wagon for her. It was ok though, the crowd cheered Cheryle as she ran to catch up to us carrying her poop shovel! Jake putting away the jingle bells after a night of fun!

Surprise!

2009-12-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

We flew home to Bakersfield December 2nd to surprise my dad. He was putting his draft horses and wagon in the Christmas parade, but was wishing his little grandsons could ride along in the parade. So as his Christmas present, my sister sent airline tickets for us to all come home and surprise him. Only dad surprised us! He showed up at Cheryle's door about 45 minutes after we arrived. Oh well! It all worked out and we still surprised him. Plus we got one extra day to spend with him! Jake and Will sitting on the wagon while Pop ties it down.
Will helping Pop work. This little boy loves his grandfathers! Both Oompa (John's Dad) and Pop are his favorite people. He was very excited to work and kept saying, "Pop, boots, hat, work!"
Aaron in his wagon.

Will pulling Aaron

Pockets!

2009-11-29T18:21:00.000-08:00

Will discovered that his pants had pockets. Boy was he impressed with this seemingly minor detail! Then Grandma showed him that you can keep money in your pockets. Wow! He couldn't stop saying, "Money! Money! Pockets!" Yesterday morning he woke up at 5 am and I put him in bed between John and me hoping he would fall asleep. He just kept chattering away, until I said, "Will, I'll give you a dollar if you go back to sleep." He said, "Dollar? Money? Okaaaaay!" It's great to have a way to bribe him. Thanks Grandma!

Thanksgiving Weekend

2009-11-29T17:55:00.000-08:00

Our family shared a perfect Thanksgiving weekend with John's parents and our nephew, Lawrence. The Thanksgiving feast was great, and it was wonderful to reflect together on how much we have to be grateful for, especially for the time to be together. John reads to us from the Bible

Prayers of gratitude Saturday we got ready for the start of Advent on Sunday by decorating our tree. Lawrence helped John get the star on the top.
The boys enjoyed hot chocolate by the fire and watched the snow fall outside. This morning we awoke to a peaceful white world--until the boys ran outside for a snowball fight! It was a perfect weekend and a beautiful start to Advent.

Stuffing Day!

2009-11-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

In case anyone may have forgotten from last year, Stuffing Making Day is my FAVORITE day of the year! When I was little all the women got together on the night before Thanksgiving and made my godmother's Portuguese stuffing. I remember those days full of cooking, laughing and togetherness and my heart is full. Last year was the first year that I had no female family members to make stuffing with, so I enlisted the help of my men. It was so successful that we did it again this year and they were tons of help! The big news is that for the first time we did not make Aunt Betty's Portuguese Stuffing, instead we made this recipe http://http//thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/11/stuffing_dressing_my_favorite_thanksgiving_food/

and boy is it delicious! I feel like I am betraying my godmother, but I 'm going to have to say, it's the best stuffing ever! Can't wait to eat it on Turkey Day! Sam chops the rosemary

Jake chops the onions and celery

Will has his first sip of sparkling cider...yum!

Two little turkeys browning the onions

What a goofy boy!

John made Sam laugh so hard he blew his sparkling cider out his nose!

This is where we post our blessings as we think of them throughout November.

It is good to be reminded of how abundant they are.

Bedtime stories read by big brother. What could be sweeter?

Jake's Big Day

2009-11-20T14:42:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday we went to the American Heritage Festival in Phoenix to celebrate Jake's birthday. He counted down the days to this event and it did not disappoint. They had re-enactors from the Revolutionary War through Vietnam and they held battles from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. There were also interactive exhibits from many different historical periods. Jake was in his element! Needless to say, we left the festival with the necessary paperwork for Jake to become a re-enactor. The problem is what era...last week he only cared about the Civil War...this weekend he is focused on WWII again!

Will loved the canons...he didn't even want the ear protection!

Jake and President Lincoln

Mr. Lincoln gave will a copy of his portrait...on a penny. We didn't have the heart to tell the President that it's not okay for babies to have pennies.

Jake questions this Revolutionary War soldier about his flintlock rifle.

This family was too cute. The little girl playing with her corn husk doll was darling!

This little Confederate Soldier melted my heart.

And girls in sun bonnets...texting the old fashioned way.

I'm dying with all these cute kids. I guess it will be fun to see my boys in these little get ups as well!

Our Fifteen Minutes of Fame

2009-11-13T10:39:00.000-08:00

Here is the video clip of the Arizona Highways TV show we were on. I'll just say it now, I look awful! Ugh! We had been hiking, so I have no makeup, my hair is awful--and of course I end up on TV! But John and the kids look cute and Lockett Meadow is gorgeous!

Unfortunately, they cut the scene I told you about earlier where Sam was waving his bayonett. I can't imagine why! So if you have an extra three minutes check it out:

http://www.azcentral.com/video/#/Arizona+Autumn/49825689001

Friends

2009-11-13T09:44:00.000-08:00

Last weekend our friends Connie and Julia visited from Virginia. Connie founded and heads up Angioma Alliance. Connie's daughter, Julia, has had four brain surgeries, just like Sam. They have only had three opportunities to visit with eachother, but Sam and Julia definitely have a connection. It's good that they have a friend who can understand, even if they choose not to talk about their illness and just play pretend or video games. Just like kids should!

Jake is 12!!

2009-11-13T09:37:00.000-08:00

Jake turned twelve November 7th. He is changing so much--where has our funny baby gone? He is growing into a funny, caring and smart young man. We can't wait to see what comes next with Jake, he always keeps us on our toes! He requested a Civil War cake two days before his birthday. This was the best I could do on short notice!
He was off to play with his friends and wouldn't even hold still so I could get a picture in front of this beautiful sunset. Kids...don't they know what's important?

Halloween

2009-11-13T06:21:00.000-08:00

Here are Jake and Sam before we went to Downtown Flagstaff for the Halloween Party. As you can see Jake wore his WWII uniform and Sam was the Phantom of the Opera. Will decided he was not going to wear his costume. He had fun just watching everyone else!

It Snowed!

2009-10-28T20:56:00.000-07:00

It snowed today! Not a lot, but enough to make everything look pretty. The real news is that it is cold here! The hight today was 31 and tonight it is supposed to be in the low teens. God must know that I am not quite ready for winter to be here yet, it is supposed to be 60 degrees by Saturday. Also, you may notice that Will now refuses to look at me when I have a camera in my hands. I hope you'll be able to see his eyes again soon!

Our History Buff

2009-10-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

Jake has a real love for history. It is definitely his favorite subject in school. His favorite era is WWII and lately he has been thinking about trying to get involved with reenactments. So you can imagine his delight when he found this WWII uniform at the Army Navy Surplus for only $13.00! Fortunately, that was just how much money he had to his name. He bought it on Monday; it hasn't come off since.

One More Autumn Pic

2009-10-25T12:49:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share yet another picture of Will. And this may be our last picture with fall colors for the year. Snow is predicted for next week. If it is true it will be the earliest snow we have had since we moved here...maybe we will be trick -or -treating in the snow. Yikes!

2009-10-24T06:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we got another cord of firewood. As you can see, all of the boys were a big help taking it down the hill to the back of the house and stacking it up. It was a lot of work, but we all had fun! Now we are really ready for winter!

"Yes! I conquered that climb!"

Sam wishes he could use the wheel barrow too!

Jake did a great job of getting the wood stacked.

Aren't I blessed to have all these handsome men to get us ready for winter??

Happy Oktoberfest!

2009-10-17T07:35:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a few people over to celebrate the arrival of autumn. Will was our baby Oktoberfest! We tasted German beers, ate brats, homemade pretzels, delicious German apple cake, and Sam made caramel apples. We were going to carve pumpkins as well, but we ran out of time, so now we have an excuse to have another autumn party! Hope you are all enjoying the season!

Another Day at Lockett Meadow

2009-10-14T13:55:00.000-07:00

Monday we headed back up to Lockett Meadow for our day of faux camping. Will helped make the campfire,
he and Sam helped set up the tent,
and he even chopped kindling!
We saw this lone aspen tree surrounded by pines
on our hike.

Will promptly swiped my walking stick!

Silly baby!

Sam making a walking stick of his own.

Three boys off for a walk

Jake played music for us around the campfire. Unfortunately, we had to leave earlier than we hoped because a bitterly cold wind was sweeping across the meadow. Not even the campfire could keep us warm!

At the very end of our day we were interviewed by Arizona Highways TV show. It's scheduled to air on Saturday. It should be a hoot, actually, it's a fairly typical depiction of our family. We are sitting under some lovely aspens being interviewed about the beautiful fall colors, and I hear John talking over me, "Jake, Sam stop it!" Afterwards, I asked why he was scolding the boys during the interview, and he said that while I was talking, Sam had picked up a bayonet and was waiving it around for the camera. Great...maybe we will end up on the cutting room floor! That's our boys for you!

An Afternoon at Lockett Meadow

2009-10-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Lockett Meadow is our favorite place to hang out and soak up all the beautiful golden Aspen leaves. It's really amazing, and it is only about thirty minutes from our house. It makes for a perfect afternoon getaway! The reflection of the mountain in the water above, took our breath away.

Will's mean bear face. He likes to be a bear a lot--he was a bear most of this afternoon, in fact. He may not look really scary in this picture, but wait until you hear him roar!

Will took off on a log by himself. Pretty good, I think, for a two year old!

Being silly in the car window!

I love these pictures of John on the outside and Will inside the car...

We had so much fun we decided that we are going to go back next week. We thought about camping, but decided that the nights are just too cold for Will. We hope to get up to the meadow early in the morning and leave after dark. We will pretend to be camping, but sleep in our own warm beds!!

Monday Morning

2009-10-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Will's Very Hungry Caterpillar Birthday Party

2009-10-11T07:48:00.001-07:00

Will's favorite book is A Very Hungry Caterpillar, so we chose the fuzzy little guy as the theme for his 2nd birthday party! We had a caterpillar made of balloons, and Amanda painted a really fantastic mural with items from the book for our table covering. I never knew she was such a great artist!
Bre made another amazing cake for Will. Keep in mind, that not only was Bre talented enough to make these cakes, she did them back to back. Sam's birthday was Saturday night and Will's was Sunday morning! Thanks Bre!

YUM!

Pop, Gran, Aunt Kim and Uncle Rick got Will this animatronic dinosaur. He LOVES it. It interacts with you and you can feed it, among other things, but Will really likes to feed it! When it is full it burps. Totally a boy thing!

Will figured out the present opening pretty quick!

Grandma and Grandpa got Will this really cool car that he absolutely loves. He wants to play with it all of the time, and luckily it plays really loud techno music. I'm sure he will want to take this along next time he goes to Grandma's house!

A singing Sponge Bob card from the Flemings was a major hit!

It was a fun day!

Sam's Movie Birthday Party

2009-10-11T07:36:00.000-07:00

Sam requested a movie theme party for his birthday. We played movie trivia and name that tune, and the kids won "money" which they could use to buy popcorn, sodas and candy during the movie. We also served an assortment of theater food for dinner...hot dogs and nachos. Sam loved it! The table for the party.

A red carpet led the way to the party and John even made a marquee and a concessions stand

This is the amazing cake that, our friend, Bre made for Sam

A close up of the cake. It was AWESOME!

Sam and his friend Erica.

A Drive to Bill Williams Mountain

2009-10-11T07:23:00.001-07:00

Will and Pop This is where Will gets his love of boots. All weekend he would say, "Pop, hat, booooots!"

Matt and Aaron

Aaron flying in the air!

Jake and his Aunt Kim

Aaron, seconds before he fell off this rock. Oops!

There was a big fire raging, and Pop and Will are checking out the smoke.

On a clear day this spot would be really amazing because you can see all the way to the Grand Canyon to the North and Oak Creek Canyon to the south. Unfortunately, it was not a clear day! But we did get to see three dear and a bear cub! Also, Will learned to tell his first fish story. When he was telling Amanda that he saw the bear, he said, "OOOh bear, teeth, mean." I said, "It was just a baby" and he firmly replied,
"No, bear BIG!"

Sam is 10!

2009-10-11T07:19:00.000-07:00

October 1st was Sam's 10th birthday! It was a great day, especially because Gran, Pop, Aunt Kim, Amanda, Matt and Aaron all came from California to help celebrate.

In honor of turning double digits I asked Sam to make a Top 10 list for his 10th year. Here it is...

Sam's Top 10

10. Jumping off of rocks

9. My Family

8. Sleeping in bed with Mom, when Dad goes to work

7. Birthday Parties (especially mine!)

6. Cuddling with my mom

5. My cat

4. Math

3. My friends

2. Video games

and Number One.......

Legos!!!!

Autumn has Arrived

2009-09-29T22:08:00.000-07:00

The mornings are chilly and the leaves have turned. Pumpkin and ginger are reigning in our kitchen. We got our firewood on Sunday, and Neumania (8 crazy nights of Neuman Family birthdays) begins on Thursday. As I have said before, this is my favorite time of year. The beauty of God's creation astounds me, and since all my babies were born in the Fall, I am filled with profoundly happy memories this season.

But this also seems to be the season of crisis for our family. Four autumns have included a brain surgery for Sam. And while this year we have only signs of excellent health, every so often, out of the blue, I get a lump in my throat or tears fill my eyes. At first I am confused by my shifting emotions and then I remember why.

When I think of carving pumpkins last year, or smell the gingerbread tea brewing and pumpkin muffins baking, I realize that last year when I experienced these things, fear for my precious child hung heavy in the air, like the smoke from the fireplaces. And yet, the sadness doesn't last long. It lasts just long enough to remember. It makes me slow down and take notice, even when I am rushed or tired. It reminds me to be grateful, for every laugh, every smile and every, "I love you Mom." These sudden memories remind me that these are good times, and I am so very blessed.

So while I may feel a tinge of fear or sadness from time to time, what God has really given me is a gift. I know how blessed we are, and every moment I am thankful. And while the tears sometimes catch me by surprise, I can't think of any way I would rather spend this season, than with a heart full of gratitude.

A Fun Afternoon

2009-09-29T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today, after school, we went out target shooting. It was a beautiful day, full of adventure and fun. Will really enjoys hugging and loving on his brothers. Jake and Sam are learning early the meaning of "Love Hurts."

Sam conquered this mountain and then christened it "Loose Rock"

Jake had to conquer it as well. They felt very tall and had a great view of the canyon we were in.

Sam's Latest Creation

2009-09-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

Girl with pig tails and roller skates.
(I love the flip on the ends of her hair!)

Hair Cuts

2009-09-29T21:42:00.000-07:00

I have become somewhat tired of laying out a small fortune everytime the boys need a haircut. So I decided, "How hard can it be to cut a boys hair?" I watched a Youtube video and after a little practice I was pretty happy with their hair. It's not their best haircut they have ever had, but it is far from their worst. John thought this was a great idea for the boys, but not for him. After seeing Jake and Sam's hair, he decided to give me a chance. I didn't get a picture, but it's pretty darned good, if I do say so myself! Now, Will, on the other hand...well, let's just say toddlers move--a lot. So, no pictures!

WWII Reenactment and Pizza Night

2009-09-29T21:09:00.001-07:00

This weekend we went to a WWII reenactment. John and Jake are huge WWII buffs and Sam, Will and I went along for the ride. We all ended up having a great time. The people were so generous and knowledgable. We all learned something new. (Well except maybe John, he already knows everything about WWII! Seriously.) This man spent a lot of time with us, answering each of the kids' questions thoroughly. Doesn't he look really authentic?
Will thought it was great!

Sam found out that rifle was REALLY heavy!

Have you ever seen a happier dad? He has three boys to share his interests and hobbies. Life is good!

When we got home e decided to make our own pizzas from the bread dough that Sammy and I make and keep in the fridge.

Will was very serious about rolling out the dough.

Looks like John could always get a second job as a pizza tosser!

The final product. It was delicious!

First Day of School and Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary

2009-09-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

September 8th was our first day of school as well as the birthday of the Blessed Mother. We had a great first day of school and afterward we enjoyed a little birthday celebration for Mary.

Will was really glad we had cake!

Whose Been Eating our Cat's Food

2009-09-05T12:10:00.000-07:00

This little guy and his merry band of brothers have been sneaking into our garage at night. I wondered why the cats' were eating so much food! One night I went out to get something and I saw a racoon and gasped! Then they started coming out from all over the place! The little bandits were calmly nosing through our belongings. The cats were hiding under a shelf shaking in their fur! The racoons; however, were not afraid of us at all. They just looked up as if to say, "Aaah, at least we meet!"

On a sad note, our sweet kitty Baghera was hit by a car last week and died. Sam really misses him, but the mice will be happy. Hopefully Maple will step up and take over where Baghera left off.

The Fruits of Our Labors

2009-09-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

We've been enjoying our "harvest" lately. Our tomatoes and swiss chard are wonderful! But take it from me, even the tiniest bite of that cayenne chile, will kill you! It actually made my tongue swell--and I like hot food!

Peek a Boo!

2009-09-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

Peek a Boo!

Saturday Morning

2009-09-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

Will watching cartoons in Mom and Dad's bed
mmmm...pumpkin donuts

Autumn is definitely in the air in Flagstaff. I can't wait! This is by far my favorite time of year. I love everything Fall. The colors, the smells, the tastes and especially Back to School. School in Arizona started August 14th!! But not the Neuman Homeschool. We are starting the day after Labor Day. I just don't believe that school should start until the mornings are crisp and a few leaves are starting to change. We are having a very mellow weekend since it is the official last weekend of vacation. The boys are in their jammies watching cartoons in bed and I made pumpkin donuts to get everyone in an Autumn frame of mind. I'll spend the rest of today finishing up lesson plans and getting our classroom ready for Tuesday. I hope everyone has a great Labor Day weekend, and that Fall begins to show itself at your house soon!

Fun at the Fair

2009-09-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

It's fair time! Everyone got on their boots for a day of fun!
Will really loved riding the pony. Her name was Vicky, and he did NOT want to get off. He kept saying more, more, ONE more!!
Walking down the bleachers all by himself! His favorite way to do everything these days! I should also tell you that Will is obsessed with those boots. They are the first thing he asks for every morning and at night he doesn't want me to take them off for bed. He thinks boots are a wardrobe staple; they go with anything from jeans and overalls to shorts and pajamas. I think his favorite ensemble though, is just boots and a diaper! He frequently calls "Mom-Mom, booots, Mom-Mom, boooots!" He's got a lot of his pop in him!
Having fun listening to a concert

Funnel cake. Need I say more????

Jake and Sam had a great time doing the Euro Bungee!

Naked on the Farm

2009-07-15T22:19:00.000-07:00

Will discovered how much fun the hose can be while visiting his grandparents in Fresno. When we got back to Bakersfield, we went outside to play and I let him have the hose. Oh Boy, did he love it! Very quickly he soaked his clothes, so I stripped him down. Then the fun really began! It's so much fun to spray Jake!

Planting corn

Learning About Airplanes with Pop

2009-07-15T22:12:00.000-07:00

Over the last few months we have discovered that Will REALLY loves airplanes. Just like his Daddy and his Pop! My dad had his own plane until just a couple of years ago. Will was born just a little too late...sigh. At least they can still enjoy looking at airplane books and playing with airplane toys.

Happy Fourth of July

2009-07-05T10:11:00.001-07:00

Firecracker Popscicles are yummy!

Our homemade flag. Made from the handprints and footprints of all the children in our home this week!
Flag cake for dessert

Ally loves her popscicle too!

Uncle Sam wants you to have a Happy Fourth of July!!

A Day at the Races

2009-07-03T19:28:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the horse races on Friday

John explaining to us the intricacies of the betting process Waiting for the ponies to run

Ally being a silly girl!

Rob and Ronan having a great time

Will making more crazy faces!

Dad throws Will into the heavens

Caught in the rain

Ally and Rob got soaked!

So did Jake and Dad!

Jake dancing in the rain!

We made a small profit for the day...not surprisingly it all went to Sam. He knows how to bet!

Fun in Oak Creek

2009-07-01T21:12:00.001-07:00

I am so excited because my dearest friends are visiting from California. Rob, Leigh Ann, Ronan and Ally arrived on Monday and we have been busy ever since! Yesterday we went on a hike in Oak Creek Canyon and then fishing at the trout farm. Here are some pictures of our adventures! Ronan in the window of an old cabin Sammy in the same window

Will didn't really want to walk, he just wanted to play in the dirt and pick up rocks

Ally wasn't sure about this hiking businessWill found a HUGE butterfly and almost caught it. It's just to the right of his shadow in this picture

Sam and Ronan playing in the creek

Will making one of his silly faces!

Daddy and Will taking a week

Ally at our picnic

I think she wanted me to stop taking her picture

Rob, Ronan and Ally fishing at the trout farm.

Sam and Ronan

Ally wasn't too sure about that fish

Will loved it!

So did Jake! He is a born fisherman!

All the boys watching the fish being cleaned

Will was very impressed with the insides of the fish!

Japanese Night

2009-06-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

Last night we had an early birthday celebration for our friend Bre, with homemade Japanese food. John made California rolls and salmon sushi, as well as grilled teriyaki chicken and salmon. Bre had all kinds of great Japanese chopsticks and dishes. It was beautiful and delicious! We followed it up by watching anime (something we had never done before, but really enjoyed!) and eating ice cream sundaes. It was a really fun night for a very special person. Happy Birthday Bre, we love you!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2009-06-28T07:26:00.001-07:00

Ours is growing splendidly! The swiss chard is beautiful and the cilantro and fennel are growing like crazy. We found our first pea pod yesterday too!
Looks like we will have fresh tomatoes soon!

Old as she was, she still missed her daddy sometimes. ~Gloria Naylor

2009-06-21T12:55:00.000-07:00

These are some of my favorite pictures of my dad. I took them last Christmas when we were home in Bakersfield. I think they show his strength and more importantly his gentleness. Happy Father's Day Dad! I love you and I miss you all the time!

The greatest gift I ever had, came from God...I call him Dad

2009-06-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the man behind all of our greatest adventures! Thank you for the love and devotion that you show to us everyday! We love you!

Great News!

2009-06-19T07:52:00.000-07:00

We just returned from the boys six month checkup in Phoenix. For the first time in a VERY long time neither boys' scans showed any changes. The doctor also agreed that we could move forward with starting them on the medication that I told you all about in the past. Hopefully, that will happen within a couple of weeks, and then we can sit back and enjoy the summer!

A Perfect Day

2009-06-13T18:57:00.001-07:00

Today may have been the perfect day. We left the house early and headed down to Sedona with our mountain bikes. We were ready to ride the pathway around Bell Rock. It was absolutely beautiful in Sedona. Usually it is quite hot this time of year, but today it was in the low 70s with a perfect breeze. The sky was an amazing blue, all making it the perfect day for a ride.
Heading down the path

Whoo...that was hard work! Will learns to drink from the camel back.

We biked as far as we could...but not as far as I would have hoped! Then we put the bikes aside and hiked.

Will pooped out!

A bee in the bloom of a cactus

He was sleeping so hard that a bubble of drool formed on his mouth!

After our hike we headed into Sedona to look at the art galleries. We saw an amazing sculptor working on one of his bronzes as well as Native American musicians and hoop dancers. My pictures of this somehow disappeared from the post, and I can't figure out where they went. But take my word for it, it was wonderful! After that we headed back to Flagstaff and went to confession and then Mass. It was a perfectly beautiful and peaceful day. I hope your weekend is going just as well!

Gratitude

2009-06-12T18:37:00.000-07:00

Last week we took some time to slow down; to get outside in this beautiful world and let nature renew our souls. We took a bike ride in the woods and had a picnic in the meadow, where the boys could run and play, until their hearts were content. Sam spent the time picking wildflowers for one lucky mom. And I am so grateful; grateful for all the crazy boys that fill my home with noise; grateful for being pushed outside my comfort zone to do things my boys enjoy, like hiking, riding bikes, finding bugs in the dirt, and learning that I really like them too! I'm grateful for a husband who on a moments notice throws four bikes and a baby carrier onto the back of a car and finds the best trails and picnic spots. I am grateful for these days that slow us down, that make us take notice of how wonderful life really is.

Hawaii Underwater

2009-06-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

Jake and Mom having a great time snorkeling with a sea turtle!

I Know He Needs a Haircut...

2009-06-02T18:43:00.001-07:00

But isn't he just soooo sweet? I'm going to enjoy it a little while longer; he'll be seeing his Pop soon and it will have to be cut before then!

Help Us Settle a Debate

2009-05-26T17:32:00.000-07:00

Who does Will most resemble? Incrediboy or Mr. Heatmeiser? Your opinion is a pressing a matter in this house. Halloween may depend on it!

How Many People Can Fit in a Miata?

2009-05-26T17:16:00.000-07:00

Evidently, six!
Will had a great time taking Sam and our neighbors, the Robinsons, for a ride! I think he was saying, "Settle down! Don't make me pull this car over."

2009-05-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

This weekend we planted a garden. I think we planted a few too many plants for our space, but I am hoping it all works out anyway! If so we should have fresh veggies all summer.
Will was excited about helping

Until...he discovered a worm. At first he was very unsure and even a little afraid of it.

Then his curiosity got the best of him and he let it touch him.

Finally, he decided to carry it around with him, but he never quit saying "EWWWWW"!

Last Day

2009-05-16T09:09:00.001-07:00

Today was our last day. We fly home on Saturday. So we decided that we wanted to end our trip by going back to our favorite spot, Lanakai. A walk on the beach with Dad
A little dance on the beach

All wrapped up and ready to go home

Thursday

2009-05-15T13:37:00.001-07:00

Thurday morning Beth and I went to see the sunrise on Lanakai Beach. Breathtaking!

Next, we headed out to find the beaches where Lost is filmed.

Then we stopped back by the Polynesian Cultural Center and the boys fished in Tahiti.

Sam was the only one to catch a fish and this one was considered HUGE!

Then they headed over to the village of Hawaii for ukelele lessons

Hanauma Bay

2009-05-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

We have no pictures of us today because all the excitement happened underwater. John, Beth, Jake and I had a great time snorkeling at this nature preserve. We did have an underwater camera, but I have to get those pictures developed. We saw every kind of tropical fish you could imagine. From enormous fish to tiny fish. From parrot fish to puffer fish and even the Hawaii state fish the Humu humu nuku nuku apua`a. Say that three times fast! But the best part was the sea turtles. Jake, Beth and I all snorkeled with sea turtles. It was amazing to watch them and swim along side them. This was the most peaceful experience I have ever had, just swimming through the water marveling at the beauty of the underwater world. I can't wait to get back!

Sam and Will stayed on shore. Sam says he is more of a land guy. He used the fish id card and was able to walk through the water and spot many of them. He was totally satisfied.

Tuesday's Adventures: Pearl Harbor and Pali Lookout

2009-05-14T23:12:00.000-07:00

The Arizona Memorial
The Arizona is still leaking oil after 67 years. They are know as black tears.

It was an emotional day for everyone

Pali Lookout

It's a little windy there!

The Polynesian Cultural Center

2009-05-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

A Hawaiian bath baby
After bathtime we headed to the North Shore for some snorkeling, which was great and then we went to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Everyone had a great time there!
How can this hat look so...well, dorky on one person?

And soooo cute on another?

Learning the Ukelele

In the village of Tonga the John and the boys learned to throw spears. They were all surprisingly good!

Sam won a prize for Grandma

Jake being crowned prince of Tonga

So many exciting things to see! Even the monkey is impressed! We hope to go back tomorrow!

Mother's Day

2009-05-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

More Lanakai Beach

2009-05-10T17:51:00.001-07:00

I know, I've posted a lot of pictures from this beach. But really, can you blame me? I think I could be content if there was the only place we could go on Oahu.

An Adventure to the North Shore

2009-05-10T17:06:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon we went to Turtle Beach. There were turtles everywhere, on the shore and in the water! Will was very impressed and wanted to ride one. He cried and cried when the turtle he became attached to turned and swam back into the ocean.

Look closely in the water at the wave and you will see a sea turtle riding the wave.

Jake found a sand crab

This place is famous for shaved ice. It was invented here on Oahu. You can get it with ice cream and sweet beans on the bottom--it's surprisingly good!

Will really loved the shaved ice

But it's soooo cold!

ooooohhhhh!

Another Day at Lanikai Beach

2009-05-09T16:09:00.000-07:00

We loved Lanikai Beach so much yesterday that Jake, Sam, Beth and I decided to go back this morning. It was even more amazing today. Like a giant saltwater swimming pool! More like a heated pool since the water is so warm. We are having a hard time pulling ourselves away from this perfect beach, but I think we are going to go explore the North Shore today.

Beth found a great reading spot!

Hawaii Day One

2009-05-09T11:49:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a fabulous day! We played on a breath taking beach, took a walk to a spitting cave where we also saw a sea turtle swimming and John and the boys saw sharks. We also found some tide pools which everyone enjoyed. We are having a great time!
Lanikai Beach
Tide pools at Sandy Beach

A sea turtle off the cliffs at the spitting cave

Life is good!

Sam's Confirmation and First Holy Communion

2009-05-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Sam received the sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Communion. It was a lovely day and we were so proud of Sam. He worked very hard to prepare for these sacraments. He put together a wonderful scrapbook of his studies so he could remember everything he learned. It is something he will treasure forever. Just like John and I will forever treasure the memory of watching him receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the body of Christ for the first time. Neither of us could keep a dry eye. After he was confirmed and sealed with the Holy Chrism, I gave him a kiss. The smell of the Chrism lingered, and throughout the day I was reminded that just as the smell of the Chrism Sam received spread to me, we do indeed spread the mercy and grace of God to one another. It will be a privilege for John and I to watch Sam answer the Lord's call and spread the fragrance of Christ wherever he goes.

Hawaii

2009-05-03T17:46:00.001-07:00

We are all very excited around our house because on Wednesday we leave for a vacation in Hawaii! We are exchanging homes with a lovely couple in Kailua, Oahu for ten days. When we decided to go on this trip we put aside our early American History studies for a while so we could learn all about Hawaii. The boys have been enjoying their studies of Polynesian culture and they especially liked making a salt dough map of the Hawaiian Islands. Even Will wanted in on the act. Stay tuned later this week for more pictures from Hawaii!

Just a Swingin'

2009-05-03T17:31:00.001-07:00

John got Will a swing last week and boy does he LOVE it! He calls it his whee. He will stare out the window and look down at the playset and yell, "WHEEE!" In fact, all of the boys have a great time swinging and playing together!
Will especially likes for Jake to do underdog with him!

Just don't try and take him out of the swing. He throws quite the fit! I think he would swing all day if we let him!

Easter in Bakersfield

2009-04-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

Decorating eggs on Holy Saturday
Sam and Alex

"I get to make a mess and Mom thinks it's great!"

Ronan is very serious about his creation

The world's cutest Easter bunny!

Jake's makeshift Easter basket. I guess he is getting too old for his regular basket...sigh

Ally says, "I don't think he knows how to drive this tractor"

Easter candy is mmmmm good!

Sam found the prize egg

How many eggs do I have?

All the kids on the tractor

The gang is ready for a ride

Let's go!

Pop and Ronan. Ronan always loves to help drive those horses!

Ally, the girl Will will one day marry, if he know what is good for him!

my sisters, Kim and Cheryle

Sam gets kisses from his aunties

Talking with Aunt Kim

Erin in her beautiful Easter dress

Our friend, Taylor

My nieces, Amanda and Anna

Anna and Taylor

Our friends, Ryan and Michele

Aaron's Baptism

2009-04-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

These are pictures of my great nephew, Aaron's, baptism. He was supposed to be baptized on April 19th but before that could happen, he was diagnosed with congenital glaucoma. My niece Amanda found out that he would need emergency surgery on his eyes on April 6th, so his baptism was moved up! It was all very last minute, but it turned out beautifully.

Aaron was baptized with water from Lourdes and his eyes were given a special annoninting.

He didn't even cry a bit!

Bakersfield's newest Catholic

Aaron and his godmother, Anna

Aaron and his other godmother, Gracie

Pop and Aaron

Daddy and Aaron

Mommy and Aaron

I am happy to say that Aaron's eyes have improved dramatically since his surgery. He looks amazing and you can tell he can see much better.

Mass in Our Home

2009-03-19T13:47:00.001-07:00

Our family had a really wonderful experience last night. Our priest came to our home to celebrate mass with our family and a few friends. It was such an intimate way to experience the mass and I think most of us found it difficult not to tear up at the beauty of it all. Beth and Bre came over Monday night to help us prepare the Eucharistic bread
Sam stirs up the dough which can only be made of flour and pure spring water
We were also able to provide the Eucharistic wine, so of course we used MadoroM, which has already proven miraculous for our family

We moved our furniture and gathered around our priest for mass

"For where two or three have gathered together in my name, I am there in their midst"

Matthew 18: 20

The intention for this mass was for our dear friend Dolores Rowley, who lost her life to cancer last week. Her life was an inspiration and her conversion to Catholicism was a series of miracles that left us all inspired. Those who love her rest assured that through her baptism she was sanctified and she watches over us all in heaven. John and I know that not only did we experience the presence of Christ in our living room Wednesday; but that all the choirs of heaven were present to sing the praise of Dolores' life. We will all miss her wit and wisdom dearly; but it is a comfort to know that one day we will meet her in paradise.

As a mother, I feel that I can say with confidence that she felt much deserved pride in the life of her son, Ryan. Ryan is John's greatest friend, and he holds a rather large piece of my heart as well. I know that I constantly think that the way my life should be judged is by what kind of men my children grow to be. I pray that they will be devout men, as well as good husbands and fathers. Dolores accomplished this with Ryan without the help of the Church, and for that I am in awe! I know that if my sons grow up to be half the man that my friend, Ryan, is I will have done my job very, very well. And one cannot ignore the fact that she and I shared a total devotion to Ryan and Michele's daughter, Erin. You have probably seen her picture on my blog before, she is the AMAZING little girl who John and I get to call goddaughter. What a blessing! And while Dolores' presence will be greatly missed; it is good to know that I have a new Saint in heaven to intercede on my behalf-- in the raising of GOOD men.

"Her children rise up and call her Blessed; her husband also saying; many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all." Proverbs 31: 28-29

St. Patrick's Day Fun

2009-03-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

A note and footprints left by a tricky leprachaun

Will found the leprechaun's gold!
What did that tricky leprechaun do to my milk?

Breakfast is green milk and shamrock toast

All dressed up and ready for school!

Can You Believe this Baby!!!

2009-03-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

John was outside barbecuing and Will wanted a better view. He will climb anything!

Pretzels for Lent

2009-03-13T11:10:00.001-07:00

Today is Friday of the second week in Lent. We continued our new tradition of making pretzels this morning. Pretzels are traditionally made by Catholics during Lent because in ancient times a very strict fast of only bread and water was observed. The pretzels twisted shape was made to reflect arms crossed in prayer. Even today, in many places in Europe, pretzels are only sold between Ash Wedensday and Good Friday, not at every mall and big box store like here in America! I decided this would be a meaningful new tradition for our family's Lenten journey and it really has been nice. And delicious! I thought it would be a good meat free meal for the required Friday abstinence and also for adults who are fasting they make an easy light meal. The kids, of course, are not required to fast, which meant that all 12 pretzels were gone in about 15 minutes!

I have tried a couple of diferent recipes so far and this one is by far the best. So if you are interested here is the link: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Buttery-Soft-Pretzels/Detail.aspx

I hope they enrich your lenten experience and if you are not observing Lent then I hope you find them as tasty as we do!

Wishing it was Spring

2009-03-11T18:51:00.001-07:00

Today was a beautiful day. It gave us hope that Spring is around the corner; but alas, tomorrows forecast calls for rain and possibly snow. John took Will out for a little bike ride to feel the warmth of the sun. Hopefully Spring will be upon us soon!

A Trip to the Northern Arizona Museum

2009-03-11T18:25:00.001-07:00

Will came home from Bakersfield SERIOUSLY obsessed with dinosaurs. It all started because he saw a full size dino made out of scrap metal in Bakersfield. He cried every time we passed it because he wanted to get out of the car. If someone mentioned dinosaurs to him he ran for the door because he knew we had to go in the car to get to it! When we got home we decided to take him to the Flagstaff museum which has a couple of dinosaur skeletons. He was very impressed and super excited! It is funny to me that a seventeen month old can be interested in bones, but I am not a boy, so what do I know? We were in luck because they had a few hands on displays as well and Jake and Sam got to look at ancient indian hunting tools and grind corn.

Our Trip to Bakersfield

2009-03-08T15:34:00.000-07:00

The worlds sweetest leprechaun, my great nephew, Aaron
Aaron and Aunt Cheryle

The barn and horses after a big rain

Gracie and Will with a perfect pretzel she made for Lent. That twisting is harder than it looks!

Amanda making lenten pretzels

This is too funny, Sam went outside to play the accordian and all of the cattle came running. They stayed right next to him the entire time he played!

Gracie, Jake and Will listening to Joe play his guitar in the back of his truck

Friends forever--Sam and his cousin, Alex

Will pretty much wanted to wear his Pop's cowboy hat ALL of the time, even while watching TV!

My nephew, Phillip

Will and my niece Amanda

The barn and horses as the sun rises on a foggy Bakersfield morning

We have just returned from two weeks back home in Bakersfield. The main purpose of our trip was to attend the Madorom Wine Release. Friends in Napa own a winery which produces an amazing wine called Madorom and they bring their current vintage to Bakersfield for a release party and an auction which benefits Angioma Alliance and another great charity, The Small Miracles Foundation. Each year I give a speech, but this year I was beyond nervous because with the exciting developments happening in the research of cavernous angiomas it is more important than ever that Angioma Alliance remain in good financial standing. However, given the current state of the economy, I wasn't sure that we would be able to raise as much as we did last year. Needless to say, I felt a lot of anxiety about this event, as it is the largest single fundraiser for Angioma Alliance and the grants that we normally secure by this time each year are unavailable. So I was really hoping that we would come close to the $76,000 we raised last year. But God is bigger than my hopes! I believe the final total will come in at $135,00!!! Plus we raised even more in donations from family and friends in Bakersfield. The best was from my niece Gracie who surprised me with a birthday card that had $1,335 in donations to Angioma Alliance. She had been saving her money and doing extra jobs, but for her birthday she asked only for donations to Angioma Alliance instead of presents! Isn't that the best birthday present you have ever heard of??? She is one amazing girl--I am so lucky to call her my niece!